bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Viscoelasticity of aspen wood strands during hot pressing: Experimentation and modeling
Authors: Zhou Cheng , Dai Chunping , Smith Gregory D.
Published: September 2010

To improve the fundamental understanding of wood composite consolidation, the viscoelastic behavior of aspen wood strands is experimentally investigated for a range of temperatures (20–200°C) and moisture contents (0–15%). The results show that the strand stress relaxation modulus and time follows a linear relationship in a log-log plot. The strand stress relaxation rate is highly dependent on the imposed strain levels and the environmental conditions. A model for predicting the stress relaxation of wood strands is developed and compared with the experimental results. It will be useful to further predict the stress relaxation response of strand-based wood composite mats during hot pressing.
The Role of Calcium/Calmodulin-Activated Calcineurin in Rapid and Slow Endocytosis at Central Synapses
Authors: Sun Tao , Wu Xin-Sheng , Xu Jianhua , McNeil Benjamin D. , Pang Zhiping P. , Yang Wanjun , Bai Li , Qadri Syed , Molkentin Jeffery D. , Yue David T. , Wu Ling-Gang
Published: September 2010

Although the calcium/calmodulin-activated phosphatase calcineurin may dephosphorylate many endocytic proteins, it is not considered a key molecule in mediating the major forms of endocytosis at synapses—slow, clathrin-dependent and the rapid, clathrin-independent endocytosis. Here we studied the role of calcineurin in endocytosis by reducing calcium influx, inhibiting calmodulin with pharmacological blockers and knockdown of calmodulin, and by inhibiting calcineurin with pharmacological blockers and knock-out of calcineurin. These manipulations significantly inhibited both rapid and slow endocytosis at the large calyx-type synapse in 7- to 10-d-old rats and mice, and slow, clathrin-dependent endocytosis at the conventional cultured hippocampal synapse of rats and mice. These results suggest that calcium influx during nerve firing activates calcium/calmodulin-dependent calcineurin, which controls the speed of both rapid and slow endocytosis at synapses by dephosphorylating endocytic proteins. The calcium/calmodulin/calcineurin signaling pathway may underlie regulation of endocytosis by nerve activity and calcium as reported at many synapses over the last several decades.
P/Q and N Channels Control Baseline and Spike-Triggered Calcium Levels in Neocortical Axons and Synaptic Boutons
Authors: Yu Yuguo , Maureira Carlos , Liu Xiuxin , McCormick David
Published: September 2010

Cortical axons contain a diverse range of voltage-activated ion channels, including Ca2+currents. Interestingly, Ca2+channels are not only located at presynaptic terminals, but also in the axon initial segment (AIS), suggesting a potentially important role in the regulation of action potential generation and neuronal excitability. Here, using two-photon microscopy and whole-cell patch-clamp recording, we examined the properties and role of calcium channels located in the AIS and presynaptic terminals of ferret layer 5 prefrontal cortical pyramidal cellsin vitro. Subthreshold depolarization of the soma resulted in an increase in baseline and spike-triggered calcium concentration in both the AIS and nearby synaptic terminals. The increase in baseline calcium concentration rose with depolarization and fell with hyperpolarization with a time constant of approximately 1 s and was blocked by removal of Ca2+from the bathing medium. The increases in calcium concentration at the AIS evoked by subthreshold or suprathreshold depolarization of the soma were blocked by the P/Q-channel antagonist ω-agatoxin IVA or the N-channel antagonist ω-conotoxin GVIA or both. The presence of these channels in the AIS pyramidal cells was confirmed with immunochemistry. Block of these channels slowed axonal action potential repolarization, apparently from reduction of the activation of a Ca2+-activated K+current, and increased neuronal excitability. These results demonstrate novel mechanisms by which calcium currents may control the electrophysiological properties of axonal spike generation and neurotransmitter release in the neocortex.
China's Roads to Influence
Authors: Holslag Jonathan
Published: September 2010

This paper argues that although the People's Republic of China is promoting crossborder networks as a new regional common good, it is driven by both the fear of losing influence to other powers and the desire to create an open economic order in pursuit of Chinese interests. As in most forms of communication, it also appears in this case that the strongest player is best positioned to use these channels to its own advantage.
Surgical oncology of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC)
Authors: Kupcsulik Péter
Published: September 2010

A hepatocellularis carcinoma (HCC) gyakorisága világszerte növekszik. Hazánkban évente körülbelül 600 új esettel lehetne számolni, de a rendelkezésre álló adatok szerint ennél sokkal kevesebb jut a hepatológiai gondozás rendszerébe. A sorafenib megjelenése és az ablatív kezelések terjedése mellett a legjobb eredmények a sebészi módszerektől várhatók. Az orthotopicus májátültetés (OTLX) szelektált korai HCC-esetekben igen bíztató eredményeket ígér ugyan, de a hazai transzplantációs kapacitás és az észlelt HCC-esetek stádiuma kizárja, hogy az OTLX legyen az egyedüli megoldás. A sebészi reszekciót a funkcionális májtérfogat határozza meg. A ballebeny-reszekciót a betegek többnyire jól tűrik. A jobb lebeny tumorai a portafőtörzs okklúziója után – megfelelő bal oldali regeneráció esetén – cirrhoticus májban is reszekálhatók. Az intraoperatív prekondicionálás jelentősen csökkenteni képes az ischaemiás-reperfúziós károsodást jelző faktorok szérumszintjét és a műtéti kockázatot. A Semmelweis Egyetem I. Sebészeti Klinikáján 1996–2009 között operált 2167 májtumor között 254 HCC fordult elő. Kétszáztizenegy esetben történt radikális műtét, ez 82,7%-os reszekciós rátának felel meg. Világszerte elterjedőben van a laparoszkópos májreszekció, amely kisebb műtéti megterhelést jelent, mint a nyitott műtét, ezért cirrhoticus máj esetében a javallat fokozottan érvényes. Orv. Hetil., 2010, 37, 1483–1487.
Observational approaches in ecology open new ground in a changing world
Authors: Sagarin Raphael , Pauchard Aníbal
Published: September 2010

Ecology has entered into a dynamic period, driven by both the urgency of large‐scale ecological problems and startling new ecological findings that are being shared broadly beyond the scientific community. Both of these factors are well represented by observational approaches to ecology, which are re‐emerging after a long period of deference to manipulative experimental approaches. These approaches examine ecological patterns and processes through data gathered in situations where nature has not been purposefully manipulated. The use of unmanipulated observational data reflects on the work of early naturalists, but is greatly enhanced by technological advances in remote sensing, microscopy, genetics, animal‐borne sensors, and computing. Once dismissed as merely “exploratory”, strictly observational approaches to ecology have demonstrated capability in testing hypotheses by correlating variables, comparing observed patterns to output from existing models, exploiting natural experiments, and simulating experiments within large datasets. These approaches can be used in a stand‐alone fashion, but are strengthened when reconciled with experimental manipulations to isolate fine‐scale ecological mechanisms.
Vitamin D Status and Periodontal Disease Among Pregnant Women
Authors: Boggess Kim A. , Espinola Janice A. , Moss Kevin , Beck Jim , Offenbacher Steven , Camargo Carlos A.
Published: September 2010

Background:Maternal periodontal disease is found in ≤40% of pregnant women and is associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes. Vitamin D deficiency may play a role in periodontal disease and tooth loss, and insufficient vitamin D status is common among pregnant women. The objective of this study is to examine the relationship between maternal vitamin D status and periodontal disease.

Methods:A case‐control study was conducted. Cases were defined as pregnant women with clinical moderate to severe periodontal disease; controls were pregnant women who were periodontally healthy. Maternal data were chart abstracted and serum was collected between 14 and 26 weeks of gestation. Serum 25‐hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D) levels were measured using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. Median serum 25(OH)D levels and prevalence of vitamin D insufficiency (defined as <75 nmol/l) were compared between cases and controls. The odds ratio and 95% confidence interval for moderate to severe periodontal disease among women with vitamin D insufficiency was calculated using multivariable logistic regression, adjusting for maternal race, season of blood draw, and other potential confounders.

Results:A total of 117 cases were compared to 118 controls. Cases had lower median 25(OH)D levels than controls (59 versus 100 nmol/l;P<0.001) and were more likely to have vitamin D insufficiency (65% versus 29%;P<0.001). The adjusted odds ratio (95% confidence interval) for moderate to severe periodontal disease among women with vitamin D insufficiency was 2.1 (0.99 to 4.5).

Conclusions:Vitamin D insufficiency (serum 25[OH]D <75 nmol/l) is associated with maternal periodontal disease during pregnancy. Vitamin D supplementation represents a potential therapeutic strategy to improve maternal oral health.
Serum Lipoprotein‐Associated Phospholipase A2 and C‐Reactive Protein Levels in Association With Periodontal Disease and Hyperlipidemia
Authors: Fentoğlu Özlem , Köroğlu Banu Kale , Kara Yusuf , Doğan Burak , Yılmaz Gülin , Sütçü Recep , Ay Zuhal Yetkin , Tonguç Mine Öztürk , Orhan Hikmet , Tamer M. Numan , Kırzıoğlu F. Yeşim
Published: September 2010

Background: The aim of this study is to evaluate the levels of serum lipoprotein‐associated phospholipase A2 (Lp‐PLA2) and high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (hsCRP) in association with periodontal disease and hyperlipidemia.

Methods: A total of 123 subjects with hyperlipidemia and 68 systemically healthy controls were included in the study. Subjects with hyperlipidemia were divided into two groups: the suggested‐diet (HD) and prescribed‐statin (HS) groups and then into three subgroups: the healthy (HDh and HSh), gingivitis (HDg and HSg), and periodontitis (HDp and HSp) groups. Periodontal parameters were recorded and included the plaque index, gingival index (GI), probing depth (PD), clinical attachment level (CAL), and percentage of sites with bleeding on probing (BOP). Fasting venous blood samples were obtained, and serum lipid, Lp‐PLA2, and hsCRP levels were evaluated.

Results: Median values for the GI, PD, BOP(%), and CAL in the HSg group were statistically significantly higher than those in the HDg and systemically healthy with gingivitis (Cg) groups. The HSp group had higher percentages of BOP compared to those of the chronic periodontitis and HDp groups. The HDg group had higher serum Lp‐PLA2 and hsCRP levels compared to those of the Cg and HSg groups. The ratio of total cholesterol to high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (TC/HDL) was significantly associated with the GI, PD, and BOP(%) in both groups with hyperlipidemia. Serum Lp‐PLA2 and hsCRP levels were significantly correlated with TC/HDL, the GI, PD, and BOP(%) in the HD group.

Conclusions: Serum Lp‐PLA2 and hsCRP levels may play an important role in the association between periodontal disease and hyperlipidemia, and the control of these mediators may affect the inflammatory control of patients with hyperlipidemia and periodontal disease.
The influence of acoustic field and frequency on hydrodynamics of group B particles
Authors: Langde A.M. , Sonolikar R.L.
Published: September 2010

Sound Assisted Fluidized Bed (SAFB) of group B particles (180?m glass bead)
has been studied in a 46mm I.D. column with aspect ratios of 1.4 and 2.9. A
loudspeaker mounted on the top of the bed was supplied by a function
generator with square wave to generate the sound as the source of vibration
of the fluidized bed. The sound pressure level (referred to 20?pa) was varied
from 102 to 140dB and frequencies from 70Hz to 170Hz were applied. The
effects of sound pressure level, sound frequency and particle loading on the
properties of SAFB were investigated. The experimental result showed that the
minimum fluidization velocity decreased with the increase in sound pressure
level, also minimum fluidization velocity was varied with variation of
frequencies. At resonance frequency minimum fluidization velocity was found
to be minimum. The bed height did not show an appreciable increase in
presence of high acoustic field and at resonant frequency. Minimum
fluidization velocity verses frequency curve in presence of sound intensity
varied with variation of bed weight.
Brief note on heat flow with arbitrary heating rates in a hollow cylinder
Authors: Deshmukh K.C. , Warbhe S.D. , Kulkarni V.S.
Published: September 2010

In this paper the temperature distribution is determined through a hollow
cylinder under an arbitrary time dependent heat flux at the outer surface and
zero heat flux at the internal boundary due to internal heat generation
within it. To develop the analysis of the temperature field, we introduce the
method of integral transform. The results are obtained in a series form
in-terms of Bessel?s functions.
In vitro evaluation of a low-modulus mesh canine prosthetic hip stem
Authors: Marcellin-Little Denis J. , Cansizoglu Omer , Harrysson Ola L. A. , Roe Simon C.
Published: September 2010

Objective—To compare an electron beam melting-processed (EBMP) low-modulus titanium alloy mesh stem with a commercial cobalt-chromium (CC) stem in a canine cadaver model.

Sample Population—9 pairs of cadaver femora.

Procedures—EBMP stems of 3 sizes were placed in randomly chosen sides of femora (left or right) and CC stems in opposite sides. Stem impaction distances were recorded. Five strain gauges were attached to the femoral surface to record transverse tensile (hoop) strains in the femur during axial loading. Constructs were axially loaded 4 times to 800 N and 4 times to 1,600 N in a materials testing machine. Axial stiffness of constructs and bone surface strains were compared between EBMP and CC constructs.

Results—Stems were impacted without creating femoral fissures or fractures. Stem impaction distances were larger for EBMP stems than for CC stems. Mean axial stiffness of EBMP constructs was lower than mean axial stiffness of CC constructs. Subsidence did not differ between groups. Bone strains varied among strain gauge positions and were largest at the distal aspect of the stems. At a load of 1,600 N, bones strains were higher in CC constructs than in EBMP constructs for 2 of 4 medial strain gauges.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—EBMP stems were successfully impacted and stable and led to a focal decrease in bone strain; this may represent an acceptable option for conventional or custom joint replacement. (Am J Vet Res 2010;71:1089–1095)

Although cemented hip stems have been used successfully as part of total hip replacements in humans, their success rate has been reportedly lower in younger patients than in older patients.1 The longterm success of hip stems is affected by aseptic implant loosening, implant wear, and stress-mediated bone resorption (stress shielding).2 Cementless hip stems were originally developed in part because polymethylmethacrylate bone cement was considered to be a contributing factor to aseptic loosening of cemented hip stems.3 A portion of a cementless stem is textured or coated with porous surfaces for bone ongrowth and ingrowth.4,5 Stem stability relies on initial press fit and long-term bone ingrowth into the porous portions of the stems. Cementless stems are large and have a high
Evaluation of the relationship between Orthopedic Foundation for Animals' hip joint scores and PennHIP distraction index values in dogs
Authors: Powers Michelle Y. , Karbe Georga T. , Gregor Thomas P. , McKelvie Pamela , Culp William T. N. , Fordyce Hilary H. , Smith Gail K.
Published: September 2010

Objective—To compare 2 screening methods for detecting evidence of hip dysplasia (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals [OFA] and PennHIP) in dogs.

Design—Diagnostic test evaluation study.

Animals—439 dogs ≥ 24 months of age that received routine hip joint screening from June 1987 through July 2008.

Procedures—Dogs were sedated, and PennHIP radiography was performed (hip joint– extended [HE], compression, and distraction radiographic views). The HE radiographic view was submitted for OFA evaluation. A copy of the HE radiographic view plus the compression and distraction radiographic views were submitted for routine PennHIP evaluation, including quantification of hip joint laxity via the distraction index (DI).

Results—14% (60/439) of dogs had hip joints scored as excellent by OFA standards; however, 52% (31/60) of those had a DI ≥ 0.30 (range, 0.14 to 0.61). Eighty-two percent of (183/223) dogs with OFA-rated good hip joints had a DI ≥ 0.30 (range, 0.10 to 0.77), and 94% (79/84) of dogs with OFA-rated fair hip joints had a DI ≥ 0.30 (range, 0.14 to 0.77). Of all dogs with fair to excellent hip joints by OFA standards, 80% (293/367) had a DI ≥ 0.30. All dogs with OFA-rated borderline hip joints or mild, moderate, or severe hip dysplasia had a DI ≥ 0.30 (range, 0.30 to 0.83).

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance—Dogs judged as phenotypically normal by the OFA harbored clinically important passive hip joint laxity as determined via distraction radiography. Results suggested that OFA scoring of HE radiographs underestimated susceptibility to osteoarthritis in dogs, which may impede progress in reducing or eliminating hip dysplasia through breeding.
Regarding the Importance of the Mileage Distribution for Reliability Prognoses in Automotive Industry
Authors: Althaus Dirk , Braasch Andreas , Schlummer Marco , Meyna Arno
Published: September 2010

Regarding the Importance of the Mileage Distribution for Reliability Prognoses in Automotive Industry

In automotive industry there are few information about the load of a car in use. Therefore, the available data needs to be used and looked at carefully. Data that is nearly always available is the time in field, given by the date of registration and the date when failure occurred, and the driving distance. The driving distance can be used to describe the load of a car because in most cases the operating time is not known. This data can be used to calculate the mileage distribution of a car, which contains much additional information for safety and reliability analysis. Furthermore, it is useful to adopt testing routines and lifetime distances that are written down in specifications.
Reliability and Safety of Complex Technical Systems an Overall Approach
Authors: Kołowrocki Krzysztof , Soszyńska Joanna
Published: September 2010

Reliability and Safety of Complex Technical Systems an Overall Approach

The paper is concerned with the identification, evaluation, prediction and optimization of reliability, availability and safety of technical systems related to their operation processes. The main emphasis is on multi-state systems composed of ageing components and changing during their operation their structures and their components reliability and safety characteristics. The convenient tools suggested for analyzing these complex technical systems are semi-markov modeling of the systems' operation processes and multistate approach to the systems' reliability modeling. The paper describes current theoretical results on the proposed approach to reliability and safety analysis of multi-state systems with ageing components in their operation processes and the possibility of their practical applications to the reliability, safety analysis and optimization of the complex technical port and maritime transportation systems.
Prediction of IC Engine Power System Durability with the Use of Ring Pack Model
Authors: Koszałka Grzegorz , Niewczas Andrzej
Published: September 2010

Prediction of IC Engine Power System Durability with the Use of Ring Pack Model

The paper presents the new method of engine life prediction, which bases on the results of wear measurements taken on an investigated engine and simulations carried out with the use of the analytical model of ring pack of the engine. In the contrary to traditional methods the proposed method does not require the prior knowledge of the limit wear value, which is essential for the prediction, however its reliable establishing for new engines is difficult. In the presented method its value is determined with the use of the ring pack model. The example of durability calculation for an automotive diesel engine is also presented.
Marketing Muslim Lifestyle
Authors: Lewis Reina
Published: September 2010

Recently developed to serve the consumption needs of an emergent Islamic bourgeoisie, English-language Muslim lifestyle media depart from previous community media by including fashion as an integral part of the genre. Creating fashion editorial brings lifestyle publications up against internal debates about the representation of the female body and concepts of modesty. Central to this is the problem of what Muslim looks like, or what looks Muslim. The challenges faced by Muslim style intermediaries in staging a dressed body recognizable to readers as Muslim parallel those faced by the new queer lifestyle media established a decade previously. This paper draws on interviews with Muslim lifestyle journalists to explore how they negotiate internal community debates about female modesty while dealing externally with the mainstream fashion industry. These magazines strive to produce content that meets the needs of modesty and fashion in a context where Muslim women’s dress is accorded hypervisibility by majoritarian cultures. The study raises questions about the relationship between marketability, fashion, and piety in the ongoing development of faith-based consumer cultures, evaluated in relation to critiques of neoliberalism’s fostering of consumer subjects.
Gossip Girls: Lady Teazle, Nora Helmer, and Invisible-Hand Drama
Authors: Roach Joseph
Published: September 2010

Sheridan and Ibsen look less odd together as a couple when The School for Scandal (1777) and A Doll House (1879) are read as dramatizations of the social consequences of two circulatory systems that accelerate as they intersect in modern life – information and money. Regulated by Adam Smith's “invisible hand,” these negotiable currencies define the choices open to the blackmailed heroines of each play, producing situations that reappear in many subsequent representations of bourgeois domesticity, including but not ending with I Love Lucy (1951–57). As the historical emergence of the word “credit” implies, the period conventionally assigned to modern drama needs to be revised to accommodate the overwhelming fact that money, so often the subject of gossip, also behaves like gossip, changing hands in the form of fictional markers of value in which modern subjects must agree to believe in order to prosper.
I was a Teenaged Fabulist: The dark play of Adolescent Sexuality in U.S. Drama
Authors: Herrera Brian Eugenio
Published: September 2010

The breakout hit of the 2007 Humana Festival, Carlos Murillo's dark play or stories for boys received wide notice for its provocative theatricalization of the “true” story of “one teenager's near-fatal internet attraction.” In subsequent professional productions in major U.S. cities including Los Angeles, Atlanta, Philadelphia, and Salt Lake City (as well as scores of university productions nationwide), Murillo's dark play has been routinely promoted as a tale of contemporary teen life, depicting dangers and deceptions peculiar to the Internet age. In this article, I argue that the significance of Murillo's dark play derives less from its contemporaneity than from its clarifying evocation of the longer history of staging sexually precocious adolescent characters within U.S. middlebrow drama since the early decades of the twentieth century. As I trace how such intimate dramas of gossip, rumour, and innuendo evoke the “dangerous games” played by adolescent characters in mid-century works by Lillian Hellman, Arthur Miller, and Robert Anderson, this article explicates how the “teen fabulist,” the kid who makes stuff up about herself or himself and others, emerges as a privileged device through which U.S. dramatists have sought to stage otherwise unstageable uncertainties about morality, hypocrisy and societal norms configuring “truth.”
TV Queen: Lending an Ear to Charles Pierce
Authors: Villarejo Amy
Published: September 2010

This essay examines how a minor television character actor from 1970s sitcoms generates webs of textual reference regarding queer life. Relying upon Charles Pierce's archives, the essay argues that gossip can be a helpful rubric through which to understand those practices of impersonation, staging, and camp that define Pierce's performances.
Predictors of long-term outcome in an elderly group after laminectomy for lumbar stenosis
Authors: Bouras Triantafyllos , Stranjalis George , Loufardaki Maria , Sourtzis Ilias , Stavrinou Lampis C. , Sakas Damianos E.
Published: September 2010

Object

This is a retrospective long-term outcome study of results after laminectomy for lumbar spinal stenosis in an elderly group of patients. The study was designed to evaluate possible demographic, comorbidity, and clinical prognosticators for pain reduction and functional improvement in this population. Because the assessment of functional outcome in the elderly is complicated by several specific factors, the use of outcome measurement parameters should be revised and refined. Moreover, despite numerous relevant studies, the results of various techniques remain equivocal, particularly among the elderly, which renders the implementation of focused studies necessary. New data could be used to refine patient selection and choice of technique to improve prognosis.

Methods

During a 5-year period, lumbar laminectomies were performed in 182 elderly patients. Of these 182, 125 patients (68.8%) were followed up for a mean period of 60.8 months. The outcome was assessed by means of pain visual analog scale (VAS) pain score, Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), and patient satisfaction questionnaire, and results were correlated to demographic (age, sex), comorbidity (Charlson Comorbidity Index, diabetes, depression, and history of lumbar spine surgery), and clinical (main preoperative complaint, preoperative VAS score, and ODI) factors.

Results

In terms of the VAS score, 106 patients (84.8%) exhibited improvement at follow-up. The corresponding ODI improvement rate was 69.6% (87 patients). The mean VAS and ODI differences were 5.1 and 29.1, respectively. One hundred two patients (81.6%) were satisfied with the results of the operation. Univariate analysis for possible prognostic factors revealed the significant influence of low-back pain on VAS score (p = 0.024) and ODI (p < 0.001) not improving, while the ODI was also affected by sex (females had a poorer outcome [p = 0.019]). In contrast, patient satisfaction was not related to any of the preoperative parameters recorded; nevertheless, it was strongly related to all functional measurements on follow-up.

Conclusions

Considering the methodological issues of such studies, particularly in elderly patients, the authors conclude that the ODI is more sensitive than the VAS score in assessing prognostic value and that patient satisfaction is difficult to prognosticate, underscoring the particularities that this population presents regarding functionality assessment. Considering the prognostic value of preoperative factors, a negative influence of low-back pain and female sex is reported.
Laser-guided lumbar medial branch kryorhizotomy
Authors: Andres Robert H. , Graupner Thilo , Bärlocher Christian B. , Augsburger Arthur , Fandino Javier
Published: September 2010

The authors describe a modification of the medial branch kryorhizotomy technique for the treatment of lumbar facet joint syndrome using a fluoroscopy-based laser-guided method. A total of 32 patients suffering from lumbar facet joint syndrome confirmed by positive medial nerve block underwent conventional or laser-guided kryorhizotomy. The procedural time (20.6 ± 1.0 vs 16.3 ± 0.9 minutes, p < 0.01), fluoroscopy time (54.1 ± 3.5 vs 28.2 ± 2.4 seconds, p < 0.01), radiation dose (407.5 ± 32.0 vs 224.1 ± 20.3 cGy/cm2, p < 0.01), and patient discomfort during the procedure (7.1 ± 0.4 vs 5.2 ± 0.4 on the visual analog scale, p < 0.01) were significantly reduced in the laser-guided group. There was a tendency for a better positioning accuracy when the laser guidance method was used (3.0 ± 0.3 vs 2.2 ± 0.3 mm of deviation from the target points, p > 0.05). No difference in the outcome was observed between the 2 groups of patients (visual analog scale score 3.5 ± 0.2 vs 3.3 ± 0.3, p > 0.05). This improved minimally invasive surgical technique offers advantages to conventional fluoroscopy-based kryorhizotomy.
Cerebral cavernous malformations as a disease of vascular permeability: from bench to bedside with caution
Authors: Yadla Sanjay , Jabbour Pascal M. , Shenkar Robert , Shi Changbin , Campbell Peter G. , Awad Issam A.
Published: September 2010

Tremendous insight into the molecular and genetic pathogenesis of cerebral cavernous malformations (CCMs) has been gained over the past 2 decades. This includes the identification of 3 distinct genes involved in familial CCMs. Still, a number of unanswered questions regarding the process from gene mutation to vascular malformation remain. It is becoming more evident that the disruption of interendothelial junctions and ensuing vascular hyperpermeability play a principal role. The purpose of this review is to summarize the current understanding of CCM genes, associated proteins, and functional pathways. Promising molecular and genetic therapies targeted at identified molecular aberrations are discussed as well.
Neurosurgical treatment of progressive posthemorrhagic ventricular dilation in preterm infants: a 10-year single-institution study
Authors: Limbrick David D. , Mathur Amit , Johnston James M. , Munro Rebecca , Sagar James , Inder Terrie , Park Tae Sung , Leonard Jeffrey L. , Smyth Matthew D.
Published: September 2010

Object

Intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) and progressive posthemorrhagic ventricular dilation (PPHVD) may result in significant neurological morbidity in preterm infants. At present, there is no consensus regarding the optimal timing or type of neurosurgical procedure to best treat PPHVD. Conflicting data exist regarding the relative risks and benefits of two commonly used temporizing neurosurgical procedures (TNPs), ventricular access devices ([VADs] or ventricular reservoirs) versus ventriculosubgaleal (VSG) shunts. This study was designed to address this issue.

Methods

This is a single-center, 10-year retrospective review of all preterm infants admitted to the St. Louis Children's Hospital neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) with Papile Grade III–IV IVH. The development of PPHVD and the requirement for and type of TNP were recorded. Rates of TNP complication, ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt implantation, shunt infection, and mortality rates were used to compare the efficacy and limitations of each TNP type.

Results

Over this 10-year interval, 325 preterm infants with Grade III–IV IVH were identified, with trends showing an increasing number of affected infants annually, and an increasing number of TNPs were required annually. Ninety-five (29.2%) of the 325 infants underwent a TNP for PPHVD (65 VADs, 30 VSG shunts). The rate of permanent VP shunt implantation for all TNPs was 72.6% (69 of 95 infants). Forty-nine (75.4%) of the 65 infants treated with VADs and 20 (66.7%) of the 30 treated with VSG shunts required VP shunts (p = 0.38). There was no statistical difference between VAD or VSG shunt with regard to TNP-related infection (p = 0.57), need for TNP revision (p = 0.16), subsequent shunt infection (p = 0.77), shunt revision rate (p = 0.58), or mortality rate (p = 0.24).

Conclusions

Rates of IVH and PPHVD observed at the authors' center have increased over time. In contrast to recent literature, the results from the current study did not demonstrate a difference in complication rate or requirement for permanent VP shunt placement between VADs and VSG shunts. Definitive conclusions will require a larger, prospective trial.
Pain outcomes after surgery in patients with intramedullary spinal cord cavernous malformations
Authors: Deutsch Harel
Published: September 2010

Object

The objective of the study was to quantify the improvement in pain levels for patients who have undergone surgery for intramedullary spinal cord cavernous malformations (SCCMs).

Methods

The author reviewed medical records of patients who underwent surgery for an intramedullary SCCM between 2003 and 2010. Numerical pain scores (range 0–10) were recorded preoperatively and at follow-up. The follow-up period exceeded 1 year. Neurological status and subjective outcomes were assessed. Each patient underwent follow-up MR imaging.

Results

Five patients were identified with SCCMs who underwent surgery: 4 with thoracic and 1 with cervical lesions. Patients had been conservatively managed for an average of 5 years prior to surgery, and none had a history of acute hemorrhage or neurological deterioration during the observation period. The primary indication for surgery in each patient was pain, although 4 of 5 patients had some evidence of myelopathy on examination. Pain improved from a mean preoperative score of 8.6 to mean score of 2.0 (p < 0.01) at 1 month. Pain scores then increased to 3.7 (p < 0.01) at 1 year. All patients had some improvement in pain. No new motor weakness was noted, but all patients had increased symptoms of posterior-column dysfunction and numbness after surgery.

Conclusions

Spinal cord intramedullary cavernous malformations are increasingly being diagnosed early with patients presenting with mostly pain symptoms. Removal of the lesion is reliably associated with improvement in pain scores but often the pain improvement is transient. While long-term worsening of pain scores occurs, at 1-year follow-up, patients reported pain scores were improved over preoperative scores. In all patients some degree of postoperative posterior-column dysfunction was present. Some of the immediate pain relief may be due to analgesia related to the myelotomy of newly described posterior column pain pathways. In patients with severe pain, surgery to remove SCCMs reduced the overall pain level at 1 year.
Susceptibility weighted magnetic resonance imaging of cerebral cavernous malformations: prospects, drawbacks, and first experience at ultra–high field strength (7-Tesla) magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Dammann Philipp , Barth Markus , Zhu Yuan , Maderwald Stefan , Schlamann Marc , Ladd Mark E. , Sure Ulrich
Published: September 2010

High-resolution susceptibility weighted MR imaging at high field strength provides excellent depiction of venous structures, blood products, and iron deposits, making it a promising complementary imaging modality for cerebral cavernous malformations (CCMs). Although already introduced in 1997 and being constantly improved, susceptibility weighted imaging is not yet routine in clinical neuroimaging protocols for CCMs. In this article, the authors review the recent literature dealing with clinical and scientific susceptibility weighted imaging of CCMs to summarize its prospects and drawbacks and provide their first experience with its use in ultra–high field (7-T) MR imaging.
Operative management of brainstem cavernous malformations
Authors: Asaad Wael F. , Walcott Brian P. , Nahed Brian V. , Ogilvy Christopher S.
Published: September 2010

Brainstem cavernous malformations (CMs) are complex lesions associated with hemorrhage and neurological deficit. In this review, the authors describe the anatomical nuances relating to the operative techniques for these challenging lesions. The resection of brainstem CMs in properly selected patients has been demonstrated to reduce the risk of rehemorrhage and can be achieved relatively safely in experienced hands.
Germinoma with malignant transformation to nongerminomatous germ cell tumor
Authors: Wong Judith M. , Chi Susan N. , Marcus Karen J. , Levine Bat-Sheva , Ullrich Nicole J. , MacDonald Shannon , Lechpammer Mirna , Goumnerova Liliana C.
Published: September 2010

The authors describe the case of a young girl with suprasellar germinoma. Six weeks after this diagnosis, just prior to initiation of therapy, serum and CSF marker analysis revealed sudden and marked elevation of α-fetoprotein, indicating transformation of her germinoma to a nongerminomatous germ cell tumor. She underwent chemotherapy and radiation therapy per the national treatment approach for the new diagnosis, with subsequent return of her serum and CSF tumor markers to normal levels. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first case in the English-language literature of a nongerminomatous germ cell tumor resulting from conversion of germinoma at the original site of presentation.
The Semi-splitting Block Graph of a Graph
Authors: Kulli V. R. , Niranjan K. M.
Published: September 2010

We present here characterizations of graphs whose semi-splitting block graphs are planar, outer planar. Also we characterize graphs whose semi-splitting block graphs are planar and outer planar in terms of forbidden sub graphs. Keywords: Semi-splitting; Block; Planar; Outer planar; Forbidden. © 2010 JSR Publications. ISSN: 2070-0237 (Print); 2070-0245 (Online). All rights reserved. DOI: 10.3329/jsr.v2i3.3626                 J. Sci. Res. 2 (3), 485-488 (2010)
The Transfer Hydrogenation Reactions Catalyzed by Rhodium Schiff Base Complexes
Authors: Al-Salim T. , Hadi J. S. , Al-Nasir E. A. , Hassen M. A.
Published: September 2010

Three new Schiff base rhodium (III) complexes, derived from three ligands, L1, L2 and L3 have been prepared and characterized by IR, 1HNMR, mass spectra and the elemental analysis. These complexes have shown efficient catalytic activity in the transfer hydrogenation of wide variety ketones to the corresponding alcohols in formic acid/triethylamine solution under mild reaction conditions. Depending on the ketone, the percentage of conversion for RhL1 have been found to be (51-92%) compared to RhL2 which had a yield of (42-92%) while for RhL3 (71-94%), within time range of   0.5-12 hrs.  Keywords: Schiff base; Rhodium (III) complex; Transfer hydrogenation; Diamine.                      © 2010 JSR Publications. ISSN: 2070-0237 (Print); 2070-0245 (Online). All rights reserved. DOI: 10.3329/jsr.v2i3.4341                J. Sci. Res. 2 (3), 501-511 (2010)
Biosynthesis of Silver and Gold Nanoparticles: Effect of Microwave Irradiation
Authors: Ahmmad B. , Kurawaki J. , Leonard K. , Kusumoto Yoshihumi
Published: September 2010

A simple and fast synthesis method of gold and silver nanoparticles without any surfactant or reducing agent has been developed by using the extract of green tea (camellia sinensis) under microwave irradiation. The synthesized gold and silver colloidal nanoparticles were spherical in shape and have an average diameter of 13 and 17 nm for Au and Ag nanoparticles, respectively. The as-synthesized nanoparticles were characterized by TEM, XRD, XPS, and UV-visible spectroscopy.Keywords: Microwave; Gold; Silver; Nanoparticles; Biosynthesis.  © 2010 JSR Publications. ISSN: 2070-0237 (Print); 2070-0245 (Online). All rights reserved.DOI: 10.3329/jsr.v2i3.4993         J. Sci. Res. 2 (3), 495-500 (2010)
Mysticism and mental health: A critical dialogue
Authors: Drazenovich George , Kourie Celia
Published: September 2010

Contemporary research suggests that a path is now open for critical dialogue between mysticism and mental health. Data are accumulating regarding the frequency with which mystical experience occurs in the general population. Social science researchers are undertaking studies to determine whether people can knowledgably differentiate between the presence of a mystical experience and other types of experience that occur in their lives. Psychologists are developing clinical criteria by which the mystical and psychotic experience can be differentiated. Neuropsychiatric researchers are exploring the effect of the mystical experience by way of enhanced brain imagery. Theologians are opening up the received wisdom of the mystical tradition and applying it to the present historical context. This paper drew these diverse disciplines together to demonstrate an emerging consensus with respect to the efficacy of mysticism in the field of mental health.
Absence of Rickettsia rickettsii and Occurrence of Other Spotted Fever Group Rickettsiae in Ticks from Tennessee
Authors: Moncayo Abelardo C. , Cohen Sara B. , Fritzen Charissa M. , Huang Eileen , Yabsley Michael J. , Freye James D. , Dunlap Brett G. , Huang Junjun , Mead Daniel G. , Jones Timothy F. , Dunn John R.
Published: September 2010

Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF) is the most common tick-borne illness in Tennessee. Little is known about the occurrence of R. rickettsii, the causative agent, in ticks in Tennessee. To better understand the prevalence and distribution of rickettsial agents in ticks, we tested 1,265 Amblyomma, Dermacentor, and Ixodes adult and nymphal ticks. Additionally, we tested 231 Amblyomma americanum larvae. Ticks were collected from 49 counties from humans, wild animals, domestic canines, and flannel drags. Spotted fever group rickettsiae (SFGR) DNA was detected by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in 32% of adult and nymphal ticks. A total minimum infection rate of 85.63 was found in larval pools tested. Three rickettsial species, Rickettsia montana, Rickettsia amblyommii, and Rickettsia cooleyi were identified by molecular analysis. Rickettsia rickettsii was not detected. This study suggests that some RMSF cases reported in Tennessee may be caused by cross-reactivity with other SFGR antigenically related to R. rickettsii.
Different Strategies Contribute to Community Physical Activity Program Participation in Rural versus Metropolitan Settings
Authors: Wages Joan Given , Jackson Sharolyn Flaming , Bradshaw Michael H. , Chang Mido , Estabrooks Paul A.
Published: September 2010

Purpose.

Determine if recruitment methods are differentially related to the reach of a physical activity program in metro/urban vs. rural settings.

Design.

Cross-sectional survey.

Setting.

Kansas counties.

Subjects.

Ninety-four Cooperative Extension agents responsible for 102 counties.

Measures.

Promotional score, task force activity, and years of program delivery were assessed using a self-report survey. Reach was assessed for each county by dividing the number of participants by intended population using census data.

Analysis.

Rural/urban comparisons on reach were completed using a Mann-Whitney test. Multiple linear regression models were used to determine the relationship between independent variables and participation rate by setting type.

Results.

Metro/urban counties had lower mean participation rates than rural counties (z = −4.5; p < .001). In metro/urban counties, the regression on participation rate was significant (R2 = .19; F = 4.09; p = .011), but only promotional score significantly contributed to the model (p = .003). In rural counties, the regression was also significant (R2 = .34; F = 6.64; p = .001), with task force activity and years of delivery making significant contributions (p = .001 and p = .017, respectively).

Conclusion.

Interpersonal methods may be more effective in recruiting physical activity program participants in rural settings, whereas using a greater variety of promotional methods may be more effective in metro/urban settings.
Influence of a Tobacco-Free Hospital Campus Policy on Smoking Status of Hospital Employees
Authors: Ripley-Moffitt Carol , Viera Anthony J. , Goldstein Adam O. , Steiner Julea B. , Kramer Kathryn D.
Published: September 2010

Purpose:

To examine the influence of a tobacco-free hospital campus (TFHC) policy on employee smoking behavior.

Design:

Questionnaires immediately prior to, 6 months after, and 1 year after implementation of a TFHC policy.

Setting:

University-affiliated hospital system.

Subjects:

A cohort of smokers and recent quitters.

Measures:

Smoking status, quit attempts, influence of TFHC policy.

Analysis:

Descriptive.

Results:

From 2024 employees who responded to an initial online survey prior to implementation of a TFHC policy, 307 respondents reported either current smoking or quitting smoking within the past 6 months. Of these, 210 (68%) agreed to follow-up surveys at 6 and 12 months post-policy implementation. At each of the three times, between 15% and 18.5% of the cohort reported not smoking, with at least 48% of those not smoking reporting 6 to 12 months continuous abstinence. Sixty percent or more of those who reported quit attempts or not smoking indicated that the TFHC policy was influential in their efforts.

Conclusions:

A TFHC policy may lead to increased employee smoking quit attempts and successful cessation. Health care facilities should broaden smoking restrictions to include the entire workplace campus, not only to reduce exposure to environmental tobacco smoke, but also to increase tobacco cessation.
Studying an effect of salt powder seeding used for precipitation enhancement from convective clouds
Authors: Drofa A. S. , Ivanov V. N. , Rosenfeld D. , Shilin A. G.
Published: September 2010

Abstract. Experimental and theoretical studies of cloud microstructure modification with hygroscopic particles for obtaining additional precipitation amounts from convective clouds are performed. The experiment used salt powder with the particle sizes that gave the greatest effectiveness according to the simulations of Segal et al. (2004). The experiments were carried out in a cloud chamber at the conditions corresponding to the formation of convective clouds. The results have shown that the introduction of the salt powder before a cloud medium is formed in the chamber results in the formation on a "tail" of additional large drops. In this case seeding with the salt powder leads also to enlargement of the whole population of cloud drops and to a decrease of their total concentration as compared to a cloud medium that is formed on background aerosols. These results are the positive factors for stimulating coagulation processes in clouds and for subsequent formation of precipitation in them. An overseeding effect, which is characterized by increased droplet concentration and decreased droplet size, was not observed even at high salt powder concentrations. The results of numerical simulations have shown that the transformation of cloud drop spectra induced by the introduction of the salt powder results in more intense coagulation processes in clouds as compared to the case of cloud modification with hygroscopic particles with relatively narrow particle size distributions, and for the distribution of the South African hygroscopic flares. The calculation results obtained with a one-dimensional model of a warm convective cloud demonstrated that the effect of salt powder on clouds (total amounts of additional precipitation) is significantly higher than the effect caused by the use of hygroscopic particles with narrow particle size distributions at comparable consumptions of seeding agents, or with respect to the hygroscopic flares. Here we show that seeding at rather low consumption rate of the salt powder initiates precipitation from otherwise non precipitating warm convective clouds, mainly by the effect of adding large cloud drops to the tail of the distribution.