bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Skull base tumor model
Authors: Gragnaniello Cristian , Nader Remi , Doormaal Tristan van , Kamel Mahmoud , Voormolen Eduard H. J. , Lasio Giovanni , Aboud Emad , Regli Luca , Tulleken Cornelius A. F. , Al-Mefty Ossama
Published: April 2010

Object

Resident duty-hours restrictions have now been instituted in many countries worldwide. Shortened training times and increased public scrutiny of surgical competency have led to a move away from the traditional apprenticeship model of training. The development of educational models for brain anatomy is a fascinating innovation allowing neurosurgeons to train without the need to practice on real patients and it may be a solution to achieve competency within a shortened training period. The authors describe the use of Stratathane resin ST-504 polymer (SRSP), which is inserted at different intracranial locations to closely mimic meningiomas and other pathological entities of the skull base, in a cadaveric model, for use in neurosurgical training.

Methods

Silicone-injected and pressurized cadaveric heads were used for studying the SRSP model. The SRSP presents unique intrinsic metamorphic characteristics: liquid at first, it expands and foams when injected into the desired area of the brain, forming a solid tumorlike structure. The authors injected SRSP via different passages that did not influence routes used for the surgical approach for resection of the simulated lesion. For example, SRSP injection routes included endonasal transsphenoidal or transoral approaches if lesions were to be removed through standard skull base approach, or, alternatively, SRSP was injected via a cranial approach if the removal was planned to be via the transsphenoidal or transoral route. The model was set in place in 3 countries (US, Italy, and The Netherlands), and a pool of 13 physicians from 4 different institutions (all surgeons and surgeons in training) participated in evaluating it and provided feedback.

Results

All 13 evaluating physicians had overall positive impressions of the model. The overall score on 9 components evaluated—including comparison between the tumor model and real tumor cases, perioperative requirements, general impression, and applicability—was 88% (100% being the best possible achievable score where the evaluator strongly agreed with the proposed factor). Individual components had scores at or above 80% (except for 1). The only score that was below 80% was related to radiographic visibility of the model for adequate surgical planning (score of 74%). The highest score was given to usefulness in neurosurgical training (98%).

Conclusions

The skull base tumor model is an effective tool to provide more practice in preoperative planning and technical skills.
Cell-Penetrating Fragments of the Cdk5 Regulatory Subunit Are Protective in Models of Neurodegeneration
Authors: Liman Jan , Weishaupt Jochen H. , Bähr Mathias , Dietz Gunnar P.H.
Published: April 2010

Cdk5 is essential for neuronal differentiation processes in the brain. Activation of Cdk5 requires the association with the mostly neuron-specific p35 or p39. Overactivation of CDK5 by cleavage of p35 into p25 is thought to be involved in neurodegenerative processes. Here, we have tested an approach to inhibit pathological Cdk5 activation with a Tat-linked dominant-negative fragment of p25. It reduced cell death induced by staurosporine and showed a tendency to alleviate manganese-induced cell death, while it did not protect against 6-OHDA toxicity. Our results suggest that the Tat technique is a suitable tool to inhibit dysregulated CDK5.
Ultra-High-Speed Image Signal Accumulation Sensor
Authors: Etoh Takeharu Goji , Son Dao Vu Truong , Akino Toshiaki Koike , Akino Toshiro , Nishi Kenji , Kureta Masatoshi , Arai Masatoshi
Published: April 2010

Averaging of accumulated data is a standard technique applied to processing data with low signal-to-noise ratios (SNR), such as image signals captured in ultra-high-speed imaging. The authors propose an architecture layout of an ultra-high-speed image sensor capable of on-chip signal accumulation. The very high frame rate is enabled by employing an image sensor structure with a multi-folded CCD in each pixel, which serves as an in situ image signal storage. The signal accumulation function is achieved by direct connection of the first and the last storage elements of the in situ storage CCD. It has been thought that the multi-folding is achievable only by driving electrodes with complicated and impractical layouts. Simple configurations of the driving electrodes to overcome the difficulty are presented for two-phase and four-phase transfer CCD systems. The in situ storage image sensor with the signal accumulation function is named Image Signal Accumulation Sensor (ISAS).
Marine Toxins: Chemistry, Toxicity, Occurrence and Detection, with Special Reference to the Dutch Situation
Authors: Gerssen Arjen , Pol-Hofstad Irene E. , Poelman Marnix , Mulder Patrick P.J. , Van den Top Hester J. , De Boer Jacob
Published: April 2010

Various species of algae can produce marine toxins under certain circumstances. These toxins can then accumulate in shellfish such as mussels, oysters and scallops. When these contaminated shellfish species are consumed severe intoxication can occur. The different types of syndromes that can occur after consumption of contaminated shellfish, the corresponding toxins and relevant legislation are discussed in this review. Amnesic Shellfish Poisoning (ASP), Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (PSP), Diarrheic Shellfish Poisoning (DSP) and Azaspiracid Shellfish Poisoning (AZP) occur worldwide, Neurologic Shellfish Poisoning (NSP) is mainly limited to the USA and New Zealand while the toxins causing DSP and AZP occur most frequently in Europe. The latter two toxin groups are fat-soluble and can therefore also be classified as lipophilic marine toxins. A detailed overview of the official analytical methods used in the EU (mouse or rat bioassay) and the recently developed alternative methods for the lipophilic marine toxins is given. These alternative methods are based on functional assays, biochemical assays and chemical methods. From the literature it is clear that chemical methods offer the best potential to replace the animal tests that are still legislated worldwide. Finally, an overview is given of the situation of marine toxins in The Netherlands. The rat bioassay has been used for monitoring DSP and AZP toxins in The Netherlands since the 1970s. Nowadays, a combination of a chemical method and the rat bioassay is often used. In The Netherlands toxic events are mainly caused by DSP toxins, which have been found in Dutch shellfish for the first time in 1961, and have reoccurred at irregular intervals and in varying concentrations. From this review it is clear that considerable effort is being undertaken by various research groups to phase out the animal tests that are still used for the official routine monitoring programs.
Evaluation of the Learning Curve for Reverse Shoulder Arthroplasty
Authors: Riedel Barth B. , Mildren Mark E. , Jobe Christopher M. , Wongworawat Montri D. , Phipatanakul Wesley P.
Published: April 2010

This purpose of this study was to quantify the surgical learning curve and provide guidelines to surgeons interested in teaching and performing reverse shoulder replacement. Sixty-two consecutive primary reverse shoulder replacements performed by a single surgeon were retrospectively reviewed. Using data from consecutive cases, surgical time was plotted against patient case order, and the linear regression slope was calculated. Case length slope analysis demonstrated a significantly negative slope with the first 18 cases, which subsequently leveled thereafter. The number of cases needed to arrive at this flat slope was defined as the proficiency point.

The proficiency point was then verified using the measurable variables of baseplate screw number and glenosphere overhang by dividing the series into 2 groups: Group A included patients who had surgery prior to the proficiency point, and group B included patients who had surgery after the proficiency point. In group A, only 33% (6/18) had all 4 glenoid baseplate screws placed as compared to 66% (29/44) in group B (
P
=.02). Glenosphere overhang increased from a mean of 1.02 mm (±1.29 mm) in group A to 2.58 mm (±1.89 mm) in group B (
P
=.003).

A learning curve of approximately 18 cases was found in this series based on the technical aspects of performing reverse shoulder replacement. This curve is likely even longer for lower volume shoulder surgeons. We recommend specialized training prior to performing this procedure.
The Effectiveness of Ultrasonography-guided Suprascapular Nerve Block for Perishoulder Pain
Authors: Gorthi Venkat , Moon Young Lae , Kang Jeong-Hoon
Published: April 2010

This study analyzed the effectiveness of suprascapular nerve block under ultrasonographic guidance in patients with perishoulder pain. Patients with perishoulder pain were enrolled in the study and were randomly divided into 2 groups. In the first group of 25 patients (12 men and 13 women), nerve block was applied under ultrasonographic guidance. Mean patient age in this group was 55.1 years. In the control group, 25 patients (11 men and 14 women) underwent nerve block without ultrasonographic guidance; mean patient age was 51.6 years. Degree of pain was assessed using a visual analog scale (VAS) and shoulder function was evaluated using the Constant shoulder score (CSS) before the nerve block, immediately following the procedure, and 1 month after the procedure. There was no statistically significant difference between the 2 groups in VAS score and CSS before the procedure (
P
>.05). Immediately after the procedure, both the study and control groups revealed significantly improved VAS and CSS patterns (
P
<.05). However, the study group showed better VAS and CSS patterns than the control group at 1-month follow-up (
P
<.05). No complications occurred in the study group. In the control group, there were 2 cases of arterial punctures and 3 cases of direct nerve injury with neurological deficit for 2 months. Ultrasonography-guided suprascapular nerve injection is a safe, accurate, and useful procedure compared to the blind technique.
Posterior Surgery Assisted by Halo Ring Traction for the Treatment of Severe Rigid Nonangular Cervical Kyphosis
Authors: Zhang HongQi , Liu ShaoHua , Guo ChaoFeng , Chen LingQiang , Wang YongFu , Zhao Di , Chen Jing
Published: April 2010

The correction of cervical kyphosis is a challenging problem in spinal surgery. Several reports exist regarding the surgical correction of severe rigid cervical kyphosis; however, no detailed reports exist on the correction of severe rigid nonangular cervical kyphosis. The goal of this study was to analyze the clinical and radiographic outcomes of surgical treatment for severe rigid nonangular cervical kyphosis.

Thirteen patients with severe rigid nonangular cervical kyphosis who were treated with primary halo ring cervical traction for 7 to 16 days (average, 10 days) were studied. When the preoperative kyphosis was corrected by at least 30%, they underwent fusion and correction using internal screw-rod fixation via a posterior approach. All patients were followed up for 25 to 62 months (average, 46 months). The results were studied clinically and radiographically. The average cervical kyphosis was 45.3° on admission and was corrected to −0.8° postoperatively and was −0.4° at final follow-up. There was a mean improvement of 4.7 in the Japanese Orthopedic Association (JOA) scores, from a mean score of 10.7 on admission to 15.4 at final follow-up. Nerve function improved 74.6% on average. All patients underwent solid bony fusion within 6 months postoperatively. A transient C5 nerve paresis was noted in 2 patients.

Primary halo ring traction with posterior correction using subsequent internal screw-rod fixation proved to be safe and effective for treating severe rigid nonangular cervical kyphosis. This treatment can achieve the goals of complete spinal cord decompression and deformity correction.
Late Repair of an Osteochondral Fracture of the Patella
Authors: Hoshino C. Max , Thomas Bradley M.
Published: April 2010

Acute patellar dislocations are a common injury in young patients. Osteochondral fractures are commonly associated with this injury, frequently necessitating surgical treatment. This article presents a case of a 23-year-old woman who sustained a large osteochondral fracture of the medial facet of the patella during a first-time acute patellar dislocation. The patient was lost to follow-up; consequently, surgical treatment was not performed until 8 weeks after injury. Diagnostic arthroscopy demonstrated a large osteochondral fragment in the suprapatellar pouch and a defect on the medial facet of the patella with early fibrocartilage growth. Using an open approach, the osteochondral fracture was fixed with headless screws buried beneath the cartilage. After fracture fixation, continued lateral subluxation of the patella was present; therefore, to improve patellar tracking and protect our fracture fixation, a Fulkerson tibial tubercle osteotomy (including a lateral release) and a medial patellofemoral ligament repair were performed. At the conclusion of the surgery, we had achieved rigid fixation of the fracture and normalized patellofemoral tracking.

At 1 year post-injury, the patient has achieved union of her patellar osteochondral fracture and tibial tubercle osteotomy. She has full range of motion and minimal anterior knee pain and has not experienced further episodes of patellar instability. Even in patients who present in a delayed fashion, consideration should be given to the repair of patellar osteochondral fractures and, if necessary, realignment of the extensor mechanism.
Chronic Granulomatous Tenosynovitis Treated With Ulnar Superficialis Slip Resection
Authors: Rubin Guy , Wolovelsky Alejandro , Rinott Micha , Rozen Nimrod
Published: April 2010

Ulnar superficialis slip resection is a procedure initially performed to treat flexor tenosynovitis in the rheumatoid finger. It was first described for treating trigger digits of children with mucopolysaccharide storage disorders and for more complex trigger digits in children. The procedure for adults with trigger finger was described for triggering with flexion contracture at the proximal interphalangeal joint level persisting after release of the A1 pulley and for trigger finger in diabetic patients.

This article describes a case of chronic flexor tenosynovitis treated with ulnar superficialis slip resection. The patient was injured by the needle of a water pressure gauge. He developed chronic flexor tenosynovitis, and 1 year after the initial injury, surgery was performed due to a severe limitation of passive and active proximal interphalangeal joint flexion. Synovectomy was performed first, then the A1 pulley was divided. Passive finger flexion and extension was simulated and failed to reproduce full range of motion (ROM). The A3 pulley was then divided and still failed to reproduce full ROM. The ulnar slip of the flexor digitorum superficialis tendon was then resected from the distal margin of the carpal tunnel to the distal edge of the A3 pulley. The tendons could now move smoothly, and full passive ROM was achieved.

Surgery consisting of synovectomy alone with or without resection of the A1 pulley without achieving full intraoperative ROM will likely lead to a poor result. We believe that cases like ours should be addressed with an “à la carte” procedure, starting with synovectomy and followed by A1 resection, A3 resection, and finally ulnar superficialis slip resection for achieving full intraoperative ROM.
Sporotrichosis of the Upper Extremity
Authors: Milby Andrew H. , Pappas Nick D. , O'Donnell Judith , Bozentka David J.
Published: April 2010

This article presents a case of a chronic, nonhealing thumb wound in a patient with diabetes mellitus. A 67-year-old right-hand-dominant man presented with progressive erythema and swelling of the right thumb several months after sustaining a paper cut along the eponychium. The patient had already completed an extensive laboratory evaluation, including bacterial and fungal cultures, as well as a punch biopsy that was inconclusive. In addition, the patient underwent several rounds of empiric antibiotic therapy without resolution of his symptoms. Despite these measures, the patient's thumb wound persisted and new lesions began to appear proximally along the forearm. Excisional biopsy of the lesions was ultimately required to obtain additional tissue for a pathologic analysis. Culture of the specimen on Saboraud dextrose agar revealed a definitive diagnosis of infection withSporothrix schenkii. A subsequent course of oral antifungal therapy with itraconazole was well tolerated and resulted in disease regression. Early diagnosis of sporotrichosis is essential to prevent complications including septic arthritis, systemic infection, and death. This case illustrates the importance of maintaining a high index of suspicion for atypical infectious agents in patients with poor immune function.
Simultaneous Acute Rotator Cuff Tear and Distal Biceps Rupture in a Strongman Competitor
Authors: George Michael S.
Published: April 2010

Acute rotator cuff tear is commonly associated with tearing of the proximal biceps tendon, but has never been reported to occur simultaneously with a distal biceps tendon rupture. A 38-year-old right-hand-dominant strongman competitor attempted a 300-pound overhead axle press and experienced immediate pain in the right shoulder and elbow. He had no known systemic risk factors for tendon ruptures including hyperparathyroidism, hemodialysis, alcoholism, rheumatoid arthritis, statin medications, fluoroquinolones, and steroid use.

Right shoulder magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed a full-thickness supraspinatus tear with 3 cm of retraction. There was minimal fatty infiltration of the supraspinatus on the sagittal cuts consistent with acute rupture. The subscapularis was intact. The long head of the biceps tendon had mild medial subluxation but was completely within the bicipital groove. Right elbow MRI showed a complete distal biceps tendon rupture. Thirteen days after his injury, the patient underwent arthroscopic supraspinatus repair and proximal biceps tenodesis. Distal biceps tendon repair was performed using the modified 2-incision muscle-splitting technique. At 24-month follow-up, the patient was pain free and had returned to full activity including weightlifting but had not returned to strongman competition.

This is the first report of simultaneous acute full thickness ruptures of the rotator cuff and distal biceps tendon. This case report underscores the importance of a complete physical examination and a high index of suspicion for additional concomitant injuries, particularly in athletes with unusually high stresses to the body.
The Case: Chronic Recurrent Multifocal Osteomyelitis
Authors: Koplas Monica C. , Simonelli Priya S. , Bauer Thomas W. , Joyce Michael J. , Sundaram Murali
Published: April 2010

An 11-year-old girl presented with back pain. Lumbar spine radiographs were unremarkable. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed lesions at T10 (Figure
1
) and the bilateral sacral ala (Figure
2
). A whole-body MRI revealed further lesions in the left acetabulum, right knee, and proximal left femur.
Epithelial, Stromal, and Total Corneal Thickness in Keratoconus: Three-dimensional Display With Artemis Very-high Frequency Digital Ultrasound
Authors: Reinstein Dan Z. , Gobbe Marine , Archer Timothy J. , Silverman Ronald H. , Coleman D. Jackson
Published: April 2010

PURPOSE:

To characterize the epithelial, stromal, and total corneal thickness profile in a population of eyes with keratoconus.

METHODS:

Epithelial, stromal, and total corneal thickness profiles were measured in vivo by Artemis very high-frequency (VHF) digital ultrasound scanning (ArcScan) across the central 6- to 10-mm diameter of the cornea on 54 keratoconic eyes. Maps of the average, standard deviation, minimum, maximum, and range of epithelial, stromal, and total corneal thickness were plotted. The average location of the thinnest epithelium, stroma, and total cornea were found. The cross-sectional semi-meridional stromal and total corneal thickness profiles were calculated using annular averaging. The absolute stromal and total corneal thickness progressions relative to the thinnest point were calculated using annular averaging as well as for 8 semi-meridians individually.

RESULTS:

The mean corneal vertex epithelial, stromal, and total corneal thicknesses were 45.7±5.9 µm, 426.4±38.5 µm, and 472.2±41.4 µm, respectively. The average epithelial thickness profile showed an epithelial doughnut pattern characterized by localized central thinning surrounded by an annulus of thick epithelium. The thinnest epithelium, stroma, and total cornea were displaced on average by 0.48±0.66 mm temporally and 0.32±0.67 mm inferiorly, 0.31±0.45 mm temporally and 0.54±0.37 mm inferiorly, and 0.31±0.43 mm temporally and 0.50±0.35 mm inferiorly, respectively, with reference to the corneal vertex. The increase in semi-meridional absolute stromal and total corneal thickness progressions was greatest inferiorly and lowest temporally.

CONCLUSIONS:

Three-dimensional thickness mapping of the epithelial, stromal, and total corneal thickness profiles characterized thickness changes associated with keratoconus and may help in early diagnosis of keratoconus. [
J Refract Surg
. 2010;26:259–271.]
Changes in Ocular Response Analyzer Parameters After LASIK
Authors: Chen Shihao , Chen Ding , Wang Jianhua , Lu Fan , Wang Qinmei , Qu Jia
Published: April 2010

PURPOSE:

To investigate changes in Ocular Response Analyzer parameters after myopic LASIK.

METHODS:

Thirty myopic patients (60 eyes) undergoing bilateral LASIK were studied prospectively. Corneal hysteresis, corneal resistance factor, Goldmann-correlated intraocular pressure (IOPg), and corneal-compensated IOP (IOPcc) measurements were obtained with the Ocular Response Analyzer before and after LASIK. Central corneal thickness and corneal flap thickness were also measured with optical coherence tomography.

RESULTS:

Compared with preoperative baseline values, corneal hysteresis, corneal resistance factor, IOPg, IOPcc, and central corneal thickness decreased postoperatively (
P
<.01). Corneal hysteresis (CH), corneal resistance factor (CRF), IOPg, IOPcc, and central corneal thickness (CCT) increased between 10 days and 3 months (post-hoc,
P
<.05). (The differences between the preoperative values and those at 3 months postoperatively are denoted by Δ.) The correlation of the ablation depth was stronger for ΔCRF (r=0.457) than for ΔCH (r=0.271). ΔCH was negatively correlated to flap thickness (r=−0.361) and the ratio of flap thickness to preoperative central corneal thickness (r=−0.442) whereas ΔCRF was not. ΔCH was positively correlated with ΔIOPcc, and ΔCRF was positively correlated with ΔIOPg. ΔIOPg was positively correlated with ΔCCT whereas ΔIOPcc was not.

CONCLUSIONS:

Corneal biomechanical properties measured by corneal hysteresis and corneal resistance factor were decreased at 10 days after LASIK. Minimal recovery (approximately 10% of the changes) was achieved by 3 months. The changes in biomechanical properties may affect IOP measurement. [
J Refract Surg
. 2010;26:279–288.]
LASIK Correction of Vision in Adults with Unilateral Amblyopia
Authors: Oruçoğlu - Orucov Faik , Frucht-Pery Joseph , Landau David , Strasman Eyal , Solomon Abraham
Published: April 2010

Purpose:

To evaluate the effects of laser refractive surgery in adult patients with mild to moderate amblyopia due to anisometropic myopia.

Methods:

A retrospective review of 30 patients (60 eyes) with unilateral amblyopia (corrected distance visual acuity [CDVA] 0.6 or worse) who underwent simultaneous bilateral laser vision correction using the Technolas 217z excimer laser (Bausch & Lomb) was performed. Mean patient age was 31.03±10.05 years (range: 18 to 53 years). Visual outcomes in the amblyopic eye were compared with those in the fellow nonamblyopic control eye of the same patient.

Results:

Mean preoperative CDVA improved in amblyopic eyes from 0.50±0.13 to 0.57±0.20 postoperatively (average gain of 0.075±0.14;
P
=.007) and improved from 0.92±0.12 preoperatively to 0.93±0.15 after surgery (mean gain of 0.013±0.14;
P
=.603) in the fellow nonamblyopic eyes. The safety index was significantly greater in the amblyopic eyes compared with the nonamblyopic fellow eyes (1.15±0.30 vs 1.02±0.15,
P
=.035), therefore, no difference was noted in efficacy (
P
=.913). Five of 30 eyes with mild to moderate amblyopia gained 2 to 4 lines of CDVA.

Conclusions:

Laser refractive surgery for myopic correction was found to be safe and effective in eyes with mild to moderate amblyopia.
Live or Let Die: Epithelial Flap Vitality and Keratocyte Proliferation Following LASEK and Epi-LASIK in Human Donor and Porcine Eyes
Authors: Angunawela Romesh I. , Winkler von Mohrenfels Christoph , Kumar Anupma , O’Brart David P.S. , Marshall John
Published: April 2010

Purpose:

To determine the relationship between epithelial flap vitality and stromal keratocyte proliferation following two epithelial refractive techniques: epi-LASIK and laser epithelial keratomileusis (LASEK).

Methods:

Human corneas were maintained in organ culture and underwent standard −6.00-diopter ablation. Rates of stromal keratocyte proliferation were detected 1 week postoperative using a Ki67 antibody specific to proliferating cells. Images were captured with a laser scanning confocal microscope and analyzed by a masked observer. Epithelial flap vitality was determined with propidium iodide using fresh porcine corneas. Epithelial flaps were created with Gebauer Epikeratome epi-LASIK or alcohol-assisted LASEK method. Flaps treated with 100% alcohol and uninjured corneas were used as controls.

Results:

The number of proliferating keratocytes was greatest at 1 week in the epi-LASIK corneas (
P
<.001). Cell vitality was greatest in the epi-LASIK flaps and declined in the LASEK and 100% alcohol flaps (
P
<.001).

Conclusions:

In this in vitro setting, epi-LASIK results in an epithelial flap with significantly more live cells. There is also a greater number of proliferating stromal cells following epi-LASIK at 1 week. Based on these in vitro observations, epi-LASIK may result in greater levels of haze compared to LASEK.
Repeatability of Retinal Thickness Measurements Between Spectral-Domain and Time-Domain Optical Coherence Tomography Images in Macular Disease
Authors: Domalpally Amitha , Gangaputra Sapna , Peng Qian , Danis Ronald P.
Published: April 2010

Background and Objective:

To evaluate and compare the intra-session repeatability of retinal thickness measurements from the Topcon 3D OCT 1000 (Topcon Medical Systems; Paramus, NJ), a spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) system, with the Stratus (Carl Zeiss Meditec, Inc., Dublin, CA), a time-domain OCT (TD-OCT) system, in eyes with retinal diseases.

Patients and Methods:

Repeated scans with both SD-OCT and TD-OCT were taken. Thickness measurements from high-quality scans were used to assess repeatability and compare measurements between the two instruments.

Results:

Paired scans from 127 eyes were evaluated, of which 63 pairs were of high quality. Coefficients of repeatability and variation for the central subfield were 20.1 μm (2.6%) with SD-OCT and 27.4 μm (4%) with TD-OCT (
P
= .38). The mean difference in central subfield thickness between the two instruments was 24.5 μm (standard deviation = 20.9).

Conclusion:

Repeatability of retinal thickness measurements with the Topcon 3D OCT 1000 is comparable to the Stratus. The measurements of the two machines differ significantly and cannot be used interchangeably.
Magnet-Assisted Capsular Bag Fixation to Manage Limited Zonular Weakness During Phacoemulsification
Authors: Ghaffariyeh Alireza , Honarpisheh Nazafarin
Published: April 2010

A new technique to manage limited zonular weakness during phacoemulsification is presented in this report. The technique, called magnet-assisted capsular bag fixation, uses the magnetic implant to stretch and fixate the capsular bag over the zonular dehiscence area for patients with limited zonular disruption, which stabilizes the capsular bag and facilitates cataract extraction.
A New Vascular Pattern for Idiopathic Juxtafoveal Telangiectasia Revealed by the Retinal Function Imager
Authors: Landa Gennady , Rosen Richard B.
Published: April 2010

Background and Objective:

The Retinal Function Imager (RFI) (Optical Imaging, Rehovot, Israel) is a novel method for assessing retinal blood flow characteristics and demonstrating the dynamics of fine retinal vasculature. The authors report a new pattern of retinal blood flow in five patients with idiopathic juxtafoveal telangiectasia (IJT) type 2.

Patients and Methods:

Retinal circulation is imaged using the RFI as a series of high-speed stroboscopically captured fundus photographs. Proprietary software aligns the images, allowing serial subtraction, and creates short video loops that show movement of red blood cells in the small and medium size retinal blood vessels.

Results:

Ten eyes of five patients with IJT type 2 were examined. In all cases, the RFI demonstrated a common pattern of centripetal vascular flow in the region of telangiectasia. This pattern is unique in its configuration of vascular flow into the focus of the area of telangiectasia. This pattern could not be appreciated on fluorescein angiography.

Conclusion:

The RFI can detect the specific vascular pattern of the retinal blood flow in eyes of patients with IJT. The ability to characterize such blood flow patterns may aid in identification of ambiguous cases of IJT when the diagnosis is not straightforward.
Quality of Life Among Norwegian Older Adults: Focus Group Results
Authors: Kalfoss Mary
Published: April 2010

Fundamental to the nursing profession is understanding what issues are important to quality of life (QoL) for older adults. The aim of this study was to explore issues of importance to older adults and to compare findings with Lawton's theoretical QoL conceptualization. Five focus groups were conducted with healthy and hospitalized adults and health professionals. Many valued aspects of human existence were found to affect QoL, and results lend empirical support to many of the themes appearing under Lawton's four sectors. Results indicate the need for multidimensional assessments of QoL among older adults related to health, psychological, personal competency, social, environmental, and spiritual indicators. Issues related to time use, happiness, cognitive functioning, self-concept, coping with change, social functioning, self-determination, altruistic activity, living conditions, security, and technological aids should also be considered in future assessments of QoL. Research is needed to explore the relevancy of these issues in future assessments of QoL among older adults.
A Soft Computing System for Modelling the Manufacture of Steel Components
Authors: Sedano Javier , Villar José Ramón , Curiel Leticia , Corchado Emilio , Bustillo Andrés
Published: April 2010

This chapter presents a soft computing system developed to optimize the laser milling manufacture of high value steel components, a relatively new and interesting industrial technique. This applied research presents a multidisciplinary study based on the application of unsupervised neural projection models in conjunction with identification systems, in order to find the optimal operating conditions in this industrial issue. Sensors on a laser milling centre capture the data used in this industrial case of study defined under the frame of a machine-tool that manufactures steel components for high value molds and dies. Then a detailed study of the laser milling manufacture of high value steel components is presented based mainly on the analysis of four features: angle error, depth error, surface roughness and material removal rate. The presented model is based on a two-phases application. The first phase uses an unsupervised neural projection model capable of determine if the data collected is informative enough. The second phase is focus on identifying a model for the laser-milling process based on low-order models such as Black Box ones. The whole system is capable of approximating the optimal form of the model. Finally, it is shown that the Box-Jenkins and Output Error algorithms, which calculate the function of a linear system based on its input and output variables, are the most appropriate models to control such industrial task for the case of the analysed steel tools. The model can be applied to laser milling optimization of other materials of industrial interest and also to other industrial multivariable processes like High Speed Milling or Laser Cladding.
Wetting Behavior of Amorphous and Crystalline Silicon Dioxide in Contact with a Silicate Slag Based on Fayalite
Authors: Aneziris Christos G. , Dudczig Steffen
Published: April 2010

In this work the wetting behaviour of amorphous and crystalline silicon dioxide in contact with a silicate slag based on fayalite is demonstrated as a function of contact angles, activation energies of the kinetic stages of wetting. In addition the dynamic adhesion work has been calculated as a function of the inclination angle. The amorphous silicon dioxide in contact with the slag presents lower contact angles accompanied also by higher dynamic adhesion works in comparison to crystalline porous ceramics with the same chemistry.
Microstructural and Mechanical Investigations on Porcelain‐Fused‐to‐Metal in Multilayer System
Authors: Carradò Adele , Palkowski Heinz
Published: April 2010

Results on porcelain‐fused‐to‐metal (PFM) technique of ceramic films for biomedical applications on metal substrate are reported. The coating of metallic implants with bio‐ceramic films (glassy and opaque ceramic) was proposed to be a solution for combining the mechanical properties of the metallic material with the bioactive character of the ceramic layer, leading to a better integration of the entire implant. The aim of this paper is to determine a stress field distribution by a non‐destructive method as high‐energy synchrotron X‐ray diffraction in energy dispersive in the metal and glass ceramic bulk as well as at metal–opaque ceramic interface in PFM three layers sample. Tensile stresses were found in palladium substrate and compressive state in glass ceramic coating. Moreover thermal stresses induced by PFM coating at the interfaces were calculated by analytical mathematical model, confirming that the stresses induced, due to the selection of the materials, are low. Finally, the micro‐structural and chemical characteristics of glassy and opaque bio‐ceramic coatings on palladium alloy substrate were investigated and no inter‐diffusion area between metal and ceramic could be detected as well as non‐homogeneity in the interface ceramic.
Annealing of Biodegradable Polymer Induced by Femtosecond Laser Micromachining
Authors: Yeong Wai Yee , Lim Kee Pah , Ng Gary Ka Lai , Tan Lay Poh , Boey Freddy Yin Chiang , Venkatraman Subbu S.
Published: April 2010

Femtosecond laser is a potential tool for net shape processing of biodegradable polymers. However, laser processing of polymeric material is still a challenge and the effects induced by laser ablation needs to be investigated. Poly(ε‐caprolactone) was micromachined at high fluence and the heat affected zone was characterized. Two different phases of microstructure, namely the annealed spherulite zone and the amorphous zone, are found.
In Vitro Characteristics of Surface‐Modified Biphasic Calcium Phosphate/Poly(L‐Lactide) Biocomposite
Authors: Yang Weizhong , Yin Guangfu , Zhou Dali , Gu Jianwen , Li Yadong
Published: April 2010

Surface‐modified biphasic calcium phosphate (BCP)/poly(L‐lactide) (PLLA) biocomposite is shown to have improved microstructure and mechanical properties compared to the unmodified system. In vitro biodegradation and bioactivity of the composite are investigated in simulate body fluid for up to four weeks. Weight changes of the samples and the pH changes of the SBF are recorded. Surface properties of the composite after immersion are characterized by XRD, SEM and EDX analyses. Cyto‐compatibility was determined by MTT assay with L929 mouse fibroblasts. The difference of the degradation behavior between modified BCP/PLLA and the reference unmodified composite are investigated, and mBCP/PLLA composite is proved to be a better as a scaffold material. The surface formed bio‐apatite layer after immersion shows the excellent bioactivity of the mBCP/PLLA composite. L929 cells show a high growth rate and proliferation, demonstrating the good cytocompatibility of mBCP/PLLA composite.
In‐Film Bioprocessing and Immunoanalysis with Electroaddressable Stimuli‐Responsive Polysaccharides
Authors: Yang Xiaohua , Kim Eunkyoung , Liu Yi , Shi Xiao‐Wen , Rubloff Gary W. , Ghodssi Reza , Bentley William E. , Pancer Zeev , Payne Gregory F.
Published: April 2010

Advances in thin‐film fabrication are integral to enhancing the power of microelectronics while fabrication methods that allow the integration of biological molecules are enabling advances in bioelectronics. A thin‐film‐fabrication method that further extends the integration of biology with microelectronics by allowing living biological systems to be assembled, cultured, and analyzed on‐chip with the aid of localized electrical signals is described. Specifically, the blending of two stimuli‐responsive film‐forming polysaccharides for electroaddressing is reported. The first, alginate, can electrodeposit by undergoing a localized sol–gel transition in response to electrode‐imposed anodic signals. The second, agarose, can be co‐deposited with alginate and forms a gel upon a temperature reduction. Electrodeposition of this dual polysaccharide network is observed to be a simple, rapid, and spatially selective means for assembly. The bioprocessing capabilities are examined by co‐depositing a yeast clone engineered to display a variable lymphocyte receptor protein on the cell surface. Results demonstrate the in‐film expansion and induction of this cell population. Analysis of the cells' surface proteins is achieved by the electrophoretic delivery of immunoreagents into the film. These results demonstrate a simple and benign means to electroaddress hydrogel films for in‐film bioprocessing and immunoanalysis.
Animal models of Williams syndrome
Authors: Osborne Lucy R.
Published: April 2010

In recent years, researchers have generated a variety of mouse models in an attempt to dissect the contribution of individual genes to the complex phenotype associated with Williams syndrome (WS). The mouse genome is easily manipulated to produce animals that are copies of humans with genetic conditions, be it with null mutations, hypomorphic mutations, point mutations, or even large deletions encompassing many genes. The existing mouse models certainly seem to implicate hemizygosity for ELN, BAZ1B, CLIP2, and GTF2IRD1 in WS, and new mice with large deletions of the WS region are helping us to understand both the additive and potential combinatorial effects of hemizygosity for specific genes. However, not all genes that are haploinsufficient in humans prove to be so in mice and the effect of genetic background can also have a significant effect on the penetrance of many phenotypes. Thus although mouse models are powerful tools, the information garnered from their study must be carefully interpreted. Nevertheless, mouse models look set to provide a wealth of information about the neuroanatomy, neurophysiology and molecular pathways that underlie WS and in the future will act as essential tools for the development and testing of therapeutics. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Inversion of the Williams syndrome region is a common polymorphism found more frequently in parents of children with Williams syndrome
Authors: Hobart Holly H. , Morris Colleen A. , Mervis Carolyn B. , Pani Ariel M. , Kistler Doris J. , Rios Cecilia M. , Kimberley Kendra W. , Gregg Ronald G. , Bray‐Ward Patricia
Published: April 2010

Williams syndrome (WS) is a multisystem disorder caused by deletion of about 1.55 Mb of DNA (including 26 genes) on chromosome 7q11.23, a region predisposed to recombination due to its genomic structure. Deletion of the Williams syndrome chromosome region (WSCR) occurs sporadically. To better define chance for familial recurrence and to investigate the prevalence of genomic rearrangements of the region, 257 children with WS and their parents were studied. We determined deletion size in probands by metaphase FISH, parent‐of‐origin of the deleted chromosome by molecular genetic methods, and inversion status of the WSCR in both parents by interphase FISH. The frequency of WSCR inversion in the transmitting parent group was 24.9%. In contrast, the rate of inversion in the non‐transmitting parent group (a reasonable estimate of the rate in the general population) was 5.8%. There were no significant gender differences with respect to parent‐of‐origin for the deleted chromosome or the incidence of the inversion polymorphism. There was no difference in the rate of spontaneous abortion for mothers heterozygous for the WSCR inversion relative to mothers without the inversion. We calculate that for a parent heterozygous for a WSCR inversion, the chance to have a child with WS is about 1 in 1,750, in contrast to the 1 in 9,500 chance for a parent without an inversion. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Sensory modulation impairments in children with Williams syndrome
Authors: John Angela E. , Mervis Carolyn B.
Published: April 2010

The ability to organize information detected by our senses (“sensory modulation”) allows us to act or respond effectively to situations encountered, facilitating learning, social behavior, and day‐to‐day functioning. We hypothesized that children with Williams syndrome (WS) would demonstrate symptoms of poor sensory modulation and that these sensory modulation abnormalities contribute to the phenotype. Participants were 78 children with WS aged 4.00–10.95 years. Based on parent ratings on the Short Sensory Profile [SSP; Dunn,1999], most children were classified as having definite sensory modulation issues. Cluster analysis identified the presence of two clusters varying in level of sensory modulation impairment. Children in thehigh impairment groupdemonstrated poorer adaptive functioning, executive functioning, more problem behaviors, and more difficult temperaments than children in thelow impairment group. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cognitive and behavioral characteristics of children with Williams syndrome: Implications for intervention approaches
Authors: Mervis Carolyn B. , John Angela E.
Published: April 2010

Portrayals of individuals with Williams syndrome (WS), a genetic disorder caused by a microdeletion of ∼25 genes on chromosome 7q11.23, have reached the general public through a variety of media formats. These descriptions are often paradoxical in nature with individuals with WS repeatedly described as demonstrating near‐normal language despite the presence of significant intellectual disability and as being extremely sociable and friendly in spite of their seemingly limited understanding of basic social norms. While this depiction of WS served to attract the interest of basic‐science researchers, the results of subsequent studies have provided a more nuanced view. For example, rather than across‐the‐board “near‐normal” language, children with WS demonstrate relative strengths in concrete vocabulary and verbal short‐term memory, grammatical abilities at the level expected for general intellectual ability, and considerable weakness in relational/conceptual language and pragmatics (social use of language). To provide a more thorough characterization of the WS behavioral phenotype, we summarize recent findings related to intellectual ability, language development, memory development, executive function development, adaptive behavior skills, and behavior as it relates to learning by children with WS. Finally, we briefly discuss intervention approaches that may help children with WS to achieve their full potential. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Alpha 1 antitrypsin deficiency alleles are associated with joint dislocation and scoliosis in Williams syndrome
Authors: Morris Colleen A. , Pani Ariel M. , Mervis Carolyn B. , Rios Cecilia M. , Kistler Doris J. , Gregg Ronald G.
Published: April 2010

Elastin haploinsufficiency is responsible for a significant portion of the Williams syndrome (WS) phenotype including hoarse voice, supravalvar aortic stenosis (SVAS), hernias, diverticuli of bowel and bladder, soft skin, and joint abnormalities. All of the connective tissue signs and symptoms are variable in the WS population, but few factors other than age and gender are known to influence the phenotype. We examined a cohort of 205 individuals with WS for mutations in SERPINA1, the gene that encodes alpha‐1‐antitrypsin (AAT), the inhibitor of elastase. Individuals with classic WS deletions and SERPINA1 genotypes PiMS or PiMZ were more likely than those with a SERPINA1 PiMM genotype to have joint dislocation or scoliosis. However, carrier status for AAT deficiency was not correlated with presence of inguinal hernia or with presence or severity of SVAS. These findings suggest that genes important in elastin metabolism are candidates for variability in the connective tissue abnormalities in WS. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Magnetisch abtrennbare Nanokatalysatoren: Brücken zwischen homogener und heterogener Katalyse
Authors: Shylesh Sankaranarayanapillai , Schünemann Volker , Thiel Werner R.
Published: April 2010

Abtrennung und Wiederverwertung wertvoller Katalysatoren im Anschluss an eine katalytische Reaktion sind wichtige Faktoren für eine nachhaltige Prozessführung. Ziel dieses Aufsatzes ist es, die Fortschritte bei der Herstellung magnetischer Nanopartikel und Nanokomposite sowie deren Anwendungen in der Katalyse zu beleuchten. Die gezielte Funktionalisierung der Oberfläche nanoskaliger magnetischer Materialien eröffnet eine elegante Möglichkeit, um Brücken zwischen homogener und heterogener Katalyse zu bauen. Durch den Einbau magnetischer Nanopartikel in unterschiedliche feste Matrices können bekannte Routen der Katalysatorheterogenisierung mit Techniken der magnetischen Abtrennung kombiniert werden.
Analytische Chemie im Femtoliter
Authors: Gorris Hans H. , Walt David R.
Published: April 2010

Die Kompartimentierung von Reaktionen in Femtoliter(fL)‐Gefäßen und die Integration von fL‐Gefäßen in Arrays verstärkt und beschleunigt nicht nur die chemische und biochemische Analyse, sondern führt auch zu neuen wissenschaftlichen Methoden und Erkenntnissen. Dieser Aufsatz stellt die verschiedenen fL‐Gefäße und Array‐Formate vor und lotet ihre Anwendungen für den Nachweis und die Charakterisierung von biologisch bedeutsamen Analyten aus. Wenn fL‐ Arrays mit Analyten, Sonden oder Zellen bestückt werden, können tausende analytischer Messungen parallel durchgeführt werden. Der Einschluss einzelner Enzymmoleküle in fL‐Arrays ermöglicht die gleichzeitig Analyse einer Vielzahl individueller Enzymmoleküle. Neue Nanofabrikationstechniken und immer empfindlichere Nachweismethoden sind die treibende Kraft auf dem Gebiet der analytischen Chemie “im Femtoliter”. Unsere Übersicht befasst sich insbesondere mit dem Fortschritt und den Herausforderungen auf dem Gebiet der analytischen Chemie im fL mit Beispielen sowohl aus der Grundlagenforschung als auch aus der angewandten Forschung.