bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transparent Eu3+‐Doped Ferroelectric Bismuth Titanate Glass‐Ceramic Nanocomposites: Fabrication and Properties
Authors: Molla Atiar Rahaman , Tarafder Anal , Mukherjee Siddhartha , Karmakar Basudeb
Published: July 2012

Bismuth titanate (Bi4Ti3O12) (BiT), glass is prepared by the melt‐quench technique in the SiO2–K2O–Bi2O3–TiO2 (SKBT) system doping with Eu2O3 and transparent BiT glass‐ceramics (GC) is derived from it by controlled heat‐treatment at 500°C by varying duration. The structural properties of the heat‐treated GC are investigated using X‐ray diffraction (XRD), electron microscopy [Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE‐SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM)], and fourier transform infrared reflectance spectroscopy. FE‐SEM and TEM images show the formation of polycrystalline spherical particles of 100–200 nm with 10–15 nm crystallites after heat‐treatment. A significant increase in εr value (from 20 to 35) was observed with increase in heat‐treatment time. The transmission losses of GC which happened with heat‐treatment time are due to Rayleigh scattering exhibited by nanocrystallites of BiT. The excitation spectra have been recorded by monitoring emission at 612 nm corresponding to the 5D0 → 7F2 transition and an intense 467 nm excitation band corresponding to the 7F0 → 5D2 has been observed. Emission spectra were recorded by exciting the glass samples at 467 nm. It is observed that with increase in heat‐treatment time, the intensity of red emission at 612 nm increases by 8‐fold, which has happened due to the occupancy of Eu3+ ions in the low phonon energy crystal sites of BiT.
¿Sustituye el trabajo infantil al trabajo de los adultos? Trabajo infantil y enfermedad del adulto en Nepal
Authors: Nepal Apsara , Nepal Mani
Published: July 2012

Con datos de una encuesta oficial de hogares, se verifican el axioma del «lujo» y el axioma de la «sustitución» para explicar el trabajo infantil en Nepal. Ambos parecen confirmarse: a más ingresos per cápita de un hogar, menos horas de trabajo infantil, y cuando los adultos no trabajan por enfermedad, estas horas aumentan. Las niñas trabajan más que los niños. Otros factores que reducen el trabajo infantil son: las becas de estudios, la escolarización en escuelas privadas, el número de hermanos y los años de escolaridad de los adultos. En cambio, un mayor consumo no correlaciona con menos horas de trabajo infantil.
Accuracy of enhancement filters in measuring in vitro peri‐implant bone level
Authors: de Azevedo Vaz Sergio Lins , Neves Frederico Sampaio , Figueirêdo Evandro Portela , Haiter‐Neto Francisco , Campos Paulo Sérgio Flores
Published: July 2012

Objectives

To identify the accuracy of enhancement filters of an intraoral phosphor‐plate system for measuring the simulated peri‐implant bone level.

Materials and methods

A total of 20 titanium implants (Titamax®) were placed into six fragments of bovine ribs and defects simulating bone loss were created. Periapical radiographs were taken with a phosphor‐plate system (Vista Scan®) according to the paralleling standard technique, and nine enhancement filters were applied: fine, caries 1, caries 2, perio, endo, noise reduction, invert, emboss, and sculpture. The Friedman test compared the radiographic measurements of the defects to those obtained on the bovine ribs with a digital caliper. Intra‐ and interobserver agreement was calculated with the intra‐class correlation coefficient (ICC).

Results

The ICC values showed excellent intra‐ and interobserver agreement. The caries1, caries2, endo, and perio filters resulted on measurements statistically different from both the original images and the measurements of the digital caliper (P < 0.05). The other filters did not show statistically significant differences from the original images nor from the measurements of the digital caliper.

Conclusion

In addition to the original images, the fine and emboss filters resulted on the most precise measures. The caries1, caries2, endo, and perio filters were the less accurate for measuring the peri‐implant bone level.
Tight junction properties change during epidermis development
Authors: Celli Anna , Zhai Yongjiao , Jiang Yan J , Crumrine Debbie , Elias Peter M , Feingold Kenneth R , Mauro Theodora M
Published: July 2012

In terrestrial animals, the epidermal barrier transitions from covering an organism suspended in a liquid environment in utero, to protecting a terrestrial animal postnatally from air and environmental exposure. Tight junctions (TJ) are essential for establishing the epidermal permeability barrier during embryonic development and modulate normal epidermal development and barrier functions postnatally. We now report that TJ function, as well as claudin‐1 and occludin expression, change in parallel during late epidermal development. Specifically, TJ block the paracellular movement of Lanthanum (La3+) early in rat in vivo prenatal epidermal development, at gestational days 18–19, with concurrent upregulation of claudin‐1 and occludin. TJ then become more permeable to ions and water as the fetus approaches parturition, concomitant with development of the lipid epidermal permeability barrier, at days 20–21. This sequence is recapitulated in cultured human epidermal equivalents (HEE), as assessed both by ultrastructural studies comparing permeation of large and small molecules and by the standard electrophysiologic parameter of resistance (R), suggesting further that this pattern of development is intrinsic to mammalian epidermal development. These findings demonstrate that the role of TJ changes during epidermal development, and further suggest that the TJ‐based and lipid‐based epidermal permeability barriers are interdependent.
Low tolerance of New Caledonian secondary forest species to savanna fires
Authors: Ibanez Thomas , Curt Thomas , Hely Christelle
Published: July 2012

Questions

How do early secondary successional forest species that grow in savannas differ in their tolerance to surface fires? What are the consequences of these fire tolerances for savanna–forest dynamics and landscape management?

Location

Anthropogenic savannas in the New Caledonian biodiversity hotspot (SW Pacific).

Methods

We estimated the range of fire intensity in New Caledonian savannas using field survey of fuels and the BehavePlus fire behaviour model. Within the predicted range of fire line intensity, we assessed theoretical fire injury to the cambium and crown for 11 species: the dominant tree of New Caledonian savannas (Melaleuca quinquenervia) and early secondary successional forest species. Using empirical models, for each species we estimated cambium damage from depth of necrosis (as a function of fire line intensity and fire residence time) and bark thickness, and crown damage from scorch height (as a function of fire line intensity) and tree height. We compared bark thickness and tree height increment patterns among species as well as species potential fire tolerance.

Results

The 11 species had very contrasting capacity to avoid fire injury to the bole cambium due to differences in bark investment patterns, but were all very exposed to scorching and crown injury. Overall, most of sampled individuals are likely top‐killed by low intensity fires (<1000 kW·m−1), which are frequent according to our simulations.

Conclusions

The early secondary successional forest species growing in New Caledonian savannas are poorly adapted to fire, in comparison with literature on worldwide trees in savannas. As a result, their juveniles are unlikely to reach adult size in fire‐prone areas. Restoration using the most fire‐tolerant species and fire prevention may be complementary strategies to manage such tropical landscapes in order to conserve biodiversity and ecosystem services.
Using CT or MRI to assess locoregional spread to determine the radiotherapy target of hypopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: WU Zheng , DENG Xue‐Ying , ZENG Rui‐Fang , SU Yong , GU Mo‐Fa , ZHANG Yun , XIE Chuan‐Miao , ZHENG Lie
Published: July 2012

Aim:  To identify the locoregional extension of hypopharyngeal carcinoma (HPC), particularly the invasion of the nasopharynx and skull base, and metastasis of level VI and retropharyngeal lymph node (RPLN) by investigating computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance (MR) images; together with the radiotherapy target of HPC.

Methods:  CT and MR images of 186 patients with pathologically confirmed HPC between Aug 2000 and Dec 2010 were analyzed retrospectively. We used the χ2 test and logistic regression to analyze local invasion and regional spread and to determine their relationships.

Results:  Of the 186 patients, there was only one case of invasion of the nasopharynx without skull base involvement. The rate of regional node metastasis was 79%. There was no significant relationship between T stage and lymph node metastasis (P = 0.1). Level IV metastasis (P = 0.001), RPLN metastasis (P = 0.041) and esophageal invasion (P = 0.003) were significantly correlated with level VI metastasis. Primary tumor subsite (P = 0.024), bilateral cervical node metastasis (P < 0.001) and size of cervical nodes (P = 0.01) significantly contributed to the occurrence of RPLN metastasis.

Conclusion:  The locoregional spread of HPC occurs via certain routes. It is potentially unnecessary to routinely and prophylactically irradiate the nasopharynx and skull base. Patients with early stage HPC should receive bilateral cervical prophylactic irradiation. The decision regarding the administration of prophylactic irradiation to the level VI and RPLN areas should be according to the relative risk factors.
Prognostic factors and clinical outcomes in synovial sarcoma of the extremities
Authors: Wisanuyotin Taweechok , Radapat Krisana , Sirichativapee Winai , Paholpak Permsak , Kosuwon Weerachai , Sumnanoont Chat , Jeeravipoolvarn Polasak
Published: July 2012

Aims

To evaluate the clinical outcomes and identify which prognostic factors influence the clinical outcomes of synovial sarcoma patients at a tertiary university hospital in Thailand.

Methods

Patients with synovial sarcoma of the extremities between 1997 and 2007 were reviewed from the database of the Musculoskeletal Oncology Unit, Srinagarind Hospital, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand.

Results

Of 41 patients, 23 males (56%) and 18 females (44%) with a median age of 39 (range, 1–78 years), 18 (44%) had metastasis at the first diagnosis and 23 (56%) had only a localized tumor. The 5‐year overall survival of all the patients was 36%; 64% in patients with localized disease and 0% in patients with metastasis at first diagnosis. In all 23 patients (56%) died of the disease at a median duration of 11 months (range 3–47 months). All patients with metastases died at a median 9 months (range 1–41 months). Metastasis at first diagnosis influenced overall survival for patients with synovial sarcoma (P < 0.001). According to a univariate analysis, the significant adverse factors were biphasic histological subtype and an inadequate surgical margin of the definitive surgery (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Synovial sarcoma is still a disease with a poor prognosis. Distant metastasis at initial diagnosis is a significant adverse prognostic factor for overall survival. A biphasic histological subtype and an inadequate surgical margin are significant adverse prognostic factors in localized synovial sarcoma.
Changes in Stress and Coping During Late Childhood and Preadolescence
Authors: Rew Lynn , Principe Connor , Hannah Dana
Published: July 2012

PROBLEM: Little is known about what produces stress in preadolescents.

METHODS: Secondary data analysis using hierarchical linear modeling was performed to determine how stressors and coping changed over time in 1,568 preadolescents (51% Hispanic) in 28 public schools.

FINDINGS: Over time, participants experienced most stressors less intensely, but intensity varied by gender. Children in lower grades and girls found that coping strategies used were more effective compared with those in upper grades or boys. There were several interactions of grade level, sex, and ethnicity.

CONCLUSION: Changes in stress and coping among preadolescents have implications for nurses concerned with mental health.
Delivery of dsRNA for RNAi in insects: an overview and future directions
Authors: Yu Na , Christiaens Olivier , Liu Jisheng , Niu Jinzhi , Cappelle Kaat , Caccia Silvia , Huvenne Hanneke , Smagghe Guy
Published: July 2012

Abstract  RNA interference (RNAi) refers to the process of exogenous double‐stranded RNA (dsRNA) silencing the complementary endogenous messenger RNA. RNAi has been widely used in entomological research for functional genomics in a variety of insects and its potential for RNAi‐based pest control has been increasingly emphasized mainly because of its high specificity. This review focuses on the approaches of introducing dsRNA into insect cells or insect bodies to induce effective RNAi. The three most common delivery methods, namely, microinjection, ingestion, and soaking, are illustrated in details and their advantages and limitations are summarized for purpose of feasible RNAi research. In this review, we also briefly introduce the two possible dsRNA uptake machineries, other dsRNA delivery methods and the history of RNAi in entomology. Factors that influence the specificity and efficiency of RNAi such as transfection reagents, selection of dsRNA region, length, and stability of dsRNA in RNAi research are discussed for further studies.
A LARGE‐SCALE EXPERIMENTAL COMPARISON OF THE TETRAD AND TRIANGLE TESTS IN CHILDREN
Authors: GARCIA KAREN , ENNIS JOHN M. , PRINYAWIWATKUL WITOON
Published: July 2012

Interest in the Tetrad test as an alternative to the Triangle test is growing as theoretical results indicate that the Tetrad test has relatively high power for an unspecified method. But a large‐scale experimental comparison of the Tetrad test with the Triangle test for the same stimuli has not yet appeared in the sensory literature. In this paper, we report results from such a large scale comparison, with the addition that the testing was conducted with children. This comparison is important as the presence of a fourth stimulus in the Tetrad test could lead to reduced effect sizes due to sensory fatigue, adaptation and memory effects. Using Thurstonian analysis, we quantify this reduction in effect size and we apply a recently developed guideline to show that the Tetrad test remains more powerful than the Triangle test in this setting, even with the reduction in effect size.

PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS

This paper demonstrates that the Tetrad test is a superior alternative to the Triangle test in at least one practical setting. More generally, this paper serves as a template for sensory researchers who might replace Triangle testing with Tetrad testing within their discrimination testing programs. Using the analytic methods outlined in this paper, researchers can quantify the increase in perceptual noise caused by the addition of a fourth stimulus.
Muscle mass and peripheral fatigue: a potential role for afferent feedback?
Authors: Rossman M. J. , Venturelli M. , McDaniel J. , Amann M. , Richardson R. S.
Published: July 2012

Aim

The voluntary termination of exercise has been hypothesized to occur at a sensory tolerance limit, which is affected by feedback from group III and IV muscle afferents, and is associated with a specific level of peripheral quadriceps fatigue during whole body cycling. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to reduce the amount of muscle mass engaged during dynamic leg exercise to constrain the source of muscle afferent feedback to the central nervous system (CNS) and examine the effect on peripheral quadriceps fatigue.

Method

Eight young males performed exhaustive large (cycling – BIKE) and small (knee extensor – KE) muscle mass dynamic exercise at 85% of the modality‐specific maximal workload. Pre‐ vs. post‐exercise maximal voluntary contractions (MVC) and supramaximal magnetic femoral nerve stimulation (Qtw,pot) were used to quantify peripheral quadriceps fatigue.

Result

Significant quadriceps fatigue was evident following both exercise trials; however, the exercise‐induced changes in MVC (−28 ± 1% vs. −16 ± 2%) and Qtw,pot (−53 ± 2% vs. −34 ± 2%) were far greater following KE compared to BIKE exercise, respectively. The greater degree of quadriceps fatigue following KE exercise was in proportion to the greater exercise time (9.1 ± 0.4 vs. 6.3 ± 0.5 min, P < 0.05), suggestive of a similar rate of peripheral fatigue development.

Conclusion

These data suggest that when the source of skeletal muscle afferent feedback is confined to a small muscle mass, the CNS tolerates a greater magnitude of peripheral fatigue and likely a greater intramuscular metabolic disturbance. An important implication of this finding is that the adoption of small muscle mass exercise may facilitate greater exercise‐induced muscular adaptation.
A taxonomic review of the tribe Physorhinini Candèze, 1895 (Coleoptera, Elateridae) in Korea, with description of female of Anchastelater shaanxiensis Schimmel, 2007
Authors: Han Taeman , Lee Hodan , Lee Hae Ju , Park Hae Chul , Lee Seunghwan , Lee Young Bo
Published: July 2012

We reviewed the Korean species belonging to the tribe Physorhinini of the subfamily Elaterinae. Anchastelater shaanxiensis Schimmel, 2007 is recorded for the first time in Korea. We provide diagnosis criteria for the species of the tribe Physorhinini and of the genus Anchastelater, as well as a description, and illustrations of the female A. shaanxiensis. The first Korean record of Physorhinini based on the male Anchastus aquilis[!] Candèze, 1873 was found to be a misidentification of Neopsephus sp. in the tribe Dicrepidiini and it is therefore proposed to exclude from the Korean fauna.
Geochemical Characteristics and Metallogenesis of the Qingkuangshan Ni‐Cu‐PGE Mineralized Mafic‐Ultramafic Intrusion in Huili County, Sichuan Province, SW China
Authors: Feilin ZHU , Yan TAO , Ruizhong HU , Yansheng MA
Published: July 2012

The Qingkuangshan Ni‐Cu‐PGE deposit, located in the Xiaoguanhe region of Huili County, Sichuan Province, is one of several Ni‐Cu‐PGE deposits in the Emeishan Large Igneous Province (ELIP). The ore‐bearing intrusion is a mafic‐ultramafic body. This paper reports major elements, trace elements and platinum‐group elements in different types of rocks and sulfide‐mineralized samples in the intrusion. These data are used to evaluate the source mantle characteristics, the degree of mantle partial melting, the composition of parental magma and the ore‐forming processes. The results show that Qingkuangshan intrusion is part of the ELIP. The rocks have trace element ratios similar to the coeval Emeishan basalts. The primitive mantle‐normalized patterns of Ni‐Cu‐PGE have positive slopes, and the ratios of Pd/Ir are lower than 22. The PGE compositions of sulfide ores and associated rocks are characterized by Ru depletion. The PGE contents in bulk sulfides are slightly depleted relative to Ni and Cu, which is similar to the Yangliuping Ni‐Cu‐PGE deposit. The composition of the parental magma for the intrusion is estimated to contain about 14.65 wt% MgO, 48.66 wt% SiO2 and 15.48 wt% FeOt, and the degree of mantle partial melting is estimated to be about 20%. In comparison with other typical Ni‐Cu‐PGE deposits in the ELIP, the Qingkuangshan Ni‐Cu‐PGE deposit has lower PGE contents than the Jinbaoshan PGE deposit, but has higher PGE contents than the Limahe and Baimazhai Ni‐Cu deposit, and has similar PGE contents to the Yangliuping Ni‐Cu‐PGE deposit. The moderate PGE depletions in the bulk sulfide of the Qingkuanghan deposit suggest that the parental magma of the host intrusion may have undergone minor sulfide segregation at depth. The mixing calculations suggests that an average of 10% crustal contamination in the magma, which may have been the main cause of sulfide saturation in the magma. We propose that sulfide segregation from a moderately PGE depleted magma took place prior to magma emplacement at Qingkuangshan, that small amounts of immiscible sulfide droplets and olivine and chromite crystals were suspended in the ascending magma, and that the suspended materials settled down when the magma passed trough the Qingkuangshan conduit. The Qingkuangshan sulfide‐bearing intrusion is interpreted to a feeder of Emeishan flood basalts in the region.
Clinical characteristics of 150 consecutive fibromyalgia patients attending an Australian public hospital clinic
Authors: Guymer Emma K. , Maruff Paul , Littlejohn Geoffrey O.
Published: July 2012

Aim

To describe clinical characteristics of fibromyalgia in an Australian population.

Method

Data was collected from 150 consecutive patients with clinical features of fibromyalgia seen in an Australian public hospital clinic. Demographic information and clinical characteristics were recorded. Significant correlations between clinical characteristics were identified, then used in multiple regression analyses to identify factors influencing outcome in physical function, pain, fatigue and sleep disturbance. Clinical features in groups who were or were not using different treatment strategies were compared.

Results

Most patients were female and Caucasian. The majority reported a recognizable trigger factor and many had associated conditions, most commonly headache and irritable bowel syndrome. Physical function was significantly accounted for by pain levels (P = 0.001); pain score was significantly predicted by tenderness (P = 0.002) and physical function level (P = 0.001); fatigue levels were significantly influenced by age (P = 0.007) and sleep disturbance (P < 0.001), and sleep disturbance was significantly predicted by fatigue (P < 0.001). Just over one‐third (34%) of patients were using fibromyalgia medications (low‐dose tricyclic antidepressant, pregabalin or duloxetine); however, they had less anxiety (P = 0.006) and better reported physical function (P = 0.04) than those who were not. Less than half (43.6%) of the patients were regularly exercising; however, they had reduced overall illness impact scores (P = 0.004), better physical function (P = 0.01) and less fatigue (P = 0.03), anxiety (P = 0.02) and depressive features (P = 0.008) than non‐exercisers.

Conclusion

Baseline clinical characteristics in this group were comparable to other study populations. The use of management modalities with proven benefit in fibromyalgia was limited; however, those patients who were engaged in regular exercise or using medication had better self‐reported outcome measures than those who were not.
Peak Studio: a tool for the visualization and analysis of fragment analysis files
Authors: McCafferty Jonathan , Reid Robert , Spencer Melanie , Hamp Timothy , Fodor Anthony
Published: July 2012

While emerging technologies such as next‐generation sequencing are increasingly important tools for the analysis of metagenomic communities, molecular fingerprinting techniques such as automated ribosomal intergenic spacer analysis (ARISA) and terminal restriction fragment length polymorphisms (T‐RFLP) remain in use due to their rapid speed and low cost. Peak Studio is a java‐based graphical user interface (GUI) designed for the visualization and analysis of fragment analysis (FSA) files generated by the Applied Biosystems capillary electrophoresis instrument. Specifically designed for ARISA and T‐RFLP experiments, Peak Studio provides the user the ability to freely adjust the parameters of a peak‐calling algorithm and immediately see the implications for downstream clustering by principal component analysis. Peak Studio is fully open‐source and, unlike proprietary solutions, can be deployed on any computer running Windows, OS X or Linux. Peak Studio allows data to be saved in multiple formats and can serve as a pre‐processing suite that prepares data for statistical analysis in programs such as SAS or R.
Psychological effects of dance‐based group exergaming in obese adolescents
Authors: Wagener T. L. , Fedele D. A. , Mignogna M. R. , Hester C. N. , Gillaspy S. R.
Published: July 2012

Background

In order to attract obese adolescents who are often reluctant to engage in traditional exercise, new forms of physical activity are needed.

Objectives

The purpose of the study was to investigate the impact of dance‐based exergaming on a diverse sample of obese adolescents' perceived competence to exercise, psychological adjustment and body mass index (BMI).

Methods

A diverse sample of 40 obese adolescents was randomized to either a 10‐week group dance‐based exergaming programme or a wait‐list control condition. Baseline and follow‐up measures included adolescent self‐reported psychological adjustment and perceived competence to exercise, and maternal report of adolescent psychological adjustment and anthropometric measures.

Results

Compared with controls, participants in the dance‐based exergaming condition significantly increased in self‐reported perceived competence to exercise regularly and reported significant improvement in relations with parents from baseline to end‐of‐treatment. Maternal report of adolescent externalizing and internalizing symptomatology also decreased from baseline to end‐of‐treatment. No pre‐post differences in BMI were seen within or between conditions.

Conclusions

Results support the positive impact of dance‐based exergaming on obese adolescents' psychological functioning and perceived competence to continue exercise.
ENSO Drove 2500-Year Collapse of Eastern Pacific Coral Reefs
Authors: Toth Lauren T. , Aronson Richard B. , Vollmer Steven V. , Hobbs Jennifer W. , Urrego Dunia H. , Cheng Hai , Enochs Ian C. , Combosch David J. , van Woesik Robert , Macintyre Ian G.
Published: July 2012

A Long Collapse

Coral reefs are threatened by global warming and ocean acidification, and so it is important to understand better how and why environmental changes have affected them in the past.Tothet al.(p.81) present a 6000-year-long record of coral reefs off the coast of Panama, Central America. The reefs effectively stopped growing for approximately 2600 years, beginning around 4000 years ago. This collapse of the coral reef system was probably caused by increased variability of ENSO, the El Nino–Southern Oscillation. If the strength or frequency of ENSO were to increase, the viability of these and other reef systems in the Pacific could be put further at risk.
A Mitochondrial Mystery, Solved
Authors: Divakaruni Ajit S. , Murphy Anne N.
Published: July 2012

A long-awaited transporter that moves pyruvate into mitochondria has been identified.
Prominent Turkish Academic Who Advocated Secular Reforms Arrested
Authors: Bhattacharjee Yudhijit
Published: July 2012

The former head of Turkey's Council of Higher Education, Kemal Gürüz, has been arrested as part of an inquiry by Turkey's conservative government into what's known as the "postmodern coup" of 1997.
Eccentric strengthening effect of hip-adductor training with elastic bands in soccer players: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Jensen Jesper , Hölmich Per , Bandholm Thomas , Zebis Mette K , Andersen Lars L , Thorborg Kristian
Published: July 2012

Background

Soccer players with weak hip-adductor muscles are at increased risk of sustaining groin injuries. Therefore, a simple hip-adductor strengthening programme for prevention of groin injuries is needed.

Objective

We aimed to investigate the effect of an 8-week hip-adductor strengthening programme, including one hip-adduction exercise, on eccentric and isometric hip-adduction strength, using elastic bands as external load.

Methods

Thirty-four healthy, sub-elite soccer players, mean (±SD) age of 22.1 (±3.3) years, were randomised to either training or control. During the mid-season break, the training group performed 8 weeks of supervised, progressive hip-adduction strength training using elastic bands. The participants performed two training sessions per week (weeks 1–2) with 3×15 repetition maximum loading (RM), three training sessions per week (weeks 3–6) with 3×10 RM and three training sessions per week (weeks 7–8) with 3×8 RM. Eccentric hip-adduction (EHAD), isometric hip-adduction (IHAD) and isometric hip-abduction (IHAB) strength, and the IHAD/IHAB ratio were measured assessor-blinded preintervention and postintervention, using reliable hand-held dynamometry procedures.

Results

In the training group, EHAD strength increased by 30% (p<0.001). In the control group, EHAD strength increased by 17% (p<0.001), but the increase was significantly larger in the training group compared with the control group (p=0.044). No other significant between-group strength-differences in IHAD, IHAB or the IHAD/IHAB ratio existed (p>0.05).

Conclusions

8 weeks of hip-adduction strength training, using elastic bands, induce a relevant increase in eccentric hip-adduction strength in soccer players, and thus may have implications as a promising approach towards prevention of groin injuries in soccer.
O-013 The pulsar vascular aneurysm neck reconstruction device for bifurcation aneurysms: in vitro study and first clinical experience: Abstract O-013 Figure 1
Authors: Tateshima S , Turk A , Ceratto R , Ferrario A , Lylyk P
Published: July 2012

Introduction

We present the in vitro and first clinical results of a novel aneurysm neck reconstruction device specifically designed to treat bifurcation aneurysms.

Method

The Pulsar Vascular Aneurysm Neck Reconstruction Device (ANRD) is a T-shaped, self-expanding, permanent implant made of nitinol with a uniquely open architecture that maintains the luminal patency of two bifurcation branches while holding a coil mass in place in the aneurysm. Utilizing in vitro aneurysm models, the following design aspects of the ANRD were optimized prior to first-in-man (FIM) use: number of nitinol struts, location of radiopaque markers, ability to position and reposition the device, pushability and microcatheter compatibility. Once the design of the ANRD was optimized and the safe delivery technique was established, the first clinical case was performed. Inclusion criteria for FIM cases includes unruptured, wide-necked intracranial aneurysms located at the basilar tip or carotid terminus with a diameter of the basilar or carotid artery appropriate for the device sizes available. FIM candidate cases were reviewed and approved by scientific advisory board members as well as the operator prior to the procedure. Clinical use of the ANRD was approved on a case-by-case basis.

Results

Under fluoroscopic guidance, ANRDs of various sizes and designs were deployed in two basilar tip aneurysm models. The final version of the ANRD could be safely deployed in the models and the operator could steer the T-shaped device into both posterior cerebral arteries (PCAs). Following extensive in vitro testing and animal studies, the ANRD was successfully deployed in the first clinical cases. The FIM case was a female with an incidental basilar tip aneurysm, projecting anteriorly, measuring 10.3 mm in the largest diameter and 7.3 mm in the neck. Both PCAs were incorporated in the base of the aneurysm. One ANRD was delivered via a Marksman microcatheter and successfully placed at the neck of the basilar tip aneurysm. Coiling procedure was performed immediately after the placement of the ANRD. Immediate post coiling angiogram showed the tight packing of the aneurysm and the patency of both PCAs. The ANRD was stable during the coiling procedure without any radiographic signs of proximal migration by the pressure of the coil mass.

Conclusion

The Pulsar Vascular ANRD provides excellent support to achieve tight coil packing in bifurcation wide-necked aneurysms. The FIM experience demonstrates the safety and feasibility of the ANRD concept. Results in the first group of patients including follow-up will be presented.

Competing interests

S Tateshima: Pulsar Vascular. A Turk: Pular Vascular. R Ceratto: None. A Ferrario: None. P Lylyk: None.

Abstract O-013 Figure 1
O-016 Radiation exposure during cerebral angiography and neuroembolization in children: analysis of 357 consecutive cases
Authors: Lin N , Manchester J , Smith E , Scott M , Orbach D
Published: July 2012

Introduction/Purpose

Catheter-based cerebral angiography and embolization are important tools in managing cerebrovascular diseases in the pediatric population. We concurrently present data on the safety of pediatric neurointervention, demonstrating an overall low complication rate associated with such procedures in children, regardless of age group. However, radiation exposure during neurointerventional procedures in the pediatric population is of particular importance and merits dedicated study.

Materials and Methods

Records for all pediatric patients who underwent cerebral angiography and/or neuroembolization from 2007 through 2009 were retrospectively reviewed. Radiation skin entry dose data were obtained from fluoroscopic suites equipped with built-in cumulative dose (air kerma) and dose-area-product (DAP) measurement capability.

Results

Of the 357 consecutive procedures performed from 2007 through 2009, 214 were diagnostic angiograms and 143 involved embolization. Mean age was 9.5 years (range: 4 days to 18 years), and 193 were female. The interventional procedures included intracranial (77), extracranial (57), and spinal (9) embolizations. The pathology requiring neurointervention included intracranial arteriovenous malformation (AVM, 15), spinal AVM (8), aneurysms (15), Vein of Galen Malformation (VOGM, 19), intracranial arteriovenous fistula (AVF, 21), facial and extracranial AVM (46), tumor (11), stroke (2), and others (6). Overall, the observed cumulative dose and DAP correlated well (r=0.87). The average cumulative skin entry dose for the cohort was 365.9 mGy (range: 21–2707 mGy). Radiation exposure during neurointervention was significantly higher than during diagnostic angiography (566.3 and 191.0 mGy, respectively, p<0.001). Patients with spinal AVM (939.8 mGy), aneurysms (777.5 mGy), and AVF (730.5 mGy) received higher doses of radiation. During the mean follow-up period of 2.1 years, one short-term complication (transient hair loss) related to radiation was noted.

Conclusion

Relative to previous reports related to neurointerventions in adults and to complex, non-neuro pediatric interventions, radiation exposure during cerebral angiography and embolization was moderate, and the short-term risk associated with radiation was low. It will be of importance, going forward, to track the long-term effects of radiation exposure related to pediatric neurointerventions in this cohort, requiring conversion of skin entry doses to brain organ dose.

Competing interests

None.
P-036 Analysis of events reported in the MAUDE database comparing neuroform, enterprise, and pipeline devices
Authors: Klucznik R
Published: July 2012

Introduction/Purpose

We report on data in the Manufacturer and User Facility Device Experience (MAUDE) database for Neuroform (Boston Scientific), Enterprise (Cordis), and Pipeline (Covidien) devices with a focus on a 6-month period.

Materials and Methods

All events reported from May 31, 2011 to December 30, 2011 in the MAUDE database were collected for Neuroform, Enterprise, and Pipeline devices. Results were analyzed for extent of injuries and device malfunctions reported.

Results

In summary, the combined Neuroform and Enterprise MAUDE reports showed that there were 73 events reported between May 31 and December 30, 2011. Four deaths were reported during the time period examined (5% of reports); of these, three reports stated that event date was unknown and one was reported as not device-related. SAH developed as a complication during Enterprise-stent assisted embolization of one aneurysm, and the patient subsequently died. Injuries described in the reports included two post-treatment bleeds (2.7% of reports), 10 occlusions (13.7%) and four SAH (5% of reports), one of which was associated with disability and one of which is associated with death of unknown event date. Device malfunctions were indexed in 41% of the reports, including four which were described as catheter or strut separation/breaks (5% of reports), 14 were delivery system failures (19% of reports) and four were fractures (5% of reports). The Pipeline MAUDE reports showed that there were 71 events reported during May 31 to December 30, 2011. Thirteen deaths were reported during the time period examined (18% of reports); eight deaths involved peri-procedural or post-treatment bleeds (62% of reported deaths). Injuries described in the reports include 12 post-treatment bleeds (17% of reports) and four SAHs (6% of reports), all of which are associated with death. The number of device malfunctions reported includes 38 failures to deploy (54% of reports) with associated 29 ballooning procedures (41% of reports) and nine broken push wires (13% of reports).

Conclusion

For the 6-month period examined, events such as death, serious injury, and device malfunctions were reported in the MAUDE database. Even though the total number of reports comparing Neuroform/Enterprise and Pipeline were comparable, number of deaths related to Pipeline were more than three times higher. Due to lack of data regarding total number of patients treated during the time period examined, adverse event occurrence rates across devices cannot be compared. Further data and discussion are warranted to understand these initial observations.

Competing interests

None.
E-023 Interventional approaches to tandem internal carotid artery/middle cerebral artery occlusions treated with carotid angioplasty vs stenting: a case series and discussion: Abstract E-023 Table 1
Authors: Telischak N , Zarzour H , Dinobile D , Frerichs K , Thomas A , Selim M , Reddy A
Published: July 2012

We report on the techniques of simultaneous carotid artery angioplasty and/or stenting with intracranial thrombectomy and/or thrombolysis in the treatment of acute stroke due to tandem ICA/MCA occlusion. A review of the interventional neuroradiology patient database of two major teaching hospitals (Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA) yielded five cases from the past 2 years of treatment of tandem ICA/MCA occlusion. Five patients presented to our hospitals between 12/2008 and 12/2010 (mean age: 65.8, range 48–84 years) with acute stroke (mean NIHSS: 18, range 8–24) and were found to have tandem ICA/MCA occlusion (Abstract E-023 table 1). Definitive interventional neuroradiology treatment (mean time from symptom onset to catheterization: 168 min, range 100–251 min) either treated with carotid artery angioplasty (N=2), or angioplasty and stent placement (N=3) combined with intracranial intra-arterial thrombolysis and/or mechanical clot retrieval. Procedures were technically successful in opening the ICA occlusion in all cases, with variable results in intracranial thrombectomy/thrombolysis ranging from complete revascularization to residual M1 branch MCA occlusion. All patients survived to hospital discharge with residual neurologic deficits. We review treatment options of carotid angioplasty alone vs angioplasty and stent placement, in addition to intracranial thrombolysis and mechanical thrombectomy, and discuss potential pitfalls to these approaches.

Abstract E-023 Table 1

Patient presentation characteristics, success of intervention, and outcomes

PatientTime from symptom onset (hours)Successful ICA revascularizationSuccessful M1 segment revascularizationNIHSS before interventionDischarge statusPatient 15.0YesYes19Inpatient RehabilitationPatient 21.2YesYes22Home with hospicePatient 31.0YesNo17Inpatient RehabilitationPatient 4UnknownYesNo24Home with hospicePatient 51.2YesYes8Inpatient Rehabilitation

Competing interests

None.
E-024 The Mindframe Capture LP 3 mm and 4 mm thrombectomy device. Early clinical results: Abstract E-024 Table 1
Authors: Söderman M , Holmin S , Andersson T , Kuntze Söderqvist Å , Turner R
Published: July 2012

Introduction

Mechanical thrombectomy is effective in restoring blood flow to the brain in patients with occlusion of large intracranial arteries. Most devices require a 0.021 or 0.027 microcatheter. However, in some instances s smaller microcatheter may be advantageous. We here report the early results with the Mindframe Capture LP 3 mm and 4 mm thrombectomy devices, designed to pass through a 0.010 microcatheter.

Material and Methods

16 patients (8M/8F) with large vessel occlusion and sizeable penumbra were admitted with the intention to treat with thrombectomy using either of the 3 mm or 4 mm Mindframe Capture LP devices. Mean NIHSS was 15. Seven had received previous i.v. rTPA.

Technical results

Thrombectomy was unsuccessful because of impossible access in one case, non-embolic occlusion due to vessel dissection in two cases, very old uncooperative patient in one case and device related failure in one case. There were no device related complications. Clinical results are not yet available but will be presented at the meeting.

Conclusion

Mindframe Capture LP 3 mm and 4 mm thrombectomy devices are efficient with a low risk for device related complications.

Abstract E-024 Table 1012a2b3TICI at start16TICI final5118

Competing interests

M Söderman: MINDFRAME INC, Rapid medical. S Holmin: None. T Andersson: MINDFRAME INC, Covidien, Stryker, Rapid Medical. Å Kuntze Söderqvist: None. R Turner: MINDFRAME INC.
E-047 Novel treatment of isolated P1 segment “blister” aneurysm with telescoping stents
Authors: Chang T , Bourgeois A , Kvamme P
Published: July 2012

Purpose

Dissecting posterior cerebral artery aneurysms are rare lesions that pose difficult treatment options. The purpose of this case is to describe the complications of stenting of a posterior cerebral artery dissecting aneurysm, novel treatment of this complication, and outcomes.

Materials and Methods

Case report and retrospective chart review of a 34-year-old female who was transferred to our institution from an outside hospital with a history of subarachnoid hemorrhage. Patient underwent endovascular stenting of a dissecting aneurysm of the P1 segment of the left posterior cerebral artery after the aneurysm failed to improve after 3 months of observation.

Results

Following flow modulation therapy consisting of three Enterprise Vascular Reconstruction devices placed across the aneurysm, initial post treatment angiogram showed excellent modulation of flow within the aneurysm. Patient represented 10 days later with nausea, slurred speech and gait disturbance. CTA showed narrowing of the right P1 segment with possible flow limiting stenosis. MRI showed a new right sided pontine infarct. Patient was treated with Heparin, Angiomax infusion, Rheopro infusion, asparin, and plavix. Symptoms resolved after 1 day of anticoagulation/thrombolytic therapy. Follow-up angiogram showed significant morphologic change at the posterior cerebral artery with straightening of the posterior cerebral artery and kinking of the basilar artery. Our belief is that the radial forces created by the use of multiple stents caused the morphologic changes to the basilar artery and posterior cerebral artery. This morphologic change then damaged the small perforating vessels arising from the basilar artery and resulted in a pontine infarct. Two-year clinical follow-up revealed no persistent neurologic defects with return of the patient to her baseline functional status.

Conclusion

Flow modulation therapy of a dissecting posterior cerebral artery aneurysm by stenting is a valid treatment option. Care must be taken when determining the location and number of stents to be used as increasing radial forces can result in morphologic alteration of the native vessels and, as in this case, infarct. While this patient experienced no lasting deficits, infarcts in this vascular distribution could have the potential for catastrophic effects.

Competing interests

None.
E-050 Stenting after SAMMPRIS: the case for VBI
Authors: Newman B , Khalessi A
Published: July 2012

Intracranial atherosclerotic disease (ICAD) accounts for 10% of ischemic strokes. The Stenting and Aggressive Medical Management for Preventing Recurrent Stroke in Intracranial Stenosis (SAMMPRIS) proposed an expansive indication for intracranial stenting. The study terminated prematurely because aggressive medical management proved superior to percutaneous transluminal angioplasty and stenting with the use of the Wingspan system for secondary prevention of stroke. These results prompted the FDA's Neurological Devices Advisory Committee to consider revoking the Wingspan's humanitarian device exemption. The SAMMPRIS trial, however, did not distinguish PTAS risk profile based on collateral circulation and location of the lesion. We present a case series of patients with vertebrobasilar ischemia and progressive neurological deficits in the setting of an absent collateral circulation and ICAD-induced vertebrobasilar occlusion. We propose PTAS as a unique endovascular solution for lesions proximal to AICA and medical management or stand alone angioplasty for lesions distal to AICA due to risk of perforator stroke. We present three cases of patients with NIHSS > 15 and progressive obtundation with V4 ICAD who experienced dramatic reversal of their symptoms with PTAS. All are mRS 0 at 3 months. All patients were treated awake. We further present a fourth patient with basilar ICAD between the SCA and AICA managed conservatively after an initial decompensation with distal microcatheter access; plaque instability with lesion crossing portended poorly for subsequent PTAS due to perforator and AICA ostia proximity. The fourth patient, who was being managed for secondary stroke prevention analogous to SAMMPRIS, is mRS 0 at 3 months without PTAS. We thus distinguish between secondary stroke prevention and vertebrobasilar ischemia; the case series presents a framework based on location and collateral circulation for post-SAMMPRIS applications for PTAS.

Competing interests

None.
E-052 mechanical thrombectomy of the superior sagittal sinus using the penumbra device for cerebral venous thrombosis: a case report
Authors: Hnenny L , Fiorella D , Kelly M
Published: July 2012

Background

Cerebral venous thrombosis is a potentially devastating condition. Predisposing factors include hypercoagulable state, infection, pregnancy, oral contraceptive use and female sex. Symptoms may include headache, nausea, vomiting, and visual changes. Papilledema, focal neurologic deficits, strokes, and seizures may occur. Treatment consists of systemic anticoagulation and management of the underlying process. Acetazolamide and cerebrospinal fluid diversion are reserved for cases with refractory, severe intracranial hypertension. Recently, neurointerventional techniques have shown promise in the treatment of this condition.

Case report

We report the case of a 47-year-old male who presented with seizures and intracerebral hemorrhage. CT angiography showed near-complete occlusion of the superior sagittal sinus and occlusion of both transverse sinuses. Anticoagulation was initiated, but he continued to have seizures and his level of consciousness deteriorated. He was therefore taken to angiography and mechanical thrombectomy of his sagittal sinus was performed with the Penumbra device (Penumbra Inc., Alameda, California, USA). Flow was markedly improved in the superior sagittal sinus, and he recovered well post-operatively. He was discharged home on antiepileptic medication with no neurologic deficits.

Conclusion

Mechanical thrombectomy is a viable option for revascularization of the dural venous sinuses in the setting of cerebral venous thrombosis.

Competing interests

L Hnenny: None. D Fiorella: Codman and Shurtleff, Covidien ev3, NFocus Medical, Cordis, Micrus Endovascular. M Kelly: None.