bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High Resolution Stratigraphy and Detositional History of the Greenhorn
Regressive Hemicyclothem, Rock Canyon Anticline, Pueblo, Colorado
Authors: Glenister Linda M. , Kauffman Erle G.
Published: May 2015

The Greenhorn Cyclothem has become the model for eustatically-generated, third-order, cyclic sedimentation in Cretaceous epicontinental settings. The Rock Canyon Anticline sequence near Pueblo, Colorado, is the standard reference section for this cyclothem. The Greenhorn transgressive hemicyclothem (including the Muddy Sandstone, Mowry Shale, Graneros Shale, and the Greenhorn Formation through the middle Bridge Creek Limestone Member) has been the subject of detailed stratigraphic and paleontologic study for many years. In contrast, the Greenhorn regressive hemicyclothem (including the upper Bridge Creek Limestone Member, Greenhorn Formation, and the Fairport Shale, Blue Hill Shale, and Codell Sandstone Members of the Carlile shale) has received only general stratigraphic study. In this paper, high-resolution lithostratigraphic, geochemical, event-stratigraphic, and paleobiologic data for the Greenhorn regressive hemicyclothem are presented and analyzed in terms of facies and depositional history. The regressive sequence at Pueblo is nearly complete, and in general displays a graded, upward-coarsening suite of facies cut by rare disconformities. Cyclically bedded pelagic carbonates (Bridge Creek Limestone Member) grade upward through chalky and calcareous shales (Fairport Member) to dark non-calcareous shales becoming more silty and sandy upward (Blue Hill Shale Member), and the sequence terminates in lower, middle, and upper shoreface sands of the Codell Sandstone Member. The top of the cyclothem is truncated on middle-upper shoreface sandstones of the Codell by a regional transgressive unconformity at the base of the Niobrara Cyclothem. A second regional disconfor-mity may occur at the Fairport - Blue Hill member contact. Although the Greenhorn regressive facies sequence generally mirrors that of the transgression (the symmetrical cyclothem model), significant differences were recorded in this study which suggest that the Western Interior Basin was tectonically passive during eustatic fall and regional regression; subsidence did not outstrip or equal sedimentation rates and the basin filled; shallow water environments predominated. Thus, the regressive sequence of the Greenhorn Cyclothem is coarser-grained, more bioturbated, less laminated, and contains lower percentages of organic carbon than equivalent transgressive facies. Greater current circulation and higher levels of benthic oxygenation are implied during regression. Volcanic ash (bentonite) beds are extremely common in transgressive facies, and comparatively rare in regressive facies; this suggests a major slowdown in tectonism and associated volcanism during eustatic fall and regional regression. The number and extent of disconformities cutting the regressive sequence is far less than during either the Greenhorn or the Niobrara transgression; eustatic fall and regression were more continuous than the highly punctuated transgressive events.
Behavior of Interfaces between Granular Soil and Structure: A State-of-the-art Review
Authors: Li Yao-Kun , Han Xiao-Lei , Ji Jing , Fu Dong-Long , Qiu Yan-Kun , Dai Bai-Cheng , Lin Chao
Published: May 2015

A state-of-the-art review of the behavior of interfaces between granular materials and solid structural components is presented. The review includes both the experimental and theoretical researches on the interfaces between soils and steel, as well as those between soils and concrete. Development of constitutive relations of such interfaces is also summarized. Furthermore, numerical techniques, both the Finite Element Method and the Discrete Element Method (DEM), to simulate the interface behaviors are stated. Aspects for future development in this area are also included.
Efficacy of Percutaneous Vertebroplasty in the Treatment of Osteoporotic Vertebral Compression Fractures with Intravertebral Cleft
Authors: Nakamae Toshio , Fujimoto Yoshinori , Yamada Kiyotaka , Hashimoto Takashi , Olmarker Kjell
Published: May 2015

Intravertebral cleft (IVC) is frequently observed in patients with painful osteoporotic vertebral compression fracture (OVCF). Some studies reported the usefulness of percutaneous vertebroplasty (PVP) for treating OVCF with IVC. However, systematic studies are scarce, and their results are conflicting. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical and radiographic results of PVP in the treatment of painful OVCF with IVC. Two hundred ninety-one patients with OVCF with IVC underwent PVP. Back pain was measured using a visual analog scale (VAS), and physical disability was assessed using the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI). Three radiological parameters were assessed: the local kyphotic angle, percentage spinal canal cross-sectional area of compromise, and intravertebral instability of the affected vertebra. The mean follow-up period was 28 months. The mean values for the VAS and ODI were 8.4 and 60.0%, respectively, before PVP, versus 3.9 and 35.4%, respectively, at the final follow-up. The average local kyphotic angle, percentage spinal canal cross-sectional area of compromise, and intravertebral instability were 10.5°, 17.9% and 6.1°, respectively, before PVP and 8.1°, 15.2%, and 0.8°, respectively, at the final follow-up. There were no neurological or systemic complications due to cement leakage. PVP is an effective and safe intervention for treating OVCF with IVC.
Excellent Functionality Despite Clinico-Radiological Deformity in Osteomyelitis Variolosa - A Case Report
Authors: Mugalur Aakash , Shahane Sunil M , Samant Ashwin , Pathak Aditya C , Reddy Rajeev
Published: May 2015

Despite the eradication of smallpox from the world in 1980 the osteo-articular sequelae of smallpox are still occasionally noticed in previously endemic areas. The sequelae of osteomyelitis variolosa may raise a diagnostic challenge to the untrained eyes of the surgeon. We present a case of “osteomyelitis variolosa” in a 70 years old patient. The patient had bilateral dislocation of the elbow joint with multidirectional instability. There was distortion of the articular surfaces and ankylosis of the bilateral proximal radio-ulnar joint. Hypoplasia of the right ulna with short fourth and fifth metacarpals of the left hand and hypoplasia of right fourth metacarpal with cortical thickening was noted radiologically. The patient had minimal disability of his elbows despite the striking radiological abnormality and was functionally independent.
Complications and Predictors of Need for Return to the Operating Room in the Treatment of Supracondylar Humerus Fractures in Children
Authors: Oetgen Matthew E , Mirick Gudrun E , Atwater Lara , Lovejoy John F
Published: May 2015

Supracondylar humerus fractures are common pediatric injuries. Little is known about the risk factors for repeat operative procedures. A retrospective chart review of 709 patients treated for a displaced supracondylar humerus fracture was performed to identify risk factors for return to the operating room during the initial post-operative period. Deviations of routine fracture care were recorded and complication rates were compared between Gartland type 2 and 3 fractures using logistic regression. Type 3 fractures were found to have a higher complication rate, and, specifically, more peri-operative nerve palsies, more likely to need to return to the operating room for hardware removal, to lose fracture reduction, and require a return to the operating room for any reason. Five risk factors which may require returning to the operating room were identified: younger patient age, left sided fractures, type 3 fractures, peri-operative nerve palsy, and post-operative infection. In conclusion, Gartland type 3 supracondylar humerus fractures are associated with more complications then type 2 fractures. Risk factors for the need to return to the operating room in the post-operative period include: younger patient age, left sided fractures, type 3 fractures, peri-operative nerve palsy, and post-operative infection. Patients with these risk factors should be considered at risk for return to the OR and fracture fixation and follow up protocols should be adjusted for this risk.

Level of Evidence :

Prognostic Study, Level II.
Lower Dislocation Rate Following Total Hip Arthroplasty via Direct Anterior Approach than via Posterior Approach: Five-Year-Average Follow-Up Results
Authors: Tsukada Sachiyuki , Wakui Motohiro
Published: May 2015

Objective:

The aim of the study was to compare the dislocation rate between total hip arthroplasty (THA)viadirect anterior approach (DAA) andviaposterior approach (PA).

Methods:

We compared a consecutive series of 139 THAsviaDAA with 177 THAsviaPA. All study patients received ceramic-on-ceramic bearing surfaces and similar uncemented prostheses. Dislocation-free survival after THA was estimated using the Kaplan–Meier survival method and compared between groups using the log-rank test.

Results:

In the DAA group, none of 139 hips experienced dislocations in five-year-average follow-up. In the PA group, seven hips experienced dislocations among 177 hips (4 %). The dislocation was significantly less in the DAA group compared to the PA group (p = 0.033).

Conclusion:

The dislocation rate of THAviaDAA was significantly less than that of THAviaPA.
10-Year Survival of Acetabular Reinforcement Rings/Cages for Complex Hip Arthroplasty
Authors: Ewers Alexander , Spross Christian , Ebneter Lukas , Külling Fabrice , Giesinger Karlmeinrad , Zdravkovic Vilijam , Erhardt Johannes
Published: May 2015

Introduction :

Acetabular reinforcement rings/ cages (AR) are commonly used for reconstruction of bone defects in complex hip arthroplasty. The aim of this study was to retrospectively investigate the 10-year survival rate of Ganz reinforcement rings and Burch-Schneider cages used in a single institution.

Material and Methods :

Between September 1999 and June 2002 all ARs, implanted in one institution, were identified. All patients had regular clinical and radiographic follow-up and were included in this study. Their prospectively collected clinical and radiographic data was retrospectively analyzed. In case of death before the 10-year follow-up examination, patient’s families or their general practitioner was contacted by telephone. The main outcome measures were survival of the ARs and kind of revision surgery.

Results :

The 10-year survival rate was 77.7%. At 10-year follow-up, 5/60 (8,3%) patients could not be located and had to be excluded therefore. 27/55 (49,1%) were dead, whereof 22 had no revision of the ARs before death (after a mean of 66 months; range: 0 - 123). Of the remaining 28/55 (50,9%) patients, 23 patients (24 ARs) had no revision of the ARs.

Conclusion :

Despite the high mortality rate of this study’s collective, ARs for complex primary or revision total hip arthroplasty provided predictable long term results.

Level of Evidence :

Clinical investigation.
Evaluation of an Image-Based Tool to Examine the Effect of Fracture Alignment and Joint Congruency on Outcomes after Wrist Fracture
Authors: Lalone Emily A , Grewal Ruby , King Graham W , MacDermid Joy C
Published: May 2015

Some mal-alignment of the wrist occurs in up to 71% of patients following a distal radius fracture. A multiple case study was used to provide proof of principle of an image-based technique to investigate the evolution and impact of post-traumatic joint changes at the distal radioulnar joint. Participants who had a unilateral distal radius fracture who previously participated in a prospective study were recruited from a single tertiary hand center. Long term follow-up measures of pain, disability, range of motion and radiographic alignment were obtained and compared to joint congruency measures. The inter-bone distance, a measure of joint congruency was quantified from reconstructed CT bone models of the distal radius and ulna and the clinical outcome was quantified using the patient rated wrist evaluation. In all four cases, acceptable post-reduction alignment and minimal pain/disability at 1-year suggested good clinical outcomes. However, 10 years following injury, 3 out of 4 patients had radiographic signs of degenerative changes occurring in their injured wrist (distal radioulnar joint/radio-carpal joint). Proximity maps displaying inter-bone distances showed asymmetrical congruency between wrists in these three patients. The 10-year PRWE (patient rated wrist evaluation) varied from 4 to 60, with 3 reporting minimal pain/disability and one experiencing high pain/disability. These illustrative cases demonstrate long-term joint damage post-fracture is common and occurs despite positive short-term clinical outcomes. Imaging and functional outcomes are not necessarily correlated. A novel congruency measure provides an indicator of the overall impact of joint mal-alignment that can be used to determine predictors of post-traumatic arthritis and is viable for clinical or large cohort studies.
Clinical predictors of neurological outcome, functional status, and survival after traumatic spinal cord injury: a systematic review
Authors: Wilson Jefferson R. , Cadotte David W. , Fehlings Michael G.
Published: May 2015

Object

The object of this study was to identify, by means of a systematic review of the literature, the acute clinical predictors of neurological outcome, functional outcome, and survival after traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI).

Methods

A comprehensive computerized literature review search was performed, using MEDLINE, PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. Selected articles were classified according to their level of evidence. Articles were then stratified into one of 3 domains depending on whether the primary focus was clinical prediction of 1) neurological outcome, 2) functional status, or 3) survival. For each study selected, clinical predictors related to patient demographic characteristics, injury mechanism, or neurological examination findings were extracted, and the individual relationship to outcome was defined.

Results

The initial search resulted in 376 citations. After application of the inclusion and exclusion criteria and study review, 51 relevant articles were identified and graded. Of these, 25 provided predictors for neurological outcome, 22 for functional outcome, and 15 for survival, with several of the articles providing information on more than one type of outcome. All of the included studies were designated as providing Class I, II, or III levels of evidence. The severity of neurological injury (as measured by admission Americal Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale grade, Frankel grade, or injury completeness), level of injury, and the presence of a zone of partial preservation were consistent predictors of neurological outcome. Severity of neurological injury, level of injury, reflex pattern, and age were consistent predictors of functional outcome. Finally, severity of neurological injury, level of injury, age, and the presence of multisystem trauma seen with higher-energy injury mechanisms were consistent predictors of survival.

Conclusions

On the basis on this review, the authors have identified a constellation of acute clinical features that may help to define an individual's profile for recovery and survival after SCI. This study will help to facilitate communication in the clinical realm and assist in classifying subsets of patients within future clinical studies.
Evaluation of clinical experience using cell-based therapies in patients with spinal cord injury: a systematic review
Authors: Harrop James S. , Hashimoto Robin , Norvell Dan , Raich Annie , Aarabi Bizhan , Grossman Robert G. , Guest James D. , Tator Charles H. , Chapman Jens , Fehlings Michael G.
Published: May 2015

Object

Using a systematic approach, the authors evaluated the current utilization, safety, and effectiveness of cellular therapies for traumatic spinal cord injuries (SCIs) in humans.

Methods

A systematic search and critical review of the literature published through mid-January 2012 was performed. Articles included in the search were restricted to the English language, studies with at least 10 patients, and those analyzing cellular therapies for traumatic SCI. Citations were evaluated for relevance using a priori criteria, and those that met the inclusion criteria were critically reviewed. Each article was then designated a level of evidence that was developed by the Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine.

Results

The initial literature search identified 651 relevant articles, which decreased to 350 after excluding case reports and reviews. Evaluation of articles at the title/abstract level, and later at the full-text level, limited the final article set to 12 papers. The following cellular therapies employed in humans with SCI are reviewed: bone marrow mesenchymal and hematopoietic stem cells (8 studies), olfactory ensheathing cells (2 studies), Schwann cells (1 study), and fetal neurogenic tissue (1 study). Overall the quality of the literature was very low, with 3 Grade III levels of evidence and 9 Grade IV studies.

Conclusions

Several different cellular-mediated strategies for adult SCI have been reported to be relatively safe with varying degrees of neurological recovery. However, the literature is of low quality and there is a need for improved preclinical studies and prospective, controlled clinical trials.
Translational potential of preclinical trials of neuroprotection through pharmacotherapy for spinal cord injury
Authors: Tator Charles H. , Hashimoto Robin , Raich Annie , Norvell Daniel , Fehlings Michael G. , Harrop James S. , Guest James , Aarabi Bizhan , Grossman Robert G.
Published: May 2015

There is a need to enhance the pipeline of discovery and evaluation of neuroprotective pharmacological agents for patients with spinal cord injury (SCI). Although much effort and money has been expended on discovering effective agents for acute and subacute SCI, no agents that produce major benefit have been proven to date. The deficiencies of all aspects of the pipeline, including the basic science input and the clinical testing output, require examination to determine remedial strategies. Where has the neuroprotective/pharmacotherapy preclinical process failed and what needs to be done to achieve success? These are the questions raised in the present review, which has 2 objectives: 1) identification of articles that address issues related to the translational readiness of preclinical SCI pharmacological therapies; and 2) examination of the preclinical studies of 5 selected agents evaluated in animal models of SCI (including blunt force trauma, penetrating trauma, or ischemia). The 5 agents were riluzole, glyburide, magnesium sulfate, nimodipine, and minocycline, and these were selected because of their promise of translational readiness as determined by the North American Clinical Trials Network Consortium.

The authors found that there are major deficiencies in the effort that has been extended to coordinate and conduct preclinical neuroprotection/pharmacotherapy trials in the SCI field. Apart from a few notable exceptions such as the NIH effort to replicate promising strategies, this field has been poorly coordinated. Only a small number of articles have even attempted an overall evaluation of the neuroprotective/pharmacotherapy agents used in preclinical SCI trials. There is no consensus about how to select the agents for translation to humans on the basis of their preclinical performance and according to agreed-upon preclinical performance criteria.

In the absence of such a system and to select the next agent for translation, the Consortium has developed a Treatment Strategy Selection Committee, and this committee selected the most promising 5 agents for potential translation. The results show that the preclinical work on these 5 agents has left numerous gaps in knowledge about their preclinical performance and confirm the need for significant changes in preclinical neuroprotection/pharmacotherapy trials in SCI. A recommendation is made for the development and validation of a preclinical scoring system involving worldwide experts in preclinical and clinical SCI.
Is surgery for cervical spondylotic myelopathy cost-effective? A cost-utility analysis based on data from the AOSpine North America prospective CSM study
Authors: Fehlings Michael G. , Jha Neilank K. , Hewson Stephanie M. , Massicotte Eric M. , Kopjar Branko , Kalsi-Ryan Sukhvinder
Published: May 2015

Object

Surgical intervention for appropriately selected patients with cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM) has demonstrated favorable outcomes. This study evaluates the cost-effectiveness of this type of surgery in terms of cost per quality-adjusted life year (QALY) gained.

Methods

As part of a larger prospective multicenter study, the direct costs of medical treatment for 70 patients undergoing surgery for CSM at a single institution in Canada were retrospectively obtained from the hospital expenses database and physician reimbursement data. Utilities were estimated on the entire sample of 278 subjects enrolled in the multicenter study using SF-6D–derived utilities from 12- and 24-month SF-36v2 follow-up information. Costs were analyzed from the payer perspective. A 10-year horizon with 3% discounting was applied to health-utilities estimates. Sensitivity analysis was performed by varying utility gain by 20%.

Results

The SF-6D utility gain was 0.0734 (95% CI 0.0557–0.0912, p < 0.01) at 12 months and remained unchanged at 24 months. The 10-year discounted QALY gain was 0.64. Direct costs of medical treatment were estimated at an average of CaD $21,066. The estimated cost-utility ratio was CaD $32,916 per QALY gained. The sensitivity analysis showed a range of CaD $27,326–$40,988 per QALY gained. These estimates are within the limits for medical procedures that have an acceptable cost-utility ratio.

Conclusions

Surgical treatment for CSM is associated with significant improvement in health utilities as measured by the SF-6D. The direct cost of medical treatment per QALY gained places this form of treatment within the category deemed by payers to be cost-effective.
Extreme lateral transcondylar approach for resection of ventrally based meningioma of the craniovertebral junction and upper cervical spine
Authors: Liu James K.
Published: May 2015

Ventrally based meningiomas at the craniovertebral junction can be challenging tumors to remove because of their deep location anterior to the lower brainstem and upper cervical spinal cord, and close association with complex neurovascular structures. The extreme lateral transcondylar approach provides excellent access and exposure to anterior and anterolateral intradural tumors involving the region of the craniovertebral junction, including the lower third of the clivus, the foramen magnum, and the upper cervical spine. This approach allows safe access for removal of these difficult tumors without any neural retraction. In this operative video manuscript, the author demonstrates an illustrative step-by-step technique for microsurgical resection of a ventrally based meningioma extending from the foramen magnum to C-2 using the extreme lateral transcondylar approach. The operative technique and surgical nuances, including the surgical approach, intradural tumor removal, and cranial base reconstruction, are illustrated in this video atlas.

The video can be found here: http://youtu.be/4uvPpEtEShU.
Intramedullary spinal cord tumor resection
Authors: Groves Mari L. , Zadnik Patricia L. , Recinos Pablo F. , Renard Violette , Jallo George I.
Published: May 2015

The authors present a case of a 27-year-old patient who presented with spastic gait and worsening difficulty walking over a 6 month period. Spinal MR imaging revealed a heterogeneously enhancing intramedullary spinal cord tumor (IMSCT) with associated syrinx in the cervical spine. The lesion was resected through posterior en bloc laminotomy, durotomy, and microscopic resection of the intramedullary component followed by laminoplasty reconstruction. Surgical resections with a goal of gross total resection can significantly improve overall survival and progression free survival in patients with low-grade IMSCT. The procedure is presented in an edited, high-definition format with accompanying narrative.

The video can be found here: http://youtu.be/Ui9bn82PtP8.
Cervical ependymoma resection
Authors: Rodgers Shaun D. , Harter David H.
Published: May 2015

Intradural intramedullary cervical spinal cord tumors pose a significant challenge for the neurosurgeon to resect with minimal morbidity. We present the case of a 12-year-old male with a cervical ependymoma and demonstrate our resection technique.

The video can be found here: http://youtu.be/5DHlnxdggU0.
Expanded endoscopic endonasal transcribriform approach for resection of anterior skull base olfactory schwannoma
Authors: Liu James K. , Eloy Jean Anderson
Published: May 2015

Anterior skull base (ASB) schwannomas are extremely rare and can often mimic other pathologies involving the ASB such as olfactory groove meningiomas, hemangiopericytomas, esthesioneuroblastomas, and other malignant ASB tumors. The mainstay of treatment for these lesions is gross-total resection. Traditionally, resection for tumors in this location is performed through a bifrontal transbasal approach that can involve some degree of brain retraction or manipulation for tumor exposure. With the recent advances in endoscopic skull base surgery, various ASB tumors can be resected successfully using an expanded endoscopic endonasal transcribriform approach through a “keyhole craniectomy” in the ventral skull base. This approach represents the most direct route to the anterior cranial base without any brain retraction. Tumor involving the paranasal sinuses, medial orbits, and cribriform plate can be readily resected. In this video atlas report, the authors demonstrate their step-by-step techniques for resection of an ASB olfactory schwannoma using a purely endoscopic endonasal transcribriform approach. They describe and illustrate the operative nuances and surgical pearls to safely and efficiently perform the approach, tumor resection, and multilayered reconstruction of the cranial base defect.

The video can be found here: http://youtu.be/NLtOGfKWC6U.
Chaotic dynamics of a glaciohydraulic model
Authors: Kingslake J.
Published: May 2015

A model subglacial drainage system, coupled to an ice-dammed reservoir that receives a time-varying meltwater input, is described and analysed. In numerical experiments an ice-marginal lake drains through a subglacial channel, producing periodic floods, and fills with meltwater at a rate dependent on air temperature, which varies seasonally with a peak value of Tm. The analysis reveals regions of Tm parameter space corresponding to ‘mode locking’, where flood repeat time is independent of Tm; resonance, where decreasing Tm counter-intuitively increases flood size; and chaotic dynamics, where flood cycles are sensitive to initial conditions, never repeat and exhibit phase-space mixing. Bifurcations associated with abrupt changes in flood size and timing within the year separate these regions. This is the first time these complex dynamics have been displayed by a glaciohydraulic model and these findings have implications for our understanding of ice-marginal lakes, moulins and subglacial lakes.
Promoting collaboration and cultural competence for physician assistant and physical therapist students: a cross-cultural decentralized interprofessional education model
Authors: Oliveira Kathleen De , North Sara , Beck Barbra , Hopp Jane
Published: May 2015

Purpose: As the United States health care model progresses towards medical teams and the country’s population continues to diversify, the need for health professional education programs to develop and implement culturally specific interprofessional education (IPE) becomes increasingly imperative. A wide range of models exists for delivering and implementing IPE in health education, but none have included the cultural components that are vital in educating the health professional. Methods: A cross-cultural decentralized IPE model for physician assistant (PA) and physical therapy (PT) students was developed. This three-part IPE series was created using an established cultural curricular model and began with the exploration of self, continued with the examination of various dimensions of culture, and concluded with the exploration of the intersection between health and culture. We assessed student satisfaction of the IPE experiences and students’ engagement and attitudes towards IPE using a three-item open-ended questionnaire administered after each cross-cultural activity and the Interprofessional Education Series Survey (IESS) upon the completion of the series. Results: IESS responses showed that PA and PT students reported benefits in interprofessional collaboration and cultural awareness and expressed overall satisfaction with the series. Qualitative analysis revealed growth in student response depth consistent with the scaffolded focus of each IPE module in the series. Conclusion: The trends in this three-part series suggest that institutions looking to develop culturally inclusive IPE educational initiatives may have success through a decentralized model mirroring the effective cultural progression focused on addressing exploration of self, examination of various dimensions of culture, and exploration of the intersection between health and culture.
Metal Catalysts Recycling and Heterogeneous/Homogeneous Catalysis
Authors: Arai Masahiko , Zhao Fengyu
Published: May 2015

Heterogeneous metal catalysts rather than homogeneous ones are recommended for industrial applications after considering their performance in activity, separation, and recycling [1]. The recycling of metal catalysts is important from economic and environmental points of view. When supported and bulk metal catalysts are used in liquid-phase organic reactions, there is a possibility that active metal species are leaching away into the liquid phases [2,3]. The metal leaching would make it difficult for the catalysts to maintain their desired initial performance for repeated batch reactions and during continuous ones. The metal leaching would also cause some undesired contamination of products by the metal species dissolved in the reaction mixture, and the separation of the metal contaminants would be required to purify the products. Therefore, various novel methods have been proposed so far to immobilize/stabilize the active metal species and to separate/collect/reuse the dissolved metal species [4]. In addition, knowledge on the heterogeneous and homogeneous natures of organic reactions using heterogeneous catalysts is important to discuss their reaction mechanisms and catalytically working active species. [...]
Handheld Raman Spectroscopy for the Distinction of Essential Oils Used in the Cosmetics Industry
Authors: Jentzsch Paul , Ramos Luis , Ciobotă Valerian
Published: May 2015

Essential oils are highly appreciated by the cosmetics industry because they have antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, among others. Since essential oils are natural products, their inclusion in cosmetic formulations is a common practice. Currently, low-quality and/or adulterated essential oils can be found on the market; therefore, analytical methods for control are required. Raman spectroscopy is a versatile technique that can be used for quality control tasks; the portability of modern devices expand the analytical possibilities also to in situ measurements. Fifteen essential oils of interest for the cosmetics industry were measured using a handheld Raman spectrometer, and the assignment of the main bands observed in their average spectra was proposed. In most cases, it is possible to distinguish the essential oils by a simple visual inspection of their characteristic Raman bands. However, for essential oils extracted from closely-related vegetable species and containing the same main component in a very high proportion, the visual inspection of the spectra may be not enough, and the application of chemometric methods is suggested. Characteristic Raman bands for each essential oil can be used to both identify the essential oils and detect adulterations.
Flash Floods in the Guelmim Area/Southwest Morocco–Use of Remote Sensing and GIS-Tools for the Detection of Flooding-Prone Areas
Authors: Theilen-Willige Barbara , Charif Abdessamad , Ouahidi Abdelhadi , Chaibi Mohamed , Ougougdal Mohamed , AitMalek Halima
Published: May 2015

The violent storms of 22–30 November 2014, resulted in flash floods and wadi floods (rivers) in large parts of Southern Morocco, at the foot of the Atlas Mountains. The Guelmim area was the most affected part with at least 32 fatalities and damages due to inundations. The flooding hazard in the Guelmim region initiated this study in order to investigate the use of remote sensing and geographic information system (GIS) for the detection and identification of areas most likely to be flooded in the future again due to their morphologic properties during similar weather conditions. By combining morphometric analysis and visual interpretation based on Landsat 8 satellite data and derived images such as water index (NDWI) images, areas with relatively higher soil moisture and recently deposited sediments were identified. The resulting maps of weighted overlay procedures, aggregating causal, morphometric factors influencing the susceptibility to flooding (lowest height levels, flattest areas), allowed for the distinguishing of areas with higher, medium and lower susceptibility to flooding. Thus, GIS and remote sensing tools contribut to the recognition and mapping of areas and infrastructure prone to flooding in the Guelmim area.
Building-Related Symptoms among Office Employees Associated with Indoor Carbon Dioxide and Total Volatile Organic Compounds
Authors: Lu Chung-Yen , Lin Jia-Min , Chen Ying-Yi , Chen Yi-Chun
Published: May 2015

This study investigated whether sick building syndrome (SBS) complaints among office workers were associated with the indoor air quality. With informed consent, 417 employees in 87 office rooms of eight high-rise buildings completed a self-reported questionnaire for symptoms experienced at work during the past month. Carbon dioxide (CO2), temperature, humidity and total volatile organic compounds (TVOCs) in each office were simultaneously measured for eight office hours using portable monitors. Time-averaged workday difference between the indoor and the outdoor CO2 concentrations (dCO2) was calculated as a surrogate measure of ventilation efficiency for each office unit. The prevalence rates of SBS were 22.5% for eye syndrome, 15.3% for upper respiratory and 25.4% for non-specific syndromes. Tiredness (20.9%), difficulty in concentrating (14.6%), eye dryness (18.7%) were also common complaints. The generalized estimating equations multivariate logistic regression analyses showed that adjusted odds ratios (aORs) and 95% confidence interval (CI) per 100 ppm increase in dCO2 were significantly associated with dry throat (1.10, 95% CI = (1.00–1.22)), tiredness (1.16, 95% CI = (1.04–1.29)) and dizziness (1.22, 95% CI = (1.08–1.37)). The ORs for per 100 ppb increases in TVOCs were also associated with upper respiratory symptoms (1.06, 95% CI = (1.04–1.07)), dry throat (1.06, 95% CI = (1.03–1.09)) and irritability (1.02, 95% CI = (1.01–1.04)). In conclusion, the association between some SBS symptoms and the exposure to CO2 and total VOCs are moderate but may be independently significant.
The Expansion of the Economic Frontier and the Diffusion of Violence in the Amazon
Authors: Souza Patrícia , Xavier Diego , Rican Stephane , De Matos Vanderlei , Barcellos Christovam
Published: May 2015

Over the last few decades, the occupation of the Amazon and the expansion of large-scale economic activities have exerted a significant negative impact on the Amazonian environment and on the health of the Amazon’s inhabitants. These processes have altered the context of the manifestation of health problems in time and space and changed the characteristics of the spatial diffusion of health problems in the region. This study analyzed the relationships between the various economic processes of territorial occupation in the Amazon and the spatial diffusion of homicidal violence through the configuration of networks of production, as well as the movements of population and merchandise. Statistical data on violence, deforestation, the production of agricultural items, and socio-economic variables, georeferenced and available for the 771 municipalities of the Legal Amazon were used in this study. The results suggest that the diffusion of violence closely follows the economic expansion front, which is related to deforestation and livestock production but has little relation to grain production, demonstrating steps and typologies of recent occupation in the Amazon that promote violence. These spatial patterns reveal environmental and socio-economic macro-determinants that materialize in geographic space through the construction of highways and the formation of city networks.
Simultaneous Exposure to Heavy Metals among Residents in the Industrial Complex: Korean National Cohort Study
Authors: Park Heejin , Lee Kyoungho , Moon Chan-Seok , Woo Kyungsook , Kang Tack-Shin , Chung Eun-Kyung , Son Bu-Soon
Published: May 2015

A survey was conducted to evaluate the multi-exposure level and correlation among toxic metal biomarkers (Cd, Pb, and Hg). A total of 592 individuals who participated in the survey were residents near an industrial complex in Gwangyang and Yeosu (exposed group) and of Hadong and Namhae (control group) in southern Korea from May 2007 to November 2010. The Gwangyang and Yeosu area exposed groups had slightly higher blood Pb (2.21 and 1.90 µg/dL), urinary Cd observed values (2.20 and 1.46 µg/L), urinary Cd with a urinary creatinine correction (1.43 and 1.25 µg/g Cr), and urinary Hg observed values (2.26 and 0.98 µg/L) in women participants than those in the Hadong and Namhae area (control group). Blood Pb (3.18 and 2.55 µg/dL), urinary Hg observed values (1.14 and 0.92 µg/L), and urinary Hg with a urinary creatinine correction (1.06 and 0.96 µg/L) for male participants were also slightly higher than those in the Hadong and Namhae area (control group). The correlation among urinary Cd, Hg and Pb concentrations in the blood was significant. We suggest that the exposed group of residents were simultaneously exposed to Pb, Cd, and Hg from contaminated ambient air originating from the iron manufacturing industrial complex.
The Cross-Bridge of Skeletal Muscle Is Not Synchronized Either by Length or Force Step
Authors: Grazi Enrico
Published: May 2015

Force and length steps, applied to a muscle fiber in the isometric state, are believed to synchronize attached cross-bridges. This alleged synchronization facilitates the interpretation of the experiments. A rapid force step elicits an elastic response of the attached cross-bridges, followed by an isotonic phase. The decay of this second isotonic phase is of the first order. This excludes that the attached cross-bridges may decay all at the same time. The change of the X-ray interference distance during the second phase measures the stroke size only in the unrealistic case that the cross-bridges are and remain all attached. A rapid force step does not synchronize attached cross-bridges. The change of X-ray interference during the second phase does not measure the stroke size. These conclusions significantly change the picture of the mechanism of skeletal muscle contraction.
Manganese-Substituted Myoglobin: Characterization and Reactivity of an Oxidizing Intermediate towards a Weak C-H Bond
Authors: Stone Kari , Hua Joey , Choudhry Humdoon
Published: May 2015

Metal-substituted hemoproteins have been examined by biochemists for decades, but their potential for diverse functionalities has not been thoroughly investigated. By replacing hemoproteins with non-native metals, heme-containing proteins could be capable of performing a range of chemistries not allowed for in the native protein. The metal within the heme of the oxygen-carrying hemoprotein, myoglobin, can readily be replaced with other first row transition metals such as cobalt, chromium and manganese. Upon oxidation with two-electron oxidants (ex. meta-chloroperbenzoic acid), an oxidizing intermediate is produced in manganese-substituted myoglobin. Electron paramagnetic resonance analyses confirm the oxidation of Mn(III) to Mn(IV). With the addition of weak C-H bonds of 1,4 cyclohexadiene, hydrogen atom abstraction is exhibited by the oxidizing intermediate that displays a second-order rate constant of 2.79 +/− 0.22 M−1 s−1 by the metal-oxo species. The replacement of the iron ion with a manganese ion at the active site of myoglobin displays oxidative capabilities that are not shown in native myoglobin.
2-Methylsulfanylbenzo[f]isoquinoline
Authors: Jamshaid Faisal , Khan Musharraf , Hemming Karl
Published: May 2015

S-Methylation of a 4-(naphth-2-yl)-β-thiolactam gives an intermediate 4-(naphth-2-yl) substituted 1-azetine which undergoes a [2+2] ring-opening followed by electrocyclic ring closure of the resulting 2-azadiene to give a benzo[f]isoquinoline.
Structural and Functional Characterization of a Novel α-Conotoxin Mr1.7 from Conus marmoreus Targeting Neuronal nAChR α3β2, α9α10 and α6/α3β2β3 Subtypes
Authors: Wang Shuo , Zhao Cong , Liu Zhuguo , Wang Xuesong , Liu Na , Du Weihong , Dai Qiuyun
Published: May 2015

In the present study, we synthesized and, structurally and functionally characterized a novel α4/7-conotoxin Mr1.7 (PECCTHPACHVSHPELC-NH2), which was previously identified by cDNA libraries from Conus marmoreus in our lab. The NMR solution structure showed that Mr1.7 contained a 310-helix from residues Pro7 to His10 and a type I β-turn from residues Pro14 to Cys17. Electrophysiological results showed that Mr1.7 selectively inhibited the α3β2, α9α10 and α6/α3β2β3 neuronal nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) with an IC50 of 53.1 nM, 185.7 nM and 284.2 nM, respectively, but showed no inhibitory activity on other nAChR subtypes. Further structure-activity studies of Mr1.7 demonstrated that the PE residues at the N-terminal sequence of Mr1.7 were important for modulating its selectivity, and the replacement of Glu2 by Ala resulted in a significant increase in potency and selectivity to the α3β2 nAChR. Furthermore, the substitution of Ser12 with Asn in the loop2 significantly increased the binding of Mr1.7 to α3β2, α3β4, α2β4 and α7 nAChR subtypes. Taken together, this work expanded our knowledge of selectivity and provided a new way to improve the potency and selectivity of inhibitors for nAChR subtypes.
Influence of Core Oligosaccharide of Lipopolysaccharide to Outer Membrane Behavior of Escherichia coli
Authors: Wang Zhou , Wang Jianli , Ren Ge , Li Ye , Wang Xiaoyuan
Published: May 2015

Lipopolysaccharides, major molecules in the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria, play important roles on membrane integrity of the cell. However, how the core oligosaccharide of lipopolysaccharide affect the membrane behavior is not well understood. In this study, the relationship between the core oligosaccharide of lipopolysaccharide and the membrane behavior was investigated using a series of Escherichia coli mutants defective in genes to affect the biosynthesis of core oligosaccharide of lipopolysaccharide. Cell surface hydrophobicity, outer membrane permeability, biofilm formation and auto-aggregation of these mutant cells were compared. Compared to the wild type W3110, cell surface hydrophobicities of mutant ΔwaaC, ΔwaaF, ΔwaaG, ΔwaaO, ΔwaaP, ΔwaaY and ΔwaaB were enhanced, outer membrane permeabilities of ΔwaaC, ΔwaaF, ΔwaaG and ΔwaaP were significantly increased, abilities of biofilm formation by ΔwaaC, ΔwaaF, ΔwaaG, ΔwaaO, ΔwaaR, ΔwaaP, ΔwaaQ and ΔwaaY decreased, and auto-aggregation abilities of ΔwaaC, ΔwaaF, ΔwaaG, ΔwaaO, ΔwaaR, ΔwaaU, ΔwaaP and ΔwaaY were strongly enhanced. These results give new insight into the influence of core oligosaccharide of lipopolysaccharide on bacterial cell membrane behavior.
Theoretical Verification of Photoelectrochemical Water Oxidation Using Nanocrystalline TiO2 Electrodes
Authors: Yanagida Shozo , Yanagisawa Susumu , Yamashita Koichi , Jono Ryota , Segawa Hiroshi
Published: May 2015

Mesoscopic anatase nanocrystalline TiO2 (nc-TiO2) electrodes play effective and efficient catalytic roles in photoelectrochemical (PEC) H2O oxidation under short circuit energy gap excitation conditions. Interfacial molecular orbital structures of (H2O)3 &OH(TiO2)9H as a stationary model under neutral conditions and the radical-cation model of [(H2O)3&OH(TiO2)9H]+ as a working nc-TiO2 model are simulated employing a cluster model OH(TiO2)9H (Yamashita/Jono’s model) and a H2O cluster model of (H2O)3 to examine excellent H2O oxidation on nc-TiO2 electrodes in PEC cells. The stationary model, (H2O)3&OH(TiO2)9H reveals that the model surface provides catalytic H2O binding sites through hydrogen bonding, van der Waals and Coulombic interactions. The working model, [(H2O)3&OH(TiO2)9H]+ discloses to have a very narrow energy gap (0.3 eV) between HOMO and LUMO potentials, proving that PEC nc-TiO2 electrodes become conductive at photo-irradiated working conditions. DFT-simulation of stepwise oxidation of a hydroxide ion cluster model of OH−(H2O)3, proves that successive two-electron oxidation leads to hydroxyl radical clusters, which should give hydrogen peroxide as a precursor of oxygen molecules. Under working bias conditions of PEC cells, nc-TiO2 electrodes are now verified to become conductive by energy gap photo-excitation and the electrode surface provides powerful oxidizing sites for successive H2O oxidation to oxygen via hydrogen peroxide.
Molecular Interactions of β-(1→3)-Glucans with Their Receptors
Authors: Legentil Laurent , Paris Franck , Ballet Caroline , Trouvelot Sophie , Daire Xavier , Vetvicka Vaclav , Ferrières Vincent
Published: May 2015

β-(1→3)-Glucans can be found as structural polysaccharides in cereals, in algae or as exo-polysaccharides secreted on the surfaces of mushrooms or fungi. Research has now established that β-(1→3)-glucans can trigger different immune responses and act as efficient immunostimulating agents. They constitute prevalent sources of carbons for microorganisms after subsequent recognition by digesting enzymes. Nevertheless, mechanisms associated with both roles are not yet clearly understood. This review focuses on the variety of elucidated molecular interactions that involve these natural or synthetic polysaccharides and their receptors, i.e., Dectin-1, CR3, glycolipids, langerin and carbohydrate-binding modules.
Synthesis, Characterization and Biological Studies of Metal(II) Complexes of (3E)-3-[(2-{(E)-[1-(2,4-Dihydroxyphenyl) ethylidene]amino}ethyl)imino]-1-phenylbutan-1-one Schiff Base
Authors: Ejidike Ikechukwu , Ajibade Peter
Published: May 2015

Co(II), Ni(II), Zn(II) and Cu(II) complexes of (3E)-3-[(2-{(E)-[1-(2,4-dihydroxyphenyl)ethylidene]amino}ethyl)imino]-1-phenylbutan-1-one (DEPH2) derived from ethylenediamine, 2′,4′-dihydroxyacetophenone and 1-phenylbutane-1,3-dione have been synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis, FTIR, UV-Visible spectroscopy, and screened to establish their potential as antibacterial agents, antioxidants and DPPH radical scavengers. The FTIR spectra showed that the ligand behaves as a dibasic tetradentate ligand with the dioxygen-dinitrogen donor atom system oriented towards the central metal ion. The analytical and spectroscopic data suggest a square planar geometry for Cu(II) and Ni(II) complexes and an octahedral geometry for the Co(II) complex. The ligand and their metal complexes were screened for antibacterial activity against Gram (+) and Gram (−) bacteria by the agar well diffusion method. In addition, the antioxidant activities of the complexes were also investigated through their scavenging effect on DPPH and ABTS radicals. The obtained IC50 value of the DPPH activity for the copper complex (2.08 ± 0.47 µM) and that of the ABTS activity for the copper complex (IC50 = 2.11 + 1.69 µM) were higher than the values obtained for the other compounds.