bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Early versus late injection medialization for unilateral vocal cord paralysis
Authors: Friedman Aaron D. , Burns James A. , Heaton James T. , Zeitels Steven M.
Published: September 2010

Objectives:

To evaluate whether the timing of early (≤6 months from time of nerve injury) vs. late (>6 months) injection medialization laryngoplasty impacts the need for subsequent open‐neck reconstruction to restore vocal function in patients with unilateral vocal cord paralysis.

Study Design:

Retrospective chart review.

Methods:

A total of 112 outpatient or hospitalized adults with dysphonia resulting from postsurgical or idiopathic unilateral vocal cord paralysis were identified who were injected as initial treatment within 1 year of onset of their paralysis. All subjects underwent awake, transoral, paraglottic injection with absorbable hyaluronic‐acid gel. Patients with documented recovery of vocal cord mobility (22), active disease directly affecting the recurrent laryngeal nerve (8), <3 months of follow‐up after injection (time for gel to be reabsorbed) (34), or deaths within 1 year after the onset of paralysis (13) were excluded, leaving a study population of 35 patients.

Results:

Twenty of 32 (62.5%) patients with early injection medialization maintained an adequate voice, obviating the need for open‐neck phonosurgical reconstruction; their follow‐up from onset of paralysis ranged from 4.0 to 41.8 months (mean 15.2). None of the three patients undergoing late injection (>6 months postparalysis) avoided phonosurgical reconstruction (P = .03, χ2 test).

Conclusions:

Patients receiving early injection medialization for vocal cord paralysis were less likely to require transcervical reconstruction. We believe that early medialization creates a more favorable vocal cord position for phonation that can be maintained by synkinetic reinnervation, in contrast to the final position of a lateralized vocal cord being determined solely by reinnervation. Laryngoscope, 2010
Hearing loss alters quantal release at cochlear nucleus stellate cells
Authors: Rich Alexander W. , Xie Ruili , Manis Paul B.
Published: September 2010

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Auditory nerve synapses in ventral cochlear nucleus end on two principal cell types, bushy and stellate cells. Although the effects of hearing loss on bushy cells have been well studied, little is known about the effects of hearing loss on synaptic input to the stellate cells. Based on prior observations in bushy cells, we hypothesized that noise‐induced hearing loss (NIHL) would decrease quantal release onto stellate cells.

Study Design:

Prospective, randomized animal study.

Methods:

CBA/CaJ mice were exposed for 2 hours to 98 dB sound pressure level (SPL) 8‐ to 16‐kHz noise to produce a temporary threshold shift (TTS) or 114 dB SPL to produce a permanent threshold shift (PTS). Spontaneous miniature excitatory postsynaptic currents (mEPSCs) were then measured in stellate cells in brain slices of the cochlear nucleus.

Results:

Click auditory brainstem evoked response thresholds were elevated by 35 dB in both TTS and PTS mice. Spontaneous mEPSC frequency was found to be five‐fold higher than normal in stellate cells of TTS mice and three‐fold higher in PTS mice. The mEPSC amplitude was also larger in PTS mice. The mEPSC time course was not different between experimental and control groups.

Conclusions:

The dramatic increase in mEPSC frequency after NIHL was not expected. The increase in mEPSC amplitude in PTS mice suggests a postsynaptic remodeling process. Both of these effects could contribute to increased spontaneous firing in the cochlear nucleus in the absence of sound. Our results also suggest that hearing loss may have different effects at auditory nerve synapses on bushy and stellate cells in the VCN. Laryngoscope, 2010
Reclamation and salt leaching efficiency for tile drained saline‐sodic soil using marginal quality water for irrigating rice and wheat crops
Authors: Ghafoor A. , Murtaza G. , Rehman M. Z. , Saifullah  , Sabir M.
Published: September 2010

Due to increased population and urbanization, freshwater demand for domestic purposes has increased resulting in a smaller proportion for irrigation of crops. We carried out a 3‐year field experiment in the Indus Plains of Pakistan on salt‐affected soil (ECe15·67–23·96 dS m−1, pHs8·35–8·93, SAR 70–120, infiltration rate 0·72–0·78 cm h−1,ρb1·70–1·80 Mg m−3) having tile drainage in place. The 3‐year cropping sequence consisted of rice (Oryza sativaL.) and wheat (Triticum aestivumL.) crops in rotation. These crops were irrigated with groundwater having electrical conductivity (EC) 2·7 dS m−1, sodium adsorption ratio (SAR) 8·0 (mmol L−1)1/2and residual sodium carbonate (RSC) 1·3 mmolc L−1. Treatments were: (1) irrigation with brackish water without amendment (control); (2) Sesbania (Sesbania aculeata) green manure each year before rice (SM); (3) applied gypsum at 100 per cent soil gypsum requirement (SGR) and (4) applied gypsum as in treatment 3 plus sesbania green manure each year (GSM). A decrease in soil salinity and sodicity and favourable infiltration rate and bulk density over pre‐experiment levels are recorded. GSM resulted in the largest decrease in soil salinity and sodicity. There was a positive relationship between crop yield and economic benefits and improvement in soil physical and chemical properties. On the basis of six crops, the greatest net benefit was obtained from GSM. Based on this long‐term study, combined use of gypsum at 100 per cent soil gypsum requirement along with sesbania each year is recommended for soil amelioration and crop production. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Thulium laser urethrotomy for urethral stricture: A preliminary report
Authors: Wang Linhui , Wang Zhixiang , Yang Bo , Yang Qing , Sun Yinghao
Published: September 2010

Background and Objectives

The outcome of thulium laser urethrotomy for patients with urethral stricture had not been reported. The purpose of this study was to evaluate outcome of endourethrotomy with the thulium laser as a minimally invasive treatment for urethral stricture.

Materials and Methods

Twenty‐one consecutive patients with urethral stricture were evaluated by retrograde uroflowmetry, International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), and quality of life preoperatively at a single academic center. All patients were treated with thulium laser urethrotomy. All patients were followed up for 12–24 months postoperatively by uroflowmetry and by retrograde with voiding cystourethrogram every 3 months. And all patients were followed up by mailed questionnaire, including IPSS and quality of life.

Results

Retrograde endoscopic thulium laser urethrotomy was performed in all 21 patients. Most patients (N = 16; 76.2%) did not need any reintervention. Five patients developed recurrent strictures, of them two patients were treated by another laser urethrotomy, one patient was treated by open urethroplasty with buccal mucosa and the other two patients' reintervention were treated by urethral dilation. No intraoperative complications were encountered, although in 9.5% (N = 2) of patients, a urinary tract infection was diagnosed postoperatively. No gross hematuria occurred. Including two patients treated with repeat laser urethrotomy, 17(81.0%) showed good flow of urine (Qave>16.0 ml/second) and adequate caliber urethra in retrograde urethrogram (RGU) 12 months after operation. Three (14.3%) patients showed narrow stream of urine (Qave<8.0 ml/second) and urethral dilation was done every month or 2 months. There was one patient whose Qave was between 8.0 and 16.0 ml/second. And this patient was treated by neither urethral dilation nor another laser urethrotomy.

Conclusions

The thulium laser urethrotomy was a safe and effective minimally invasive therapeutic modality for urethral stricture. Lasers Surg. Med. 42:620–623, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
In vivo femtosecond laser subsurface scleral treatment in rabbit eyes
Authors: Chai Dongyul , Chaudhary Gautam , Mikula Eric , Sun Hui , Kurtz Ron , Juhasz Tibor
Published: September 2010

Background and Objectives

The progression of glaucoma can be reduced or delayed by reducing intraocular pressure (IOP). The properties of femtosecond laser surgery, such as markedly reduced collateral tissue damage, coupled with the ability to achieve isolated subsurface surgical effects in the sclera, make this technology a promising candidate in glaucoma management. In this pilot study we demonstrate the in vivo creation of partial thickness subsurface drainage channels with the femtosecond laser in the sclera of rabbit eyes in order to increase aqueous humor (AH) outflow.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

A femtosecond laser beam tuned to a 1.7 µm wavelength was scanned along a rectangular raster pattern to create the partial thickness subsurface drainage channels in the sclera of one eye of each of the four rabbits included in this pilot study. IOP was measured before and 20 minutes after the laser treatment to evaluate the acute effect of the procedure.

Results

OCT images verified the creation of the partial thickness subsurface scleral channels in the eyes of the in vivo rabbits. Comparison of pre‐ and postoperative IOP measurements in treated and control eyes revealed a reduction in the intraocular pressure due to the increased rate of AH outflow resulted in by the presence of the partial thickness scleral channels.

Conclusions

The creation of partial thickness subsurface drainage channels was demonstrated in the sclera of in vivo rabbit eyes with a 1.7 µm wavelength femtosecond laser. Reduction in IOP achieved by the partial thickness channels suggests potential utility in the treatment of elevated IOP. Lasers Surg. Med. 42:647–651, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Continuous development of arrhythmia is observed in swedish transplant patients with familial amyloidotic polyneuropathy (amyloidogenic transthyretin Val30Met variant)
Authors: Okamoto Sadahisa , Hörnsten Rolf , Obayashi Konen , Wijayatunga Priyantha , Suhr Ole B.
Published: September 2010

In patients with familial amyloidotic polyneuropathy (FAP), heart complications are prognostic factors for mortality and morbidity after liver transplantation (LT). However, only a few studies have analyzed the development of arrhythmia in transplant patients with FAP. We investigated the development of arrhythmia requiring pacemaker insertion (PMI) in Swedish transplant patients with FAP, and we related the findings to gender, age at disease onset, and survival. One hundred four transplant patients with the amyloidogenic transthyretin Val30Met mutation were included in the study. Twenty-six (25%) received a pacemaker during the observation period (a median of 11 years after disease onset). This frequency was comparable to that noted in a previous study describing the natural course of FAP. No significant differences in PMI between early-onset cases (<50 years old) and late-onset cases (≥50 years old) or between genders were observed. PMI was not significantly related to patient survival. Our study confirms our previously reported short-time observation: LT does not prevent the development of heart arrhythmia necessitating PMI. The development of arrhythmia is unrelated to gender or age at disease onset, and the yearly risk does not appear to decrease with time after LT. Liver Transpl 17:122–128, 2011. © 2011 AASLD
Polymer‐based Biomaterials as Dressings for Chronic Stagnating Wounds
Authors: Wiegand Cornelia , Hipler Uta‐Christina
Published: September 2010

Chronic wounds, such as venous, pressure, and diabetic ulcers, are difficult to heal and represent a rising social and economical problem. Compared to acute wounds, non‐healing wounds contain elevated levels of neutrophil elastase, pro‐inflammatory cytokines (IL‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐8), and matrix metalloproteases (MMP‐2, MMP‐9, MMP‐13) as well as free radicals. Their overproduction perpetuates the inflammatory phase resulting in severe tissue damage and degradation of growth factors. Consequently, wound closure is prevented and the wound remains non‐healing for month or even years. The increasing numbers of patients suffering from wounds that fail to heal are a significant challenge for health care professionals. Wound dressings play an important role in the entire management of these wounds. New materials and treatment strategies are needed to improve wound care. Recent advances in the field of biomaterials and their medical applications indicate the significance and potential of various natural polymers in the development of novel classes of wound dressings. Native polymers are an ideal source for bio‐active wound dressings because of their availability and biocompatibility. Hence, several studies have been conducted to explore the influence of wound dressings consisting of collagen, oxidized regenerated cellulose, bacterial cellulose, chitosan, or alginate on the destructive milieu in chronic wounds.
Functionalization and Application of Cellulose Microparticles as Adsorbents in Extracorporeal Blood Purification
Authors: Weber Viktoria , Ettenauer Marion , Linsberger Ingrid , Loth Fritz , Thümmler Katrin , Feldner Andreas , Fischer Steffen , Falkenhagen Dieter
Published: September 2010

Therapeutic apheresis is established as supportive therapy for various diseases, such as hypercholesterolemia, autoimmune diseases, liver failure, and sepsis. In combined membrane‐adsorption systems, the patient's plasma is continuously separated from whole blood by means of a hollow fiber filter, and pathogenic factors are removed from the plasma by selective or specific adsorbents. While adsorbent particles with a size range of 300–800 µm are used in conventional systems, we are currently developing a system based on adsorbent microparticles (1–5 µm), the Microspheres‐Based Detoxification System (MDS). The characteristics of the matrix used for immobilization of specific ligands influence the performance of the resulting adsorbents. Desirable matrix characteristics are an open porous structure with an inner surface accessible for target molecules, mechanical stability, narrow particle size distribution, and ease of derivatization. In addition, biocompatibility is a critical issue, since the particles are in direct contact with the patient's plasma. Cellulose represents an ideal support matrix, as it combines all the above‐mentioned features, and cellulosic polymers are widely applied in medicine and generally regarded as biocompatible. Cellulose microparticles can be activated using e.g. sodium periodate and functionalized with Polymyxin B or anti‐tumor necrosis factor (TNF) antibodies to generate specific adsorbents for endotoxins or TNF. In summary, cellulose microparticles represent an excellent matrix as basis for adsorbent development in blood purification.
Carboxymethylation of Bacterial Cellulose
Authors: Schlufter Kerstin , Heinze Thomas
Published: September 2010

The carboxymethylation of bacterial cellulose (BC) was studied under typical heterogeneous reaction conditions. It was found that the BC possesses a significantly lower reactivity compared to wood cellulose converted under comparable conditions. Moreover, water‐solubility of carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) obtained from BC appears at rather high degree of substitution of about 1.5 although a nearly statistical functionalization pattern was analyzed by HPLC. Obviously, the nano‐structure of BC is important for the reactivity and the properties of the synthesized CMC like water‐solubility.
Study on Synthesis and NMR Characterization of 2,3‐O‐Hydroxyethyl Cellulose Depending on Synthesis Conditions
Authors: Petzold‐Welcke Katrin , Kötteritzsch Manuela , Fenn Dominik , Koschella Andreas , Heinze Thomas
Published: September 2010

The synthesis of hydroxyethyl celluloses with regioselective functionalization in position 2 and 3 starting from triphenylmethyl (trityl) cellulose is described. The effects of reaction conditions upon both the degree of substitution and the distribution of the hydroxyethyl moieties were investigated in detail. The interest was not only focused on regioselective functionalization within the anhydroglucose unit but also on the formation of oxyethylene side chains. To avoid the formation of oxyethylene side chains, 2‐(2‐bromoethoxy)tetrahydropyran was used as etherifying agent in comparison with 2‐bromoethanol. By acidic hydrolysis, both protecting groups – trityl at 6 position and tetrahydropyran at the hydroxyethyl substituent – can be simultaneously cleaved off. The hydroxyethyl celluloses were characterized by one‐ and two‐dimensional NMR spectroscopy in order to determine the substitution pattern.
Solvent Effects on the NMR Chemical Shifts of Imidazolium‐Based Ionic Liquids and Cellulose Therein
Authors: Hesse‐Ertelt Stephanie , Heinze Thomas , Kosan Birgit , Schwikal Katrin , Meister Frank
Published: September 2010

The interactions of ionic liquids (IL) with solvents usually used in liquid‐state nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy are studied. The 1H‐ and 13C‐NMR chemical shift values of 1‐n‐butyl‐3‐methyl (BM)‐ and 1‐ethyl‐3‐methyl (EM)‐substituted imidazolium (IM) ‐chlorides (Cl) and ‐acetates (Ac) are determined before and after diluting with deuterated solvents (DMSO‐d6, D2O, CD3OD, and CDCl3). The dilution offers structural modifications of the IL due to the solvents capacity to ionization. For further investigation of highly viscous cellulose dopes made of imidazolium‐based IL, solid‐state NMR spectroscopy enables the reproducibility of liquid‐state NMR data of pure IL. The correlation of liquid‐ and solid‐state NMR is shown on EMIM‐Ac and cellulose/EMIM‐Ac dope (10 wt %).
Small Strain Mechanical Properties of Latex‐Based Nanocomposite Films
Authors: Plummer Christopher J.G. , Ruggerone Riccardo , Negrete‐Herrera N. , Bourgeat‐Lami Elodie , Månson Jan‐Anders E.
Published: September 2010

A waterborne latex‐based technique, in which functionalized laponite is attached to PS and acrylic latex particles, is used to prepare films containing up to 50 wt% laponite. At high laponite contents this leads to a cellular arrangement of the laponite‐rich layers, concentrated at the latex particle interfaces. MDSC shows that a significant proportion of the organic matrix does not contribute to the glass transition. However, this “rigid” matrix fraction arises from intercalation of the laponite stacks, and cannot account for the large increases in global stiffness in the rubbery state (T > Tg) on laponite addition. The mechanical response for T > Tg is therefore discussed in terms of a four‐phase structure, in which the intercalated laponite stacks embedded in a matrix with a relatively high rubbery modulus form a cellular structure, which is in turn embedded in a matrix whose modulus is closer to that of the bulk polymer. The importance of the cellular arrangement is underlined by the much lower rubbery modulus observed by DMA in specimens produced by deforming the original films in plane strain compression to produce oriented textures with relatively little connectivity between the laponite‐rich layers.
Importance of Molecular Coupling for Mechanical Performance of Block Copolymer Compounds
Authors: Adhikari Rameshwar , Henning Sven , Michler Goerg H.
Published: September 2010

Mixtures of polystyrene‐block‐polyisoprene‐block‐polystyrene (SIS) triblock copolymer and various styrenic block copolymers (having diblock and triblock architectures) as well as polystyrene homopolymer (PS) were prepared via solution blending to determine the influence of molecular coupling on the large strain mechanical performance of the block copolymers. The techniques used were transmission electron microscopy (TEM) as well as scanning electron microscopy (SEM) for the morphological characterization and uniaxial tensile testing for the determination of mechanical properties. In the block copolymer blends, it was possible to tailor the mechanical properties as long as the molecular coupling was present among the outer polystyrene blocks. The mechanical performance of the triblock copolymer was found to deteriorate by the presence of dangling chains in the microphase‐separated domains. In the blends comprising an SIS triblock copolymer and polystyrene homopolymers, the macrophase‐separated compounds containing PS having molar mass exceeding the entanglement molar mass showed the optimum mechanical properties. The observed mechanical behaviour has been correlated with the fracture surface morphology of the corresponding blends.
Plasticity of Semicrystalline Polymers
Authors: Bartczak Z. , Galeski A.
Published: September 2010

Semi‐crystalline polymers can be deformed up to a very high strain. The deformation process involves frequently a complete molecular rearrangement of the chain‐folded lamellar morphology into a more or less chain‐unfolded fibrillar microstructure. This transformation is likely to occur through an intermediate state of high molecular disorder at a local scale. It led to the formulation of a concept of strain‐induced melting‐recrystallization process as a main mechanism of the structure transformation. In contrast, several structural features occurring at moderate plastic strains are relevant to strictly crystallographic processes. The plastic deformation process of semicrystalline polymers and the micromechanisms involved are discussed. A critical discussion of experimental findings is made to point out the strength or the deficiency of the various argumentations. It is demonstrated that the crystallographic slip mechanisms, including slips: transverse and along the chains are the basic deformation mechanisms in the deformation sequence, active at all strain levels. Direct microscopic evidence of chain slip activity even at well advanced stages of the deformation process is presented. In contrary, the melting‐recrystallization seems to be restricted to the high‐strain stage accompanied by chain unfolding and perhaps limited to only a small fraction of the crystalline phase. In addition the experimental results demonstrates clearly that the cavitation, necessary in the Peterlin's model, is really unessential in producing high deformation and appearance of the final highly oriented structure. This can be effectively accomplished with only crystallographic mechanisms employed. A very important role in the deformation sequence is played by the partially reversible shear deformation of amorphous interlamellar layers, producing not only high orientation of amorphous component but also influencing deeply the deformation of crystalline phase, since both phases are strongly connected and must deform simultaneously and consistently.
Study on Flow Induced Nano Structures in iPP with Different Molecular Weight and Resulting Strength Behavior
Authors: Frick Achim , Stern Claudia , Michler Goerg , Henning Sven , Ruff Martin
Published: September 2010

Polypropylene samples in a wide molecular weight range between approx. 100 kg/mol to 1 600 kg/mol were processed by injection molding to thin walled micro specimens with respect to study shear induced crystallization phenomena under high shear rate and subsequently possible self reinforcement effects. The specimens nano structures were investigated and related deformation behavior under tensile studied. Novel morphologies have been detect and their micromechanical mechanism interpret and summarized.
Study on the Influence of Melt Processing on Segmented Polyurethanes Morphology
Authors: Frick Achim , Mikoszek Marzena
Published: September 2010

A study on thermoplastic polyurethanes (TPU) is described. The investigation focuses on morphology of TPU parts depending on processing conditions and its relation with mechanical and thermal properties. It was found that TPU materials present different crystalline structures depending on chemical composition and melt processing conditions during part manufacturing. Due to that fact, strong variations in mechanical and tribological properties are expected.
Nanostructured Materials for Skeletal Repair
Authors: Brandt Joerg , Michler Goerg , Vogel Juergen , Henning Sven
Published: September 2010

The treatment of bone and cartilage defects with bioengineered constructs of artificial scaffolds and autogenous cells became the main challenge of contemporary regenerative medicine. Early defect repair may prevent secondary injury. Recent studies could prove that bone and cartilage cells are sensitive to microscale and nanoscale patterns of surface topography and chemical structure. Nanostructured materials provide an environment for tissue regeneration mimicking the physiological range of extracellular matrix. The article reviews several studies substantiating the superiority of nanostructured materials for bone and cartilage repair along with own results on cell attachment.
Biogenic Polyelectrolyte Multilayers on Poly(L‐lactide) Films for Control of Osteoblast Adhesion
Authors: Liu Zhen‐Mei , Gu Qin‐Yi , Barry Aminatou , Xu Zhi‐Kang , Groth Thomas
Published: September 2010

Cell adhesion and spreading are important events during cell‐biomaterial interaction, which control survival, growth and differentiation of cells. Layer‐by‐layer technique was used to generate multilayer coatings for regulating adhesion of primary osteoblasts on biomaterials. Polyelectrolyte multilayers (PEM) were based on poly (ethylene imine) as primary polycation layer. PEM were then prepared from chitosan (CHI) as polycation and heparin (HEP), or sulfated HA (sHA) as polyanions. It was observed that attachment and spreading of primary osteoblasts (pOB) was highly dependent on the composition of multilayers, as well as pH values of polyelectrolyte solutions. Results presented in this paper may pave the way for application of PEM surface coatings for bone‐contacting implant materials.
Patient falls: Association with hospital Magnet status and nursing unit staffing
Authors: Lake Eileen T. , Shang Jingjing , Klaus Susan , Dunton Nancy E.
Published: September 2010

The relationships between hospital Magnet® status, nursing unit staffing, and patient falls were examined in a cross‐sectional study using 2004 National Database of Nursing Quality Indicators (NDNQI®) data from 5,388 units in 108 Magnet and 528 non‐Magnet hospitals. In multivariate models, the fall rate was 5% lower in Magnet than non‐Magnet hospitals. An additional registered nurse (RN) hour per patient day was associated with a 3% lower fall rate in ICUs. An additional licensed practical nurse (LPN) or nursing assistant (NA) hour was associated with a 2–4% higher fall rate in non‐ICUs. Patient safety may be improved by creating environments consistent with Magnet hospital standards. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Res Nurs Health 33:413–425, 2010
Possible cases of leprosy and tuberculosis in medieval Sigtuna, Sweden
Authors: Kjellström Anna
Published: September 2010

In Sigtuna, Sweden, a medieval cemetery, including 227 skeletons, was analysed in 2006. On the outskirts of the churchyard, six skeletons with bone changes indicating systemic inflammatory disease were observed. Two out of three individuals with well‐preserved facial bone regions displayed signs of rhinomaxillary remodelling. Four of the afflicted exhibit severe bilateral alterations of the lower legs and phalanges of the feet and concentric atrophy of the metatarsals. In addition, one of the individuals exhibited a kyphosis in the lumbar vertebrae. In a discussion about alternative diagnoses, lepromatous leprosy and tuberculosis were identified as the causes of the destructive lesions in two individuals. Though the skeletal changes of the lower legs and feet in four cases demonstrate a close resemblance to secondary lesions of leprosy, the disease could not be confirmed. The skeletal changes of the last individual were unspecific and the possible causes several, rendering diagnosis difficult.

The burial locations imply that the afflicted persons belonged to a lower social stratum. Due to the significantly higher frequency of pathological changes in the cemetery compared to other cemeteries in the town, the individuals could be regarded as fellow sufferers among others with various medical conditions. The bioarchaeological identification of systemic infectious diseases of a group of individuals of this size is unique to north of Scania in Sweden, where only a few cases of leprosy and tuberculosis have previously been diagnosed. The significance of the present study is emphasised by the interconnection between the afflicted, the archaeological context and the knowledge of the medieval society in Sigtuna. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Contribution of microwave accelerated distillation in the extraction of the essential oil of Zygophyllum album L.
Authors: Tigrine‐Kordjani Nacéra , Meklati Brahim Youcef , Chemat Farid
Published: September 2010

Introduction – The aerial parts of Zygophyllum album L. are used in folk medicine as an antidiabetic agent and as a drug active against several pathologies. In this work we present the chemical composition of Algerian essential oils obtained by microwave accelerated distillation (MAD) extraction, a solventless method assisted by microwave.

Objective – Under the same analytical conditions and using GC‐FID and GC‐MS, the chemical composition of the essential oil of Zygophyllum album L. extracted by MAD was compared with that achieved using hydrodistillation (HD).

Methodology – The extracted compounds were hydrosoluble, and they were removed from the aqueous solution by a liquid extraction with an organic solvent.

Results – Employing MAD (100°C, 30 min), the essential oil contained mainly oxygenated monoterpenes with major constituents: carvone and α‐terpineol. However, most of the compounds present in the hydrodistilled volatile fraction were not terpene species, with β‐damascenone as a major constituent.

Conclusion – The MAD method appears to be more efficient than HD: after 30 min extraction time, the obtained yields (i.e. 0.002%) were comparable to those provided by HD after 3 h extraction. MAD seems to be more convenient since the volatile fraction is richer in oxygenated monoterpenes, species that are recognised for their olfactory value and their contribution to the fragrance of the essential oil. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hemangioma in the newborn: increased incidence after chorionic villus sampling
Authors: Bauland Constantijn G. , Smit Jeroen M. , Bartelink Lidewij R. , Zondervan Hans A. , Spauwen Paul H. M.
Published: September 2010

Objectives

This study was designed to compare the effects of transcervical chorionic villus sampling (CVS) and amniocentesis on the prevalence of hemangiomas of infancy.

Methods

This is a cohort study of 250 consecutive assessable transabdominal amniocentesis procedures and 250 consecutive assessable transcervical CVS procedures performed between January and September 2002. Parents were asked to fill out a questionnaire regarding the presence of any type of skin lesions. Based on the responses to the questionnaire, children were invited to undergo a physical examination to confirm hemangiomas.

Results

Questionnaires were returned in 78% of the CVS group (195/250) and in 72% of the amniocentesis group (180/250). Based on the responses in the questionnaire, 78 children in the CVS group and 42 in the amniocentesis group underwent a physical examination. One or more hemangiomas were present in 53 of 195 (27.2%) children in the CVS group versus 17 of 180 (9.4%) children in the amniocentesis group (odds ratio 3.6, 95% CI: 2.0–6.5). There was no difference in congenital abnormalities between the two groups.

Conclusion

Transcervical CVS is associated with a significantly increased prevalence of hemangiomas compared with amniocentesis. The clinical features of these hemangiomas do not differ from natural hemangiomas and complications of these hemangiomas are very rare. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Diagnostic yield by supplementing prenatal metaphase karyotyping with MLPA for microdeletion syndromes and subtelomere imbalances
Authors: Kjaergaard S. , Sundberg K. , Jørgensen F. S. , Rohde M. D. , Lind A. M. , Gerdes T. , Tabor A. , Kirchhoff M.
Published: September 2010

Objective

The aim of the study was to retrospectively assess the relevance of using multiplex ligation‐dependent probe amplification (MLPA) for detection of selected microdeletion syndromes (22q11, Prader–Willi/Angelman, Miller–Dieker, Smith–Magenis, 1p‐, Williams), the reciprocal microduplication syndromes and imbalance at the subtelomere regions of chromosomes in a routine prenatal setting.

Method

A total of 530 prenatal samples were analysed by commercial MLPA kits (SALSA P064, P036 and P069) in addition to rapid aneuploidy testing and G‐band karyotyping.

Results

Among the prenatal samples with a normal metaphase karyotype, nine submicroscopic imbalances were detected: seven 22q11 deletions (Velocardiofacial/DiGeorge syndrome), one 15q11deletion (Prader–Willi syndrome) and one terminal deletion of the short arm of chromosome 4 (Wolf–Hirschhorn syndrome). All imbalances were found in amniocentesis (AC) taken due to fetal structural malformation and/or other ultrasound scan (US) detected abnormality. The diagnostic yield was 4.1% in the subgroup with structural malformation and 1.6% in the subgroup with other US abnormality.

Conclusion

The data set substantiates that additional MLPA analyses for selected microdeletions and subtelomere imbalances are valuable in routine prenatal diagnostics, when a malformation(s) and/or other abnormalities are detected by US. In contrast, the additional MLPA analyses gave no diagnostic yield in case of increased nuchal translucency (NT). Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Proteomics and Down syndrome screening: a validation study
Authors: Koster M. P. H. , Pennings J. L. A. , Imholz S. , Rodenburg W. , Visser G. H. A. , de Vries A. , Schielen P. C. J. I.
Published: September 2010

Objective

In a previous discovery study, we identified seven potential screening markers for Down syndrome (DS). Here, we report on an extended study to validate the discriminative potential of these markers.

Methods

Concentrations of the seven analytes were measured using bead‐based multiplexed immunoassays in maternal serum from 27 DS pregnancies and 27 matched controls. Control samples were matched to the cases by gestational age (exact day), maternal weight ( ± 5 kg), and maternal age ( ± 1 year) and by closest sample date. Prediction values were obtained for current screening markers [pregnancy‐associated plasma protein A (PAPP‐A), free beta human chorionic gonadotrophin (fβ‐hCG) and nuchal translucency (NT)] and seven markers identified before based on concentration fold ratios between DS and controls. Models were fitted based on data of the discovery study or this study and also tested on both datasets.

Results

A significantly higher fold ratio was only found for epidermal growth factor (EGF) (−1.96; p = 0.006). In the prediction model for the current dataset, EGF improved the detection rate (DR) of DS by 5.7% [at a fixed 5% false‐positive rate (FPR)] when added to the currently used screening markers.

Conclusions

Validation of previously identified biomarkers only confirmed EGF for further consideration as a DS screening marker. This underlines the importance of validating biomarkers; in this study, limiting the range of plausible biomarkers to only one suitable biomarker. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Assessment of regional right ventricular longitudinal functions in fetus using velocity vector imaging technology
Authors: Pu Da‐rong , Zhou Qi‐chang , Zhang Ming , Peng Qing‐hai , Zeng Shi , Xu Gan‐qiong
Published: September 2010

Objectives

The velocity vector imaging (VVI) technique is useful to assess regional myocardial mechanics. The aim of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of this technology in assessing regional right ventricular longitudinal functions in the fetus and to establish a nomogram of the right ventricle (RV).

Methods

We studied 170 healthy fetuses that were divided into five groups based on gestational age. Dynamic digital images of four chambers were collected and analyzed off‐line. The longitudinal VVI parameters were calculated in the right free wall and ventricular septum, respectively.

Results

A total of 151 out of 170 fetuses (89%) were successfully analyzed using VVI, with good inter‐ and intra‐observer agreements. Normal values for velocity, strain, and strain rate were established. The tissue velocity gradually decreased from basal to apical segment (P < 0.05), whereas strain and strain rate remained stable. The tissue velocity increased with gestational age (P < 0.05), whereas strain and strain rate were stable (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

Fetal myocardial velocity, strain, and strain rate measurements are easy to obtain and are reproducible. From mid‐to‐late gestation, the longitudinal tissue velocity of the RV increases with gestational age, whereas strain and strain rate remain stable. These results indicate that myocardial contractility is established in mid‐gestation and remains constant throughout gestation. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Fetal ocular measurements by MRI
Authors: Li Xiao Bing , Kasprian Gregor , Hodge Jacqueline C. , Jiang Xiao Li , Bettelheim Dieter , Brugger Peter C. , Prayer Daniela
Published: September 2010

Objective

To present fetal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) ocular measurement ranges by gestational age (GA) in normal and growth‐restricted fetuses.

Methods

A total of 298 pregnant women from the 18th to the 39th week of gestation were imaged using MRI. Ocular measurements including binocular distance (BOD), interocular distance (IOD), transverse ocular diameter (OD) and anterior–posterior (AP) OD were measured. The curve estimation analyses for linear, logarithmic and quadratic models were performed. The ocular measurements of the fetuses with intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) were compared with that of the normal fetuses.

Results

The fetal eye resembles an ellipsoid with significantly longer OD and shorter AP (t= − 22.07,p< 0.001). The quadratic model was the best model in predicting growth of the fetal BOD, IOD, OD and AP. The ocular measurements of the fetuses with IUGR were significantly different from that of the normal fetuses (BOD:t= 3.58,p< 0.001; IOD:t= 5.73,p< 0.001; OD:t= 3.52,p< 0.001; AP:t= 2.19,p< 0.05).

Conclusion

Fetal ocular growth can be readily assessed by fetal MRI. Using the normative data provided in this study, fetal ocular anomalies may be detected. Ocular size is frequently reduced in the condition of IUGR, with potential pathologic impact on postnatal vision. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Photovoltaics literature survey (no. 80)
Authors: Shrestha Santosh
Published: September 2010

In order to help keep readers up‐to‐date in the field each issue of Progress in Photovoltaics will contain a list of recently published journal articles most relevant to its aims and scope. This list is drawn from an extremely wide range of journals, including IEEE Transactions on Electron Devices, Journal of Applied Physics, Applied Physics Letters, Progress in Photovoltaics and Solar Energy Materials and Solar Cells. To assist the reader, the list is separated into broad categories, but please note that these classifications are by no means strict. Also note that inclusion in the list is not an endorsement of a paper's quality. If you have any suggestions please email Santosh Shrestha at s.shrestha@unsw.edu.au.

magnified image
Evaluation of changes in serum protein profiles during neoadjuvant chemotherapy in HER2‐positive breast cancer using an LC‐MALDI‐TOF/MS procedure
Authors: Mazouni Chafika , Baggerly Keith , Hawke David , Tsavachidis Spyros , André Fabrice , Buzdar Aman U. , Martin Pierre‐Marie , Kobayashi Ryuji , Pusztai Lajos
Published: September 2010

Comparison of protein profiles of sera acquired before and after preoperative chemotherapy for breast cancer may reveal tumor markers that could be used to monitor tumor response. In this study, we analyzed pre‐ and post‐chemotherapy protein profiles of sera from 39 HER2‐postive breast cancer patients (n=78 samples) who received 6 months of preoperative chemotherapy using LC‐MALDI‐TOF/MS technology. We detected qualitative and quantitative differences in pair‐wise comparison of pre‐ and post chemotherapy samples that were different in patients who achieved pathological complete response (pCR, n=21) compared with those with residual disease (n=18). We identified 2329 and 3152 peaks as differentially expressed in the pre‐chemotherapy samples of the responders and non‐responders. Comparison of matching pre‐ and post‐chemotherapy samples identified 34 (32 decreased, two increased) and 304 peaks (157 decreased, 147 increased) that significantly changed (p<0.01, false discovery rate ≤20%) after treatment in responders and non‐responders, respectively. The top 11 most significantly altered peptide peaks with the greatest change in intensity were positively identified. These corresponded to eight proteins including α‐2‐macroglobulin, complement 3, hemopexin, and serum amyloid P in the responder group and chains C and A of apolipoprotein A‐I, hemopexin precursor, complement C, and amyloid P component in the non‐responding groups. All proteins decreased after therapy, except chain C apolipoprotein A and hemopexin precursor that increased. These results suggest that changes in serum protein levels occur in response to chemotherapy and these changes partly appear different in patients who are highly sensitive to chemotherapy compared with those with lesser response.
Tackling Quantitation: A Report on the Annual Spring Workshop of the HUPO‐PSI 28–30 March 2010, Seoul, South Korea
Authors: Orchard Sandra , Jones Andrew , Albar Juan‐Pablo , Cho Sang Yun , Kwon Kyung‐Hoon , Lee Cheolju , Hermjakob Henning
Published: September 2010

The annual Spring Workshop of the HUPO‐PSI took place in Korea, where the Mass Spectrometry and Protein Separations groups joined forces to tackle the issue of the consistent reporting of quantitative proteomic data generated by mass‐spectrometry‐based technologies. A preliminary mzQuantML schema was drafted which, when completed and tested, will complement the existing mzIdentML schema for reporting protein identifications. The Molecular Interactions group concentrated on the implementations of the PSICQUIC (PSI Common Query InterfaCe) service that allows users to simultaneously query interaction data across multiple participating resources. Work was also undertaken to update the MIAPE guidelines, in response to feedback from the editors of a number of proteomic journals.
Allyl sulfonium salt as a novel initiator for active cationic polymerization of epoxide by shooting with radicals species
Authors: Yilmaz Faruk , Sudo Atsushi , Endo Takeshi
Published: September 2010

A rapid cationic polymerization of cyclohexene oxide that completed within a few minutes was achieved by a new initiation system that involves (1) a copper‐catalyzed reduction of benzoyl peroxide by an ascorbic acid derivative that generates free radicals and (2) capture of the radicals by allyl sulfonium salt having hexafluoroantimonate (SbF) as a counter anion, followed by fragmentation of sulfonium radical cation, from which a super acid HSbF6 was produced to initiate the rapid polymerization. The key factor in designing an efficient allyl sulfonium salt was attachment of an electron withdrawing ester group at the allyl group, of which ability to stabilize the formed radical can enhance the efficiency in trapping radicals by the allylic salt. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 48: 4178–4183, 2010
Multistimuli‐responsive hyperbranched poly(ether amine)s
Authors: Yu Bing , Jiang Xuesong , Yin Guilin , Yin Jie
Published: September 2010

Multistimuli‐responsive hyperbranched poly(ether amine)s (hPEAs) were successfully synthesized through nucleophilic addition/ring‐opening reaction of commercial diglycidyl ether and amine via one‐pot synthesis. In aqueous solution, these hPEAs exhibited very sharp response to temperature, pH, and ionic strength, with well‐tunable cloud point (CP). Through changing the poly(ethylene oxide) (PEO) chain content of hPEAs, pH, and ionic strength, the CP could be adjustable from 35 to 100 °C, and increased with the increasing of PEO content, the decreasing of pH and ionic strength. The CP of hPEAs aqueous solution presents a linear relationship to the PEO content in pH range from 6.6 to 8.0. Dynamic light scattering (DLS) investigation indicated that these hPEAs dispersed in aqueous solution to form the stable nanomicelles, whose aggregation can be controlled by temperature, pH, and ionic strength. Moreover, the obtained hPEAs contain reactive amino groups in periphery and hydroxyl groups inside, which can be further functionalized. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 48: 4252–4261, 2010
Rare earths/main group metal alkyls catalytic systems for the 1,4‐trans stereoselective coordinative chain transfer polymerization of isoprene
Authors: Valente Andreia , Zinck Philippe , Vitorino Marta J. , Mortreux A. , Visseaux M.
Published: September 2010

A series of lanthanum and neodymium complexes comprising the half‐lanthanidocenes Cp*La(BH4)2(THF)2 (Cp* = C5Me5) (1) and Cp*Nd(BH4)2(THF)2 (2), the trisborohydrides La(BH4)3(THF)3 (3) and Nd(BH4)3(THF)3 (4), the trichlorides LaCl3(THF)3 (5) and NdCl3(THF)3 (6), the triisopropoxides La(OiPr)3 (7) and Nd(OiPr)3 (8), and the triaryloxide Nd(OC6H3‐tBu2‐2,6)3 (9) has been assessed for the chain transfer polymerization of isoprene. A transmetalation process is occurring efficiently with the borohydride complexes in the presence of magnesium dialkyl. A gradual decrease of the 1,4‐trans stereoselectivity of the reaction is observed at the benefit of 3,4‐selectivity with increasing quantities of magnesium dialkyl. This can be at least partially attributed to the growth of 3,4 polyisoprene units onto the magnesium atom. By combining dialkylmagnesium and trialkylaluminum, a 1,4‐trans stereospecific reversible coordinative chain transfer polymerization of isoprene is reached using the half‐lanthanocene Cp*La(BH4)2(THF)2. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2010
Synthesis and characterization of poly(isobutylene‐co‐isoprene)‐derived macro‐monomers
Authors: Xiao Shude , Parent J. Scott , Whitney Ralph A. , Knight Lisa K.
Published: September 2010

Allylic halide displacement from brominated poly(isobutylene‐co‐isoprene) (BIIR) by carboxylate nucleophiles is used to prepare elastomer derivatives containing pendant polymerizable functionality. These solvent‐borne substitutions are conducted under homogeneous and phase‐transfer catalyzed reaction conditions to synthesize acrylate and vinylbenzoate esters in high yield. The resulting macro‐monomer derivatives are shown to crosslink efficiently with peroxide initiation to give high modulus, thermoset products that cannot otherwise be accessed from isobutylene‐rich elastomers. The extent of cure, as measured by the storage modulus of the vulcanizate, scales with RCH=CH2 content, and can be extended by co‐oligomerization of pendant unsaturation with that contained within multifunctional coagents. An alternate approach involving the introduction of pendant sulfonyl azide functionality is described, wherein thermal decomposition to nitrene intermediates supports an efficient crosslinking process. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem, 2010