bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Screw Orientation and Foam Density Interaction in Pullout of Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion Plates
Authors: Patacxil Wyzscx Merfil , Palmer Daniel Kyle , Rios David , Inceoglu Serkan , Williams Paul Allen , Cheng Wayne K
Published: July 2013

Introduction

Previous studies demonstrated increases in single screw pullout strength with increases in material density. Recent anterior cervical interbody fusion plate pullout studies utilizing a polyurethane foam block model have shown that alterations in screw insertion angle from straight-in are not associated with an increase in pullout strength. The purpose of this study is to characterize the pullout strength of an anterior lumber interbody fusion (ALIF) plate when installed at various screw angles in different simulated bone densities.

Materials and methods: Ninety ALIF plate pullout tests were performed using three common screw insertion angles in polyurethane (PU) foam blocks of three densities: 0.08 g/cm3, 0.16 g/cm3 and 0.24 g/cm3, simulating severely, mildly and nonosteoporotic cancellous bone, respectively. Plates were pulled out axially at 1 mm/min and pullout strength and stiffness compared.

Results

Doubling foam density yielded 2.6-fold and 3.0-fold increases (p < 0.05) in mean pullout strength and stiffness, respectively. Tripling foam density yielded 4.5-fold and 5.3-fold increases (p < 0.05) in mean pullout strength and stiffness, respectively. Screw angle placement contributed relatively less to pullout strength and stiffness compared to PU foam density.

Conclusion

In our model, ALIF plate pullout strength and stiffness appear to be more associated with increased foam block density than screw trajectory. Vertebral bone density should be a strong consideration in preoperative planning for ALIF with plating. Screw trajectory should be based on vascular anatomy and screw placement safety, rather than the classic lateral-to-medial trajectory.

Patacxil WM, Palmer DK, Rios D, Inceoglu S, Williams PA, Cheng WK. Screw Orientation and Foam Density Interaction in Pullout of Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion Plates. The Duke Orthop J 2012;2(1):35-39.
Posterior Tibial Tendon Excision and Postoperative Pain in Adult Flatfoot Reconstruction: A Preliminary Report
Authors: DeOrio James K , Nunley James A , Demetracopoulos Constantine A
Published: July 2013

Background

Posterior tibial tendon insufficiency plays a large role in the pathogenesis of adult acquired flatfoot deformity (AAFD) in select patients. Transfer of the flexor digitorum longus is indicated to compensate for the loss of posterior tibial tendon function; however the role of resection of the degenerated posterior tibial tendon remains unclear. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of posterior tibial tendon resection on pain relief following surgical treatment of stage II AAFD.

Methods

All patients who underwent surgical treatment for stage II AAFD and posterior tibial tendon insufficiency were retrospectively reviewed. Patients were divided into two groups based on whether the degenerated posterior tibial tendon was resected or left in situ. Twenty-seven patients with a mean follow-up of 13.3 months were included in the study. A visual analog scale (VAS) score for pain was recorded for each patient pre-operatively and at final follow-up. Concomitant surgical procedures and the incidence of postoperative medial arch pain were also reported. Preoperative deformity and postoperative deformity correction were assessed by measuring the anteroposterior talar-first metatarsal angle, the talonavicular (TN) coverage angle, the lateral talar-first metatarsal angle, and the calcaneal pitch onstandard weight bearing radiographs.

Results

Eleven patients underwent FDL transfer and resection of the posterior tibial tendon (PTT resection group), and 16 patients underwent FDL transfer without resection of the posterior tibial tendon (PTT in situ group). A greater percentage of patients in the PTT resection group underwent lateral column lengthening (100 vs 18.8%, p < 0.001), and a greater percentage of patients in the PTT in situ group had a medial displacement calcaneal osteotomy performed (93.8 vs 18.2%, p < 0.001). There was no difference in preoperative VAS pain scores between groups, and all patients demonstrated excellent pain relief postoperatively. No patient in either group reported medial arch pain postoperatively. Radiographic assessment revealed similar deformity preoperatively in both groups, and patients in the PTT resection group demonstrated a greater correction of the TN coverage angle (9.8 ± 4.6 vs 6.0 ± 4.1 degrees, p = 0.041).

Conclusion

Resection of the PTT did not significantly affect postoperative VAS scores at final follow-up. It did however, correlate with a slightly greater correction of the TN coverage angle. There were no instances of pain along the medial ankle or medial arch of the foot in either group postoperatively. Future prospective studies are needed to determine whether resection of the PTT is necessary at the time of surgery for stage II AAFD.

Demetracopoulos CA, DeOrio JK, Nunley JA II. Posterior Tibial Tendon Excision and Postoperative Pain in Adult Flatfoot Reconstruction: A Preliminary Report. The Duke Orthop J 2013;3(1):20-24.
Setting Time Comparison of Four Antimicrobial Laden Calcium Sulfate Plasters
Authors: Inceoglu Serkan , Kroger Jared , Beaufond Pierre , Maskiewicz Victoria , Cheng Wayne , Brier-Jones Justin Eugene
Published: July 2013

Background

The surgeon may implant calcium sulfate pellets (aka gypsum) as a resorbable antimicrobial vehicle at the surgical site in severe cases of osteomyelitis. Gypsum setting times with or without antibiotic additives are found scattered throughout the literature, but often factors known to alter setting time are either not disclosed or not held constant between experiments. To our knowledge, no prior study compares the setting time of calcium sulfate plaster mixed with the four commonly used antibiotics under constant conditions as presented here.

Purpose

To compare the setting times of calcium sulfate hemihydrate mixtures containing vancomycin, cefazolin, tobramycin, or amphotericin B.

Materials and methods

Groups consisted of samples comprised of 6.3 gm calcium sulfate hemihydrate (CSH) mixed with approximately 1/4th a vial of lyophilized antimicrobial (vancomycin, cefazolin, tobramycin or amphotericin B) with CSH powder to normal saline ratio of 1.7 gm/ml and mixed for 30 seconds at controlled speed and humidity. Each sample initial setting time (Ti) and final setting time (Tf) were established by Gillmore needles method according to ASTM standard C266- 08 apparatus specifications.

Results

Kruskal-Wallis one-way analysis of variance by ranks revealed that antibiotic type affected the initial and final setting times of gypsum (p < 0.05). Post hoc analysis using Dunn's multiple comparisons indicated that there was no difference between control Ti (7.2 ± 1.1 min) and that of vancomycin or cefazolin group (9.8 ± 1.7 or 14.2 ± 1.3 min, respectively, p > 0.05), but the Ti of the tobramycin and amphotericin B groups (31.8 ± 5.7 and 140.4 ± 18.0 min) differed from the control Ti (p < 0.05). Likewise, there was no difference of control Tf (p > 0.05, 12.2 ± 1.1 min) when compared to vancomycin or cefazolin groups (22.2 ± 6.9 or 25.7 ± 4.1 min), but that the Tf of tobramycin and amphotericin B groups (76.3 ± 5.9 and 200.0 ± 21.1 min) each differed from the control group (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

This experiment is aimed to help surgeons plan when they should begin preparing their calcium sulfate antibiotic beads during surgery. As a general guideline, allow 15 minutes to set when adding a 1 gm vial of vancomycin or cefazolin, 30 minutes for adding a 1.2 gm vial tobramycin, and 2.5 hours for adding a 50 mg vial of amphotericin B.

Kroger J, Beaufond P, Inceoglu S, Maskiewicz V, Cheng W, Brier-Jones JE. Setting Time Comparison of Four Antimicrobial Laden Calcium Sulfate Plasters. The Duke Orthop J 2013;3(1):36-40.
Impaired Function and in vivo Imaging of NF-κB Activation in a Mouse Model of Knee Joint Inflammation
Authors: Mata Brian A , Bowles Robby , Mwangi Timothy K , Setton Lori A
Published: July 2013

Objective

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a consequence of not only mechanical events such as joint instability, but also biological events that result in the upregulation of proinflammatory and catabolic mediators. The intra-articular injection of monoiodoacetate (MIA) has been widely used to induce OA. NF-κB activity has been linked to increased expression of proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-6, etc), metalloproteinases (MMPs), chemokines and inducible enzymes, which all contribute to cartilage degradation and subsequent OA. The goal of this study was to use in vivo imaging (IVIS) of NF-κB activation to track longitudinal changes due to inflammation in a rodent model of OA.

Design

Twenty-four (24) NF-κB-luc reporter transgenic mice [BALB/C-Tg (NF-κB-RE-luc)-Xen, age 7-8 weeks] were given intra-articular knee injections with either MIA (n = 12) or normal saline (n = 12) to serve as a control. IVIS and ex vivo imaging of NF-κB and tactile allodynia measurements were performed, and correlations were recorded preoperatively and on days 1, 3, 7, 14, 21 and 28. Animals were euthanized on days 3 and 28 for ex vivo imaging, and tissues were stored for future immunohistochemical evaluation.

Results

NF-κB activity was significantly elevated in the MIA group on days 1 and 3 (p < 0.05) when compared to preoperative levels and was significantly elevated compared to the normal saline group on day 3 (p < 0.05). There was a significant increase in tactile allodynia in the MIA group compared to preoperative levels, as well as compared to the normal saline group at all time points (p < 0.05). In vivo NF-κB luminescence correlated with tactile allodynia (p < 0.0001) and with ex vivo imaging (p < 0.0001).

Conclusion

This study validates the use of IVIS imaging of NF-κB activity in a MIA rodent model of arthritis and provides evidence for the use of NF-κB luminescence imaging as an imaging biomarker of pain sensitivities. This can be utilized in the future to further elucidate NF-κB's role in inflammation and OA. In addition, it can help evaluate potential therapeutic agents that target NF-κB.

Mata BA, Bowles R, Mwangi TK, Setton LA. Impaired Function and in vivo Imaging of NF-κB Activation in a Mouse Model of Knee Joint Inflammation. The Duke Orthop J 2013;3(1):41-47.
MRI Determination of Knee Effusion Volume: A Cadaveric Study
Authors: Wittstein Jocelyn , Spritzer Charles , Garrett William E
Published: July 2013

Background

There is currently limited literature on quantitative determination of knee effusion volume using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Purpose

To describe a method of knee effusion volume determination using MRI generated models and to demonstrate accuracy of this technique.

Materials and methods

Using axial T2-weighted turbo spin echo and sagittal SPACE sequences, MRIs of three cadaver knees with multiple saline loads were obtained. Effusions models were created and effusion volumes were estimated using the Rhinoceros software. Estimated and known effusion volumes were compared using a bivariate correlation analysis.

Results

The SPACE sequence and T2WTSE estimates were highly correlated with the known volumes (R = 0.996 and 0.993 respectively, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

MRI-generated models of knee effusions provide accurate estimates of knee effusion volumes.

Clinical relevance

MRI determination of knee effusion volume may provide a useful clinical outcomes tool.

Wittstein J, Spritzer C, Garrett WE. MRI Determination of Knee Effusion Volume: A Cadaveric Study. The Duke Orthop J 2013;3(1):67-70.
Bilateral Proximal Tibial Stress Fractures at the Epiphyseal Scar
Authors: Garrett William E , Siparsky Patrick N , Kanaan Matthew G
Published: July 2013

Siparsky PN, Kanaan MG, Garrett WE Jr. Bilateral Proximal Tibial Stress Fractures at the Epiphyseal Scar. The Duke Orthop J 2013;3(1):71-73.
Hand and Microvascular Replantation Call Availability Study: A National Real-time Survey of Level 1 and 2 Trauma Centers
Authors: Mangiapani Daniel S , Peterson Bret C , Kellogg Ryan , Leversedge Fraser J
Published: July 2013

Purpose

The inconsistency of subspecialty emergency call services is a growing concern as declining reimbursements, increased legal risk, and challenging social and professional issues present a deterrent to call panel participation. This study assessed call availability of hand and microvascular replantation surgery at all level I and II trauma centers in the US.

Materials and methods

Between May and December 2010, all level I (n = 137) and level II (n = 153) trauma centers across the US were contacted by telephone. Phone contact was unannounced; responders were invited to participate in our IRBapproved anonymous survey regarding hand and microvascular replantation emergency coverage specific to their hospital.

Results: Level 1 centers: 117 of 137 (85%) participated, of which 64 (54.7%) had immediate access for hand surgery and microvascular replantation services. Six hospitals provided services 15 to 31 days per month and 3 hospitals supported 1 to 15 days per month. Ten hospitals indicated an inconsistent coverage which was difficult to estimate and 34 hospitals reported no coverage.

Level 2 centers

132 of 153 (86.3%) participated, of which 38 (29%) had immediate access for hand surgery and microvascular replantation services. Seven hospitals provided services 15 to 31 days per month and 3 hospitals for 1 to 15 days per month. 84 hospitals reported no specific coverage protocol.

Conclusion

Consistent on-call availability for emergency hand and microvascular replantation services remains a challenge across the US:

• 54.7% of level I trauma centers had immediate access to emergency hand and microvascular replantation services although many hospitals had intermittent coverage;

• 29% of level II trauma centers had immediate access to emergency hand and microvascular replantation services although many hospitals had intermittent coverage. Over 50% had no specific coverage protocol;

• Many hospitals indicated the presence of subspecialty hand surgery coverage, however microvascular replantation resources were not available consistently;

• While not confirmed, the current study findings suggest that a more clearly defined and coordinated system of hand surgery and microvascular replantation emergency call coverage will likely improve the efficiency of a limited resource and, ultimately, improve patient care.

Peterson BC, Mangiapani DS, Kellogg R, Leversedge FJ. Hand and Microvascular Replantation Call Availability Study: A National Real-time Survey of Level 1 and 2 Trauma Centers. The Duke Orthop J 2013;3(1):88-92.
Distraction Plating for the Treatment of Highly Comminuted Distal Radius Fractures in Elderly Patients
Authors: Katolik Leonid I , Hanel Douglas P , Wartinbee Daniel A , Ruch David
Published: July 2013

Purpose

To evaluate the use of internal distraction plating for the management of comminuted, intra-articular distal radius fractures in patients over 60 years of age at two level one trauma centers. Our hypothesis was that distraction plating of comminuted distal radius fractures in the elderly would result in acceptable outcomes regarding range of motion, disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand (DASH) score, and radiographic parameters and would thereby provide the upper extremity surgeon with another option for the treatment of these fractures.

Materials and methods

A retrospective review was performed on 33 patients over 60 years of age with comminuted distal radius fractures treated by internal distraction plating at two level 1 trauma centers. Patients were treated with internal distraction plating across the radiocarpal joint. At the time of final follow-up, radiographs were evaluated for ulnar variance, radial inclination, and palmar tilt. Range of motion, complications and DASH scores were also obtained.

Results

Thirty-three patients with a mean age of 70 years were treated with distraction plating for comminuted distal radius fractures. At final follow-up, all fractures had healed and radiographs demonstrated mean palmar tilt of 5° and mean positive ulnar variance of 0.6 mm. Mean radial inclination was 20°. Mean values for wrist flexion and extension were 46° and 50° respectively. Mean pronation and supination were 79° and 77° respectively. At the final follow-up, the mean DASH score was 32.

Conclusion

In the elderly, distraction plating is an effective method of treatment for comminuted, osteoporotic distal radius fractures.

Level of evidence

Therapeutic, Level IV (Retrospective case series).

Richard MJ, Katolik LI, Hanel DP, Wartinbee DA, Ruch D. Distraction Plating for the Treatment of Highly Comminuted Distal Radius Fractures in Elderly Patients. The Duke Orthop J 2013;3(1):93-98.
Field measurements of trace gases emitted by prescribed fires in southeastern US pine forests using an open-path FTIR system
Authors: Akagi S. K. , Burling I. R. , Mendoza A. , Johnson T. J. , Cameron M. , Griffith D. W. T. , Paton-Walsh C. , Weise D. R. , Reardon J. , Yokelson R. J.
Published: July 2013

Abstract. We report trace-gas emission factors from three pine-understory prescribed fires in South Carolina, US measured during the fall of 2011. The fires were more intense than many prescribed burns because the fuels included mature pine stands not subjected to prescribed fire in decades that were lit following an extended drought. The emission factors were measured with a fixed open-path Fourier transform infrared (OP-FTIR) system that was deployed on the fire control lines. We compare these emission factors to those measured with a roving, point sampling, land-based FTIR and an airborne FTIR that were deployed on the same fires. We also compare to emission factors measured by a similar OP-FTIR system deployed on savanna fires in Africa. The data suggest that the method used to sample smoke can strongly influence the relative abundance of the emissions that are observed. The majority of the fire emissions were lofted in the convection column and they were sampled by the airborne FTIR along with the downwind chemistry. The roving, ground-based, point sampling FTIR measured the contribution of actively located individual residual smoldering combustion fuel elements scattered throughout the burn site. The OP-FTIR provided a ~30 m path-integrated sample of emissions transported to the fixed path via complex ground-level circulation. The OP-FTIR typically probed two distinct combustion regimes, "flaming-like" (immediately after adjacent ignition and before the adjacent plume achieved significant vertical development) and "smoldering-like." These two regimes are denoted "early" and "late", respectively. The emission factors from all three systems were plotted versus modified combustion efficiency and for some species (e.g. CH4 and CH3OH) they fit a single trend suggesting that the different emission factors for these species were mainly due to the specific mix of flaming and smoldering that each system sampled. For other species, the different fuels sampled also likely contributed to platform differences in emission factors. The path-integrated sample of the ground-level smoke layer adjacent to the fire provided by the OP-FTIR also provided our best estimate of fire-line exposure to smoke for wildland fire personnel. We provide a table of estimated fire-line exposures for numerous known air toxics based on synthesizing results from several studies. Our data suggest that peak exposures are more likely to challenge permissible exposure limits for wildland fire personnel than shift-average (8 h) exposures.
Vertically resolved aerosol properties by multi wavelengths lidar measurements
Authors: Perrone M. R. , De Tomasi F. , Gobbi G. P.
Published: July 2013

Abstract. A new approach is introduced to characterize the dependence on altitude of the aerosol fine mode radius (Rf) and of the fine mode contribution (η) to the aerosol optical thickness (AOT) by three-wavelength lidar measurements. The introduced approach is based on the graphical method of Gobbi et al. (2007), which was applied to AERONET spectral extinction observations and relies on the combined analysis of the Ångstrom exponent (å) and its spectral curvature Δå. Lidar measurements at 355, 532 and 1064 nm were used in this study to retrieve the vertical profiles of å and Δå and to determine the dependence on altitude of Rf and η (532 nm) from the å–Δå combined analysis. Lidar measurements were performed at the Mathematics and Physics Department of Universita' del Salento, in south eastern Italy. Aerosol from continental Europe, the Atlantic, northern Africa, and the Mediterranean Sea are often advected over south eastern Italy and as a consequence, mixed advection patterns leading to aerosol properties varying with altitude are dominant. The proposed approach was applied to eleven measurement days to demonstrate its feasibility in different aerosol load conditions. The selected-days were characterized by AOTs spanning the 0.23–0.67, 0.15–0.41, and 0.04–0.25 range at 355, 532, and 1064 nm, respectively. Lidar ratios varied within the 28–80, 30–70, and 30–55 sr range at 355, 532, and 1064 nm, respectively, for the high variability of the aerosol optical and microphysical properties. å(355 nm, 1064 nm) values retrieved from lidar measurements ranged between 0.12 and 2.5 with mean value ±1 standard deviation equal to 1.4 ± 0.5. Δå varied within the −0.10–0.87 range with mean value equal to 0.1 ± 0.4. Rf and η (532 nm) values spanning the 0.02–0.30 μm and the 0.30–0.99 range, respectively were associated to the å–Δå data points. Rf and η values showed no dependence on the altitude. 72% of the data points were in the Δå–å space delimited by the η and Rf curves varying within 0.70–0.95 and 0.15–0.05 μm, respectively for the dominance of fine mode particles in driving the AOT over south eastern Italy. Volume depolarization vertical profiles retrieved from lidar measurements, aerosol products from AERONET sunphotometer measurements collocated in space and time, the BSC-DREAM model, analytical back trajectories, and satellite images were used to demonstrate the robustness of the proposed method.
Synoptic environment associated with heavy rainfall events on the coastland of Northeast Brazil
Authors: Oliveira P. T. , Lima K. C. , Santos e Silva C. M.
Published: July 2013

Abstract. Northeast Brazil (NEB) has an extensive coastal area, often hit by natural disasters that bring many social and economic losses. The objective of this work was to study the synoptic environment associated with a heavy rainfall event (HRE) on the coastland of NEB. We used daily rainfall data for coastal area of NEB between the states of Rio Grande do Norte and Bahia, divided into two subregions: north and south coastland. This data was obtained from the hydrometeorological network managed by the Agência Nacional de Águas and the daily data reanalysis from the ERAInterim. For the selection of HRE the technique of quantiles was used, thus defined HRE where at least one rain gauge recorded rainfall above 95th percentile. The interannual distribution of events showed occurrence maximum in La Niña years and minimal in El Niño years. The results suggest that the HRE were formed mainly due to the action of upper-level cyclonic vortex, in hight levels, and due to the action to South Atlantic convergence zone, in low levels.
The influence of temperature and seawater carbonate saturation state on 13C–18O bond ordering in bivalve mollusks
Authors: Eagle R. A. , Eiler J. M. , Tripati A. K. , Ries J. B. , Freitas P. S. , Hiebenthal C. , Wanamaker A. D. , Taviani M. , Elliot M. , Marenssi S. , Nakamura K. , Ramirez P. , Roy K.
Published: July 2013

Abstract. The shells of marine mollusks are widely used archives of past climate and ocean chemistry. Whilst the measurement of mollusk δ18O to develop records of past climate change is a commonly used approach, it has proven challenging to develop reliable independent paleothermometers that can be used to deconvolve the contributions of temperature and fluid composition on molluscan oxygen isotope compositions. Here we investigate the temperature dependence of 13C–18O bond abundance, denoted by the measured parameter Δ47, in shell carbonates of bivalve mollusks and assess its potential to be a useful paleothermometer. We report measurements on cultured specimens spanning a range in water temperatures of 5 to 25 °C, and field collected specimens spanning a range of −1 to 29 °C. In addition we investigate the potential influence of carbonate saturation state on bivalve stable isotope compositions by making measurements on both calcitic and aragonitic specimens that have been cultured in seawater that is either supersaturated or undersaturated with respect to aragonite. We find a robust relationship between Δ47 and growth temperature. We also find that the slope of a linear regression through all the Δ47 data for bivalves plotted against seawater temperature is significantly shallower than previously published inorganic and biogenic carbonate calibration studies produced in our laboratory and go on to discuss the possible sources of this difference. We find that changing seawater saturation state does not have significant effect on the Δ47 of bivalve shell carbonate in two taxa that we examined, and we do not observe significant differences between Δ47-temperature relationships between calcitic and aragonitic taxa.
Exploring interacting influences on the silicon isotopic composition of the surface ocean: a case study from the Kerguelen Plateau
Authors: Coffineau N. , De La Rocha C. L. , Pondaven P.
Published: July 2013

Abstract. This study presents 6 new water column profiles of the silicon isotopic composition (δ30Si) of dissolved silicon (DSi) from the Atlantic and the Indian sectors of the Southern Ocean and a variable depth box model of silica cycling in the mixed layer constructed to illuminate the evolution of surface ocean δ30Si over the full course of a year. In keeping with previous observations, δ30Si values ranged from +1.9 to +2.4‰ in the mixed layer (ML), +1.2 to +1.7‰ in Winter Water (WW), and +0.9 to +1.4‰ in Circumpolar Deep Water (CDW). These data also confirmed the occurrence of diminished values for ML δ30Si at low DSi concentrations in early austral autumn on the Kerguelen Plateau. The box model was used to investigate whether these low, post-growing season values of δ30Si were related to input of DSi to the ML from basalt weathering, biogenic silica dissolution (with or without isotopic fractionation), the onset of winter mixing, or some combination of the three. Basalt weathering and fractionation during biogenic silica dissolution could both lower ML δ30Si below what would be expected from the extent of biological uptake of DSi. However, the key driver of the early autumn decrease in δ30Si appears to be the switch from bloom growth (with net removal of DSi and net accumulation of biogenic silica (BSi) biomass) to steady state growth (when slow but continuing production of BSi prevented significant net increase in DSi concentrations with diffusive input of DSi from WW but not decrease in ML δ30Si towards WW values). Lastly, fractionation during dissolution had only a negligible effect on the δ30Si of BSi exported throughout the course of the year, implying that seasonal changes in export efficiency (e.g., favoring the export of bloom BSi vs. the export of BSi produced during other times of the year) strongly influence the δ30Si of BSi accumulating in marine sediments. Altogether, these results suggest that as a paleoceanographic proxy, δ30Si may more reflect the dominant mode of production of the BSi that is exported (i.e. bloom vs. steady state growth) rather than strictly the extent of DSi utilization by diatoms.
Die Entgrenzung von Arbeit und die Transformation raumbezogener Orientierungen – Eine Annäherung in der Region Halle/Leipzig
Authors: Montanari G. , Wiest K. , Wörmer S.
Published: July 2013

Abstract. Major trends in society like flexibilisation, blurring of boundaries between life spheres and subjectification of labour come along with new requirements in individual's everyday life. In the scientific debate it has in contrast hardly been discussed how these trends affect different levels of society beyond social strata like the creative class. Referring to the concepts of reflexive modernity and time-geography the focus of this article is on temporal and spatial aspects of societal change and its effects on everyday life. Based on in-depth interviews and a household survey carried out in different residential areas in the region of Halle-Leipzig the paper points out how blurred borders between "work'' and "life'' affect individuals' space-time activities between new opportunities and new constraints. Here an inner-city neighbourhood and a community in the urban sprawl between Halle and Leipzig are under consideration to highlight different strategies to deal with weakening associations between activities, place and time emerging in different settlement structures.
Through Foucault to a political geography of mediation in the information age
Authors: Klauser F.
Published: July 2013

Abstract. Drawing on Michel Foucault's understanding of power and governmentality, this paper advances an initial reflection aimed at developing a "political geography of mediation'', concerned with the question of what "makes'' and what "happens within'' the imbrications of power and space. This discussion is structured into three main parts. Firstly, the paper considers two levels on which Foucault addresses the question of how (through what means) power is exercised and constituted, relating to the techniques of power on the one hand and to the discursive regimes underpinning and shaping these techniques on the other. Secondly, two ideal typical spatial logics of power are discussed, relating to what Foucault calls apparatuses of discipline and apparatuses of security. This will show how thinking about mediation in a Foucauldian sense allows for a conceptualisation of the imbrications of space and power. Thirdly, the paper advances one specific proposition of how to further pursue from a contemporary geographical perspective Foucault's "technical'' approach to the functioning of power. In so doing, the paper develops a programmatic reflection on power, space and regulation in the information age.
The dynamics of laterally variable subductions: laboratory models applied to the Hellenides
Authors: Guillaume B. , Husson L. , Funiciello F. , Faccenna C.
Published: July 2013

Abstract. We designed three-dimensional dynamically self-consistent laboratory models of subduction to analyse the relationships between overriding plate deformation and subduction dynamics in the upper mantle. We investigated the effects of the subduction of a lithosphere of laterally variable buoyancy on the temporal evolution of trench kinematics and shape, horizontal flow at the top of the asthenosphere, dynamic topography and deformation of the overriding plate. Two subducting units, which correspond to a negatively buoyant oceanic plate and positively buoyant continental one, are juxtaposed via a trench-perpendicular interface (analogue to a tear fault) that is either fully-coupled or shear-stress free. Differential rates of trench retreat, in excess of 6 cm yr−1 between the two units, trigger a more vigorous mantle flow above the oceanic slab unit than above the continental slab unit. The resulting asymmetrical sublithospheric flow shears the overriding plate in front of the tear fault, and deformation gradually switches from extension to transtension through time. The consistency between our models results and geological observations suggests that the Late Cenozoic deformation of the Aegean domain, including the formation of the North Aegean Trough and Central Hellenic Shear zone, results from the spatial variations in the buoyancy of the subducting lithosphere. In particular, the lateral changes of the subduction regime caused by the Early Pliocene subduction of the old oceanic Ionian plate redesigned mantle flow and excited an increasingly vigorous dextral shear underneath the overriding plate. The models suggest that it is the inception of the Kefalonia Fault that caused the transition between an extension dominated tectonic regime to transtension, in the North Aegean, Mainland Greece and Peloponnese. The subduction of the tear fault may also have helped the propagation of the North Anatolian Fault into the Aegean domain.
Viability of Titanium-Titanium Boride Composite as a Biomaterial
Authors: Makau F. M. , Morsi K. , Gude N. , Alvarez R. , Sussman M. , May-Newman K.
Published: July 2013

The use of reinforcements to enhance mechanical properties of titanium such as hardness has been adopted by many researchers. Of these reinforcements, titanium boride has emerged as one of the most suitable reinforcements for titanium which is both chemically and mechanically compatible with the titanium matrix. Despite the extensive work conducted on these types of composites, very little is known about their biocompatibility which has so far precluded their use in bioapplications. The present paper investigates, for the first time, the biocompatibility of powder-processed titanium-titanium boride () composites for use in medical and dental implants and basic studies on fibroblast attachment conducted to assess for this application. The work is intended to serve as an initial step towards understanding the bioresponse of these composites by evaluating cytotoxicity, cellular attachment and morphology, and hemolytic potential. Results indicate that fibroblasts attach, proliferate, and achieve confluency when in contact with the composites, exhibiting normal morphology. Furthermore, the cells show a favorable growth rate when cultured with the composite for 48 hours. The composite demonstrated excellent blood biocompatibility, with a low hemolysis level (0.12% ) when compared with CP Ti (0.17%) and Ti-6Al-4V (0.36%). These findings suggest that composite is biocompatible and further investigation into its suitability as a biomaterial should be considered.
Working With Wilmsen: Paleoindian End Scraper Design and use at Nobles Pond
Authors: Seeman Mark F. , Loebel Thomas J. , Comstock Aaron , Summers Garry L.
Published: July 2013

This study is an investigation of tool design and the organization of work. Here we further test Wilmsen’s (1970) conclusion that early Paleoindian tools—specifically, hafted end scrapers—were redesigned to facilitate the processing of a broader range of resources as colonizing populations moved into the forested environments of eastern North America from the west. We use a large sample from the Nobles Pond site, morphometic variables, and high-powered microwear to evaluate the effects of design and reduction as they bear on this generalization. Results do not support Wilmsen’s model, and, more generally, we conclude that an understanding of form and function in reductive technologies comes not only from an appreciation of the planned, stage-like change that is inherent in the design of reliable tools, but also from a consideration of the many contingencies and particular work situations that arise in the lives of mobile foragers.
1,000 Years of House Change at Cape Espenberg, Alaska: A Case Study in Horizontal Stratigraphy
Authors: Darwent John , Mason Owen K. , Hoffecker John F. , Darwent Christyann M.
Published: July 2013

Cape Espenberg is on the farthest southwestern extent of Kotzebue Sound, Alaska, just above the Arctic Circle, and is a peninsula composed of a series of dune-covered beach ridges. As part of a larger research initiative, extensive mapping to record all cultural features and characterize the topography of approximately 1 km2on the southeastern terminus of the cape was undertaken in 2007 and 2010. The primary purpose of this mapping was to explore the use of the cape for the past 1,200 years using one of the unique aspects of beach-ridge archaeology: horizontal stratigraphy. There were 11 intervals of beach ridge/dune development, and with the exception of one truncated ridge and the modern ridge, Thule-Iñupiaq people built semi-subterranean winter houses on each ridge. A total of 117 house depressions along with related cache pits, artifact scatters, whale bone, and hearths were identified; distribution of house forms indicate that Cape Espenberg has had an unbroken stream of cultural continuity. However, in terms of house architecture and community patterning, it appears that there has been a reduction of certain architectural components over time. Houses also occur more frequently in isolated contexts. Both aspects are coincident with the onset of the Little Ice Age.
A Reassessment of Red Linear Pictographs in the Lower Pecos Canyonlands of Texas
Authors: Boyd Carolyn E. , Castañeda Amanda M. , Koenig Charles W.
Published: July 2013

Red Linear is one of four presently defined prehistoric pictograph styles in the Lower Pecos Canyonlands of southwest Texas and Coahuila, Mexico. Based on interpretation of images and two experimental radiocarbon dates, the style was presumed to have been brought into the region by intrusive bison hunters around 1280 B.P. This would place production of Red Linear after the large, polychromatic Pecos River style paintings (4200–2750 B.P.). However, during a recent rock art recording project we identified Red Linear overlain by presumed older Pecos River style. This prompted our re-examination of Red Linear through analysis of 444 figures from 12 sites. We produced a list of diagnostic attributes for Red Linear and documented stratigraphie relationships through macro- and microscopic field analysis. We identified 38 examples of Red Linear under Pecos River figures, thus inverting the relative chronology for the two styles and forcing a reconsideration of previous assumptions regarding the culture that produced the art. This paper demonstrates the potential afforded by analysis of rock art assemblages to reveal inter- and intrasite patterning of attributes and provide insight into relative chronologies. Further, it cautions against the use of variation in artistic style as a marker for ethnicity.
Fludarabine‐mitoxantrone‐rituximab regimen in untreated intermediate/high‐risk follicular non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma: Experience on 142 patients
Authors: Zinzani Pier Luigi , Pellegrini Cinzia , Broccoli Alessandro , Casadei Beatrice , Argnani Lisa , Pileri Stefano
Published: July 2013

There is no international consensus on front‐line optimal chemotherapy regimen for advanced stage follicular lymphoma (FL) patients, or a clear definition of cure for this disease. Aim of this study was to test the degree of effectiveness and the safety of the regimen containing fludarabine, mitoxantrone, and rituximab in a subset of poor prognosis FL patients with particular focus on the long‐term disease‐free survival. A retrospective study was conducted on 142 intermediate/high‐risk FL patients treated in first‐line with fludarabine, mitoxantrone, and rituximab regimen. Responses, safety, and survival were evaluated. The prognostic value of positron emission tomography (PET) was also investigated in a 56‐patients subset. Overall response rate was 95.5% including 88% of complete responses. With a median follow‐up of 48 months, 18% of patients had disease relapse, yielding an estimated 12‐year disease‐free survival (DFS) of 72%. All cases showed the lymphoma recurrence within 40 months: after this timing the DFS curve presented a plateau. Overall survival was 73% at 12 years. Post‐treatment PET positivity remains a highly significant predictor of disease progression. The observed high rate of complete responses following the use of fludarabine, mitoxantrone‐based regimen in combination with rituximab seems to be the first step to improve DFS. Our study could be the starting point to consider DFS as a potential alternative endpoint of future clinical trials on FL patients. Am. J. Heamtol. 88:E273–E276, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Non‐trisomic homeobox gene expression during craniofacial development in the Ts65Dn mouse model of Down syndrome
Authors: Billingsley Cherie N. , Allen Jared R. , Baumann Douglas D. , Deitz Samantha L. , Blazek Joshua D. , Newbauer Abby , Darrah Andrew , Long Brad C. , Young Brandon , Clement Mark , Doerge R.W. , Roper Randall J.
Published: July 2013

Trisomy 21 in humans causes cognitive impairment, craniofacial dysmorphology, and heart defects collectively referred to as Down syndrome. Yet, the pathophysiology of these phenotypes is not well understood. Craniofacial alterations may lead to complications in breathing, eating, and communication. Ts65Dn mice exhibit craniofacial alterations that model Down syndrome including a small mandible. We show that Ts65Dn embryos at 13.5 days gestation (E13.5) have a smaller mandibular precursor but a normal sized tongue as compared to euploid embryos, suggesting a relative instead of actual macroglossia originates during development. Neurological tissues were also altered in E13.5 trisomic embryos. Our array analysis found 155 differentially expressed non‐trisomic genes in the trisomic E13.5 mandible, including 20 genes containing a homeobox DNA binding domain. Additionally, Sox9, important in skeletal formation and cell proliferation, was upregulated in Ts65Dn mandible precursors. Our results suggest trisomy causes altered expression of non‐trisomic genes in development leading to structural changes associated with DS. Identification of genetic pathways disrupted by trisomy is an important step in proposing rational therapies at relevant time points to ameliorate craniofacial abnormalities in DS and other congenital disorders. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Sinonasal quality of life outcomes after minimally invasive resection of sinonasal and skull‐base tumors
Authors: Harrow Brian R. , Batra Pete S.
Published: July 2013

Background

Minimally invasive endoscopic resection (MIER) has emerged as the standard for surgical management of benign and malignant sinonasal and skull‐base neoplasms. The objective of the present study was to assess sinonasal quality of life (QOL) and to analyze factors that impact symptomatology after surgery.

Methods

This single‐institution observational cohort study was performed on 94 patients over a 3‐year period.

Results

The mean age was 55.2 years, with male:female ratio of 1.5:1. Benign and malignant tumors were observed in 48% and 52% of patients, respectively. The cohort's mean preoperative 20‐item Sino‐Nasal Outcomes Test score (SNOT‐20) was 1.27, decreasing to 0.91 (p = 0.002) at 6 months postoperatively. Patients with benign neoplasms had a lower mean preoperative SNOT‐20 score of 1.11 that decreased to 0.58 (p = 0.002), whereas patients with malignant tumors had a higher mean preoperative SNOT‐20 score of 1.27, decreasing to 1.03 (p = 0.134) at 6 months postoperatively. The SNOT‐20 scores for females improved 0.53 (p = 0.002) compared to 0.23 (p = 0.154) for males at 6 months. Statistically significant sinonasal QOL improvement was noted in nonsmokers (0.62, p = 0.0006), patients with no prior radiation or chemotherapy (0.59, p = 0.0029), and patients with no prior surgery (0.51, p = 0.0012). Multiple variable regression analysis demonstrated that the 2 strongest predictors for lack of SNOT‐20 improvement were previous history of smoking (p < 0.05) and prior radiation and/or chemotherapy (p < 0.01) (R2 = 0.24).

Conclusion

MIER results in overall improvement in SNOT‐20 scores, with greater change being noted in females and in patients with benign tumors. Prior smoking and chemoradiation strongly predict decreased improvement in sinonasal QOL after surgery.
Synthesis and Biological Evaluation of 4‐Phenoxy‐6,7‐disubstituted Quinolines Possessing Semicarbazone Scaffolds as Selective c‐Met Inhibitors
Authors: Qi Baohui , Tao Haiyan , Wu Di , Bai Jinying , Shi Yandan , Gong Ping
Published: July 2013

Novel quinoline derivatives bearing acyclic semicarbazones were prepared and their chemical structures as well as the relative stereochemistry were confirmed. All the synthesized compounds were evaluated for their c‐Met kinase inhibitory activity and their cytotoxicity against the cell lines HT‐29, MKN‐45, and MDA‐MB‐231 in vitro. Several potent compounds were further evaluated against A549 cells. Most compounds displayed moderate to excellent activity, and the structure–activity relationship studies identified the most promising compound 35 as a selective c‐Met kinase inhibitor (IC50 = 4.3 nM). Compound 35 showed a 3.5‐ and 18.8‐fold increase in cytotoxicity in vitro against HT‐29 and A549 cells, respectively, compared to that of foretinib. Poor off‐target effects of compound 35 were further confirmed by the antiproliferative activity against the c‐Met inhibition less sensitive MDA‐MB‐231 cell line (IC50 = 0.77 µM).
Contouring Control of Robot Manipulators Based on Equivalent Errors
Authors: Chen Shyh‐Leh , Chou Chang‐Yan
Published: July 2013

This work is concerned with the contouring control problem of robotic manipulators using the method of equivalent errors. The method was previously proposed for multi‐axis motion systems with emphasis on machine tools applications. It is shown in this paper that the method of equivalent errors is equally applicable to robot manipulators. For robotic systems, a desired path usually is described in terms of the position of the end‐effector (task space), but the system dynamics are described in generalized coordinates (joint space). The proposed method utilizes the forward kinematics to transform the desired path in the task space into that in the joint space. As such, the equivalent errors can be defined easily. Two examples contouring free‐form paths are studied numerically to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method. One is a two‐link robot manipulator, and the other is a 6‐DOF Stewart platform. Three controllers for the system with and without uncertainty are considered. The simulation results demonstrate the excellent performance of the proposed method and verify the effectiveness of its application to the contouring control problem of robotic systems, even with uncertainty and higher degrees of freedom.
Theory of Mind in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: Do Siblings Matter?
Authors: Matthews Nicole L. , Goldberg Wendy A. , Lukowski Angela F.
Published: July 2013

Research indicates a positive relation between the sibling constellation and theory of mind (ToM) development in typically developing (TD) children. Less is known about this association in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The current study examined the association among the presence and number of siblings, birth order, and false belief (FB) understanding in children with ASD and a TD comparison group. Two FB tasks (change of contents and change of location) and the Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test were administered to 57 children with ASD and 28 TD children during a home visit. One parent of each child reported on demographics and the sibling constellation. Separate hierarchical regressions controlled for age, receptive language ability, and scores on the Social Communication Questionnaire. In children with ASD, no association was observed between presence or number of siblings and ToM. However, the presence of older (but not younger) siblings was found to be positively associated with ToM. Children with ASD who had at least one older sibling performed similarly to the TD group, whereas children with ASD who had no older siblings performed significantly worse than the TD group. These findings indicate an advantage for FB performance in children with ASD who have an older sibling. They may bear on decisions to include older siblings or peers in intervention programs and may also contribute to a more complete understanding of the origins of individual differences in ToM ability in children with ASD. Autism Res 2013, ●●: ●●–●●. © 2013 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Surgical sepsis
Authors: MacFie J
Published: July 2013

Sepsis matters