bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Functionalized magnetic nanoparticles as new adsorption materials for arsenic removal from polluted waters
Authors: Saiz Juan , Bringas Eugenio , Ortiz Inmaculada
Published: May 2014

BACKGROUND

One of the most harmful pollutants to human health present in natural water is arsenic. In this work magnetic silica/magnetite nanoparticles functionalized with aminopropyl groups incorporating Fe3+ (S1‐F3) were investigated for their suitability as materials to adsorb As5+ and As3+ from polluted groundwater.

RESULTS

Magnetite nanoparticles obtained by a co‐precipitation method were coated with a mesoporous silica layer generated by hydrolysis and condensation of tetraethyl orthosilicate. The resultant material was grafted with amino derivatives coordinated with Fe3+. The synthesis was confirmed by FT‐IR, TGA and BET analyses. After analysis of the affinity of solids with different degrees of functionalization towards arsenate and arsenite species, the material S1‐F3 resulted in maximum arsenic adsorption capacities (14.7 ± 0.3 mg As3+g‐1 and 121 ± 4.1 mg As5+g‐1). The adsorption equilibrium was satisfactorily described by the Langmuir model and exhibited low sensitivity to temperatures in the range 288–308K. Kinetic data were correlated with a pseudo‐second‐order kinetic model based on solid capacity that considers the rate of the surface reaction as the rate‐limiting step.

CONCLUSION

The promising results confirm that the material S1‐F3 is an effective adsorbent for the removal of arsenate from polluted water. More research is being conducted to analyse the influence of competing anions and sorbent regeneration. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry.
Separation of naphthenic acid from an oil‐phase using novel magnetic composite particles
Authors: Akhtar Zatoun , Waters Julian A , Pérez de Ortiz E Susana
Published: May 2014

BACKGROUND

Ion exchange has been reported as a feasible process for naphthenic acid (NA) separation from distillate fractions of acidic crude oil. In this work a cross‐linked polymer functionalised with amino groups was designed for NA separation from organic solvents and the derived nanoparticles (PP) were used in the preparation of magnetic composite particles (MCP). Particles were characterised for size, zeta potential and amino group concentration; equilibrium and kinetic results were obtained over a wide range of conditions.

RESULTS

Loading capacity of MCP was higher than that of PP. Both particles extracted 80–92% NA; extraction using MCP reached equilibrium in less than 10 min whereas PP required hours. MCP loading capacity was an order of magnitude higher than that of commercial particles and equilibration time more than one order of magnitude lower. Kinetics of extraction, particle loading and the mechanism of extraction are discussed in terms of particle characteristics. Recovery of NA from MCP reached 98% and particles could be reused.

CONCLUSIONS

MCP extracted more than 90% NA in a few minutes and their loading capacity was an order of magnitude higher than that of commercial particles. © 2014 Society of Chemical Industry.
Diagnostic accuracy of transient hepatic attenuation differences on computed tomography scans for acute cholangitis in patients with malignant disease
Authors: Sugishita Toshiya , Higuchi Ryota , Morita Satoru , Ota Takehiro , Yamamoto Masakazu
Published: May 2014

Background

Few reports have assessed the accuracy of transient hepatic attenuation differences (THAD) in the arterial phase of computed tomography (CT) in diagnosing acute cholangitis (AC). We examined the diagnostic accuracy of THAD in AC in patients with malignant disease.

Methods

We retrospectively examined the records of 123 consecutive patients (73 men, 50 women; mean age, 69 [range, 43–91] years) who underwent dynamic CT 3 days before biliary drainage for malignant hepatobiliary disease between 2006 and 2011. We examined the diagnostic ability of THAD for AC and assessed the relationship between THAD and AC severity.

Results

Acute cholangitis was present in 45% of patients. The sensitivity and specificity of THAD for AC were 93% and 39%, respectively. Diffuse, hemi‐hepatic, and segmental THAD for AC were seen in 84%, 4%, and 9%, respectively. In all, 64% of patients were diagnosed with severe AC and 29% with mild AC, depending on the intensity of THAD, but the patterns and degree of intensity of THAD and AC severity were not related.

Conclusion

Although the pattern and the degree of intensity of THAD and AC severity were not related, THAD might be useful in diagnosing AC. Thus, THAD should be considered a diagnostic criterion for AC.
Novel Synthesis of Some Imidazolyl‐, Benzoxazinyl‐, and Quinazolinyl‐2,4‐dioxothiazolidine Derivatives
Authors: Youssef Ali M. , EL‐Ziaty Ahmed K. , Abou‐Elmagd Wael S. I. , Ramadan Sayed K.
Published: May 2014

2‐(2,4‐Dioxothiazolidin‐5‐yl)acetic acid 1 and its chloride derivative 2 were allowed to react with different aromatic amines such as o‐phenylenediamine, o‐aminothiophenol, p‐aminoacetophenone, and anthranilic acid to give the biologically active nuclei such as imidazoles, thiazoles, benzoxazines, and quinazolines incorporated with the thiazolidindione nucleus. The antimicrobial activity of five of the synthesized compounds was examined against one gram positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus), one gram negative bacteria (Escherichia coli), and two fungi (Aspergillus flavus and Candida albicans). Four compounds showed moderate antibacterial and antifungal activities.
KOH‐Oriented Ring Openings of N‐Tosylaziridines with Carboxylic Acids in DMSO
Authors: Zhang F. , Chang H. , Wei W.
Published: May 2014

A facile and efficient KOH‐oriented regioselective ring‐opening reaction for the acetolysis of N‐tosylaziridines in DMSO was developed under mild conditions. This operationally simple protocol could tolerate a variety of functionalized carboxylic acids as well as several N‐tosylaziridines. Moreover, this strategy provided the corresponding ring‐opening products with good results.
Synthesis, Characterization, and Anticancer Effect of Trifluoromethylated Aurone Derivatives
Authors: Zheng Xing , Wang Hui , Liu Yun‐Mei , Yao Xu , Tong Min , Wang Yu‐Hong , Liao Duan‐Fang
Published: May 2014

A series of trifluoromethylated aurone derivatives were synthesized, and the structure of 6‐hydroxy‐4‐trifluoromethylated aurone was determined by single crystal X‐ray analysis. Their anticancer activities against leucocythemia (HL‐60) and colorectal adenocarcinoma (HT‐29) were evaluated by the standard MTT method in vitro with 5‐fluorouracil as a positive contrast drug. The results showed that all the (Z)‐trifluoromethylated aurone derivatives had potential anticancer activities.
Principles of T2*‐weighted dynamic susceptibility contrast MRI technique in brain tumor imaging
Authors: Shiroishi Mark S. , Castellazzi Gloria , Boxerman Jerrold L. , D'Amore Francesco , Essig Marco , Nguyen Thanh B. , Provenzale James M. , Enterline David S. , Anzalone Nicoletta , Dörfler Arnd , Rovira Àlex , Wintermark Max , Law Meng
Published: May 2014

Dynamic susceptibility contrast magnetic resonance imaging (DSC‐MRI) is used to track the first pass of an exogenous, paramagnetic, nondiffusible contrast agent through brain tissue, and has emerged as a powerful tool in the characterization of brain tumor hemodynamics. DSC‐MRI parameters can be helpful in many aspects, including tumor grading, prediction of treatment response, likelihood of malignant transformation, discrimination between tumor recurrence and radiation necrosis, and differentiation between true early progression and pseudoprogression. This review aims to provide a conceptual overview of the underlying principles of DSC‐MRI of the brain for clinical neuroradiologists, scientists, or students wishing to improve their understanding of the technical aspects, pitfalls, and controversies of DSC perfusion MRI of the brain. Future consensus on image acquisition parameters and postprocessing of DSC‐MRI will most likely allow this technique to be evaluated and used in high‐quality multicenter studies and ultimately help guide clinical care. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2015;41:296–313.© 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Impact of age, sex, and indexation method on MR left ventricular reference values in the framingham heart study offspring cohort
Authors: Yeon Susan B. , Salton Carol J. , Gona Philimon , Chuang Michael L. , Blease Susan J. , Han Yuchi , Tsao Connie W. , Danias Peter G. , Levy Daniel , O'Donnell Christopher J. , Manning Warren J.
Published: May 2014

Purpose

To determine normative values for left ventricular (LV) volumes, mass, concentricity, and ejection fraction (EF) and investigate associations between sex, age, and body size with LV parameters in community‐dwelling adults.

Materials and Methods

In all, 1794 Framingham Heart Study Offspring cohort members underwent LV short‐axis oriented, contiguous multislice cine steady‐state free precession MR of the left ventricle; from these a healthy referent group (n = 852, 61 ± 9 years, 40% men) free of clinical cardiac disease and hypertension (SBP < 140, DBP < 90 mmHg, never used antihypertensive medication ≥30 years prior to scanning) was identified. Referent participants were stratified by sex and age group (≤55, 56–65, >65 years); LV parameters were indexed to measures of body size.

Results

Men have greater LV volumes and mass than women both before and after indexation to height, powers of height, and body surface area (P < 0.01 all), but indexation to fat‐free mass yielded greater LV volume and mass in women. In both sexes, LV volumes and mass decrease with advancing age, although indexation attenuates this association. LVEF is greater in women than men (68 ± 5% vs. 66 ± 5%, P < 0.01) and increases with age in both sexes (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Among nonhypertensive adults free of cardiac disease, men have greater LV volumes and mass with sex differences generally persisting after indexation to body size. LV volumes and mass tend to decrease with greater age in both sexes. Female sex and advanced age were both associated with greater LVEF. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2015;41:1038–1045. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Spatiotemporal variations of pan evaporation in China during 1960–2005: changing patterns and causes
Authors: Zhang Qiang , Qi Tianyao , Li Jianfeng , Singh Vijay P. , Wang Zongzhi
Published: May 2014

Observed pan evaporation data from 588 stations covering the entire territory of China are analysed using the modified Mann–Kendall trend test method. Fuzzy C‐Means clustering is conducted for regionalization. Sensitivity analysis is performed to identify the principal influencing factors. Results indicate that: (1) the entire country can be categorized into three parts, i.e. A: southern, central and southwestern China; B: northwestern China and C: strip zone extending from northeastern to southwestern China; (2) significant decreasing pan evaporation can be identified in southern, central, southwestern, eastern and northwestern China. Stations with significant increasing pan evaporation seem to be scattered sporadically across China. Besides, the strip zone extending in the NE‐SW direction is dominated by significant and also nonsignificant increasing trends of pan evaporation and (3) sensitivity analysis indicates that relative humidity is the principal influencing factor for pan evaporation, especially in northwestern, northern and northeastern China. Generally, in northwestern, northern and northeastern China, relative humidity has an adverse relation with pan evaporation, implying pan evaporation paradox and also intensifying hydrological cycle in these regions. In southeastern China, particularly the middle and lower Yangtze River basin and the Pearl River basin, relations between pan evaporation and relative humidity are relatively complex, showing that other factors in addition to relative humidity can have impacts on pan evaporation changes, such as cloud coverage, temperature and aerosol concentration. Local features of aerodynamic and radiative drivers of the hydrological cycle and their regional responses to climate changes, and also different features of ground surface may play considerable roles in pan evaporation changes.
Trend analysis of rainfall in four meteorological subdivisions of southern India using nonparametric methods and discrete wavelet transforms
Authors: Adarsh S. , Janga Reddy M.
Published: May 2014

In recent times, trend analysis and change point detection in hydroclimatic variables receiving significant attention due to climate change and its socioeconomic consequences. In this study, long‐term trends of rainfall in four subdivisions of southern India namely Kerala, Tamil Nadu, North Interior (NI) Karnataka and Telangana regions are analysed using linear regression, nonparametric Mann–Kendall (MK) test and Sen's slope estimator methods. Trend analysis of annual rainfall time series shows an increasing trend in three subdivisions – Tamil Nadu, NI Karnataka and Telangana, and a decreasing trend in Kerala subdivision. Further the sequential change in trend of annual and seasonal rainfalls in the four subdivisions is conducted using sequential MK (SQMK) method. The SQMK analysis shows an early divergence of progressive and retrograde modes of post‐monsoon rainfall of Kerala and winter rainfall of Telangana subdivisions. Further it is observed that among different seasonal rainfalls, the post‐monsoon rainfall of Kerala subdivision shows a statistically significant increase in the recent past. Then the trend analysis based on discrete wavelet transform (DWT) in conjunction with SQMK method is performed on the post‐monsoon rainfall time series of Kerala subdivision, and the results show that there is a dominancy of short‐term periodicity of less than a decade in the subdivision.
Soil microbiological properties and its stratification ratios for soil quality assessment under different cover crop management systems in a semiarid vineyard
Authors: Peregrina Fernando , Pilar Pérez‐Álvarez Eva , García‐Escudero Enrique
Published: May 2014

In vineyards in Spain, tillage and semiarid Mediterranean climatic conditions accelerate organic matter loss from the soil. Cover crops are a conservation management practice that can provoke changes in soil quality which requires evaluation. Stratification ratios of soil properties such as soil organic C and labile C fractions have been proposed for the assessment of soil quality under different soil management systems. Our objective was to study the effect of different cover crop management on various soil parameters and their stratification ratios. We evaluated three different soil managements in a Typic Haploxerept from NE Spain: conventional tillage (CT); 5‐y continuous cover crop of resident vegetation (RV); and 4‐y continuous cover crop of Festuca longifolia Thuill., followed by 1‐y Bromus catharticus L. after resowing (BV). We monitored soil organic C, particulate organic C, water soluble C, potentially mineralizable N, microbial biomass C, β‐glucosidase and urease enzymatic activities, and water stable aggregates at 0–2.5, 2.5–5, 5–15, 15–25, and 25–45 cm soil depths. We calculated soil depth stratification ratios of those soil properties. Resident cover crop increased microbiological properties, labile C fractions, and aggregation with respect to conventional tillage at 0–2.5 and 2.5–5 cm soil depths. However, for Bromus cover crop the same soil properties were lower than for the resident cover crop at 0–2.5 cm depth. Stratification ratios of β‐glucosidase and urease enzymatic activities, and particulate organic C showed a higher sensitivity than other soil properties; therefore, they would be the best indicators for soil quality assessment in semiarid Mediterranean vineyards.
Location of small cochlear lesions by phase contrast microscopy prior to thin sectioning
Authors: Bohne Barbara A.
Published: May 2014

A new technique for the study of the inner ear is described. Cochleae are fixed, dehydrated and infiltrated with plastic while their bony walls are intact except for small holes at the third turn and near the round window. After the plastic polymerizes, the cochlear bone is removed so that half turns of cochlear duct can be separated from the modiolus. These specimens are re‐embedded in a thin layer of plastic after trimming so that their basilar membrane sides lie close to the surface of the plastic layer.

Using phase contrast microscopy, the entire organ of Corti is examined by focusing through the surface of the plastic and through the specimens from the basilar membrane up to the tectorial membrane.

Segments of organ of Corti containing small lesions are divided in such a way that cross‐sections of those areas for study by light and electron microscopy are obtained readily using an ultrotome.
Treatment of parotid duct injuries
Authors: Abramson Maxwell
Published: May 2014

Seven patients with acute injuries of the parotid duct have been treated in the Department of Otolaryngology and Maxillofacial Surgery at the University of Iowa in the last five years. Two patients had lacerations of the buccal region of the duct and were treated successfully by reimplantation of the remaining duct into the oral cavity. The five patients with lacerations of the masseter portion underwent primary anastomosis. Two of these five patients demonstrated salivary flow from Stenson's duct on follow‐up. Of the three remaining patients, one healed but failed to show salivary flow at follow‐up; one patient had deliberate proximal duct ligation because of a large gap in the duct after excision of a basal carcinoma, and one patient developed a salivary fistula requiring radiation therapy for gland suppression. A technique for primary anastomosis of the parotid duct is described.
Methyl mercury ototoxicity: A model for the surface preparation technique
Authors: Falk Stephen A. , Haseman Joseph K. , Klein Ronald , Falk Marcia K.
Published: May 2014

A critical review of recent articles in which the surface preparation technique was employed is presented. Many of the reports were deficient in terms of five important criteria which would insure reproducibility of experiments, comparability of results from different investigators, and detection of a low level of cellular pathology. These criteria are: inclusion of concurrent controls; use of adequate number of control and treated animals to insure the detection of meaningful treatment‐control differences; adequate examination of controls; quantitative expression of cellular pathology, and the use of statistical analyses to test for significant differences.

When these criteria were employed, methyl mercury was identified as a unique ototoxic agent. It caused a low level of outer hair cell pathology in all four turns of the guinea pig cochlea. Statistically significant damage occurred in the outer row of outer hair cells at 2½ turns from the cochlear base (P <.01) and in the inner row at 3½ turns (P <.05). When damage for all rows at each turn was considered, methyl mercury produced significant damage (P <.05) at 2½ turns from the cochlear base.
Management of general anesthesia for mastoid‐tympanoplasty: Anesthesia and surgical considerations
Authors: Snow John C. , Kripke Benjamin J. , Strong M. Stuart
Published: May 2014

Bleeding can be minimized during general endotracheal anesthesia for mastoid‐tympanoplasty surgery by a satisfactory anesthesia, normal spontaneous ventilation without expiratory or inspiratory obstruction, proper positioning of the patient, and controlled hypotension at 95 systolic blood pressure with oxygen 6 liters/min. and halothane 1.5‐2 percent. Trimethaphan 0.1 percent may be added. The degree of hypotension is controlled by the depth of anesthesia with halothane, positioning, and if it is required, titration with trimethaphan.

Controlled mild hypotension with halothane facilitates mastoid‐tympanoplasty surgery. It has been used in more than 300 patients, with ages ranging from six to 72 years. The results have been highly successful and satisfactory. There was no morbidity or mortality related either directly or indirectly to the use of this technique.
Resolution of hemotympanum
Authors: Small Harold
Published: May 2014

In the Mongolian gerbil's middle ear, response to the presence of blood clot is characterized by mucosal hypertrophy and a vigorous organizational response within a two‐week period. Another three to four weeks are necessary for complete assimilation of remaining inflammatory products by active phagocytosis and absorption through a multi‐layered mucosa.
Statistical analysis of the alterations of blood gases produced by nasal packing
Authors: Cook Ted A. , Komorn Robert M.
Published: May 2014

Alteration in pulmonary physiology occurred in 20 patients who had nasal packing, bed rest and sedation for control of epistaxis. While the packs were in place there was a uniform decrease in the arterial PO2 and an increase in the arterial PCO2 which was statistically significant. These changes were most marked in six patients who had pre‐existing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Removal of the packing or ligation of the internal maxillary artery quickly reversed the hypoxic state.

It is postulated that the cardiovascular stress resulting from purposely inducing a hypoxic state with nasal packing, bed rest, and sedation may be the underlying etiology for sudden death. The alternative of using internal maxillary artery ligation not only avoids this hypoxic state but can also shorten the hospital stay and eliminate the discomfort and local complications known to occur with nasal packing.
A 10‐year profile of meniere's disease and endolymphatic shunt surgery
Authors: Turner John S. , Saunders Anne Z. , Per‐Lee John H.
Published: May 2014

This report reviews our experience at the Emory Clinic with medically and surgically managed Ménière's patients and indicates the importance of prolonged follow‐up before final decisions about the results of surgery are made. Endolymphatic sac surgery has been used for the past 10 years in the treatment of incapacitating vertigo. Vertigo was improved in 60 percent but hearing was preserved in only 50 percent. Vasodilators were used as the primary agents in medical care. Hearing was preserved in 68 percent of cases. A safe, long‐acting, protective, vasodilating drug is needed for the adequate control of Ménière's disease.
Innervated partial hemi‐tongue pseudoepiglottis: An experimental study
Authors: Lapidot Abraham , Gelot Raghuvir , Ampolsakdi Thavisin
Published: May 2014

A conventional supraglottic laryngectomy with simultaneous bilateral arytenoidectomy and lateralization of the true vocal cords, in order to “freeze the glottic inlet,” was performed in 15 dogs. The posterior half of the hemi‐tongue was mobilized, everted and delivered into the hypopharynx where its free distal margins were sutured to a raw area created on the postcricoid and upper esophageal region. This flap constituted the innervated part hemi‐tongue pseudoepiglottis. The healing of the pseudoepiglottis was complete in eight dogs. Endoscopic examination demonstrated the pseudoepiglottis to cover the glottic inlet while the dog breathed around it. All these dogs ate solids and drank liquids by mouth. Four dogs demonstrated the ability to drink fluids well, as opposed to the rather laborious effort by the rest. Barium swallow showed the passage of dye over the superior surface of the pseudoepiglottis. The dogs were sacrificed at four to six weeks. A pneumonic process was demonstrable in one dog only. Prior to sacrifice the ipsilateral hypoglossal nerve was exposed in the neck of one dog. Its stimulation electrically demonstrated contraction of the pseudoepiglottis with elevation of the esophageal inlet.
Leiomyoangioma of paranasal sinuses: Case report
Authors: Schwartzman José , Schwartzman Jorge
Published: May 2014

This is a case report of a leiomyoangioma in a heretofore unreported location, the paranasal sinuses. Because normally there are no smooth muscle fibers on this location, it is hard to explain its origin. It seems very possible that this tumor may have originated from the smooth muscular tissue existing on the middle layer of the blood vessels supplying the sinuses.
Neurophysiological correlates of nystagmus
Authors: Ward Paul H.
Published: May 2014

The space program and medicine's need for additional information in order to better understand, prevent and treat disorders of the vestibular system have stimulated widespread renewed interest in the study of this complex system. Despite the significant contributions by a number of investigators, much has yet to be learned in order to understand clearly the interrelationships and complexities of the vestibulo‐ocular system and the associated peripheral and central subsystems. Because of the functional interdependence of each portion of the vestibulo‐ocular reflex complex, a thorough study of the various parts is essential.

After review and utilization of a number of available approaches for studying this complex system and its subsystems, it is apparent that the development of some new testing techniques along with improved data storing, retrieval, and analysis methods are needed. The concept, implementation, and activation of new experimental techniques are difficult and laborious as will be seen in this thesis. Better data storage, retrieval and analysis, likewise, require the use of modern technology as well as the extended efforts, assistance and cooperation of experts from other disciplines. This has been accomplished with the use of newly developed computer programs which make possible quantitative measurements, graphical display and correlative studies of massive amounts of information which would otherwise be humanly impossible.

The general organization of this thesis is oriented toward reviewing the previous work by other investigators upon which any such endeavor must build. Particular emphasis is then given to the methods which are explained in detail so that they can be utilized by others without retracing the many pitfalls experienced in their development. Quantitative analysis of recordings of the behavior of the VIth cranial nerve fibers of cats in response to optokinetic and rotatory stimulation is presented and discussed.

Comments on interesting observations made during the conduct of these experiments are presented. The significance and future plans of application of these new approaches to the study of the vestibulo‐ocular systems are discussed.
Radio scanning studies of ear and sinuses
Authors: Kirchner Fernando R.
Published: May 2014

Radiophotoscanners are relatively new diagnostic tools. They provide visual images as well as quantitative information about the behavior in the human body of special substances called radionuclides. This paper is a preliminary report about the use of a radioactive gas, 133 Xenon, to study the ventilation of the middle ear and sinuses. This technique has so far rendered intriguing, and at the same time, fascinating results. At this point in time these results cannot be considered definitive or conclusive. It is conceivable, however, that if standardization and control of variables is achieved, this technique may play an important role in the physiological and pathological assessment of these cavities.
The anterior surgical approach in facial paralysis: The neglected horizontal position
Authors: Brockman Seymour J.
Published: May 2014

A combined postero‐anterior and antero‐posterior approach to the Bell's palsy patient, with removal of the incus, produces visualization of the Fallopian canal anteriorly from the geniculate ganglion to as far posteriorly as the stylomastoid foramen. This is not feasible by the posteroanterior approach alone.

With a dehiscence of the horizontal portion of the Fallopian canal, it is not always necessary to decompress the vertical portion of the facial nerve.

Surgical intervention is still indicated in non‐resolving Bell's palsy.
The abc's of impedance audiometry
Authors: Sheehy James L. , Hughes Richard L.
Published: May 2014

Impedance audiometry plays an important part in the otologic evaluation. To appreciate fully when it can be of help, the otologist must have a basic understanding of the impedance bridge and acoustic equivalent volume.

The test battery consists of a tympanogram, the determination of acoustic impedance and eliciting the acoustic reflex.

Impedance audiometry is of greatest value in young children because a voluntary response is not required. The otologist may differentiate conductive from sensori‐neural impairments. In the adult it has been of most use as part of the neuro‐otologic evaluation, to help differentiate a cochlear from a retrocochlear impairment.
Cryosurgical treatment of recurrent head and neck malignancies — a comparative study
Authors: Goode Richard L. , Breitenbach Edwin E. , Cox Dale
Published: May 2014

Fifty‐seven cases of recurrent head and neck malignancies unsuitable for further X‐ray or surgery were treated with cryosurgery. The cases were divided into two groups: a symptomatic group of 21 cases treated only when symptoms became severe and an asymptomatic group of 36 cases treated early in an effort to produce significant prolongation of life. In the symptomatic group, pain relief was obtained in 7 of 8 patients (86.5 percent) and symptoms related to tumor bulk were relieved in 11 of 13 patients (84.6 percent). Thirty‐six asymptomatic cases treated at the time recurrence was first diagnosed, showed a definite trend of increased survival when compared with matched cases treated prior to the advent of cryosurgery.
Glomus tumors: diagnosis and treatment
Authors: Glasscock Michael E. , Harris Perry F. , Newsome George
Published: May 2014

Glomus tumors can be classified as to their origin in the temporal bone. Those limited to the middle ear and mastoid are referred to as tympanicum tumors while those originating in the jugular bulb are known as jugulare tumors. Diagnostic studies such as polytomes of the temporal bone, retrograde venograms and arteriograms now make it possible for the surgeon to determine not only the origin of the tumor but also the extent of its involvement in the temporal bone and base of the skull.

Surgical removal is the treatment of choice for these lesions and radiation therapy is considered palliative and used only in inoperable cases.

The theme of this paper is that extensive tympanicum and jugulare tumors can be removed with preservation of the eardrum, ossicles, posterior canal wall and cranial nerves. Twenty‐one patients are presented with summarized case histories. A protocal for diagnosis and a system of operations for the removal of these tumors has been presented in detail.
Spontaneous and positional nystagmus: a reassessment of clinical significance
Authors: Dayal Vijay S. , Tarantino Leopold , Farkashidy Joseph , Paradisgarten Avrim
Published: May 2014

The incidence of spontaneous and types of positional nystagmus in 302 patients with end organ, nerve, brain stem and cerebellar lesions is analyzed. All types of these nystagmus are frequently encountered in peripheral and central lesions. By itself the type of vestibular nystagmus (except vertical spontaneous seen in this series in only central lesions) is not diagnostic of any lesion. It should be considered with other findings. Based on these findings, the discontinuation of the term benign paroxysmal nystagmus is suggested.

In a small number of cases retested over a year, a change from spontaneous to positional to paroxysmal positional nystagmus is shown. These changes are considered to reflect the degrees of vestibular compensation that occur over a period of time.
Treatment of the vertiginous patient using cawthorne's vestibular exercises
Authors: Hecker Henry C. , Haug C. Olaf , Herndon John W.
Published: May 2014

In this study the results of using Cawthorne's vestibular exercises on patients with electronystagmographically confirmed positional vertigo, labyrinthitis and postoperative vertigo are discussed. Some of these patients had history of industry related noise exposure resulting in high frequency hearing loss along with ENG demonstratable peripheral vestibular lesion that could also have been caused by the high intensity noise exposure. The question arises if high intensity noise can produce vestibular disorders along with high frequency sensori‐neural hearing loss the employee's life can be endangered if he works on high places or on heavy machinery, etc., where momentary dizziness can be fatal. In addition, some of the data in this study suggests the possibility of congenital vestibular weakness similar to genetically transmittable sensori‐neural hearing loss. The study discusses the useful role the audiologist can play in such rehabilitative procedure working with the physician and other related professions to help patients overcome their vestibular disorientation.
Microscopic antrostomies in children: A review of the literature in chronic sinusitis and a plan of medical and surgical treatment
Authors: Dixon Hamilton S.
Published: May 2014

Potential complications, morbidity, treatment failures and “nasal cripples” make one cautious about advising radical sinus surgery. Though antibiotics have greatly reduced the need for radical surgery, some patients do not respond to conservative treatment.

Reviewed is pertinent literature concerning treatment of chronic, refractory sinusitis in children, particularly intranasal antrostomy.

Medical treatment for chronic sinusitis precedes surgical intervention. Allergic history, nasal cytology and radiographic examination are essential.

Since principles of adequate surgical drainage and ventilation have long been established, controlled antrostomy procedure is done with the aid of the operating microscope, creating a nasal mucosal flap.

A new instrument is presented — a self‐retaining stabilized retractor speculum which allows adequate visualization with the microscope while protecting the mucosal flap and freeing both hands for the procedure.
Clinical significance of viral latency
Authors: Sprinkle Philip M. , Veltri Robert W. , Wade John
Published: May 2014

Evidence is accumulating to show that a number of viruses have the ability to adapt to man's defense mechanisms and survive in a latent state for what appears to be the life of the human host. Unfortunately, latent viral presence, which may appear clinically benign initially, may manifest itself later as severe and often fatal disease. Some members of the herpes virus family have latent potential and are discussed in detail. Clinical competence would suggest a thorough understanding of these late manifestations of occult viral presence.
An unusual thyroid tumor in a child
Authors: Levey Mark
Published: May 2014

Malignant neoplasms of the thyroid gland are quite rare in children. Winship, in his classic article, could find only 562 cases in the literature. The histopathological patterns resemble those of the adult tumors. Despite early cervical metastasis, the prognosis in general is favorable, with many long‐term survivals. Prior exposure to radiation of the head and neck is a definite pre‐disposing factor.

Teratomas of the neck are a medical curiosity — less than 100 cases are described in the literature. The vast majority of these are found during the neonatal period, and are benign histologically. These are usually large, cystic, bulky masses which produce mechanical obstruction of the upper airway and digestive tract. Only one of these tumors, described by Pupovac in 1896, has been considered malignant.

A six‐year‐old child was examined with a right thyroid mass of three months' duration. The thyroid scan showed a “cold nodule.” At surgery, a well‐encapsulated mass was found. The pathology showed a predominance of malignant spindle cells, with areas of papillary carcinoma; however, there were well‐defined mucous glands present in the tumor. Clinically, the child has remained well and asymptomatic.

The slides have been extensively reviewed. To my knowledge no such tumor has been previously described. The tumor is considered to be a malignant thyroid tumor growing out of teratomatous tissue.
Infrabrow lift
Authors: Parkes Morey L. , Kamer Frank M. , Merrin Michael L.
Published: May 2014

The infrabrow lift is presented as a specific method to correct skin redundancy between the eyebrow and upper lid. Indications are outlined which differentiate this technique from the suprabrow surgical approach. The surgical technique is discussed. Esthetic results have proven most satisfactory.
“Practical suggestions on facial plastic surgery — How i do it” “threading” augmentation for facial wrinkles
Authors: Conley John J. , Clairmont Albert A.
Published: May 2014

For hundreds of years various types of sutures and threads have been placed in the human body by surgeons. The technique of thread augmentation involves the use of colorless absorbable (Vicryl) and non‐absorbable (Neurolon) suture material on a long, straight Keith needle tunneled sub‐dermally beneath prominent facial wrinkles in an effort to make the deep grooves less severe and to augment atrophic areas about the lips and oral commissures. This may be done as an isolated procedure or as an ancillary procedure at the time of a blepharoplasty or cervicofacial rhytidectomy.
Effects of radiation therapy on postoperative complications and adverse events in patients with head and neck reconstruction with flaps
Authors: Onoda Satoshi , Kimata Yoshihiro , Sugiyama Narushi , Onoda Tomoo , Mizukawa Nobuyoshi
Published: May 2014

Background

Radiation therapy is an essential treatment for head and neck cancer. However, the condition of the operative field is entirely altered after radiation therapy. This study aimed to examine the effects of preoperative radiation therapy on complications in patients who underwent head and neck reconstruction with flaps.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 252 instances of head and neck reconstruction with flaps in 240 patients between October 2000 and May 2011 at Okayama University Hospital. Of the participants, 51 had preoperative radiation exposure (21.3%) and 189 had no radiation exposure (78.7%). Postoperative complications were divided into three categories: minor complications that healed with conservative medical treatment within 4 weeks without a need for surgery; major complications requiring reoperation within 1 week after surgery (reoperation); and major complications needing additional operation later than 1 week after surgery (additional operation).

Results

Preoperative radiation therapy was only associated with major complications requiring reoperation later than 1 week after surgery (P < 0.001), open cervical wounds (P = 0.0030), and skin grafting for cervical skin necrosis (P = 0.0031) when compared to no radiation exposure. The results of flap failure were not significantly different between both groups (P = 0.3820).

Conclusions

Minor complications and reoperation in the early postoperative period were not influenced by radiation exposure. The complications of radiation tend to be protracted and associated with additional operation later than 1 week after the initial surgery. It was thought that shortening of the duration of treatment was successful when we needed to perform early additional operations. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery 34:516–521, 2014.
Mining Molecular Pharmacological Effects from Biomedical Text: a Case Study for Eliciting Anti‐Obesity/Diabetes Effects of Chemical Compounds
Authors: Dura Elzbieta , Muresan Sorel , Engkvist Ola , Blomberg Niklas , Chen Hongming
Published: May 2014

In the pharmaceutical industry, efficiently mining pharmacological data from the rapidly increasing scientific literature is very crucial for many aspects of the drug discovery process such as target validation, tool compound selection etc. A quick and reliable way is needed to collect literature assertions of selected compounds’ biological and pharmacological effects in order to assist the hypothesis generation and decision‐making of drug developers. INFUSIS, the text mining system presented here, extracts data on chemical compounds from PubMed abstracts. It involves an extensive use of customized natural language processing besides a co‐occurrence analysis. As a proof‐of‐concept study, INFUSIS was used to search in abstract texts for several obesity/diabetes related pharmacological effects of the compounds included in a compound dictionary. The system extracts assertions regarding the pharmacological effects of each given compound and scores them by the relevance. For each selected pharmacological effect, the highest scoring assertions in 100 abstracts were manually evaluated, i.e. 800 abstracts in total. The overall accuracy for the inferred assertions was over 90 percent.
Set the Pace on the Data Highway
Authors: Arnold Steffen , Reiff Ellen‐Christine
Published: May 2014

Some years ago, silicon photonics was already an important topic with regard to fast telecommunication solutions, today the focus lies more on datacom, implying that optical interconnect is not only used for long‐haul data transmission, but also for on‐chip communication, chip‐to‐chip, chip‐to‐board, and so on.
Measuring Extra‐thin Materials
Authors: Donges Axel
Published: May 2014

By the use of thermal waves, the thickness of layers can be determined without contact and destruction. To this end, the surface of the layer is heated periodically by a modulated laser beam, and the resulting oscillation of the surface temperature is measured. The measuring principle corresponds to that of optical interferometry. Instead of light waves, however, strongly damped thermal waves are used. In this paper, we present the physical principles of this measuring method.
Detection of Suspicious Tissue Lesions
Authors: Dressler Cathrin , Reble Carina , Schleusener Johannes , Gersonde Ingo
Published: May 2014

RS based discrimination of diseased tissues from normal surroundings will facilitate diagnosis and treatment of precancers before malignant manifestations as see‐and‐treat procedures. In front of this aim, two RS setups were constructed suiting clinical application in dermatology and gynecology departments. Patients or patient materials were measured by RS, and Raman spectra were processed prior to spatial classification of spectra in correlation with the histolopathological findings.
Squeezing out the Last Micron
Authors: Thiel Jutta
Published: May 2014

Although all machine tool manufacturers advertise highest accuracies: No machine is immune to minimum systematic geometrical errors. This becomes particularly clear in the case of 5‐axis machining centers, where geometrical deviations can occur in the linear axes as well as in the rotation axes. Here, many small geometrical errors quickly add up and create production inaccuracies, which can endanger the dimensional accuracy of machined components in the case of very tight tolerances.
Interleukin‐6 induces neuroendocrine differentiation (NED) through suppression of RE‐1 silencing transcription factor (REST)
Authors: Zhu Yezi , Liu Chengfei , Cui Yuanyuan , Nadiminty Nagalakshmi , Lou Wei , Gao Allen C.
Published: May 2014

BACKGROUND

Paracrine interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) can mediate neuroendocrine (NE) features, including the acquisition of a neurite‐like phenotype and growth arrest in prostate cancer cells. However, little is known about the mechanisms underlying neuroendocrine differentiation induced by IL‐6.

METHODS

Immunoblotting was performed to determine the status of RE1‐silencing transcription factor (REST) and of neuroendocrine markers such as Neuron‐specific Enolase (NSE), chromogranin A and synaptophysin in LNCaP cells treated with IL‐6. To further study the impact of REST‐mediated repression on neuroendocrine differentiation (NED) in LNCaP cells, either wild‐type REST or a dominant‐positive form of REST, REST‐VP16, in which both repressor domains of REST were replaced with the activation domain of the herpes simplex virus protein VP16, was introduced into LNCaP cells.

RESULTS

In this study, we show that REST is suppressed in IL‐6‐induced neuroendocrine differentiation in LNCaP cells. Overexpression of exogenous REST abrogated IL‐6‐induced NED in prostate cancer cells. Expression of the recombinant REST‐VP16 fusion protein activated REST target genes and other neuronal differentiation genes and produced neuronal physiological properties. In addition, REST protein turnover was accelerated in IL‐6 induced NE differentiated LNCaP cells via the ubiquitin‐proteasome pathway, accompanied by a decrease in the expression of the deubiquitylase HAUSP, indicating that pathway(s) priming REST degradation may be involved in IL‐6 induced NE differentiation.

CONCLUSIONS

These results demonstrate that REST functions as a major switch of IL‐6 induced neuroendocrine differentiation in LNCaP cells. Prostate 74:1086–1094, 2014. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A Poly(lactide) Stereocomplex Structure with Modified Magnesium Oxide and Its Effects in Enhancing the Mechanical Properties and Suppressing Inflammation
Authors: Kum Chang Hun , Cho Youngjin , Seo Seong Ho , Joung Yoon Ki , Ahn Dong June , Han Dong Keun
Published: May 2014

Biodegradable polymers such as poly(l‐lactide) (PLLA) have been widely utilized as materials for biomedical applications. However, the relatively poor mechanical properties of PLLA and its acid‐induced cell inflammation brought about by the acidic byproducts during biodegradation pose severe problems. In this study, these drawbacks of PLLA are addressed using a stereocomplex structure, where oligo‐d‐lactide‐grafted magnesium hydroxide (MgO‐ODLA) is synthesized by grafting d‐lactide onto the surface of magnesium hydroxide, which is then blended with a PLLA film. The structure, morphology, pH change, thermal and mechanical properties, in‐vitro cytotoxicity, and inflammation effect of the MgO‐ODLAs and their PLLA composites are evaluated through various analyses. The PLLA/MgO70‐ODLA30 (0–20 wt%) composite with a stereocomplex structure shows a 20% increase in its tensile strength and an improvement in the modulus compared to its oligo‐l‐lactide (PLLA/MgO70‐OLLA30) counterpart. The interfacial interaction parameter of PLLA/MgO70‐ODLA30 (5.459) has superior properties to those of PLLA/MgO70‐OLLA30 (4.013) and PLLA/Mg(OH)2 (1.774). The cell cytotoxicity and acid‐induced inflammatory response are suppressed by the neutralizing effect of the MgO‐ODLAs. In addition, the inflammatory problem caused by the rapid acidification of the stereocomplex structure is also addressed. As a result, the stereocomplex structure of the MgO‐ODLA/PLLA composite can be used to overcome the problems associated with the biomedical applications of PLLA films.
Accommodation and Negotiation with Context-Sensitive Expressions
Authors: Silk Alex ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: May 2014

Contextualists and relativists about predicates of personal taste, epistemic modals, and so on (“CR-expressions”) agree that the interpretation of these expressions depends, in some sense, on context. Relativists claim that the sort of context-sensitivity exhibited by CR-expressions is importantly different from that exhibited by paradigm context-sensitive expressions. This bifurcation is often motivated by the claim that the two classes of expressions behave differently in patterns of agreement and disagreement. I provide cases illustrating that the same sorts of discourse phenomena that have been thought problematic for contextualists can arise with paradigm context-sensitive expressions.These cases motivate a more unified treatment of paradigm context-sensitive expressions and the expressions that have figured in recent contextualism/relativism debates.