bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hospital care for children with hydrocephalus in the United States: utilization, charges, comorbidities, and deaths
Authors: Simon Tamara D. , Riva-Cambrin Jay , Srivastava Raj , Bratton Susan L. , Dean J. Michael , Kestle John R. W. , _ _
Published: February 2008

Object

The aims of this study were to measure inpatient health care for pediatric hydrocephalus in the US; describe patient, hospital, and hospitalization characteristics for pediatric hydrocephalus inpatient care; and determine characteristics associated with death.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was performed using the 1997, 2000, and 2003 Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project Kids' Inpatient Databases (KID), nationally representative weighted data sets of hospital discharges for pediatric patients. A hydrocephalus-related hospitalization was classified as either cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) shunt–related (including initial placements, infections, malfunctions, or other) or non–CSF shunt–related. Patients > 18 years of age were excluded. The KID provided weighted estimates of 6.657, 6.597, and 6.732 million total discharges in the 3 study years.

Results

Each year there were 38,200–39,900 admissions, 391,000–433,000 hospital days, and total hospital charges of $1.4–2.0 billion for pediatric hydrocephalus. Hydrocephalus accounted for 0.6% of all pediatric hospital admissions in the US in 2003, but for 1.8% of all pediatric hospital days and 3.1% of all pediatric hospital charges. Over the study years, children admitted with hydrocephalus were older, had an increase in comorbidities, and were admitted more frequently to teaching hospitals. Compared with children who survived, those who died were more likely to be < 3 months of age and have a birth-related admission, have no insurance, have comorbidities, be transferred, and have a non–CSF shunt–related admission.

Conclusions

Children with hydrocephalus have a chronic illness and use a disproportionate share of hospital days and healthcare dollars in the US. Since 1997 they have increased in age and in number of comorbid conditions. For important changes in morbidity and mortality rates to be made, focused research efforts and funding are necessary.
Breastfeeding: a potential protective factor against ventriculoperitoneal shunt infection in young infants
Authors: Nejat Farideh , Tajik Parvin , Ghodsi Syed Mohammad , Golestan Banafsheh , Majdzadeh Reza , Yazdani Shahrooz , Ansari Saeed , Dadmehr Majid , Ganji Sara , Najafi Mehri , Farahmand Fatemeh , Moatamed Farzaneh
Published: February 2008

Object

Previous studies have shown nutritional benefits of breastfeeding for a child's health, especially for protection against infection. Protective factors in human milk locally and systemically prevent infections in the gastrointestinal as well as upper and lower respiratory tracts. It remains unclear whether breastfeeding protects infants against ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt infection.

Methods

A cohort study was conducted from December 2003 to December 2006 at Children's Hospital Medical Center in Tehran, Iran. A total of 127 infants with hydrocephalus who were treated using a VP shunt in the first 6 months of life were enrolled. Each infant's breastfeeding method was classified as either exclusively breastfed (EBF), combination feedings of breast milk and formula (CFBF), or exclusively formula-fed (EFF). Infants were followed up to determine the occurrence of shunt infection within 6 months after operation. Statistical analysis was performed using survival methods.

Results

Infants ranged in age from 4 to 170 days at the time of shunt insertion (mean 69.6 days), and 57% were males. Regarding the breastfeeding categories, 57.5% were EBF, 25.2% were CFBF, and 17.3% were EFF. During the follow-up, shunt infection occurred in 16 patients, within 15 to 173 days after shunt surgery (median 49 days). The 6-month risk of shunt infection was 8.5% (95% confidence interval [CI] 4–18%) in the EBF group, 16.5% (95% CI 7–35%) in the CFBF group, and 26.0% (95% CI 12–52%) in the EFF group. There was no statistically significant difference between these 3 groups (p = 0.11). The trend test showed a significant trend between the extent of breastfeeding and the risk of shunt infection (p = 0.035), which persisted even after adjustment for potential confounding variables (hazard ratio = 2.01, 95% CI 1.01–4).

Conclusions

This study supports the protective effect of breastfeeding against shunt infection during the first 6 months of life and the presence of a dose–response relationship, such that the higher the proportion of an infant's feeding that comes from human milk, the lower the incidence of shunt infection. Encouraging mothers of infants with VP shunts to breastfeed exclusively in the first 6 months of life is recommended.
Intraventricular astroblastoma
Authors: Denaro Luca , Gardiman Marina , Calderone Milena , Rossetto Marta , Ciccarino Pietro , Giangaspero Felice , Perilongo Giorgio , d'Avella Domenico
Published: February 2008

✓Astroblastoma is a rare primary brain neoplasm that accounts for 0.45–2.8% of brain gliomas. Intraventricular localization is extremely rare. The authors report a case of well-differentiated completely intraventricular astroblastoma in a 6-year-old girl and review the relevant literature. Their patient presented with a 5-week history of progressive nausea and vomiting. Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging revealed a large, well-demarcated, solid-cystic mass in the left temporooccipital ventricular horn. Macroscopic radical resection of the tumor was performed via the superior temporal sulcus. The postoperative course was uneventful and no adjuvant therapy was administered after surgery. No recurrence was detected at 9-months follow-up.

Gross-total resection has the greatest impact on patient survival. In differentiated tumors, recurrence is usually local, and adjuvant therapy is recommended after repeated resection for the treatment of recurrence. In patients harboring anaplastic astroblastoma, gross-total resection and adjuvant therapy after the initial surgery seems to be the best choice. It is important to distinguish astroblastoma from ependymoma in clinical practice because of the differences in therapeutic approaches.
A rare combination of a developmental venous anomaly with a varix
Authors: Sirin Sait , Kahraman Serdar , Gocmen Selcuk , Erdogan Ersin
Published: February 2008

✓The most common vascular anomaly associated with a developmental venous anomaly (DVA) is a cavernous malformation. A cerebral DVA is a rare vascular malformation of the brain when it is associated with a varix. The authors report on a 13-year-old girl who presented with 2 brief episodes of nonresponsiveness that mimicked absence seizures. The computed tomography scans, magnetic resonance images, and cerebral angiograms showed a left temporal DVA in combination with a sylvian fissure varix. To maintain normal parenchymal venous drainage, no surgical intervention was performed. Radiological and clinical follow-up was planned. This case report expands the present knowledge of the rare association of a cerebral DVA with a varix and emphasizes the need for meticulous neuroimaging to avoid unnecessary surgery.
Triple neural tube defect and the multisite closure theory for neural tube defects: is there an additional site?
Authors: Srinivas Dwarakanath , Sharma Bhavani Shankar , Mahapatra Ashok Kumar
Published: February 2008

✓Triple neural tube defects (NTDs) are rare; only 1 case exists in the available literature. There has been a divergent view on the etiogenesis of NTDs, and 2 main theories have been postulated: the more widely held orderly closure theory and the less accepted multisite closure theory. In this article the authors present 2 cases of patients with triple NTDs, and they examine the embryological basis of NTDs with special reference to the multisite closure theory. The patient in Case 1 had a 2-level myelomeningocele (MMC) along with an encephalocele; the patient in Case 2 had a 3-level MMC.

To the authors' knowledge, this paper outlines only the second and third cases described in world literature of triple NTDs including the first case of a triple MMC. The embryogenesis of triple NTDs can be better explained by the multisite closure theory. However, it fails to adequately explain the triple MMC in Case 2, given that the closure has to proceed in an orderly manner. The authors thus propose an additional closure site to explain this.
Allergic reaction to a bovine dural substitute following spinal cord untethering
Authors: Foy Andrew B. , Giannini Caterina , Raffel Corey
Published: February 2008

✓Bovine tissues are now routinely used for dural closure in cranial and spinal surgery. The authors report the case of an 18-year-old woman with a history of myelomeningocele who had symptoms of tethered cord syndrome and presented to a regional hospital. At that hospital she underwent a cord untethering procedure. The spinal dura was closed with Durepair, a dural substitute derived from fetal bovine skin. Her postoperative course was complicated by a cerebrospinal fluid leak that was surgically repaired. Following this, she developed erythroderma, intermittent fevers, eosinophilia, and marked elevation in serum immunoglobulin E. She was then transferred to the authors' institution. A skin antigen test to beef was administered, which revealed a positive reaction. A radioallergosorbent test to beef also yielded positive results. She was taken to the operating room for removal of the bovine graft due to concern for an allergic reaction to the graft. The graft material showed evidence of eosinophilic infiltration. Her clinical symptoms and laboratory values all improved after surgery. To the authors' knowledge this is the first reported case of an allergic reaction to bovine-based dural substitutes.
Craniovertebral Stabilization
Authors: Goel Atul
Published: February 2008

Abstract (Jea et al.)

The authors describe the novel use of C-1 lateral mass screws in four children 8 years of age or younger, in whom occipitocervical or atlantoaxial fusion was performed for trauma or os odontoideum. The authors retrospectively reviewed the demographics and procedural data of four children, ranging in age from 2 to 8 years, who required and underwent surgical fixation. Although C1–2 screw/rod constructs involving individual C-1 lateral mass screws and C-2 pars interarticularis or pedicle screws have been widely applied in adults, only C1–2 transarticular screw fixation has been reported in children less than 8 years of age. This report demonstrates the successful results of rigid occipitocervical and atlantoaxial fusion in four children in whom C-1 lateral mass screws were placed as part of a screw/rod construct. There was one instance of a vertebral artery injury, and the lessons learned from this complication are discussed.
Effect of age on clinical and radiographic outcomes and adverse events following 1-level lumbar arthroplasty after a minimum 2-year follow-up
Authors: Guyer Richard D. , Geisler Fred H. , Blumenthal Scott L. , McAfee Paul C. , Mullin Bradford B.
Published: February 2008

Object

Lumbar arthroplasty is approved in the US for the treatment of degenerative disc disease at 1 level in skeletally mature patients. However, a bias toward older patients (> 45 years of age) who are otherwise indicated for the procedure may exist. In this study, the clinical outcomes of patients from the Charité Investigational Device Exemption (IDE) study were analyzed on the basis of patient age.

Methods

There were 276 patients enrolled in the IDE study of the Charité Artificial Disc who underwent 1-level arthroplasty at either L4–5 or L5–S1, including 71 nonrandomized and 205 randomized individuals. Patient data were analyzed based on age (18–45 years [217 patients, Group 1] compared with 46–60 years [59 patients, Group 2]). Statistical analyses were performed based on 2-year postoperative improvements in Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), 36-item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36), and visual analog scale (VAS) scores (clinical outcome), as well as range of motion (radiographic outcome), and adverse events.

Results

There was no significant difference between the groups with respect to level implanted, operative time, blood loss, changes in ODI and VAS scores or any of the 8 component scores of the SF-36, compared with baseline, at all time points throughout the 24-month follow-up period (p > 0.10). Patient satisfaction was equivalent at 24 months, with 87% satisfaction in Group 1 and 85% satisfaction in Group 2 (no statistical difference). In addition, no significant differences were identified with respect to adverse events including approach related, neurological, technique related, or reoperation.

Conclusions

Although patients > 45 years of age may have comorbidities or contraindications for arthroplasty for a number of reasons, particularly osteopenia, this analysis demonstrates that patients who are indicated for 1-level arthroplasty experience similar clinical outcome, satisfaction, or adverse events compared with their younger counterparts.
Effect of previous surgery on clinical outcome following 1-level lumbar arthroplasty
Authors: Geisler Fred H. , Guyer Richard D. , Blumenthal Scott L. , McAfee Paul C. , Cappuccino Andrew , Bitan Fabien , Regan John J.
Published: February 2008

Object

A secondary lumbar surgery at a previously surgically treated level is believed to result in minimal clinical improvement. The clinical results of the CHARITÉ Investigational Device Exemption (IDE) study were analyzed to assess the effect of previous surgery on clinical outcomes following either total disc replacement with the CHARITÉ device or anterior lumbar interbody fusion with a BAK cage and iliac crest autograft.

Methods

Patients with prior microdiscectomy, laminectomy, or minimal medial facetectomy were not excluded from enrollment in the CHARITÉ IDE study. Thus, the following 3 groups were analyzed: all patients treated with the CHARITÉ Artificial Disc, whether randomized or nonrandomized; only patients treated with CHARITÉ devices randomized against patients with BAK devices; and control patients with BAK devices. Each group was further subdivided based on the patients' medical history, whether they had undergone prior surgery (prior surgery group) or had not (no prior surgery group). For all groups, baseline demographics were collected and compared for any potential recruitment bias. Postoperative improvements based on Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), visual analog scale (VAS), and patient satisfaction scores were further collected and statistically analyzed.

Results

For all 3 groups, there were no statistical differences in clinical improvement from 3 months to 2 years postoperatively as measured using ODI and VAS scores between the subgroups (those who had prior surgery and those who did not).

Conclusions

Patients indicated for 1-level lumbar arthroplasty with previous lumbar decompressive surgery can be expected to have similar clinical outcomes to patients undergoing arthroplasty without prior lumbar decompressive surgery. Similarly, candidates for anterior lumbar fusion with prior decompressive surgery may experience similar benefits from the surgical procedure as those without.
Nucleus replacement technologies
Authors: Coric Domagoj , Mummaneni Praveen V.
Published: February 2008

✓ Nucleus replacement offers a less invasive alternative to traditional fusion or total disc replacement techniques in the treatment of symptomatic lumbar degenerative disc disease (DDD). The authors discuss the classification of nucleus replacement devices as well as their potential indications. The authors review the history and evolution of nucleus replacement devices emphasizing several that are actively in US Investigational Device Exemption pilot feasibility trials. Nucleus replacement devices can be functionally categorized as elastomeric and mechanical. A classification scheme is discussed. Nucleus replacement remains investigational, but early clinical results have been encouraging. Further clinical investigation with well-designed prospective, randomized pivotal trials is needed to determine the efficacy of nucleus replacement in the treatment of lumbar DDD, as well as its ideal indications.
Delayed dural laceration by hydroxyapatite spacer causing tetraparesis following double-door laminoplasty
Authors: Kanemura Aritetsu , Doita Minoru , Iguchi Tetsuhiro , Kasahara Koichi , Kurosaka Masahiro , Sumi Masatoshi
Published: February 2008

Object

The authors describe 4 cases of delayed dural laceration by hydroxyapatite (HA) spacer causing tetra-paresis following double-door laminoplasty. There are few reports of iatrogenic spinal cord lesions developing after double-door laminoplasty, although some complications such as postoperative C-5 paralysis or axial symptoms have been reported. The purpose of this report is to draw attention to the possibility of delayed dural laceration and its triggering mechanism.

Methods

One hundred thirty patients treated for cervical myelopathy were followed up for an average of 2 years and 9 months after laminoplasty.

Results

Four patients experienced aggravation of cervical myelopathy. Anterior dislodgement of HA spacers was shown on plain lateral radiographs. Follow-up T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated that the dislodged HA spacers were surrounded by cerebrospinal fluid at the time of aggravation. The dislodged HA spacers were removed and the dural membrane defects were repaired by patching with the fascia of the gluteus maximus muscle. The preoperative symptoms improved after the second operation in all patients.

Conclusions

It is hypothesized that the loosening of the HA spacer in split spinous processes could occur with the movement of the cervical spine and/or the breakage of the suture before bone bonding. Anterior dislodgement of the HA spacer toward the spinal canal would cause dural laceration by direct friction between the dural membrane and the dislodged HA spacer, resulting in clinical aggravation. Despite the well-documented advantages of using HA spacers for double-door laminoplasty, possible laceration due to a dislodged HA spacer should be considered as a late complication.
Retrospective analysis of peripheral nerve sheath tumors of the second cervical nerve root in 60 surgically treated patients
Authors: Goel Atul , Muzumdar Dattatraya , Nadkarni Trimurti , Desai Ketan , Dange Nitin , Chagla Aadil
Published: February 2008

Object

This study is a retrospective analysis of 60 surgically treated patients with 64 peripheral nerve sheath tumors (PNSTs) at the second cervical (C-2) nerve root. The anatomical subtleties of these tumors and their implications for surgical strategy when compared with other spinal PNSTs and other tumors in the foramen magnum region are reviewed.

Methods

Sixty patients with C-2 PNSTs treated surgically in the Department of Neurosurgery at King Edward VII Memorial Hospital and Seth Gordhandas Sunderdas Medical College between 1992 and 2006 were studied. All patients underwent magnetic resonance imaging. Tumors were divided into 3 groups depending on their anatomical location identified during surgery. Those tumors located within or extending into the spinal dural tube were called Type A, those located within the dural tube of the C-2 ganglion were labeled as Type B, and tumors extending laterally into the paraspinal region were labeled as Type C. Follow-up durations ranged from 6 months to 15 years (mean 64 months).

Results

There were 38 male and 22 female patients in the study, who ranged in age from 6 to 62 years (mean 28 years). Nine patients had clinical features indicative of neurofibromatosis (NF). The mean duration of symptoms at the time of presentation was 27 months (range 4 days–5 years). Two patients had no specific symptoms related to the C-2 PNST, 6 patients had only local symptoms such as neck pain or stiffness, and 52 patients had symptoms of varying degrees of myelopathy. There were 5 solely Type A tumors, 7 Type A + B tumors, 31 Type B tumors, and 21 Type B + C tumors. All Type A, A + B, and B tumors were totally resected. Seven of 21 Type B + C tumors were partially resected, and the remainder were completely resected. All patients postoperatively reported varying improvement in their preoperative symptoms. Except for patients with NF who were disabled by other tumors, the rest of the patients resumed their normal life style. There have been no cases of symptomatic tumor recurrence.

Conclusions

The majority of PNSTs located at the C-2 level in these patients probably arose from the large C-2 ganglion and are limited within the dural confines or are interdural in location. In contrast to other spinal PNSTs, the location of C-2 PNSTs is in most cases posterior to the lateral mass of the atlas and axis and the atlantoaxial joint and is exposed to the posterior without any bone cover. Radical tumor resection is safe, resolution of clinical symptoms is rapid, and recurrence rates are extremely low. In a selected number of cases, bone work for tumor exposure and resection can be entirely avoided.
Cystic lesion of the ventriculus terminalis: proposal for a new clinical classification
Authors: de Moura Batista Leonardo , Acioly Marcus André , Carvalho Carlos H. , Ebner Florian H. , Tatagiba Marcos
Published: February 2008

✓ The ventriculus terminalis is a small cavity inside the conus medullaris that is formed during the embryonic development. Previous reports regarding cystic lesion of the ventriculus terminalis (CLVT) in adults have detailed a broad and diversified distribution in terms of clinical symptoms, clinical evolution, neurological findings, and treatment. Therefore, nonstandardized management has led to unsatisfactory outcomes. Thus, the authors propose a new classification system in which the clinical presentation is taken into account to standardize the cases and facilitate the proper management of these lesions. Two more cases are described.

The literature was reviewed, dividing the patients into 3 groups by clinical presentation as follows: CLVT Type I, patients with nonspecific neurological symptoms or nonspecific complaints; CLVT Type II, presence of focal neurological deficit; and CLVT Type III, presence of sphincter disturbances (bowel or bladder dysfunction). Two patients were classified as CLVT Type I, 3 as CLVT Type II, and 12 as CLVT Type III. In Type I, no improvement was observed in clinical evaluation after surgery, and stable symptoms were achieved with clinical management. In Type II, 2 patients had total improvement and 1 had subtotal improvement after surgery. Finally, in Type III, 92% of the patients improved postoperatively; among these 33% presented with total improvement. Only 1 case in this group was handled conservatively and no improvement was documented.

This new classification is useful to group the patients into 3 clinical types to provide guidance as to the best management options. Treatment for the Type I lesion seems to be best conducted conservatively, whereas Types II and III seem to be best handled surgically.
Lumbar epidural hematoma associated with spondylolyses
Authors: Ohaegbulam Chima O. , Dunn Ian F. , d'Hemecourt Pierre , Proctor Mark R.
Published: February 2008

✓ This report describes 3 young male patients with multiple lumbar spondylolyses in combination with a symptomatic epidural hematoma. The records of all 3 patients were reviewed for clinical details. All patients were successfully treated without surgical intervention. Initial neuroimaging results for all patients revealed epidural hematomas, and follow-up imaging confirmed resolution of the hematomas. The relevant literature is briefly reviewed to examine the rarity of this combination. Spontaneous epidural hematomas may occur in the setting of spondylolysis, and this diagnosis should be considered when imaging reveals an unusual epidural lesion in a young active patient.
Two-stage decompression, reduction, and interbody fusion for lumbosacral spondyloptosis through a posterior approach using Ilizarov external fixation
Authors: Doita Minoru , Uno Koki , Maeno Koichiro , Shimomura Takatoshi , Nishida Kotaro , Fujioka Hiroyuki , Kurosaka Masahiro
Published: February 2008

✓ The suggested methods of treatment for spondyloptosis have included benign neglect, in situ fusion and variations, decompression and fusion, and vertebrectomy (the Gaines procedure). On review of the literature, the authors found no previous report in the English-language literature in which external fixation was used in the treatment of spondyloptosis.

This 33-year-old woman with spondyloptosis underwent a 2-stage operation involving decompression, reduction, and posterior fusion in which an Ilizarov external fixator and transpedicular fixation system were used. Spondylolisthesis with a slippage of angle 78° and > 100% slippage was partially reduced to 30° and 60% without neurological alterations and without complications. The postoperative follow-up showed marked improvement in her symptoms and a good cosmetic result. Reconstructed computed tomography scanning at 18 months demonstrated complete fusion. The use of external fixation in the treatment of spondyloptosis may be preferable because of its neurological safety, despite the longer duration of treatment, than single-stage operation. The authors believe posterior decompression of the cauda equina, partial reduction of the spondylolisthetic deformity, interbody fusion, and stabilization with an external fixator and transpedicular fixation system can be successfully and safely used as a 2-stage treatment for adult high-grade spondyloptosis.
Problematic retrieval of cervical polyaxial screws
Authors: Bartels Ronald H. M. A.
Published: February 2008

✓ The author describes a simple solution for retrieving a cervical polyaxial screw that could not otherwise be easily extracted.
Observation of the β‐Phase in Two Short‐Chain Oligofluorenes
Authors: Tsoi Wing C. , Charas Ana , Cadby Ashley J. , Khalil Gamal , Adawi Ali M. , Iraqi Ahmed , Hunt Barry , Morgado Jorge , Lidzey David G.
Published: February 2008

The polymer poly(9,9‐dioctylfluorene) (PF8) can be driven into a morphological form termed the β‐phase that has enhanced planarity and increased structural rigidity. We show that the β‐phase can be generated in two different fluorene oligomers; a fluorene pentamer, and a short (statistical) oligomer composed of chains having a maximum length of 19 monomer units. By comparing the energy of the zero‐zero phonon line in fluorescence from the β‐phase oligomers with that in the PF8 polymer, we show that the electronic conjugation length of the β‐phase is (30 ± 12) monomer‐units, a value consistent with the persistence length of the molecular chain.
Synthesis and Characterization of Silica Nanotubes with Radially Oriented Mesopores
Authors: Yu Yatao , Qiu Huibin , Wu Xiaowei , Li Huachun , Li Yongsheng , Sakamoto Yasuhiro , Inoue Yoshihisa , Sakamoto Kazutami , Terasaki Osamu , Che Shunai
Published: February 2008

Hierarchical silica nanotubes with radially oriented mesoporous channels perpendicular to the central axis of the tube were synthesized by using self‐assembled chiral anionic surfactant, co‐structure directing agent (CSDA) and silica precursor. The average inner diameter and the wall thickness were ∼94, ∼62, and ∼62 nm and to ∼27, ∼33, and ∼45 nm, respectively, by manipulating the synthesis gel composition, while the diameter of the wall mesopores was kept constant at ∼4 nm. These materials with such a unique structure were produced only with chiral surfactant and achiral or racemic surfactant did not give rise to mesoporous silica nanotubes. The existence of helicity in the lipid bilayer template was confirmed by means of circular dichroism spectroscopy. The mesoporous penetrating from outside to inside of silica nanotubes are thought to originate from the initial formation of self‐assembled lipid tubes with helical bilayers, which in turn re‐assemble to form the mesopores in the wall of the nanotubes upon addition of co‐structure directing agent and silica source.
Atomic Layer Deposition of UV‐Absorbing ZnO Films on SiO2 and TiO2 Nanoparticles Using a Fluidized Bed Reactor
Authors: King David M. , Liang Xinhua , Carney Casey S. , Hakim Luis F. , Li Peng , Weimer Alan W.
Published: February 2008

Atomic layer deposition (ALD) was used to apply conformal, nanothick ZnO coatings on particle substrates using a fluidized bed reactor. Diethylzinc (DEZ) and water were used as precursors at 177 °C. Observed growth rates were ca. 2.0 Å/cycle on primary particles as verified by HRTEM. ICP‐AES and XPS were used to quantify Zn:substrate ratios. Layers of 6, 18, and 30 nm were deposited on 550 nm SiO2 spheres for UV blocking cosmetics particles. TiO2 nanoparticles were coated in the second part of this work by ZnO shells of 2, 5, and 10 nm thickness as novel inorganic sunscreen particles. The specific surface area of powders changed appropriately after nanothick film deposition using optimized conditions, signifying that high SA particles can be functionalized without agglomeration. The ZnO layers were polycrystalline as deposited and narrowing of the FWHM occurred upon annealing. Annealing the ZnO‐TiO2 nanocomposite powder to 600 °C caused the formation of zinc titanate (Zn2TiO4) in both oxygen‐rich and oxygen‐deficient environments. The non‐ideal surface behavior of the DEZ precursor became problematic for the much longer times required for high surface area nanoparticle processing and results in Zn‐rich films at this growth temperature. In situ mass spectrometry provides process control capability to functionalize bulk quantities of nano‐ and ultrafine particles without significant precursor waste or process overruns. ZnO overlayers can be efficiently deposited on the surfaces of primary particles using ALD processing in a scalable fluidized bed reactor.
Magnetic Properties of Ni/NiO Nanowires Deposited onto CNT/Pt Nanocomposites
Authors: Salgueiriño‐Maceira Verónica , Correa‐Duarte Miguel A. , Bañobre‐López Manuel , Grzelczak Marek , Farle Michael , Liz‐Marzán Luis M. , Rivas José
Published: February 2008

Several nanometer‐scale technological applications rely on the promising scenario of highly anisotropic magnetic materials. Bearing this in mind, we have studied the structure, magnetic properties, and interfacial exchange anisotropy effects of unique wires of Ni/NiO synthesized using carbon nanotubes as substrates. Structural analyses of these nanocomposites in correlation with magnetic measurements show that the crystalline NiO outer shells cause an enhanced exchange bias, providing an extra source of anisotropy that leads to their magnetization stability. These Ni/NiO nanowires, with a spin‐glass‐like behavior and with their magnetic moments in a blocked state over a wide temperature range that includes room temperature, should therefore inspire further study concerning the applicability of anisotropic structures.
Room‐Temperature Self‐Organizing Characteristics of Soluble Acene Field‐Effect Transistors
Authors: Lee Wi Hyoung , Lim Jung Ah , Kim Do Hwan , Cho Jeong Ho , Jang Yunseok , Kim Yong Hoon , Han Jeong In , Cho Kilwon
Published: February 2008

We report on the room‐temperature self‐organizing characteristics of thin films of the organic small‐molecule semiconductor triethylsilylethynyl‐anthradithiophene (TES‐ADT) and its effect on the electrical properties of TES‐ADT‐based field‐effect transistors (FETs). The morphology of TES‐ADT films changed dramatically with time, and the field‐effect mobility of FETs based on these films increased about 100‐fold after seven days as a result of the change in molecular orientation from a tilted structure in the as‐prepared film to a well‐oriented structure in the final film. We found that the molecular movement is large enough to induce a conformational change to an energetically stable state in spin‐coated TES‐ADT films, because TES‐ADT has a low glass‐transition temperature (around room temperature). Our findings demonstrate that organic small‐molecule semiconductors that exhibit a low crystallinity immediately after spin‐coating can be changed into highly crystalline structures by spontaneous self‐organization of the molecules at room temperature, which results in improved electrical properties of FETs based on these semiconductors.
Evaluation of a community‐based effort to reduce blueberry harvesting injury
Authors: May John , Hawkes Lynae , Jones Amanda , Burdick Patrick , Ginley Barbara , Santiago Blanca , Rowland Michael
Published: February 2008

Background

Harvesting of blueberries is associated with musculoskeletal injury. This study assessed the effects of several alternative designs of the harvesting rake.

Methods

A community‐based work team selected rake design for intervention and pilot tested potential design modifications to the blueberry harvesting rake. An “extended” handle design was selected for comparison with the traditional short‐handle rake. Tested rakes were of two widths (70 and 80 tines) and four handle lengths (short handle; extended: 10, 14, or 16 in.). Workers rated each of five configurations after 4 hr of use. Evaluators tracked qualitative and quantitative indicators of the community‐based approach throughout.

Results

Data from 29 subjects were analyzed using two‐factor analysis of variance. There was increased productivity (P = 0.041); greater acceptability (P < 0.0001); less force (P < 0.001); and less pain (P < 0.0001) with the extended handle designs. The 80 tine width was favored over the 70. Process evaluation identified problems that generally could be addressed. Outcome evaluation indicated successful achievement of all stated goals.

Conclusions

The “extended” handle rake may prove effective in reducing musculoskeletal injury associated with blueberry harvesting. A community‐based approach to migrant farmworker injuries can be effective, particularly if employers participate. Am. J. Ind. Med. 51:307–315, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Autosomal dominant gigantiform cementoma associated with bone fractures
Authors: Moshref Mohammad , Khojasteh Arash , Kazemi Bahram , Roudsari Mohsen Vahid , Varshowsaz Masood , Eslami Behnam
Published: February 2008

Here, we report a family with gigantiform cementomas, bone fractures, and autosomal dominant inheritance. Lesions are composed of benign, lobulated, calcified masses resembling cementum. Identification of a COL1A2 mutation in one patient was a polymorphism of no pathological significance. The subject of gigantiform cementomas and the associated bone disorder is both confusing and complex. Reported familial instances indicate genetic heterogeneity with (1) osteopenia and bone fractures, (2) one form of osteogenesis imperfecta, and (3) a polyostotic diaphyseal bone disorder. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cranial nerve manifestations in CHARGE syndrome
Authors: Blake Kim D. , Hartshorne Timothy S. , Lawand Christopher , Dailor A. Nichole , Thelin James W.
Published: February 2008

Cranial nerve (CN) anomalies have been regarded as a major criterion for a clinical diagnosis of CHARGE syndrome for some time. However, there have been relatively few studies of the extent of this involvement. A detailed questionnaire (in French or English) was distributed to all physicians who participated in the 2001–2004 Canadian Paediatric Surveillance Program (CPSP), and who identified themselves as caring for an individual with CHARGE syndrome. Clinical data were collected from multiple sources for each individual, including evidence of CN dysfunction. Evidence for CN anomalies recorded by the clinical presentations and evidence from specialized testing, were: weak chewing and/or sucking (CN V), facial palsy (CN VII), sensorineural hearing loss (CN VIII), balance vestibular problems (CN VIII), and swallowing problems (CN IX/X). Data were analyzed as to the frequency of the CN anomalies and compared to the literature. At the time of this study, there were 99 individuals identified with CHARGE syndrome across Canada. The CHARGE syndrome diagnosis was confirmed by geneticists across the country. Gene testing was not available at the time of this study. Of these 92% exhibited symptoms of at least one CN anomaly, and 72% reported involvement of more than one. Isolated CN involvement was rare. Ascertainment was highest for CN IX/X, and lowest for VIII vestibular. The frequency of CN involvement was generally higher than that reported in the literature. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Screening program for Waardenburg syndrome in Colombia: Clinical definition and phenotypic variability
Authors: Tamayo Marta L. , Gelvez Nancy , Rodriguez Marcela , Florez Silvia , Varon Clara , Medina David , Bernal Jaime E.
Published: February 2008

A screening program to detect Waardenburg syndrome (WS) conducted between 2002 and 2005, among 1,763 deaf individuals throughout Columbia identified 95 affected individuals belonging to 95 families, giving a frequency of 5.38% of WS among the institutionalized deaf population. We confirmed the clinical diagnosis of WS in the 95 propositi and, through the family evaluation, we also identified 45 non‐institutionalized affected relatives. Audiologic, ophthalmologic, and genetic studies were performed to confirm the diagnosis. Following the classification of the WS consortium, based on the Waardenburg Index (WI), to define the type of WS. We classified 62.1% of the propositi as WS2 and 37.9% as WS1. We present here the results of the study of clinical manifestations, analyzing the presence, severity, and symmetry of clinical findings among this affected population. Overall, among the 95 propositi, in addition to sensorineural deafness in all, the most frequent features were broad nasal root (58.9%), a first degree relative affected (37.9%), heterochromia irides (36.8%), skin hypopigmentation (31.6%), white forelock (28.0%), intense blue iris (27.4%), synophrys (12.6%), premature graying (10.5%), ptosis of the eyelids (9.5%), and hypoplasia alae nasi (1.1%). The majority of individuals had normal psychomotor development (87%), while the remaining 13% had developmental delay. Among the latter, 9.4% corresponded to WS2 and 3.6% to WS1. Our data confirm an interesting inter‐ and intrafamilial variability in the phenotypic manifestations as well as extremely variable expression. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Phenomic, Convergent Functional Genomic, and biomarker studies in a stress‐reactive genetic animal model of bipolar disorder and co‐morbid alcoholism
Authors: Le‐Niculescu H. , McFarland M.J. , Ogden C.A. , Balaraman Y. , Patel S. , Tan J. , Rodd Z.A. , Paulus M. , Geyer M.A. , Edenberg H.J. , Glatt S.J. , Faraone S.V. , Nurnberger J.I. , Kuczenski R. , Tsuang M.T. , Niculescu A.B.
Published: February 2008

We had previously identified the clock gene D‐box binding protein (Dbp) as a potential candidate gene for bipolar disorder and for alcoholism, using a Convergent Functional Genomics (CFG) approach. Here we report that mice with a homozygous deletion of DBP have lower locomotor activity, blunted responses to stimulants, and gain less weight over time. In response to a chronic stress paradigm, these mice exhibit a diametric switch in these phenotypes. DBP knockout mice are also activated by sleep deprivation, similar to bipolar patients, and that activation is prevented by treatment with the mood stabilizer drug valproate. Moreover, these mice show increased alcohol intake following exposure to stress. Microarray studies of brain and blood reveal a pattern of gene expression changes that may explain the observed phenotypes. CFG analysis of the gene expression changes identified a series of novel candidate genes and blood biomarkers for bipolar disorder, alcoholism, and stress reactivity. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Synthesis and characterization of epoxy/amine terminated amide‐imide‐imide blends
Authors: Bhuvana S. , Sarojadevi M.
Published: February 2008

A new amine terminated amide‐imide (ATAI) was synthesized by the polycondensation reaction of tetrimide dicarboxylic acid containing bulky m‐chloro phenyl pendant with p‐phenylene diamine. The structure of all the prepared compounds were confirmed by FTIR,1H‐NMR and 13C‐NMR techniques. This new diamine was then used to cure epoxy resin namely diglycidyl ester of bisphenol‐A and the cure reaction was studied by Differential scanning calorimetry. The cured blends show better thermal properties. The Tg of the epoxy resin was increased from 134°C to 156°C on addition of 6% of ATAI. The DMA results indicate that the polymer blend with 8% ATAI composition has higher storage modulus compared to 3% and 6% ATAI composition. The polymer blends with 3% and 6% ATAI composition have higher crosslinking density and lower intersegmental and intrasegmental friction coefficients than 8% ATAI composition. In the DMA curves an increase in the peak half‐width was observed with increasing ATAI composition, indicating the possibility of the existence of more than one phase with increasing ATAI concentration. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Synthesis of polyurethane resins and its improvement on dimensional stability and finishing performances of medium‐ and small‐diameter softwoods
Authors: Lu Kun‐Tsung , Lin Shih‐Ling
Published: February 2008

This study analyzed the effects of polyurethane (PU) resin treatments on surface homogeneity, dimensional stability, and finishing performances of medium‐ and small‐diameter softwoods produced in Taiwan. Two‐pack PU resins were prepared by combing short castor oil‐modified alkyd resin serving as a polyol with polymeric 4,4′‐diphenymethane diisocyanate (PMDI) serving as a hardener, by the molar ratio of NCO/OH+COOH of 1.2. Four types of short oil‐modified alkyd resins with different polyhydric alcohols (glycerin and pentaerythritol) and polybasic acids (phthalic anhydride and isophthalic acid) were synthesized. Three kinds of medium‐ and small‐diameter softwoods, including China fir, Taiwanina, and Japanese fir with a diameter of 10–15 cm were obtained from Hui‐Sun Forest Station, Taiwan. The wood coating of nitrocellulose (NC) lacquer including sanding sealer and top clear was used. Results show that the surface hardness, homogeneity, moisture excluding efficiency, and antiswelling efficiency of woods were enhanced by PU resin treatments. Among all the PU resins, the isophthalic acid and pentaerythritol‐containing PU resin (IPA‐P‐MDI) achieved the best improved efficiency on dimensional stability of woods. Results of two types of finishing procedure, i.e. NC lacquer sanding sealer plus top clear and top clear only, applied onto the PU‐treated woods revealed that the hardness, adhesion, and durability of NC lacquer films on the PU‐treated wood were superior to those of untreated one, especially for top clear finishing alone. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Dynamic mechanical analysis of urea–formaldehyde resin adhesives with different formaldehyde‐to‐urea molar ratios
Authors: Park Byung‐Dae , Kim Jae‐Woo
Published: February 2008

As a part of abating formaldehyde emissions of urea–formaldehyde (UF) resin adhesives, using dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA), we attempted to investigate the influence of the formaldehyde to urea (F/U) molar ratio on the thermomechanical curing of UF resin adhesives with different F/U molar ratios. The thermomechanical curing of these UF resin adhesives was characterized with DMA parameters such as the gel temperature, maximum storage modulus, peak temperatures of the storage and loss moduli, and maximum tan δ. As the F/U molar ratio decreased, the gel temperature of UF resin adhesives increased, whereas the maximum storage modulus, an indicator of the rigidity of UF resin adhesives, decreased. The maximum tan δ increased with the F/U molar ratio decreasing, and this indicated that the UF resin adhesive with a low F/U molar ratio had greater damping than the one with a high F/U molar ratio. A decrease in the rigidity of the UF resin with a lower F/U molar ratio was explained by the calculated crosslinking density, which decreased with the F/U molar ratio decreasing. These results partially explained why UF resin adhesives with lower F/U molar ratios showed relatively poor adhesion performance when they were applied to the manufacture of wood panels. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Synthesis of an amide/carboxylate copolymer for barium titanate suspensions. I. As a dispersant
Authors: Chen Lung‐Pin , Hsu Kung‐Chung
Published: February 2008

An anionic copolymer, that is, poly[methacrylamide‐co‐(ammonium methacrylate)] (PMMN), was synthesized for the purpose of application to barium titanate (BT) suspensions. The chemical structure of the prepared polymer was verified with IR and 1H‐NMR spectra. PMMN has the potential to have a double function of dispersant and binder for BT suspensions because it contains both amide groups, which are expected to bring a binder contribution, and carboxylate groups, which are expected to bring a dispersant contribution. In this article, the dispersion effects of PMMN with different monomer ratios are examined and evaluated through viscosity and sedimentation measurements. The results indicate that this polymer could uniformly disperse the particles and make the resulting suspensions less viscous and more stabilized. PMMN with a methacrylamide/ammonium methacrylate ratio of 60/40 appears to be most effective, as this polymer induces sufficient electrostatic forces among particles when it is adsorbed onto BT powder. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
A simple imide compound as a curing agent for epoxy resin. I. Synthesis and properties
Authors: Wu Wan‐Lung , Hsu Kung‐Chung , Cheng Wu‐Hsun
Published: February 2008

A simple imide compound, 4‐amino‐phthalimide (APH), was synthesized as a curing agent for epoxy resin. APH was prepared from the hydration of 4‐nitro‐phthalimide, which was prepared from the nitration of phthalimide. The chemical structure of APH was verified by IR and 1H‐NMR spectra. The thermal properties and dielectric constant (ε) of a phosphorus‐containing novolac epoxy resin cured by APH were determined and compared with those of epoxy resins cured by either 4,4′‐diamino diphenyl methane (DDM) or 4,4′‐diamino diphenyl sulfone (DDS). The results indicate that the epoxy resin cured by APH showed better thermal stability and a lower ε than the polymer cured by either DDM or DDS. This was due to the introduction of the imide group of APH into the polymer structure. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Synthesis, characterization, and photophysics of a novel conjugated polymer with 1,3,4‐oxadiazole, carbazole, and naphthalene units
Authors: Feng Liheng , Wang Xiaoju , Chen Zhaobin
Published: February 2008

A polymer containing 1,3,4‐oxadiazole and carbazole units in the main chain and naphthalene moieties as side groups (P‐OCN) was synthesized by the Wittig reaction of [2,5‐bis(3‐tolylene)1′,3′,4‐oxadiazole]‐9‐(α‐naphthyl)‐carbazole polymer (P‐OCN). The optical properties were investigated with ultraviolet–visible absorption and fluorescence emission spectra. The results showed that the luminescence quantum yield of P‐OCN was 0.673 in chloroform, and it emitted blue and blue‐green light with a band gap of 3.49 eV estimated from the onset absorption. Thermogravimetric analysis and differential scanning calorimetry showed that the polymer exhibited good thermal stability up to 354°C with a glass‐transition temperature higher than 110°C. To investigate the donating and accepting capacities of P‐OCN, the fluorescent quenching technique was used to determinate the interactions between the polymer and the electron donor and electron acceptor. The results showed that the light emission could be quenched by both the electron donor (N,N‐dimethylaniline) and electron acceptor (dimethylterephthalate). Furthermore, the interaction between P‐OCN and fullerene was also studied with fluorescent quenching, and the processes followed the Stern–Volmer equation. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008