bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preliminary Interlaboratory Trial for ISO/DIS 12010: Determination of Short Chain Polychlorinated Alkanes (SCCP) in Water
Authors: Geiß Sabine , Lettmann Nicole , Rey Aurélien , Lepper Herbert , Körner Birgit , Mais Silvio , Prey Theodor , Hilger Bettina , Engelke Moana , Lebertz Stephan , Chatellier Claudine , Sawal George , Löffler Dirk , Schillings Tom
Published: May 2011

A first preliminary interlaboratory trial was planned to prepare ISO/DIS 12010: Water quality – determination of short chain polychlorinated alkanes (SCCP) in water – method using GC/MS and electron capture negative ionisation (ECNI). The task was to determine the sum of short chain polychlorinated n‐alkanes with carbon chain lengths of C10–C13 and a chlorine content between 49 and 67% in water by GC‐ECNI‐MS and quantification by multiple linear regression described in ISO/DIS 12010 as the compulsory method. Distributed samples were obtained from a real water extract spiked with a target concentration of 0.4 µg/mL sum of SCCP, i.e. the environmental quality target level according to the Water Framework Directive. The interlaboratory trial included the calibration, a column chromatographic clean up, a concentration step and an integration of chromatographic unresolved humps as well as the quantification with multiple linear regression. Reproducibility standard deviations between 21.5 and 22.9% were achieved by 17 participating laboratories from four countries. The method outlined no significant difference of the results between the standard solution and a real water matrix extract. On the basis of this succeeded preliminary interlaboratory trial the final interlaboratory trial for validation of ISO 12010 was prepared in autumn 2010.
Analyses of the spatiotemporal expression and subcellular localization of liprin‐α proteins
Authors: Zürner Magdalena , Mittelstaedt Tobias , tom Dieck Susanne , Becker Albert , Schoch Susanne
Published: May 2011

The members of the Liprin‐α protein family, Liprin‐α1–4, are scaffolding proteins that play important roles in the regulation of synapse assembly and maturation, vesicular trafficking, and cell motility. Recent evidence suggests that despite their high degree of homology, the four isoforms can be differentially regulated and fulfill diverging functions. However, to date their precise regional and subcellular distribution has remained elusive. Here, we examine the spatiotemporal expression patterns of Liprins‐α in the rodent by using in situ hybridization, immunoblotting, and immunochemistry of primary cells as well as brain and retina sections. We show that Liprin‐α1–4 mRNA and protein are widely expressed throughout the developing and adult central nervous system, with Liprin‐α2 and ‐α3 being the major Liprin‐α isoforms in the brain. Our data show that the four Liprin‐α proteins differ in their regional distribution, in particular in the hippocampus, the cerebellum, and the olfactory bulb. Liprin‐α1 exhibits a unique spatiotemporal expression pattern as its levels decrease during synaptogenesis, and it is the only Liprin‐α with substantial non‐neuronal expression. Immunocytochemistry of cultured primary neurons with pre‐ and postsynaptic marker proteins shows all four Liprins‐α to be present at synapses and nonsynaptic sites to varying degrees. Together, these results show that neurons in different brain regions express a distinct complement of Liprin‐α proteins. J. Comp. Neurol. 519:3019–3039, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Differential expression of liprin‐α family proteins in the brain suggests functional diversification
Authors: Spangler Samantha A. , Jaarsma Dick , De Graaff Esther , Wulf Phebe S. , Akhmanova Anna , Hoogenraad Casper C.
Published: May 2011

Liprin‐α proteins are major protein constituents of synapses and are important for the organization of synaptic vesicles and neurotransmitter receptors on their respective sides of the synapse. Although it is becoming apparent that the single liprin‐α gene in invertebrates is essential for synapse function, it is not known to what extent the four different liprin‐α homologs (liprin‐α1–4) in mammals are involved at synapses. We have designed specific antibodies against each of the four liprin‐α proteins and investigated their regional and cellular distribution in the brain. Here we show that all four liprin‐α proteins are present throughout the mature brain but have different regional distributions, which is highlighted by their differential localization in olfactory bulb, hippocampus, and cerebellar cortex. Double‐immunofluorescence staining indicates that different liprin‐α proteins are enriched in different synaptic populations but are also present at nonsynaptic sites. In particular, liprin‐α2 is preferentially associated with hippocampal mossy fiber endings in the CA3, whereas synapses in the molecular layers of the CA1 and dentate gyrus double‐labeled for liprin‐α3. The localization of liprin‐α2 and liprin‐α3 with excitatory synapses was confirmed in cultured primary hippocampal neurons. Liprin‐α4, which poorly co‐distributed with presynaptic markers in hippocampus, instead strongly co‐localized with VGLUT1 in the cerebellar molecular layer, suggesting its presence in parallel fiber‐Purkinje cell synapses. Finally, staining of cultured glial cells indicated that liprin‐α1 and liprin‐α3 are also associated with astrocytes. We conclude that liprin‐α family proteins might perform independent and specialized synaptic and nonsynaptic functions in different regions of the brain. J. Comp. Neurol. 519:3040–3060, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Galanin neurons in the intermediate nucleus (InM) of the human hypothalamus in relation to sex, age, and gender identity
Authors: Garcia‐Falgueras Alicia , Ligtenberg Lisette , Kruijver Frank P.M. , Swaab Dick F.
Published: May 2011

The intermediate nucleus (InM) in the preoptic area of the human brain, also known as the sexually dimorphic nucleus of the preoptic area (SDN‐POA) and the interstitial nucleus of the anterior hypothalamus‐1 (INAH‐1) is explored here. We investigated its population of galanin‐immunoreactive (Gal‐Ir) neurons in relation to sex, age, and gender identity in the postmortem brain of 77 subjects. First we compared the InM volume and number of Gal‐Ir neurons of 22 males and 22 females in the course of aging. In a second experiment, we compared for the first time the InM volume and the total and Gal‐Ir neuron number in 43 subjects with different gender identities: 14 control males (M), 11 control females (F), 10 male‐to‐female (MtF) transsexual people, and 5 men who were castrated because of prostate cancer (CAS). In the first experiment we found a sex difference in the younger age group (<45 years of age), i.e., a larger volume and Gal‐Ir neuron number in males and an age difference, with a decrease in volume and Gal‐Ir neuron number in males > 45 years. In the second experiment the MtF transsexual group presented an intermediate value for the total InM neuron number and volume that did not seem different in males and females. Because the CAS group did not have total neuron numbers that were different from the intact males, the change in adult circulating testosterone levels does not seem to explain the intermediate values in the MtF group. Organizational and activational hormone effects on the InM are discussed. J. Comp. Neurol. 519:3061–3084, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Genetic tracing of Nav1.8‐expressing vagal afferents in the mouse
Authors: Gautron Laurent , Sakata Ichiro , Udit Swalpa , Zigman Jeffrey M. , Wood John N. , Elmquist Joel K.
Published: May 2011

Nav1.8 is a tetrodotoxin‐resistant sodium channel present in large subsets of peripheral sensory neurons, including both spinal and vagal afferents. In spinal afferents, Nav1.8 plays a key role in signaling different types of pain. Little is known, however, about the exact identity and role of Nav1.8‐expressing vagal neurons. Here we generated mice with restricted expression of tdTomato fluorescent protein in all Nav1.8‐expressing afferent neurons. As a result, intense fluorescence was visible in the cell bodies, central relays, and sensory endings of these neurons, revealing the full extent of their innervation sites in thoracic and abdominal viscera. For instance, vagal and spinal Nav1.8‐expressing endings were seen clearly within the gastrointestinal mucosa and myenteric plexus, respectively. In the gastrointestinal muscle wall, labeled endings included a small subset of vagal tension receptors but not any stretch receptors. We also examined the detailed innervation of key metabolic tissues such as liver and pancreas and evaluated the anatomical relationship of Nav1.8‐expressing vagal afferents with select enteroendocrine cells (i.e., ghrelin, glucagon, GLP‐1). Specifically, our data revealed the presence of Nav1.8‐expressing vagal afferents in several metabolic tissues and varying degrees of proximity between Nav1.8‐expressing mucosal afferents and enteroendocrine cells, including apparent neuroendocrine apposition. In summary, this study demonstrates the power and versatility of the Cre‐LoxP technology to trace identified visceral afferents, and our data suggest a previously unrecognized role for Nav1.8‐expressing vagal neurons in gastrointestinal functions. J. Comp. Neurol. 519:3085–3101, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
General visceral and gustatory connections of the posterior thalamic nucleus of goldfish
Authors: Kato Takeshi , Yamada Yusuke , Yamamoto Naoyuki
Published: May 2011

Fiber connections of the posterior thalamic nucleus were studied in goldfish. Tracer injections into the rostral part of posterior thalamic nucleus labeled somata and terminals in the medial subnucleus of commissural nucleus of Cajal, secondary general visceral nucleus, a nucleus tentatively identified as the preglomerular general visceral nucleus, torus lateralis, inferior lobar nuclei, preoptic area, dorsal region of medial part of dorsal telencephalic area, and supracommissural part of ventral telencephalic area. Labeled terminals were observed in the lateral subnucleus of commissural nucleus of Cajal; primary gustatory centers, in particular the vagal lobe; and lateral valvular nucleus. Other occasional connections were also observed in a number of structures. The results of tracer injections to the brainstem general visceral and gustatory structures suggested reciprocal connections with the caudal part of posterior thalamic nucleus. These findings suggest that the posterior thalamic nucleus is primarily a general visceral/gustatory structure, serving as a forebrain integration center of visceral information. Descending fibers to the vagal lobe presumably represent a major channel through which the forebrain regulates pharyngeal feeding behavior. J. Comp. Neurol. 519:3102–3123, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Motoneurons, DUM cells, and sensory neurons in an insect thoracic ganglion: A tracing study in the stick insect Carausius morosus
Authors: Goldammer Jens , Büschges Ansgar , Schmidt Joachim
Published: May 2011

Anatomical features of leg motoneurons, dorsal unpaired median (DUM) cells, and sensory neurons in stick insect mesothoracic ganglia were examined using fluorescent dye backfills of lateral nerves. Structures were analyzed in whole‐mounts of ganglia and transverse sections. Numbers of motoneurons and details of their structure by far exceed previously published data. The general neuroanatomical layout of motoneurons matches the general orthopteran pattern. Cell bodies of excitatory motoneurons form clusters in the lateral cortex, dendrites branch mainly in the dorsal neuropil. We identified nine DUM cells, six of which have axons in nerve nl5. Most sensory fibers terminate in the ventral association center (VAC). Twenty‐three small cell bodies located close to the soma of the fast extensor tibiae motoneuron likely belong to strand receptors. Labeled structures are compared with previously published data from stick insects and other orthopterous insects. J. Comp. Neurol. 520:230–257, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Neurochemical phenotypes of myenteric neurons in the rhesus monkey
Authors: Noorian Ali Reza , Taylor Georgia M. , Annerino Dana M. , Greene James G.
Published: May 2011

Understanding the neurochemical composition of the enteric nervous system (ENS) is critical for elucidating neurological function in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract in health and disease. Despite their status as the closest models of human neurological systems, relatively little is known about enteric neurochemistry in nonhuman primates. We describe neurochemical coding of the enteric nervous system, specifically the myenteric plexus, of the rhesus monkey (Macaca mulatta) by immunohistochemistry and directly compare it to human tissues. There are considerable differences in the myenteric plexus along different segments of the monkey GI tract. While acetylcholine neurons make up the majority of myenteric neurons in the stomach (70%), they are a minority in the rectum (47%). Conversely, only 22% of gastric myenteric neurons express nitric oxide synthase (NOS) compared to 52% in the rectum. Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) is more prominent in the stomach (37%) versus the rest of the GI tract (≈10%), and catecholamine neurons are rare (≈1%). There is significant coexpression of NOS and VIP in myenteric neurons that is more prominent in the proximal GI tract. Taken as a whole, these data provide insight into the neurochemical anatomy underlying GI motility. While overall similarity to other mammalian species is clear, there are some notable differences between the ENS of rhesus monkeys, humans, and other species that will be important to take into account when evaluating models of human diseases in animals. J. Comp. Neurol. 519:3387–3401, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Synthesis of Soybean Oil‐Based Thiol Oligomers
Authors: Wu Jennifer F. , Fernando Shashi , Weerasinghe Dimuthu , Chen Zhigang , Webster Dean C.
Published: May 2011

Industrial grade soybean oil (SBO) and thiols were reacted to generate thiol‐functionalized oligomers via a thermal, free radical initiated thiol–ene reaction between the SBO double bond moieties and the thiol functional groups. The effect of the reaction conditions, including thiol concentration, catalyst loading level, reaction time, and atmosphere, on the molecular weight and the conversion to the resultant soy–thiols were examined in a combinatorial high‐throughput fashion using parallel synthesis, combinatorial FTIR, and rapid gel permeation chromatography (GPC). High thiol functionality and concentration, high thermal free radical catalyst concentration, long reaction time, and the use of a nitrogen reaction atmosphere were found to favor fast consumption of the SBO, and produced high molecular weight products. The thiol conversion during the reaction was inversely affected by a high thiol concentration, but was favored by a long reaction time and an air reaction atmosphere. These experimental observations were explained by the initial low affinity of the SBO and thiol, and the improved affinity between the generated soy–thiol oligomers and unreacted SBO during the reaction. The synthesized soy–thiol oligomers can be used for renewable thiol–ene UV curable materials and high molecular solids and thiourethane thermal cure materials.
On‐line wavelet filtering of narrowband noise in signal detection of spread spectrum system for location tracking
Authors: Luo G. Y.
Published: May 2011

Spread spectrum signal transmitted by wireless channel for location tracking can be severely corrupted by noise due to external disturbances. Narrowband noise is the most effective interference that can make measurement signal undetected. However, the current methods for narrowband interference (NBI) suppression are either very time‐consuming or add distortion to the signal received. In this paper, an adaptive Gaussian wavelet filter with optimal time–frequency localization and variable notch depth is proposed to suppress a large number of NBIs with additive white Gaussian noise and pulsed noise that interfere with the spread spectrum communication system. The filtering of both continuous and time‐varying NBIs with fast resampling is performed in conjunction with the fast Fourier transform‐based correlation for peak detection, and is computationally efficient for real‐time operation of signal detection. The performance of the adaptive filter has been evaluated by experiments employing a reliable noise detector. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed wavelet filter isolates the signals from the NBI in accordance with the corrupted frequency contents while preserving the desired spread spectrum signal, and improves signal to noise ratio for peak detection leading to higher accuracy of timing measurement for real‐time wireless location. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis, Structure, and Ring‐Opening Polymerization Catalysis of Zinc Complexes Containing Amido Phosphinimine Ligands
Authors: Liang Lan‐Chang , Tsai Tzung‐Ling , Li Chun‐Wei , Hsu Yu‐Lin , Lee Ting‐Yu
Published: May 2011

A series of amido phosphinimine ligands of the type [(NAr1)‐o‐(Ph2P=NAr2)C6H4]– (2a: Ar1 = 2,6‐C6H3iPr2, Ar2 = 2,6‐C6H3iPr2; 2b: Ar1 = 2,6‐C6H3iPr2, Ar2 = 2,4,6‐C6H2Me3; 2c: Ar1 = 2,6‐C6H3Me2, Ar2 = 2,4,6‐C6H2Me3), which are electronic variations of monoanionic β‐diketiminates, have been employed to examine the coordination chemistry of zinc. Alkane elimination reactions of ZnR2 (R = Me, Et) with H[2a–c] in toluene or ethereal solutions at –35 °C afforded cleanly the corresponding organozinc complexes [2a–c]ZnMe (3a–c) and [2a–c]ZnEt (4a–c). Deprotonation of H[2a–c] with nBuLi at –35 °C generated [2a–c]Li (5a–c), which may be isolated as either solvent‐free complexes or solvated adducts depending on the reaction solvents employed (toluene, OEt2, or THF). Metathetical reactions of 5a·OEt2 with Zn(OAc)2 in THF at –35 °C produced [2a]Zn(OAc) (6a). These amido phosphinimine derivatives all display solution Cs symmetry on the NMR timescale. The mononuclear nature of the three‐coordinate alkyls 3–4 and four‐coordinate acetate 6a was confirmed by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analyses. Interestingly, the alkyl complexes 3a–c and 4a–c are all active initiators for the catalytic ring‐opening polymerization of ϵ‐caprolactone, whereas the acetate 6a is comparatively inactive.
Influence of Poly(3‐octylthiophene) on the Water Transport Through Methacrylic‐Acrylic Based Polymer Membranes
Authors: Sundfors Fredrik , Höfler Lajos , Gyurcsányi Róbert E. , Lindfors Tom
Published: May 2011

Accumulation of water in ion‐selective membranes, can lead to inconsistent potentiometric responses with solid‐contact ion‐selective electrode (SC‐ISE) formats, and hence it is essential to restrain their water uptake. We have used FTIR‐ATR spectroscopy to study how the water uptake is influenced by the intermixing of a poly(3‐octylthiophene) (POT) SC and a poly(methyl methacrylate):poly(n‐decyl methacrylate) (PMMA:PDMA) based polymeric membrane matrix, the only SC‐ISE system for which direct evidence was provided on the aqueous layer elimination. Numerical simulations of the FTIR‐ATR spectra of 1 or 5 wt% POT containing PMMA:PDMA membranes showed that the addition of 5 wt% POT to the membrane lowered the equilibrium water uptake, whereas the diffusion coefficients of water in the membrane were found to be less affected. Consequently, POT is beneficial for preventing the formation of detrimental water layers in the SC‐ISE structure.
Antipassivating Electrochemical Process of Glassy Carbon Electrode (GCE) Dedicated to the Oxidation of Nitrophenol Compounds
Authors: Pontié M. , Thouand G. , De Nardi F. , Tapsoba I. , Lherbette S.
Published: May 2011

We report for the first time a novel electrochemical treatment applied to a glassy carbon electrode (GCE) during p‐nitrophenol (PNP) oxidation and dedicated to the limitation of electrode passivation by nitrophenol compounds oxidation. We propose an electrochemical process of direct phenol oxidation by starting the electrolysis at a very low potential, −1.2 V/SCE, in order to generate a soluble monomer, p‐aminophenol, on the electrode surface. Then, p‐aminophenol elaborated on the electrode surface in the place of oligomers, gives benzoquinone as a by‐product and no film formation was observed. Furthermore, the presence of a p‐NiTSPc (film of nickel tetrasulfonated phtalocyanine) coating permitted to increase two times the electrode sensitivity without passivation, too.
Electrochemical oxidation of sulfide in oil wastewater using Ti/Iro2 anode
Authors: Wang Yuting , Li Miao , Feng Chuanping , Zhang Zhenya
Published: May 2011

The removal of sulfide from the effluent of oil wastewater containing high concentrations of chloride ions was studied with an electrochemical oxidation technique using a Ti/IrO2 anode. It was found that current density can enhance the removal of sulfide. At a current density of 25 mA/cm2, nearly 90.5% sulfide was oxidized in 10 min. At a fixed current density of 16.67 mA/cm2, a low initial concentration of sulfide (4.21 mg/L) was completely oxidized in 5 min while a high initial concentration of sulfide (50 mg/L) required 25 min for full oxidation. A synthetic solution was also used to investigate the effect of NaCl concentration, pH, and temperature on sulfide removal, and the results were discussed. NaCl concentration, acid conditions, and high temperature can all increase the removal of sulfide. The removal of sulfide was also investigated by using oxidation reduction potential (ORP). When the sulfide was completely oxidized, the ORP of the solution changed from negative (−300 to −600 mV) to positive. This study shows that, in general, the electrochemical method was effective for the removal of sulfide from oil wastewater. © 2011 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 2011
Seismic behavior of bridges with pier and foundation strengthening: PsD tests and analytical study
Authors: Chotesuwan Anawat , Mutsuyoshi Hiroshi , Maki Takeshi
Published: May 2011

By means of a simplified three degrees of freedom model, seismic behavior of reinforced concrete bridge piers and foundations were evaluated based on pseudo‐dynamic (PsD) tests for cases where pier strengthening and foundation strengthening are implemented. In addition, analysis based on PsD test results was conducted to investigate the influence of pier strengthening on seismic damage to the foundation. The PsD tests and the analysis show that the foundation suffers increased hysteretic response when pier strengthening is applied. The results also show that the foundation strengthening can prevent foundation damage. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Algebraic multigrid and discrete calculus representations of coupled‐fields
Authors: Webster R.
Published: May 2011

This paper discusses the application of scalar algebraic multigrid methods to the solution of discrete approximations to coupled scalar‐vector fields. All discretizations considered are based on the direct enforcement of the conservation laws on chosen control volumes. They are distinguished by different choices for the field variables. Both local (point based) and non‐local (domain based) variables are considered; these include variables associated with volumes (cells), areas (faces), lines (edges) and points (nodes) of the computational mesh. Two algebraic multigrid (AMG) methods are applied; both are based on the scalar unknown approach of Ruge and Stueben, but distinguished by exploiting different Galerkin coarse grid approximations (CGAs). The first is the classical method (C‐AMG) in which the CGAs are based on system reduction by subset selection. The second is the method of Vanek and others, in which the CGA is based on system reduction by aggregation (SA‐AMG). Clearly, for consistent coarse‐grid approximations, the equations must be capable of being sensibly combined in the case of SA‐AMG, and that chosen subsets be sensibly representative in the case of C‐AMG. By addressing different discrete formulations of the Stokes problem, the investigation shows that some formulations, which may be convergent using single‐grid solution methods, may not be convergent when using scalar AMG solvers. This is because they do not allow the coarsening criteria mentioned earlier to be satisfied without additional explicit geometrical/topological information, that is, the equation system alone does not contain sufficient information to permit the construction of consistent CGAs. The findings remind us that, for consistent CGAs, the coarsening process should always respect both the equation type (scalar, vector, etc) and the topology of those space elements that are an integral part of the field description (oriented points, lines, areas and volumes). A more general approach to AMG seems to be required for discrete calculus applications, possibly based on the methods of algebraic topology. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Modeling low Reynolds number incompressible flows with curved boundaries using SPH
Authors: Liang C. X. , Zhang C. Y. , Liu H. Y. , Qin Z. R. , Wang Q.
Published: May 2011

In this paper, a method that can be used to model low Reynolds number incompressible flows with curved boundaries using SPH was presented. In contrast to that usually used for the flows with flat and straight boundaries, the hydrostatic pressure gradient is treated as a variable body force in this method, and thus, it can be applied to simulate the flows with curved boundaries. Three numerical examples of low Reynolds number incompressible flows, including Poiseuille flow, flow in a section of blood vessel with a local expansion, and flow between inclined plates were calculated to test the method. The results obtained with the proposed method were in good agreement with the analytical solutions. It implies that the method presented in this paper can be successfully used to simulate low Reynolds number incompressible flows not only with flat and straight boundaries but also with curved boundaries. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Diagnosis and management of parotid carcinoma with a special focus on recent advances in molecular biology
Authors: Vander Poorten Vincent , Bradley Patrick J. , Takes Robert P. , Rinaldo Alessandra , Woolgar Julia A. , Ferlito Alfio
Published: May 2011

Recent progress in diagnosis, treatment, prognosis, and outcome of parotid cancer is reviewed. Modern imaging allows evaluation of the anatomical extent of the cancer and its relationship to the facial nerve, and the World Health Organization (WHO) Histological Classification facilitates accurate, consistent diagnosis. Surgery remains the treatment of choice with preservation of a functioning facial nerve. Resection of the facial nerve should only be undertaken when there is clinical evidence of nerve dysfunction. The NO neck should be treated in advanced‐stage and high‐grade cancers, but the choice between elective surgery and elective irradiation remains controversial. Low‐stage, low‐grade tumors can generally be cured by surgery alone. Postoperative radiotherapy improves locoregional control in all other tumor stages and grades. Currently, the diagnostic and therapeutic approach to parotid cancer offer few options for a class of neoplasms that has many subtypes each with a unique molecular background and variable clinical behavior. Nonetheless, this approach results in a satisfactory locoregional cancer control, making distant metastasis the most frequent cause for treatment failure. At present, systemic treatment for distant failure is disappointing, although recent progress in molecular biology has suggested that adding targeted therapy should achieve tumor response or stabilization. Although disease control remains variable, the prognosis of individual patients can be increasingly accurately predicted by multivariate analysis. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2012
Addressing inpatient crowding by smoothing occupancy at children's hospitals
Authors: Fieldston Evan S. , Hall Matthew , Shah Samir S. , Hain Paul D. , Sills Marion R. , Slonim Anthony D. , Myers Angela L. , Cannon Courtney , Pati Susmita
Published: May 2011

OBJECTIVE:

To quantify the difference in weekday versus weekend occupancy, and the opportunity to smooth inpatient occupancy to reduce crowding at children's hospitals.

METHODS:

Daily inpatient census data for 39 freestanding, tertiary‐care children's hospitals were used to calculate occupancy and to model the impact of reducing variation in occupancy and the change in the number of patients, patient‐days, and hospitals exposed to high occupancy pre‐ and post‐smoothing. We also calculated the proportion of weekly admissions that would require different scheduling to achieve within‐week smoothing.

RESULTS:

Overall, hospitals' mean occupancy ranged from 70.9% to 108.1% on weekdays, and 65.7% to 94.9% on weekends. Weekday occupancy exceeded weekend occupancy with a median difference of 8.2% points. The mean post‐smoothing reduction in weekly maximum occupancy across all hospitals was 6.6% points. Through smoothing, 39,607 patients from the 39 hospitals were removed from exposure to occupancy levels >95%. To achieve within‐week smoothing, a median 2.6% of admissions would have to be scheduled on a different day of the week; this equates to a median of 7.4 patients per week (range: 2.3–14.4).

CONCLUSION:

Hospitals do have substantial unused capacity, and smoothing occupancy over the course of a week could be a useful strategy that hospitals can use to reduce crowding and protect patients from crowded conditions. Journal of Hospital Medicine 2011;6:466–473. © 2011 Society of Hospital Medicine
A hairy business—Periostracal hair formation in two species of helicoid snails (Gastropoda, Stylommatophora, Helicoidea)
Authors: Allgaier Christoph
Published: May 2011

In molluscs, the calcareous shell is covered externally by a thin organic layer, the periostracum. The periostracum of some pulmonate species is of special taxonomic interest because it bears distinct microscale architectures. Where and how these structures are formed is as yet unknown. Using histological sections through their shells, gelatin cuts, and live observations I studied the pattern by which the periostracal hair‐like projections in two helicoid land snail species are secreted and evenly arranged on the shell. The results indicate a complex mechanism: a hair is formed in the periostracal groove independently of the periostracum, after which it is attached to the edge of the shell, drawn out of the tissue, and finally swivelled to the upper side of the periostracum. Upon further growth of the periostracum, the hairs are finally fixed upright on the shell. J. Morphol. 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
MR perfusion‐weighted imaging may help in differentiating between nonenhancing gliomas and nonneoplastic lesions in the cervicomedullary junction
Authors: Liu Xiang , Kolar Balasubramanya , Tian Wei , Germin Barbara I. , Huang Yuqing , Hu Rui , Zhong Jianhui , Ekholm Sven
Published: May 2011

Purpose:

To evaluate the ability of dynamic susceptibility‐weighted contrast‐enhanced magnetic resonance (MR) perfusion imaging (DSC‐PWI) in distinguishing between nonenhancing gliomas and nonenhancing, nonneoplastic lesions in the cervicomedullary junction region.

Materials and Methods:

This retrospective study involved eight patients with nonenhancing gliomas in the medulla oblongata and eight patients with nonenhancing nonneoplastic lesions. The relative cerebral blood volume (rCBV) ratios, peak heights, and percentage of signal intensity recovery derived from time‐signal intensity curves of these nonenhancing lesions were compared.

Results:

The mean peak height of nonenhancing gliomas was significantly higher than the value of their reference regions of interest (ROIs). In contrast, mean peak height of nonneoplastic lesions was significantly lower than their reference ROIs. The mean peak height and mean maximal rCBV ratio of nonenhancing gliomas were significantly higher than those of nonenhancing, nonneoplastic lesions (P<0.05). There was no significant difference with regard to percentage of signal intensity recovery between the two groups.

Conclusion:

DSC‐PWI could be a useful adjuvant tool to differentiate between nonenhancing gliomas and nonenhancing, nonneoplastic lesions in the cervicomedullary junction region. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2011;. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Comparison of a 32‐channel with a 12‐channel head coil: Are there relevant improvements for functional imaging?
Authors: Kaza Evangelia , Klose Uwe , Lotze Martin
Published: May 2011

Purpose:

To evaluate the suitability of a 12‐ or 32‐channel head coil and of a prescan normalization filter for functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) studies at different brain regions.

Materials and Methods:

fMRI was obtained from 36 volunteers executing a visually instructed motor paradigm using a 12‐channel head matrix coil and a 32‐channel phased‐array head coil with and without prescan normalization filtering at 3 T. The time‐course signal‐to‐noise ratio (tSNR) and the magnitude of functional activation (beta‐value, t‐value, percent signal change) were statistically compared between experimental conditions for the contralateral primary motor and visual cortex, contralateral thalamus, and ipsilateral anterior cerebellar hemispheres.

Results:

tSNR was higher overall measuring with the 32‐channel array and with prescan normalization. Without filtering, the 32‐channel array delivered higher functional activation magnitudes for the visual cortex, whereas the 12‐channel array seemed superior in this respect in thalamus and cerebellum. Filtering did not considerably affect the fMRI‐activation magnitude detected from the 12‐channel coil; its application favored the 32‐channel coil at the subcortical and cerebellar locations but disfavored it at the cortical ones.

Conclusion:

The 32‐channel coil detected more fMRI‐activation cortically but less subcortically than the 12‐channel coil; prescan normalization improved activation parameters only at central brain structures. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2011;. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Mechanisms of collagen fibril alignment in tendon injury: From tendon regeneration to artificial tendon
Authors: Torigoe Kojun , Tanaka Hirohito F. , Yonenaga Kazumichi , Ohkochi Hiroki , Miyasaka Muneo , Sato Ryota , Kuzumaki Toru , Yoshida Kazuharu , Yoshida Toshiko
Published: May 2011

The process by which collagen fibrils are aligned following tendon injury remains unknown. Therefore, we analyzed the process of tendon regeneration by transmission electron microscopy, using a film model method. In mice, the Achilles tendon of medial head was transected. On day 3, after only the proximal end of the transected tendon was placed on film and kept in vivo, a translucent substance containing granules, called tendon gel, was secreted. On day 5, the granules assembled in a loose (L) layer, and coalesced tightly in a dense (D) layer, forming an L‐D‐L layered pattern. On day 10, granules showed high electron density in H layers, which developed into D‐H‐D layers on day 13. The distal end was placed on film to face the proximal end. On day 10, the tendon gel showed a D‐H‐D layer pattern. On day 11, mechanical stress from muscular constriction changed the tendon gel to aligned collagen fibrils (6 ± 2 nm in diameter). Thereafter, the diameter of the fibrils increased. Tendon gel harvested on day 5 or day 10 was pulled manually or by hanging weights (about 0.6 MPa). Aligned collagen fibrils (32 ± 7 nm in diameter) were created by traction using tendon gel harvested on day 10. © 2011 Orthopaedic Research Society Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 29:1944–1950, 2011
Standardized pretreatment breast MRI—accuracy and influence on mastectomy decisions
Authors: Barchie Matthew F , Clive Kevin S , Tyler Joshua A , Sutcliffe Joseph B , Kirkpatrick Aaron D , Bell Lisa M , Banks Kevin P , Belenkiy Slava , Saenger Jeff S , Peoples George E
Published: May 2011

Background and Objectives

Routine pretreatment breast magnetic resonance imaging in newly diagnosed cancer patients remains controversial. We assess MRI accuracy and influence on mastectomy decisions after institution of standardized pretreatment MRI.

Methods

A prospectively collected database of 74 consecutive new invasive breast cancer patients with pretreatment breast MRI was reviewed for treatment choice, radiologic, and pathologic results. Thirty‐eight of 72 patients with available surgical records underwent mastectomy. Mastectomy preoperative and operative electronic records were reviewed for treatment decision analysis.

Results

Seventeen of 72 (23.6%) invasive breast cancer patients were likely influenced to undergo mastectomy by new information from MRI. MRI reported that the multifocal/multicentric (MF/MC) rate was 20 of 72 (27.8%) versus 19 of 72 (26.4%) by surgical pathology. MRI sensitivity for MF/MC disease was 89.5% versus 11.8% for mammography. MRI specificity was 84.2%. All three false positives declined recommended preoperative biopsies. MRI MF/MC diagnosis highly correlated with pathology results, P < 0.001.

Conclusions

Increased mastectomy rate from 29 to 52.8% after standardization of pre‐treatment breast MRI for invasive cancer is largely due to MRI findings of increased extent of disease. These MRI findings correlate well with pathologic findings and appear to justify the performance of mastectomies in these patients. J. Surg. Oncol. 2011; 104:741–745. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Elevated preoperative neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio predicts poor survival following resection in late stage gastric cancer
Authors: Jung Mi Ran , Park Young Kyu , Jeong Oh , Seon Jang Won , Ryu Seong Yeob , Kim Dong Yi , Kim Young Jin
Published: May 2011

Background

Elevated neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (N/L ratio) has been shown to be a prognostic indicator in various cancers. We aimed to investigate the prognostic significance of the preoperative N/L ratio in late stage gastric cancer.

Methods

From April 2004 to August 2007, 293 patients who had undergone gastrectomy with curative intent for the AJCC/UICC TNM Stage III or IV gastric cancer were included. N/L ratio was calculated from lymphocyte and neutrophil counts on routine blood tests taken prior to surgery.

Results

The median follow‐up time for surviving patients was 38.2 months (4.2–65.5 months) and median preoperative N/L ratio was 2.06 (range 0.47–19.73). Subjects were dichotomized at the N/L value of 2.0. A multivariate analysis established a significant relationship between the N/L ratio and overall survival (HR = 1.609; 95% confidence interval, CI, 1.144–2.264; P = 0.006). The cutoff value up to 3.0, the value of 75 percentiles, showed a significant prognostic effect on disease‐free survival (HR = 1.654; 95% CI, 1.088–2.515; P = 0.019).

Conclusions

The results suggest that the elevated preoperative N/L ratio predicts poor disease‐free and overall survival following resection for late stage gastric cancer. It may be utilized as a simple, reliable prognostic factor for risk stratification and will provide better treatment allocation. J. Surg. Oncol. 2011; 104:504–510. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Relationships between soldiers' PTSD symptoms and spousal communication during deployment
Authors: Carter Sarah , Loew Benjamin , Allen Elizabeth , Stanley Scott , Rhoades Galena , Markman Howard
Published: May 2011

Social support, including support from spouses, may buffer against posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms. The current study assessed whether the frequency of spousal communication during a recent deployment, a potentially important source of support for soldiers, was related to postdeployment PTSD symptoms. Data came from 193 married male Army soldiers who returned from military deployment within the past year. For communication modalities conceptualized as delayed (i.e., letters, care packages, and e‐mails), greater spousal communication frequency during deployment was associated with lower postdeployment PTSD symptom scores, but only at higher levels of marital satisfaction (p = .009). At lower marital satisfaction, more delayed spousal communication during deployment was associated with more PTSD symptoms (p = .042). For communication modalities conceptualized as interactive (i.e., phone calls, instant messaging, instant messaging with video), the same general direction of effects was seen, but the interaction between communication frequency and marital satisfaction predicting PTSD symptoms did not reach significance.
Polyglycidol Based Amphiphilic Double‐Comb Copolymers and Their Self‐Association in Aqueous Solution
Authors: Ozdemir Firat , Keul Helmut , Mourran Ahmed , Moeller Martin
Published: May 2011

Herein, we report synthesis and self‐association properties of amphiphilic double‐comb polymers with polyglycidol backbones. First, a bifunctional polyglycidol precursor is synthesized via monomer activated anionic polymerization. Next, two efficient and orthogonal polymer analogous reactions are carried out for grafting hydrophilic oligoethylene glycol side chains and hydrophobic linear aliphatic side‐chains. The polymers are analyzed by means of NMR, GPC, and DSC. From the DSC analysis of the bulk samples it is evident that aliphatic side chains segregate from the polar backbone and thus crystallize. Furthermore, in aqueous media the double‐comb polymers spontaneously self‐assemble to form a multilayer structure. The present results pave a way to tailor and design amphiphilic polymers based on glycidols. Major advantages are spontaneous self‐assembly in water and the possibility to form onion polymersomes relevant to encapsulation.

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pH‐Disintegrable Polyelectrolyte Multilayer‐Coated Mesoporous Silica Nanoparticles Exhibiting Triggered Co‐Release of Cisplatin and Model Drug Molecules
Authors: Wan Xuejuan , Zhang Guoying , Liu Shiyong
Published: May 2011

We report on the fabrication of pH‐disintegrable polyelectrolyte multilayer‐coated mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSN) capable of triggered co‐release of cisplatin and model drug molecules. The outer polyelectrolyte multilayer was assembled from permanently cationic polyelectrolyte, poly(allyl amine hydrochloride) (PAH), and negatively charged polyelectrolyte, P(DMA‐co‐TPAMA), consisting of N,N‐dimethylacrylamide (DMA) and 3,4,5,6‐tetrahydrophthalic anhydride‐functionalized N‐(3‐aminopropyl)methacrylamide (TPAMA) monomer units, which exhibits pH‐induced charge conversion characteristics. Thus, the subtle alteration of solution pH from 7.4 to ≈5–6 can lead to the disintegration of outer polyelectrolyte multilayers, accompanied with the co‐release of cisplatin and RhB.

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Graft‐induced dyskinesias in Parkinson's disease: High striatal serotonin/dopamine transporter ratio
Authors: Politis Marios , Oertel Wolfgang H. , Wu Kit , Quinn Niall P. , Pogarell Oliver , Brooks David J. , Bjorklund Anders , Lindvall Olle , Piccini Paola
Published: May 2011

Graft‐induced dyskinesias are a serious complication after neural transplantation in Parkinson's disease. One patient with Parkinson's disease, treated with fetal grafts 14 years ago and deep brain stimulation 6 years ago, showed marked improvement of motor symptoms but continued to suffer from OFF‐medication graft‐induced dyskinesias. The patient received a series of clinical and imaging assessments. Positron emission tomography and single‐photon emission computed tomography 14 years posttransplantation revealed an elevated serotonin/dopamine transporter ratio in the grafted striatum compatible with serotonergic hyperinnervation. Inhibition of serotonin neuron activity by systemic administration of a 5‐HT1A agonist suppressed graft‐induced dyskinesias. Our data provide further evidence that serotonergic neurons mediate graft‐induced dyskinesias in Parkinson's disease. Achieving a normal striatal serotonin/dopamine transporter ratio following transplantation of fetal tissue or stem cells should be necessary to avoid the development of graft‐induced dyskinesias. © 2011 Movement Disorder Society
Olfactory deficits and cardiac 123I‐MIBG in Parkinson's disease related to the LRRK2 R1441G and G2019S mutations
Authors: Ruiz‐Martínez Javier , Gorostidi Ana , Goyenechea Estibaliz , Alzualde Ainhoa , Poza Juan José , Rodríguez Francisco , Bergareche Alberto , Moreno Fermín , López de Munain Adolfo , Martí Massó José F.
Published: May 2011

It has been proposed that olfactory tests and metaiodobenzylguanidine cardiac scintigraphy may help diagnose idiopathic Parkinson's disease in the premotor phase. However, it is not clear what value these tests have in all patients with Parkinson's disease and, particularly, in those who carry mutations in LRRK2. The objective was to analyze olfactory dysfunction and the changes in cardiac I‐metaiodobenzylguanidine uptake in patients with Parkinson's disease carrying the R1441G and G2019S mutations in LRRK2, and in patients with Parkinson's disease with no known mutations. Patients with Parkinson's disease were screened for R1441G and G2019S LRRK2 gene mutations and classified as LRRK2 mutation carriers or noncarriers. A total of 190 patients with Parkinson's disease (44 LRRK2 mutation carriers) were tested for olfactory dysfunction using the Brief Smell Identification Test. Cardiac 123I‐metaiodobenzylguanidine scintigraphy was performed on 90 patients with Parkinson's disease (27 LRRK2 mutation carriers). Thirty‐six percent of patients with LRRK2 mutations have hyposmia, compared to 75% of noncarrier patients with Parkinson's disease (P < .001). Sixty‐six percent of LRRK2 mutation carriers have low early metaiodobenzylguanidine uptake, compared to 86% of noncarriers (P = .048). Similarly, the heart/mediastinum ratio in delayed metaiodobenzylguanidine images appeared to differ between these groups of patients with Parkinson's disease, although these results did not reach statistical significance. The data obtained indicate that olfactory and cardiac impairment is less prevalent when Parkinson's disease is associated with mutations in LRRK2, although the underlying mechanisms for this difference remain unclear. Thus, such screening would be less useful to detect the premotor phase in asymptomatic relatives who carry mutations in LRRK2 than in cases not associated with LRRK2. © 2011 Movement Disorder Society
Accumlation of lipoprostaglandin E1 at the anastomotic region after systemic application
Authors: Okochi Masayuki , Ueda Kazuki , Kajikawa Akiyoshi
Published: May 2011

Lipoprostaglandin E1 (lipo‐PGE1) has been found accumulating in injured vascular regions. This study examined the localization of lipo‐PGE1 in the anastomotic region. The study was divided into three parts. First, we performed anastomosis of the rat femoral artery and vein (n = 17). Lipo‐PGE1 labeled with 1,1'‐dioctadecyl‐1,3,3',3'‐tetramethyl‐indocarbocyanine was infused intravenously. Hematoxylin‐Eosin staining and fluorescence microscopic findings showed that lipo‐PGE1 markedly accumulated at the anastomotic site when compared to the contralateral non anastomotic region. Then, we measured laser Doppler flow (LDF) of a lower leg before and after infusion of lipo‐PGE1 (n = 7) and saline (n = 7). Increase of blood flow was maintained 1 hour after the infusion of lipo‐PGE1 (144% ± 25.0%) when compared to saline infusion. Finally, we performed immunohistochemical and electron microscopic examinations and found that Lipo‐PGE1 was incorporated in vascular smooth muscle cells of the anastomotic region. These findings suggest selective accumulation of the lipo‐PGE1 in the vascular anastomosis site and affect on the blood flow of repaired vessels. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. Microsurgery, 2011.