bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Management of Sinonasal Malignant Neoplasms: Defining the Role of Endoscopy
Authors: Luong Amber , Citardi Martin J. , Batra Pete S.
Published: March 2010

Background

Preliminary reports support the role of endoscopic techniques in the management of selected sinonasal malignancies. The objectives of this review are (1) to assess outcomes for patients undergoing definitive endoscopic tumor extirpation and (2) to elucidate the role of endoscopy in the management of sinonasal malignancies.

Methods

Retrospective review of patients with sinonasal malignancy managed via endoscopic techniques from September 1998 to December 2007 was conducted.

Results

Sixty-one patients were identified (38 men and 23 women) with a mean age of 59 years. The five most common pathologies were squamous cell carcinoma (21), melanoma (10), esthesioneuroblastoma (8), adenocarcinoma (7), and sinonasal undifferentiated carcinoma (3). Sixty-nine endoscopic procedures were performed and categorized according to surgical intent: 57 curative resections (82.6%), 8 palliative resections (11.6%), and 4 tumor mappings (5.8%). Adjuvant chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy was used in 29 of the 50 patients (58%). For those patients undergoing definitive treatment, the disease-free and overall survival rates were 69.2 and 84.6% at mean of 34.5 and 42.7 months, respectively. The local and regional recurrence rates were 17 and 10%, respectively.

Conclusion

The endoscope is a versatile tool for management of sinonasal malignant neoplasms. Although the role was once just limited to biopsy, endoscopic approaches allow for definitive resection for curative intent and palliative resection for patient comfort with acceptable survival. Moreover, endoscopy facilitates three-dimensional tumor mapping and posttreatment surveillance in patients undergoing definitive chemoradiation.
Manuka Honey: Histological Effect on Respiratory Mucosa
Authors: Kilty Shaun J. , AlMutari Dakheelallah , Duval Melanie , Groleau Michelle A. , De Nanassy Joseph , Gomes Marcio M.
Published: March 2010

Background

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is an inflammatory disease in which bacteria are commonly implicated often in the form of a biofilm. Manuka honey has been shown in vitro to be an effective treatment against two common CRS pathogens both in the planktonic and in the biofilm forms. The purpose of this study was to determine if the application of manuka honey to respiratory epithelium would result in histological evidence of epithelial injury.

Methods

Using a rabbit animal model, a nonrandomized controlled trial of four treatment regimes was performed with two rabbits in each group. The left nasal cavity was irrigated with a 1.5-mL manuka honey solution once daily and the right nasal cavity was not treated. Groups 1–3 were treated for 3, 7, and 14 consecutive days, respectively, and killed the morning after the last treatment. Group 4 was treated for 14 consecutive days followed by a 14-day washout period and then killed the following morning. The nasal respiratory mucosa was immediately harvested after death. The mucosa was examined by light microscopy for histological change in comparison with the control side.

Results

Cilia were not measured quantitatively but were equally present on the treated and untreated mucosa. There was no histological evidence of inflammation, epithelial injury, or significant morphological changes.

Conclusion

The application of a manuka honey solution to rabbit nasal respiratory mucosa over different treatment intervals did not show evidence of histological epithelial injury.
Concentrated Topical Epinephrine is Safe in Endoscopic Sinus Surgery
Authors: Orlandi Richard R. , Warrier Smitha , Sato Stephan , Han Joseph K.
Published: March 2010

Background

The safety of topical epinephrine (1:1000 concentration) has recently been called into question. No objective data have been presented examining this issue.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed all cases of endoscopic sinus surgery performed by the senior authors at their respective institutions. Perioperative records were reviewed for use of topical 1:1000 epinephrine and for any intraoperative or postoperative complications related to its use.

Results

During the study periods, 1998 cases of endoscopic sinus surgery were identified where topical 1:1000 epinephrine was used. Two complications were identified (0.1%), one at each institution. One patient suffered coronary artery vasospasm, attributed to the use of topical 1:1000 epinephrine during surgery. The other patient developed transient intraoperative hypertension immediately after inadvertent submucosal injection of concentrated epinephrine. This event was caused by an erroneous switch with the 1% lidocaine/1:100,000 solution. This error occurred early in the institution's experience with concentrated topical epinephrine. After implementation of additional preventative safeguards, no further errors or complications have occurred.

Conclusion

Concentrated epinephrine has the potential for complications when used during endoscopic sinus surgery. Nevertheless, with appropriate safeguards described in this study, its topical use is safe.
Effects of Statins on Regeneration of Olfactory Epithelium
Authors: Kim Hyo Yeol , Dhong Hun-Jong , Min Jin-Young , Jung Young Gi , Chung Seung Kyu
Published: March 2010

Background

This study was performed to investigate whether statins can enhance the recovery of the olfactory epithelium (OE) damaged by 3-methylindole (3MI), an olfactotoxicant, and to compare the effects with those of steroids.

Methods

Randomized placebo-controlled trial was performed. Fifty-four healthy female Sprague–Dawley rats (aged 9–10 weeks and weighing 160–180 g each) were randomly allocated to the statin-treated, steroid-treated, or control groups. Olfactory loss was induced using i.p. injection of 3MI in adult rats. Atorvastatin (10 mg/kg for 4 weeks), prednisolone (1 mg/kg for 2 weeks), or normal saline (1 cc for 4 weeks) was then administered per os with a gastric tube. Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining and immunohistochemical staining were performed to evaluate the change of thickness and the arrangement of the OE, and immunoreactivity to protein gene product (PGP) 9.5 and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA).

Results

The statin-treated group showed the earliest increase of the thickness of the OE (p = 0.002 at 7 days after 3MI injection) and the immunoreactivity to PCNA (p = 0.032 at 7 days after 3MI injection) among the three groups. The immunoreactivity to PGP 9.5 showed significantly better improvement at the 7th and 28th days after 3MI injection compared with the steroid-treated or control groups (p = 0.002 and p < 0.001, respectively).

Conclusion

Statins might enhance the proliferation and neuroregenesis of the OE after 3MI injection.
Nicotine Induces Resistance to Chemotherapy in Nasal Epithelial Cancer
Authors: Shen Tianjie , Le Wei , Yee Allison , Hwang Peter H. , Upadhyay Daya
Published: March 2010

Background

Epidemiological and clinical data implicate that in patients with cancer, continued smoking causes progression of cancer growth and resistance to therapy. The carcinogens possess the ability to block apoptosis, an important mechanism in the development of tumors and resistance to chemotherapy. We previously showed that nicotine enhances growth and proliferation in lung cancer. However, the effects of nicotine, a tobacco carcinogen that inhibits apoptosis, have not been studied before in nasal epithelial carcinoma (NC). In this study, we sought to determine the effects of nicotine on chemotherapy-induced apoptosis in human NC.

Methods

Primary human NC cells were grown per protocol, treated with combination chemotherapy, and the apoptosis was assessed by TUNEL (terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase biotin-dUTP nick end labeling) and DNA fragmentation assays. The regulation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and protein kinase B (AKT) signal transduction pathway was examined by real time quantitative polymerized chain reaction, and immunofluorescent staining assays.

Results

Combination chemotherapy with cisplatin (35 μM) plus etoposide (20 μM) caused a significant increase in NC apoptosis compared with single agent alone, and nicotine, in part, inhibited chemotherapy-induced apoptosis in NC. Furthermore, nicotine induced activation of AKT and MAPK pathways, while inhibition of MAPK using U0126 and AKT by phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase inhibitor, LY294002, in part, blocked the antiapoptotic effects of nicotine against cisplatin and etoposide-induced apoptosis in NC.

Conclusion

Nicotine inhibits chemotherapy-induced apoptosis in NC via the AKT and MAPK-mediated signaling pathways. We speculate that nicotine may play a role in oncogenesis and resistance to cancer therapy in NC.
Aerobic Exercise Alters Analgesia and Neurotrophin-3 Synthesis in an Animal Model of Chronic Widespread Pain
Authors: Sharma Neena K. , Ryals Janelle M. , Gajewski Byron J. , Wright Douglas E.
Published: March 2010

Background

Present literature and clinical practice provide strong support for the use of aerobic exercise in reducing pain and improving function for individuals with chronic musculoskeletal pain syndromes. However, the molecular basis for the positive actions of exercise remains poorly understood. Recent studies suggest that neurotrophin-3 (NT-3) may act in an analgesic fashion in various pain states.

Objective

The purpose of the present study was to examine the effects of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise on pain-like behavior and NT-3 in an animal model of widespread pain.

Design

This was a repeated-measures, observational cross-sectional study.

Methods

Forty female mice were injected with either normal (pH 7.2; n=20) or acidic (pH 4.0; n=20) saline in the gastrocnemius muscle to induce widespread hyperalgesia and exercised for 3 weeks. Cutaneous (von Frey monofilament) and muscular (forceps compression) mechanical sensitivity were assessed. Neurotrophin-3 was quantified in 2 hind-limb skeletal muscles for both messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein levels after exercise training. Data were analyzed with 2-factor analysis of variance for repeated measures (group × time).

Results

Moderate-intensity aerobic exercise reduced cutaneous and deep tissue hyperalgesia induced by acidic saline and stimulated NT-3 synthesis in skeletal muscle. The increase in NT-3 was more pronounced at the protein level compared with mRNA expression. In addition, the increase in NT-3 protein was significant in the gastrocnemius muscle but not in the soleus muscle, suggesting that exercise can preferentially target NT-3 synthesis in specific muscle types.

Limitations

Results are limited to animal models and cannot be generalized to chronic pain syndromes in humans.

Conclusions

This is the first study demonstrating the effect of exercise on deep tissue mechanical hyperalgesia in a rodent model of pain and providing a possible molecular basis for exercise training in reducing muscular pain.
Court-Driven Reform and Equal Educational Opportunity: Centralization, Decentralization, and the Shifting Judicial Role
Authors: Superfine Benjamin Michael
Published: March 2010

Judicial decisions focusing on equal educational opportunity involve significant issues of educational governance and often involve explicit questions about the extent to which authority to make educational decisions should be centralized or decentralized across various institutions and entities. This review aims at clarifying scholars’ understanding of court-driven reform of educational governance to leverage equal educational opportunities across the major fields of school desegregation, school finance reform, and school choice. Issues of centralization and decentralization have particularly emerged in courts’ approaches to these fields with respect to both the judicial process and the substance of the policies themselves. An examination of these issues reveals a movement toward the decentralization of authority away from the courts that, at times, has reflected a growing judicial awareness of the courts’ strengths and weaknesses. Based on this examination, a more effective role for the courts in reforms aimed at promoting equal educational opportunity is considered.
Cystatin C and modification of diet in renal disease (MDRD) estimated glomerular filtration rate differ during normal pregnancy
Authors: LARSSON ANDERS , PALM MARIA , HANSSON LARS‐OLOF , AXELSSON OVE
Published: March 2010

Objective. To calculate normal values for estimation of the glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) for pregnant females. eGFR is used to monitor patients with suspected kidney disease and to optimize the dosage of drugs that are eliminated by the kidneys. Plasma creatinine and cystatin C are the two most widely used GFR markers. Both markers are recommended to be automatically reported as estimated GFR. Design. Retrospective study. Setting. Tertiary university hospital. Population. We have studied creatinine (eGFRMDRD) (MDRD, modified diet in renal disease) and cystatin C (eGFRcystc) estimated GFR during 52 normal pregnancies from pregnancy week 10 to delivery and postpartum. Methods. Each woman was sampled repeatedly and the samples were grouped according to gestational age into the following periods: week 7–16; week 18–24; week 24–28; week 28–31; week 31–34; week 34–38; ‐2–0 weeks prior to delivery and postpartum (> 6 weeks after delivery). Main outcome measures. The 2.5 and 97.5 percentiles for these markers were calculated according to the recommendations of the International Federation of Clinical Chemistry on the statistical treatment of reference values. Results. In healthy pregnant females eGFRcystc was higher in the first two trimesters and lower prior to delivery in comparison with eGFRMDRD. eGFRcystc and eGFRMDRD give different results. No significant correlations between the two estimates were found in any of the time groups. Conclusions. It is important to distinguish between the two GFR estimates and use separate reference intervals for pregnant females.
Biomechanical Stability of Intramedullary Technique for Fixation of Joint Depressed Calcaneus Fracture
Authors: Nelson Joshua D. , McIff Terence E. , Moodie Patrick G. , Iverson Jamey L. , Horton Greg A.
Published: March 2010

Background: Internal fixation of the os calcis is often complicated by prolonged soft tissue management and posterior facet disruption. An ideal calcaneal construct would include minimal hardware prominence, sturdy posterior facet fixation and nominal soft tissue disruption. The purpose of this study was to develop such a construct and provide a biomechanical analysis comparing our technique to a standard internal fixation technique. Methods and Materials: Twenty fresh-frozen cadaver calcanei were used to create a reproducible Sanders type-IIB calcaneal fracture pattern. One calcaneus of each pair was randomly selected to be fixed using our compressive headless screw technique. The contralateral matched calcaneus was fixed with a nonlocking calcaneal plate in a traditional fashion. Each calcaneus was cyclically loaded at a frequency of 1 Hz for 4000 cycles using an increasing force from 250 N to 1000 N. An Optotrak motion capturing system was used to detect relative motion of the three fracture fragments at eight different points along the fracture lines. Horizontal separation and vertical displacement at the fracture lines was recorded, as well as relative rotation at the primary fracture line. Results: When the data were averaged, there was more horizontal displacement at the primary fracture line of the plate and screw construct compared to the headless screw construct. The headless screw construct also had less vertical displacement at the primary fracture line at every load. On average those fractures fixed with the headless screw technique had less rotation than those fixed with the side plate technique. Conclusion: A new headless screw technique for calcaneus fracture fixation was shown to provide stability as good as, or better than, a standard side plating technique under the axial loading conditions of our model. Although further testing is needed, the stability of the proposed technique is similar to that typically provided by intramedullary fixation. Clinical Relevance: This fixation technique provides a biomechanically stable construct with the potential for a minimally invasive approach and improved post-operative soft tissue healing.
Lateral Talar Dome Access Utilizing Temporary Invasive Distraction
Authors: Rush Jeremy K. , Kirk Kevin , Kirby Jess , Hsu Joseph
Published: March 2010

Background: Autogenous osteochondral grafting is an operative option for the treatment of osteochondral lesions of the talus (OLT). Graft implantation often requires an osteotomy to gain perpendicular access to the recipient site. The purpose of this study was to determine the relative contributions of soft tissue releases, osteotomies, and invasive distraction on perpendicular access to the lateral talar dome. We hypothesized that temporary invasive distraction (TID) would provide greater perpendicular access than anterolateral arthrotomy alone and similar access compared to an anterolateral tibial osteotomy. Materials and Methods: Eight fresh frozen cadaveric limb specimens were utilized. An anterolateral arthrotomy was performed and an osteochondral plug was harvested as far posterior as allowed. An additional two Kirschner wires were placed to mark the borders of the area of access. This process was then repeated utilizing: 1) an external fixator for distraction alone, 2) an anterolateral tibial osteotomy alone (with distraction released), and 3) an anterolateral tibial osteotomy (with distraction reapplied). The area accessible as well as the anterior to posterior (AP) access was measured and recorded for each approach. Results: The approach utilizing TID provided greater access than arthrotomy with regard to AP access ( p = 0.0007) as well as area ( p = 0.003). The approach utilizing TID alone was equivalent to the anterolateral tibial osteotomy with regard to AP access as well as area. TID combined with osteotomy provided greater access than the TID or osteotomy approaches alone with regard to AP access ( p = 0.01 and p = 0.02, respectively) and greater access than the external fixator alone with regard to area ( p = 0.02). Conclusion: Temporary distraction utilizing external fixation provides greater perpendicular access than anterolateral arthrotomy and access equivalent to anterolateral osteotomy alone. Clinical Relevance: Utilizing TID may obviate the morbidity and possible complications associated with osteotomy and may prove to be a valuable tool in the treatment of osteochondral lesions of the talus.
Erythromelalgia: A Novel Postoperative Complication
Authors: Beals Timothy C. , Jensen Nathan C. Swallow; Allison
Published: March 2010

Level of Evidence: V, Expert Opinion
A Phase II study of anti–epidermal growth factor receptor radioimmunotherapy in the treatment of glioblastoma multiforme
Authors: Li Linna , Quang Tony S. , Gracely Ed J. , Kim Ji H. , Emrich Jacqueline G. , Yaeger Theodore E. , Jenrette Joseph M. , Cohen Steven C. , Black Perry , Brady Luther W.
Published: March 2010

Object

This single-institution Phase II study tests the efficacy of adjuvant radioimmunotherapy with 125I-labeled anti–epidermal growth factor receptor 425 murine monoclonal antibody (125I-mAb 425) in patients with newly diagnosed glioblastoma multiforme (GBM).

Methods

A total of 192 patients with GBM were treated with 125I-mAb 425 over a course of 3 weekly intravenous injections of 1.8 GBq following surgery and radiation therapy. The primary end point was overall survival, and the secondary end point was toxicity. Additional subgroup analyses were performed comparing treatment with 125I-mAb 425 (RIT, 132 patients), 125I-mAb 425 and temozolomide (TMZ+RIT, 60 patients), and a historical control group (CTL, 81 patients).

Results

The median age was 53 years (range 19–78 years), and the median Karnofsky Performance Scale score was 80 (range 60–100). The percentage of patients who underwent debulking surgery was 77.6% and that of those receiving temozolomide was 31.3%. The overall median survival was 15.7 months (95% CI 13.6–17.8 months). The 1- and 2-year survivals were 62.5 and 25.5%, respectively. For subgroups RIT and TMZ+RIT, the median survivals were 14.5 and 20.2 months, respectively. No Grade 3 or 4 toxicity was seen with the administration of 125I-mAb 425. The CTL patients lacked Karnofsky Performance Scale scores, had poorer survival, were older, and were less likely to receive radiation therapy. On multivariate analysis, the hazard ratios for RIT versus CTL, TMZ+RIT versus CTL, and TMZ+RIT versus RIT were 0.49 (p < 0.001), 0.30 (p < 0.001), and 0.62 (p = 0.008), respectively.

Conclusions

In this large Phase II study of 192 patients with GBM treated with anti–epidermal growth factor receptor 125I-mAb 425 radioimmunotherapy, survival was 15.7 months, and treatment was safe and well tolerated.
Automated Dermoscopy Image Analysis of Pigmented Skin Lesions
Authors: Baldi Alfonso , Quartulli Marco , Murace Raffaele , Dragonetti Emanuele , Manganaro Mario , Guerra Oscar , Bizzi Stefano
Published: March 2010

Dermoscopy (dermatoscopy, epiluminescence microscopy) is a non-invasive diagnostic technique for the in vivo observation of pigmented skin lesions (PSLs), allowing a better visualization of surface and subsurface structures (from the epidermis to the papillary dermis). This diagnostic tool permits the recognition of morphologic structures not visible by the naked eye, thus opening a new dimension in the analysis of the clinical morphologic features of PSLs. In order to reduce the learning-curve of non-expert clinicians and to mitigate problems inherent in the reliability and reproducibility of the diagnostic criteria used in pattern analysis, several indicative methods based on diagnostic algorithms have been introduced in the last few years. Recently, numerous systems designed to provide computer-aided analysis of digital images obtained by dermoscopy have been reported in the literature. The goal of this article is to review these systems, focusing on the most recent approaches based on content-based image retrieval systems (CBIR).
Spatial Modeling in Environmental and Public Health Research
Authors: Jerrett Michael , Gale Sara , Kontgis Caitlin
Published: March 2010

This paper has two aims: (1) to summarize various geographic information science methods; and (2) to provide a review of studies that have employed such methods. Though not meant to be a comprehensive review, this paper explains when certain methods are useful in epidemiological studies and also serves as an overview of the growing field of spatial epidemiology.
Recent Advances in Noble Metal Nanocatalysts for Suzuki and Heck Cross-Coupling Reactions
Authors: Narayanan Radha
Published: March 2010

Since metal nanoparticles have a high surface-to-volume ratio and very active surface atoms, they are very attractive catalysts for a wide variety of organic and inorganic reactions, compared to bulk catalysts. Metal nanoparticles suspended in colloidal solutions and those adsorbed onto bulk supports have been used as catalysts for a wide variety of carbon-carbon bond formation reactions such as the Suzuki and Heck cross-coupling reactions. This review article highlights some of the latest advances in the application of noble metal nanoparticles as catalysts for these two industrially important classes of cross-coupling reactions. We will discuss several important advances in using metal nanocatalysts in Suzuki and Heck cross-coupling reactions such as investigations on the nanoparticle shape dependence on the catalytic activity, novel types of supported metal nanoparticles as nanocatalysts, and the use of bi-metallic, tri-metallic and multi-metallic nanoparticles as catalysts for the Suzuki and Heck cross-coupling reactions.
Antioxidant Activity of Polysaccharide-enriched Fractions Extracted from Pulp Tissue of Litchi Chinensis Sonn.
Authors: Kong Fanli , Zhang Mingwei , Liao Sentai , Yu Shujuan , Chi Jianwei , Wei Zhencheng
Published: March 2010

Natural antioxidants such as polysaccharides with strong antioxidant activities are used to protect against oxidative damage, yet little is known so far about the antioxidant effects of litchi fruit polysaccharides. In the present study, four different polysaccharide-enriched fractions were isolated from litchi pulp tissue and partially purified by a stepwise method of ethyl alcohol (EtOH) precipitation. Their chemical and physical characteristics were determined by chemical methods, gas chromatography and IR spectrophotometry. Antioxidant activities of these fractions were investigated using various in vitro assay systems. These four polysaccharide-enriched fractions exhibited a dose-dependent free radical scavenging activity as shown by their DPPH radical, superoxide anion and hydroxyl radical inhibition, chelating ability and reducing power. Among the different fractions, LFP-III showed the strongest scavenging activity against DPPH radical, superoxide and hydroxyl radicals and chelating ability. These findings suggest litchi polysaccharides from pulp tissue have potential as functional foods with enhanced antioxidant activity.
Nonclassical Vitamin D Actions
Authors: Zittermann Armin , Gummert Jan F.
Published: March 2010

It is becoming increasingly clear that vitamin D has a broad range of actions in the human body. Besides its well-known effects on calcium/phosphate homeostasis, vitamin D influences muscle function, cardiovascular homeostasis, nervous function, and the immune response. Vitamin D deficiency/insufficiency has been associated with muscle weakness and a high incidence of various chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, multiple sclerosis, and type 1 and 2 diabetes. Most importantly, low vitamin D status has been found to be an independent predictor of all-cause mortality. Several recent randomized controlled trials support the assumption that vitamin D can improve muscle strength, glucose homeostasis, and cardiovascular risk markers. In addition, vitamin D may reduce cancer incidence and elevated blood pressure. Since the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency/insufficiency is high throughout the world, there is a need to improve vitamin D status in the general adult population. However, the currently recommended daily vitamin D intake of 5–15 µg is too low to achieve an adequate vitamin D status in individuals with only modest skin synthesis. Thus, there is a need to recommend a vitamin D intake that is effective for achieving adequate circulating 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentrations (>75 nmol/L).
Hybrid Lattice Particle Modelling Approach for Polymeric Materials Subject to High Strain Rate Loads
Authors: Wang Ge , Cheng Alexander H.-D. , Ostoja-Starzewski Martin , Al-Ostaz Ahmed , Radziszewski Peter
Published: March 2010

Hybrid Lattice Particle modelling (HLPM) is an innovative particular dynamics approach that is established based on a combination of the particle modelling (PM) technique together with the conventional lattice modelling (LM) theory. It is developed for the purpose of simulating the dynamic fragmentation of solids under high strain rate loadings at macroscales with a varying Poisson's ratio. HLPM is conceptually illustrated by fully dynamic particles (or “quasi-particles”) placed at the nodes of a lattice network without explicitly considering their geometric size. The interaction potentials among the particles can employ either linear (quadratic) or nonlinear (Leonard-Jones or strain rate dependent polynomial) type as the axial/angular linkage. The defined spring constants are then mapped into lattice system, which are in turn matched with the material’s continuum-level elastic moduli, strength, Poisson's ratio and mass density. As an accurate dynamic fracture solver of materials, HLPM has its unique advantages over the other numerical techniques which are mainly characterized as easy preparation of inputs, high computation efficiency, ability of post-fracture simulation and a multiscale model, etc., This paper is to review the successful HLPM studies of dynamic fragmentation of polymeric materials with good accuracy. Polymeric materials, including nylon 6-6, vinyl ester and epoxy, are accounted for under the loading conditions of tension, indentation and punctuation. In addition, HLPM of wave propagation and wave induced fracture study is also reviewed.
A Multi-Point Sensor Based on Optical Fiber for the Measurement of Electrolyte Density in Lead-Acid Batteries
Authors: Cao-Paz Ana M. , Marcos-Acevedo Jorge , Del Río-Vázquez Alfredo , Martínez-Peñalver Carlos , Lago-Ferreiro Alfonso , Nogueiras-Meléndez Andrés A. , Doval-Gandoy Jesús
Published: March 2010

This article describes a multi-point optical fiber-based sensor for the measurement of electrolyte density in lead-acid batteries. It is known that the battery charging process creates stratification, due to the different densities of sulphuric acid and water. In order to study this process, density measurements should be obtained at different depths. The sensor we describe in this paper, unlike traditional sensors, consists of several measurement points, allowing density measurements at different depths inside the battery. The obtained set of measurements helps in determining the charge (SoC) and state of health (SoH) of the battery.
Oxidant Sensing by Protein Kinases A and G Enables Integration of Cell Redox State with Phosphoregulation
Authors: Burgoyne Joseph R. , Eaton Philip
Published: March 2010

The control of vascular smooth muscle contractility enables regulation of blood pressure, which is paramount in physiological adaptation to environmental challenges. Maintenance of stable blood pressure is crucial for health as deregulation (caused by high or low blood pressure) leads to disease progression. Vasotone is principally controlled by the cyclic nucleotide dependent protein kinases A and G, which regulate intracellular calcium and contractile protein calcium sensitivity. The classical pathways for activation of these two kinases are well established and involve the formation and activation by specific cyclic nucleotide second messengers. Recently we reported that both PKA and PKG can be regulated independently of their respective cyclic nucleotides via a mechanism whereby the kinases sense cellular oxidant production using redox active thiols. This novel redox regulation of these kinases is potentially of physiological importance, and may synergise with the classical regulatory mechanisms.
Supply Chain Management and Sustainability: Procrastinating Integration in Mainstream Research
Authors: De Brito Marisa P. , Van der Laan Erwin A.
Published: March 2010

Research has pointed out opportunities and research agendas to integrate sustainability issues with supply chain and operations management. However, we find that it is still not mainstream practice to systematically take a sustainability approach in tackling supply chain and operations management issues. In this paper, we make use of behavioral theory to explain the current lack of integration. We conclude through abductive reasoning that the reasons for procrastinating integration of sustainability in supply chain and operations management research are the conflicting nature of the task and the inherent context, which is the focus on operations rather than environmental or social issues.
Diastereoselective Desymmetrization of Symmetric Dienes and its Synthetic Application
Authors: Nakahara Kenji , Fujioka Hiromichi
Published: March 2010

The desymmetrization of symmetric compounds is a useful approach to obtain chiral building blocks. Readily available precursors with a prochiral unit could be converted into complex molecules with multiple stereogenic centers in a single step. In this review, recent advances in the desymmetrization of symmetric dienes in the diastereotopic group differentiating reaction and its synthetic application are presented.
Foveoschisis Without High Myopia
Authors: Castro Leonardo C. , Duker Jay S.
Published: March 2010

Two patients presented complaints of visual acuity worsening in one eye. During examination they showed optical coherence tomography (OCT) and clinical findings indistingishable from myopic foveoschisis, although both had minimal refractive errors. One of the patients was followed without surgery until the disease progressed and the visual acuity decreased. The second patient presented with lamellar macular hole associated with the foveoschisis. Both patients underwent pars plana vitrectomy with pre-retinal membranes peeling and intra-vitreal gas infusion and both developed full-thickness macular hole after surgery. The second patient underwent a second surgery with peeling of the internal limiting membrane (ILM) and with successful macular hole closure. OCT was performed at the initial and follow-up visits. In conclusion, foveoschisis may develop in eyes without high myopia. The causative factors, OCT findings and surgical outcomes are very similar to myopic foveoschisis.
Early Detection of Tamoxifen-induced Maculopathy in Patients With Low Cumulative Doses of Tamoxifen
Authors: Chung Hyewon , Kim Dongyoon , Ahn Sei-Hyun , Kim June-Gone , Lee Joo Yong , Lim Jong Yoon , Yoon Young Hee
Published: March 2010

Pathogenic macula determined by techniques including 3-dimensional optical coherence tomography OCT (3D-OCT), in six breast cancer patients who had received low cumulative doses (4.2 to 9.6 g) of tamoxifen is described. Fluorescein angiography showed varying amounts of foveolar hyperfluorescence. 3-dimensional OCT revealed one or several foveal cystoid spaces in 10 of 12 eyes with or without focal disruption of the photoreceptor transition zones. Time-domain OCT did not indicate cystoid spaces in two of the eyes that clearly showed intraretinal cysts on 3D-OCT. Tiny disruptions of photoreceptor transition zones were also more clearly visible on 3D-OCT. Previous studies have clearly shown retinopathy following long-term or high dosages of tamoxifen. Our results indicate that patients with low cumulative doses of tamoxifen can also suffer visual symptom-related foveal cystoid spaces and/or macular thinning. 3D-OCT is very effective in detecting early subtle changes in tamoxifen-induced maculopathy that can occur in asymptomatic patients.
Corneal Melt While Using Topical Bevacizumab Eye Drops
Authors: Galor Anat , Yoo Sonia H.
Published: March 2010

A 75-year-old man presented with an idiopathic central corneal perforation and was treated with cyanoacrylate glue and a bandage contact lens. The stromal bed healed but the patient was left with 360° of corneal neovascularization. Bevacizumab eye drops (25 mg/mL) were prescribed for 1 month which caused marked regression of the blood vessels. A penetrating keratoplasty was performed and the patient continued to use the bevacizumab eye drops for 6 weeks after surgery. The patient noted decreased visual acuity 5 weeks after surgery and was found to have a melt in the stroma of the donor graft necessitating repeating therapeutic penetrating keratoplasty and Gunderson flap. This case highlights that whereas topical bevacizumab may aid in regression of acute corneal neovascularization, caution should be employed with its use in patients with a history of corneal melt.
Bilateral Microphthalmia with Optic Nerve Hypoplasia and Achiasmia
Authors: Giancipoli G. , Guerriero S. , Leozappa M. , Carella Aristide , Epifani E. , Di Cuonzo F. , Lasalandra C.
Published: March 2010

A 15-year-old boy underwent neurological and ophthalmological evaluation. At birth, a severe bilateral microphthalmia, micropenis, and scrotal hypoplasia were diagnosed. Ophthalmologic examination showed right anophthalmia and severe left microphthalmia. Radiological examination showed normal orbital and skull structures. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), revealed the absence of the right eye, left microphthalmia, optic nerve hypoplasia, aplasia of the optic chiasm, and tracts. Audiometric examination and electroencephalogram were normal. There was no mental retardation. The chromosomal examination was normal. The patient is examination was also negative for any type of known risk factors.
Scanning Electron Microscopic and Energy Dispersive Spectroscopic Findings of a Removed Iris-Claw Lens
Authors: Gungel Hulya , Baylancicek Deniz Oygar
Published: March 2010

A case of a patient whose phakic iris-claw lens fell into the anterior chamber after 15 years of implantation are reported. The surface of the lens was analyzed with scanning electron microscopy and with energy dispersive spectroscopy. Granular aggregates on the anterior surface and denser aggregates branching into wide areas on the posterior surface of the optic, irregularities on interface surfaces of the haptics due to possible manufacturing defects, and impressions due to devices used for implantation were detected, as were calcium (Ca) deposits in the aggregates. Considering the facilitated damage and atrophy of the iris by the irregularities of the interface surface of the haptics and also the dense Ca deposits on the surfaces which affect biocompatibility, it would be better to exchange the old lens, which has fallen into the anterior chamber, for a new generation one instead of reimplanting the older lens that has been in position for many years.
Idiopathic Hypertrophic Pachymeningitis Presenting with Uveitic Glaucoma
Authors: Hong Samin , Kim Chan Yun , Kim Seung Kab , Seong Gong Je
Published: March 2010

A 73-year-old man presented with uveitic glaucoma associated with headache. Because there were no active inflammatory signs, synechiolysis and cataract extraction were performed. Even after lowering intraocular pressure, he repeatedly complained of headache, but no neuroimaging was performed. Acute bilateral visual loss was occurred 3 months after cataract surgery. Ophthalmologic examination revealed bilateral optic neuritis and a Gd-DPTA-enhanced cranial magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed thickened enhancement of the dura and optic nerve sheath. A final clinical diagnosis of idiopathic hypertrophic pachymeningitis associated with optic neuritis was made.
Neonatal Candidemia Exacerbated the Progression of Retinopathy of Prematurity in an Extremely-Low-Birth-Weight Infant with Persistent Tunica Vasculosa Lentis
Authors: Hsieh Ching-ju , Lin Keh-chung , Liu Jung-sen
Published: March 2010

Eyes with threshold retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) often show dilation of the existing tunica vasculosa lentis (TVL), which is a prognostic factor in ROP screening and treatment, but can be frequently misdiagnosed as true iris neovascularization (NV). Besides, candidemia in preterm infants can aggravate the severity of ROP, possibly to the threshold stage requiring laser treatment. A case of prolonged candidemia without ophthalmic infection in an extremely-low-birth-weight (ELBW) (birth weight: 800 g), pre-term (gestation: 26 weeks) infant with persistent TVL and severe ROP are reported. The threshold ROP was successfully treated with argon laser therapy. Candidemia without eye infection in this case was associated with early use of a systemic antifungal drug. To our knowledge, no similar cases have been reported in the literature.
Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty in Pseudophakic Glaucoma
Authors: Nagar Madhu , Shah Nimish , Kapoor Bharat
Published: March 2010

Glaucoma following cataract operation is more common when complications occur during surgery. Patients who had posterior capsule rupture during cataract surgery usually have a prolonged intraoperative time and manipulation. In such cases, secondary glaucoma may develop due to chronic trabecular damage and prolong topical steroid use. It is usually treated with topical anti-glaucoma medication or surgery. Recently selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT) has emerged as a relatively new, safe and effective treatment modality. Three cases of pseudophakic secondary glaucoma following complicated cataract surgery treated successfully with 180° SLT treatment are presented. Case 1 responded well to SLT during 5-year available follow-up, along with reduction in topical anti-glaucoma medication. In Cases 2 and 3, SLT was used as adjunctive to topical anti-glaucoma medication and target intra ocular pressure (IOP) was maintained for 4 and 2 years of available follow-up, respectively. To our best knowledge this is the first case series where SLT has been shown effective in cases of pseudophakic secondary glaucoma.
Polyunsaturated Fatty Acid Composition of Surgically Removed Hard Exudates in Diabetic Macular Edema
Authors: Byeon Suk Ho , Chung Hae-Yun , Kwon Oh W.
Published: March 2010

Three eyes of 2 patients with diabetic macular edema underwent a vitrectomy to remove subfoveal hard exudates. Fatty acid compositions of hard exudates and plasma phospholipids (PL) as an objective estimation of dietary intake were analyzed. Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) were relatively consistent in hard exudates and PL, but were less abundant in hard exudates. The hard exudates had lower levels of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA, C20:5 ω3) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, C22:6 ω3), which oxidized more readily than other PUFA. Dietary PUFA may be associated with the composition of retinal hard exudates.
Pillows and Tape
Authors: Mand Parandeep , Miller Kevin M.
Published: March 2010

A 76-year-old man with a severe neck deformity resulting in a facedown posture presented with a visually significant cataract in his right eye. The patient had been scheduled for cataract surgery elsewhere, but the surgery was cancelled in the operating room when he could not be positioned beneath the operating microscope. The patient's surgery was safely and effectively performed by placing 25 to 30 pillows under his buttocks and legs and one pillow and a towel beneath his head and neck. The patient and pillows were taped to the operating table so that they would not move.
Localized Cystic Enlargement of the Distal Optic Nerve Sheath After Decompression Surgery
Authors: Ozdamar Yasemin , Acaroglu Golge , Gokcek Ozcan
Published: March 2010

Cystic formation of the optic meninges may occur after optic nerve sheath decompression surgery for the management of pseudotumor cerebri. A case with a cyst-like structure of the distal optic nerve sheath at the operation site in the late surgical period after nerve sheath decompression surgery is reported.
Extended Endotamponade with Perfluoro-
n
-Octane in Pediatric Retinal Detachment
Authors: Sisk Robert A. , Berrocal Audina M. , Murray Timothy G. , Mavrofrides Elias C.
Published: March 2010

The use of perfluoro-
n
-octane (PFnO) for extended endotamponade in an infant with X-linked retinoschisis and complex tractional retinal detachments associated with proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR) was reported. The patient had undergone multiple vitrectomy surgeries with silicone oil tamponade. After extensive retinectomy, slippage of the retina produced folds that were flattened under extended PFnO tamponade. The retinas of both eyes remained anatomically reattached 11 months after exchange of PFnO for silicone oil.
LASIK Complication Due to Laser Firing Failure and Its Management
Authors: Büyükyildiz H. Zeki , Gulkilik Gokhan
Published: March 2010

A case of an intraoperative Laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) complication due to excimer laser firing failure was presented. After cutting the corneal flap, excimer laser treatment was initiated. However, at 34% completion the laser (Technolas
®
217z Bausch & Lomb Rochester, NY) stopped firing for no apparent reason. The flap was repositioned over the cornea and the patient was sent to the waiting room. The laser technician was called and he resolved the problem within 20 mins. The same treatment profile was loaded into the laser instrument and 34% of the excimer laser treatment was applied to a piece of paper. Then, the patient was returned to the operating theater and the flap was reopened with a cannula. The remaining (66%) excimer laser treatment was applied in the same session. On the following day the cornea was clear and the uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA) was 20/20. The UCVA increased to 20/16 in the first week and remained at this level at the 6-month follow-up.
Spontaneous Progression of a Long-Standing Lamellar Macular Hole into a Full-Thickness Macular Hole
Authors: Castro Leonardo C. , Duker Jay S.
Published: March 2010

One patient with past ocular history of full thickness macular hole surgically closed in the right eye was followed with diagnostic of lamellar macular hole in the left eye since 2000. After uncomplicated cataract surgery in the left eye in March 2008, the lamellar hole spontaneously progressed to full thickness macular hole. The patient underwent pars plana vitrectomy, membrane peel and gas bubble injection, with successful closure of the macular hole and improvement in the visual acuity. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) scans through the macula were performed at the initial and follow-up visits. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first description of a long-standing stable lamellar macular hole progressing into a full thickness macular hole. The causative factors for this progression remain unclear.
Chronic Retinal Detachment Associated with Central Retinal Artery Occlusion
Authors: Kim Stephen J. , Bergstrom Chris , Martin Daniel F.
Published: March 2010

An unusual case of central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO) occurring in the setting of a chronic retinal detachment was reported. A 47-year old woman with a history of slowly declining peripheral vision in her left eye presented with acute painless hand motion vision. She had an extensive chronic retinal detachment in the left eye with multiple demarcation lines and marked whitening of the fovea. Her right eye was normal. A CRAO was confirmed with fluorescein angiography and optical coherence tomography testing. An exhaustive work-up was negative and there was no history of antecedent trauma.
Descemet's Membrane Detachment Caused by the Improper Injection of Sodium Hyaluronate
Authors: Mostafavi David , Zhang Guojin , Mendelsohn Richard , Chu David S.
Published: March 2010

A case of a Descemet's membrane detachment (DMD) caused by the inadvertent intracorneal injection of sodium hyaluronate was presented. This was concluded after chemical analysis of a viscous substance found in a patient's cornea showed to be a breakdown product of sodium hyaluronate. Surgical correction of the detachment included removing the viscous substance and tamponading the detachment with an air bubble. Although other gases such as sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) provide longer means of tamponade, they have increased postoperative risks like glaucoma associated with their use. Air can provide an effective means of tamponade with minimal postoperative risks.
A Patient with Bilateral Cataracta Membranacea
Authors: Pong Jeffrey Chiu Fai , Lai Jimmy
Published: March 2010

A 56-years-old man with good medical health presented with bilateral blurring of vision over 10 years. Slitlamp examination revealed a bilateral cataracta membranacea mainly on the periphery, but involving his visual axes. Cataract extraction and intraocular lens implantation were performed on both eyes. Anterior capsules were not intact in both eyes preoperatively. Anterior vitrectomy was performed in the left eye in view of posterior capsule rupture intraoperatively. Intraocular lens were inserted in sulcus in the left eye and in the bag in the right eye. Postoperatively, his visual acuity improved in both eyes but only moderately. The indication, timing of surgery and the surgical techniques will be discussed.