bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of the Concentric Sphere Family Environment Model and Companion Tools for Culturally Congruent Family Assessment
Authors: Hohashi Naohiro , Honda Junko
Published: September 2011

The article presents development of a nursing model for holistically understanding the family environment that acts on family well-being as well as of tools based on this model to assess family well-being. These were constructed by using qualitative, quantitative, and literary approaches, such as the Delphi technique, a literature review, semistructured interviews with families, and ethnographic studies in Japan, Hong Kong, and the United States. In the “Concentric Sphere Family Environment Model,” a three-dimensional logical space is formed by the three assessment axes of relationships (structural distance, functional distance, and temporal distance) and five systems (supra system, macro system, micro system, family internal environment system, and chrono system) located therein. The “Family Environment Assessment Index” comprises 37 items for assessing the family well-being, and for each of their specifications useful sample questions are provided to conduct the culturally congruent family assessment.
Epinions Advisors as Technical Editors
Authors: Mackiewicz Jo
Published: September 2011

This study examines how, in the realm of social media, Epinions Advisors voluntarily perform a role similar to that of a technical editor. Specifically, the study examines Advisors' use of politeness strategies at various levels of edit in order to motivate product reviewers to improve their work. The study categorizes Advisors' comments about 60 product reviews according to levels of edit in order to determine how Advisors address editing as they attempt to fulfill the concerns of technical editors: advocating for readers and mentoring writers. Updated reviews and Advisor–reviewer discussions suggest that Advisors motivated reviewers to edit.
Chloritization in Proterozoic granite from the Äspö Laboratory, southeastern Sweden: record of hydrothermal alterations and implications for nuclear waste storage
Authors: Morad S. , Sirat M. , El-Ghali M. A. K. , Mansurbeg H.
Published: September 2011

Hydrothermal alteration of Proterozoic granitic rocks in the Äspö underground laboratory, southestern Sweden, resulted in the formation of chlorite with large variations in textural and chemical characteristics, which reflect differences in formation temperatures, fluid composition, and reaction mechanisms. The mineral assemblage associated with chlorite, including Ca-Al silicates (prehnite, pumpellyite, epidote, and titanite), Fe-oxides, calcite, albite and K-feldspar, suggests that chloritization occurred at temperatures of between 200–350°C during various hydrothermal events primarily linked to magmatism and rock deformation. Petrographic and electron microprobe analyses revealed that chlorite replaced biotite, amphibole and magnetite, and hydrothermal chlorite phases filled fractures and vugs in the granitic rocks. While fracture-filling chlorite reduces fracture permeability, chloritization reactions in the host granite resulted in the formation of new localized microporosity that should thus be taken into consideration when evaluating the safety of the granitic basement rocks as a repository for nuclear waste. It is also important to take into account that similar alteration reactions may occur at the site of stored nuclear waste where temperatures in excess of 100°C might be encountered.
NUP98 gene fusions and hematopoietic malignancies: common themes and new biologic insights
Authors: Gough Sheryl M. , Slape Christopher I. , Aplan Peter D.
Published: September 2011

Structural chromosomal rearrangements of the Nucleoporin 98 gene (NUP98), primarily balanced translocations and inversions, are associated with a wide array of hematopoietic malignancies. NUP98 is known to be fused to at least 28 different partner genes in patients with hematopoietic malignancies, including acute myeloid leukemia, chronic myeloid leukemia in blast crisis, myelodysplastic syndrome, acute lymphoblastic leukemia, and bilineage/biphenotypic leukemia. NUP98 gene fusions typically encode a fusion protein that retains the amino terminus of NUP98; in this context, it is important to note that several recent studies have demonstrated that the amino-terminal portion of NUP98 exhibits transcription activation potential. Approximately half of the NUP98 fusion partners encode homeodomain proteins, and at least 5 NUP98 fusions involve known histone-modifying genes. Several of the NUP98 fusions, including NUP98-homeobox (HOX)A9, NUP98-HOXD13, and NUP98-JARID1A, have been used to generate animal models of both lymphoid and myeloid malignancy; these models typically up-regulate HOXA cluster genes, including HOXA5, HOXA7, HOXA9, and HOXA10. In addition, several of the NUP98 fusion proteins have been shown to inhibit differentiation of hematopoietic precursors and to increase self-renewal of hematopoietic stem or progenitor cells, providing a potential mechanism for malignant transformation.
Transglutaminase 2 as an independent prognostic marker for survival of patients with non-adenocarcinoma subtype of non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Choi Chang-Min , Jang Se-Jin , Park Seong-Yeol , Choi Yong-Bock , Jeong Jae-Heon , Kim Dae-Seok , Kim Hyun-Kyoung , Park Kang-Seo , Nam Byung-Ho , Kim Hyeong-Ryul ,   Korean Thoracic Oncology Research Group (KTORG), Kim Soo-Youl , Hong Kyeong-Man
Published: September 2011

Background

Expression of transglutaminase 2 (TGase 2) is related to invasion and resistance to chemotherapeutic agents in several cancer cells. However, there has been only limited clinical validation of TGase 2 as an independent prognostic marker in cancer.

Methods

The significance of TGase 2 expression as an invasive/migratory factor was addressed by in vitro assays employing down-regulation of TGase 2. TGase 2 expression as a prognostic indicator was assessed in 429 Korean patients with early-stage non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) by immunohistochemical staining.

Results

TGase 2 expression increased the invasive and migratory properties of NSCLC cells in vitro, which might be related to the induction of MMP-9. In the analysis of the immunohistochemical staining, TGase 2 expression in tumors was significantly correlated with recurrence in NSCLC (p = 0.005) or in the non-adenocarcinoma subtype (p = 0.031). Additionally, a multivariate analysis also showed a significant correlation between strong TGase 2 expression and shorter disease-free survival (DFS) in NSCLC (p = 0.029 and HR = 1.554) and in the non-adenocarcinoma subtype (p = 0.030 and HR = 2.184). However, the correlation in the adenocarcinoma subtype was not significant.

Conclusions

TGase 2 expression was significantly correlated with recurrence and shorter DFS in NSCLC, especially in the non-adenocarcinoma subtype including squamous cell carcinoma.
Diophantine Equations of Matching Games I
Authors: Hui Chun Yin , Pong Wai Yan
Published: September 2011

We solve a family of quadratic Diophantine equations associated with a simple kind of game. We show that the ternary case, in many ways, is the most interesting and the least arbitrary member of the family.
uber des wilden meres fluot. Thalassographie und Meereslandschaft in den mittelhochdeutschen Brautwerbungserzählungen
Authors: Kohnen Rabea
Published: September 2011

The present study examines the presentation and function of the sea in medieval German ‘bridal quest’ narratives. As these have mostly been read from a structuralist point of view the sea has often been identified with the ‘topographic border’ in the sense described by Lotman. Even though this identification can be useful it overlooks much of the nature of the sea, which is modelled as a space with specific rules, functions and characteristics. The present study attempts to give an impression of the narrative potential of the sea in four works: ‘Rother’, ‘Kudrun’, ‘Münchener Oswald’ and ‘Salman’ with special regard to ideas of space and landscape.
Effect of a Multiporous Beta–Tricalicum Phosphate on Bone Density Around Dental Implants Inserted Into Fresh Extraction Sockets
Authors: Daif Emad Tawfik
Published: September 2011

The aim of this study was to assess, via multi-slice helical computerized tomography (CT), the influence of the pure-phase multiporous beta–tricalcium phosphate (beta-TCP) on bone density around dental implants inserted into fresh extraction sockets. Twenty-eight patients (18 women and 10 men), indicated for extraction of their lower premolars and insertion of immediate dental implants, were included in this study. They were randomly divided into two equal groups (14 patients each). Group A received immediate dental implants without any filling material around the implants, while in group B, a pure-phase multiporous beta-TCP was gently packed into the bone gaps around the implants. Three and 6 months after loading the implants, a CT, sagittal and coronal, was made to measure the bone density around the implants. The results of the current study have shown that the mean values of the bone density measurements around the implants in group A were 1150 ± 205 (range, 645–1460) at 3 months and 1245 ± 165 (range, 884–1650) at 6 months after loading the implants. In group B, the mean values of the bone density measurements around the implants were 1280 ± 320 (range, 876–1790) and 1490 ± 358 (range, 1061–1965) at 3 and 6 months after loading the implants, respectively. The statistical analysis of the collected data showed a significant increase in the bone density measurements from 3 to 6 months only in group B (P < .05). Also, the difference between group A and B in the bone density measurements around the implants was statistically significant (P < .05) at only 6 months after loading. On the basis of the results presented in this study, it may be possible to mention that the pure-phase multiporous beta-TCP may enhance the bone density when inserted into the bone gaps around immediate dental implants.
Rehabilitation of a Patient With Mandibular Resection Using Osteointegrated Implants: A Case Report
Authors: Murat Sema , Gurbuz Ayhan , Kamburoglu Kivanc
Published: September 2011

This case report details a 65-year-old male patient who underwent mandibular resection and radiotherapy as treatment for squamous cell carcinoma of the right mandible. The patient was rehabilitated with an implant-supported fixed partial denture and a maxillary occlusal ramp. The patient has been wearing his prosthesis for 2 years with no complaints.
Does community forest management provide global environmental benefits and improve local welfare?
Authors: Bowler Diana E , Buyung-Ali Lisette M , Healey John R , Jones Julia PG , Knight Teri M , Pullin Andrew S
Published: September 2011

Global financial donors have invested billions of dollars in “Sustainable Forest Management” to conserve forests and the ecosystem services they provide. A major contributing mechanism, community forest management (CFM), aims to provide global environmental benefits (reduce deforestation, maintain biodiversity), while also improving local human welfare (alleviate poverty). We have systematically reviewed available evidence of CFM effectiveness and consider the implications of our findings for future investment in CFM programs. There is evidence of CFM being associated with greater tree density and basal area but not with other indicators of global environmental benefits. We found no data on local human welfare amenable to meta‐analysis. Poor study design, variable reporting of study methodology or context, and lack of common indicators make evidence synthesis difficult. Given the policy interest in and the planned donor expenditure on CFM, evaluation must be improved so that informed decisions can be made about appropriate investment in this approach.
Salivary Levels of Antibacterial Peptide (LL‐37/hCAP‐18) and Cotinine in Patients With Chronic Periodontitis
Authors: Takeuchi Yasuo , Nagasawa Toshiyuki , Katagiri Sayaka , Kitagawara Satoshi , Kobayashi Hiroaki , Koyanagi Tatsurou , Izumi Yuichi
Published: September 2011

Background: The purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between salivary LL‐37 levels and clinical severity in patients with chronic periodontitis (CP). The presence/absence of four periodontopathic bacteria and salivary cotinine levels were also examined to assess the impact of these factors on LL‐37 production.

Methods: Unstimulated salivary samples were collected from 69 patients with CP. Salivary concentrations of LL‐37 and cotinine were measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, Porphyromonas gingivalis, Tannerella forsythia, and Treponema denticola in saliva were detected by polymerase chain reaction. Periodontal examination included determination of probing depth (PD), clinical attachment level, bleeding on probing, and plaque control record.

Results: Mean salivary LL‐37 concentration was 225.0 ± 227.2 ng/mL, and a high prevalence of periodontopathic bacteria was observed. The stepwise ordinal logistic regression model showed that high salivary LL‐37 levels were significantly associated with the presence of T. denticola and higher percentage of teeth with PD ≥5 mm. In addition, higher salivary cotinine levels (≥8 ng/mL) were negatively associated with salivary LL‐37 levels.

Conclusions: Salivary LL‐37 level was positively correlated with severe periodontal destruction, and production was apparently associated with periodontopathic bacterial infection. The negative correlations between salivary LL‐37 and cotinine levels also suggest that smoking or long‐term exposure to environmental tobacco smoke can lead to lower LL‐37 levels in the oral cavity and increased risk of periodontitis.
Endoscopically Assisted Tunnel Approach for Minimally Invasive Corticotomies: A Preliminary Report
Authors: Hernández‐Alfaro Federico , Guijarro‐Martínez Raquel
Published: September 2011

Background: The dental community has expressed low acceptance of traditional corticotomy techniques for corticotomy‐facilitated orthodontics. These procedures are time consuming, entail substantial postoperative morbidity and periodontal risks, and are often perceived as highly invasive.

Methods: A total of 114 interdental sites were treated in nine consecutive patients. Under local anesthesia, a tunnel approach requiring one to three vertical incisions per arch (depending on the targeted teeth) was used. Piezosurgical corticotomies and elective bone augmentation procedures were performed under endoscopic assistance. Postoperative cone‐beam computerized tomography evaluation was used to confirm adequate corticotomy depth.

Results: Procedures were completed in a mean time of 26 minutes. Follow‐up evaluations revealed no loss of tooth vitality, no changes in periodontal probing depth, good preservation of the papillae, and no gingival recession. No evidence of crestal bone height reduction or apical root resorption was detected.

Conclusions: The tunnel approach minimizes soft‐tissue debridement and permits effective cortical cuts. The combination of piezosurgery technique with endoscopic assistance provides a quick, reliable means to design and perform these corticotomies while maximizing root integrity preservation. Moreover, the sites needing bone augmentation are selected under direct vision. Compared to traditional corticotomies, this procedure has manifest advantages in surgical time, technical complexity, patient morbidity, and periodontium preservation.
Effects of barley grain compared to commercial concentrate or rapeseed meal supplementation on performance of growing dairy bulls offered grass silage-based diet
Authors: HUUSKONEN A.
Published: September 2011

The objectives of the study with dairy bulls offered grass silage-based diet were to determine the effects on animal performance of (1) concentrate type (barley vs. commercial concentrate) and (2) supplementation of rapeseed meal (RSM) in barley-based concentrate, with data being compared from preweaning to slaughter. The experiment comprised a total of 37 Finnish Ayrshire and 23 Holstein-Friesian bulls. Experimental concentrate treatments were 1) rolled barley (B), 2) rolled barley + rapeseed meal (BRSM) and 3) commercial concentrate (CC). During the preweaning (from 0.5 to 2.5 months) there were no differences in intake, gain or feed conversion. During the postweaning (from 2.5 to 6.0 months) the energy intake and gain of the B bulls were 1213% lower than those of the BRSM bulls (p < 0.05) and 16% lower than those of the CC bulls (p < 0.01). However, there were no treatment differences in the energy intake or gain of the bulls during the finishing period (from 6.0 to 18.0 months of age) or on average during the experiment. Furthermore, carcass traits of the bulls did not differ between treatments. It is concluded that production traits were unaffected by concentrate type or RSM supplementation when data is compared from preweaning to slaughter.;
Composition of weed flora in spring cereals in Finland - a fourth survey
Authors: SALONEN J. , HYVÖNEN T. , JALLI H.
Published: September 2011

The weed flora in conventionally and organically grown spring cereals was investigated in southern and central Finland during 20072009. The survey was conducted in 16 regions, 283 farms and 595 fields (72 organically cropped and 523 conventionally cropped fields, of which 503 were treated with herbicides). The occurrence of weeds was assessed in late Julyearly August. Altogether 148 weed species were identified, of which 128 were broad-leaved and 20 grass species. In organically cropped fields, the average species number per field was 21 and the most frequent species were Chenopodium album 96%, Stellaria media 94%, Viola arvensis 94% and Elymus repens 89%. In conventionally cropped fields, the average species number was 12 and the most frequent weed species were Viola arvensis 83%, Stellaria media 65%, Galeopsis spp. 59% and Galium spurium 59%. The average density of weeds was 160 m-2 (median = 112) in sprayed conventional fields and 519 m-2 (468) in organic fields. The average air-dry biomass of weeds was 167 kg ha-1 (median = 82) and 775 kg ha-1 (563), respectively. Elymus repens, the most frequent and abundant grass species, produced the highest proportion (about 30%) of the total weed biomass in both cropping systems. The frequency of Galium spurium in conventional cropping and Fumaria officinalis in organic cropping had increased substantially since the previous survey in 19971999. The average size of the weed seedbank in the 5 cm surface layer was about 1 700 seeds m-2, the most predominant seeds being of C. album. Although the weed flora in Finnish spring cereal fields consists of numerous species, only a fraction of them severely threaten crop production in terms of their frequency and abundance. Weeds in conventional cropping were effectively controlled with available herbicides whereas weed management in organic cropping calls for urgent measures such as direct mechanical weed control in crop stands, which was not practised at all in survey fields.;
Developing Guidelines for Quality Community Health Nursing Clinical Placements for Baccalaureate Nursing Students
Authors: Dietrich Leurer Marie A. , Meagher-Stewart Donna , Cohen Benita E. , Seaman Patricia M. , Buhler Sherri , Granger Morag , Pattullo Heather
Published: September 2011

Rapidly increasing enrollment in Canadian schools of nursing has triggered the development of innovative clinical placement sites. There are both opportunities and challenges inherent in the delivery of clinical nursing education in diverse community settings. As part of the Canadian Association of Schools of Nursing’s (CASN) ongoing work to assist its members and ensure baccalaureate graduates are prepared to meet the Canadian Community Health Nursing Standards of Practice at an entry-to-practice level, the CASN Sub-Committee on Public Health (funded by the Public Health Agency of Canada) conducted extensive national consultations with representatives from both academic and practice settings, as well as key national organizations. The resultant Guidelines for Quality Community Health Nursing Clinical Placements, released by CASN in 2010, aim to provide direction to Canadian schools of nursing and practice settings in addressing the challenges and opportunities arising from the changing context of community health nursing student clinical placements.
Graphic constructions of characteristic diagrams in chemical engineering and the application of differential geometry
Authors: Pejovic Branko , Micic Vladan , Tomic Milorad , Tadic Goran , Jotanovic Milovan
Published: September 2011

Starting from the experimental concentration-time ( cA,t diagram this work
gives the construction of the rate of reaction-time (rA,t diagram using the
pure graphic method. The diagram was constructed based on the constructed
tangents in arbitrary points of the starting diagram by drawing lines
parallel to them in the predetermined pole. The evidence of the construction
was derived using differential geometry, i.e. the main theorem of
differential calculus. Differential properties between the observed values
were used in the method. Starting from the analytic relations rA = rA(t) and
cA = cA(t), which can be very complex (polynomes of the n-th order), and,
eliminating time t in order to give a full description of the process, we
obtain the analytical relation rA = rA(cA), which is then graphically
represented. Hoewever, this elimination of time can also be done graphically,
in a relatively simple way. After that, through the use of the integral
calculus, it was shown that concentration increase in a time interval is
proportional to the (rA,t) diagram surface area. Using a similar procedure,
further in the paper, it was shown that the time increase is proportional to
the (1/rA, cA) diagram surface area. In order for the method to be applicable
in practice, we have derived relations for appropriate coefficients of
proportionality. Verification of the method is illustrated by the two
characteristic examples from chemical kinetics at different monotonies of the
starting experimental functions.
Efficiency, productivity and stock performance: Evidence from the Turkish banking sector
Authors: Kasman Saadet , Kasman Adnan
Published: September 2011

This paper investigates the link between stock performance of the listed
commercial banks in the Turkish stock exchange and three measures of bank
performance, such as technical efficiency, scale efficiency and productivity
for the period 1998-2008. The relationship between efficiency and stock
returns is investigated by running a regression of stock returns on measures
of performance and some bank specific variables. The results indicate that
the changes in three measures of performance have positive and significant
effect on stock returns, suggesting that stocks of technical efficient, scale
efficient and productive banks tend to outperform their inefficient and
unproductive rivals.
Data Comparison Between Two Dental Spectrophotometers
Authors: Khashayar G , Dozic A , Kleverlaan CJ , Feilzer AJ
Published: September 2011

Clinical Relevance

Different color measuring devices (CMDs) are used to determine tooth color and the color of the matching restoration during the manufacturing process. This study questions whether it is possible to communicate color accurately when dentists and dental laboratories use different CMDs at different locations.
Evaluation of Task Performance during Mentally Imaging Three-Dimensional Shapes from Plane Figures
Authors: Kashihara Koji , Nakahara Yoshibumi
Published: September 2011

Mental imagery is an important theme in psychology. Although the mental rotation task is well known, the complicated functions in mental images with higher spatial perception remain unknown. The aim of this study was to evaluate the task performances during the mental imaging of two- or three-dimensional shapes (14 healthy male students, M age = 24.2 yr., SD = 3.4). The mental-image task to frame a 3D object from actual 2D figures (2D–3D task) had the longest reaction time ( p < .01); performance accuracy on this task was lower than for other tasks. The reaction time for the 2D–3D task differed statistically significantly from that on the typical working memory task using the mental image of three 2D figures. Compared with the 2D–3D task, illustration of a simple 3D object would be effective when a quick judgment of high accuracy is required. The feasibility study using an electroencephalogram suggests that the theta-band activity at the middle frontal lobe reflecting the acts of the working memory is related with mental images.
Tracking 10-Year Competitive Winning Performance of Judo Athletes across Age Groups
Authors: Julio Ursula F. , Takito Monica Y. , Mazzei Leandro , Miarka Bianca , Sterkowicz Stanislaw , Franchini Emerson
Published: September 2011

Little information is available concerning early specialization and competitive success in judo across the early training years. Thus, the present objective was to verify the stability of individual competitive performance of a state-level championship for judo athletes who had been previously successful. For this, 406 athletes from six age groups (9 to 20+ years old) of each sex were followed for 10 years. Using recorded data from the São Paulo State Judo Federation beginning in 1999, the scores and standings for these judo players were analyzed. The proportion of medal winners during this period was not constant, differing from the grand mean in all groups of both 204 males and 202 females. At the end of this period, only 7% of the male and 5% of the female athletes had maintained their competitive levels. Successful competitive performance in early judo competition was not associated with success later in adulthood.
Sport Stacking in Auditory and Visual Attention of Grade 3 Learners
Authors: Mortimer J. , Krysztofiak J. , Custard S. , McKune A. J.
Published: September 2011

The effect of sport stacking on auditory and visual attention in 32 Grade 3 children was examined using a randomised, cross-over design. Children were randomly assigned to a sport stacking ( n = 16) or arts/crafts group ( n = 16) with these activities performed over 3 wk. (12 30-min. sessions, 4 per week). This was followed by a 3-wk. wash-out period after which there was a cross-over and the 3-wk. intervention repeated, with the sports stacking group performing arts/crafts and the arts/crafts group performing sports stacking. Performance on the Integrated Visual and Auditory Continuous Performance Test, a measure of auditory and visual attention, was assessed before and after each of the 3-wk. interventions for each group. Comparisons indicated that sport stacking resulted in significant improvement in high demand function and fine motor regulation, while it caused a significant reduction in low demand function. Auditory and visual attention adaptations to sport stacking may be specific to the high demand nature of the task.
Maternal Sensitivity and Language in Early Childhood: A Test of the Transactional Model
Authors: Leigh Patricia , Nievar M. Angela , Nathans Laura
Published: September 2011

This study examined the relation between mothers' sensitive responsiveness to their children and the children's expressive language skills during early childhood. Reciprocal effects were tested with dyads of mothers and their children participating in the National Institute of Health and Human Development Study of Early Child Care and Youth Development. Sensitive maternal interactions positively affected children's later expressive language in the second and third years of life. Although maternal sensitivity predicted later language skills in children, children's language did not affect later maternal sensitivity as indicated in a structural equation model. These results do not support the 1975 transactional model of child development of Sameroff and Chandler. A consistent pattern of sensitivity throughout infancy and early childhood indicates the importance of fostering maternal sensitivity in infancy for prevention or remediation of expressive language problems in young children.
Influence of ThO2 on the photocatalytic activity of TiO2
Authors: Kralchevska Radina , Milanova Maria , Kovacheva Petya , Kolev Jovo , Avdeev Georgi , Todorovsky Dimitar
Published: September 2011

Microcomposites consisting of TiO2 (or Ce-doped TiO2) and ThO2 (0.5–2% of the TiO2 mass) are produced by sol-gel synthesis of TiO2 in presence of ThO2. X-ray diffraction study reveals the effects of ThO2 (compared to the ThO2-free TiO2, obtained by the same method) on the anatase interplanar distances, crystallites size and phase composition. The photocatalytic tests in presence of the composites under UV irradiation reveal an increase of the Malachite Green degradation rate constant. The effect depends on the Th relative content, temperature of annealing of the catalyst and addition of other doping agent. The highest photocatalytic activity is observed for TiO2 obtained at 550°C and containing 1% ThO2. The composite exhibits activity in dark, also. The presence of Ce4+ ions is not an obligatory requirement for the realization of the ThO2 effect. The reported results suggest that the radioactivity of the Th and/or its decay products is one of the main factors responsible for the increased photocatalytic activity of TiO2.
Simple method of fabrication of hydrophobic coatings for polyurethanes
Authors: Butruk Beata , Ziętek Paulina , Ciach Tomasz
Published: September 2011

The aim of this study was to develop a method of manufacturing versatile hydrophobic coatings for polymers. Authors present a simple technique of polyurethane (PU) surface modification with covalently attached silicones (PDMS) or fluorocarbons (PFC). Diisocyanates were applied as linker molecules. The obtained coatings were characterized using spectroscopic analysis (FTIR), scanning acoustic microscopy (SAM) and water contact angle measurements. FTIR analysis revealed high efficiency of grafting reaction. The results of contact angle measurement indicated significant increase of hydrophobicity — from 66° (unmodified PU) to 113° (PU grafted with PDMS) and 118° (PU grafted with PFC). Acoustic microscopy analysis confirmed satisfactory homogeneity and smoothness of the fabricated layers. In vitro cell tests revealed non-adherent properties of the surfaces. Both, MTT assay and fluorescence staining confirmed non-cytotoxicity of the coatings, which makes them potential candidates for use in biomedical applications.
NSGA-II-RJG applied to multi-objective optimization of polymeric nanoparticles synthesis with silicone surfactants
Authors: Furtuna Renata , Curteanu Silvia , Racles Carmen
Published: September 2011

Polydimethylsiloxane nanoparticles were obtained by nanoprecipitation, using a siloxane surfactant as stabilizer. Two neural networks and a genetic algorithm were used to optimize this process, by minimizing the particle diameter and the polydispersity, finding in this way the optimum values for surfactant and polymer concentrations, and storage temperature. In order to improve the performance of the non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm, NSGA-II, a genetic operator was introduced in this study — the transposition operator — “real jumping genes”, resulting NSGA-II-RJG. It was implemented in original software and was applied to the multi-objective optimization of the polymeric nanoparticles synthesis with silicone surfactants. The multi-objective function of the algorithm included two fitness functions. One fitness function was calculated with a neural network modelling the variation of the particle diameter on the surfactant concentration, polymer concentration, and storage temperature, and the other was computed by a neural network modelling the dependence of polydispersity index on surfactant and polymer concentrations. The performance of the software program that implemented NSGA-II-RJG was highlighted by comparing it with the software implementation of NSGA-II. The results obtained from simulations showed that NSGA-II-RJG is able to find non-dominated solutions with a greater diversity and a faster convergence time than NSGA-II.
The structural, magnetic, hydrogenation and electrode properties of REMg2Cu9−xNix alloys (RE=La, Pr,Tb)
Authors: Pavlyuk Volodymyr , Rozycka-Sokolowska Ewa , Marciniak Bernard , Paul-Boncour Valerie , Dorogova Maria
Published: September 2011

The LaMg2Cu9, PrMg2Cu9, LaMg2Cu4Ni5, PrMg2Cu4Ni5 and TbMg2Cu6Ni3 alloys were prepared for the investigations of crystal structure, magnetic and hydrogen storage properties. The magnetic properties of several REMg2Cu9−xNix compounds have been studied up to 9 T and from 2 to 300 K. Tb compounds show a ferrimagnetic (with Ni) or antiferromagnetic (without Ni) behaviour, which can be attributed to the Tb magnetic structure. At high temperature a paramagnetic Curie Weiss behaviour is observed and the effective moment corresponds to that of Tb. A magnetic contribution of Pr moment is observed in both Pr compounds, with larger magnetization for PrMg2Cu4Ni5 and a transition at 3 K. The hydrogen absorption occurs at 95 bar for LaMg2Cu9 (3 H f.u.−1) and above 2 bars for LaMg2Cu4Ni5 (1.6 H f.u.−1). The effect of Cu-Ni substitution on the electrochemical properties of LaMg2M9 ternary alloys was investigated leading to maximum discharge capacity of 250–310 mAh g−1.
Ternary ion-association complexes between the indium(III) - 4-(2-pyridylazo)resorcinol anionic chelate and some tetrazolium cations
Authors: Toncheva Galya , Gavazov Kiril , Lekova Vanya , Stojnova Kirila , Dimitrov Atanas
Published: September 2011

Complex formation and liquid-liquid extraction were studied in systems containing indium(III), 4-(2-pyridylazo)resorcinol (PAR), tetrazolium salt (TZS), water and chloroform. Two different TZS were used: 2,3,5-triphenyl-2H-tetrazolium chloride (TTC) and 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide (MTT). The optimum conditions for extraction of In(III) as a ternary complex, (TT+)[In(PAR)2] or (MTT+)[In(PAR)2], were found: pH, extraction time, concentration of PAR and concentration of TZS. The constants of extraction (Kex), constants of association (β), constants of distribution (KD) and recovery factors (R%) were determined. The apparent molar absorptivities in chloroform were calculated to be ɛ′520=6.6×104 L mol−1 cm−1 and ɛ′515=7.1×104 L mol−1 cm−1 for the systems with TTC (I) and MTT (II), respectively. Beer’s law was obeyed for In(III) concentrations up to 3.4 µg mL−1 in both the cases. The limits of detection (LOD=0.07 µg mL−1I and LOD=0.12 µg mL−1II), limits of quantification (LOQ=0.24 µg mL−1I and LOQ=0.41 µg mL−1II) and Sandell’s sensitivities (SS) were estimated as well.
Large transverse momentum lepton pair production at the Large Hadron Collider
Authors: Yin Rui-tao , Fu Yong-ping , Li Yun-de
Published: September 2011

We study the large transverse momentum distribution of lepton pairs produced in heavy-ion collisions, making use of the perturbative QCD. Referring to the calculation of the parton-parton production process into lepton pairs at the Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider (RHIC), the production of lepton pairs at large transverse momentum is extended to the Large Hadron Collider (LHC). The contribution of the parton-parton production process into lepton pairs in Pb-Pb collisions at the LHC is calculated, including the complete processes at large transverse momentum. Lepton pair production with the direct single photon process and the resolved single photon process are considered and confirmed to be significant at the LHC.
Preliminary spectroscopic investigation of tacrolimus TiO2 system
Authors: Todica Mihai , Udrescu Luciana
Published: September 2011

The effect of air and UV exposure on the tacrolimus was observed by Raman and UV VIS spectroscopy. For moderate time exposure the chemical structure of tacrolimus is not affected. The absorption property of tacrolimus was enhanced by addition of TiO2.
Three-Dimensional Computed Tomography Analysis to Help Define an Endoscopic Endonasal Approach of the Pterygopalatine Fossa
Authors: Hwang Se Hwan , Joo Young Hoon , Seo Jae Hyun , Kim Soo Whan , Cho Jin Hee , Kang Jun Myung
Published: September 2011

Background

The pterygopalatine fossa (PPF) can be entered endoscopically, but the endoscopic landmarks to localize the bony structures in the PPF are not well described. This study aimed to investigate the anatomy of the sphenopalatine foramen (SPF), vidian canal (VC), and foramen rotundum (FR) with regard to an endoscopic endonasal approach to the PPF using three-dimensional reconstruction of computed tomography (CT) scans.

Methods

The CT scans of 98 patients were retrospectively evaluated. The morphology of the SPF, VC, and FR as well as the spatial relationship between the SPF and VC were measured on a three-dimensional model.

Results

The mean diameters of the SPF, VC, and FR were 5.3 ±1.3 mm, 2.4 ± 0.7 mm, and 2.8 ± 0.5 mm, respectively. The mean distance between the VC and posteroinferior margin of SPF was 3.8 ± 1.0 mm. The mean vertical and horizontal distances on the surface plane of sphenoid bone between the VC and FR were 5.8 ± 1.9 mm and 8.5 ± 1.9 mm, respectively. The whole or partial margin of the VC was above the inferior margin of the SPF in 92% (180/196) of the VC and lateral to the posterior margin of the SPF in 98% (195/196) of the VC. The distance between the VC and SPF had a positive correlation with the distances between the VC and FR.

Conclusion

The endoscopic endonasal approach to the PPF will be performed with greater accuracy and safety through comprehension of the spatial relationships between the SPF, VC, and FR.
Histological Features of the Nasal Mucosa in Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation
Authors: Ortiz Érica , Sakano Eulália , Meirelles Luciana R. , Vigorito Afonso C. , Cintra Maria L. , Paschoal Ilma A. , Chone Carlos T.
Published: September 2011

Background

Immunosuppression is the leading cause of recurrent sinus infections after hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT), with increased incidence of sinusitis in patients with chronic graft versus host disease (GVHD). Histological descriptions of the oral mucosa, lung ciliary epithelium, and intestinal mucosa related to HSCT have been described. However, few have described the nasal mucosa. We, therefore, sought to elucidate the histological and ultrastructural features of the nasal mucosa in patients after HSCT to better understand the pathophysiology of the immune response.

Methods

Uncinate processes from 24 HSCT patients and 12 immunocompetent patients were subjected to histological analyses via light and transmission electron microscopy (TEM).

Results

TEM revealed aberrant cilia structure, altered mitochondria quantity, microvilli, and cytoplasm vacuolization. All HSCT patients with rhinosinusitis had significant loss or absence of cilia (p = 0.018). Apoptotic bodies were increased and Goblet cells decreased in nasal epithelium from patients with chronic GVHD (p = 0.04).

Conclusion

This tissue destruction likely enhances pathogen penetration resulting in recurrent infection.
Functional and Cosmetic Outcomes of External Approach Septoplasty
Authors: Phillips P. Seamus , Stow Nicholas , Timperley Daniel G. , Sacks Raymond , Srubiski Aviva , Harvey Richard J. , Marcells George N.
Published: September 2011

Background

The external approach for septoplasty is an important surgical technique to manage severe septal deviations, caudal deformities, and mid-dorsal abnormalities when a simple endonasal approach may not suffice. The procedure is longer in duration and draws on more resources than endonasal septoplasty. The outcome reporting of the external approach for septoplasty is important to provide evidence of benefit for both patients and health care providers. This study was designed to describe functional and cosmetic outcomes of the external approach for septoplasty.

Methods

A prospective assessment of consecutive patients undergoing the external approach for septoplasty at a tertiary center was performed. Pre- and postoperative nasal peak inspiratory flow (NPIF), symptom scores, 22-Item Sinonasal Outcome Test (SNOT-22), Nasal Obstruction Score, and Short Form 36 (SF-36) quality-of-life scores were assessed. A global Likert change scale was also used for both function and cosmesis.

Results

Thirty patients (mean age, 40 ± 15.9 years; 40% women) were assessed with a mean follow-up of 12.2 ± 9.5 months. Mean NPIF improved significantly from 93.3 ± 34.7 to 143.0 ± 44.3 (p < 0.001). Nasal obstruction score improved significantly from 3.6 ± 1.3 to 0.69 ± 1.2 (p < 0.001). SNOT-22 improved significantly from 34.1 ± 17.2 to 12.7 ± 14.9 (p < 0.001). Ninety-six percent had subjective improvement in nasal function, and 96% had no change or improvement in cosmesis. Seventy percent improved by the minimal clinically important difference for NPIF.

Conclusion

The external approach for septoplasty is an operation that produces significant improvements in subjective and objective nasal health measures. Although requiring greater training and operative time, it is an appropriate approach for the severely deviated nasal septum.
The Expression of Adiponectin Receptor is Altered in Mild and Moderate/Severe Persistent Allergic Nasal Mucosa
Authors: Kim Ha Kyun , Kim Tae Hoon , Kim Ki Hyoung , Hwang Jae Woong , Park Sang Heon , Yum Gun Whee , Lee Jae Yong , Cho Woo Sung , Lee Heung Man , Lee Seung Hoon , Lee Sang Hag
Published: September 2011

Background

Adiponectin, one of the adipokines, has been implicated in the inflammatory process in patients with allergic rhinitis. The level of adiponectin is affected by immunotherapy. Considering the fact that adiponectin receptors (AdipoRs) mediate intracellular signaling events in response to the binding of adiponectin, the role of AdipoRs in healthy and allergic nasal mucosa should be determined. This study investigates the level of expression and distribution pattern of AdipoR1 and AdipoR2 in healthy, mild, and moderate/severe persistent allergic nasal mucosa to understand the role of adiponectin in allergic rhinitis.

Methods

The level of expression and distribution pattern of AdipoR1 and AdipoR2 were evaluated in healthy, mild, and moderate/severe persistent allergic nasal mucosa, using semiquantitative reverse-transcriptase–polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), immunohistochemistry, and Western blot analysis.

Results

AdipoR1 was expressed in healthy, mild, and moderate/severe persistent allergic nasal mucosa where it was commonly localized to the vascular endothelium. However, AdipoR2 was not expressed in any samples of nasal mucosa tested in the present study. Semiquantitative RT-PCR and Western blot analysis showed that the level of expression of AdipoR1 mRNA and protein was decreased in mild and moderate/severe persistent allergic nasal mucosa in comparison with healthy nasal mucosa, but not significantly different between mild and moderate/severe persistent allergic nasal mucosa.

Conclusion

These results indicate that AdipoR1 may play an important role in the pathogenesis of allergic nasal mucosa, suggesting a role for AdipoR1 in vascular dysfunction in mild and moderate/severe persistent allergic nasal mucosa.
Spirometric Abnormalities in Patients with Allergic Rhinitis: Indicator of an “Asthma March”?
Authors: Ciprandi Giorgio , Signori Alessio , Tosca Maria Angela , Cirillo Ignazio
Published: September 2011

Background

Allergic rhinitis (AR) may precede and promote the onset of asthma. However, few studies addressed this issue mainly concerning bronchial physiological parameters. The aim of this study was to assess forced expiratory flow at 25–75% (FEF 25–75 ), forced expiratory volume at 1 second (FEV 1 ), and response to bronchodilation test in a large group of AR patients.

Methods

Sixteen hundred five adult AR patients were evaluated. Clinical examination, assessment of nasal obstruction perception by visual analog scale, spirometry, and bronchodilation test were performed in all patients.

Results

There were 8.4% of patients with abnormal FEV 1 values, 24.7% had impaired FEF 25–75, and 66.1% had reversibility with bronchodilation. A trend of spirometric impairment seems to exist in these patients. Age, gender, and duration of rhinitis may be risk factors for these findings. Different grades of bronchial impairment seem to exist.

Conclusion

This study highlights the close link between upper and lower airways and suggests the possible existence of a progression from AR toward asthma, such as an “asthma march.” Therefore, asthma should be suspected and carefully investigated in AR patients.
Intraoperative Medialization of Medial Rectus Muscle as a New Endoscopic Technique for Approaching Intraconal Lesions
Authors: Tomazic Peter Valentin , Stammberger Heinz , Habermann Walter , Gerstenberger Claus , Braun Hannes , Gellner Verena , Mokry Michael , Klein Angelika , Langmann Gerald , Köele Wolfgang
Published: September 2011

Background

Intraconal tumors of the orbit are rare entities and surgical treatment is challenging. Endoscopic transnasal approaches to the orbit offer a new perspective for surgery, although only few reports exist in literature. This study displays the Graz experience with endoscopic approaches to intraorbital tumors between 2006 and 2010 introducing a novel endoscopic technique for temporary medialization of the medial rectus muscle facilitating access to the orbital cone.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of patients’ charts was performed.

Results

For approaches to intraconal lesions a special endoscopic temporary medialization technique of the medial rectus muscle through applying transseptal sutures was developed. Six patients (four male and two female patients) have been included in this study presenting with intraconal/intraorbital tumors. Three patients underwent endoscopic surgery for two hemangiomas and one Schwannoma, respectively, and three patients were successfully biopsied endoscopically revealing one malignant melanoma, one malignant lymphoma, and one optic glioma each. Both hemangiomas were completely resected without any deterioration of vision. The Schwannoma was partially resected with postoperative imaging showing no tumor progression within 3 months. No intraoperative complications occurred. Five cases were performed with computer assisted surgery using CT/MR fusion navigation.

Conclusion

Although technically challenging, the endoscopic approach to the orbit, even for intraconal lesions with medialization of the medial rectus muscle, can be safe and promising for well-selected cases. Good postoperative results and sufficient material acquisition for proper histological examination can be obtained. Advantages are good visualization of the surgical field and avoidance of external scars. Limitations to endoscopic techniques are tumors in the lateral superior and lateral inferior quadrant of the orbit.