bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The geoarchaeology and traditional knowledge of winter sod houses in eastern Hudson Bay, Canadian Low Arctic
Authors: Lemieux Anne‐Marie , Bhiry Najat , Desrosiers Pierre M.
Published: June 2011

A multidisciplinary study was undertaken at the Qijurittuq Site (IbGk‐3) on Drayton Island in Low‐Arctic Quebec (Canada) to document the relationships between climatic, environmental, and cultural changes and the choice of Thule/Inuit dwelling style in the eastern Arctic. Several marine terraces were14C‐dated with shells in order to reconstruct the area's uplift (glacioisostatic rebound) curve. Plant macrofossil analysis of peat was conducted to reconstruct past vegetation and, indirectly, past climate. Archaeological surveys and excavations characterized the structure of subterranean sod houses at the Qijurittuq Site and were supplemented with open interviews with Inuit elders for a better understanding of site location and the use of household space. The sites selected for habitation were well‐drained sandy marine terraces in a valley sheltered from prevailing winds. Sod houses were in turn made possible by the abundance of driftwood on the island and the presence of nearby peatland. Thule/Inuit people used semi‐subterranean houses rather than igloos at the Qijurittuq Site during the dry, cold conditions toward the end of the Little Ice Age. Stable environmental conditions and food supply during winter possibly explain the use of those semipermanent houses on Drayton Island. However, it does not exclude the use of igloos during short expeditions on ice. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
OWNERSHIP AND FINANCIAL SUSTAINABILITY OF GERMAN ACUTE CARE HOSPITALS
Authors: Augurzky Boris , Engel Dirk , Schmidt Christoph M. , Schwierz Christoph
Published: June 2011

This paper considers the role of ownership form for the financial sustainability of German acute care hospitals over time. We measure financial sustainability by a hospital‐specific yearly probability of default (PD) trying to mirror the ability of hospitals to survive in the market in the long run. The results show that private ownership is associated with significantly lower PDs than public ownership. Moreover, path dependence in the PD is substantial but far from 100%, indicating a large number of improvements and deteriorations in financial sustainability over time. Yet, the general public hospitals have the highest path dependence. Overall, this indicates that public hospitals, which are in a poor financial standing, remain in that state or even deteriorate over time, which may be conflicting with financial sustainability. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
αLβ2 Integrin is indispensable for CD8+ T‐cell recruitment in experimental pancreatic and hepatocellular cancer
Authors: Takeichi Takayuki , Mocevicius Paulius , Deduchovas Olegas , Salnikova Olga , Castro‐Santa Edward , Büchler Markus W. , Schmidt Jan , Ryschich Eduard
Published: June 2011

Recruitment of activated leukocytes from peripheral blood into the tumor tissue is a crucial step of the immune response, which is controlled by the interaction between specific adhesion molecules such as endothelial ICAM‐1 and leukocyte β2‐integrins. Although attenuated expression of adhesion molecules on tumor endothelium has been proposed to represent a mechanism, which suppresses the intratumoral leukocyte infiltration, the relevance of adhesion molecules for leukocyte recruitment in tumor tissue is poorly understood. The present study is the first investigation of the role of ICAM‐1 and β2‐integrins in leukocyte recruitment in pancreatic and hepatocellular cancer in vivo, which was studied using knockout mice, intravital time‐lapse microscopy and immunohistochemistry. We found that tumor tissue of both pancreatic and hepatocellular cancer was infiltrated with numerous active lymphoid and myeloid leukocytes, although the leukocyte extravasation rate in tumor blood vessels was very low. The knockout of LFA‐1 (also known as αLβ2 integrin) strongly suppressed recruitment of CD8+ T cells whereas no significant differences of leukocyte adhesion and infiltration were found in ICAM‐1−/− and Mac‐1−/− mice. Analysis of the interstitial leukocyte migration demonstrated that intratumoral leukocytes used haptokinetic type of migration, however, no significant differences of leukocyte migration between any knockout strains were found. We concluded that leukocyte recruitment in pancreatic and hepatocellular cancer is a slow‐going process whose dynamics clearly contrasts to a high‐speed leukocyte recruitment during acute inflammation. In contrast to acute inflammatory reaction, only LFA‐1 controls recruitment of CD8+ T‐cells in both pancreatic and hepatocellular cancer, whereas ICAM‐1 and Mac‐1 are dispensable.
Reactivation of p53 mutants by p53 reactivation and induction of massive apoptosis in thyroid cancer cells
Authors: Messina Rosa Linda , Sanfilippo Mariangela , Vella Veronica , Pandini Giuseppe , Vigneri Paolo , Nicolosi Maria Luisa , Gianì Fiorenza , Vigneri Riccardo , Frasca Francesco
Published: June 2011

Most undifferentiated thyroid carcinomas express p53 mutants and thereafter, are very resistant to chemotherapy. p53 reactivation and induction of massive apoptosis (Prima‐1) is a compound restoring the tumor‐suppressor activity of p53 mutants. We tested the effect of Prima‐1 in thyroid cancer cells harboring p53 mutations. Increasing doses of Prima‐1 reduced viability of thyroid cancer cells at a variable extent (range 20–80%). Prima‐1 up‐regulated p53 target genes (p21WAF1, BCL2‐associated X protein (Bax), and murine double minute 2 (MDM2)), in BC‐PAP and Hth‐74 cells (expressing D259Y/K286E and K286E p53 mutants) but had no effect in SW1736 (p53 null) and TPC‐1 (expressing wild‐type p53) thyroid cancer cells. Prima‐1 also increased the cytotoxic effects of either doxorubicin or cisplatin in thyroid cancer cells, including the chemo‐resistant 8305C, Hth‐74 and BC‐PAP cells. Moreover, real‐time PCR and Western blot indicated that Prima‐1 increases the mRNA of thyroid‐specific differentiation markers in thyroid cancer cells. Fluorescence‐activated cell sorting analysis revealed that Prima‐1 effect on thyroid cancer cells occurs via the enhancement of both cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. Small interfering RNA experiments indicated that Prima‐1 effect is mediated by p53 mutants but not by the p53 paralog p73. Moreover, in C‐643 thyroid cancer cells, forced to ectopically express wild‐type p53, Prima‐1 prevented the dominant negative effect of double K248Q/K286E p53 mutant. Finally, co‐IP experiments indicated that in Hth‐74 cells Prima‐1 prevents the ability of p53 mutants to sequestrate the p53 paralog TAp73. These in vitro studies imply that p53 mutant reactivation by small compounds may become a novel anticancer therapy in undifferentiated thyroid carcinomas.
Pleural malignant mesothelioma epidemic: Incidence, modalities of asbestos exposure and occupations involved from the Italian National Register
Authors: Marinaccio Alessandro , Binazzi Alessandra , Marzio Davide Di , Scarselli Alberto , Verardo Marina , Mirabelli Dario , Gennaro Valerio , Mensi Carolina , Riboldi Luciano , Merler Enzo , Zotti Renata De , Romanelli Antonio , Chellini Elisabetta , Silvestri Stefano , Pascucci Cristiana , Romeo Elisa , Menegozzo Simona , Musti Marina , Cavone Domenica , Cauzillo Gabriella , Tumino Rosario , Nicita Carmela , Melis Massimo , Iavicoli Sergio ,   ReNaM Working Group
Published: June 2011

Due to the large scale use of asbestos (more than 3.5 million tons produced or imported until its definitive banning in 1992), a specific national surveillance system of mesothelioma incident cases is active in Italy, with direct and individual anamnestic etiological investigation. In the period between 1993 and 2004, a case‐list of 8,868 pleural MM was recorded by the Italian National Register (ReNaM) and the modalities of exposure to asbestos fibres have been investigated for 6,603 of them. Standardized incidence rates are 3.49 (per 100,000 inhabitants) for men and 1.25 for women, with a wide regional variability. Occupational asbestos exposure was in 69.3% of interviewed subjects (N = 4,577 cases), while 4.4% was due to cohabitation with someone (generally, the husband) occupationally exposed, 4.7% by environmental exposure from living near a contamination source and 1.6% during a leisure activity. In the male group, 81.5% of interviewed subjects exhibit an occupational exposure. In the exposed workers, the median year of first exposure was 1957, and mean latency was 43.7 years. The analysis of exposures by industrial sector focuses on a decreasing trend for those traditionally signaled as “at risk” (asbestos‐cement industry, shipbuilding and repair and railway carriages maintenance) and an increasing trend for the building construction sector. The systematic mesothelioma surveillance system is relevant for the prevention of the disease and for supporting an efficient compensation system. The existing experience on all‐too‐predictable asbestos effects should be transferred to developing countries where asbestos use is spreading.
Portland cement for bone tissue engineering: Effects of processing and metakaolin blends
Authors: Gallego‐Perez Daniel , Higuita‐Castro Natalia , Quiroz Felipe García , Posada Olga M. , López Luis E. , Litsky Alan S. , Hansford Derek J.
Published: June 2011

The need for a suitable scaffolding material for load bearing bone tissue engineering still has yet to be met satisfactorily. In this study, Portland cement and Portland cement/metakaolin (MK) blends were processed to render them biologically and mechanically suitable for such application. Portland cement was mixed with MK at different ratios. The slurries were hydrated under atmospheric (noncarbonated samples) and high‐CO2 conditions (carbonated samples). The mechanical properties were characterized via compressive tests. The bioactivity was analyzed in a simulated body fluid solution. Scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive spectroscopy were used to evaluate sample morphology and chemistry. The cytocompatibility (direct contact assay, MTT test, and alkaline phosphatase activity) was tested using human osteoblast‐like cells. Cell responses were observed via conventional and electron microscopy. The results showed that the implementation of MK did not significantly influence the mechanical properties. All the samples evidenced bioactive behavior. Cell experiments confirmed a highly cytotoxic response to the noncarbonated specimens. The introduction of MK as well as the CO2 pretreatment significantly improved the cytocompatibility of the specimens. These results show that properly processed Portland cement and Portland cement/MK blends could present suitable properties for the development of load‐bearing scaffolding structures in bone tissue‐engineering applications. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2011.
Complement activation by candidate biomaterials of an implantable microfabricated medical device
Authors: Sokolov Andrey , Hellerud Bernt C. , Pharo Anne , Johannessen Erik A. , Mollnes Tom E.
Published: June 2011

Implantable devices realized by microfabrication have introduced a new class of potential biomaterials whose properties would need to be assessed. Such devices include sensors for measuring biological substances like glucose. Thus, 14 different candidate materials intended for design of such a device were investigated with respect to their complement activation potential in human serum. The fluid‐phase activation was measured by the products C4d, Bb, C3bc, and the terminal complement complex (TCC), whereas solid‐phase activation was measured by deposition of TCC on the material surfaces. No fluid‐phase activation was found for materials related to the capsule, carrier, or sealing. Fluid‐phase activation was, however, triggered to a various extent in three of the four nanoporous membranes (cellulose, polyamide, and aluminium oxide), whereas polycarbonate was rendered inactive. Solid‐phase activation discriminated more sensitively between all the materials, revealing that the capsule candidate polydimethylsiloxane and sealing candidate silicone 3140 were highly compatible, showing significantly lower TCC deposition than the negative control (p < 0.01). Three of the candidate materials were indifferent, whereas the remaining nine showed significantly higher deposition of TCC than the negative control (p < 0.01). In conclusion, complement activation, in particular when examined on the solid phase, discriminated well between the different candidate materials tested and could be used as a guide for the selection of the best‐suited materials for further investigation and development of the device. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2011.
Mindfulness as a moderator in expressive writing
Authors: Poon Alvin , Danoff‐Burg Sharon
Published: June 2011

Randomized, controlled studies have documented positive physical and psychological effects of writing about traumatic stress. Some of these studies have shown that individual differences play an important role, with participants responding differently to the intervention based on their personal characteristics. In the present expressive writing experiment, the trait of mindfulness was examined as a potential moderator. Seventy‐six undergraduates were randomly assigned to either expressive writing (n = 37) or a control group (n = 39). Main effects favoring expressive writing were found, and these were qualified by significant interactions with mindfulness. Specifically, individuals with higher mindfulness scores responded better to expressive writing, experiencing greater physical and psychological benefits than individuals with lower mindfulness scores. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol 67:1–15, 2011.
Pain and emotion: a biopsychosocial review of recent research
Authors: Lumley Mark A. , Cohen Jay L. , Borszcz George S. , Cano Annmarie , Radcliffe Alison M. , Porter Laura S. , Schubiner Howard , Keefe Francis J.
Published: June 2011

Objective and Method:Research on emotion and pain has burgeoned. We review the last decade's literature, focusing on links between emotional processes and persistent pain.Results:Neurobiological research documents the neural processes that distinguish affective from sensory pain dimensions, link emotion and pain, and generate central nervous system pain sensitization. Psychological research demonstrates that greater pain is related to emotional stress and limited emotional awareness, expression, and processing. Social research shows the potential importance of emotional communication, empathy, attachment, and rejection.Conclusions:Emotions are integral to the conceptualization, assessment, and treatment of persistent pain. Research should clarify when to eliminate or attenuate negative emotions, and when to access, experience, and express them. Theory and practice should integrate emotion into cognitive‐behavioral models of persistent pain. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol 67:1–27, 2011.
Differential effect of oxidative or excitotoxic stress on the transcriptional profile of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis‐linked mutant SOD1 cultured neurons
Authors: Boutahar Nadia , Wierinckx Anne , Camdessanche Jean Philippe , Antoine Jean‐Christophe , Reynaud Evelyne , Lassabliere François , Lachuer Joël , Borg Jacques
Published: June 2011

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive, lethal, degenerative disorder of motor neurons. The causes of most cases of ALS are as yet undefined. In a previous study, it was shown that N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate (NMDA) and H2O2 stimuli reduce neuronal survival in cortical neurons in culture (Boutahar et al., 2008). To identify variations in gene expression in response to these neurotoxins in transgenic vs. control cortical neurons cultures, both microarray and RT‐PCR analysis were performed. High‐density oligonucleotide microarrays showed changes in the expression of about 600 genes involved in protein degradation, neurotrophic factors pathway, cell cycle, inflammation, cytoskeleton, cell adhesion, transcription, or signalling. The most up‐regulated genes following H2O2 treatment were involved in cytoskeletal organization and axonal transport, such as ARAP2, KIF17, and DKK2, or in trophic factors pathways, such as insulin‐like growth factor‐binding protein 4 (IGFBP4), FGF17, and serpin2. The most down‐regulated genes were involved in ion transport, such as TRPV1. After NMDA treatment, the most up‐regulated genes were involved in protein degradation, such as ubiquitin‐conjugating enzyme E2I and cathepsin H, and the most down‐regulated genes were involved in ion transport, such as SCN7A. We conclude that these neurotoxins act through different transcriptional inductions, and these changes may reflect an adaptative cellular response to the cellular stress induced by the neurotoxins involved in ALS in the presence of mutant human SOD1. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
ERK1/2 and ERK5 have distinct roles in the regulation of brain‐derived neurotrophic factor expression
Authors: Su Chang , Underwood Wendy , Rybalchenko Nataliya , Singh Meharvan
Published: June 2011

Neurotrophins play essential roles in the development, differentiation, and survival of neuronal and nonneuronal cells. Alterations in neurotrophin expression have been implicated in a variety of neurodegenerative disorders. Dysregulation of brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) has been implicated in deficits of long‐term potentiation and cognition and may contribute to the development of Alzheimer's disease (AD). In this study, we used complementary pharmacological and molecular approaches to evaluate the role of ERK1/2 and ERK5, two members of the MAPK pathway associated with neuroprotection, in regulating BDNF expression in C6 glial cells and primary astrocytes. Our data revealed that U0126, an inhibitor of both ERK5 and ERK1/2, increased the levels of BDNF mRNA, whereas the MEK1/2‐specific inhibitor PD184352 did not, suggesting that ERK5 exerts negative control over BDNF expression. This was supported by experiments in which RNAi‐mediated depletion of ERK5 led to an increase in BDNF. In contrast, transfection with constitutively active MEK5 resulted in an inhibition of BDNF expression, confirming the inhibitory role of ERK5 in the regulation of BDNF. Interestingly, transfection with the dominant active mutant of MEK1 (MEKR4F), the upstream activator of ERK1/2, resulted in a modest increase in BDNF levels. Collectively, our data suggest that ERK5 and ERK1/2 exert opposite effects on BDNF expression and support the hypothesis that an imbalance of these two signaling pathways may contribute to the pathology of diseases in which neurotrophin dysregulation is noted. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Lubricin distribution in the torn human anterior cruciate ligament and meniscus
Authors: Zhang Dafang , Cheriyan Thomas , Martin Scott D. , Gomoll Andreas H. , Schmid Thomas M. , Spector Myron
Published: June 2011

The objective of this study was to: (1) determine the distribution of lubricin in the human torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and meniscus; (2) determine the distribution of lubricin in the human intact ACL and meniscus; (3) and identify potential cellular sources of lubricin in these tissues. Ten torn ACLs and six torn menisci were obtained from surgeries; for comparison, 11 intact ACLs and 13 intact menisci were obtained from total knee replacements. Samples were formalin fixed and processed for immunohistochemical staining with a monoclonal antibody for lubricin. In torn ACLs and menisci, lubricin was generally found as a discrete layer covering the torn surface. No surface lubricin staining was found on the transected edges produced during excision. Lubricin was also found on the native surfaces of intact ACLs and menisci. In all tissues, lubricin was found in the matrix and intracellularly. The surface layer of lubricin coating torn edges of ACLs and menisci may interfere with the integrative healing process needed for repair. © 2011 Orthopaedic Research Society Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 29:1916–1922, 2011
Monoliths with immobilized zirconium ions for selective enrichment of phosphopeptides
Authors: Wang Hui , Duan Jicheng , Xu Hongjiu , Zhao Liang , Liang Yu , Shan Yichu , Zhang Lihua , Liang Zhen , Zhang Yukui
Published: June 2011

To meet the demands of protein phosphorylation study, immobilized zirconium ion affinity chromatography (Zr4+‐IMAC) monolith was prepared by combining UV‐initiated polymerization of monolithic support and subsequent photografting in both capillary columns and microchannels. Hydrophilic poly(2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA)‐co‐ethylene dimethacrylate (EDMA)) monolithic support was prepared under UV irradiation at the wavelength of 365 nm with monomer HEMA, crosslinker EDMA and 2,2‐dimethoxy‐2‐phenylacetophenone as photoinitiator in 1‐decanol solution, which provides good biocompatibility and permeability for biomolecule analysis. To introduce chelating ligands, such as phosphate groups, on the pore surface of monolith for metal ion immobilization, photografting of ethylene glycol methacrylate phosphate with benzophenone as the photoinitiator was performed at 254 nm for 300 s. The grafting process and metal ion immobilization can be monitored by measuring the electroosmotic flow produced by the modified monolith, providing a quantitative evaluation of post‐modification. This new method for the preparation of Zr4+‐IMAC monolith simplifies the optimization of monolith preparation and avoids the time‐consuming chemical modification process. Additionally, advantages include facile preparation in microdevices, easy regenerability and good reproducibility. After optimization, the microchip‐based Zr4+‐IMAC monolith was used for phosphopeptide analysis and showed good selectivity in phosphopeptide enrichment with matrix‐assisted laser desorption ionization mass spectrometry detection.
Habitat suitability and nest survival of white‐headed woodpeckers in unburned forests of Oregon
Authors: Hollenbeck Jeff P. , Saab Victoria A. , Frenzel Richard W.
Published: June 2011

We evaluated habitat suitability and nest survival of breeding white‐headed woodpeckers (Picoides albolarvatus) in unburned forests of central Oregon, USA. Daily nest‐survival rate was positively related to maximum daily temperature during the nest interval and to density of large‐diameter trees surrounding the nest tree. We developed a niche‐based habitat suitability model (partitioned Mahalanobis distance) for nesting white‐headed woodpeckers using remotely sensed data. Along with low elevation, high density of large trees, and low slope, our habitat suitability model suggested that interspersion–juxtaposition of low‐ and high‐canopy cover ponderosa pine (Pinus ponderosa) patches was important for nest‐site suitability. Cross‐validation suggested the model performed adequately for management planning at a scale >1 ha. Evaluation of mapped habitat suitability index (HSI) suggested that the maximum predictive gain (HSI = 0.36), where the number of nest locations are maximized in the smallest proportion of the modeled landscape, provided an objective initial threshold for identification of suitable habitat. However, managers can choose the threshold HSI most appropriate for their purposes (e.g., locating regions of low–moderate suitability that have potential for habitat restoration). Consequently, our habitat suitability model may be useful for managing dry coniferous forests for white‐headed woodpeckers in central Oregon; however, model validation is necessary before our model could be applied to other locations. © 2011 The Wildlife Society.
Cochlear reimplantation with same device: Surgical and audiologic results
Authors: van der Marel Kim S. , Briaire Jeroen J. , Verbist Berit M. , Joemai Raoul M.S. , Boermans Peter‐Paul B.M. , Peek Ferdinand A.W. , Frijns Johan H.M.
Published: June 2011

Objectives/Hypothesis:

To study to what extent it is possible to achieve identical insertion depths and to maintain the same performance after cochlear reimplantation.

Study Design:

Outcome research on a retrospective case series in a tertiary university referral center.

Methods:

Data were collected for 12 adults and three children who underwent reimplantation during the last 3 years with a new HiRes90K device with HiFocus 1J electrode owing to failure of the feed‐through seal. Multislice computed tomography scans were used to compare positions of the original and newly placed electrode arrays. The speech‐perception scores on a consonant‐vowel‐consonant word test before and after reimplantation were compared.

Results:

All reimplantations were successfully performed by two experienced cochlear implantation surgeons, and no complications were observed. Postoperative imaging showed that the average displacement of the new implant was only 0.59 mm. Reactivation of the implant gave immediate open set speech understanding in all patients, and speech perception rapidly returned to the previous level obtained with the original implant within weeks; it was even significantly better at the 3‐month follow‐up. No relation was found between changes in performance and the amount of displacement of the electrode array.

Conclusions:

After cochlear reimplantation with the same device, electrode‐array position can be accurately replicated and speech perception can be regained or even improved within weeks.
Follow‐up after gamma knife radiosurgery for vestibular schwannomas
Authors: Timmer Ferdinand C.A. , Hanssens Patrick E.J. , van Haren Anniek E. , van Overbeeke Jakobus J. , Mulder Jef J.S. , Cremers Cor W.R.J. , Graamans Kees
Published: June 2011

Objectives/Hypothesis:

A prospective long‐term follow‐up study was conducted to evaluate the results of gamma knife radiosurgery (GKRS) for vestibular schwannoma (VS) patients. Both axial and volumetric measurements are used to determine tumor size during follow‐up.

Study Design:

Individual prospective cohort study.

Methods:

A total of 110 VS patients were referred for radiosurgery between 2002 and 2007. All patients were treated with a Leksell 4C gamma knife. There were 12.5 to 13 Gy prescribed to the isodose covering 90% of the tumor volume. The resulting marginal dose was on average 11.0 Gy (range, 9.3–12.5 Gy). Tumor size and tumor volume were determined before and after gamma knife treatment at regular intervals. The minimal follow‐up period was 2 years.

Results:

There were 100 patients included in the study. Eight patients needed additional treatment after a mean follow‐up period of 38 months. One patient experienced a temporary facial nerve deficit. No growth pattern could be recognized for tumor growth after GKRS. Based on the measurements of the largest extrameatal diameter, the tumor size would have decreased or remained stable in 94%. Based on volumetric measurement, the tumor size was decreased or remained stable in 79%.

Conclusions:

High tumor control and low complication rates make GKRS a good therapy for VS. If tumor growth occurs after GKRS, a conservative management can be considered because continued tumor growth is uncertain. The extrameatal diameter on axial magnetic resonance imaging seems to be a reliable parameter of the size of a VS. Volumetry is the preferred method to assess the dimensions of a VS, although the consequences of strong volumetric increase, especially in small tumors, can be different depending on individual differences in tumor size.
Four‐handed, two‐surgeon microsurgery in neurotology
Authors: Arriaga Moisés A. , Scrantz Kelley
Published: June 2011

Introduction:

Since the early 1960s, microsurgical removal has been the standard for curative treatment of vestibular schwannomas and neurotologic skull base lesions. The narrow operative corridor with only one surgeon actively operating sometimes interferes with simultaneous application of standard surgical principles such as suction, counter tension, and dissection and makes attempts at “co‐surgery” into “sequential” surgery. Surgical efficiency is often delayed by the need to change surgical instruments and reorient the surgical field.

Methods:

In this four‐handed technique, the microscope is arranged with binocular microscope heads and the surgeons facing each other at the head of the patient and operating simultaneously.

Results:

Since 2006, the authors have operated 97 lesions using the four‐handed technique. The distinct visualization advantage of the 180° binocular arrangement over use of a side arm is that both surgeons have the same stereoscopic perspective. Specific ergonomic advantages were identified for rapid debulking in large tumors, simultaneous neurologic mapping for sharp facial nerve dissection, counter traction for tumor dissection, neurologic tissue retraction/protection for safe bipolar cautery, and real‐time intraoperative consultation/collaboration.

Conclusions:

Specific technical and microscope arrangements are necessary to utilize the four‐handed technique; however, distinct advantages in tissue handling and surgical efficiency are facilitated.
Nasal tip projection and facial attractiveness
Authors: Devcic Zlatko , Rayikanti Benjamin A. , Hevia Jesse P. , Popenko Natalie A. , Karimi Koohyar , Wong Brian J.F.
Published: June 2011

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Six nasal tip projection (NTP) ratios from Goode, Simons, Baum, Powell, and Crumley guide clinical and academic practice on quantifying NTP, but none have been empirically correlated with facial attractiveness. This study's objectives were to determine: 1) if there is a correlation between these ratios and facial attractiveness; and 2) which of the six ratios has the greatest linkage to overall facial attractiveness.

Study Design:

Basic research study.

Methods:

There were 300 digital portraits of women (ages 18–25 years) randomly paired and morphed to create 300 synthetic lateral facial images rated by 78 raters in the community. NTP ratios were measured in each portrait.

Results:

None of the ratios correlated with facial attractiveness. For the Baum, Powell, and Simons ratio, facial attractiveness increased as NTP deviated 1 and 2 standard deviations from the ideal, whereas facial attractiveness decreased as NTP deviated from the Goode and Crumley ideal ratios. The most attractive faces had NTP ratios consistent with previous expert opinion findings.

Conclusions:

To our knowledge, this is the first study to empirically correlate these six landmark NTP ratios with facial attractiveness. Although there was no correlation with any of the six ratios, the ideal ratios proposed by Goode and Crumley impacted facial aesthetics the most. Although the ideal ratios are useful in establishing rhinoplasty guidelines, they should only be used as a part of the management in achieving an aesthetic face on the whole, as they may not be robust enough to correlate with overall facial attractiveness.
Outcomes and adverse events of enlarged tracheoesophageal puncture after total laryngectomy
Authors: Hutcheson Katherine A. , Lewin Jan S. , Sturgis Erich M. , Risser Jan
Published: June 2011

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Enlargement of the tracheoesophageal puncture (TEP) results in aspiration around the voice prosthesis (VP) and may lead to pneumonia. The primary objective was to summarize control of leakage around the VP after conservative management of enlarged TEP.

Study Design:

Retrospective cohort study.

Methods:

This 5‐year cohort included 194 patients who underwent total laryngectomy (with or without pharyngectomy) and TEP at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. Control of leakage around the VP was analyzed at last follow‐up after enlarged TEP. Adverse events were compared in patients with and without enlarged TEP.

Results:

The incidence of enlarged TEP was 18.6% (36 of 194, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 13.0%‐24.1%). Conservative methods commonly attempted in lieu of complete TEP closure included placement of an enlarged‐flange VP (34 of 36, 94%), temporary VP removal (14 of 36, 39%), and TEP‐site injection (8 of 36, 22%). At last follow‐up, conservative methods controlled leakage around the VP in 81% (29 of 36) of patients. Only two patients required complete TEP closure due to persistent leakage after enlarged TEP. Unresolved leakage was more common in patients with recurrent cancer after laryngectomy (P = .081) and irregular TEP contour (P = .003). Relative to controls without TEP enlargement, patients with enlarged TEP had a three‐fold higher risk of pneumonia (relative risk: 3.4, 95% CI: 1.9–6.2) and aspiration of the prosthesis (relative risk: 3.3, 95% CI: 0.8–14.1).

Conclusions:

Although the rate of enlarged TEP is relatively low, the complication significantly elevates risk of pneumonia. Prosthetic leakage related to TEP enlargement can often be managed conservatively to avoid complete closure of the TEP.
Olfactory outcomes after endoscopic transsphenoidal pituitary surgery
Authors: Rotenberg Brian W. , Saunders Samantha , Duggal Neil
Published: June 2011

Background:

Olfaction has been demonstrated to have a great impact on patients' lives. Transsphenoidal endoscopic pituitary surgery is associated with potentially significant damage to olfactory tissues, but to date this issue has been only poorly documented in the literature.

Study Design:

Prospective cohort study comparing olfactory outcomes pre‐ and postpituitary surgery.

Method:

Patients were administered the University of Pennsylvania Smell Identification Test (UPSIT) preoperatively and again at 6 months postoperatively. The endoscopic transsphenoidal pituitary surgery was carried out using a full middle turbinate preservation protocol. A Hadad‐Bassagasteguy (HB) vascularized septal flap was raised in each case. Secondary outcomes included Lund‐Kennedy endoscopy scores (LKES) and patient self‐report of olfactory disturbance. The results were analysed using a paired t‐tests.

Results:

Seventeen patients met inclusion criteria for the study. Mean preoperative UPSIT value was 37.2 (normosmia), and mean postoperative UPSIT value was 30.8 (moderate hyposmia) (P < .001). All patients were fully healed with normal LKES scores by 6 months. All patients complained of their olfactory dysfunction.

Conclusions:

This study is the first to describe postoperative olfactory perturbations suffered by patients undergoing endoscopic transsphenoidal pituitary surgery. We hypothesize that olfactory impairment results from use of the HB flap. We recommend that the possibility of permanent olfactory changes be added to routine patient counseling and consent for this procedure, and that HB flaps be raised judiciously during trannssphenoidal endoscopic procedures.
Extrusion of Nanocellulose‐Reinforced Nanocomposites Using the Dispersed Nano‐Objects Protective Encapsulation (DOPE) Process
Authors: Lemahieu Louis , Bras Julien , Tiquet Pascal , Augier Sylvain , Dufresne Alain
Published: June 2011

Cross‐linked alginate capsules a few millimeters in diameter have been formed by immersion in a CaCl2 solution. When adding cellulose whiskers or microfibrillated cellulose to the aqueous alginate solution, nanocomposite capsules containing 40 wt.% cellulosic nanoparticles were obtained. The morphology and compression strength of these capsules were investigated by microscopic observations and crushing tests, respectively. The capsules were extruded with a thermoplastic polymer. Visual inspection of the ensuing films shows a nonhomogeneous dispersion of the capsules that kept their integrity after extrusion. It results in preliminary disappointing mechanical properties of the composite films. However, further investigation is in progress to optimize this simple and ecofriendly process.

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Remarkable Change in Fluorescence Emission of Poly(diphenylacetylene) Film via in situ Desilylation Reaction: Correlation with Variations in Microporous Structure, Chain Conformation, and Lamellar Layer Distance
Authors: Lee Wang‐Eun , Han Dong‐Cheul , Han Dong‐Hee , Choi Heung‐Jin , Sakaguchi Toshikazu , Lee Chang‐Lyoul , Kwak Giseop
Published: June 2011

Fluorescence (FL) emission properties, microporous structures, energy‐minimized chain conformations, and lamellar layer structures of the silicon‐containing poly(diphenylacetylene) derivative of p‐PTMSDPA before and after desilylation were investigated. The nitrogen‐adsorption isotherms of p‐PTMSDPA film before and after desilylation were typical of type I, indicating microporous structures. The BET surface area and pore volume of the p‐PTMSDPA film were significantly reduced after the desilylation reaction, simultaneously, its FL emission intensity remarkably decreased. The theoretical calculation on both model compounds of p‐PTMSDPA and its desilylated polymer, PDPA, showed a remarkable difference in chain conformation: The side phenyl rings of p‐PTMSDPA are discontinuously arranged in a zig‐zag pattern, while the PDPA is continuously coiled in a helical manner. The lamellar layer distance (LLD) in the p‐PTMSDPA film significantly decreased after the desilylation reaction.

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“Click” Synthesis of Fatty Acid Derivatives as Fast‐Degrading Polyanhydride Precursors
Authors: Lluch Cristina , Lligadas Gerard , Ronda Joan C. , Galià Marina , Cadiz Virginia
Published: June 2011

Fast‐degrading linear and branched polyanhydrides are obtained by melt‐condensation of novel di‐ and tri‐carboxylic acid monomers based on oleic and undecylenic acid synthesized using photoinitiated thiol‐ene click chemistry. 1H NMR spectroscopy, size exclusion chromatography, differential scanning calorimetry, thermogravimetric analysis, and FT‐IR spectroscopy have been used to fully characterize these polymers. The hydrolytic degradation of these polymers was studied by means of weight loss, anhydride bond loss, and changes in molecular weight, showing fast degrading properties. Drug release studies from the synthesized polyanhydrides have also been conducted, using rhodamine B as a hydrophobic model drug, to evaluate the potential of these polymers in biomedical applications.

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Continuous Production of Functionalized Polymer Particles Employing the Phase Separation in Polymer Blend Films
Authors: Park ChooJin , Hyun Dong Choon , Lim Min‐Cheol , Kim Su‐Jeong , Kim Young‐Rok , Paik Hyun‐Jong , Jeong Unyong
Published: June 2011

This study reports a continuous prepartion of spherical or hemispherical polymer particles simply utilizing the phase separation in polymer blend films during the coating process. We took an advantage of the strong phase separation between a water‐soluble crystalline polymer as a matrix and hydrophobic polymers as minor components. We demonstrated the prepartion of water‐soluble polystyrene (PS) particles, nitrilotriacetic acid (NTA)‐functionalized PS particles for protein separation, and semiconducting poly(3‐hexylthiophene) (P3HT) particles. The sizes of the particles could be controlled by adjusting the film thickness and weight fraction of the minor component polymers in the blend film. It provides a simple facile way to prepare polymer particles in a continous process.

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Step‐Growth Radical Addition‐Coupling Polymerization (RACP) for Synthesis of Alternating Copolymers
Authors: Zhang Chengyu , Wang Qi
Published: June 2011

We report a new type of step‐growth radical addition‐coupling polymerization (RACP) involving consecutive addition of carbon‐centered radical derived from α,α′‐dibromo dibasic ester to NO double bond of C‐nitroso compound followed by cross‐coupling of carbon‐centered radical and in situ formed nitroxyl radical, which produces alternating copolymers with high molecular weight and unimodal molecular weight distribution from saturated and unsaturated monomers.

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Preparation for the end of life in patients with advanced cancer and association with communication with professional caregivers
Authors: Wentlandt Kirsten , Burman Debika , Swami Nadia , Hales Sarah , Rydall Anne , Rodin Gary , Lo Christopher , Zimmermann Camilla
Published: June 2011

Objective

Previous studies regarding patients' end of life (EOL) preparation have focused mainly on practical tasks, such as advance directives. In this study, we investigate the relational and personal aspects of EOL preparation, using a patient‐completed questionnaire, and examine associations with clinician–patient communication (CPC) and other variables.

Methods

Patients with advanced cancer but with good performance status were recruited from 24 medical oncology clinics, to participate in a cluster‐randomised controlled trial of early palliative care intervention. Measures included the Quality of Life at the End of Life preparation for EOL subscale, and measures of CPC, functional status, comorbidity, spiritual well‐being and symptom severity. Using chi‐squared tests, t‐tests and multivariate regression analyses, we examined the variables associated with preparation for EOL. We also examined the frequency distributions of individual EOL preparation items and used logistic regression to examine their associations with adequacy of CPC.

Results

In the 469 patients, characteristics associated with better EOL preparation were better CPC, older age, living alone, less symptom burden and better spiritual well‐being. Thirty‐one per cent agreed that they worried ‘quite a bit’ or ‘completely’ about their family's preparation to cope with the future, and 27% agreed that they would be a burden to their family. All preparation items except regrets about life were associated with adequacy of communication.

Conclusions

A substantial minority of patients with advanced cancer but with good performance status are concerned about EOL preparation, particularly in relation to their families. Better CPC may help patients prepare not only practically but also personally and socially in relation to the dying process and the welfare of their families. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Understanding sleep disturbances in African‐American breast cancer survivors: a pilot study
Authors: Taylor Teletia R. , Huntley Edward D. , Makambi Kepher , Sween Jennifer , Adams‐Campbell Lucile L. , Frederick Wayne , Mellman Thomas A.
Published: June 2011

Objectives

The goals of this study were (i) to report the prevalence and nature of sleep disturbances, as determined by clinically significant insomnia symptoms, in a sample of African‐American breast cancer survivors; (ii) to assess the extent to which intrusive thoughts about breast cancer and fear of recurrence contributes to insomnia symptoms; and (iii) to assess the extent to which insomnia symptoms contribute to fatigue.

Methods

African‐American breast cancer survivors completed surveys pertaining to demographics, medical history, insomnia symptoms, and intrusive thoughts about breast cancer, fear of cancer recurrence, and fatigue. Hierarchical regression models were performed to investigate the degree to which intrusive thoughts and concerns of cancer recurrence accounted for the severity of insomnia symptoms and insomnia symptom severity's association with fatigue.

Results

Forty‐three percent of the sample was classified as having clinically significant sleep disturbances. The most commonly identified sleep complaints among participants were sleep maintenance, dissatisfaction with sleep, difficulty falling asleep, and early morning awakenings. Intrusive thoughts about breast cancer were a significant predictor of insomnia symptoms accounting for 12% of the variance in insomnia symptom severity. After adjusting for covariates, it was found that insomnia symptom severity was independently associated with fatigue accounting for 8% of variance.

Conclusions

A moderate proportion of African‐American breast cancer survivors reported significant problems with sleep. Sleep disturbance was influenced by intrusive thoughts about breast cancer, and fatigue was associated with the severity of participants' insomnia symptoms. This study provides new information about sleep‐related issues in African‐American breast cancer survivors. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Calculation of pKa in proteins with the microenvironment modulated‐screened coulomb potential
Authors: Shan Jufang , Mehler Ernest L.
Published: June 2011

The MM‐SCP has been applied to predict pKa values of titratable residues in wild type and mutants of staphylococcal nuclease (SNase). The calculations were based on crystal structures made available by the Garcia‐Moreno Laboratory. In the mutants, mostly deeply buried hydrophobic residues were replaced with ionizable residues, and thus their pKa values could be measured and calculated using various methods. The data set used here consisted of a set of WT SNase for which His pKa at several ionic strengths had been measured, a set of mutants for which measured pKa were available and a set of 11 mutants for which the measured pKa were not known at the time of calculation. For this latter set, blind predictions were submitted to the protein pKa cooperative, 2009 workshop at Telluride, where the results of the blind predictions were discussed (the RMSD of the submitted set was 1.10 pH units). The calculations on the structures with known pKa indicated that in addition to weaknesses of the method, structural issues were observed that led to larger errors (>1) in pKa predictions. For example, different crystallographic conditions or steric clashes can lead to differences in the local environment around the titratable residue, which can produce large differences in the calculated pKa. To gain further insight into the reliability of the MM‐SCP, pKa of an extended set of 54 proteins belonging to several structural classes were carried out. Here some initial results from this study are reported to help place the SNase results in the appropriate context. Proteins 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
LARGE WOODY DEBRIS IN URBAN STREAM CHANNELS: REDEFINING THE PROBLEM
Authors: Lassettre N. S. , Kondolf G. M.
Published: June 2011

Large woody debris (LWD) is an important ecological element in rivers and streams. Despite its importance, LWD is often removed from urban stream channels for flood control or road maintenance purposes, an approach with high economic and ecological costs and one that is largely unsuccessful. We propose an approach to conserve LWD in channels by modifying infrastructure (culverts and bridges) to allow LWD passage, maintaining aquatic habitat and reducing flooding and road maintenance costs. In Soquel Creek (California, USA), which has a history of LWD‐related flooding, we compared long‐term LWD management costs of historical, current and a LWD‐passing approach whereby infrastructure is enlarged to accommodate LWD passage downstream. We estimated costs of infrastructure replacement, programmatic flood control (LWD removal), LWD‐related flood damage and lost aquatic habitat. The amount of lost aquatic habitat was determined by comparing LWD loading (pieces m−1) in Soquel Creek (0.007 pieces m−1) to nearby unmanaged streams (0.054 to 0.106 pieces m−1). Estimated costs of infrastructure able to pass LWD were nearly double that of historical costs but comparable to current costs. The LWD‐passing approach was comparable to removal approaches in the short term (1 to 50 years) but much less in the long term (51 to 100 years), as expenditures in infrastructure replacement to accommodate LWD yielded reductions in flooding costs and habitat loss. Given the urgency to maintain and restore aquatic habitat, the proposed approach may be broadly applicable. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.