bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Different patterns of bone fixation with hydroxyapatite and resorbable CaP coatings in the rabbit tibia at 6, 12, and 52 weeks
Authors: Reigstad Ole , Johansson Carina , Stenport Victoria , Wennerberg Ann , Reigstad Astor , Røkkum Magne
Published: June 2011

Applying bioactive coatings on orthopedic implants can increase the fixation and long‐term implant survival. In our study, we compared a resorbable electrochemically deposited calcium phosphate coating (Bonit®) to a thin (40 μm) plasma‐sprayed hydroxyapatite (HA) coating, applied on grit‐blasted screw‐shaped Ti‐6Al‐4V implants in the cortical region of rabbit tibia, implanted for 6, 12, and 52 weeks. The removal torque results demonstrated stronger bone‐to‐implant fixation for the HA than Bonit‐coated screws at 6 and 12 weeks. After 52 weeks, the fixation was in favor of the Bonit‐coated screws, but the difference was statistically insignificant. Coat flaking and delamination of the HA with multinucleated giant cell activity and bone resorption observed histologically seemed to preclude any significant increase in fixation comparing the HA implants at 6 versus 12 weeks and 12 versus 52 weeks. The Bonit‐coated implants exhibited increasing fixation from 6 to 12 weeks and from 12 to 52 weeks, and the coat was resorbed within 6 weeks, with minimal activity of multinucleated giant cells or bone resorption. A different fixation pattern was observed for the two coatings with a sharper but time limited increase in fixation for the HA‐coated screws, and a slower but more steadily increasing fixation pattern for the Bonit‐coated screws. The side effects were more serious for the HA coating and limiting the expected increase in fixation with time. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2011.
Indexing molecules with chemical graph identifiers
Authors: Gregori‐Puigjané Elisabet , Garriga‐Sust Rut , Mestres Jordi
Published: June 2011

Fast and robust algorithms for indexing molecules have been historically considered strategic tools for the management and storage of large chemical libraries. This work introduces a modified and further extended version of the molecular equivalence number naming adaptation of the Morgan algorithm (J Chem Inf Comput Sci 2001, 41, 181‐185) for the generation of a chemical graph identifier (CGI). This new version corrects for the collisions recognized in the original adaptation and includes the ability to deal with graph canonicalization, ensembles (salts), and isomerism (tautomerism, regioisomerism, optical isomerism, and geometrical isomerism) in a flexible manner. Validation of the current CGI implementation was performed on the open NCI database and the drug‐like subset of the ZINC database containing 260,071 and 5,348,089 structures, respectively. The results were compared with those obtained with some of the most widely used indexing codes, such as the CACTVS hash code and the new InChIKey. The analyses emphasize the fact that compound management activities, like duplicate analysis of chemical libraries, are sensitive to the exact definition of compound uniqueness and thus still depend, to a minor extent, on the type and flexibility of the molecular index being used. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem, 2011
Combining a polarizable force‐field and a coarse‐grained polarizable solvent model. II. Accounting for hydrophobic effects
Authors: Masella Michel , Borgis Daniel , Cuniasse Philippe
Published: June 2011

A revised and improved version of our efficient polarizable force‐field/coarse grained solvent combined approach (Masella, Borgis, and Cuniasse, J. Comput. Chem. 2008, 29, 1707) is described. The polarizable pseudo‐particle solvent model represents the macroscopic solvent polarization by induced dipoles placed on mobile pseudo‐particles. In this study, we propose a new formulation of the energy term handling the nonelectrostatic interactions among the pseudo‐particles. This term is now able to reproduce the energetic and structural response of liquid water due to the presence of a hydrophobic spherical cavity. Accordingly, the parameters of the energy term handling the nonpolar solute/solvent interactions have been refined to reproduce the free‐solvation energy of small solutes, based on a standard thermodynamic integration scheme. The reliability of this new approach has been checked for the properties of solvated methane and of the solvated methane dimer, as well as by performing 10 × 20 ns molecular dynamics (MD) trajectories for three solvated proteins. A long‐time stability of the protein structures along the trajectories is observed. Moreover, our method still provides a measure of the protein solvation thermodynamic at the same accuracy as standard Poisson–Boltzman continuum methods. These results show the relevance of our approach and its applicability to massively coupled MD schemes to accurately and intensively explore solvated macromolecule potential energy surfaces. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem, 2011
Gradients for configuration interaction energies with spin‐orbit coupling in a semiempirical framework
Authors: Granucci Giovanni , Persico Maurizio
Published: June 2011

We present a method for the analytical evaluation of the molecular energy gradient for a semiempirical configuration interaction (CI) wavefunction, taking into account the spin‐orbit coupling. We show how to proceed in the simplest case where all the wavefunctions belonging to the CI subspace considered are mixed by the spin‐orbit interaction, and we develop an original procedure for the more complex case where only a limited number of CI eigenvectors of the spin‐free Hamiltonian are mixed. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem, 2011
Theoretical study on the unimolecular decomposition of thiophenol
Authors: Al‐Muhtaseb Ala'a H. , Altarawneh Mohammednoor , Almatarneh Mansour H. , Poirier Raymond A. , Assaf Niveen W.
Published: June 2011

The potential energy surface for the unimolecular decomposition of thiophenol (C6H5SH) is mapped out at two theoretical levels; BB1K/GTlarge and QCISD(T)/6‐311+G(2d,p)//MP2/6‐31G(d,p). Calculated reaction rate constants at the high pressure limit indicate that the major initial channel is the formation of C6H6S at all temperatures. Above 1000 K, the contribution from direct fission of the SH bond becomes important. Other decomposition channels, including expulsion of H2 and H2S are of negligible importance. The formation of C6H6S is predicted to be strong‐pressure dependent above 900 K. Further decomposition of C6H6S produces CS and C5H6. Overall, despite the significant difference in bond dissociation, i.e., 8‐9 kcal/mol between the SH bond in thiophenol and the OH bond in phenol, H migration at the ortho position in the two molecules represents the most accessible initial channel. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem, 2011
The psychotherapy of psychotherapists
Authors: Geller Jesse D.
Published: June 2011

This article introduces a special issue of the Journal of Clinical Psychology: In Session that provides 6 psychologists' narrative accounts of their own personal therapies and a practice‐friendly research review on the characteristics of therapist‐patients and their own treatment experiences. In response to a standard set of questions, highly experienced psychotherapists hailing from diverse theoretical commitments wrote the accounts. Their accounts illuminate subtle nuances of the therapeutic relationship and treatment outcome, perhaps more fully than other sources of data. Much of value can be learned from these essays and the research findings about the linkages between receiving and conducting psychotherapy and about the technical and emotional challenges that arise when treating a patient who shares the same profession. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol: In Session 67:1–7, 2011.
My experience with psychotherapy, existential analysis and Jungian analysis: Rollo May and beyond
Authors: Keddy Philip
Published: June 2011

This article describes my initial psychotherapy experience with a psychologist who combined a client‐centered/rational‐emotive approach, my existential analysis with Rollo May, and then concludes briefly portraying my current Jungian analysis. I explain how I came to each of these experiences, what I learned from them, and the limitations I have recognized in them. I elaborate on the existential analysis with Rollo May, as it marked a major turning point in my life and thinking. I have been able to describe that experience with the benefit of hindsight, which I do not have with the Jungian analysis. In closing, I offer some suggestions about the role of therapy/analysis in the training of the psychotherapist. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol: In Session 67:1–12, 2011.
A case of isolated congenital ductus arteriosus aneurysm detected by fetal echocardiography at 38 weeks of gestation
Authors: Oh Sae Jeong , Jeung In Cheul
Published: June 2011

A 30 year‐old pregnant woman (G1P0) was diagnosed with fetal ductus arteriosus aneurysm (DAA) at 38 weeks of gestation. The three‐vessel view of the heart and the sagittal view of the ductal arch showed a 12‐mm fusiform dilatation of the ductus arteriosus. Turbulent flow was detected in it by color Doppler. DAA was confirmed by postnatal echocardiography within 24 hours after birth and it spontaneously closed in the neonatal period. Congenital DAA, usually developed in the third trimester, is potentially fatal due to the possible complications such as spontaneous rupture, dissection, and thromboembolism. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound, 2011
Contrast‐enhanced sonographic diagnosis of unsuspected internal iliac vein thrombosis
Authors: de Perrot Thomas , Righini Marc , Bounameaux Henri , Poletti Pierre‐Alexandre
Published: June 2011

We report a rare case of an isolated and unsuspected thrombosis in the right internal iliac vein. The presentation was atypical with regard to the clinical manifestations and the thrombus location. The patient was admitted for an acute abdominal pain in the right iliac fossa. The thrombosis was suspected on the basis of a portal‐phase contrast‐enhanced abdominal CT but the lack of a delayed phase did not allow confirmation. Contrast‐enhanced ultrasound confirmed the diagnosis, by displaying a well‐defined filling defect. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound, 2011;
Cesarean scar pregnancy: A rare cause of uterine arteriovenous malformation
Authors: Akbayir Ozgur , Gedikbasi Ali , Akyol Alpaslan , Ucar Adem , Saygi‐Ozyurt Sezin , Gulkilik Ahmet
Published: June 2011

A 38‐year‐old gravida 4, para 2 woman with a history of two Cesarean sections and one curettage was referred to our hospital, because of painless vaginal bleeding and 6 weeks + 2 days of amenorrhea. The first diagnosis was Cesarean scar pregnancy, managed with methotrexate. Subsequently, an arteriovenous malformation developed, which was diagnosed with color Doppler imaging. The diagnosis was confirmed with angiography. Successful bilateral uterine artery embolization was performed with ethylene vinyl alcohol copolymer (Onyx), n‐butyl‐2‐cyanoacrylate (Histoacryl), and gelfoam. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound, 2011
Synaptic failure and adenosine triphosphate imbalance induced by amyloid‐β aggregates are prevented by blueberry‐enriched polyphenols extract
Authors: Fuentealba Jorge , Dibarrart Andrea J. , Fuentes‐Fuentes Maria Cecilia , Saez‐Orellana Francisco , Quiñones Karin , Guzmán Leonardo , Perez Claudia , Becerra Jose , Aguayo Luis G.
Published: June 2011

The potential neuroprotective properties of fruits have been widely recognized. In this study, we evaluated the protective properties of a blueberry extract (BB‐4), rich in polyphenols, in a neurodegenerative model induced by amyloid‐β peptide (Aβ). Chronic treatment with Aβ drastically reduced synaptic transmission and the extent of secretory vesicles, which were recovered partially with BB‐4. Also, the extract recovered Ca2+ transients in hippocampal neurons preincubated with Aβ (0.5 and 5 μM) by about 25% ± 3% and 30% ± 2, respectively. In this work, we demonstrate a novel effect of the BB‐4 extract on Aβ‐induced ATP leakage, in which this extract was able to antagonize the acute ATP leakage but not chronic ATP depletion. On the other hand, BB‐4 prevented the uncoupling of mitochondrial function induced by FCCP by about 85%, but it was unable to modify the uncoupling induced by Aβ. The present results strongly indicate that BB‐4 plays a role in the process of Aβ aggregation by reducing the toxic species (i.e., 40 kDa). These findings suggest that a blueberry extract can protect neuronal tissue from Aβ toxicity mainly through its antiaggregation property, and its antioxidant properties and mitochondrial membrane potential capacities are secondary mechanisms important in chronic stages. Our work suggests that BB‐4 could be an important nutritional complement to neuronal health as well as a potential nutraceutical formulation useful as a dietary supplement in the elderly. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Brain‐derived neurotrophic factor modulates antiretroviral‐induced mechanical allodynia in the mouse
Authors: Renn Cynthia L. , Leitch Carmen C. , Lessans Sherrie , Rhee Peter , McGuire W. Cameron , Smith Barbara A. , Traub Richard J. , Dorsey Susan G.
Published: June 2011

Nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs) are key components of HIV/AIDS treatment to reduce viral load. However, these drugs can induce chronic neuropathic pain, leading to increased morbidity in HIV patients. This study examines the role of brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the spinal dorsal horn (SDH) in development of mechanical allodynia in male C57BL/6J mice treated with the NRTI stavudine (d4T). After d4T administration, mice developed increased neuronal activity and BDNF expression in the SDH and hind paw mechanical allodynia that was exacerbated by intrathecal BDNF administration. Intrathecal BDNF alone also increased neuronal activity and caused mechanical allodynia. Because excess BDNF amplified d4T‐induced mechanical allodynia and neuronal activity, the impact of decreasing BDNF in the SDH was investigated. After d4T, BDNF heterozygous mice were less allodynic than wild‐type littermates, which was negated by intrathecal BDNF administration. Finally, pretreatment with intrathecal trkB‐Fc chimera prior to d4T or administration of the tyrosine kinase inhibitor K252a 3 days after d4T blocked BDNF‐mediated signaling, significantly attenuated the development of mechanical allodynia (trkB‐Fc), and decreased neuronal activity (trkB‐Fc and K252a). Taken together, these findings provide evidence that BDNF in the SDH contributes to the development of NRTI‐induced painful peripheral neuropathy and may represent a new therapeutic opportunity. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Influence of cloudiness on sunshine duration
Authors: Matuszko Dorota
Published: June 2011

This paper analyzes the influence of cloudiness and cloud genera on sunshine duration based on a very long (1884–2007) homogeneous daily nephological and sunshine duration data series for the City of Krakow. Quadratic regression was used to describe the relationship between sunshine duration and cloudiness. It has been shown that cloudiness affects sunshine duration the most in June and July, and the least in December, January and February. High clouds (Cirrus, Cirrostratus, Cirrocumulus) do not interrupt the recording of sunshine duration even when they completely cover the sky. Layered clouds such as Stratus and Nimbostratus, on the other hand, do not transmit solar radiation at all. The degree of influence of different cloud genera on sunshine duration changes very little from season to season and with respect to the position of the Sun over the horizon. When the Sun is positioned higher over the horizon, clouds are less able to weaken solar radiation, resulting in larger sunshine duration values. This is especially true with respect to the following clouds: Cirrus, Cirrostratus and Cumulus. It has been shown that daytime sunshine duration patterns can be a very good indicator of cloud type and cloudiness variability. Copyright © 2011 Royal Meteorological Society
Characteristic features of hourly rainfall in India
Authors: Deshpande N. R. , Kulkarni A. , Krishna Kumar K.
Published: June 2011

Hourly rainfall data recorded at 72 Self Recording Raingauge Stations (SRRG) for the period 1969–2006 are utilized to study the characteristic features of hourly rainfall and diurnal variations of rainfall in India. Temporal changes in the short duration (less than 12 h) rainfall extremes are examined. Time distribution of a heavy rain spell of 24 h duration, which is an important component in water resources management and flood control studies, is analysed. Different aspects of hourly rainfall such as, average number of rain hours in a year, empirical probability distribution functions have also been examined. Analysis indicates, many stations in India have recorded more than 10 cm of rainfall in an hour's duration. Such stations are located along the west coast, foothills of Himalayas and along the tracks of monsoon disturbances. Extreme rainfall events of various duration (3–12 h) show increasing trends, significant at 5% level, at many stations located in central India and peninsular India except for southern part of west coast. Time distribution of hourly rainfall shows that, on average, 25% of the daily rainfall can be received in just 3 h, while 80% can occur in 12 h during the heavy rain spells of 24‐h duration. Copyright © 2011 Royal Meteorological Society
Comparative analysis of serum proteomes of degenerative scoliosis
Authors: Zhu Yong , Han Shijie , Zhao Hong , Liang Jinqian , Zhai Jiliang , Wu Zhihong , Qiu Guixing
Published: June 2011

Degenerative scoliosis (DS) is an important degenerative lumbar disease causing spinal dysfunction and affecting the quality of life of the elderly, and is associated not only with severe back or leg pain but also with complicated surgical outcomes. The pathogenesis of DS is still unknown. Therefore, it is very important to ascertain the etiology of degenerative scoliosis and establish related molecular markers predicting and controlling the scoliosis. For the first time, we used two‐dimensional fluorescence DIGE to compare the serum proteome profiles of 12 DS patients and controls. Proteins found to be differentially expressed were identified by MALDI‐TOF mass spectrometric analysis, coupled with database interrogation. Eleven spots that were differentially expressed in the sera of DS patients were found, and eight gene products were identified among these spots. Clusterin, CLU cDNA FLJ57622, ALB cDNA FLJ50830, Hypothetical short protein, HLA‐A MHC class 1 antigen. (Fragment), ALB 23 kDa protein, Isoform 1 of G protein‐regulated inducer of neurite outgrowth 1 (GPRIN I)and Ficolin‐3 were down‐regulated in the sera of DS patients. The decreased levels of Clusterin and Ficolin‐3 were confirmed by Western blot. The information obtained with this proteomic analysis will be very useful in understanding the pathophysiology of DS as well as in finding candidates as drug targets of DS. These results may provide a novel approach for the pathogenesis study of DS. © 2011 Orthopaedic Research Society Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 29:1896–1903, 2011
Biomechanical examination of the thoracic spine—the axial rotation moment and vertical loading capacity of the transverse process
Authors: Csernátony Zoltán , Molnár Szabolcs , Hunya Zsolt , Manó Sándor , Kiss László
Published: June 2011

Our objective was to examine the load‐bearing capacity of the transverse processes of human cadaveric thoracic vertebrae to vertical loads and axial rotation moments (i.e., moment applied in the transverse plane). A secondary objective was to examine the effect of the attached rib stumps. We wanted to demonstrate that the transverse process is durable enough to support the CAB hook—a complementary hook to the CD system—and can handle the vertical load or axial rotation moment during correction of scoliosis. We used 107 thoracic vertebrae removed from 10 cadavers. They were prepared in vertebral pairs, and were fixed into a material testing apparatus. Superoinferior vertical loads and axial rotation moments were applied to the transverse process using the CAB hooks at a rate of 30 mm/min and 8.5°/s respectively until it fractured. We recorded 142 measurements, 99 were for vertical load and 43 for axial rotation moment. The average ultimate vertical load was 338 (SD = 128) N and the average ultimate axial rotation moment was 14.4 (SD = 4.52) Nm. The ultimate axial rotation moment for specimens with rib stumps attached was significantly greater than for specimens without rib stumps 15.9 (SD = 4.1) Nm versus 12.5 (SD = 4.4) Nm. Our results showed that both the vertical and axial rotation loading capability of the transverse process are large enough to withstand significant correctional forces, without fracture, through the CAB hooks. © 2011 Orthopaedic Research Society Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 29:1904–1909, 2011
Liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometric method for determination of the non‐imidazole H3‐receptor antagonist UPR1056 in rat plasma
Authors: Vacondio Federica , Silva Claudia , Morini Giovanni , Bordi Fabrizio , Flammini Lisa , Barocelli Elisabetta , Mor Marco
Published: June 2011

The non‐imidazole H3 receptor antagonist UPR1056 was dosed in plasma samples from rats individually administered with a single i.p. dose of 1.25 mg/kg by means of a newly validated HPLC‐MS method. UPR1056 was extracted from rat plasma by protein precipitation with acetonitrile and was separated by linear gradient elution, employing water and methanol both additioned with 0.05% trifluoroacetic acid as mobile phases. UPR1056 was detected in MS using an electrospray ion source operating in positive ion mode. Acquisition was performed in single ion monitoring mode at m/z=349.3. The method was validated over the concentration range of 17.43–1743 ng/mL (50–5000 pmol/mL). Within‐ and between‐run precision for the low, mid and high quality controls (QC) levels were 6.75% or less and accuracy ranged from 95.8 to 107.6%. The lower limit of quantification was 17.43 ng/mL. The analysis of the time course of UPR1056 concentrations over the 24‐h period revealed a Cmax of 1147 ng/mL after 2 h from peripheral administration of the non‐imidazole H3‐receptor antagonist, with a prolonged elimination half‐life of over 9 h.
Morphology–transport relationships for silica monoliths: From physical reconstruction to pore‐scale simulations
Authors: Hlushkou Dzmitry , Bruns Stefan , Seidel‐Morgenstern Andreas , Tallarek Ulrich
Published: June 2011

This work describes individual steps of an approach toward quantitative correlations between morphological and mass transport properties of capillary silica monoliths. The macropore space morphology of the central core region of the capillary monolith is visualized by a fast, nondestructive, and quantitative method using three‐dimensional reconstruction from confocal laser scanning microscopy images. The reconstructed 60 μm×60 μm×12 μm monolith domain consisted of 1.6×109 cubic voxels with 30 nm edge length. The received morphological data were chord length distributions for the bulk macropore space and skeleton of the monolith, which we characterized by k‐gamma distributions. This analysis provides parameters that can be correlated with the mass transport properties obtained by macropore‐scale simulations of flow and transport in the reconstructed monolith. These simulations were realized on a supercomputing platform and comprised the lattice–Boltzmann method for fluid flow and a random‐walk particle‐tracking method for advective–diffusive mass transport. The characteristic length scales of eddy dispersion correlate with the statistical measures of the chord length distributions. Simulated plate height curves demonstrate that the bulk monolith is very homogeneous, and that the intraskeleton transport properties and a stochastic variation of macropore space characteristics can be neglected compared with the importance of reducing column radial heterogeneity in chromatographic practice.
Simultaneous extraction of acidic and basic drugs from urine using mixed‐mode monolithic silica spin column bonded with octadecyl and cation‐exchange group
Authors: Namera Akira , Yamamoto Shinobu , Saito Takeshi , Miyazaki Shota , Oikawa Hiroshi , Nakamoto Akihiro , Nagao Masataka
Published: June 2011

A method coupling spin column extraction with gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry was developed for the simultaneous extraction of acidic and basic drugs from urine. Benzodiazepines, local anaesthetics, antidepressants, and barbiturates were used as model drugs. Sample loading, washing, and elution of the target drugs were accomplished by centrifugation of the column. In this study, mixed‐mode monolithic silica bonded with a C18 reversed‐phase and a strong cation exchange phase was packed in a spin column. The pH of a urine sample (0.2 mL) was adjusted to 3 and the analytes adsorbed onto the column were eluted with 0.1 mL of MeOH containing 2% NH3; all the tested drugs were simultaneously extracted from urine. The recovery of the tested drugs was 65–123%. Up to a concentration of 2500 ng/mL of the target drugs in urine, a linear curve was observed (r2>0.996). The intra‐ and interday RSDs at three different concentrations in urine were 2.1–14.7%. For RSDs lower than 15%, the limits of detection were 1–25 ng/mL. The proposed method was successfully applied for clinical and forensic cases and the results thus obtained were in good agreement with those obtained by conventional methods.
Optimization of lytic phage manufacturing in bioreactor using monolithic supports
Authors: Smrekar Franc , Ciringer Mateja , Jančar Janez , Raspor Peter , Štrancar Aleš , Podgornik Aleš
Published: June 2011

A process for manufacturing large quantities of lytic bacteriophages was developed. Determination of cultivation termination was found to be essential to achieve high phage quantity and purity. When optimal cultivation termination is missed, phage fraction was found to be highly contaminated with deoxyribonucleic acid released from Escherichia coli cells. Besides, an already established method for monitoring of phage cultivation based on optical density, where its peak indicates point when maximal phage titer is achieved, a new indirect chromatographic method using methacrylate monoliths is proposed for on‐line estimation of phage titer. It is based on the measurement of released E. coli deoxyribonucleic acid and shows high correlation with phage titer obtained from plaque assay. Its main advantage is that the information is obtained within few minutes. In addition, the same method can also be used to determine purity of a final phage fraction. Two strategies to obtain highly pure phage fractions are proposed: an immediate purification of phage lysate using monolithic columns or an addition of EDTA before chromatographic purification. The developed protocol was shown to give phage purity above 90% and it is completed within one working day including cultivation and phage titer in the final formulation using developed chromatographic method.
Preparation of macroporous cryostructurated gel monoliths, their characterization and main applications
Authors: Plieva Fatima M. , Kirsebom Harald , Mattiasson Bo
Published: June 2011

Cryostructuration platform renders it possible to form macroporous materials (known as cryogels) with a broad range of porosity, from structures with combination of meso‐ and macropores to structures with 100‐μm sized macropores. When these materials are formed in the shape of monoliths (monolithic cryogels), they present a unique monolithic stationary medium for specific applications. This review summarizes the recent research on the preparation and characterization of cryostructurated monolithic cryogels for (bio)separation and points to some future perspectives.
Factors affecting Florida scrub‐jay nest survival on Ocala National Forest, Florida
Authors: Franzreb Kathleen E. , Zarnoch Stanley J.
Published: June 2011

One of the main populations of the Florida scrub‐jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens), a federally threatened species, occurs on Ocala National Forest, Florida. We determined the nest daily survival rate (DSR) of 474 nests of Florida scrub‐jays in stands subject to sand pine reforestation management after timber harvesting or wildfire on Ocala National Forest. We used the information‐theoretic approach with logistic‐exposure modeling to determine the most likely models to account for DSR for the incubation and nestling stages separately. The models consisted of 4 components (temporal, management, habitat, and helpers) with each consisting of one to several specific variables. In the incubation stage all the best models included the temporal component alone or in concert with the habitat, helpers, or habitat and helpers components. Model averaging in the incubation stage indicated support for the year and day × year in the temporal component and stand age in the habitat component. In the nestling stage, top models all included the temporal component alone or with helpers or habitat, helpers, and the interaction of habitat and helpers. Model averaging in the nestling stage showed support for the year, nest age, and to a lesser extent day in the temporal component and helpers. The management component, which consisted of no site preparation, wildfire burn, post‐harvest burn, chop and seed, or seed only, had little influence on nest survival for the incubation or nestling stages. However, we identified several other management factors that may increase Florida scrub‐jay populations despite having no effect on DSR. First, the proportion of Florida scrub‐jay nests was significantly higher than expected in burned habitat based on habitat availability, indicating a potential preferred nesting habitat conducive to population growth. Second, incubation stage DSR with respect to stand age (habitat component) declined to stand age 10 yr and then began to increase, which may be attributed to the higher bird population in the prime habitat in the middle stand ages. The denser population may result in more competition for resources, and possibly may attract more predators, resulting in a lower DSR. Thus, although DSR may be lower at the mid‐stand ages, the overall population may actually be optimal. Therefore, to increase the Florida scrub‐jay population on Ocala National Forest, we recommend maintaining a mosaic of stands ≤20 yr of age and emphasizing natural reseeding and site preparation via burning. © 2011 The Wildlife Society.
Agricultural practices and residual corn during spring crane and waterfowl migration in Nebraska
Authors: Sherfy Mark H. , Anteau Michael J. , Bishop Andrew A.
Published: June 2011

Nebraska's Central Platte River Valley (CPRV) is a major spring‐staging area for migratory birds. Over 6 million ducks, geese, and sandhill cranes (Grus canadensis) stage there en route to tundra, boreal forest, and prairie breeding habitats, storing nutrients for migration and reproduction by consuming primarily corn remaining in fields after harvest (hereafter residual corn). In springs 2005–2007, we measured residual corn density in randomly selected harvested cornfields during early (n = 188) and late migration (n = 143) periods. We estimated the mean density of residual corn for the CPRV and examined the influence of agricultural practices (post‐harvest field management) and migration period on residual corn density. During the early migration period, residual corn density was greater in idle harvested fields than any other treatments of fields (42%, 48%, 53%, and 92% more than grazed, grazed and mulched, mulched, and tilled fields, respectively). Depletion of residual corn from early to late migration did not differ among post‐harvest treatments but was greatest during the year when overall corn density was lowest (2006). Geometric mean early‐migration residual corn density for the CPRV in 2005–2007 (42.4 kg/ha; 95% CI = 35.2–51.5 kg/ha) was markedly lower than previously published estimates, indicating that there has been a decrease in abundance of residual corn available to waterfowl during spring staging. Increases in harvest efficiency have been implicated as a cause for decreasing corn densities since the 1970s. However, our data show that post‐harvest management of cornfields also can substantially influence the density of residual corn remaining in fields during spring migration. Thus, managers may be able to influence abundance of high‐energy foods for spring‐staging migratory birds in the CPRV through programs that influence post‐harvest management of cornfields. © 2011 The Wildlife Society.
The role of predator removal, density‐dependence, and environmental factors on mallard duckling survival in North Dakota
Authors: Amundson Courtney L. , Arnold Todd W.
Published: June 2011

Duckling survival is an important component of mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) recruitment and population growth, yet many factors regulating duckling survival are poorly understood. We investigated factors affecting mallard duckling survival in the drift prairie of northeastern North Dakota, 2006–2007. Mammalian meso‐predators were removed by trapping on 4 92.3 km2 study sites and another 4 study sites served as controls. We monitored 169 broods using telemetry and periodic resighting, and we modeled cumulative survival to 30 days of age ${\left( {{\hat {S}}_{30\,{\rm d}} } \right)}$ using the nest survival module in Program MARK. Duckling survival was not affected by predator removal (${\hat {S}}_{30\,{\rm d \hbox{-} Control}} {\rm = 0}{\rm .208}$, 85% CI: 0.182–0.234; ${\hat {S}}_{30\,{\rm d \hbox{-} Trapped}} {\rm = 0}{\rm .183}$, 85% CI: 0.155–0.211) and was only weakly negatively correlated with duckling density. Duckling survival was higher in 2007 (${\hat {S}}_{30{\rm d \hbox{-} 2007}} = 0.264$, 85% CI: 0.193–0.355) than 2006 (${\hat {S}}_{30\,{\rm d \hbox{-} 2006}} = 0.157$, 85% CI: 0.084–0.252) and increased with total seasonal and semipermanent wetland area and declined with perennial cover in the surrounding landscape. Broods that hatched earlier in the season (especially in 2006) and ducklings that were heavier at hatch also had higher survival. Our estimates of duckling survival are among the lowest reported for mallards and contradict previous research in Saskatchewan that found predator removal increased duckling survival. However, our results are consistent with other studies suggesting that earlier hatch date, increased wetland availability, and better duckling condition lead to increased survival. Management actions that increase wetland density, improve nest success early in the season, and potentially target brood‐specific predators such as mink (Neovison vison) would likely lead to higher duckling survival. © 2011 The Wildlife Society.
Perioperative incidence and management of hyponatremia in vWD patients undergoing adenotonsillectomy
Authors: Davidson H. Carter , Stapleton Amanda L. , Casselbrant Margaretha L. , Kitsko Dennis J.
Published: June 2011

Objectives/Hypothesis:

To analyze the incidence and severity of hyponatremia in patients receiving synthetic desmopressin (DDAVP) in the perioperative setting of oropharyngeal surgery in the treatment of von Willebrand disease and to propose a standardized protocol for perioperative fluid resuscitation and postoperative sodium monitoring after DDAVP administration.

Study Design:

Retrospective medical record review.

Methods:

A retrospective medical record review in an academic pediatric medical center was conducted. From October 1, 2002, to February 1, 2009, all patients undergoing adenotonsillectomy and receiving DDAVP preoperatively for the treatment of von Willebrand disease were identified. A total of 76 patients were identified by initial database review; 63 patients were included in the study, and 13 patients were excluded secondary to incomplete data. DDAVP dose and timing, perioperative fluid volume and composition, and postoperative sodium levels were collected. Extreme adverse events related to hyponatremia were recorded.

Results:

Forty‐seven of 63 (74.6%) patients developed some degree of hyponatremia after DDAVP administration, and six of 63 (9.5%) patients developed extreme hyponatremia, with the degree of hyponatremia related to the volume of perioperative fluid resuscitation. The sodium nadir occurred within 9 to 20 hours after DDAVP administration. No serious adverse events related to hyponatremia were recorded during the study period.

Conclusions:

The incidence of hyponatremia in children receiving DDAVP for prophylaxis of intraoperative bleeding following oropharyngeal surgery is high. The degree of hyponatremia is related to the perioperative fluid volume administered. A protocol for DDAVP administration, perioperative fluid resuscitation, and postoperative sodium monitoring that aims to reduce the incidence of hyponatremia in this population is proposed.
The effects of verbal reaction time in Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Midi Ipek , Doǧan Müzeyyen , Pata Yavuz Selim , Kocak Ismail , Mollahasanoglu Aynur , Tuncer Nese
Published: June 2011

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Verbal fluency deteriorates with normal aging, but is much more severe in Alzheimer's Disease (AD). Verbal functions were analyzed to find differences between normal aging subjects in patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and in patients with early and moderate stages of AD. This study measured the verbal response time in patients with AD, MCI, and in control subjects

Study Design:

This study measured the verbal response time in patients with AD, MCI, and in control subjects

Methods:

Fifteen patients with MCI, 15 patients with early AD, 8 patients with moderate AD, and 15 subjects for controls were included in the study. Word length in milliseconds, reaction time to a phoneme, word, or sentence and acoustic analysis of voice quality and speech diadochokinetic rate (DDK) were measured.

Results:

Reaction time for a phoneme, word, or sentence especially the initiation period for them were longer in patients with early AD compared to patients with MCI (P< .001). The mean DDK rate was lower with increased severity of the disease, and was much more severe in patients with moderate AD.

Conclusions:

Clinical discrimination of the early stages of AD and MCI is challenging. Unfortunately, there are no laboratory markers present for the diagnosis of preclinical cases of AD. With the results of this study, the assessments of verbal reaction time may helpful for diagnosis of early AD.
Prevention of buccal mucosa scarring with transforming growth factor β3
Authors: Ohno Satoshi , Hirano Shigeru , Kanemaru Shin‐ichi , Tateya Ichiro , Kitani Yoshiharu , Kojima Tsuyoshi , Nakamura Tatsuo , Ito Juichi
Published: June 2011

Objectives/Hypothesis:

In the treatment of tumorous diseases, scarring often forms after resection or irradiation. Scarring of the buccal mucosa causes difficulty in opening the mouth and mastication, decreasing quality of life. Transforming growth factor (TGF) β3 is an isoform of TGFβ1 that is known to accelerate scarring, although it has different effects on wound healing. TGFβ3 administration into wounds has been associated with improvement in the quality of healing skin in vivo. TGFβ3 is also considered to be an important anti‐scarring factor in buccal mucosa. The present study aimed to examine whether TGFβ3 is effective for prevention and treatment of buccal mucosa scarring.

Study Design:

Prospective study using an animal model.

Methods:

Thirty Sprague‐Dawley rats were involved in this study. We injected 0.5 mL of TGFβ3 (0.005 μg/mL, 0.05 μg/mL, 0.5 μg/mL, 5 μg/mL) or saline was injected into the buccal submucosa. Fifteen minutes after the injection, the mucosa was removed down to the masseter muscle or orbicularis oris muscle layer using a 6‐mm biopsy punch. Six weeks after the operation, the buccal mucosae were harvested after euthanasia. Morphologic and histologic examinations were performed.

Results:

The administration of 0.5 μg/mL TGFβ3 induced rapid re‐epithelialization and suppressed scar formation. In the submucosal layer, favorable restoration of hyaluronic acid and elastin was seen in the TGFβ3‐treated groups compared to the saline‐treated group.

Conclusions:

TGFβ3 is considered to be effective for better restoration of extracellular matrices of injured buccal mucosa, suggesting a preventative effect of buccal mucosa scarring.
Dual immunofluorescence staining of proteoglycans in human temporal bones
Authors: Markaryan Adam , Nelson Erik G. , Kohut Robert I. , Hinojosa Raul
Published: June 2011

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Immunofluorescence staining methods have been developed to study the distribution of macromolecules in archival formalin‐fixed celloidin‐embedded human temporal bone tissues. The aim of this study was to investigate the feasibility of utilizing this approach to evaluate the codistribution of more than one molecule of interest in a single tissue section.

Study Design:

Retrospective study of proteoglycan codistribution in archival human temporal bone tissues.

Methods:

The chondroitin sulfate and keratan sulfate proteoglycans were selected for evaluating this methodology. Human tissues with known proteoglycan staining patterns were studied as controls. Thirty‐one formalin‐fixed celloidin‐embedded archival human temporal bones were evaluated, and the observations in 11 specimens are described. A dual immunofluorescence staining method was developed using primary antibodies of differing isotypes and secondary antibodies labeled with fluorophores having nonoverlapping emission characteristics.

Results:

The specificity of the dual immunofluorescence technique for chondroitin sulfate and keratan sulfate proteoglycans was demonstrated in control tissues and confirmed through inhibition studies. The normal human tectorial membrane exhibited intense chondroitin sulfate staining. Cochlear and vestibular hair cells exhibited predominantly keratan sulfate staining. Keratan sulfate staining predominated in spiral ganglion cell bodies and fibers. Alterations in the normal distribution pattern of proteoglycans were observed in cases of presbycusis and otosclerosis.

Conclusions:

The dual immunofluorescence staining methodology can be used to study archival formalin‐fixed celloidin‐embedded human temporal bone tissues. This technique may be applied to the evaluation of other molecules in archival human temporal bone tissues and lead to improvement in our understanding of the function of these molecules and their role in disease processes.
MRI scanning in patients implanted with a vibrant soundbridge
Authors: Todt Ingo , Wagner Jan , Goetze Romy , Scholz Sandra , Seidl Rainer , Ernst Arne
Published: June 2011

Objective:

To observe the in vivo effects of MRI scanning on the Vibrant Soundbridge system.

Study Design:

Retrospective questionnaire.

Method:

Sixty‐three implantees answered a retrospective questionnaire covering their medical/otological and physical conditions pre‐, intra‐, and post‐magnetic resonance imaging scanning (MRI). Bone conduction (BC) thresholds were measured after MRI scanning and compared with the prescan BC.

Results:

Thirteen implantees (20.6%) underwent 19 MRI scans (1; 1.5 T) for different medical indications (e.g., exclusion of a brain tumour, lumbar disc herniation etc.). Scanner‐related impulse noise, pain in the middle ear, or pressure at the receiver bed, as well as changes of the transfer function of the floating mass transducer (FMT) are observed frequent effects of MRI scanning. Two patients required transtympanal repositioning of the FMT. A subjectively reported or objectively documented sensorineural hearing loss was not found in any of our patients in this series.

Conclusion:

MRI scanning with an implanted Vibrant Soundbridge has possible major side effects, but did not affect cochlear function in this series.
Oncological results after surgical treatment of squamous cell cancer of the lateral wall of the oropharynx
Authors: Díaz‐Molina Juan P. , Rodrigo Juan P. , Álvarez‐Marcos Cesar , Llorente José L. , Costales María , Suárez Carlos
Published: June 2011

Objectives:

The gold standard of treatment of cancer of the lateral wall of the oropharynx continues to be unclear, especially in advanced stages. In this study, we report our experience with surgical treatment of these cancers and describe the functional and oncological results of the procedures.

Study Design:

Retrospective review.

Methods:

A total of 155 previously untreated patients with squamous cell carcinoma of the lateral wall of the oropharynx who underwent a surgical resection of the lesion at our department from January 1990 to January 2008 were included. Sixty‐seven percent of these patients received postoperative radiotherapy. The records of these patients were reviewed to obtain measures such as local and regional control, disease‐specific survival, and speech and swallowing function.

Results:

Six patients had a stage I disease, 15 had a stage II disease, 31 had a stage III disease, 86 had a stage IVA, and 17 had stage IVB disease. The overall recurrence rate was 60%, and the local recurrence rate was 40%. The 5‐year overall survival and disease‐specific survival rates were 33% and 43%, respectively. Five‐year disease‐specific survival rates by stage were as follows: 100%, 59%, 57%, 31%, and 33% for stages I to IVB, respectively. Multivariate analysis showed two parameters that were independent predictors of a reduced disease‐specific survival: cervical lymph node metastases pN2–3 (P = .027) and primary tumor classified as pT3–4 (P = .029). In 122 patients, a tracheotomy was performed, and it couldn't be sealed in 23% of them. Oral alimentation was successfully recovered in 93% of the patients.

Conclusions:

Surgical treatment of cancer of the lateral wall of the oropharynx provides acceptable oncological and functional results, especially in early and moderately advanced stages (stages I–III). In advanced stages (stage IV), we obtained good functional preservation rates but poor oncological outcomes. Consequently, these groups of patients could be considered for another treatment modality, such as radiochemotherapy.
A model for training and evaluation of myringotomy and tube placement skills
Authors: Malekzadeh Sonya , Hanna Glenn , Wilson Brette , Pehlivanova Marieta , Milmoe Gregory
Published: June 2011

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Simulation is emerging as a mandatory component of surgical training and a means of demonstrating surgical competency. We designed a cost‐effective, low‐fidelity model to further acquisition of technical skills related to myringotomy and ventilation tube insertion (M&T). The purpose of the study was to examine the skills trainer as a method of assessment to evaluate competency, timeliness, and procedure confidence in junior residents.

Study Design:

Prospective, randomized.

Methods:

A simplistic M&T skills box was developed. General surgery interns (n = 20) with no prior procedure training were randomized to receive either didactic instruction or skills training using the model. One hour of lecture or technical skills training was provided to each group. A blinded examiner evaluated the subjects in both groups before and after training. Performance was measured using a global rating scale, task‐specific checklist, and time‐to‐completion. Pre‐ and postsession questionnaires assessed procedure confidence.

Results:

Analysis revealed a trend toward improvement in global rating scores between groups. There was a statistically significant difference in time improvement between groups (P = .0211). The skills lab group felt they could perform the procedure faster and with improved abilities, as compared to the didactic group (P = .0069 and 0.0007, respectively).

Conclusions:

Junior surgical residents performed an M&T procedure using a novel, low‐cost model. This study demonstrated the skills lab's positive effect on training as measured by global rating scale, time‐to‐completion, and overall resident confidence. We anticipate its application to be valuable not only in training residents but also in assessing competency.