bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tertiary alcohol preferred: Hydroxylation of trans-3-methyl-L-proline with proline hydroxylases
Authors: Klein Christian , Hüttel Wolfgang
Published: December 2011

The enzymatic synthesis of tertiary alcohols by the stereospecific oxidation of tertiary alkyl centers is a most-straightforward but challenging approach, since these positions are sterically hindered. In contrast to P450-monooxygenases, there is little known about the potential of non-heme iron(II) oxygenases to catalyze such reactions. We have studied the hydroxylation of trans-3-methyl-L-proline with the α-ketoglutarate (α-KG) dependent oxygenases, cis-3-proline hydroxylase type II and cis-4-proline hydroxylase (cis-P3H_II and cis-P4H). With cis-P3H_II, the tertiary alcohol product (3R)-3-hydroxy-3-methyl-L-proline was obtained exclusively but in reduced yield (~7%) compared to the native substrate L-proline. For cis-P4H, a complete shift in regioselectivity from C-4 to C-3 was observed so that the same product as with cis-P3H_II was obtained. Moreover, the yields were at least as good as in control reactions with L-proline (~110% relative yield). This result demonstrates a remarkable potential of non-heme iron(II) oxygenases to oxidize substrates selectively at sterically hindered positions.
A Dose Schedule for Intraarticular Steroids in Juvenile Arthritis: Table 1.
Authors: EBERHARD B. ANNE , ILOWITE NORMAN T. , SISON CRISTINA
Published: December 2011

Objective.

To determine whether the intraarticular (IA) dose of triamcinolone hexacetonide (TH) or triamcinolone acetonide (TA) influences time to relapse among patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA).

Methods.

The primary endpoint variable was the time to relapse of arthritis in the affected joint after an intraarticular (IA) injection. A relapse was defined as the reoccurrence of active arthritis in the injected joint. Analysis was carried out including only the first IA joint injection for each patient. Further analysis was conducted including the first knee injection alone. A separate analysis within the IA corticosteroid groups was performed using the Spearman rank coefficient, to determine if dose of IA steroid affected time to relapse.

Results.

Records from 186 patients with JIA (145 females, 41 males) injected with either TH or TA were collected from January 1995 through December 2003. All subjects were followed for a minimum of 15 months from the time of IA injection. Of the 794 joint injections, 422 (53.1%) were injected with TH and 372 (46.9%) with TA. There were 111 first joint injections (all joints) with TH and 70 with TA. There were 89 first joint injections (knee only) with TH and 56 with TA. TH proved more effective than TA with respect to the time to relapse for first injection into all joints (10.47 ± 0.42 mo vs 8.66 ± 0.59 mo; p < 0.001), and for first injections into knee only (11.04 ± 0.44 vs 8.99 ± 0.65 mo; p < 0.001). IA doses ranged from 0.4 to 4 mg/kg (mean 1.56 ± 0.76) for TH and from 0.5 to 8 mg/kg (mean 2.54 ± 1.74) for TA. There was no correlation between time to relapse and dose of either TH and TA (r = 0.1, p > 0.5). There was no correlation between time to relapse and sex, duration of illness, age of patient, concurrent medications, or subtype of JIA.

Conclusion.

In a larger dataset (794 injections) we have confirmed our previous findings (227 injections) that TH is a more effective IA corticosteroid than TA. In this much larger data analysis, dose of IA corticosteroid in the range we studied did not significantly influence the duration of response.
Prevalence of Vertebral Compression Fractures and Associated Factors in Children and Adolescents with Severe Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis
Authors: MARKULA-PATJAS KATI P. , VALTA HELENA L. , KERTTULA LIISA I. , SOINI IRMA H. , HONKANEN VISA E.A. , TOIVIAINEN-SALO SANNA-MARIA , MÄKITIE OUTI M.
Published: December 2011

Objective.

Vertebral fractures occur in patients with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA), but data on their frequency and causes are scarce. Our cross-sectional study evaluated prevalence of compression fractures and associated factors in a high-risk pediatric population with severe JIA.

Methods.

Children and adolescents with a history of treatment-resistant polyarticular-course JIA for ≥ 5 years or systemic arthritis for ≥ 3 years were recruited. Clinical examination, dietary recall, laboratory measurements, bone mineral density (BMD) measurement by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, and spinal radiography were performed.

Results.

Our study included 50 patients (41 girls), of whom 6 (12%) had systemic arthritis, with a median age of 14.8 years (range 7.0–18.7 yrs) and median disease duration of 10.2 years (range 3.9–16.8 years). Ninety-four percent had used systemic glucocorticoids (GC); the median total duration of GC treatment was 7.1 years (range 0–15.5 yrs). The median weight-adjusted cumulative GC dose for the preceding 3 years was 72 mg/kg (range 0–911 mg/kg). The median bone age-corrected lumbar spine and whole-body areal BMD Z-scores were −0.8 and −1.0, respectively. Twenty-two percent had vertebral fractures, mostly thoracic. Compression fractures were associated with high disease activity, high body mass index (BMI), and high recent cumulative GC dose, but not with disease duration or BMD. Thirty percent had sustained at least 1 peripheral low energy fracture. Twenty-six percent were deemed to have significantly compromised bone health.

Conclusion.

Severe JIA is associated with a significant risk of vertebral compression fractures. Associated factors include high disease activity, high BMI, and high recent GC exposure. Further studies are needed to establish optimal prevention and treatment guidelines.
Sleep Disturbances and Interleukin 6 Receptor Inhibition in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: FRAGIADAKI KALLIOPI , TEKTONIDOU MARIA G. , KONSTA MARIA , CHROUSOS GEORGE P. , SFIKAKIS PETROS P.
Published: December 2011

Objective.

Interleukin 6 (IL-6)-mediated interactions have been associated with sleep disturbances in healthy subjects. In this pilot study we examined whether administration of the IL-6 receptor antagonist tocilizumab in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) affects sleep disturbances.

Methods.

Fifteen patients (13 women) with sleep disturbances at baseline received 6 monthly infusions of tocilizumab 8 mg/kg for moderately or severely active RA. Sleep quality was assessed by Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), daytime sleepiness by Epworth Sleepiness Scale, disease activity by the 28-joint Disease Activity Score-erythrocyte sedimentation rate, functional disability by Health Assessment Questionnaire Disability Index (HAQ-DI), and fatigue by the Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy (FACIT-Fatigue Scale; FFS) at baseline and first, second, third, and sixth month of treatment. Medications used before enrollment remained unchanged during followup.

Results.

Sleep quality improved and daytime sleepiness decreased significantly at first-month assessment (p < 0.00001 and p < 0.004, respectively, by repeated measurement analysis) compared to baseline, and these changes became more evident through 6 months. Disease activity decreased, fatigue decreased, and functional status improved significantly. Changes in PSQI score over time were not associated with the corresponding changes in DAS28-ESR (r = 0.37, p = 0.17), but correlated significantly with HAQ-DI changes (r = 0.60, p = 0.02) and marginally with changes in FFS scores (r = −0.46, p = 0.08).

Conclusion.

Improvement of sleep quality after tocilizumab treatment in patients with RA does not appear to directly result from decreased disease activity, further suggesting that aberrant IL-6 regulation is associated with sleep disturbances.
Mini-Open Latarjet Procedure for Recurrent Anterior Shoulder Instability
Authors: Mercier Numa , Saragaglia Dominique
Published: December 2011

Anterior shoulder instability is a common problem. The Latarjet procedure has been advocated as an option for the treatment of anteroinferior shoulder instability. The purpose of this paper is to explain our surgical procedure titled “Mini-open Latarjet Procedure.” We detailed patient positioning, skin incision, subscapularis approach, and coracoid fixation. Then, we reviewed the literature to evaluate the clinical outcomes of this procedure.
The role of Tai Chi Chuan exercise on osteoporosis prevention and treatment in postmenopausal women
Authors: Chen Haiyan
Published: December 2011

Osteoporosis is a disease characterized by fragile bones and high susceptibility to low trauma fractures. Tai Chi, an ancient Chinese mind-body exercise that is reported to enhance muscle function, balance and flexibility, and to reduce pain, depression and anxiety, may safely and effectively be used to prevent or treat osteoporosis. The aim of this review is to evaluate the evidence for Tai Chi as an intervention to reduce rate of bone loss in postmenopausal women. A literature search on randomized controlled trials (RCTs), prospective cohort studies, and cross-sectional studies that included Tai Chi as an intervention, and had at least 1 outcome related to measurement of bone metabolism were identified in PubMed/Medline. Twenty-one controlled studies were identified in the database, which suggested Tai Chi slowed down the loss of bone mineral density in most postmenopausal women, improved balance and strength, relieves pain from arthritis, and improved mental strength so they can cope better with chronic diseases. Regular Tai Chi Chuan exercise is beneficial for retarding bone loss in the weight-bearing bones of postmenopausal women.
Die koninkryk van God as sistematies-teologiese kategorie in die werk van J.A. Heyns
Authors: Marais Sarel J.L.
Published: December 2011

The kingdom of God as a systematic-theological category in the work of J.A. Heyns Heyns was probably the most noteworthy Afrikaans speaking theologian of the 20th century, considering the quantity of Afrikaans theological publications from his pen. It is a well known fact that he used the kingdom of God as a systematic-theological category that flows like a perennial river of opportunity through all of his writings. It created an opportunity to be consistent in both his systematic theology and in his ethics, show clearly how man and God can be coworkers in a dialogical relationship and to integrate philosophy with theology. Unfortunately, there was sometimes flooding, because he filled the kingdom of God with philosophical concepts and viewed it as an ontological cosmic-universal entity. His philosophical background also occasionally led to inadequate speculations in his theology and inadmissibly he didn�t always use the Bible appropriately, although his doctrine of Scripture and hermeneutics were satisfactory. Lastly, his philosophical modus operandi helped him to differentiate between important theological concepts, which have problem solving abilities.
Alpha-Tocopherol Alters Transcription Activities that Modulates Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha (TNF-α) Induced Inflammatory Response in Bovine Cells1
Authors: Li Cong-Jun , Li Robert W. , Kahl Stanislaw , Elsasser Theodore H.
Published: December 2011

To further investigate the potential role of α-tocopherol in maintaining immuno-homeostasis in bovine cells (Madin-Darby bovine kidney epithelial cell line), we undertook in vitro experiments using recombinant TNF-α as an immuno-stimulant to simulate inflammation response in cells with or without α-tocopherol pre-treatment. Using microarray global-profiling and IPA (Ingenuity Pathways Analysis, Ingenuity® Systems, http://www.ingenuity.com ) data analysis on TNF-α-induced gene perturbation in those cells, we focused on determining whether α-tocopherol treatment of normal bovine cells in a standard cell culture condition can modify cell's immune response induced by TNF-α challenge. When three datasets were filtered and compared using IPA, there were a total of 1750 genes in all three datasets for comparison, 97 genes were common in all three sets; 615 genes were common in at least two datasets; there were 261 genes unique in TNF-α challenge, 399 genes were unique in α-tocopherol treatment, and 378 genes were unique in the α-tocopherol plus TNF-α treatment. TNF-α challenge induced significant change in gene expression. Many of those genes induced by TNF-α are related to the cells immune and inflammatory responses. The results of IPA data analysis showed that α-tocopherol-pretreatment of cells modulated cell's response to TNF-α challenge. In most of the canonical pathways, α-tocopherol pretreatment showed the antagonistic effect against the TNF-α-induced pro-inflammatory responses. We concluded that α-tocopherol pre-treatment has a significant antagonistic effect that modulates the cell's response to the TNF-α challenge by altering the gene expression activities of some important signaling molecules.
Prevalence of Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms in the Plasmodium falciparum Multidrug Resistance Gene (Pfmdr-1) in Korogwe District in Tanzania Before and After Introduction of Artemisinin-Based Combination Therapy
Authors: Thomsen Thomas T. , Ishengoma Deus S. , Mmbando Bruno P. , Lusingu John P. , Vestergaard Lasse S. , Theander Thor G. , Lemnge Martha M. , Bygbjerg Ib C. , Alifrangis Michael
Published: December 2011

Tanzania implemented artemether-lumefantrine (AL) as the first-line treatment for uncomplicated malaria in November of 2006 because of resistance to sulfadoxine-pyrimethamine. AL remains highly efficacious, but widespread use may soon facilitate emergence of artemisinin tolerance/resistance, which initially may be detected at the molecular level as temporal changes in the frequency of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the Pfmdr-1 gene associated with AL resistance. In Tanzania, 830 Plasmodium falciparum-positive samples collected between 2003 and 2010 were examined for SNPs of Pfmdr-1 at codons 86, 184, and 1246. Both the N86 and 184F increased from 2006 to 2010 (logistic regression; N86: odds ratio [95% confidence interval] = 1.35 [1.07–1.71], P = 0.01; 184F: odds ratio = 1.42 [1.07–1.88], P = 0.02), and no change was found for D1246 (odds ratio = 1.01 [0.80–1.28], P = 0.9). The observed changes may be because of introduction of AL, and if so, this finding gives cause for concern and argues for continued surveillance of these molecular markers.
Impact of Drought on the Spatial Pattern of Transmission of Schistosoma haematobium in Coastal Kenya
Authors: Mutuku Francis M. , King Charles H. , Bustinduy Amaya L. , Mungai Peter L. , Muchiri Eric M. , Kitron Uriel
Published: December 2011

We analyzed temporal changes in spatial patterns of active Schistosoma haematobium infection in different age groups and associated them with ponds infested with Bulinus snails. A major drought between 2001 and 2009 resulted in drying of ponds that were known sources of infection, and we detected very few or no snails in ponds that were infested in the past. The household-level spatial pattern of infection for children of various age groups in 2009 was contrasted with historical data from 2000. The significant local clustering of high- and low-infection levels among school-aged children that occurred in 2000 was absent in 2009. We attribute the disappearance of significant clustering around historical transmission hot spots to a decade-long drought in our study area. The implications of extreme weather and climate conditions on risk and transmission of S. haematobium and their relevance to control strategies are discussed.
Development and Evaluation of a Rapid Diagnostic Test for Plasmodium falciparum, P. vivax, and Mixed-Species Malaria Antigens
Authors: Lee Gyu-Cheol , Jeon Eun-Sung , Le Dung Tien , Kim Tong-Soo , Yoo Jong-Ha , Kim Hak Yong , Chong Chom-Kyu
Published: December 2011

Plasmodium falciparum and P. vivax malaria are endemic to many parts of the world and humans can be co-infected with both species. Because each Plasmodium species has different biological and clinical characteristics, accurate differentiation of the infecting species is essential for effective treatment. Therefore, we produced three monoclonal antibodies that recognize the lactate dehydrogenase of P. falciparum, P. vivax, or both to develop the first P. falciparum, P. vivax, and mixed-species infections malaria antigen detection kit. The detection limits of this kit were 150 and 250 parasites/μL for P. falciparum and P. vivax, respectively, and the kit was able to detect mixed-species infections. The sensitivity and specificity of this kit was assessed with 722 clinical specimens. Our results showed that its sensitivities for P. falciparum, P. vivax, and mixed-species infection were 96.5%, 95.3%, and 85.7%, respectively. In addition, its specificity was high (99.4%).
Peripheral Polyneuropathy and Mefloquine Prophylaxis
Authors: Chester Alexander C. , Sandroni Paola
Published: December 2011

We describe a case of a woman who developed a peripheral polyneuropathy shortly after completing 4 weekly doses of mefloquine hydrochloride (250 mg) malaria prophylaxis. Although mefloquine-related central nervous system neuropathy is well described in the literature, peripheral polyneuropathy similar to this case has been documented only once before, to our knowledge.
Projecting Future Medical Care Costs Using Four Scenarios of Lifestyle Risk Rates
Authors: Leutzinger Joseph A. , Ozminkowski Ronald J. , Dunn Rodney L. , Goetzel Ron Z. , Richling Dennis E. , Stewart Maureen , Whitmer R. William
Published: December 2011

Purpose.

This study predicts medical care expenditures over 10 years for Union Pacific Railroad (UPRR) under alternative health risk factor scenarios for the UPRR workforce.

Design.

This paper describes the development of an economic forecasting model to predict medical care expenditures assuming four different scenarios of population risk. The variables used to predict medical care expenditures are employee demographics and health risk profiles.

Setting.

UPRR is a transportation company with more than 56,000 employees in 25 states west and south of the Mississippi River.

Subjects.

Employees of UPRR.

Measures.

Intermediate outcomes included health risk measures related to exercise patterns, body weight, eating habits, smoking, alcohol consumption, total cholesterol, blood glucose, blood pressure, stress, and depression. Major outcome measures included projected total annual payments by UPRR for medical care services for the decade following 1998.

Results.

The UPRR work force is projected to grow by 500 employees per year over the 10-year study period. The average age is expected to increase from 44 to 48 years. Without further health promotion intervention, 7 of the 11 risk factors assessed would likely worsen among UPRR's workforce. Medical care cost increases are projected to range from $22.2 million to $99.6 million in constant 1998 dollars over the next decade, depending on the effectiveness of risk factor modification programs. With an expected health promotion budget averaging $1.9 million annually over 10 years, health risks must decline at least 0.09 % per year for the program to pay for itself.

Conclusions.

Estimating various risk and cost scenarios can facilitate program planning and produce an economic justification for worksite health programs.
The Relationship between Modifiable Health Risks and Future Medical Care Expenditures: The Korea Medical Insurance Corporation (KMIC) Study
Authors: Jee Sun Ha , O'Donnell Michael P. , Suh Il , Kim Il Soon
Published: December 2011

Context.

The relationship between lifestyle risk factors, morbidity, and mortality is well established, but the relationship between lifestyle risk factors and medical care costs is not as well defined.

Objectives.

To determine the ability of modifiable biometric and lifestyle risk factors to predict future medical care costs.

Design.

Prospective cohort study.

Setting and Participants.

Data on modifiable risk factors collected in 1992 and medical care costs collected in 1998 by the Korea Medical Insurance Corporation in South Korea. Data were examined for a final cohort 78 of 728 men and 50,414 women enrolled in the health insurance plan from 1990 through 1998.

Main Outcome Measures.

Outcome measures included likelihood of any inpatient, outpatient, and total medical care costs and outlier costs; amount of inpatient, outpatient, and total medical care costs; and portion of total medical costs attributable to each risk factor through unadjusted and adjusted multivariate analyses.

Results.

Baseline modifiable risk factors measured in 1992 (including lifestyle factors such as smoking high body mass index, exercise, and biometric measures such as cholesterol, blood sugar, blood pressure, and urinary sugar) were important predictors of the amount of medical care costs incurred 6 years later in 1998, even after controlling for age, perceived health status, and each of the other modifiable variables. These risk factors were generally better predictors than nonmodifiable demographic risk factors, including income level and type of job. For men, lifestyle risk factors were associated with total costs that were 2.4% (for high blood pressure) to 16.1 % (for former smokers) higher than among men without those risk factors. Biometric risk factors were associated with costs ranging from 9.2% (for cholesterol) to 38.2% (for positive urinary glucose) higher. For women, lifestyle risk factors were associated with total costs that were 2.5% (for exercise) to 6.4% (for current smokers) higher than among those without the risk factors. Biometric risk factors were associated with costs ranging from 10.2% (for cholesterol) to 60.4% (for positive urinary glucose) higher. For men, a cluster of six heart disease risk factors were associated with total costs 54.7% higher, and a cluster of three stroke risk factors were associated with total costs 22.2% higher than in men who had none of these risk factors. Modifiable risk factors accounted for 23.1% of medical costs for men and 8.7% for women.

Conclusions.

These results suggest that modifiable biometric and lifestyle risk factors can predict a moderate portion of future medical care costs. If these risk factors can be reduced, future medical care costs may be reduced.
Effects of Carvacrol, (E)-2-hexenal, and Citral on the Thermal Death Kinetics of Listeria monocytogenes
Authors: KAMDEM SYLVAIN SADO , BELLETTI NICOLETTA , MAGNANI RUDY , LANCIOTTI ROSALBA , GARDINI FAUSTO
Published: December 2011

Carvacrol, (E)-2-hexenal, and citral at sublethal concentrations combined with isothermal heating between 55 and 68°C were assessed for their effects on Listeria monocytogenes 56LY. Experimental survival curves were obtained and fitted to the Weibull equation to estimate parameters describing their shape and rate. These parameters were further used to assess the impact of this combination of treatments on the cell resistance distribution during inactivation. The sublethal concentrations of the aroma compounds used (i.e., 50 mg/liter citral, 65 mg/liter (E)-2-hexenal, and 30 mg/liter carvacrol) did not prevent the growth of L. monocytogenes at 37°C but did enhance inactivation. Between 55 and 63°C, the presence of the aroma compounds reduced by about two-thirds the time needed for a 5-log reduction of the microbial counts, e.g., from 145.75 h in the control treatment (at 55°C) to 40.84 h in the presence of carvacrol (at the same temperature). The mean and variance observed in the frequency distribution of resistance were reduced as the temperature increased. The results obtained at isothermal temperatures and with single aroma components provide basic information regarding components frequently found in essential oils, which can be used in combination with less extreme thermal treatments to provide energy conservation and improve food quality.
Uncertainty and Capacity Constraints: Reconsidering the Aggregate Production Function
Authors: Gracia Eduard
Published: December 2011

The Cobb–Douglas function is today one of the most widely adopted assumptions in economic modeling, yet both its theoretical and empirical bases have long been under question. This paper builds an alternative function on very different (albeit also neoclassical) microfoundations aimed at both addressing those theoretical drawbacks and providing a better empirical fit than the Cobb–Douglas formula. The new model, unlike the Cobb–Douglas function, does not portray installed capacity as aggregate capital but as a sunk cost generating economic rents. An analysis of 1949–2008 annual U.S. growth data suggest this alternative model explains nearly 85 percent of GDP fluctuations and is empirically more robust than the Cobb–Douglas, whilst both contemporary and lagged aggregate capital are statistically rejected as explanatory variables. This lends support to the old “Cambridge Critique”, according to which using value-weighted capital aggregates to explain production simply makes no sense. At face value, these results not only pose a question on any macroeconomic model assuming a Cobb–Douglas function but also point towards an alternative interpretation of phenomena such as the way monetary policy impacts productivity.
Fantasies of Fragmentation in Conrad, Kafka and Pessoa: Literary Strategies to Express Strangeness in a Hetero-social Context
Authors: Bär Gerald
Published: December 2011

Many authors, such as Chamisso, Conrad, Rilke, Kafka, Pessoa, Goll, Nabokov, Celan and Beckett grew up bi- or multilingual, or lived in linguistically and culturally hybrid regions. Recurring to examples of texts by Joseph Conrad, Franz Kafka and Fernando Pessoa, this paper focuses on their common tendency of developing new concepts of the self, by exploring the frontiers of alterity. In a social context, which is often experienced as threatening, the strangeness of being of their literary characters, often expresses itself in a double- or hetero-social consciousness, articulated in the same narrative. In this creative process, fantasies of fragmentation take the shape of doppelgangers, heteronyms, animals and even insects. The following article is a revised version of the paper presented at the Annual Meeting of the American Educational Research Association (AERA), Denver, Col., 3 May 2010.
Prediction of Ultimate Bearing Capacity of Cohesionless Soils Using Soft Computing Techniques
Authors: Adarsh S. , Dhanya R. , Krishna G. , Merlin R. , Tina J.
Published: December 2011

This study examines the potential of two soft computing techniques, namely, support vector machines (SVMs) and genetic programming (GP), to predict ultimate bearing capacity of cohesionless soils beneath shallow foundations. The width of footing (), depth of footing (), the length-to-width ratio () of footings, density of soil ( or ), angle of internal friction (), and so forth were used as model input parameters to predict ultimate bearing capacity (). The results of present models were compared with those obtained by three theoretical approaches, artificial neural networks (ANNs), and fuzzy inference system (FIS) reported in the literature. The statistical evaluation of results shows that the presently applied paradigms are better than the theoretical approaches and are competing well with the other soft computing techniques. The performance evaluation of GP model results based on multiple error criteria confirms that GP is very efficient in accurate prediction of ultimate bearing capacity cohesionless soils when compared with other models considered in this study.
Penetrating Neck Trauma in a Level II Trauma Hospital, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Ghnnam Wagih Mommtaz , Al-Mastour Ali Saeed , Bazeed Mohamed Fayez
Published: December 2011

Background. Penetrating neck trauma is a unique form of trauma that is on the rise all over the world and contributes significantly to high morbidity and mortality.Design. Retrospective and prospective case series.Setting. Urban, level II trauma hospital.Patients. Patients who had sustained penetrating trauma to the neck.Main Outcome Measures. The aim of this study was to evaluate the incidence, injury characteristics, and treatment outcome of penetrating neck trauma in our local setting and to suggest treatment protocols.Patients and Methods. This was a combined retrospective and prospective study of penetrating neck trauma patients who were managed at level II trauma hospital, Asceer region, Saudi Arabia, from March 2008 to March 2011.Results. A total of 49 patients were studied. Males outnumbered females by a ratio of 11.25:1. Their mean age (SD) was 31.1(12.6) years. Fourteen patients were caused by stab-wound injuries. Most injuries were in zone II (83.7%). More than one-third of patients were treated conservatively. Wound exploration and debridement were the mode of treatment in the majority of cases. The mean duration of hospital stay was 6.6 days (1–18 days). Mortality rate was 12.2%.Conclusion. The present paper illustrates the difficulties of managing penetrating neck injuries in our region, Saudi Arabia.
Fabrication of Silk Microneedles for Controlled‐Release Drug Delivery
Authors: Tsioris Konstantinos , Raja Waseem K. , Pritchard Eleanor M. , Panilaitis Bruce , Kaplan David L. , Omenetto Fiorenzo G.
Published: December 2011

Microneedles are emerging as a minimally invasive drug delivery alternative to hypodermic needles. Current material systems utilized in microneedles impose constraints hindering the further development of this technology. In particular, it is difficult to preserve sensitive biochemical compounds (such as pharmaceuticals) during processing in a single microneedle system and subsequently achieve their controlled release. A possible solution involves fabricating microneedles systems from the biomaterial silk fibroin. Silk fibroin combines excellent mechanical properties, biocompatibility, biodegradability, benign processing conditions, and the ability to preserve and maintain the activity of biological compounds entrained in its material matrix. The degradation rate of silk fibroin and the diffusion rate of the entrained molecules can be controlled simply by adjusting post‐processing conditions. This combination of properties makes silk an ideal choice to improve on existing issues associated with other microneedle‐based drug delivery system. In this study, a fabrication method to produce silk biopolymer microstructures with the high aspect ratios and mechanical properties required to manufacture microneedle systems is reported. Room temperature and aqueous‐based micromolding allows for the bulk loading of these microneedles with labile drugs. The drug release rate is decreased 5.6‐fold by adjusting the post‐processing conditions of the microneedles, mainly by controlling the silk protein secondary structure. The release kinetics are quantified in an in vitro collagen hydrogel model, which allows tracking of the model drug. Antibiotic loaded silk microneedles are manufactured and used to demonstrate a 10‐fold reduction of bacterial density after their application. The processing strategies developed in this study can be expanded to other silk‐based structural formats for drug delivery and biologicals storage applications.
Consensus recommendations for current treatments and accelerating clinical trials for patients with neurofibromatosis type 2
Authors: Blakeley Jaishri O. , Evans D. Gareth , Adler John , Brackmann Derald , Chen Ruihong , Ferner Rosalie E. , Hanemann C. Oliver , Harris Gordon , Huson Susan M. , Jacob Abraham , Kalamarides Michel , Karajannis Matthias A. , Korf Bruce R. , Mautner Victor‐Felix , McClatchey Andrea I. , Miao Harry , Plotkin Scott R. , Slattery William , Stemmer‐Rachamimov Anat O. , Welling D. Bradley , Wen Patrick Y. , Widemann Brigitte , Hunter‐Schaedle Kim , Giovannini Marco
Published: December 2011

Neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) is a tumor suppressor syndrome characterized by bilateral vestibular schwannomas (VS) which often result in deafness despite aggressive management. Meningiomas, ependymomas, and other cranial nerve and peripheral schwannomas are also commonly found in NF2 and collectively lead to major neurologic morbidity and mortality. Traditionally, the overall survival rate in patients with NF2 is estimated to be 38% at 20 years from diagnosis. Hence, there is a desperate need for new, effective therapies. Recent progress in understanding the molecular basis of NF2 related tumors has aided in the identification of potential therapeutic targets and emerging clinical therapies. In June 2010, representatives of the international NF2 research and clinical community convened under the leadership of Drs. D. Gareth Evans (University of Manchester) and Marco Giovannini (House Research Institute) to review the state of NF2 treatment and clinical trials. This manuscript summarizes the expert opinions about current treatments for NF2 associated tumors and recommendations for advancing therapies emerging from that meeting. The development of effective therapies for NF2 associated tumors has the potential for significant clinical advancement not only for patients with NF2 but for thousands of neuro‐oncology patients afflicted with these tumors. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The 8th international research symposium on the Marfan Syndrome and related conditions
Authors: Pyeritz Reed E. , Loeys Bart
Published: December 2011

In the nearly quarter‐century since the first international symposium on Marfan syndrome, enormous progress has been achieved in clinical, translational, and basic research. The 8th symposium, at the end of 2010, provides a useful summary of the current status of investigations, reveals why life‐expectancy has improved so markedly during the past 30 years, and lays out a clear path for future endeavors, not only in Marfan syndrome, but in the expanding array of conditions related either through phenotype or pathogenesis. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A 16q12 microdeletion in a boy with severe psychomotor delay, craniofacial dysmorphism, brain and limb malformations, and a heart defect
Authors: Shoukier Moneef , Wickert Julia , Schröder Julia , Bartels Iris , Auber Bernd , Zoll Barbara , Salinas‐Riester Gabriela , Weise Dagmar , Brockmann Knut , Zirn Birgit , Burfeind Peter
Published: December 2011

Interstitial deletions of the proximal chromosome 16q are rare. To date, only six cases with molecularly well‐characterized microdeletions within this chromosomal region have been described. We report on a patient with severe psychomotor delay, dysmorphic features, microcephaly and hypoplasia of the corpus callosum, epilepsy, a heart defect, and pronounced muscular hypotonia. Array comparative genomic hybridization (aCGH) revealed that the patient's features were likely caused by a 4.7 Mb de novo deletion on chromosome 16q12.1q12.2, which was confirmed by quantitative real‐time PCR (qPCR). The psychomotor delay and craniofacial dysmorphism are more severe in our patient than previously reported patients. Unmasked recessive mutations in the ZNF423 and FTO genes on the remaining allele were excluded as the putative cause for this severe phenotype. In conclusion, the phenotypic spectrum of microdeletions in 16q12 is broad and comprises variable degrees of psychomotor delay and intellectual disability, craniofacial anomalies, and additional features, including heart defects, brain malformations, and limb anomalies. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Mild nasal malformations and parietal foramina caused by homozygous ALX4 mutations
Authors: Kayserili Hülya , Altunoglu U. , Ozgur H. , Basaran S. , Uyguner Z.O.
Published: December 2011

We report on a boy born to consanguineous parents, who had hypertelorism, a broad nasal bridge, ridge and tip, bifid nasal tip, cleft alae nasi, broad columella, unilateral preauricular tag, shallow labiogingival sulcus, and bilateral large parietal foramina. Cranial MRI revealed a kinked corpus body and small cerebellar vermis. Molecular analysis uncovered a homozygous c.673C > G (p.Q225E) mutation in ALX4 gene. We compare the relatively mild phenotype in the patient to the more marked phenotype described in other patients with homozygous ALX4 mutations, and to the phenotypes in patients with mutations in other ALX genes. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Catalysis Based on Nanocrystals with Well‐Defined Facets
Authors: Zhou Kebin , Li Yadong
Published: December 2011

Using bottom‐up chemistry techniques, the composition, size, and shape in particular can now be controlled uniformly for each and every nanocrystal (NC). Research into shape‐controlled NCs have shown that the catalytic properties of a material are sensitive not only to the size but also to the shape of the NCs as a consequence of well‐defined facets. These findings are of great importance for modern heterogeneous catalysis research. First, a rational synthesis of catalysts might be achieved, since desired activity and selectivity would be acquired by simply tuning the shape, that is, the exposed crystal facets, of a NC catalyst. Second, shape‐controlled NCs are relatively simple systems, in contrast to traditional complex solids, suggesting that they may serve as novel model catalysts to bridge the gap between model surfaces and real catalysts.
Synthesis and characterization of polyhedral oligomeric azido‐octaphenylsilsesquioxane
Authors: Fan Haibo , Yang Rongjie
Published: December 2011

Polyhedral oligomeric azido‐octaphenylsilsesquioxane (N3‐OPS) was synthesized from octaaminophenylsilsesquioxane (OAPS) via its diazonium salt. The synthesis included nitration of octaphenylsilsesquioxane (OPS) to octanitrophenylsilsesquioxane (ONPS), conversion of ONPS into octaaminophenylsilsesquioxane (OAPS), and conversion of OAPS into N3‐OPS. The kinetics of the conversion of OAPS into N3‐OPS were studied by recording the volume of N2 gas released with the reaction time, which revealed it to be a 1st order reaction. The chemical structures of ONPS, OAPS and N3‐OPS were characterized by 1H‐NMR, GPC, FTIR, 29Si solid NMR, 13C‐NMR, XRD, and elemental analysis. It is proposed that the diazonium salt of OAPS was substituted by the main N3 group and a few of the OH groups. The ratio of N3:OH was calculated to be approximately 68:32 in N3‐OPS on the basis of the elemental analysis and 1H‐NMR. XRD suggested that N3‐OPS was a kind of amorphous compound. The two‐step conversion mechanism of OAPS to N3‐OPS was briefly discussed. TGA results showed that N3‐OPS was stable at ambient temperature. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Organic liquid stimuli‐response behaviors of electrically conductive microfibrillar composite with a selective conductive component distribution
Authors: Dai Kun , Zhang Yi‐Chuan , Tang Jian‐Hua , Ji Xu , Li Zhong‐Ming
Published: December 2011

This article reports the organic liquid stimuli‐response behaviors of carbon black (CB)‐filled electrically conductive microfibrillar poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET)/polyethylene (PE) composite (FCMC) with CB particles selectively localized at PET microfibrils' surfaces. It was found that FCMC's thickness and CB concentration affected its responsivity significantly, a thinner FCMC film with a high CB content exhibited higher responsivity and better signals. In immersion‐drying tests, FCMC displayed high and stable responsivities after six immersion‐drying runs, indicating that the solvent absorption/desorption equilibrium state was achieved. After long‐term immersion, FCMC showed obviously different organic liquid stimuli‐response behaviors with faster response rate in immersion and higher terminal resistivity platform in drying, compared with samples without immersion treatment. Conductive network's microstructural changes induced by the long‐term immersion and evident capillary effect, which resulted in slow evaporation of remaining solvent in FCMC's interfaces, are the reasons for the phenomenon. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Ageing of poly(ethylene terephthalate) and poly(ethylene naphthalate) under moderately accelerated conditions
Authors: Turnbull L. , Liggat J. J. , MacDonald W. A.
Published: December 2011

PEN is thought to have increased thermal and hydrolytic resistance in comparison to PET. However, due to a lack of research, few studies have been published on the degradation of PEN. In our research, we report on the extent of degradation in PET and PEN after ageing under contrasting environments (dry nitrogen, dry air, wet nitrogen, and wet air) at temperatures between 140°C and 190°C. A combination of analysis techniques were employed in order to characterize and track the physical and chemical changes in the aged polyester samples, enabling the effects of temperature, water, and oxygen to be mapped onto the resultant property changes of PET and PEN. The extent of degradation has been shown to differ between both polymers and the dominant degradation mechanism in PET was shown to differ with ageing temperature. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2011
Predictors of functional impairment and pain in erosive osteoarthritis of the interphalangeal joints: Comparison with controlled inflammatory arthritis
Authors: Wittoek Ruth , Cruyssen Bert Vander , Verbruggen Gust
Published: December 2011

Objective

To compare levels of pain and functional limitation in patients with erosive osteoarthritis (OA) of the interphalangeal finger joints with those in patients with nonerosive OA and patients with controlled inflammatory arthritis affecting the hands, and to explore predictors of functional impairment in erosive OA.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study including 270 patients with OA of the hands who were referred to rheumatology clinics was performed. A group of patients with inflammatory arthritis (rheumatoid arthritis or psoriatic arthritis) with a low Disease Activity Score in 28 joints (<3.2; n = 79) was examined. Levels of functional impairment (measured by the Functional Index for Hand OA [FIHOA] and Australian/Canadian OA Hand Index [AUSCAN]) and pain were compared between the groups. Predictors of functional impairment in erosive OA were evaluated by generalized linear models.

Results

Of 270 patients with hand OA, 167 (61.9%) were classified as having erosive OA. Despite a higher percentage of patients taking analgesics (almost 60%), patients with erosive OA had worse functional outcome and pain scores than patients with controlled inflammatory arthritis or nonerosive OA. Pain scores remained significantly higher in patients with erosive OA after correction for potential confounders. FIHOA and AUSCAN function scores showed a trend toward more disability in patients with erosive OA. Female sex and the number of radiographic affected joints (consisting of joints in the erosive and remodeled radiographic phases) were the strongest predictors of functional impairment in erosive OA. Whether the carpometacarpal joints were affected did not influence functional status in patients with erosive OA.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that patients with erosive OA have more functional impairment and significantly more pain compared to patients with controlled inflammatory arthritis affecting the hands. This highlights the significant clinical burden of erosive OA and warrants the search for new treatment strategies.
Regional differences in grey and white matter in children and adults with autism spectrum disorders: an activation likelihood estimate (ALE) meta‐analysis
Authors: Duerden Emma G. , Mak‐Fan Kathleen M. , Taylor Margot J. , Roberts S. Wendy
Published: December 2011

Structural alterations in brain morphology have been inconsistently reported in children compared to adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). We assessed these differences by performing meta‐analysis on the data from 19 voxel‐based morphometry studies. Common findings across the age groups were grey matter reduction in left putamen and medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) and grey matter increases in the lateral PFC, while white matter decreases were seen mainly in the children in frontostriatal pathways. In the ASD sample, children/adolescents were more likely than adults to have increased grey matter in bilateral fusiform gyrus, right cingulate and insula. Results show that clear maturational differences exist in social cognition and limbic processing regions only in children/adolescents and not in adults with ASD, and may underlie the emotional regulation that improves with age in this population. Autism Res 2012,5:49–66. © 2011 International Society for Autism Research, Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Earthquake Distresses Reproductive Function but not Fetal Development in Rats
Authors: Guo Haidong , Pan Li , Li Zike , Wei Na , Wang Hanrong , Xiao Kai , Li Hongxia
Published: December 2011

BACKGROUND

It is well known that earthquake severely threatens life‐safety and physical damage. However, the empirical literature on the effects of nature disasters such as earthquake on the reproductive outcomes is limited.

METHODS

On May 12th, 2008, a massive 8.0 magnitude earthquake occurred in Wenchuan, a city 92 km away from our animal facility [National Chengdu Center for Safety Evaluation of Drugs (NCCSED)]. To investigate whether this tremendous earthquake exerted adverse effects on the reproductive and developmental functions in Sprague–Dawley rats, we collected some relevant data from reproductive toxicity studies around the earthquake, and compared them with the background data, which were gathered before and after the earthquake. Copulation ratio, gestation ratio, and fertility of female rats, as well as uterine and fetal morphology, were examined.

RESULTS

: Our data demonstrated that the Wenchuan earthquake significantly decreased the copulation and gestation ratio, although it did not exhibit obvious side effects on some other reproductive and developmental parameters.