bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Current issues in inflammatory bowel disease neoplasia
Authors: Vieth Michael , Neumann Helmut
Published: September 2014

Recent histological criteria and developments in the field of endoscopic imaging have led to higher detection rates of neoplasms in ulcerative colitis. Once a lesion is detected, endoscopic resection is recommended to guide subsequent surveillance or therapy and to gain adequate material for histological diagnosis. Further management is based on the grade of neoplasia and on whether the neoplasia is categorized as sporadic or colitis‐associated. Nevertheless it may sometimes be difficult to distinguish colitis‐associated neoplasms from sporadic neoplasms. A better way to report this may be ultimately classified. Here, we review endoscopic and histological parameters to help to differentiate colitis‐associated neoplasia from sporadic lesions and discuss pathogenesis and therapeutic options.
Correlation Between Dielectric Properties and Phase Distribution Modes of Tunable Ferroelectric–Dielectric Composite Ceramics
Authors: Zhang Mingwei , Xin Le
Published: September 2014

The effect of ball‐milling time on dielectric properties of selected ferroelectric–dielectric composites was investigated. A prolonged milling time led an increase in dielectric permittivity and a slight improvement in tunability. However, Q values of the ferroelectric–dielectric composites were deteriorated with extended ball‐milling time, contrary to the general “intuitive belief” that Q values would be improved with better uniformity. The variation in dielectric properties of the ferroelectric–dielectric composites as a function of milling time was well explained in terms of transition in phase distribution mode.
Culture, memory and collective identities: a cross‐modal analysis of metaphors inItalian corporate historical discourse
Authors: Gatti Maria Cristina
Published: September 2014

This study presents a metaphor‐based approach to analysing identity in corporate discourse, which hinges on an understanding of corporate memory as a dynamic process ofre‐memberingthat shapes a company's culture and identity. The analysis is based on a corpus of websites of 40 majorItalian listed companies. Data comprise verbal and non‐verbal texts exemplifying corporate histories. The focus is on metaphors, looking at their verbal realisation and their intersemiotic construction on the web page, with regard to identity, and as filtered through the memory‐centred discourse addressed to international markets. The investigation reveals thatItalian companies' ‘historical’ discourse contributes to the construction of memory in a (culturally‐marked) individual‐to‐collectivity recalling process. As such, historical discourse informs the notion of active past that shapes a company's social identity.
Effect of smoking cessation on non‐surgical periodontal therapy: results after 24 months
Authors: Rosa Ecinele Francisca , Corraini Priscila , Inoue Gislene , Gomes Elaine Fueta , Guglielmetti Mariana Rocha , Sanda Sheila Regina , Lotufo João Paulo Becker , Romito Giuseppe Alexandre , Pannuti Cláudio Mendes
Published: September 2014

Aim

The aim of this 24‐month prospective study was to assess the effect of smoking cessation on non‐surgical periodontal therapy (NSPT) in adult subjects with chronic periodontitis.

Materials and Methods

Relative to a previous 12‐month follow‐up study, recruitment and follow‐up period were extended, resulting in 116 eligible among the 286 screened subjects. They received NSPT and concurrent smoking cessation interventions. Periodontal maintenance was performed every 3 months. A calibrated examiner, blinded to smoking status, performed full‐mouth periodontal examination in six sites per tooth at baseline, 3, 12 and 24 months of follow‐up. Expired air carbon monoxide concentration measurements and interviews were performed to gather demographic and behavioural information.

Results

From the 116 enrolled subjects, 61 remained up to 24 months of follow‐up. Of these, 18 quit smoking (Q), 32 continued smoking (NQ) and 11 oscillated (O) at 24 months of follow‐up. Thereby, Q showed significantly higher mean CAL gain in diseased sites and higher reduction in the proportion of sites with CAL ≥ 3 mm, when compared to NQ. In addition, Q presented significantly higher mean probing depth reduction relative to NQ(p ≤ 0.05).

Conclusion

Smoking cessation promoted additional benefits on NSPT in chronic periodontitis subjects.
Aspirin‐exacerbated cutaneous disease (AECD) is a distinct subphenotype of chronic spontaneous urticaria
Authors: Sánchez‐Borges M. , Caballero‐Fonseca F. , Capriles‐Hulett A. , González‐Aveledo L.
Published: September 2014

Background

A subset of patients with chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU) experience disease exacerbations after receiving non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). This condition has been designated as Aspirin‐Exacerbated Cutaneous Disease (AECD).

Objectives

The purpose of this study was twofold: (i) Investigate the demographic and clinical features of patients affected by AECD; (ii) To compare patients with AECD and NSAID‐tolerant CSU patients for those characteristics.

Methods

Patients with AECD and a group of unselected CSU patients tolerant to NSAIDs were studied. Demographic and clinical data were obtained by direct questioning and physical examination. Laboratory investigations and allergen skin prick tests were performed only in selected patients, as guided by the medical history.

Results

Of 423 CSU patients admitted in the clinics, 52 (12.2%) had AECD. Compared with NSAID‐tolerant CSU patients, AECD patients had significantly longer disease duration (57.7 ± 118.4 vs. 24.4 ± 36.6 months, P < 0.05), higher prevalence of angio‐oedema (72.7 vs. 30.9%, P < 0.05) and atopy (83.8% vs. 58.4%, P < 0.05) and more frequent involvement of the face and upper respiratory tract (54.5% vs. 29.6%, P < 0.05).

Conclusions

AECD is a distinct phenotype that should be considered for inclusion as a separate subtype of chronic spontaneous urticaria.
Effects of food restriction across stages of juvenile and early adult development on body weight, survival and adult life history
Authors: Wong J. W. Y. , Kölliker M.
Published: September 2014

Organisms have to allocate limited resources among multiple life‐history traits, which can result in physiological trade‐offs, and variation in environmental conditions experienced during ontogeny can influence reproduction later in life. Food restriction may lead to an adaptive reallocation of the limited resources among traits as a phenotypically plastic adjustment, or it can act as an overall constraint with detrimental effects throughout reproductive life. In this study, we investigated experimentally the effects of food restriction during different stages of the juvenile and early adult development on body weight, survival and reproductive success in females and males of the European earwig Forficula auricularia. Individuals either received limited or unlimited access to food across three different stages of development (fully crossed) allowing us to identify sensitive periods during development and to test both additive and interactive effects of food limitation across stages on development and reproduction. Food restriction during the early and late juvenile stage had additive negative effects on juvenile survival and adult body weight. With regard to reproductive success of females which produce up to two clutches in their lifetime, restriction specifically in the late juvenile stage led to smaller first and second clutch size, lower probability of second clutch production and reduced hatching success in the second clutch. Reproductive success of females was not significantly affected when their male mates experienced food restriction during their development. Our findings in general support the ‘silver‐spoon’ hypothesis in that food restriction during juvenile development poses constraints on development and reproduction throughout life.
Five‐year follow‐up of immune response after one or two doses of inactivated hepatitis A vaccine given at 1 year of age in the Mendoza Province of Argentina
Authors: Espul C. , Benedetti L. , Linares M. , Cuello H. , Rasuli A.
Published: September 2014

Our study was conducted to further investigate the single‐dose approach of hepatitis A vaccination, while providing supportive data on the flexibility of booster administration. Participants received at least one dose of Avaxim 80U Pediatric at 11–23 months of age, and they will be followed for 10 years. We report here the fourth and fifth years after the first vaccination. Group assignment was based on whether the children received 1 dose and no booster during the study (Group 1) or 2 doses and no further booster (Group 2). Anti‐HAV antibody concentrations were assessed at each annual visit. Of the 546 initial participants, 441 (80.8%) and 412 (75.5%) were followed up 4 and 5 years after vaccination, respectively. Of the 411 subjects evaluable at Year 5, 318 had received one vaccine dose and 85 had received two. Seroprotection rates were still high in Group 1 (99.7%) and in Group 2 (100%) 5 years after one or two doses of Avaxim 80U Pediatric, correspondingly. Anti‐HAV geometric mean concentrations decreased in both groups compared to what they were 3 years after vaccination, while remaining well above the 10 mIU/mL threshold 5 years after vaccination. The highest concentrations were found in the children who received 2 vaccine doses. Hepatitis A humoral immunity induced by a single dose of inactivated hepatitis A vaccine can persist for at least 5 years in a paediatric population. The study results also support recommendations in favour of a flexible time window for booster vaccination.
Establishment of a panel of in‐house polyclonal antibodies for the diagnosis of enterovirus infections
Authors: Kotani Osamu , Iwata‐Yoshikawa Naoko , Suzuki Tadaki , Sato Yuko , Nakajima Noriko , Koike Satoshi , Iwasaki Takuya , Sata Tetsutaro , Yamashita Teruo , Minagawa Hiroko , Taguchi Fumihiro , Hasegawa Hideki , Shimizu Hiroyuki , Nagata Noriyo
Published: September 2014

The aim of this study was to establish a reliable method of virus detection for the diagnosis of critical enterovirus infections such as acute infective encephalitis, encephalomyelitis and myocarditis. Because histopathological and immunohistochemical analyses of paraffin‐embedded tissues play an important role in recognizing infectious agents in tissue samples, six in‐house polyclonal antibodies raised against three representative enteroviruses using an indirect immunofluorescence assay and immunohistochemistry were examined. This panel of polyclonal antibodies recognized three serotypes of enterovirus. Two of the polyclonal antibodies were raised against denatured virus particles from enterovirus A71, one was raised against the recombinant VP1 protein of coxsackievirus B3, and the other for poliovirus type 1 were raised against denatured virus particles, the recombinant VP1 protein and peptide 2C. Western blot analysis revealed that each of these antibodies recognized the corresponding viral antigen and none cross‐reacted with non‐enteroviruses within the family Picornaviridae. However, all cross‐reacted to some extent with the antigens derived from other serotypes of enterovirus. Indirect immunofluorescence assay and immunohistochemistry revealed that the virus capsid and non‐structural proteins were localized in the cytoplasm of affected culture cells, and skeletal muscles and neurons in neonatal mice experimentally‐infected with human enterovirus. The antibodies also recognized antigens derived from recent clinical isolates of enterovirus A71, coxsackievirus B3 and poliovirus. In addition, immunohistochemistry revealed that representative antibodies tested showed the same recognition pattern according to each serotype. Thus, the panel of in‐house anti‐enterovirus polyclonal antibodies described herein will be an important tool for the screening and pathological diagnosis for enterovirus infections, and may be useful for the classification of different enterovirus serotypes, including coxsackieviruses A and B, echoviruses, enterovirus A71 and poliovirus.
Myocardial energetics and ubiquinol in diastolic heart failure
Authors: Bates Angelina , Shen Qiuhua , Hiebert John B. , Thimmesch Amanda , Pierce Janet D.
Published: September 2014

Diastolic heart failure, or heart failure with preserved ejection fraction, is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality. There are no current therapies effective in improving outcomes for these patients. The aim of this article is to review the literature and examine the role of coenzyme Q10 in heart failure with preserved ejection fraction related to mitochondrial synthesis of adenosine triphosphate and reactive oxygen species production. The study results reflect that myocardial energetics alters in diastolic heart failure and that there is defective energy metabolism and increased oxidative stress. Studies are emerging to evaluate coenzyme Q10, particularly ubiquinol, as a supplemental treatment for heart‐failure patients. In diastolic heart‐failure patients, clinicians are beginning to use supplemental therapies to improve patient outcomes, and one promising complementary treatment to improve left ventricular diastolic function is ubiquinol. Additional studies are needed using large‐scale randomized models to confirm if ubiquinol would be beneficial. Since ubiquinol is an antioxidant and is required for adenosine triphosphate production, clinicians and health scientists should be aware of the potential role of this supplement in the treatment of diastolic heart failure.
Unraveling the effect of arsenic on the model Medicago–Ensifer interaction: a transcriptomic meta‐analysis
Authors: Lafuente Alejandro , Pérez‐Palacios Patricia , Doukkali Bouchra , Molina‐Sánchez María D. , Jiménez‐Zurdo José I. , Caviedes Miguel A. , Rodríguez‐Llorente Ignacio D. , Pajuelo Eloísa
Published: September 2014

The genetic regulation underlying the effect of arsenic (As(III)) on the model symbiosis Medicago–Ensifer was investigated using a combination of physiological (split‐roots), microscopy and genetic (microarrays, qRT‐PCR and composite plants) tools.

Nodulation was very sensitive to As(III) (median inhibitory dose (ID50) = 20 μM). The effect on root elongation and on nodulation was local (nonsystemic). A battery of stress (salt, drought, heat shock, metals, etc.)‐related genes were induced. Glutathione played a pivotal role in tolerance/detoxification, together with secondary metabolites ((iso)flavonoids and phenylpropanoids). However, antioxidant enzymes were not activated.

Concerning the symbiotic interaction, molecular evidence suggesting that rhizobia alleviate As stress is for the first time provided. Chalcone synthase (which is involved in the first step of the legume–rhizobia cross‐talk) was strongly enhanced, suggesting that the plants are biased to establish symbiotic interactions under As(III) stress. In contrast, 13 subsequent nodulation genes (involved in nodulation factors (Nod factors) perception, infection, thread initiation and progression, and nodule morphogenesis) were repressed.

Overexpression of the ethylene responsive factor ERN in composite plants reduced root stress and partially restored nodulation, whereas overexpression of the early nodulin ENOD12 enhanced nodulation both in the presence and, particularly, in the absence of As, without affecting root elongation. Several transcription factors were identified, which could be additional targets for genetic engineering aiming to improve nodulation and/or alleviate root stress induced by this toxic.
On endocytoscopy and posttherapy pathologic staging in esophageal cancers, and on evidence‐based methodology
Authors: Chao Yin‐Kai , Kawada Kenro , Kumagai Youichi , Takubo Kaiyo , Wang Helen H.
Published: September 2014

The following, from the 12th OESO World Conference: Cancers of the Esophagus, includes commentaries on the value of endocytoscopy to replace biopsy histology for squamous cell carcinoma and the clinical significance of posttherapy pathologic stage in patients with esophageal adenocarcinoma following preoperative chemoradiation; a short discussion of evidence‐based methodology is also included.
Pharmacologic treatments for esophageal disorders
Authors: Blackshaw L. Ashley , Bordin Dmitry S. , Brock Christina , Brokjaer Anne , Drewes Asbjørn Mohr , Farmer Adam D. , Krarup Anne Lund , Lottrup Christian , Masharova Antonina A. , Moawad Fouad J. , Olesen Anne Estrup
Published: September 2014

The following, from the 12th OESO World Conference: Cancers of the Esophagus, includes commentaries on the role for ketamine and other alternative treatments in esophageal disorders; the use of linaclotide in the treatment of esophageal pain; the alginate test as a diagnostic criterion in gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD); the use of baclofen in treatment of GERD; the effects of opioids on the esophagus; the use of antagonists on the receptor level in GERD; the effect of local formulation of drugs on the esophageal mucosa; and the use of electroencephalographic fingerprints to predict the effect of pharmacological treatment.
Esophageal stem cells and genetics/epigenetics in esophageal cancer
Authors: Croagh Daniel , Frede Julia , Jones Philip H. , Kaur Pritinder , Partensky Christian , Phillips Wayne A.
Published: September 2014

The following, from the 12th OESO World Conference: Cancers of the Esophagus, includes commentaries on the relationship between stem cells, cancer, and the esophagus; the behavior of esophageal stem cells; and the role of genetics and epigenetics in approaches to translational research.
Comparative genomic analysis of esophageal cancers
Authors: Caygill Christine P.J. , Gatenby Piers A.C. , Herceg Zdenko , Lima Sheila C.S. , Pinto Luis F.R. , Watson Anthony , Wu Ming‐Shiang
Published: September 2014

The following, from the 12th OESO World Conference: Cancers of the Esophagus, includes commentaries on comparative genomic analysis of esophageal cancers: genomic polymorphisms, the genetic and epigenetic drivers in esophageal cancers, and the collection of data in the UK Barrett's Oesophagus Registry.
Superficial and early cancers of the esophagus
Authors: Davydov Мikhail , Delektorskaya Vera V. , Kuvshinov Yuri P. , Lisovsky Mikhail , Pirogov Sergey S. , Udagawa Harushi , Ueno Masaki , Wang Guiqi
Published: September 2014

The following, from the 12th OESO World Conference: Cancers of the Esophagus, includes commentaries on the evolution of Barrett's dysplasia to early cancer; the early detection of esophageal cancer in China; new technologies of treatment for dysplasia; the prognostic value of molecular markers expression in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma; the follow‐up schedule after ablation of high‐grade dysplasia; intramucosal cancers; and tubular widespread endoscopic esophageal submucosal dissection with high‐dose steroid stricture prevention.
Therapeutic approaches to gastroesophageal junction adenocarcinomas
Authors: Blom Rachel L.G.M. , Bogush Tatiana , Brücher Björn L.D.M. , Chang Andrew C. , Davydov Mikhail , Dudko Evgeny , Leong Trevor , Polotsky Boris , Swanson Paul E. , van Rossum Peter S.N. , Ruurda Jelle P. , Sagaert Xavier , Tjulandin Sergei , Schraepen Marie‐Celine , Sosef Meindert N. , van Hillegersberg Richard
Published: September 2014

The following, from the 12th OESO World Conference: Cancers of the Esophagus, includes commentaries on the distinction between adenocarcinomas above, below, or within the gastroesophageal junction; combined modality therapy; tumor markers for use in personalized medicine; PET‐CT and endoscopic biopsies in the evaluation of response to neoadjuvant chemoradiation therapy; a standardized grading system for tumor regression in squamous cell cancer and adenocarcinoma; the experimental basis for new approaches to medical treatment; the criteria measuring response in esophageal cancer; and the impact of novel imaging on staging and response assessment.
Surgical treatments for esophageal cancers
Authors: Allum William H. , Bonavina Luigi , Cassivi Stephen D. , Cuesta Miguel A. , Dong Zhao Ming , Felix Valter Nilton , Figueredo Edgar , Gatenby Piers A.C. , Haverkamp Leonie , Ibraev Maksat A. , Krasna Mark J. , Lambert René , Langer Rupert , Lewis Michael P.N. , Nason Katie S. , Parry Kevin , Preston Shaun R. , Ruurda Jelle P. , Schaheen Lara W. , Tatum Roger P. , Turkin Igor N. , van der Horst Sylvia , van der Peet Donald L. , van der Sluis Peter C. , van Hillegersberg Richard , Wormald Justin C.R. , Wu Peter C. , Zonderhuis Barbara M.
Published: September 2014

The following, from the 12th OESO World Conference: Cancers of the Esophagus, includes commentaries on the role of the nurse in preparation of esophageal resection (ER); the management of patients who develop high‐grade dysplasia after having undergone Nissen fundoplication; the trajectory of care for the patient with esophageal cancer; the influence of the site of tumor in the choice of treatment; the best location for esophagogastrostomy; management of chylous leak after esophagectomy; the optimal approach to manage thoracic esophageal leak after esophagectomy; the choice for operational approach in surgery of cardioesophageal crossing; the advantages of robot esophagectomy; the place of open esophagectomy; the advantages of esophagectomy compared to definitive chemoradiotherapy; the pathologist report in the resected specimen; the best way to manage patients with unsuspected positive microscopic margin after ER; enhanced recovery after surgery for ER: expedited care protocols; and long‐term quality of life in patients following esophagectomy.
Adenocarcinoma at the gastroesophageal junction
Authors: Al‐Haddad Sahar , Chang Andrew C. , De Hertogh Gert , Grin Andrea , Langer Rupert , Sagaert Xavier , Salemme Marianna , Streutker Catherine J. , Soucy Geneviève , Tripathi Monika , Upton Melissa P. , Vieth Michael , Villanacci Vincenzo
Published: September 2014

The following, from the 12th OESO World Conference: Cancers of the Esophagus, includes commentaries on the clinical differences between carcinomas arising slightly above, slightly below, and within the gastroesophageal junction (GEJ); information provided by biopsies; information provided by resection specimens following neoadjuvant therapy; histologic differences existing between carcinomas arising slightly above, slightly below, and within the GEJ; differences provided by immunohistochemistry in these tumors; information given by endoscopic mucosal resection specimens; the role of esophageal pyloric gland adenomas as precursors of adenocarcinomas in the region of the cardia; the role of pancreatic metaplasia; Her2 immunoreactivity to make distinctions in the site of origin; and intestinal metaplasia limited to the cardia as a precursor of adenocarcinoma.
Validation of predictive equations for resting energy expenditure in Japanese pediatric Crohn's disease patients: Preliminary study
Authors: Arai Katsuhiro , Funayama Rie , Takahashi Mieko , Sakai Rie , Shimizu Hirotaka , Obayashi Naho , Matsui Akira
Published: September 2014

Background

Predictive equations are often used to estimate resting energy expenditure (REE). Determining the appropriate equation for different patient types, however, remains inconclusive, as in the case of Japanese children with Crohn's disease (CD). The aim of this study was to identify an appropriate predictive equation for measuring REE in Japanese children with CD.

Methods

Twelve Japanese children with CD managed at the National Center for Child Health and Development in Tokyo, Japan, were studied. REE (kcal/day) was measured using indirect calorimetry. The predictive equations used were the Japanese Dietary Reference Intakes (2010), the Schofield equation, the Food and Agriculture Organization/World Health Organization/United Nations University (FAO/WHO/UNU) equation and the Cunningham equation. Difference between predicted and measured REE was analyzed on Bland–Altman plot.

Results

Japanese Dietary Reference Intakes (2010) had the smallest difference between predicted and measured REE. Weight was the primary predictor of REE on multiple regression analysis. As well, Japanese Dietary Reference Intakes (2010) had the highest ratio of weight to predicted REE (98.5%).

Conclusions

Of the four equations, Japanese Dietary Reference Intakes (2010) appeared to be the most practical and accurate predictive equation for REE in Japanese children with CD.
Managing Supply Disruptions when Sourcing from Reliable and Unreliable Suppliers
Authors: Hu Bin , Kostamis Dimitris
Published: September 2014

We study a manufacturer's optimal multiple‐sourcing strategies when some but not all suppliers face risks of complete supply disruptions. Using an approximate model, we show that the optimal unreliable orders are ranked by a simple and intuitive criterion, and are invariant of minor market size changes. Furthermore, when ordering from one reliable and one unreliable supplier, we show that the total order quantity and its allocation between the two suppliers are independent decisions. We then test and confirm the robustness of the insights without the approximation, as well as when we relax various assumptions.
Global transcriptional profiling of a cold‐tolerant rice variety under moderate cold stress reveals different cold stress response mechanisms
Authors: Zhao Junliang , Zhang Shaohong , Yang Tifeng , Zeng Zichong , Huang Zhanghui , Liu Qing , Wang Xiaofei , Leach Jan , Leung Hei , Liu Bin
Published: September 2014

Gene expression profiling under severe cold stress (4°C) has been conducted in plants including rice. However, rice seedlings are frequently exposed to milder cold stresses under natural environments. To understand the responses of rice to milder cold stress, a moderately low temperature (8°C) was used for cold treatment prior to genome‐wide profiling of gene expression in a cold‐tolerant japonica variety, Lijiangxintuanheigu (LTH). A total of 5557 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were found at four time points during moderate cold stress. Both the DEGs and differentially expressed transcription factor genes were clustered into two groups based on their expression, suggesting a two‐phase response to cold stress and a determinative role of transcription factors in the regulation of stress response. The induction of OsDREB2A under cold stress is reported for the first time in this study. Among the anti‐oxidant enzyme genes, glutathione peroxidase (GPX) and glutathione S‐transferase (GST) were upregulated, suggesting that the glutathione system may serve as the main reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenger in LTH. Changes in expression of genes in signal transduction pathways for auxin, abscisic acid (ABA) and salicylic acid (SA) imply their involvement in cold stress responses. The induction of ABA response genes and detection of enriched cis‐elements in DEGs suggest that ABA signaling pathway plays a dominant role in the cold stress response. Our results suggest that rice responses to cold stress vary with the specific temperature imposed and the rice genotype.
Comparison of objective criteria and expert visual interpretation to classify benign and malignant hilar and mediastinal nodes on 18‐F FDG PET/CT
Authors: Nguyen Phan , Bhatt Manoj , Bashirzadeh Farzad , Hundloe Justin , Ware Robert , Fielding David , Ravi Kumar Aravind S.
Published: September 2014

Background and objective

There is widespread adoption of FDG‐PET/CT in staging of lung cancer, but no universally accepted criteria for classifying thoracic nodes as malignant. Previous studies show high negative predictive values, but reporting criteria and positive predictive values varies. Using Endobronchial ultrasound transbronchial needle aspiration (EBUS‐TBNA) results as gold standard, we evaluated objective FDG‐PET/CT criteria for interpreting mediastinal and hilar nodes and compared this to expert visual interpretation (EVI).

Methods

A retrospective review of all patients with lung cancer who had both FDG‐PET/CT and EBUS‐TBNA from 2008 to 2010 was performed. Scan interpretation was blinded to histology. Patients from 2008/2009 were used for the prediction set. The validation set analysed patients from 2010. Objective FDG‐PET/CT criteria were SUVmax lymph node (SUVmaxLN), ratio SUVmaxLN/SUVmax primary lung malignancy, ratio SUVmaxLN/SUVaverage liver, ratio SUVmaxLN/SUVmax liver and ratio SUVmaxLN/SUVmax blood pool. A nuclear medicine physician reviewed all scans and classified nodal stations as benign or malignant.

Results

Eighty‐seven malignant lymph nodes and 41 benign nodes were in the prediction set. All objective FDG‐PET/CT criteria analysed were significantly higher in the malignant group (P < 0.0001). EVI correctly classified 122/128 nodes (95.3%). Thirty‐four malignant nodes and 19 benign nodes were in the validation set. The new proposed cut‐off values of the objective criteria from the prediction set correctly classified 44/53 (83.0%) nodes: 28/34 (82.4%) malignant nodes and 16/19 (84.2%) benign nodes. EVI had 91% accuracy: 33/34 (97.1%) malignant nodes and 15/19 (79.0%) benign nodes.

Conclusions

Objective analysis of 18‐F FDG PET/CT can differentiate between malignant and benign nodes but is not superior to EVI.
Selection of Less Biased Threshold Angles for SAM Classification Using the Real Value–Area Fractal Technique
Authors: Shahriari Hadi , Ranjbar Hojjatollah , Honarmand Mehdi , Carranza Emmanuel John M.
Published: September 2014

The accuracy of classification of the Spectral Angle Mapping (SAM) is warranted by choosing the appropriate threshold angles, which are normally defined by the user. Trial‐and‐error and statistical methods are commonly applied to determine threshold angles. In this paper, we discuss a real value–area (RV–A) technique based on the established concentration–area (C–A) fractal model to determine less biased threshold angles for SAM classification of multispectral images. Short wave infrared (SWIR) bands of the Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflection Radiometer (ASTER) images were used over and around the Sar Cheshmeh porphyry Cu deposit and Seridune porphyry Cu prospect. Reference spectra from the known hydrothermal alteration zones in each study area were chosen for producing respective rule images. Segmentation of each rule image resulted in a RV–A curve. Hydrothermal alteration mapping based on threshold values of each RV–A curve showed that the first break in each curve is practical for selection of optimum threshold angles. The hydrothermal alteration maps of the study areas were evaluated by field and laboratory studies including X–ray diffraction analysis, spectral analysis, and thin section study of rock samples. The accuracy of the SAM classification was evaluated by using an error matrix. Overall accuracies of 80.62% and 75.45% were acquired in the Sar Cheshmeh and Seridune areas, respectively. We also used different threshold angles obtained by some statistical techniques to evaluate the efficiency of the proposed RV–A technique. Threshold angles provided by statistical techniques could not enhance the hydrothermal alteration zones around the known deposits, as good as threshold angles obtained by the RV–A technique. Since no arbitrary parameter is defined by the user in the application of the RV‐A technique, its application prevents introduction of human bias to the selection of optimum threshold angle for SAM classification.
An Early Paleozoic Inter‐Platform Shelf in the Southwest of Tarim Basin, NW China and its Significance for Petroleum Exploration
Authors: Zhiqian Gao , Tailiang Fan
Published: September 2014

An early Paleozoic inter‐platform, platform, slope and shelf succession comprised of five Cambrian to mid‐Ordovician seismic sequences, has been identified in the southwestern part of the Tarim Basin. A previously unknown, elongate shelf succession that extends from east to west transects the Taxinan area of the southwestern Tarim Basin. It was flanked by carbonate platforms and platform margins, and by peri‐platform margin slopes on its north and south sides. The Markit platform margin and slope, located along the northern side of the shelf, extended nearly linearly west to east with some headlands and embayments towards the east. The Tangnan platform margin and slope, located along the southern side of the shelf, extended southwest to northeast and was more sinuous with pronounced northwest‐directed headlands flanked by embayments. Differentiation of these settings began in earliest Cambrian time during continental breakup. Initially, broad gentle slopes flanked an open shelf seaway in Cambrian time. In Early Ordovician time, the Markit and Tangnan platform margins became more distinct and rimmed, and were flanked by slightly steeper, but still very gentle slopes. During their deposition, these platform margins and their adjoining slopes exhibited some lateral migration, with a slight overall widening of the open shelf seaway between them from Cambrian to Ordovician time. The presence of these platform margin and slope successions in the southwestern area of the Tarim basin provides another focus for petroleum exploration and discovery of additional carbonate reef‐shoal reservoirs in the Markit and Tangnan areas. The adjoining deep‐water shelf shale and mudstone shelf succession itself is an additional prospective petroleum source rock in close proximity to these potential reef‐shoal reservoirs.
Textural and Chemical Evolution of Unidirectional Solidification Textures in Highly Differentiated Granitic Rocks at Kharaatyagaan, Central Mongolia
Authors: Erdenebayar Jamsran , Ogata Takeyuki , Imai Akira , Sereenen Jargalan
Published: September 2014

Unidirectional solidification texture (UST) in an aplite body is recognized in the Neoproterozoic highly differentiated granitic rocks at Kharaatyagaan, central Mongolia. On the basis of crystal morphology, two main types of UST were identified in the aplite body: (i) thin crenulate UST layers; and (ii) thick intergrowth UST layers. Bulk geochemistry indicates that the Kharaatyagaan UST‐bearing aplite and aplite dike are alkaline, and are enriched in light rare‐earth elements. Scanning electron microscopy and cathadoluminescence imaging of UST quartz from Kharaatyagaan show four types of quartz: euhedral quartz phenocrysts with well‐developed concentric growth zoning (Qa1) in the aplite; euhedral quartz with weak growth zoning in the aplite (Qa2); UST quartz exhibiting distinct growth zones (Qu1); and UST quartz showing mosaic texture (Qu2). Crystallization temperatures determined by the Ti‐in‐quartz geothermometer of Qa1 and Qu1 quartz range between around 500°C and 780°C and Qa2 and Qu2 range between about 490° and 630°C. The cathodoluminescence textures of quartz are predominantly caused by variations in the trace elements contents of quartz. The Qa1 and Qu1 quartz crystals are characterized by high Ti and Al concentrations in the quartz lattice, and are observed in the bottom of the Kharaatyagaan hill, which formed in the early, less evolved magmatic stage. The Qa2 and Qu2 UST quartz characterized by low Ti and variable Al concentrations are found at the top. The UST layers crystallized along the upper part of the magma chamber in the presence of fluid phases exsolved from felsic magma.
Changes in lung function during an extreme mountain ultramarathon
Authors: Vernillo G. , Rinaldo N. , Giorgi A. , Esposito F. , Trabucchi P. , Millet G. P. , Schena F.
Published: September 2014

This study aimed to assess the effects of an extreme mountain ultramarathon (MUM, 330 km, 24 000 D+) on lung function. Twenty‐nine experienced male ultramarathon runners performed longitudinally [before (pre), during (mid), and immediately after (post) a MUM] a battery of pulmonary function tests. The tests included measurements of forced vital capacity, forced expiratory volume in 1 s, peak flow, inspiratory capacity, and maximum voluntary ventilation in 12 s (MVV12). A significant reduction in the running speed was observed (−43.0% between pre‐mid and mid‐post; P < 0.001). Expiratory function declined significantly at mid (P < 0.05) and at post (P < 0.05). A similar trend was observed for inspiratory function (P < 0.05). MVV12 declined at mid (P < 0.05) and further decreased at post (P < 0.05). Furthermore, there are significant negative correlations between performance time and MVV12 pre‐race (R = −0.54, P = 0.02) as well as changes in MVV12 between pre‐ and post‐race (R = −0.53, P = 0.009). It is concluded that during an extreme MUM, a continuous decline in pulmonary function was observed, likely attributable to the high levels of ventilation required during this MUM in a harsh mountainous environment.
Assessing the agronomic benefit of noninversion tillage for improving soil structure following winter grazing of cattle and sheep
Authors: Laurenson S. , Houlbrooke D. J.
Published: September 2014

Severe treading damage to soils often occurs when cattle and sheep graze standing forage crops during winter. Soil recovery is a long process that may take several months if not years. Noninversion tillage can speed up the recovery process by improving drainage and air diffusion. This research assessed the ongoing benefit of noninversion tillage for improving soil structure relative to non‐tillage. This assessment was made following a land‐use transition from winter forage cropping to re‐establishment of seasonal pasture that was rotationally grazed by cattle or sheep. Prior to commencement of this study, the research site had poor soil structure due to four consecutive years of cattle and sheep grazing of winter forage crops [macroporosity (0–100 mm) <0.075 and 0.113 m3/m3 under cattle and sheep, respectively]. Tillage was effective in increasing soil macroporosity to ca. 0.175 m3/m3 under both grazing classes, which was significantly higher than nontilled soils (ca. 0.140 m3/m3, 0–100 mm depth). Improvements gained from tillage generally did not persist longer than 18 months. Average annual pasture production in tilled plots was 22.1 and 20.9 tons of dry matter per hectare (t DM/ha) for respective cattle‐ and sheep‐grazed plots, while in the nontilled plots, it was 19.1 and 18.6 t DM/ha, respectively. Results indicate noninversion tillage can provide an immediate increase in the porosity of compacted soils and improve pasture growth. However, processes involved in the formation of resilient soil aggregates are curtailed if subsequent grazing events coincide with high moisture content that causes recompaction.
Computing boundary extensions of conformal maps
Authors: McNicholl Timothy H.
Published: September 2014

We show that a computable and conformal map of the unit disk onto a bounded domain $\def \xmlpi #1{}\def \mathsfbi #1{\boldsymbol {\mathsf {#1}}}\let \le =\leqslant \let \leq =\leqslant \let \ge =\geqslant \let \geq =\geqslant \def \Pr {\mathit {Pr}}\def \Fr {\mathit {Fr}}\def \Rey {\mathit {Re}}D$ has a computable boundary extension if $D$ has a computable boundary connectivity function.
Thermodynamic Analysis of Thermal Responses in Horizontal Wellbores
Authors: Ayala H. Luis F. , Dong Ting
Published: September 2014

Wellbore models are required for integrated reservoir management studies as well as optimization of production operations. Distributed temperature sensing (DTS) is a smart well technology deployed for permanent downhole monitoring. It measures temperature via fiber optic sensors installed along horizontal wellbores. Correct interpretation of DTS surveys has thus become of utmost importance and analytical models for analysis of temperature distribution behavior are critical. In this study, we first show how thermodynamic analysis can describe in detail the physical changes in terms of pressure and temperature behavior from the simplest cases of “leaky tank” to the horizontal wellbore itself. Subsequently, rigorous single-phase thermodynamic models for energy, entropy, and enthalpy changes in horizontal wellbores are derived starting from 1D conservative mass, momentum, and energy balance equations and a generalized thermal models, along with their steady-state temperature profile subsets, are presented. Steady-state applications are presented and discussed. The analysis presents the factors controlling horizontal wellbore steady-state temperature responses and demonstrates that wellbore thermal responses are neither isentropic nor isenthalpic and that the isentropic expansion-driven models and Joule–Thompson-coefficient (JTC) driven may be used interchangeably to analysis horizontal wellbore thermal responses.
Experimental Study on the Effect of Hydrogen Enrichment of Methane on the Stability and Emission of Nonpremixed Swirl Stabilized Combustor
Authors: Sanusi Yinka S. , Habib Mohamed A. , Mokheimer Esmail M. A.
Published: September 2014

An ultra lean mixture (ϕ ≤ 0.5) of methane–hydrogen–air was experimentally investigated to explore the effect of fuel flexibility on the flame stability and emission of a nonpremixed swirl stabilized combustor. In order to isolate the effect of hydrogen addition to methane, experiments were carried out at fixed fuel energy input to the combustor while increasing the hydrogen content from 0% up to 50% in the methane–hydrogen mixture on volume basis. The combustor fuel energy was then increased up to the range of typical gas turbine combustors. Equivalence ratio sweep was carried out to determine the lean stability limit of the combustor. Results show that the hydrogen content in the fuel mixture and fuel energy input have a coupled effect on the combustor lean blow off velocity (LBV), temperature and emissions. The LBV increases by ∼103% with the addition of 30% H2. On the other hand, the LBV increases by ∼20% as the fuel energy increases from 1.83 MW/m3 to 2.75 MW/m3. Burning under ultra lean condition serves two purposes. (1) The excess air supplied reduces the overall combustor temperature with its ensuing effect on low NOx formation. (2) It increases the overall combustor volume flow rate which reduces the residence time for NOx formation. The axial temperature profile presented along with the emission data can serve as basis for the validation of numerical models. This would give more insight onto the effect of hydrogen on the turbulence level and how it would improve the localized extinction of methane in a cost-effective way.
Optical Design of Multisource High-Flux Solar Simulators
Authors: Bader Roman , Haussener Sophia , Lipiński Wojciech
Published: September 2014

We present a systematic approach to the design of a set of high-flux solar simulators (HFSSs) for solar thermal, thermochemical, and materials research. The generic simulator concept consists of an array of identical radiation modules arranged in concentric rows. Each module consists of a short-arc lamp coupled to a truncated ellipsoidal specular reflector. The positions of the radiation modules are obtained based on the rim angle, the number of concentric rows, the number of radiation modules in each row, the reflector radius, and a reflector spacing parameter. For a fixed array of radiation modules, the reflector shape is optimized with respect to the source-to-target radiation transfer efficiency. The resulting radiative flux distribution is analyzed on flat and hemispherical target surfaces using the Monte Carlo ray-tracing technique. An example design consists of 18 radiation modules arranged in two concentric rows. On a 60-mm dia. flat target area at the focal plane, the predicted radiative power and flux are 10.6 kW and 3.8 MW m−2, respectively, and the predicted peak flux is 9.5 MW m−2.
Natural Frequencies of Plate Supported Thermowells
Authors: Bartran David S.
Published: September 2014

An idealized model of a welded-flange thermowell is used to establish the role of flange thickness in natural frequency estimates. It is found that for thermowell diameters comparable to flange thickness, the support compliance of the thermowell/flange interface approaches that expected for a semi-infinite support. This allows the interface to be treated as a boundary condition rather than requiring a detailed deflection analysis of the flange. This finding is supported by published measurement data and independent finite element calculations for rigidly supported, welded-flange thermowells.
The Effect of Varying Fiber Characteristics on the Simultaneous Measurement of Heat and Momentum Transfer to Flowing Fiber Suspensions
Authors: Kazi S. N. , Duffy G. G. , Chen X. D.
Published: September 2014

Heat transfer and pressure loss measurements were obtained simultaneously for a range of wood pulp fiber suspensions flowing in a pipeline. Data were obtained over a selected range of flow rates and temperatures from a specially built flow loop. It was found that the magnitude of the heat transfer coefficient was above water at equivalent experimental conditions and at very low fiber concentrations, but progressively decreased until it was below water at slightly higher concentrations. Similar trends were obtained for the pressure drop measurements obtained simultaneously, showing good correspondence between the two sets of data. It was found that both heat and momentum transfer are affected in a closely similar way by varying fiber properties, such as fiber length, fiber flexibility, fiber chemical and mechanical treatment, the variation of fibers from different parts of the tree, as well as the different pulping methods used to liberate the fibers from the wood structure. Drag reduction increased and heat transfer coefficient decreased with increasing fiber flexibility as found by previous workers.
An Overview of Seven National High Performance Coach Education Programs
Authors: Callary Bettina , Culver Diane , Werthner Penny , Bales John
Published: September 2014

High quality education programs across the globe could help coaching move forward as a profession. Although there have been suggestions to improve sports coaching education programs by integrating theory and practice through alternative learning approaches such as mentoring and critical refection (Armour, 2010; Cushion, Armour, & Jones, 2003), it is unclear whether such approaches have been implemented in coach education programs and how different countries are educating their coaches. The purpose of this paper is to describe how seven high performance coach education programs are educating coaches and to what extent they are employing alternative learning approaches. The goals, curricula, and pedagogical approaches are described and implications for the professionalization of coaching are discussed.
Comparison of Intrapulmonary and Systemic Pharmacokinetics of Colistin Methanesulfonate (CMS) and Colistin after Aerosol Delivery and Intravenous Administration of CMS in Critically Ill Patients
Authors: Boisson Matthieu , Jacobs Matthieu , Grégoire Nicolas , Gobin Patrice , Marchand Sandrine , Couet William , Mimoz Olivier
Published: September 2014

Colistin is an old antibiotic that has recently gained a considerable renewal of interest for the treatment of pulmonary infections due to multidrug-resistant Gram-negative bacteria. Nebulization seems to be a promising form of administration, but colistin is administered as an inactive prodrug, colistin methanesulfonate (CMS); however, differences between the intrapulmonary concentrations of the active moiety as a function of the route of administration in critically ill patients have not been precisely documented. In this study, CMS and colistin concentrations were measured on two separate occasions within the plasma and epithelial lining fluid (ELF) of critically ill patients (
n
= 12) who had received 2 million international units (MIU) of CMS by aerosol delivery and then intravenous administration. The pharmacokinetic analysis was conducted using a population approach and completed by pharmacokinetic-pharmacodynamic (PK-PD) modeling and simulations. The ELF colistin concentrations varied considerably (9.53 to 1,137 mg/liter), but they were much higher than those in plasma (0.15 to 0.73 mg/liter) after aerosol delivery but not after intravenous administration of CMS. Following CMS aerosol delivery, typically, 9% of the CMS dose reached the ELF, and only 1.4% was presystemically converted into colistin. PK-PD analysis concluded that there was much higher antimicrobial efficacy after CMS aerosol delivery than after intravenous administration. These new data seem to support the use of aerosol delivery of CMS for the treatment of pulmonary infections in critical care patients.