bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The choices, choosing model of quality of life: linkages to a science base
Authors: Gurland Barry J. , Gurland Roni V.
Published: October 2008

Background

A previous paper began with a critical review of current models and measures of quality of life and then proposed criteria for judging the relative merits of alternative models: preference was given to finding a model with explicit mechanisms, linkages to a science base, a means of identifying deficits amenable to rational restorative interventions, and with embedded values of the whole person. A conjectured model, based on the processes of accessing choices and choosing among them, matched the proposed criteria. The choices and choosing (c–c) process is an evolved adaptive mechanism dedicated to the pursuit of quality of life, driven by specific biological and psychological systems, and influenced also by social and environmental forces.

Objective

In this paper the c‐c model is examined for its potential to strengthen the science base for the field of quality of life and thus to unify many approaches to concept and measurement.

Conclusions

A third paper in this set will lay out a guide to applying the c–c model in evaluating impairments of quality of life and will tie this evaluation to corresponding interventions aimed at relieving restrictions or distortions of the c–c process; thus helping people to preserve and improve their quality of life. The fourth paper will demonstrate empirical analyses of the relationship between health imposed restrictions of options for living and conventional indicators of diminished quality of life. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cognitive, functional and behavioral factors associated with the burden of caring for geriatric patients with cognitive impairment or depression: evidence from a South American sample
Authors: Machnicki Gerardo , Allegri Ricardo F. , Dillon Carol , Serrano Cecilia M. , Taragano Fernando E
Published: October 2008

Objective

To examine behavioral, cognitive and functional factors associated with psychosocial burden in caregivers of geriatric patients.

Methods

Primary caregivers assessed were included if the geriatric patient cared for had a cognitive impairment or dementia (degenerative, vascular or mixed) (Group 1) or depression and cerebrovascular disease (CVD) (Group 2). Caregivers completed the Zarit questionnaire, the Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI) and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADL). Patients were evaluated for dementia severity using the Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR), Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) and Beck Depression Inventory (BDI). Structural equation modelling (SEM) was used to assess measurement models and the factors associated with burden.

Results

Two hundred and fifty‐eight caregiver–patient pairs were included. The best model fit was obtained with a model with two constructs: function‐cognition (CDR, MMSE, and IADL) and behavior (neuropsychiatric symptoms from the NPI). In Group 1, both function (B = 0.32. T = 2.79) and behavior (B = 0.72, T = 7.84) were significantly correlated with caregiver burden, although the strength of association was more than two times higher for behavior. In Group 2, behavior was related to caregiver burden (B = 0.68, T = 6) but not function‐cognition (B = 0.16, T = 1.36).

Conclusion

These findings suggest that behavioral symptoms are an important factor associated with caregiver burden in patients with cognitive impairment, dementia, or depression, while functional and cognitive factors seem to also have an influence in patients with cognitive impairment. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Subclinical atherosclerosis is weakly associated with lower cognitive function in healthy hyperhomocysteinemic adults without clinical cardiovascular disease
Authors: Gatto Nicole M. , Henderson Victor W. , St. John Jan A. , McCleary Carol , Detrano Robert , Hodis Howard N. , Mack Wendy J.
Published: October 2008

Objective

Atherosclerosis is the most common pathologic process underlying cardiovascular disease (CVD). It is not well known whether subclinical atherosclerosis is an independent risk factor for lower cognitive function among individuals without clinically evident CVD.

Methods

We examined cross‐sectional associations between subclinical atherosclerosis and cognitive function in a community‐based sample of otherwise healthy adults with plasma homocysteine ≥8.5 µmol/L enrolled in the BVAIT study (n = 504, mean age 61 years). Carotid artery intima‐media thickness (CIMT), coronary artery calcium (CAC) and abdominal aortic calcium (AAC) were used to measure subclinical atherosclerosis. Cognitive function was assessed with a battery of neuropsychological tests. A principal components analysis was used to extract five uncorrelated cognitive factors from scores on individual tests, and a measure of global cognition was derived. Multivariable linear regression was used to examine the association between subclinical atherosclerosis and cognitive function, adjusting for other correlates of cognition.

Results

Increasing thickness of CIMT was associated with significantly lower scores on the verbal learning factor (β = −0.07 per 0.1 mm increase CIMT [SE(β) = 0.03], p = 0.01). CAC and AAC were not individually associated with any of the cognitive factors.

Conclusions

This study provides evidence that increasing CIMT is weakly associated with lower verbal learning abilities but not global cognition in a population of otherwise healthy middle‐to‐older aged adults with elevated plasma homocysteine levels but without clinically evident CVD. The association between CIMT and poor verbal learning may pertain particularly to men. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Behavioral health needs and problem recognition by older adults receiving home‐based aging services
Authors: Gum Amber M. , Petkus Andrew , McDougal Sarah J. , Present Melanie , King‐Kallimanis Bellinda , Schonfeld Lawrence
Published: October 2008

Objective

Older adults' recognition of a behavioral health need is one of the strongest predictors of their use of behavioral health services. Thus, study aims were to examine behavioral health problems in a sample of older adults receiving home‐based aging services, their recognition of behavioral health problems, and covariates of problem recognition.

Methods

The study design was cross‐sectional. Older adults (n = 141) receiving home‐based aging services completed interviews that included: Structured Clinical Interview for DSM‐IV; Brief Symptom Inventory‐18; attitudinal scales of stigma, expectations regarding aging, and thought suppression; behavioral health treatment experience; and questions about recognition of behavioral health problems.

Results

Thirty (21.9%) participants received an Axis I diagnosis (depressive, anxiety, or substance); another 17 (12.1%) were diagnosed with an adjustment disorder. Participants were more likely to recognize having a problem if they had an Axis I diagnosis, more distress on the BSI‐18, family member or friend with a behavioral health problem, and greater thought suppression. In logistic regression, participants who identified a family member or friend with a behavioral health problem were more likely to identify having a behavioral health problem themselves.

Conclusions

Findings suggest that older adults receiving home‐based aging services who recognize behavioral health problems are more likely to have a psychiatric diagnosis or be experiencing significant distress, and they are more familiar with behavioral health problems in others. This familiarity may facilitate treatment planning; thus, older adults with behavioral health problems who do not report familiarity of problems in others likely require additional education. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comparing the behavior of different polypropylene meshes (heavy and lightweight) in an experimental model of ventral hernia repair
Authors: Bellón J. M. , Rodríguez M. , García‐Honduvilla N. , Gómez‐Gil V. , Pascual G. , Buján J.
Published: October 2008

New generation prosthetic biomaterials for abdominal wall repair have been designed to be less dense, by having larger pores than that of the standard polypropylene meshes, to improve abdominal wall compliance. The aim of the present study was to analyze the functional and morphologic properties of these new meshes. For this purpose, 7 × 5 cm2 defects were created in the anterior abdominal wall of 36 male New Zealand White rabbits and repaired using different polypropylene meshes: a heavyweight mesh (HW), Surgipro, and two lightweight meshes (LW), Parietene and Optilene. Six animals each implanted with biomaterial were sacrificed on postoperative days 14 and 90. Histological and morphometric analysis, adhesion assessment, and biomechanical resistance tests were performed. Similar behavior was shown by the LW and HW meshes in terms of the adhesions and macrophage response induced. After 14 days, the tensile strength of Optilene was greater than the strengths recorded for the other two biomaterials, probably because of its high elasticity. By 90 days, however, the tensile strengths of the three biomaterials were comparable. In conclusion, despite an initial tensile strength advantage shown by the mesh with larger pores, at 90 days postimplant, tensile strengths were similar. Compared with HW, LW prostheses have the benefit that less foreign material was implanted, preserving the elasticity of the recipient host tissue. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2009
MRI detects increased coronary wall thickness in asymptomatic individuals: The multi‐ethnic study of atherosclerosis (MESA)
Authors: Macedo Robson , Chen Shaoguang , Lai Shenghan , Shea Steven , Malayeri Ashkan A. , Szklo Moyses , Lima João A.C. , Bluemke David A.
Published: October 2008

Purpose

To evaluate the use of coronary wall MRI as a measure of atherosclerotic disease burden in an asymptomatic population free of clinical cardiovascular disease. Coronary wall magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a noninvasive method for evaluation of arterial wall remodeling associated with atherosclerosis.

Materials and Methods

Asymptomatic participants of the Multi‐Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA) study were studied using black blood MRI. MRI‐assessed coronary wall thickness was compared with computed tomography calcium score, carotid intimal‐medial thickness, and risk factors for coronary artery disease.

Results

Eighty‐eight arterial segments were evaluated in 38 MESA participants (mean age, 61.3 ± 8.7 years). The maximum coronary wall thickness was greater for participants with two or more cardiovascular risk factors than for those with one or no risk factors (2.59 ± 0.33 mm vs. 2.36 ± 0.30 mm, respectively, P = 0.05.) For participants with zero calcium score, the mean and maximum coronary wall thickness for subjects with two or more risk factors for coronary artery disease were greater than the wall thickness for subjects with one or no risk factors (mean thickness: 1.95 ± 0.17 mm vs. 1.7 ± 0.19 mm; maximum thickness: 2.67 ± 0.24 mm vs. 2.32 ± 0.27 mm, respectively, P < 0.05). Subjects with increased carotid intimal‐medial thickness also had increased coronary artery wall thickness (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Coronary artery wall MRI detects increased coronary wall thickness in asymptomatic individuals with subclinical markers of atherosclerotic disease and in individuals with zero calcium score. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Quality of visitor attractions, satisfaction, benefits and behavioural intentions of visitors: verification of a model
Authors: Nowacki Marek M.
Published: October 2008

This study is an attempt to verify a model of relations between motivation, quality of product of attraction, benefits, satisfaction and behavioural intentions of visiting people. The data for the analysis were collected from 1770 visitors in four tourist attractions of the Wielkopolska and Kujawy regions. It was noted that the effect of performance of service provider on behavioural intentions takes the route through benefits gained by the visitors. Benefits have a stronger total effect on behavioural intentions than visitors' satisfaction. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Milk – A new source for bioactive phospholipids for use in food formulations
Authors: Burling Hans , Graverholt Gitte
Published: October 2008

The fat globules of milk are surrounded by a membrane, which contains a triple layer of phospholipids. Concentrated cream is thus a very good raw material for further processing in order to make a powder, enriched in phospholipids. A powder can in this way easily be produced with 20% phospholipids using only common dairy processes such as centrifugation and membrane filtration. Milk phospholipids differ in compositions from existing commercial sources such as soybean lecithins and egg lecithins particularly with respect to the content of two bioactive phospholipids namely sphingomyelin (about 24%) and phosphatidylserine (12%). Sphingomyelin is an active agent controlling the intestinal uptake of cholesterol and triacylglycerols in human nutrition. Intake of phosphatidyl serine has clinically documented effects in maintaining cognitive performance like memory and stress control. A milk phospholpids enriched product thus offers a 100% natural alternative to the well‐established, semi‐synthetic head‐group exchanged phosphatidyl serine from soy lecithin now existing on the market for functional foods formulations.
Toward accurate quantification of metabolites, lipids, and macromolecules in HRMAS spectra of human brain tumor biopsies using LCModel
Authors: Opstad Kirstie S. , Bell B. Anthony , Griffiths John R. , Howe Franklyn A.
Published: October 2008

High‐resolution magic angle spinning (HRMAS) 1H MR spectroscopy of biopsy samples provides detailed biochemical profiles that can be related to the lower‐resolution spectra obtained in vivo. Nevertheless, there is still significant overlap of many resonance peaks and contributions from broad lipid and macromolecule resonances that impede accurate quantification. We determined a minimum set of in vitro metabolite and simulated lipid and macromolecule resonances needed for LCModel analysis and quantification of brain tumor biopsy HRMAS spectra. We also demonstrate the quality of the LCModel fit for the four main brain tumor types (astrocytoma grade II, glioblastoma, metastasis, and meningioma). Our data suggest that when fitting resonances of coupled spins systems in high‐resolution spectra, interactions between metabolites and the macromolecular environment of the biopsy may cause small peak shifts not found in the solution spectra. However, LCModel is shown to provide a user‐independent method of analyzing HRMAS brain tumor spectra. Magn Reson Med, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Adjoint‐based quasi‐Newton methods for partially separable problems
Authors: Schlenkrich Sebastian , Walther Andrea
Published: October 2008

In this paper the concepts of partitioned quasi‐Newton methods are applied to adjoint Broyden updates. Consequently a corresponding partitioned adjoint Broyden update is presented and local convergence results are given. Numerical results compare the partitioned adjoint Broyden update methods to the corresponding unpartitioned quasi‐Newton method and to Newton's method for nonlinear equations. (© 2008 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Approaches to learning on placement: the students' perspective
Authors: Kell Clare , Owen Gwyneth
Published: October 2008

Background and Purpose. With Continuing Professional Development activity, a requirement of Allied Health Professional registration in the UK and said to be most effectively supported by practitioners who adopt a deep approach to learning, a UK university has been exploring how its pre‐registration curriculum influences learner development. This paper investigates the possible influences of the clinical placement component of the curriculum that is structured as four 4‐week blocks during both Years 2 and 3 of the 3‐year BSc (Hons) programme. A range of placement models are used within this structure including the traditional 1:1 educator : student ratio and those that have a higher ratio of student(s) : educator(s). Methods. This phase of the larger project used a case study design framed about students from two academic year groups on one UK undergraduate, pre‐registration physiotherapy programme. Three questionnaires comprising a learning approaches inventory, a demographic questionnaire and a placement self‐assessment form were posted to Year 2 and 3 students during one clinical placement. The students were invited to complete the questionnaires halfway through their placement, but in advance of the first, formal placement education feedback meeting. The need for students' self‐assessment prevented follow‐up data collection. Results. Analysis of the data from the learning approaches inventory against the demographic variables and placement assessment scores suggest that students' learning strategies depend upon the number of students, educators and assessors involved in their placement. The paper explores the possible links between placement experience, learning strategy and academic outcome. The authors question assumptions about the perceived benefits of some placement education models. Conclusion. Increasing the ratio of student : educator or educator : student may have a detrimental effect on students' learning development when placements are of 4‐week duration. If such placement models are adopted, then students and placement educators must be adequately prepared and supported so that students' learning development towards the deep‐learning autonomous professionals of tomorrow can continue through placement education. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cervarix, a bivalent HPV vaccine to prevent cervical cancer
Authors: Chaplin Steve , Nicholas Nick
Published: October 2008

Cervarix, a bivalent vaccine against HPV‐16 and ‐18, is licensed for the prevention of cervical cancer and has been chosen for the HPV immunisation programme. In our New products review, Steve Chaplin presents the clinical data relating to its efficacy and adverse effects, and Mr Nick Nicholas comments on its place in HPV protection. Copyright © 2008 Wiley Interface Ltd
Tinea capitis: diagnosis and recommended management
Authors: Fuller Claire
Published: October 2008

Our series Prescribing in children gives practical advice for successful management of childhood problems in general practice. Here, the author describes how to recognise tinea capitis, the available treatment options and prevention of transmission. Copyright © 2008 Wiley Interface Ltd
Plasma modification of polyolefin surfaces
Authors: Lee Keun Taik , Goddard Julie M. , Hotchkiss Joseph H.
Published: October 2008

In order to functionalize the surface of blown low‐density polyethylene (LDPE) and cast polypropylene (CPP) films, and ultimately to maximize the attachment of active molecules onto them, the optimum treatment parameters of capacitively‐coupled radio‐frequency (13.56 MHz) oxygen plasma were investigated by using contact angle, toluidine blue dye assay, X‐ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS) and Attenuated Total Reflectance Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (ATR‐FTIR). Contact angle values of LDPE and CPP samples decreased significantly after oxygen plasma treatment. They further decreased as the plasma power level increased. The treatment time had no substantial effect on contact angle value. The optimum treatment conditions for LDPE and CPP films for maximizing carboxyl functionality without causing observable surface changes were found to be 200 W/200 mTorr and 250 W/50 mTorr, respectively, when treated for 3 min. The maximum carboxyl group concentration obtained with LDPE and CPP films were 0.46 and 0.56 nmol/cm2, respectively. The percent of oxygen atoms on the surface of plasma‐treated LDPE and CPP films was determined by XPS analysis to be 22.6 and 28.7%, respectively. The ATR‐FTIR absorption bands at 1725–1700 cm−1 confirmed the presence of carboxylic acids on LDPE and CPP films. By exposing the plasma‐treated sample to air rather than water and treating films repeatedly with oxygen plasma, a higher carboxyl group concentration could be obtained. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometric study on the effect of N‐terminal β‐ and γ‐carbo amino acids on fragmentation of GABA‐hybrid peptides
Authors: Ramesh V. , Ramesh M. , Srinivas R. , Sharma G. V. M. , Jayaprakash P.
Published: October 2008

The fragmentations of protonated and deprotonated ions of a new class of N‐blocked hybrid Boc‐carbopeptides containing repeats of γ‐Caa/γAbu‐ and β‐Caa/γAbu‐ (CaaC‐linked carbo γ4‐/β3‐ amino acids derived from D‐xylose, γAbu = γ‐aminobutyric acid) have been studied using electrospray ionization (ESI) ion‐trap tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS). MS/MS of a pair of these protonated diastereomers produces distinct fragmentation of the Boc group. The formation of [M + H–56]+ corresponding to loss of isobutylene is more pronounced for Boc‐NH‐(R)‐γ‐Caa‐γAbu‐OH (2) whereas it is of low abundance for Boc‐NH‐(S)‐γ‐Caa‐γAbuOH (1). Similarly, MS2 of [MH]− of 2 produces an abundant [MHC(CH3)3OHCO2]− ion, which is absent for its diastereomeric isomer 1. From this, it can be suggested that MS/MS of N‐blocked Boc‐protected carbopeptides may be helpful in distinguishing the stereochemistry of the N‐terminus Caa. MS3 of [M + H–Boc + H]+ ions of peptides with a γ‐amino acid (γ‐Caa/γAbu) at the N‐terminus produces only abundant y ions. On the other hand, characteristic fragmentations involving the peptide backbone (b and y) and the side chain are seen when β‐Caa is at the N‐terminus of the peptides. MS3 of the [MHC(CH3)3OH]− ion of peptides containing γ‐Caa/γAbu at the N‐terminus gave y and [MHC(CH3)3OHCO2]− ions, whereas the presence of β‐Caa at the N‐terminus yielded predominantly [MHC(CH3)3OHHNCO]−. Thus, on the basis of our previous study and that presented here we propose that the fragmentation of these hybrid carbopeptides is highly influenced by the type of carbo amino acid present at the N‐terminus. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Furofuranic glycosylated lignans: a gas‐phase ion chemistry investigation by tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Ricci Andreina , Fiorentino Antonio , Piccolella Simona , Golino Annunziata , Pepi Federico , D'Abrosca Brigida , Letizia Marianna , Monaco Pietro
Published: October 2008

Alkali metal cation adducts, [M+Alk]+, and [M–H]− ions of four known glycosylated furofuran lignans, (+)‐pinoresinol 4‐O‐β‐D‐glucopyranoside, (+)‐phylliroside, (+)‐8‐hydroxypinoresinol 4‐O‐β‐D‐glucopyranoside, and (+)‐8‐hydroxypinoresinol 8‐O‐β‐D‐glucopyranoside, recently isolated from Carex distachya, were generated by electrospray ionization and allowed to undergo collisionally activated dissociation (CAD) in a quadrupole ion trap (QIT) and in a triple quadrupole (TQ) mass spectrometer. CAD mass spectra of [M+Na]+ and [M+Li]+ adducts revealed the presence of structurally diagnostic product ions. CAD mass spectra of deprotonated glycosylated furofuran lignans showed the typical neutral loss of 162 Da when the glucose residue was bound to a phenolic oxygen atom. When glycosylation occurred at an alcoholic oxygen, as for (+)‐8‐hydroxypinoresinol 8‐O‐β‐D‐glucopyranoside, a neutral loss of 180 Da represented the main fragmentation pathway. Selective hydrogen/deuterium (H/D) exchange of all the acidic hydrogen atoms of furofuran glycosides, performed by introducing lignan glycosides in D2O/CH3OD solutions, were employed to obtain information on the nature of the product ions generated during TQ/CAD processes. Energy‐resolved TQ/CAD mass spectra of deprotonated lignan glycosides and their deprotonated aglycones were used in a qualitative way to infer information on the integrated energetic picture of CAD fragmentations and to investigate the mechanism of the predominant dissociation/isomerization processes. On the basis of the hypothesized fragmentation mechanisms, gas‐phase features of the furofuran ring were derived. The presence of an OH substituent in the C8 position decreased the electron density in the adjacent C8′ position, modifying the fragmentation pathway. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Network invariants for real-time systems
Authors: Grinchtein Olga , Leucker Martin
Published: October 2008

We extend the approach of model checking parameterized networks of processes by means of
network invariants
to the setting of
real-time systems
. We introduce
timed transition structures
(which are similar in spirit to timed automata) and define a notion of
abstraction
that is
safe
with respect to linear temporal properties. We strengthen the notion of abstraction to allow a finite system, then called
network invariant
, to be an abstraction of networks of real-time systems. In general the problem of checking abstraction of real-time systems is undecidable. Hence, we provide sufficient criteria, which can be checked automatically, to conclude that one system is an abstraction of a concrete one. Our method is based on timed
superposition
and
discretization
of timed systems. We exemplify our approach by proving mutual exclusion of a simple protocol inspired by Fischer’s protocol, using the model checker TLV.
Long‐Term Changes in Parathyroid Function After Subtotal Thyroidectomy for Graves’ Disease
Authors: Yano Yukiko , Nagahama Mitsuji , Sugino Kiminori , Ito Kunihiko , Ito Koichi
Published: October 2008

Background

Transient hypocalcemia is one of the postoperative complications of thyroidectomy for Graves’ disease, and perioperative parathyroid hormone (PTH) assays are used to predict postoperative hypocalcemia. We evaluated long‐term changes in parathyroid function after surgery for Graves’ disease.

Methods

Serum PTH values were measured in Graves’ patients with postoperative hypocalcemia, and those patients were followed postoperatively.

Results

Subtotal thyroidectomy was performed in 275 patients with Graves’ disease. Their serum calcium levels were measured on postoperative day (POD) 1, and patients with transient postoperative hypocalcemia were treated with calcium and vitamin D supplementation and followed up. The amount of calcium and vitamin D supplementation was adjusted to keep the patient’s serum calcium level within the normal range. Measurement of their serum intact PTH value on POD 1 revealed normal value in 18 patients, a below normal level in 22, and an above normal level in the other 2. During the follow‐up period, the serum iPTH values remained normal in 12 patients, recovered to the normal level in 21 patients, and rose above the normal range in 9 patients. The serum iPTH values of all patients eventually reached the normal range during the follow‐up period. A marked difference in preoperative serum alkaline phosphatase concentration was observed between the high‐iPTH patients and the normocalcemic patients.

Conclusions

The phenomenon of an elevated serum PTH level after surgery for Graves’ disease was observed in 21% of the patients with postoperative hypocalcemia despite the achievement of normal serum calcium levels by calcium and vitamin D supplementation.
Accuracy of Frozen Section Analysis Versus Specimen Radiography During Breast‐Conserving Surgery for Nonpalpable Lesions
Authors: Weber Walter P. , Engelberger Stephan , Viehl Carsten T. , Zanetti‐Dallenbach Rosanna , Kuster Salome , Dirnhofer Stephan , Wruk Daniela , Oertli Daniel , Marti Walter R.
Published: October 2008

Background

Whereas specimen radiography (SR) is an established strategy for intraoperative resection margin analysis during breast‐conserving surgery for nonpalpable lesions, the use of frozen section analysis (FSA) is still a matter of debate.

Methods

A retrospective review was conducted of 115 consecutive operations in which the two objectives sought were the excision of nonpalpable malignant lesions and breast conservation. Breast surgery was performed in the Gynecology and the Surgery Departments at the Basel University Hospital Breast Center. Whereas one department preferably uses SR for intraoperative margin assessments of lesions involving ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) or atypical ductal hyperplasia, the other uses FSA to increase the rate of complete removal of these lesions with a single procedure. The respective accuracy and therapeutic impact of these two techniques are compared here.

Results

Intraoperative resection margin assessments were performed with FSA in 80 and SR in 35 of a total of 115 operations performed on 111 patients with pTis, pT1, or pT2 nonpalpable breast cancer. FSA diagnostic accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity were 83.8%, 80.0%, and 87.5%, respectively, compared to 60%, 60%, and 60%, respectively, for SR. FSA tended to have a stronger therapeutic impact than SR in terms of the number of patients in whom initially positive margins were rendered margin‐negative thanks to intraoperative analysis and immediate reexcision or mastectomy (27.5% vs. 14.3%; p = 0.124). More importantly, significantly fewer secondary reexcisions were performed in the FSA series than in the SR series (12.5% vs. 37.1%; p = 0.002). Finally, the intraoperative detection of invasive cancer with FSA led to a significantly lower number of secondary procedures for axillary lymph node staging (5% vs. 25.7%; p = 0.001).

Conclusions

The present results suggest that FSA may be more accurate than SR for analyzing intraoperative resection margins during breast‐conserving surgery for nonpalpable lesions.
Legacies of Garrod's brilliance. One hundred years—and counting
Authors: Rosenberg L. E.
Published: October 2008

One hundred years ago—in 1908—Archibald Garrod delivered his four Croonian Lectures. In these formerly forgotten, but now famous, dissertations, Garrod first used the expression, ‘inborn errors of metabolism’, to describe four rare disorders: albinism, alkaptonuria, cystinuria, and pentosuria. This prescient work proposed that such disorders resulted from enzymatic defects in the catabolic pathways for amino acids and sugars. Thus, Garrod can rightfully be called the first human geneticist. Much influenced by his colleague Bateson, who brought Mendel's work to his attention, Garrod then was the first to apply Gregor Mendel's law of gene segregation to humans, the first to propose recessive inheritance in humans, and the first to point out the importance of consanguinity. He even mentioned the role of ethnicity in inherited disorders. This would have been legacy enough, but Garrod did much more. He wrote about such other ‘modern’ topics as genetic predisposition to common disorders; the critical importance of physicians who were also scientists; and the proper role of the university in society. Although Garrod's work and ideas were not appreciated during his lifetime, they have echoed and reverberated ever since. He can rightly be deemed one of the most profound intellectuals of the 20th century, whose bequests to science and medicine continue to increase in value. All of us who study inborn errors of metabolism and who apply our knowledge in the hope of improving the diagnosis and treatment of affected patients are, in a genuine sense, Garrodians.
Metabolism as a complex genetic trait, a systems biology approach: Implications for inborn errors of metabolism and clinical diseases
Authors: Vockley Jerry
Published: October 2008

Multifactorial and polygenic inheritance is commonly recognized for many genetic conditions including physical anomalies, complex congenital malformation syndromes, and even common disorders such as adult‐onset diabetes mellitus. It has only recently been suggested as a mechanism for inheritance in inborn errors of metabolism. This article reviews the phenomenon of multiple partial enzyme deficiencies leading to clinical relevant biochemical derangements (synergistic heterozygosity) and its implications for other more common disorders such as diabetes and obesity.
Views on Abortion: A Comparison of Female Genetic Counselors and Women from the General Population
Authors: Woltanski Amelia R. , Cragun Ryan T. , Myers Melanie F. , Cragun Deborah L.
Published: October 2008

While literature characterizing individual genetic counselors’ abortion attitudes is sparse, the National Society of Genetic Counselors takes a clear stance for reproductive autonomy. To determine genetic counselors’ views, this study compared (1) genetic counselors’ abortion attitudes to those of women from the general population and (2) genetic counselors’ professional abortion attitudes to their personal abortion attitudes. Genetic counselors were invited to complete an online survey. Response rate was 44.3% (709/1,601). Compared to women from the general population, female genetic counselors were significantly more likely to agree abortion should be an option in all cases (p < .001). Controlling for other possible confounders, regression analyses revealed that being a genetic counselor, religious service attendance and age were significantly predictive of abortion attitudes. Although the vast majority of genetic counselors agree that abortion should be available, they are significantly less likely to personally consider abortion under all circumstances presented (p < .001), and the percentage of genetic counselors who would consider terminating in the case of a severe birth defect is similar to studies of other women.
A single lysis solution for the analysis of tissue samples by different proteomic technologies
Authors: Gromov Pavel , Celis Julio E. , Gromova Irina , Rank Fritz , Timmermans-Wielenga Vera , Moreira José M.A.
Published: October 2008

Cancer, being a major healthcare concern worldwide, is one of the main targets for the application of emerging proteomic technologies and these tools promise to revolutionize the way cancer will be diagnosed and treated in the near future. Today, as a result of the unprecedented advances that have taken place in molecular biology, cell biology and genomics there is a pressing need to accelerate the translation of basic discoveries into clinical applications. This need, compounded by mounting evidence that cellular model systems are unable to fully recapitulate all biological aspects of human dissease, is driving scientists to increasingly use clinically relevant samples for biomarker and target discovery. Tissues are heterogeneous and as a result optimization of sample preparation is critical for generating accurate, representative, and highly reproducible quantitative data. Although a large number of protocols for preparation of tissue lysates has been published, so far no single recipe is able to provide a “one‐size fits all” solubilization procedure that can be used to analyse the same lysate using different proteomics technologies. Here we present evidence showing that cell lysis buffer 1 (CLB1), a lysis solution commercialized by Zeptosens [a division of Bayer (Schweiz) AG], provides excellent sample solubilization and very high 2D PAGE protein resolution both when using carrier ampholytes and immobilized pH gradient strips. Moreover, this buffer can also be used for array‐based proteomics (reverse‐phase lysate arrays or direct antibody arrays), allowing the direct comparison of qualitative and quantitative data yielded by these technologies when applied to the same samples. The usefulness of the CLB1 solution for gel‐based proteomics was further established by 2D PAGE analysis of a number of technically demanding specimens such as breast carcinoma core needle biopsies and problematic tissues such as brain cortex, cerebellum, skeletal muscle, kidney cortex and tongue. This solution when combined with a specific sample preparation technique – cryostat sectioning of frozen specimens – simplifies tissue sample preparation and solves most of the difficulties associated with the integration of data generated by different proteomic technologies.
The Distribution of Finite Values of Meromorphic Functions with Deficient Poles
Authors: Kendall G. F.
Published: October 2008

A result is presented giving conditions on a set of open discs in the complex plane that ensure that a transcendental meromorphic function with Nevanlinna deficient poles omits at most one finite value outside the set of discs. This improves a previous result of Langley, and goes some way towards closing a gap between Langley's result and a theorem of Toppila in which the omitted values considered may include ∞
Genetic Diversity and Agricultural Potential in Phaseolus vulgaris L
Authors: Froussios George , Hutchinson Joseph
Published: October 2008

To assess the potentialities of Ph. vulgaris for haricot type bean production in Britain, a large collection of types was surveyed. One hundred varieties, mostly but not exclusively bush types, were grown both in the greenhouse and in the field. Characters of agronomic importance were evaluated. The morphological basis of the difference between the climbing and the bush habit was shown to be the interaction between two character contrasts, indeterminate versus determinate vegetative growth, and long versus short internodes. The four classes resulting from this interaction were identified and are described. Flowering habit, pod type and seed size were surveyed. Among the bush beans, wide variation in day length sensitivity in flowering was shown, and it is clear that day length neutral types can easily be selected. Among the determinate dwarfs, pods are either leathery or fleshy. Leathery types dry out readily, and do not dehisce freely in the field, and are therefore agronomically desirable in dry bean production. Fleshy pods are used for culinary purposes. The indeterminate bush types included in this survey have parchmented pods, which tend to dehisce when dry, and hence are subject to crop loss in the field. A wide range of seed size and seed colour is available for selection according to requirement. Two small variety trials yielded evidence that Colombian determinate bush types grow and crop satisfactorily within the limits of the growing season in eastern England. From two spacing trials, optimum within-row spacing was deduced.
Effects of Soil Moisture Stress on Two Varieties of Upland Cotton in Israel I. The Coastal Plain Region
Authors: Marani A. , Amirav A.
Published: October 2008

Effects of moisture stress during different stages of cotton development were examined in two experiments when temperatures were mild and evapotranspiration less than 6 mm./day. Two varieties of upland cotton, Acala 4–42 and Deltapine Smoothleaf, were affected similarly. Moisture stress at the beginning of flowering reduced growth rate and the numbers of flowers and bolls. During the second half of the flowering period it reduced the percentage of boll retention, boll number, boll weight, seed index, lint index and lint length. Stress during boll development had similar effects and caused earlier maturity. Lint yield was reduced significantly by moisture stress during each of the periods but tensile strength of lint was not affected. Three irrigations, if properly timed so that no appreciable moisture stress occurred, were sufficient for high yields and good quality of lint, and the first could be postponed until after flowering began without any loss in yield.
Effects of Soil Moisture Stress on Two Varieties of Upland Cotton in Israel II. The Northern Negev Region
Authors: Shimshi D. , Marani A.
Published: October 2008

The effects of moisture stress at various stages of development were studied on two varieties of cotton in the arid Negev region of Israel. Experiments over two years indicated that the stage at which moisture stress occurred determined its effect: when at the beginning of flowering, yield was considerably reduced; at the peak of flowering there was a less pronounced effect; and when stress occurred during boll development it had an effect in only one year, when reserves of moisture in the deep soil layers were low. Lint yield ranged from 380 kg./ha. without irrigation to 2150 kg./ha. with five irrigations. Effects on lint length and lint strength were also studied. Two physiological indices, stomatal aperture and refractive index of leaf sap, were used to determine the onset of moisture stress.
Effects of Depth of Submergence, Fertilization and Cultivation on Water Requirement and Yield of Rice
Authors: Pande H. K. , Mittra B. N.
Published: October 2008

Under the three levels of submergence (0, 5 and 10 cm. depths), water requirement of rice was maximum at 10 cm. but crop performance was similar to that at 5 cm. With medium and high levels of fertilization the crop had a higher water requirement than under low level, for ‘aus’ and ‘aman’ crops. Compacted soil compared well with puddled soil, but water requirement was appreciably higher with shallow puddling. In the two seasons water requirement, transpiration, evaporation and percolation losses were greater under submergence, and only transpiration was greater under higher levels of fertilization. Transpiration was maximum at flowering stage.
Population and Spacing Studies with Malawian Groundnut Cultivars
Authors: Laurence R. C. N.
Published: October 2008

The effects of plant population on the yields of four commercially important Malawian groundnut cultivars have been investigated. Pod number per plant was found to be the most variable component, bearing an inverse relationship to plant density. Kernel weight and shelling percentage were low at reduced populations, and yields and kernel size declined at very high populations. The effect of plant habit upon spacing requirement is discussed and recommendations are made.
Onset and Rate of Root Bulking in Cassava
Authors: Wholey Douglas W. , Cock James H.
Published: October 2008

Thirteen cultivars of cassava were planted, widely spaced, and harvested after two, three, five and seven months. Differences in root yield after seven months were caused by variations in rate of root bulking, and were not associated with differences in onset of root bulking, which occurred during the second month of growth in all varieties that produced thickened roots.
Boron Deficiency on Cotton in Northern Nigeria II. The Effect of Variety
Authors: Smithson J. B. , Heathcote R. G.
Published: October 2008

Cotton varieties differ in their sensitivity to boron deficiency. Breeding for tolerance of deficiency offers some scope for yield increases under the prevailing non-intensive conditions under which most of the crop is grown in northern Nigeria, but cannot be considered a complete solution to the problem.
Effects of Intercropping Maize with Pigeon Peas on Grain Yield and Nutrient Uptake
Authors: Dalal R. C.
Published: October 2008

Intercropping maize with pigeon peas, in a mixed stand or in alternate rows, significantly reduced the grain yield of maize but not of pigeon peas. Maize grown alone produced the maximum grain yield ha.−1 week−1, whereas maize and pigeon peas grown in alternate rows produced maximum proteins ha.−1 week−1 and absorbed the maximum amounts of potassium, calcium and magnesium. Pigeon peas grown in a pure stand produced minimum grain yield and proteins ha.−1 week−1, and absorbed minimum amounts of nutrients. The problem of intercropping maize with pigeon peas under optimum nitrogen fertilization is discussed.
Use of Sweet Potato (Ipomoea batatas) Leaf Tips as Vegetables I. Evaluation of Morphological Traits
Authors: Villareal R. L. , Lin S. K. , Chang L. S. , Lai S. H.
Published: October 2008

There is wide variation in the morphological characteristics of sweet potato leaf tips which are acceptable as a vegetable for human consumption. Thus many cultivars are available from which further selections can be made for yield, palatability, tenderness, flavour, and nutritional quality. A list is given of some cultivars which combine a number of desirable traits.
Storage of Cassava Chips (Manihot esculenta): Insect Infestation and Damage
Authors: Parker Bruce L. , Booth Robert H.
Published: October 2008

Insects cause serious problems during the storage of cassava chips, when quality may be reduced and significant quantities of the product consumed. The major species naturally infesting chips were Rhizopertha dominica, Lasioderma serricorne and Araecerus fasciculatus. Infestation occurs during the sun-drying process, and up to 16% reduction in chip weight due to insect feeding was recorded after 2 months storage. Chips that had not received any pre-drying storage, but contained salt as a preservative, were infested by fewer insects than chips without salt. The poorest quality chips had significantly more insects than better quality ones.
Effect of Preceding Grain Legumes on Dryland Pearl Millet in NW India
Authors: Giri Gajendra , De Rajat
Published: October 2008

Yields of pearl millet were significantly increased when grown after legume crops such as groundnut (22·6%), cowpea (24·2%) or pigeonpea (12·1%) instead of after pearl millet. A previous crop of short-duration mung did not affect the yield of pearl millet. Benefits from previous crops of groundnut and cowpea were equivalent to about 60 kg N/ha applied to a pearl millet crop following a previous crop of pearl millet.
Symbiosis, Nitrogen and Dry Matter Distribution in Chickpea (Cicer arietinum)
Authors: Evans J.
Published: October 2008

In symbiotically-dependent chickpea, nodule mass and rates of nitrogenase activity increased when vegetative growth increased rapidly, but declined during fruiting. The specific activity of nodules declined as their mass rapidly increased. Nodule mass and rates of nitrogenase activity varied between genotypes, as did the point of maximum activity, which in some genotypes occurred before fruit growth dominated shoot growth. Current N2-fixation supplied most of the nitrogen for pod and seed growth, but in some genotypes mobilization of nitrogen from vegetative parts was evident. Seed attracted up to 50% of assimilated nitrogen; residual nitrogen was contained mainly in leaf and pod tissue, though in one genotype stem nitrogen was plentiful.
Gas Exchange of Four Cassava Cultivars in Relation to Light Intensity
Authors: Palta Jairo A.
Published: October 2008

Gas exchange measurements were carried out on four cassava cultivars, M. COL22, M. MEX59, M. COL638, and M. VEN218, under a range of light intensities, to investigate possible differences in photosynthesis and transpiration. Over the range of photon flux density 100–1500 μE m−2 s−1 leaves showed a light saturation response typical of C-3 plants with little increase in photosynthetic rate above 1000–1500 μE m−2 s−1 (200–300 Wm−2 PAR). At light saturation there were significant differences in photosynthetic rates between cultivars, with the highest 10% greater than the lowest. Part of the response could be attributed to increased stomatal aperture, and a greater part to a direct effect of light intensity on the photosynthetic apparatus. Transpiration increased with light intensity levels, but no significant differences were observed between cultivars.
Light Transmission and Pasture Composition Under Smallholder Coconut Plantations in Malaita, Solomon Islands
Authors: Litscher T. , Whiteman P. C.
Published: October 2008

Fourteen smallholder coconut plantations, subdivided into 27 uniform sub-units, were surveyed in an area around Dala, in Western Malaita, Solomon Islands. Most units (17 out of 27) had densities of 160–200 palms ha−1 with a median light transmission of 50–55%. Palm growth was poor due to low soil K, and copra yields averaged only 540 kg ha−1 year−1 Batiki (Ischaemum aristatum) was the most important sown grass, and its productivity was significantly related to stocking rate and weed control, but not directly with light transmission. Farmers should thin dense palm stands, adjust stocking rates in relation to actual areas of pasture available, and institute careful and adequate weed control.