bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Breast Magnetic Resonance Imaging: An Overview for Nonradiologists
Authors: Margolies Laurie , Ha Richard
Published: December 2009

Magnetic resonance imaging is a major component of breast imaging. Many studies have shown that magnetic resonance imaging is the most sensitive imaging method for detecting invasive breast cancer in comparison with mammography, ultrasound, and clinical breast examinations. Evidence‐based clinical indications for breast magnetic resonance imaging include screening patients at high risk for breast cancer, including those with breast/ovarian cancer genes (BRCA1 and BRCA2), those who are untested first‐degree relatives of carriers of these genes, those whose lifetime risk of developing breast cancer is 20% to 25% or greater, those who had chest radiation when they were 10 to 30 years old, and those who have or are first‐degree relatives of people with Li‐Fraumeni syndrome, Cowden syndrome, or Bannayan‐Riley‐Ruvalcaba syndrome. Breast magnetic resonance imaging is performed in conjunction with mammography and does not replace mammography. Outside of the screening population, utilization of breast magnetic resonance imaging for newly diagnosed breast cancer patients and its use as a problem‐solving technique for equivocal mammographic or clinical findings remain controversial. An understanding of the current evidence facilitates appropriate utilization of this important medical resource. This article discusses indications for ordering breast magnetic resonance imaging and how to read the breast magnetic resonance imaging report and understand the lexicon used. Mt Sinai J Med 76:598‐605, 2009. © 2009 Mount Sinai School of Medicine
Chemotherapy for Gynecologic Cancers
Authors: Rahaman Jamal , Steiner Norma , Hayes Monica Prasad , Chuang Linus , Fishman David , Gretz III Herbert
Published: December 2009

This review highlights significant recent developments and trends in chemotherapy for major gynecologic malignancies, i.e., ovarian cancer, endometrial cancer, uterine sarcomas, gestational trophoblastic neoplasia, and cervical cancer. In ovarian cancer, chemotherapeutic options for early, advanced and recurrent disease are in the adjuvant setting as well as in the neoadjuvant setting are explored. For uterine cancer, adjuvant chemotherapy is employed for high risk epithelial subtypes with early disease, such as uterine papillary serous carcinomas, uterine carcinosarcomas and leiomyosarcomas, advanced stage cases, as well as recurrent disease. The review then proceeds to further discuss the appropriate treatment based on the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics prognostic scoring system for gestational trophoblastic neoplasia. Finally, chemotherapy is utilized in cervical cancer as neo‐adjuvant therapy prior to surgery or radiation, as a sensitizer concomitantly with radiation therapy or for the treatment of advanced and recurrent disease. Mt Sinai J Med 76:577‐588, 2009. © 2009 Mount Sinai School of Medicine
A Comprehensive Approach to the Treatment of Uterine Leiomyomata
Authors: Stein Karen , Ascher‐Walsh Charles
Published: December 2009

Leiomyomas (fibroids) are the most common tumors in women, with a prevalence between 30% and 50%. They affect women primarily during their reproductive years, spontaneously regressing after menopause in most women. They may cause significant symptoms of pain, dysmenorrhea, abnormal uterine bleeding, and infertility. Because leiomyomas are so common, treatment should be reserved for those patients with symptoms. Treatment options have recently expanded beyond hysterectomy. Medical therapies, including gonadotropin‐releasing hormone agonists and progesterone modulators, have become more widely used. Less invasive options such as uterine fibroid embolization, magnetic resonance imaging–guided focused ultrasound, and radiofrequency ablation are being used to avoid more invasive surgery. Because of limited and negative information regarding these alternatives to surgery, they are not recommended for women desiring future fertility. If surgery is desired or required, often less invasive approaches via hysteroscopy for intracavitary lesions or robot‐assisted laparoscopy for patients with a small number of myomas have become preferred options. Treatment should be tailored to the patient. Mt Sinai J Med 76:546‐556, 2009. © 2009 Mount Sinai School of Medicine
Obesity and Pregnancy: Implications and Management Strategies for Providers
Authors: Shirazian Taraneh , Raghavan Sreekala
Published: December 2009

Obesity in pregnancy (pregravid body mass ≥30) has been linked to several adverse pregnancy outcomes, including spontaneous abortion, preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, fetal macrosomia, cesarean delivery, and wound complications post–cesarean section. Intrapartum and postpartum management of obese gravidas requires multidisciplinary consultations between obstetricians, anesthesiologists, nurses, and pediatricians in order to improve the pregnancy outcomes of the mother and neonate. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists currently supports risk‐reducing strategies for obese pregnant patients, including limiting weight gain to 15 lb (standardized by the Institute of Medicine). Interventions to reduce gestational weight gain may be important modifiable risk factors for maternal and fetal perinatal complications. Interventions have targeted modifications of diet and exercise with educational methods such as radio broadcasts, pamphlets, and counseling. Interventions have also focused on motivational methods, such as individual and group classes, and have been implemented both before conception and immediately after birth. Effective interventions appear to be individualized in approach, but there is a lack of data to support any specific model. Prospective interventional studies are needed to demonstrate the benefits of weight limitation on pregnancy outcomes. Mt Sinai J Med 76:539‐545, 2009. © 2009 Mount Sinai School of Medicine
Recent Advances in the Surgical Management of Cervical Cancer
Authors: Zakashansky Konstantin , Bradley William H. , Chuang Linus , Rahaman Jamal , Dottino Peter
Published: December 2009

Recent advances in the surgical management of early cervical cancer, including abdominal, laparoscopic, vaginal, and robotic approaches to radical hysterectomy as well as fertility‐sparing radical trachelectomy, are reviewed. The nerve‐sparing abdominal radical hysterectomy technique allows for a significant reduction in postoperative bladder morbidity. Radical vaginal hysterectomy with laparoscopic lymph node dissection is a well‐recognized technique that offers excellent cure rates without abdominal entry as well as reduced postoperative febrile and gastrointestinal morbidity. Total laparoscopic radical hysterectomy is a minimally invasive alternative to the traditional abdominal radical hysterectomy approach and yields a comparable safety profile with a significant reduction in blood loss and hospital stay. Robotic surgery is becoming more widely accepted in the management of gynecologic cancers, including radical hysterectomy for early cervical cancer. Young women desiring to bear children in the future may be candidates for fertility preservation options, and the radical trachelectomy operation has been described and performed with abdominal, vaginal, laparoscopic, and robotic techniques. There are a number of surgical options for the treatment of women with early cervical cancer. The feasibility and safety of some of these techniques have been well established, whereas for others, the oncological outcome data are only preliminary. The decision to use newer techniques should be directed by patient variables as well as the surgeon's training and competence with laparoscopy, robotics, or vaginal surgery. Mt Sinai J Med 76:567‐576, 2009. © 2009 Mount Sinai School of Medicine
Genomics of Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Manace Leslie Cole , Godiwala Tapan N. , Babyatsky Mark W.
Published: December 2009

As the leading cause of death worldwide and a major cause of disability, cardiovascular disease remains a central focus of basic research, pharmacological treatment, surgical interventions, and long‐term care. Inherited, monogenic syndromes have provided insight into pathophysiological mechanisms across the range of cardiovascular diseases. With the advent of post–Human Genome Project resources and technology, there has been a flood of research aimed at genome‐wide predisposition markers, pharmacogenetics, and genomic signatures in complex cardiovascular disorders. Genomic research has both further elucidated the impact of genes previously identified in cardiovascular disease development and progression and discovered genomic regions as yet unknown to be associated with cardiovascular outcomes. The promise of personalized medicine lies in combining this genetic information with other biomarkers to tailor preventive and therapeutic strategies to individual patients for effective management, fewer adverse events, and preventive care. Mt Sinai J Med 76:613‐623, 2009. © 2009 Mount Sinai School of Medicine
Quasi‐static analysis of elastic behavior for some systems having higher fracture densities
Authors: Berryman James G. , Aydin Atilla
Published: December 2009

Elastic behavior of geomechanical systems with interacting (but not intersecting) fractures is treated using generalizations of the Backus and the Schoenberg–Muir methods for analyzing layered systems whose layers are intrinsically anisotropic due to locally aligned fractures. By permitting the axis of symmetry of the locally anisotropic compliance matrix for individual layers to differ from that of the layering direction, we derive analytical formulas for interacting fractured regions with arbitrary orientations to each other. This procedure provides a systematic tool for studying how contiguous, but not yet intersecting, fractured domains interact, and provides a direct (though approximate)
means of predicting when and how such interactions lead to more dramatic weakening effects and ultimately to failure of these complicated systems. The method permits decomposition of the system elastic behavior into specific eigenmodes that can all be analyzed, and provides a better understanding about which of these specific modes are expected to be most important to the evolving failure process. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Use of over‐the‐counter analgesics and perceived stress among 25–44‐year olds
Authors: Koushede Vibeke , Holstein Bjørn E. , Andersen Anette , Ekholm Ola , Hansen Ebba Holme
Published: December 2009

Purpose

To examine the association between perceived stress and use of over‐the‐counter analgesics in a representative sample of 25–44‐year old adults, and to examine the association across various socio‐demographic strata. Furthermore, to examine whether an association between perceived stress and use of over‐the‐counter analgesics attenuates when controlled by potential stress‐related pain and discomfort.

Methods

National representative cross‐sectional study in Denmark. The study population consisted of men and women aged 25–44 years, n = 4739. The survey was conducted by face‐to‐face interviews. The outcome measure was use of over‐the‐counter analgesics (OTCA). The independent variable was perceived stress. Demographic variables and pain and discomfort symptoms were included as covariates.

Results

Analyses stratified by socio‐demographic factors (gender, education, cohabiting status and whether or not the respondents had children) all showed a significant and graded association between stress and OTCA use. The odds for OTCA use mounted with increasing stress. In analyses adjusted for socio‐demographic variables and pain or discomfort the association between stress and OTCA use attenuated somewhat, but remained significant and graded. The crude odds ratio (OR) for OTCA use was 1.36 (1.19–1.55) among participants who sometimes felt stress, and 1.91 (1.58–2.30) among participants who often felt stress, compared to participants without stress.

Conclusion

There was a significant and graded association between perceived stress and OTCA use. The association was robust across all the examined socio‐demographic strata and could not be explained by potential stress‐related pain and discomfort. The results indicate that OTCA are used inappropriately to treat feelings of stress. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Associations of treatment resisting (Type R) and treatment seeking (Type S) personalities in medical students
Authors: Gardiner Catherine , Tsukagoshi Sonia , Nur Ula , Tyrer Peter
Published: December 2009

Most people with personality pathology do not seek help for treatment. This has been formally recognized in the descriptions of treatment resisting (Type R) and treatment seeking (Type S) personalities, but the distribution of these in non‐clinical populations is not known. The associations of Type R and Type S were examined in relationship to personality status using the NEO‐FFI questionnaire and the Schedule for Non‐adaptive and Adaptive Personalities (SNAP) in an unselected population of medical students. One hundred forty‐seven students completed the questionnaires and 60 completed the SNAP interview. Nineteen (13%) of the sample were classified as Type S personalities, the remainder were Type R. Seven (12%) of the sample who completed the SNAP had a personality disorder, three with depressive, three with antisocial and one with obsessive–compulsive personality disorder, and all of these were Type R personalities. Type S personalities had significantly higher scores for neuroticism on the NEO‐FFI (p < 0.002) and showed high correlations with borderline personality traits (r = 0.42), but were negatively associated with antisocial (r = −0.24), histrionic (−0.13) or narcissistic (r = −0.11) personality traits. In this population only a minority of people, those with borderline personality traits and high neuroticism scores, are amenable to interventions aimed at personality change. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Slightly modifying pseudoproline dipeptides incorporation strategy enables solid phase synthesis of a 54 AA fragment of caveolin‐1 encompassing the intramembrane domain
Authors: Coïc Yves‐Marie , Lan Charlotte Le , Neumann Jean‐Michel , Jamin Nadège , Baleux Françoise
Published: December 2009

This work contributes to highlight the benefits of pseudoproline dipeptides introduction in difficult SPPS. We show how a slight modification in the positioning choice conditioned the synthesis achievement of a 54 amino acid long caveolin‐1 peptide encompassing the intramembrane domain. Furthermore, we report a side reaction correlated with the coupling steps and generating truncated fragments with a mass deviation of + 42 Da. Considering the need of structural data for membrane proteins, most of which are considered as prevalent therapeutic targets, chemical synthesis provides an interesting alternative pathway to obtain hydrophobic domains by pushing back the frontiers of conventional RP methods of purification. Copyright © 2009 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
STM–STS investigation of vacuum annealed ZnO nanoribbons
Authors: Maffeis T. G. G. , Penny M. W. , Garbutt J. D. W. , Wilks S. P.
Published: December 2009

We present a scanning tunneling microscopy and spectroscopy (STM–STS) investigation of the effects of ultra high vacuum annealing and oxygen exposure onto ZnO nanoribbons synthesised by chemical vapour deposition. STM imaging revealed a width to height ratio for the nanoribbons between 2:1 and 3:1 and average width and height of 90 and 40 nm, respectively. Imaging before annealing showed the presence of surface contaminants, which were removed after annealing at 800 °C. Analysis of the STS data before annealing shows n‐type behaviour with a band gap of 3.4 eV and an upward band bending of 0.9 eV. Annealing up to 700 °C induced a reduction in surface band bending, towards a near flat band behaviour. After the 800 °C anneal the surface electronic properties were significantly altered, with a large increase of tunnelling current at negative sample bias leading to a narrowing of the apparent surface band gap and a mid gap Fermi level. This change was attributed to a loss of surface lattice oxygen and was found to be reversible upon O2 exposure at room temperature. The anneal/O2 exposure process could lead to a way of cleaning the ZnO nanoribbons without using ion bombardment techniques.
Measurement and analysis of temperature and pressure in high altitude air shipments
Authors: Singh S. P. , Singh J. , Stallings J. , Burgess G. , Saha K.
Published: December 2009

This study was performed (at the request of the FAA) to measure temperature and pressure conditions observed by standard packages in the FedEx ‘Next Day Air’ network and the environmental conditions of passenger aircrafts. To measure the single parcel environment, two destinations known to be served by non‐pressurized feeder and pressurized aircrafts in the USA, San Luis Obispo, California, and Twin Falls, Idaho, were used to represent higher altitude paths. Test packages (0.30 × 0.30 × 0.30 m) containing one MadgeTech PRTemp110 recorder were shipped Priority Overnight by FedEx from East Lansing, Michigan. For 6 weeks, two test packages were shipped to each destination. To measure the passenger aircraft environment, test packages (0.14 × 0.11 × 0.06 m) were both carried in the passenger cabin and checked with luggage. Results show temperature ranges, pressure drop rates, and maximum altitudes observed from 52 flights (17 feeder aircrafts) in the FedEx environment and from eight commercial passenger flights. This study compares these results with the ASTM D6653‐01 test procedure with respect to suggested test pressure, pressure change rate, temperature, and test duration. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Laser effects in excitons in a quantum wire
Authors: Radhakrishnan N. , Peter A. John
Published: December 2009

We investigate the effects of laser field intensity over the ground state binding energy of light and heavy hole excitons confined in GaAs/Ga1−xAlx As cylindrical quantum wire. We have applied the variational method using 1s‐hydrogenic wave functions, in the framework of the single band effective mass approximation with the spatial dielectric function. The polaronic effects are included in the calculation to compute the exciton binding energy as a function of the wire radius for different field of laser intensity. The valence‐band anisotropy is included in our theoretical model by using different hole masses in different spatial directions. The dressed laser donor binding energies are calculated and compared with the results of binding energy of excitons. The results show that (i) the binding energy is found to increase with decrease with the wire radius, and decrease with increase with the value of laser field amplitude, (ii) the heavy‐hole exciton in a cylindrical quantum wire is more strongly bound than the light‐hole exciton, (iii) the values of ground state binding energy for the laser field amplitude α0 = 10 Å resemble with the values of heavy hole exciton binding energy, and (iv) the binding energy of the impurity for the narrow well wire is more sensitive to the laser field amplitude. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2011
Theoretical study on influence of ligand and solvent to CdS clusters
Authors: Xu Shuhong , Wang Chunlei , Cui Yiping
Published: December 2009

Based on the experimental zinc blende and wurtzite structures of CdS nanocrystals, five new CdS clusters (Cd3S3, (Cd3S3)2, (Cd3S3)3, Cd4S4 with C2V, and Cd4S4 with TD symmetry) are investigated via optimization of their original structures at B3LYP/Lanl2dz theoretical level. Through considering integration influence of solvent and ligand, our calculated Raman and absorption spectra can be consistent with the reported experimental results. First, our calculated Raman peaks of Cd3S3, Cd4S4 (TD), (Cd3S3)2, and (Cd3S3)3 are within the range of 260–290 cm−1, which is also reported by experiment. Subsequently, for deep researching five clusters, the absorption spectra of them are calculated using time‐dependent DFT method. The wavelengths of the absorption peaks, which is calculated in solvent, increase in the order Cd3S3, Cd4S4 (TD), (Cd3S3)2, and (Cd3S3)3. Moreover, the wavelengths of absorption peaks shift to blue in solvent, compared with those without solvent. Furthermore, our clusters are smaller than the size of the smallest CdS nanocrystals, the calculated absorption spectra of five clusters in solvent show obvious blue shift than the wavelengths of absorption spectra of reported CdS nanocrystals. This is induced by the quantum size effect. Besides, we further investigated the influence of ligands to CdS unit in aqueous condition. Through structures and characters analysis of SCdSR, we discovered that ligands took important role during the formation of CdS nanocrystals in aqueous synthesis. Calculated results of spectra, bond length, and Wiberg bond index (WBI) values show that different ligands have similar influence on CdS unit. Moreover, using WBI values, we also confirm that Cd atom has stronger interaction with S in nanocrystals than that with S atom in ligand. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2011
A novel single‐electron sodium bond system of H3C···NaY (YH, OH, F, CCH, CN, and NC)
Authors: Li Zhi‐Feng , Zhu Yuan‐Cheng , Zuo Guo‐Fang , Tang Hui‐An , Li Hong‐Yü
Published: December 2009

A novel single‐electron sodium bond system of H3C···NaH (I), H3C···NaOH(II), H3C···NaF(III), H3C···Na‐CCH(IV), H3C···NaCN (V) and H3C···NaNC (VI) complexes has been studied by using MP2/6‐311++G** and MP2/aug‐cc‐pVTZ methods for the first time. We demonstrated that the single‐electron sodium bond H3C···NaY formed between H3C and NaY (YH, OH, F, CCH, CN, and NC) could induce the NaY increased and stretching frequencies of I–IV and VI are red‐shifted, including the NaN bond in complex V is blue‐shifted abnormally. The interaction energies are calculated at two levels of theory [MP2, CCSD(T)] with different basis. The results shows that the strength of binding bond in group 2 (IV–VI) with π electrons are stronger than that of group 1 (I–III) without π electrons. For all complexes, the main orbital interactions between moieties H3C and NaY are LP1(C)→LP*1(Na). By comparisons with some related systems, it is concluded that the strength of single‐electron bond is increased in the order: hydrogen bond < bromine bond < sodium bond < lithium bond. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2011
Enrichment, incorporation and oxidation of copper during anodising of aluminium–copper alloys
Authors: Curioni M. , Roeth F. , Garcia‐Vergara S. J. , Hashimoto T. , Skeldon P. , Thompson G. E. , Ferguson J.
Published: December 2009

Porous anodic oxides generated on copper‐containing aluminium alloys are less regular than anodic oxides generated on pure aluminium. Specifically, a porous oxide morphology comprising layers of embryo pores, generated by a cyclic process of oxide film growth and oxygen evolution, is generally observed. In this work, the relation between the oxidation behaviour of copper during anodising and the specific porous oxide film morphology was investigated by electrochemical techniques, transmission electron microscopy and Rutherford backscattering spectroscopy (RBS). It was found that the anodising potential determines the oxidation behaviour of copper, and the latter determines the porous oxide morphology. At low voltage, relatively straight pores with continuous cell walls were obtained on AlCu alloys, but selective oxidation of aluminium atoms resulted in the occlusion of copper‐containing metallic nanoparticles in the anodic film. At higher potentials, copper oxidation promoted oxygen evolution within the barrier layer, and generation of a less regular film morphology. RBS, performed on AlCu alloy specimens, revealed a high volume fraction of copper atoms in the anodic films generated at low potentials and a reduced amount of copper atoms in the anodic oxide films generated at high potentials. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Application of the Bayesian dynamic survival model in medicine
Authors: He Jianghua , McGee Daniel L. , Niu Xufeng
Published: December 2009

The Bayesian dynamic survival model (BDSM), a time‐varying coefficient survival model from the Bayesian prospective, was proposed in early 1990s but has not been widely used or discussed. In this paper, we describe the model structure of the BDSM and introduce two estimation approaches for BDSMs: the Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) approach and the linear Bayesian (LB) method. The MCMC approach estimates model parameters through sampling and is computationally intensive. With the newly developed geoadditive survival models and software BayesX, the BDSM is available for general applications. The LB approach is easier in terms of computations but it requires the prespecification of some unknown smoothing parameters. In a simulation study, we use the LB approach to show the effects of smoothing parameters on the performance of the BDSM and propose anad hocmethod for identifying appropriate values for those parameters. We also demonstrate the performance of the MCMC approach compared with the LB approach and a penalized partial likelihood method available in software R packages. A gastric cancer trial is utilized to illustrate the application of the BDSM. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
DNA‐adducts in subjects exposed to urban air pollution by benzene and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in Cotonou, Benin
Authors: Ayi‐Fanou Lucie , Avogbe Patrice H. , Fayomi Benjamin , Keith Gerard , Hountondji Codjo , Creppy Edmond E. , Autrup Herman , Rihn Bertrand Henri , Sanni Ambaliou
Published: December 2009

Air pollution effect on humans represents a major public health problem. Exposure to genotoxic compounds in the ambient air is evaluated using different biomarkers. In the present study we assessed DNA‐adducts levels in apparently healthy people living and working in the city of Cotonou (Benin) in which exposure to air pollutants such as benzene and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) mainly benzo(a)pyrene has been evidenced. Rural inhabitants were enrolled as control group. Taxi‐motorbike drivers, street food vendors, and gasoline salesmen were recruited in Cotonou whereas suburban residents were recruited in Godomey, 12 km from Cotonou. We found that taxi‐motorbike drivers, roadside residents, street vendors, taxi‐motor‐bike drivers and gasoline sellers had significantly higher levels of DNA‐adducts than suburban and village inhabitants (P < 0.001; post hoc, LSD). Means values were 24.6 ± 6.4, 23.78 ± 6.9, 34.7 ± 9.8, and 37.2 ± 8.1 in the exposed groups versus 2.1 ± 0.6 and 3.1 ± 0.8 adducts/108 nucleotides, in the two control groups, respectively. We did not find any significant difference within the high exposuregroups and inside low exposure subgroups (namely suburban residents and villagers) because the mean individual exposure values to both PAHs and benzene were similar among subjects exposed in the city of Cotonou and those in suburban and village areas. However, there is significant interindividual variations in adducts levels that may reflect variation of genetic susceptibility factors. Ranges of adduct level/108 nucleotides were: 1–69, 1–76, 3–169, 4–124, 0–9, 0–8 adducts/108 for taxi‐motorbike drivers, roadside residents, street vendors, gasoline sellers, suburban and village inhabitants, respectively. Our study demonstrated a clear‐cut elevated level of DNA adducts in city residents than in none exposed people (or very low exposure levels people) and designate these city residents groups as people at risks for the chronic diseases possibly caused by benzene and PAHs. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol 26: 93‐102, 2011.
The role of oxidative stress in Sudan IV‐induced DNA damage in human liver‐derived HepG2 cells
Authors: Zhang Yue , An Yu , Jiang Liping , Geng Chengyan , Cao Jun , Jiang Lijie , Zhong Laifu
Published: December 2009

Objectives: We evaluated the role of oxidative stress in Sudan IV‐induced DNA damage, using human liver‐derived HepG2 cells. Methods: The DNA damaging effects of Sudan IV in HepG2 cells were evaluated by alkaline single cell gel electrophoresis assay and micronucleus test (MNT). To clarify the underlying mechanisms, we monitored the intracellular generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by 2, 7‐dichlorofluorescein diacetate assay and the level of oxidative DNA damage by immunoperoxidase staining for 8‐hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8‐OHdG). Furthermore, the intracellular glutathione (GSH) level was moderated by pretreatment with buthionine‐(S,R)‐sulfoximine (BSO), a specific GSH synthesis inhibitor. Results: A significant dose‐dependent increment in DNA migration was detected at all tested concentrations (25–100 μM) of Sudan IV. And in the MNT, a significant increase of the frequency of micronuclei was found at higher tested concentrations (50–100 μM). The data suggested that Sudan IV caused DNA strand breaks and chromosome breaks. In addition, significantly increased levels of ROS, 8‐OHdG formation were observed in HepG2 cells. It was also found that depletion of GSH in HepG2 cells with BSO dramatically increased the susceptibility of HepG2 cells to Sudan IV‐induced DNA damage. Conclusions: Based on these data we believe that Sudan IV exerts toxic effects in HepG2 cells, probably through oxidative DNA damage induced by intracellular ROS and depletion of GSH. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Environ Toxicol, 2011.
Diagnosis and management of vasa previa: a questionnaire survey
Authors: Ioannou C. , Wayne C.
Published: December 2009

Objectives

Our aim was to assess the current use of obstetric ultrasound imaging for the diagnosis of asymptomatic vasa previa. We also investigated obstetricians' views on the feasibility of a screening policy and their awareness of risk factors associated with this condition.

Methods

A national postal survey was conducted between March and July 2006. A total of 234 questionnaires were sent to obstetric and fetomaternal consultants across England and Wales. In all, 128 questionnaires were returned, a response rate of 55%.

Results

Most respondents (85%) stated that in their hospital they do not report velamentous cord insertions at the anomaly scan. However, 73% occasionally or routinely document the presence of succenturiate lobes. Only 33% of respondents offered transvaginal scanning for the identification of vasa previa within their hospital, whereas only 6% had ever referred women to a tertiary center for this indication. In all, 34% of the respondents did not identify any risk factor for the condition. Most respondents (80%) would offer an elective Cesarean section if vasa previa was suspected antenatally; the majority would perform it at 38 weeks' gestation. However, only 20% of respondents felt that an effective screening policy is possible.

Conclusions

Despite evidence that perinatal death can be prevented by antenatal diagnosis of vasa previa, most obstetricians in England and Wales feel that a screening policy is not possible. The majority of them would offer an elective Cesarean section for vasa previa at around 38 weeks. There is a need to increase awareness and understanding of the major risk factors for this condition. Copyright © 2009 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Iliac crest angle: a novel sonographic parameter for the prediction of Down syndrome risk during the second trimester of pregnancy
Authors: Lee W. , Balasubramaniam M. , Yeo L. , Hassan S. S. , Gotsch F. , Kusanovic J. P. , Gonçalves L. F. , Romero R.
Published: December 2009

Objectives

To validate a new sonographic technique for the display and measurement of fetal iliac crest angle (ICA), and to determine the relative contribution of standardized fetal pelvic measurements for estimating risk of Down syndrome during the second trimester of pregnancy.

Methods

Three‐dimensional ultrasonography of the fetal pelvis was performed during a second‐trimester scan for genetic amniocentesis. A coronal view of the ‘virtual pelvis’ was obtained by applying a maximum intensity projection algorithm to visualize both iliac wings. Two different ICAs were measured from a coronal projection of the fetal pelvis (ICA‐coronal 1 and ICA‐coronal 2); the latter approach relied on using ischial tuberosities as reference landmarks. Next, a coronal projection of the fetal pelvis was rotated to demonstrate a rendered view of the axial fetal pelvis. Axial inner (ICA‐inner), middle (ICA‐middle) and outer (ICA‐outer) ICAs were measured. The maximum anterior iliac distance measurement was defined as the widest separation between the most anterior points of the rendered iliac crests. The reproducibility of each ICA method was analyzed using Bland–Altman statistics. Simple and multiple logistic regression analysis determined the relative contribution of each parameter as a prenatal predictor of Down syndrome.

Results

Ninety‐four normal fetuses and 19 fetuses with Down syndrome were examined. The ICA‐middle and ICA‐coronal 2 parameters were the most reproducible angle measurements. The mean ± SD ICA‐middle measurement for fetuses with Down syndrome was significantly greater than that for normal subjects (94.5 ± 9.8° vs. 83.1 ± 6.5°; P < 0.001). The mean ± SD ICA‐coronal 2 angle measurement for fetuses with Down syndrome was slightly greater than that for normal subjects (57.9 ± 5.5° vs. 51.9 ± 7.1°; P = 0.0014). A multiple logistic regression model including ICA‐middle and ICA‐coronal 2 provided a predictive ability of 88.1% based on the area under the receiver–operating characteristics curve. This combination had a sensitivity of 94.4% for a false‐positive rate of 5% in the detection of Down syndrome.

Conclusions

Standardized iliac crest measurements of the fetal pelvis can be used to identify some fetuses at risk for trisomy 21 during the second trimester of pregnancy. Copyright © 2009 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Fetal echocardiography: z‐score reference ranges for a large patient population
Authors: Lee W. , Riggs T. , Amula V. , Tsimis M. , Cutler N. , Bronsteen R. , Comstock C. H.
Published: December 2009

Objectives

The main goal was to develop new z‐score reference ranges for common fetal echocardiographic measurements from a large referral population.

Methods

A retrospective cross‐sectional study of 2735 fetuses was performed for standard biometry (biparietal diameter (BPD) and femoral diaphysis length (FDL)) and an assessment of menstrual age (MA). Standardized fetal echocardiographic measurements included aortic valve annulus and pulmonary valve annulus diameters at end‐systole, right and left ventricular diameters at end‐diastole, and cardiac circumference from a four‐chamber view of the heart during end‐diastole. Normal z‐score ranges were developed for these echocardiographic measurements using MA, BPD and FDL as independent variables. This was accomplished by using first standard regression analysis and then weighted regression of absolute residual values for each parameter in order to adjust for inconstant variance.

Results

A simple, linear regression model was the best description of the data in each case and correlations between fetal cardiac measurements and the independent variables were excellent. There was significant heteroscedasticity of standard deviation with increasing gestational age, which also could be modeled with simple linear regression. After this adjustment, the residuals conformed to a normal distribution, validating the calculation and interpretation of z‐scores.

Conclusion

Development of reliable z‐scores is possible for common fetal echocardiographic parameters by applying statistical methods that are based on a large sample size and weighted regression of absolute residuals in order to minimize the effect of heteroscedasticity. These normative ranges should be especially useful for the detection and monitoring of suspected fetal cardiac size and growth abnormalities. Copyright © 2009 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Terms, definitions and measurements to describe the sonographic features of the endometrium and intrauterine lesions: a consensus opinion from the International Endometrial Tumor Analysis (IETA) group
Authors: Leone F. P. G. , Timmerman D. , Bourne T. , Valentin L. , Epstein E. , Goldstein S. R. , Marret H. , Parsons A. K. , Gull B. , Istre O. , Sepulveda W. , Ferrazzi E. , Van den Bosch T.
Published: December 2009

The IETA (International Endometrial Tumor Analysis group) statement is a consensus statement on terms, definitions and measurements that may be used to describe the sonographic features of the endometrium and uterine cavity on gray‐scale sonography, color flow imaging and sonohysterography. The relationship between the ultrasound features described and the presence or absence of pathology is not known. However, the IETA terms and definitions may form the basis for prospective studies to predict the risk of different endometrial pathologies based on their ultrasound appearance. Copyright © 2009 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Glyceraldehyde‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase tetramer dissociation and amyloid fibril formation induced by negatively charged membranes
Authors: Cortez Leonardo M. , Ávila César L. , Torres Bugeau Clarisa M. , Farías Ricardo N. , Morero Roberto D. , Chehín Rosana N.
Published: December 2009

Glyceraldehyde‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) is a multifunctional enzyme related with Huntington's, Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases. The ability of negatively charged membranes to induce a rapid formation of GAPDH amyloid fibrils has been demonstrated, but the mechanisms by which GAPDH reaches the fibrillar state remains unclear. In this report, we describe the structural changes undergone by GAPDH at physiological pH and temperature conditions right from its interaction with acidic membranes until the amyloid fibril is formed. According to our results, the GAPDH‐membrane binding induces a β‐structuring process along with a loss of quaternary structure in the enzyme. In this way, experimental evidences on the initial steps of GAPDH amyloid fibrils formation pathway are provided.
Health effects with consumption of the flax lignan secoisolariciresinol diglucoside
Authors: Adolphe Jennifer L. , Whiting Susan J. , Juurlink Bernhard H. J. , Thorpe Lilian U. , Alcorn Jane
Published: December 2009

Flaxseed is the richest source of the lignan secoisolariciresinol diglucoside (SDG). After ingestion, SDG is converted to secoisolariciresinol, which is further metabolised to the mammalian lignans enterodiol and enterolactone. A growing body of evidence suggests that SDG metabolites may provide health benefits due to their weak oestrogenic or anti-oestrogenic effects, antioxidant activity, ability to induce phase 2 proteins and/or inhibit the activity of certain enzymes, or by mechanisms yet unidentified. Human and animal studies identify the benefits of SDG consumption. SDG metabolites may protect against CVD and the metabolic syndrome by reducing lipid and glucose concentrations, lowering blood pressure, and decreasing oxidative stress and inflammation. Flax lignans may also reduce cancer risk by preventing pre-cancerous cellular changes and by reducing angiogenesis and metastasis. Thus, dietary SDG has the potential to decrease the incidence of several chronic diseases that result in significant morbidity and mortality in industrialised countries. The available literature, though, makes it difficult to clearly identify SDG health effects because of the wide variability in study methods. However, the current evidence suggests that a dose of at least 500 mg SDG/d for approximately 8 weeks is needed to observe positive effects on cardiovascular risk factors in human patients. Flaxseed and its lignan extracts appear to be safe for most adult populations, though animal studies suggest that pregnant women should limit their exposure. The present review discusses the potential health benefits of SDG in humans, with supporting evidence from animal studies, and offers suggestions for future research.
Dietary antioxidant restriction affects the inflammatory response in athletes
Authors: Plunkett Brendan A. , Callister Robin , Watson Trent A. , Garg Manohar L.
Published: December 2009

The purpose of the present study was to determine the effects of dietary antioxidant restriction on plasma concentrations of carotenoids and inflammatory markers at rest and in response to exercise in endurance-trained males. Seventeen males performed two exercise trials 2 weeks apart. Participants followed their habitual antioxidant diet (H-AO) before the first exercise test, then a restricted antioxidant diet (R-AO) for 2 weeks before the second exercise test. Blood was collected pre- and post-exercise. Dietary intakes of fibre, ascorbic acid and β-carotene were lower (P < 0·05) on the R-AO diet, but no other differences were observed. Pre-exercise plasma β-carotene concentrations were lower (H-AO, 195 (sd92); R-AO, 123 (sd54) ng/ml;P < 0·05), and TNF-α concentrations were higher (H-AO, 16 (sd7); R-AO, 613 (sd325) pg/ml;P < 0·01) on the R-AO diet compared to the H-AO diet. Most plasma carotenoid concentrations decreased with exercise, but this effect was more consistent on the H-AO diet. No differences in plasma IL-6 concentrations were observed pre-exercise, whereas post-exercise plasma IL-6 concentrations (H-AO, 30·3 (sd16); R-AO, 15·3 (sd5) pg/ml;P < 0·05) were lower following the R-AO diet. Post-exercise TNF-α concentrations were higher on the R-AO diet. Ratings of perceived effort during submaximal exercise were higher (P < 0·05) on the R-AO diet, but there was no difference in the time to exhaustion between diets. In conclusion, lower dietary intakes of carotenoids alter the plasma concentrations of antioxidants and markers of inflammation at rest and in response to exercise.
Divided We Fall: Opposition Fragmentation and the Electoral Fortunes of Governing Parties
Authors: Maeda Ko
Published: December 2009

This article introduces the concept of opposition fragmentation into the study of the determinants of election results. Empirical studies have demonstrated that anti-government economic voting is likely to take place where the clarity of responsibility (the degree to which voters can attribute policy responsibility to the government) is high. This argument is extended by focusing on the effects of the degree of opposition fragmentation in influencing the extent to which poor economic performance decreases the government’s vote share. With data from seventeen parliamentary democracies, it is shown that when there are fewer opposition parties, the relationship between economic performance and governing parties’ electoral fortune is stronger. Opposition fragmentation appears to be as strong a factor as the clarity of responsibility.
Conceptions of Citizenship in India and the ‘Muslim Question’
Authors: SHANI ORNIT
Published: December 2009

This paper explores the development of multiple conceptions of citizenship in India in an attempt to understand how, despite profound social divisions, India's nationhood holds together. The paper advances the proposition that the Indian polity incorporated a deeply divided and conflict-ridden population by offering multiple notions of citizenship upon which a sense of membership in the nation, and a share in the enterprise of the state, could be sought. By negotiating and balancing distinct overlapping conceptions for competing membership claims in the nation, diverse social groups could find a viable place in the nation, without entirely resigning their various group identities. The analysis focuses as a lens on the Muslim citizens who are amongst the most excluded members in the whole body of Indian citizenry. It provides perspectives into how even some of the most marginalised members in Indian society found sufficient prospects for a meaningful participation within the nation. Multiple conceptions of citizenship enabled the state to manage its diverse social groups and contain many of their underlying conflicts.
Motion control of the 2-DOF parallel manipulator of a hybrid machine tool
Authors: Wu Jun , Wang Liping
Published: December 2009

This paper focuses on the motion control of the two-degree-of-freedom (2-DOF) planar parallel manipulator of a hybrid machine tool. On the basis of the performance analysis of the kinematic control system, a parameter-tuning method is proposed for regulating the control parameters. To improve the response performance, the proportional-derivative control and a low-pass filter are introduced to the position-loop controller. The simulation shows that the response speed is increased and that the tracking error is reduced. Furthermore, the effect of load torque on the contour error is investigated, and the dynamic feedforward control is used to control the parallel manipulator. On the basis of the principle of dual-channel compensation, the feedforward compensator is designed. The simulations, that the moving platform moves along a linear trajectory and circular trajectory, show that the dynamic feedforward control can reduce the effect of load torque on contour error.
Position in the distributional range and sensitivity to forest fragmentation in birds: a case history from the Atlantic forest, Brazil
Authors: ANJOS LUIZ DOS , HOLT ROBERT D. , ROBINSON SCOTT
Published: December 2009

We tested the hypothesis that endemic bird species of the Brazilian Atlantic forest are more sensitive to forest fragmentation than non-endemics in a fragmented landscape in northern Paraná state of southern Brazil. Levels of sensitivity (high, medium, and low) were previously determined in the landscape based on the occurrences of bird species in 14 forest fragments. We evaluated 112 forest bird species and found that endemic species were more sensitive than non-endemics. Among the endemic species, highly sensitive species tended to have smaller geographic ranges. In a second analysis, we determined that birds at the edges of their geographic ranges in northern Paraná were more vulnerable to forest fragmentation. Combining both factors we found that endemic birds at the edge of their ranges were the most sensitive to fragmentation. Our results suggest that endemics and species at the edges of larger ranges might need larger tracts to ensure their continued existence within that region. Our results, however, also indicate that even small forest fragments may have considerable value for non-endemics and for species closer to the centres of their ranges.
Land degradation and migration in a dry land region in India: extent, nature and determinants
Authors: SHAH AMITA
Published: December 2009

Migration literature has considered environmental constraints as one of the prime movers of populations, especially from dry regions, where water rather than land is the primary limiting factor. This study examines the impact of degradation of private as well as common pool land resources on migration decisions, based on primary data from over one thousand households in three dry land districts in Gujarat. The study finds that economic assets and natural capital have differential impacts on short-term and long-term migration decisions. Thus, any employment creation in rural dry land regions is likely to help the poorest. Further degradation of common-pool land resources influences short-term but not long-term migration. Therefore, better management of common-pool resources would strengthen the livelihood base of traditional herder communities and limit migration among middle-income households. Overall, in dry areas such as Gujarat, access to irrigation, rather than land ownership per se, is likely to deter migration.