bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Planned neck dissection for patients with complete response to chemoradiotherapy: A concept approaching obsolescence
Authors: Ferlito Alfio , Corry June , Silver Carl E. , Shaha Ashok R. , Thomas Robbins K. , Rinaldo Alessandra
Published: July 2009

The question of efficacy of “planned” neck dissection following complete response to chemoradiation of head and neck cancer is discussed. There is general agreement that preemptive neck dissection in patients who present initially with low volume (N1) neck disease is not necessary. However, routine performance of planned neck dissection for patients who present initially with high volume (≥N2) disease remains controversial. The authors reviewed a large number of studies reported in the recent literature and discuss how they affect this debate.

Twenty‐four of the reviewed studies indicate a benefit in regional control obtained by “planned” neck dissection among patients who had bulky neck disease pretreatment. All these studies are retrospective, they do not assess treatment response prior to surgery, although they do show very good regional control rates. Twenty‐six studies demonstrate no benefit from “planned” neck dissection after complete clinical response. The reasons for these different conclusions include the development of more effective chemoradiation regimens which have improved the initial locoregional control rates of patients undergoing primary chemoradiation treatment, and improvements in diagnostic technology which have increased ability to detect low volume persistent tumor in the post treatment period. When neck dissection is necessary for persistent or recurrent disease, recent studies have shown that selective or superselective neck dissection may produce results therapeutically equivalent to those obtained with more extensive procedures, with less morbidity.

There is now a large body of evidence, based on long‐term clinical outcomes, that patients who have achieved a complete clinical (including radiologic) response to chemoradiation have a low rate of isolated neck failure, and the continued use of planned neck dissection for these patients cannot be justified. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2010
Nucleophosmin (NPM1) mutations in adult and childhood acute myeloid leukaemia: towards definition of a new leukaemia entity
Authors: Rau Rachel , Brown Patrick
Published: July 2009

Nucleophosmin (NPM) is a ubiquitously expressed chaperone protein that shuttles rapidly between the nucleus and cytoplasm, but predominantly resides in the nucleolus. It plays key roles in ribosome biogenesis, centrosome duplication, genomic stability, cell cycle progression and apoptosis. Somatic mutations in exon 12 of the NPM gene (NPM1) are the most frequent genetic abnormality in adult acute myeloid leukaemia (AML), found in approximately 35% of all cases and up to 60% of patients with normal karyotype (NK) AML. In children, NPM1 mutations are far less frequent, occurring in 8–10% of all AML cases, and in approximately 25% of those with a NK. NPM1 mutations lead to aberrant localization of the NPM protein into the cytoplasm, thus the designation, NPMc+ AML. NPMc+ AML is seen predominantly in patients with a NK and is essentially mutually exclusive of recurrent chromosomal translocations. Patients with NPM1 mutations are twice as likely as those who lack an NPM1 mutation to also have a FMS‐like tyrosine kinase (FLT3) internal tandem duplication (ITD) mutation. NPMc+ AML is also characterized by a unique gene expression signature and microRNA signature. NPMc+ AML has important prognostic significance, as NPMc+ AML, in the absence of a coexisting FLT3‐ITD mutation, is associated with a favourable outcome. NPM1 mutations have also shown great stability during disease evolution, and therefore represent a possible marker for minimal residual disease detection. Given its distinctive biologic and clinical features and its clear clinical relevance, NPMc+ AML is included as a provisional entity in the 2008 WHO classifications. There is still much to be learned about this genetic alteration, including its exact role in leukaemogenesis, how it interacts with other mutations and why it confers a more favourable prognosis. Further, it represents a potential therapeutic target warranting research aimed at identifying novel small molecules with activity in NPMc+ AML. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Flow‐retarding effects of vegetation and geotextiles on soil detachment during concentrated flow
Authors: Knapen A. , Smets T. , Poesen J.
Published: July 2009

Roughness elements at the soil surface (e.g. crop residues, rock fragments, vegetation, geotextiles) strongly reduce the erosivity of overland flow (both interrill and concentrated overland flow) and hence soil detachment rates. Common methods for shear stress partitioning that allow the calculation of effective flow shear stress in the presence of roughness elements originate from river hydraulics but seem invalid for overland flow. An alternative method to estimate the effective flow shear stress in the presence of a soil surface cover has been presented and tested for soil detachment by concentrated runoff on soil surfaces covered by crop residues by Knapen et al., (2008). In this method, the estimation of effective flow shear stress is based on the recalculation of the hydraulic radius for covered soil surfaces using flow hydraulics on uncovered surfaces. However, the applicability of this method for roughness elements different from crop residues and under field conditions needs to be tested to confirm its validity. Therefore, runoff data from three experimental studies (conducted on geotextile and grassed‐covered soil surfaces) are analysed in this study. The results show that effective flow shear stress, calculated using this method, is not only a good soil detachment predictor for soil surfaces covered with crop residues but also for the tested soil surfaces with a vegetation or geotextile cover. However, the geotextile experiments point to one of the shortcomings of the method. At high flow shear stress levels, vortex erosion due to flow turbulence is reported for the thickest geotextiles. These flow turbulences are not accounted for since the method is based on average flow characteristics. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Maternal correlates of 2‐year‐old American Indian children's social‐emotional development in a Northern Plains tribe
Authors: Sarche Michelle C. , Croy Calvin D. , Crow Cecelia Big , Mitchell Christina M. , Spicer Paul
Published: July 2009

The developmental experiences of very young American Indian children today are not well documented in the current literature. The present study sought to explore the social‐emotional development of American Indian toddlers living on a Northern Plains reservation, as a function of maternal variables. Mothers completed self‐report questionnaires about their experiences and their children's development. Observer ratings of children's development also were conducted. Maternal stress, substance use/abuse, perceptions of stress in the mother–child relationship, social support, and American Indian cultural identity were significantly related to children's social‐emotional development. This study is the first to explore these relationships in a Northern Plains American Indian sample of young children and their mothers. Results suggest possible points of intervention for improving the developmental outcomes of very young American Indian children.
Caregiving behavior and interactions of prenatally depressed mothers (antidepressant‐treated and non‐antidepressant‐treated) during newborn acute pain
Authors: Warnock Fay F. , Bakeman Roger , Shearer Kim , Misri Shaila , Oberlander Tim
Published: July 2009

This exploratory study aimed to examine time‐based measures of the behaviors and interactions of prenatally depressed serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SRI)‐medicated mothers to their infant's pain (n = 10) by comparing them with similar measures obtained from prenatally depressed nonmedicated mothers and their infants (n = 10), and nondepressed mothers and their infants (n = 10). During the second trimester of their pregnancy, the 30 study mothers were assessed for depression and anxiety, with no further measures of maternal mood taken. Maternal and infant interactions were continuously videorecorded while the infant underwent a scheduled heel lance for routine blood screening that occurred when study infants were between the ages of 24 and 60 hr. Maternal behavior and infant cry, for all 30 cases, were coded second‐by‐second for the full duration of each infant's heel lance using a reliable coding system and analyzed using odds ratio and regression analyses. Infants exposed to prenatal SRIs and depressed maternal mood were more likely to have lower Apgar scores and to exhibit weak and absent cry. Even when duration of the heel lance was controlled for, women with depression during the second trimester were more likely to exhibit depressed behavior at 2 days' postpartum despite sustained SRI antidepressant treatment. Both groups of prenatally depressed mothers were more likely to exhibit diminished response to their infants' pain cue although nonmedicated mothers' expressions of depressed behavior were more similar to healthy controls. Comprehensive understanding is essential to optimize the clinical care of mothers and their infants in this complex setting. This study contributes preliminary new findings that warrant prospective and longitudinal studies to clarify further the impacts of prenatal SRI and maternal mental mood (e.g., chronic depression and anxiety) effects on the mother–infant interaction and infant pain and stress reactivity.
Swelling properties of copolymeric hydrogels of poly(ethylene glycol) monomethacrylate and monoesters of itaconic acid for use in drug delivery
Authors: Teijón César , Guerrero Sandra , Olmo Rosa , Teijón José M. , Blanco M. Dolores
Published: July 2009

Copolymeric hydrogels of poly(ethylene glycol) monomethacrylate (PEGMA) (P) have been synthesized for use in drug‐delivery. New copolymeric hydrogels were prepared by free radical solution polymerization of PEGMA and monomethyl itaconate (MMI) or monoethyl itaconate (MEI), using ethyleneglycol dimethacrylate and tetraethyleneglycol dimethacrylate, respectively, as cross‐linkers. The effect of copolymer composition on swelling behavior, thermal decomposition and drug release was studied. Three compositions of each copolymer were studied: 70P/30MMI (or MEI), 80P/20MMI (or MEI) and 90P/10MMI (or MEI). The largest equilibrium swelling degree was observed in gels containing the highest content of MMI or MEI (84.22 ± 0.22 wt % for 70P/30MEI; 79.56 ± 0.64 wt % for 70P/30MMI). The swelling process was in accordance with Fick's Second Law. Methotrexate (MTX), an anticancer agent used in the treatment of different hyperproliferative epithelial diseases, was chosen to be loaded in the gels. The drug was included by immersion of the copolymeric disks in an aqueous solution of the drug. The amount of MTX in the xerogels was between 5.34 ± 0.06 mg MTX/g (90P/10MMI) and 14.94 ± 0.91 mg MTX/g (80P/20MEI). Two stages of thermal degradation for unloaded and MTX‐loaded gels were determined; the presence of the drug in the polymeric matrices decreased the temperature of the first stage of thermal degradation. MTX release was also in accordance with Fick's Second Law. The length of total drug release (340 ± 30 min–1502 ± 81 min) could be modulated as a function of the comonomer composition of the hydrogel. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2009
The effects of fiber size on MG63 cells cultured with collagen based matrices
Authors: Hsu Yuan‐Ming , Chen Chun‐Nan , Chiu Jeng‐Jiann , Chang Shih‐Hsin , Wang Yng‐Jiin
Published: July 2009

The behavior of human osteoblast‐like MG63 cells cultured on electrospun collagen fibers of three different sizes (50–200 nm, 200–500 nm, and 500–1000 nm in diameter) were investigated. The growth of MG63 cells on all three electrospun collagen fibers are the same and about 70% higher than those cultured on monomeric collagen and tissue‐culture polystyrene (TCPS). The migration speed of MG63 cells, on the other hand, decreased as the diameter of nanofibers increased. There were more distinct actin stress fibers formed in MG63 cells when the cells cultured on collagen substrates as compared with TCPS. In addition, MG63 cells displayed different adhesion and spreading patterns on different sizes of collagen fibers. Size variation of collagen nanofibers apparently has more impact on cell migration distance and cell morphology as compared with cell growth. It was demonstrated that collagen nanofibers promoted MG63 cell interaction with matrices by providing a suitably rough nanometer surface. The results of this study present important information for the development of collagen‐based biomaterials. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2009
A comparative assessment of synthetic ceramic bone substitutes with different composition and microstructure in rabbit femoral condyle model
Authors: Yamasaki Naomi , Hirao Makoto , Nanno Katsuhiko , Sugiyasu Kenjiro , Tamai Noriyuki , Hashimoto Nobuyuki , Yoshikawa Hideki , Myoui Akira
Published: July 2009

Various bone substitutes with improved biocompatibility have been developed. Because these products vary in composition and microstructure, it is difficult to understand each feature and make an appropriate selection. Three recently developed highly porous ceramic bone substitutes were evaluated, including two made of hydroxyapatite with different structures (Apaceram‐AX®: 85%‐porosity with micropores, NEOBONE®: 75%‐porosity without micropores) and one composed of β‐tricalcium phosphate (OSferion®: 75%‐porosity with micropores) in a rabbit model. Apaceram‐AX showed gradual degradation, while NEOBONE remaining intact. OSferion was almost completely degraded at 24 weeks. Numerous osteoclasts were detected in materials with micropores, whether Apaceram‐AX or OSferion, but not in NEOBONE. These differences of biodegradability seemed to be related to the presence of micropores. The compressive strength of OSferion increased for several weeks and decreased at a level of cancellous bone. The strength of NEOBONE gradually increased and remained at the highest level among three. The strength of Apaceram‐AX increased two to three times that of cancellous bone. Surprisingly, the strength of all materials declined during the initial 1 week, suggesting that great care should be taken in the early period after implantation. These findings may help surgeons to select an appropriate porous substitute based on understanding of their features. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2009
Polycaprolactone coated porous tricalcium phosphate scaffolds for controlled release of protein for tissue engineering
Authors: Xue Weichang , Bandyopadhyay Amit , Bose Susmita
Published: July 2009

Polycaprolactone (PCL) was coated on porous tricalcium phosphate (TCP) scaffolds to achieve controlled protein delivery. Porous TCP scaffolds were fabricated using reticulated polyurethane foam as sacrificial scaffold with a porosity of 70–90 vol %. PCL was coated on sintered porous TCP scaffolds by dipping‐drying process. The compressive strength of TCP scaffolds increased significantly after PCL coating. The highest strength of 2.41 MPa at a porosity of 70% was obtained for the TCP scaffold coated with 5% PCL solution. Model protein bovine serum albumin (BSA) was encapsulated efficiently within the PCL coating. The amount of BSA encapsulation was controlled by varying proteins' composition in the PCL coating. The FTIR analysis confirmed that BSA retained its structural conformation and did not show significant denaturization during PCL coating. The release kinetics in phosphate buffer solution indicated that the protein release was controlled and sustained, and primarily dependant on protein concentration encapsulated in the PCL coating. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2009
A theoretical study of topomerization of imine systems: Inversion, rotation or mixed mechanisms?
Authors: Gálvez Jesús , Guirado Antonio
Published: July 2009

The different mechanisms, rotation, inversion, or intermediate mechanism, by which occur the topomerization of imine systems R2 CNX have been studied by applying ab initio, B3LYP, and MP2 methods. The effect of a wide variety of substituents R and X on the isomerization pathway have been examined by computing fully optimized structures of the ground and transition states (136 isomers belonging to different imine families were studied and more than 300 transition structures were determined at various levels of theory). Energy barriers have been also obtained and it was found that the groups R and X have a strong influence on the type of mechanism involved and the activation energies. Thus, and depending on the type of substituents, transition state structures related to the following kinds of processes were found: pure inversion, intermediate mechanisms, rotation, and enhanced rotation (hyper‐rotation). In turn, the corresponding activation energies range between very low (<10 kcal/mol) and extremely high (> 70 kcal/mol) values. A simple index that allows us to quantify the percentage of inversion or rotation mechanism is proposed. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem, 2010
Biembeddings of Abelian groups
Authors: Grannell M. J. , Knor M.
Published: July 2009

We prove that, with the single exception of the 2‐group C, the Cayley table of each Abelian group appears in a face 2‐colorable triangular embedding of a complete regular tripartite graph in an orientable surface. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Combin Designs 18: 71–83, 2010
Cognitive behavioral therapy of negative symptoms
Authors: Perivoliotis Dimitri , Cather Corinne
Published: July 2009

Negative symptoms account for much of the functional disability associated with schizophrenia and often persist despite pharmacological treatment. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a promising adjunctive psychotherapy for negative symptoms. The treatment is based on a cognitive formulation in which negative symptoms arise and are maintained by dysfunctional beliefs that are a reaction to the neurocognitive impairment and discouraging life events frequently experienced by individuals with schizophrenia. This article outlines recent innovations in tailoring CBT for negative symptoms and functioning, including the use of a strong goal‐oriented recovery approach, in‐session exercises designed to disconfirm dysfunctional beliefs, and adaptations to circumvent neurocognitive and engagement difficulties. A case illustration is provided. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol: In Session 65:1–16, 2009.
Highly stable Pt nanoparticle catalyst supported by polyphenol‐grafted collagen fiber and its catalytic application in the hydrogenation of olefins
Authors: Wu Hao , Tang Rui , He Qiang , Liao Xuepin , Shi Bi
Published: July 2009

BACKGROUND: Collagen fiber (CF) is a potential biopolymer support for preparing Pt nanoparticle catalyst. Previous work has shown that the interaction between CF and platinum group metals is not strong enough to fully immobilize these metals. Therefore, epigallocatechin‐3‐gallate (EGCG), which contains multiple orthophenolic hydroxyls, was grafted onto the surface of CF in order to enhance the immobilization of Pt nanoparticles on CF. The methods of preparing EGCG‐grafted CF (EGCG‐CF) and EGCG‐CF supported Pt nanoparticle catalyst (Pt‐EGCG‐CF) were optimized. The catalytic activity and selectivity of Pt‐EGCG‐CF for hydrogenation of typical olefins were investigated.

RESULTS: Scanning electron microscopy displayed the ordered fibrous morphology of Pt‐EGCG‐CF. The presence of EGCG grafted on the CF surface and the coordinate interaction of EGCG and Pt were confirmed by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis. X‐ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy analyses showed that Pt nanoparticles with diameter 1–3 nm were uniformly dispersed on the outer surface of CF. Hydrogenation of olefins catalyzed by Pt‐EGCG‐CF was conducted under mild conditions. This heterogeneous catalyst exhibited outstanding activity and nearly 100% selectivity for the hydrogenation of CC double bonds. Moreover, this catalyst presented satisfactory reusability and storage stability in air.

CONCLUSION: An efficient method has been established to prepare a highly active, selective and stable Pt nanoparticle catalyst for the hydrogenation of olefins using EGCG‐grafted CF as a bio‐support. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Prenatal findings of concomitant duodenal and esophageal atresia without tracheoesophageal fistula (Gross type A)
Authors: Mitani Yasuyuki , Hasegawa Toshimichi , Kubota Akio , Kawahara Hisayoshi , Yoneda Akihiro , Nose Keisuke , Nomura Motonari
Published: July 2009

Prenatal diagnosis of concomitant duodenal atresia (DA) and esophageal atresia (EA) without tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) (Gross type A) is very rare. We describe prenatal findings of one such case. Sonographic examination of a 26‐week fetus showed a double cystic structure and an intrathoracic cyst. MRI and ultrasound at 26 weeks and 2 days' gestation showed shrinkage of the stomach and duodenum, massive ascites, and the presence of dilated pouch‐like structure in the thoracic inlet level, consistent with an upper pouch sign. Polyhydramnios was detected at 30 weeks' gestation. Prenatal diagnosis was concomitant DA and an intrathoracic anomaly such as congenital hiatal hernia, diaphragmatic hernia, esophageal duplication or EA. A boy was delivered at 38 weeks' gestation. Physical examination showed a markedly distended abdomen and imperforate anus. Emergency surgery revealed existing DA and EA without TEF (Gross type A). © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound, 2009
Acyclic edge chromatic number of outerplanar graphs
Authors: Hou Jian‐Feng , Wu Jian‐Liang , Liu Gui‐Zhen , Liu Bin
Published: July 2009

A proper edge coloring of a graph G is called acyclic if there is no 2‐colored cycle in G. The acyclic edge chromatic number of G, denoted by χ(G), is the least number of colors in an acyclic edge coloring of G. In this paper, we determine completely the acyclic edge chromatic number of outerplanar graphs. The proof is constructive and supplies a polynomial time algorithm to acyclically color the edges of any outerplanar graph G using χ(G) colors. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Graph Theory 64: 22–36, 2010
The morphology of prehatching embryos ofCaecilia orientalis(Amphibia: Gymnophiona: Caeciliidae)
Authors: Pérez Oscar D. , Lai Ngan Betty , Buckley David , del Pino Eugenia M. , Wake Marvalee H.
Published: July 2009

The state of development of advanced embryos of the direct‐developing Ecuadorian caecilianCaecilia orientalis(Caeciliidae: Gymnophiona: Amphibia) was examined. Because it is established that development is correlated with reproductive modes in a number of features, we included comparison with taxa that represent the major reproductive modes and all of the modern normal tables and ossification sequences. The embryos ofC. orientalismost closely resemble those of stage 47/48Gegeneophis ramaswamii,an Indian caeciliid, and stage 47/48Hypogeophis rostratus,a Seychellian caeciliid, both direct developers, in details of bone mineralization, chondrocranial degeneration, and vertebrogenesis. They are most like stage 45H. rostratusin external features (gills, pigmentation, etc.). They are less similar to prehatchings ofIchthyophis kohtaoensis,an ichthyophiid with free‐living larvae, and to fetuses of the viviparous caeciliidDermophis mexicanusand the viviparous typhlonectidTyphlonectes compressicaudaat comparable total lengths in both skeletal development and external features. The similarity of developmental features among the direct‐developers suggests a correlation with mode of life history. A noteworthy feature is thatC. orientalishas an armature of multiple rows of teeth on the lower jaw with tooth crowns that resemble the “fetal” teeth of viviparous taxa and that are covered with a layer of oral mucosal epithelium until full development and eruption, but the upper jaw bears a single row of widely spaced, elongate, slightly recurved teeth that resemble those of the adult. J. Morphol., 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Tensile forces at the porcine anterior meniscal horn attachment
Authors: Stärke Christian , Kopf Sebastian , Gröbel Karl‐Heinz , Becker Roland
Published: July 2009

Tibiofemoral compression causes circumferential tension in the knee meniscus, which is transferred to the tibial bone at the anterior and posterior attachments. The objective of the study was to measure the resulting tensile forces at the horn attachment in a porcine model. The anterior horn attachment of the porcine medial meniscus (n = 10) was separated from the surrounding bone with a core reamer. A force transducer was installed such that tensile forces acting upon the now mobile horn attachment could be measured. The tibiofemoral joint was loaded in compression, starting at a preload of 30 N, with three 150‐N increments, giving 180, 330, and 480 N load. Flexion angles of 0, 30, and 60° were investigated. The average resultant tension at the horn attachment was 26.3, 40.6, and 55.4 N with full extension, 29.2, 47.8, and 62.2 N at 30° flexion and 30.1, 49.6, and 68.1 N at 60° flexion. The tibiofemoral compression had a significant effect on the tension (p < 0.001), whereas no influence of the flexion angle was found (p = 0.291). The study demonstrates that tibiofemoral compressive loads cause considerable tensile forces at the anterior meniscal horn attachment. The data are of interest for models of the repair or replacement of the knee menisci. © 2009 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 27:1619–1624, 2009
Microbial nitrogen‐turnover processes within the soil profile of a nitrogen‐saturated spruce forest and their relation to the small‐scale pattern of seepage‐water nitrate
Authors: Matejek Boris , Huber Christian , Dannenmann Michael , Kohlpaintner Michael , Gasche Rainer , Göttlein Axel , Papen Hans
Published: July 2009

Microbial N‐turnover processes were investigated in three different forest soil layers [organic (O) layer, 0–10 cm depth (M1), 10–40 cm depth (M2)] of a N‐saturated spruce stand at the Höglwald Forest (Bavaria, SW Germany). The aim of the study was to provide a detailed insight into soil‐layer‐specific microbial production and consumption of inorganic N within the main rooting zone. Furthermore, we intended to clarify the relevance of each investigated soil layer on the observed high spatial variation of seepage‐water nitrate (NO$ _3^- $) concentration at 40 cm depth. The 15N‐pool dilution technique was applied for determination of gross and net N‐turnover rates in the different soil layers. Moreover, soil pH, C : N ratio, pool sizes of soil ammonium (NH$ _4^+ $) and NO$ _3^- $, as well as amounts of microbial biomass C (Cmic) and N (Nmic) were determined. The O layer had the greatest microbial‐biomass density along with the highest gross and net N‐turnover rates. 55% of the net nitrification occurred in the O layer, 20% in M1, and 25% in M2 (i.e., a considerable amount of net NO$ _3^- $ production was located in the mineral soil). Spatial variability of N‐turnover rates even increased with increasing soil depth due to higher spatial variation of microbial biomass and C and N contents in soil. NH$ _4^+ $ and NO$ _3^- $ concentrations in the organic layer as well as NO$ _3^- $ concentrations in M2 were significantly correlated with NO$ _3^- $ concentrations in seepage water at 40 cm depth. However, no significant correlation between NO$ _3^- $ concentrations in seepage water and any N‐turnover process was found. We suggest that in contrast to in situ field measurements the dislocation of the soil samples from their natural environment may have altered the spatial variability of N‐turnover rates.
Local and systemic control of Ewing's bone sarcoma family tumors of the ribs
Authors: Briccoli Antonio , Rocca Michele , Salone Mariacristina , Palmerini Emanuela , Balladelli Alba , Ferrari Cristina , Di Fiore Maria , Bacci Gaetano
Published: July 2009

Background

A retrospective analysis of the results and relapse pattern was evaluated in 34 patients with Ewing's family bone tumors (EFBT) treated at Rizzoli Institute with neoadjuvant chemotherapy between 1983 and 2003.

Objectives

The aim of the study was to evaluate treatment strategy and compare our results with those obtained in other studies.

Methods

Local treatment in these patients was radiotherapy alone in 4 cases, surgery alone in 13 and surgery followed by radiotherapy in 17.

Results

Five‐year event‐free survival (EFS) was 44%, no different from that observed in another 558 patients with EFBT located in other sites treated in the same period with neoadjuvant chemotherapy protocols. Eighteen patients had a systemic relapse, followed by local relapse in two and one patient had a local relapse alone. EFS was significantly correlated to the time interval between onset symptoms and beginning of treatment and, in operated patients to histologic response to preoperative treatment.

Conclusions

We conclude that EFBT of the ribs, when treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy, have an outcome similar to that of patients with EFBT located in other sites. J. Surg. Oncol. 2009;100:222–226. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Surgical resection of primary and metastatic hepatic malignancies following portal vein embolization
Authors: Mailey Brian , Truong Caitlyn , Artinyan Avo , Khalili Joshua , Sanchez‐Luege Nicelio , Denitz Jordan , Marx Howard , Wagman Lawrence D. , Kim Joseph
Published: July 2009

Background

Portal vein embolization (PVE) has been used to induce hypertrophy in future liver remnants (FLRs) in preparation for major hepatic resection. We report our initial experience with PVE and identify potential predictors of unresectability following PVE.

Methods

Patients with primary and metastatic hepatic malignancies (n = 20) who underwent PVE between 2004 and 2008 were categorized by surgical resection status and clinicopathologic factors were compared.

Results

The cohort had the following histologies: colorectal adenocarcinoma (45%, n = 9), hepatocellular carcinoma (20%), cholangiocarcinoma (20%), and other (15%). Seven patients (35%) had previous liver‐directed or regional therapy; 55% subsequently underwent successful liver resection, whereas 45% were deemed unresectable. Patients who underwent successful resection had tumor shrinkage after PVE compared to unresectable patients (% change in maximal tumor diameter, −6% vs. +45%, respectively; P = 0.027) and had a lower rate of baseline liver function test abnormality (0% vs. 56%, respectively; P = 0.004). Resected patients had an 83% 5‐year overall survival.

Conclusions

Baseline liver dysfunction may predict subsequent unresectable hepatic disease following PVE and tumor progression after PVE appears to increase the likelihood for finding unresectable hepatic disease. Select patients should be considered for PVE with careful surveillance during the period of FLR hypertrophy. J. Surg. Oncol. 2009;100:184–190. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Comparison of clinical risk scores predicting prognosis after resection of colorectal liver metastases
Authors: Merkel Susanne , Bialecki Diana , Meyer Thomas , Müller Volker , Papadopoulos Thomas , Hohenberger Werner
Published: July 2009

Background

The aim of this study was to compare the risk scores of Fong et al., Nordlinger et al., and the TNM classification of colorectal liver metastases proposed by the UICC.

Methods

Data from 282 consecutive patients undergoing 303 liver resections for metastatic colorectal cancer between 1995 and 2006 at the Department of Surgery, University of Erlangen were analyzed. The median follow‐up time was 34 months. A curative (R0) resection was performed in 92% of the patients.

Results

Applying the clinical risk score of Fong with preoperative data identified three risk groups. The survival rates between “low risk” (n = 22) and “intermediate risk” (n = 222) diverged (P = 0.073). The survival rates between “intermediate risk” and “high risk” (n = 59) differed significantly (P = 0.030). Using the risk scoring system of Nordlinger, patients were divided into two risk groups (i.e., “low risk” (n = 218) and “intermediate risk” (n = 68)). Significant differences in survival between the groups were noted (P = 0.012). Applying the clinical TNM classification of colorectal liver metastases revealed no significant differences in survival between the risk groups.

Conclusions

Our study found the clinical risk score developed by Fong et al. to be a reliable preoperative prognostic tool for selecting patients for surgical resection of colorectal liver metastases. J. Surg. Oncol. 2009;100:349–357. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Local complement activation in nasal polyposis
Authors: Van Zele Thibaut , Coppieters Frauke , Gevaert Philippe , Holtappels Gabriele , Van Cauwenberge Paul , Bachert Claus
Published: July 2009

Objectives/Hypothesis:

The role of the complement system in nasal polyps (CRSwNP) has so far scarcely been studied. Because nasal polyps are characterized by bacterial colonization, and the complement system is an effective defense mechanism, it might be involved in the pathogenesis of CRSwNP. This study was designed to investigate the local and systemic activation of the complement system in CRSwNP versus control mucosa in relation to the local and systemic eosinophilic and neutrophilic inflammation and local plasma exudation.

Methods:

Concentrations of complement factors C3a desArg and C5a desArg, and of albumin, α2‐macroglobulin, eosinophilic cationic protein, and myeloperoxidase were determined on nasal secretions and serum from 12 CRSwNP patients and 10 control patients. Tissue cryosections were stained for the membrane attack complex (C5b9)

Results:

We found a significantly higher concentration of C3a desArg and C5a desArg in nasal secretions from CRSwNP patients compared to controls, whereas the serum levels between the two groups did not differ significantly. Significant correlations were found between C5a desArg and eosinophil cationic protein in nasal secretions. Staining for the membrane attack complex revealed a deposition around blood vessels and the basal membrane exclusively in nasal polyp tissue.

Conclusions:

These data support the hypothesis that, in addition to the adaptive immune responses, the complement system is involved in the pathogenesis of CRSwNP and may contribute to typical features such as edema and granulocytic inflammation. Laryngoscope, 2009
Transoral laser microsurgery (TLM) ± adjuvant therapy for advanced stage oropharyngeal cancer
Authors: Rich Jason T. , Milov Simon , Lewis James S. , Thorstad Wade L. , Adkins Douglas R. , Haughey Bruce H.
Published: July 2009

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Document survival, prognostic variables, and functional outcomes of patients with AJCC stage III or IV oropharyngeal cancer, treated with transoral laser microsurgery (TLM) ± adjuvant therapy.

Study Design:

Analysis of prospectively assembled data pertaining to the above‐described patient cohort.

Methods:

Patients treated with TLM for AJCC stage III or IV oropharyngeal cancer at Washington University School of Medicine from 1996 to 2006 were followed for a minimum of 2 years. Recurrence, survival, functional, and human papilloma virus data were analyzed.

Results:

Eighty‐four patients met inclusion criteria. Mean follow‐up was 52.6 months. Overall AJCC stages were: III 15% and IV 85%. T stages were T1–2, 74%; T3–4, 26%. Eighty‐three patients underwent neck dissection, 50 received adjuvant radiotherapy, and 28 received adjuvant chemoradiotherapy. Overall survival at 2 and 5 years was 94% and 88%, respectively. Disease‐specific survival at 2 and 5 years was 96% and 92%, respectively. Six patients recurred (7%): locally (one), regionally (four), and distant (five). T stage, positive margins, and p16 status significantly impacted survival. The addition of adjuvant chemotherapy in high‐risk patients did not significantly impact survival. Five patients (6%) had major surgical complications, but without mortality. Eighty‐one percent of patients had acceptable swallowing function at last follow‐up. Immediately postoperatively, 17% required G‐tubes, which dropped to 3.4% of living patients at 3 years.

Conclusions:

In this population, our findings validate TLM ± adjuvant therapy as a highly effective strategy for survival, locoregional control, and swallowing recovery in AJCC stage III and IV oropharyngeal cancer. Our finding also show that p16 positivity improves survival. Laryngoscope, 2009
A contemporary review of wound healing in otolaryngology: Current state and future promise
Authors: Hom David B. , Sun Gordon H. , Elluru Ravindhra G.
Published: July 2009

Over the last 15 years, a new paradigm shift has occurred in the way we approach and treat soft tissue defects to the face and neck. These changes are due to recent advances in wound healing research and new biological products that are now available to the otolaryngologist. This article summarizes some of the recent developments and newer concepts in soft tissue healing with skin, the subglottis and facial allotransplantation relevant to the otolaryngologist. Laryngoscope, 2009
In vitro and in vivo photodynamic therapy of otitis media in gerbils
Authors: Jung Jae Yun , Seung Kwon Pil , Chul Ahn Jin , Ge Ruifeng , Suh Myung‐Whan , Rhee Chung‐Ku
Published: July 2009

Objectives/Hypothesis:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the antibacterial effects of photodynamic therapy (PDT) on common bacteria causing otitis media with effusion (OME).

Methods:

An in vitro study was carried out using a hematoporphyrin derivative sensitizer (Photogem; Lemonosov Institute of Fine Chemical, Moscow, Russia) and a 632‐nm diode laser on Haemophilus influenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis, and Streptococcus pneumoniae. The presence of colony‐forming units of the bacteria was examined, the microscopic structures of the bacteria were examined by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and flow cytometry of the bacteria was performed. An in vivo PDT study was performed using gerbils. S. pneumoniae or H. influenzae were injected into bullae. The Photogem was injected into the bullae 2 days later when OME developed, and transcanal irradiation with the 632‐nm diode laser (90 J) was performed. Middle ear and bulla were washed with Dulbecco's phosphate buffered saline (DPBS) and the washed DPBS was cultured. The presence of bacterial colonies was examined.

Results:

The PDT was effective in killing all three kinds of bacteria. TEM showed damaged bacterial cell membranes and cytoplasmic structures, and the flow cytometry showed a lower number of viable bacteria in the PDT group compared to the control group. PDT was effective in killing S. pneumoniae in 87% of the infected bullae with OME, whereas it was effective in eradicating H. influenzae in 50% of the infected bullae with OME.

Conclusions:

The results of these studies demonstrated that PDT may be effective to treat otitis media. PDT may have clinical implications in the treatment of otitis media that is resistant to antibiotic therapy. Laryngoscope, 2009
Development and validation of the singing voice handicap‐10
Authors: Cohen Seth M. , Statham Melissa , Rosen Clark A. , Zullo Thomas
Published: July 2009

Objectives/Hypothesis:

To develop a shortened version of the validated health status instrument for singers, the Singing Voice Handicap Index (SVHI).

Study Design:

Prospective item analysis of the SVHI in patients with singing voice problems and creation and validation of an abbreviated SVHI, the SVHI‐10.

Methods:

Patients presenting to two tertiary care voice clinics prospectively completed the SVHI. Principal component analysis was performed. Individual item to total correlations were calculated, and individual items were also evaluated for bipolar response patterns. A clinical consensus conference prioritized each individual item. Items were then eliminated, and the internal consistency was evaluated. A second cohort of patients with singing voice problems completed the Voice Handicap Index‐10 (VHI‐10) and SVHI‐10 at two time points. Singers without voice problems also completed the SVHI‐10. SVHI‐10 scores were compared between the groups, correlations between the SVHI‐10 and VHI‐10 were performed, and test‐retest reliability of the SVHI‐10 assessed.

Results:

Singers with voice problems had worse SVHI‐10 scores than normal singers (P < .0001, t test). Test‐retest reliability was high (Spearman correlation = 0.86, P < .001). Internal consistency of the SVHI‐10 demonstrated a Cronbach α of .94, and the correlation between the SVHI‐10 and VHI‐10 was 0.7 (P < .001, Spearman correlation).

Conclusions:

The SVHI‐10 is a valuable instrument to assess self‐perceived handicap associated with singing voice problems with reduced patient burden. Laryngoscope, 2009
The paranasal sinuses as a protective crumple zone for the orbit
Authors: Kellman Robert M. , Schmidt Christopher
Published: July 2009

Objectives/Hypothesis:

The purpose of this study is to test the theory that the paranasal sinuses serve a protective function for the central nervous system and special sensory organs.

Study Design:

Nonrandomized experimental trauma study with fresh human cadavers.

Methods:

Fresh human cadaver heads were obtained and the sinuses on one side underwent endoscopic endonasal sinus surgery and were then filled with radio‐opaque bone cement to obliterate them. The contralateral sinuses were not operated upon to allow both for comparison to the experimental side and to serve as an intraspecimen control. The cadavers underwent serial computed tomography (CT) scans. Scans were performed prior to surgery, after surgery, and after unilateral sinus obliteration to obtain baseline CT studies prior to any impact testing. Sequential drops of increasing energy were then performed directing the impacts onto the globes. Initial endpoints were either orbital fractures or ocular injury. Trauma was induced by impacting a weighted rod onto the globes using a guided drop technique. Orbital rim impact was avoided, so that the effect of direct globe trauma could be assessed; fractures were thus induced via the hydraulic mechanism, in which force is transmitted through the globe to the surrounding tissues and orbital walls. After initial injury endpoints were met, additional impact testing was performed on globes, in which fractures occurred with lower drop forces to ensure impact energy equivalence between the control and the experimental sides.

Results:

All the experimentally obliterated paranasal sinus orbits tested suffered trauma‐induced globe ruptures, and no orbital wall fractures were encountered. On the control sides, no globe ruptures occurred at either an equivalent or higher energy than the energy needed to induce globe ruptures on the experimental side orbits, although orbital floor fractures on the control sides occurred after lower energy impacts in some cases.

Conclusions:

This study demonstrates that the thin orbital floor fractures preferentially, thereby protecting the globe from rupture as a result of the directed trauma. When the sinus crumple zones were eliminated, globe ruptures occurred. Laryngoscope, 2009
Assessment of septal deviation effects on nasal air flow: A computational fluid dynamics model
Authors: Chen Xiao Bing , Lee Heow Pueh , Hin Chong Vincent Fook , Wang De Yun
Published: July 2009

Objectives/Hypothesis:

The purpose of this article is to analyze the effects of septal deviation on the aerodynamic air flow pattern compared with that of a normal nose by computational fluid dynamics (CFD) tools.

Methods:

Two 3‐dimensional (3‐D) models of nasal cavities were constructed from the magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography scans of a healthy human nose and a nose with septal deviation, with the use of the software MIMICS 12.1 (The Materialise Group, Leuven, Belgium). Thereafter high‐resolution 3‐D volume meshes comprising boundary layer effect and computational domain exterior to the nose were constructed. Numerical simulations were carried out using FLUENT (ANSYS, Canonsburg, PA) for CFD simulations. The Reynolds‐averaged Navier‐Stokes equations were solved for the turbulence flow with the shear stress transport k − ω model.

Results:

In the nose model with septal deviation, major changes in the pattern of inspiratory airflow (e.g., flow partitioning and nasal resistance, velocity and pressure distributions, intensity and location of turbulence), wall shear stress, and increasing of total negative pressure through the nasal cavity were demonstrated qualitatively and quantitatively. In the healthy nose, the area with the highest intensity of turbulent flow was found in the functional nasal valve region, but it became less apparent or even disappeared in the septal deviation one.

Conclusions:

This CFD study provides detailed information of the aerodynamic effects of nasal septal deviation on nasal airflow patterns and their associated physiological functions. Laryngoscope, 2009
Trait superstition and consumer behavior: Re‐conceptualization, measurement, and initial investigations
Authors: Carlson Brad D. , Mowen John C. , Fang Xiang
Published: July 2009

The authors propose that superstitions are employed as a heuristic device and that they influence a variety of consumer behaviors. Previous research has assessed superstition by investigating specific superstitious beliefs. The present research advances the literature by developing a general measure of a propensity to be superstitious. In a two‐study sequence, a new measure of trait superstition is developed and a nomological net of its consequences and antecedents identified. Study 1 employed a sample of 322 student responses to investigate the influence of trait superstition on traditional superstitious behaviors, such as keeping good‐luck charms. Study 2 employed a sample of 1158 consumer panel respondents to investigate the influence of trait superstition on consumer activities in which outcomes are uncertain and are likely to be influenced by chance. The studies reveal that after accounting for a set of antecedents, trait superstition is predictive of a wide variety of consumer beliefs, such as beliefs in astrology and in common negative superstitions (e.g., fear of black cats). In addition, a general predisposition to be superstitious leads to enduring dispositions to gamble, participate in promotional games, invest in stocks, forward superstitious e‐mails, keep good‐luck charms, and exhibit sport fanship. Theoretical contributions and managerial implications are also discussed. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.