bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Photometry and spectroscopy of the newly discovered eclipsing binary GSC 4589‐2999
Authors: Liakos A. , Bonfini P. , Niarchos P. , Hatzidimitriou D.
Published: July 2011

New CCD light curves of the recently detected eclipsing variable GSC 4589‐2999 were obtained and analysed using the Wilson‐Deninney code. Spectroscopic observations of the system allowed the spectral classification of the components and the determination of their radial velocities. The physical properties and absolute parameters of the components and an updated ephemeris of the system are given (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Mining the CFHT Legacy Survey for known Near Earth Asteroids
Authors: Vaduvescu O. , Tudorica A. , Birlan M. , Toma R. , Badea M. , Dumitru D. , Opriseanu C. , Vidican D.
Published: July 2011

The Canada‐France‐Hawaii Legacy Survey (CFHTLS) comprising about 25 000 MegaCam images was data mined to search for serendipitous encounters of known Near Earth Asteroids (NEAs) and Potentially Hazardous Asteroids (PHAs). A total of 143 asteroids (109 NEAs and 34 PHAs) were found on 508 candidate images which were field corrected and measured carefully, and their astrometry was reported to Minor Planet Centre. Both recoveries and precoveries (apparitions before discovery) were reported, including data for 27 precovered asteroids (20 NEAs and 7 PHAs) and 116 recovered asteroids (89 NEAs and 27 PHAs). Our data prolonged arcs for 41 orbits at first or last opposition, refined 35 orbits by fitting data taken at one new opposition, recovered 6 NEAs at their second opposition and allowed us to ameliorate most orbits and their Minimal Orbital Intersection Distance (MOID), an important parameter to monitor for potential Earth impact hazard in the future (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Indian record for Kepler's supernova: Evidence from Kashmir Valley
Authors: Sule A. , Bandey A. , Vahia M. , Iqbal N. , Tabasum M.
Published: July 2011

We revisit a strange representation of the Sagittarius constellation painted on a door arch of a tomb in Kashmir. We show that it is a very strong case of a representation of Kepler's supernova (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
An Artificial Neural Network approach to classify SDSS stellar spectra
Authors: Schierscher F. , Paunzen E.
Published: July 2011

We present a combined method to classify stellar spectra of the seventh data release (DR7) of the SDSS via an Artificial Neural Network (ANN), derive radial velocities and to estimate distances from an isochrone fitting technique. In total, we used 29 182 spectra of stars falling in the effective temperature range between 10000 and 5500 K, including white dwarfs. The targets were selected on the basis of SDSS colours. We compare our results not only with the SEGUE Stellar Parameter Pipeline output, but also with already published values and find excellent agreement. With new and extensive data sets from all‐sky ground based as well as satellite missions, our approach will become very important and efficient to analyse these information (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
A 2007 photometric study and UV spectral analysis of the Wolf‐Rayet binary V444 Cyg
Authors: Eriş F.Z. , Ekmekçi F.
Published: July 2011

Photometric and spectroscopic characteristics of the WN5+O6 binary system, V444 Cyg, were studied. The Wilson‐Devinney (WD) analysis, using new BV observations carried out at the Ankara University Observatory, revealed the masses, radii, and temperatures of the components of the system as MWR = 10.64 M⊙, MO = 24.68 M⊙, RWR = 7.19 R⊙, RO = 6.85 R⊙, TWR = 31 000 K, and TO = 40000 K, respectively. It was found that both components had a full spherical geometry, whereas the circumstellar envelope of the WR component had an asymmetric structure. The O – C analysis of the system revealed a period lengthening of 0.139 ± 0.018 syr–1, implying a mass loss rate of (6.76 ± 0.39) ×10–6 M⊙ yr–1 for the WR component. Moreover, 106 IUE‐NEWSIPS spectra were obtained from NASA's IUE archive for line identification and determination of line profile variability with phase, wind velocities and variability in continuum fluxes. The integrated continuum flux level (between 1200–2000 Å) showed a mild and regular increase from orbital phase 0.00 up to 0.50 and then a decrease in the same way back to phase 0.00. This is evaluated as the O component making a constant and regular contribution to the system's UV light as the dominant source. The C IV line, originating in the circumstellar envelope, had the highest velocity while N IV line, originating in deeper layers of the envelope, had the lowest velocity. The average radial velocity calculated by using the C IV line (wind velocity) was found as 2326 km s–1 (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Erratum: Linear sensitivity of helioseismic travel times to local flows
Authors: Birch A. C. , Gizon L. , Burston R.
Published: July 2011

We fix three typographical errors in “Linear Sensitivity of Helioseismic Travel Times to Local Flows” (Astronomische Nachrichten, Vol. 328, Issue 3, p. 228) (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Cluster analysis for pattern recognition in solar butterfly diagrams
Authors: Illarionov E. , Sokoloff D. , Arlt R. , Khlystova A.
Published: July 2011

We investigate to what extent the wings of solar butterfly diagrams can be separated without an explicit usage of Hale's polarity law as well as the location of the solar equator. We apply two algorithms of cluster analysis for this purpose, namely DBSCAN and C‐means, and demonstrate their ability to separate the wings of contemporary butterfly diagrams based on the sunspot group density in the diagram only. Then we apply the method to historical data concerning the solar activity in the 18th century (Staudacher data). The method separates the two wings for Cycle 2, but fails to separate them for Cycle 1. In our opinion, this finding supports the interpretation of the Staudacher data as an indication of the unusual nature of the solar cycle in the 18th century (© 2011 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Prosthesis-free repair of pectus chest deformity
Authors: Makarawo T P , Steyn R S , Naidu B V
Published: July 2011

Background

Modified Ravitch and Nuss procedures use a metal bar to repair pectus chest deformity; an additional procedure is required to remove the bar. The aim of this study was to examine mid-term results of a novel technique that uses the patient's own chest wall muscles to stabilize the pectus repair aided by a posture-maintaining exercise regimen.

Methods

Thirty-two consecutive patients with pectus deformity underwent pectus repair without prosthesis between 1999 and 2008. The median age of the group was 18 (95 per cent confidence interval (c.i.) 14 to 34) years. Median follow-up was 44 (7 to 108) months. Twenty patients had an excavatum and 12 a carinatum defect. Surgery was performed through a transverse incision raising pectoralis and rectus muscle flaps. The sternum was released to a neutral position and stabilized to the overlying muscle raphe closure. Patient satisfaction was assessed with a single-step questionnaire.

Results

Median length of stay was 6 (95 per cent c.i. 4 to 7) days. Two patients returned to theatre for bleeding, two had a superficial wound infection and four developed a seroma. No patient had recurrence. There was a significant improvement in self-esteem (P < 0·001) and a high level of overall satisfaction (median score 72, 95 per cent c.i. 56 to 80).

Conclusion

This non-prosthetic pectus deformity repair was effective with low serious morbidity and high patient satisfaction without the inherent disadvantages of using a metal bar.
Randomized clinical trial of perioperative selective decontamination of the digestive tract versus placebo in elective gastrointestinal surgery
Authors: Roos D , Dijksman L M , Oudemans-van Straaten H M , de Wit L T , Gouma D J , Gerhards M F
Published: July 2011

Background

This randomized clinical trial analysed the effect of perioperative selective decontamination of the digestive tract (SDD) in elective gastrointestinal surgery on postoperative infectious complications and leakage.

Methods

All patients undergoing elective gastrointestinal surgery during a 5-year period were evaluated for inclusion. Randomized patients received either SDD (polymyxin B sulphate, tobramycin and amphotericin) or placebo in addition to standard antibiotic prophylaxis. The primary endpoint was postoperative infectious complications and anastomotic leakage during the hospital stay or 30 days after surgery.

Results

A total of 289 patients were randomized to either SDD (143) or placebo (146). Most patients (190, 65·7 per cent) underwent colonic surgery. There were 28 patients (19·6 per cent) with infectious complications in the SDD group compared with 45 (30·8 per cent) in the placebo group (P = 0·028). The incidence of anastomotic leakage in the SDD group was 6·3 per cent versus 15·1 per cent in the placebo group (P = 0·016). Hospital stay and mortality did not differ between groups.

Conclusion

Perioperative SDD in elective gastrointestinal surgery combined with standard intravenous antibiotics reduced the rate of postoperative infectious complications and anastomotic leakage compared with standard intravenous antibiotics alone. Perioperative SD.D should be considered for patients undergoing gastrointestinal surgery. Registration number: P02.1187L (Dutch Central Committee on Research Involving Human Subjects).
Myocardial bridges: A review
Authors: Loukas Marios , Von Kriegenbergh Katrina , Gilkes Mathangi , Tubbs R. Shane , Walker Christi , Malaiyandi Deepa , Anderson Robert H.
Published: July 2011

Much has been written regarding the potential clinical significance of myocardial bridges. As such bridging is often seen in normal individuals, it is clear that not all arteries bridged by myocardial segments produce clinical symptoms thereby suggesting that this feature may simply be an anatomical variant. However, some authors who have considered these bridges as the cause of cardiac ischemia have suggested two potential mechanisms for their pathophysiology. The first is a phasic systolic compression of the bridged segment with persistent mid‐to‐late diastolic reduction in arterial diameter and the second proposes a reduction in arterial flow. Both mechanisms may contribute to a reduced reserve in coronary blood flow. In this review, we discuss the evidence that exists regarding myocardial bridging and the potential for bridging to cause myocardial ischemia. Clin. Anat. 24:675–683, 2011. © 2011 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Medical students' responses to the dissection of the heart and brain: A dialogue on the seat of the soul
Authors: Martyn Helen , Barrett Anthony , Trotman Paul , Nicholson Helen
Published: July 2011

The search for the soul has been documented since the fifth Century BCE when philosophers and physicians began to explore the role of human consciousness and emotion. Traditionally in western civilization, there have been two distinct followings with some believing that the brain was the seat of the soul and others believing that this role belonged to the heart. The aim of this study was to assess the attitudes of medical students towards the heart and brain during their anatomy laboratory dissections to evaluate if any extra meaning is given to these organs and where they perceived the origin of the soul. Medical students (n = 16) at the University of Otago were interviewed in regards to their thoughts about body dissection and particularly their views towards the brain and the heart. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted following the dissection of these two organs, and then transcribed and analyzed. There were mixed opinions among students with some experiencing difficulty dissecting the brain because this organ had special meaning to them; they perceived it as the organ that “made a person who they were.” Others commented on their emotional reactions when removing the heart, which they viewed as the “seat of emotion.” Some students experienced emotional and physical reactions to these two dissections and Anatomy faculty need to be aware that students may struggle because they viewed these organs as special. A dialogue emerged amongst some medical students on the seat of the soul which gave extra meaning to the dissection. Clin. Anat. 25:407–413, 2012. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Peptides and Proteins as a Continuing Exciting Source of Inspiration for Peptidomimetics
Authors: Liskamp Rob M. J. , Rijkers Dirk T. S. , Kruijtzer John A. W. , Kemmink Johan
Published: July 2011

Despite their enormous diversity in biological function and structure, peptides and proteins are endowed with properties that have induced and stimulated the development of peptidomimetics. Clearly, peptides can be considered as the “stem” of a phylogenetic molecular development tree from which branches of oligomeric peptidomimetics such as peptoids, peptidosulfonamides, urea peptidomimetics, as well as β‐peptides have sprouted. It is still a challenge to efficiently synthesize these oligomeric species, and study their structural and biological properties. Combining peptides and peptidomimetics led to the emergence of peptide–peptidomimetic hybrids in which one or more (proteinogenic) amino acid residues have been replaced with these mimetic residues. In scan‐like approaches, the influence of these replacements on biological activity can then be studied, to evaluate to what extent a peptide can be transformed into a peptidomimetic structure while maintaining, or even improving, its biological properties. A central issue, especially with the smaller peptides, is the lack of secondary structure. Important approaches to control secondary structure include the introduction of α,α‐disubstituted amino acids, or (di)peptidomimetic structures such as the Freidinger lactam. Apart from intra‐amino acid constraints, inter‐amino acid constraints for formation of a diversity of cyclic peptides have shaped a thick branch. Apart from the classical disulfide bridges, the repertoire has been extended to include sulfide and triazole bridges as well as the single‐, double‐ and even triple‐bond replacements, accessible by the extremely versatile ring‐closing alkene/alkyne metathesis approaches. The latter approach is now the method of choice for the secondary structure that presents the greatest challenge for structural stabilization: the α‐helix.
Improved Simulation of the Transient Temperature Distribution in HT‐PEM‐Fuel Cells for Increased Efficiency
Authors: Wesling Volker , Giese Peter , Kandelhardt Thorsten
Published: July 2011

Erkennen und Vermeiden von starken Temperaturgradienten in Brennstoffzellen kann zu einer deutlichen Standzeitverlängerung führen. Die Abschätzung der während des Betriebs entstehenden Temperaturverteilung ist aufgrund der komplexen Vorgänge mit erheblichem Rechenaufwand verbunden. Deshalb konnten bisher nur kleine und einfache Geometrien berechnet werden. Durch Integration eines neuen mathematischen Ansatzes in kommerzielle Strömungssoftware wurde jetzt die Möglichkeit geschaffen, auch komplizierte Strömungskanäle zu berechnen und zu bewerten, um so die Effizienz und Lebensdauer zu erhöhen.
Pilot‐Scale Device for Filter Cake Resuspension of Ceramic Membranes
Authors: Quadt Tobias , Schmidt Eberhard
Published: July 2011

Die Entfernung von Deckschichten auf überströmten Membranen ist einer der wichtigsten Faktoren für das ökonomisch sinnvolle Betreiben von Mikro‐ und Ultrafiltrationsmembranen. Bei der Wiederablösung der Partikeln von der Membranoberfläche muss der Haftkraft besondere Bedeutung beigemessen werden. In dem vorliegenden Beitrag wird eine Apparatur zur experimentellen Beschreibung der Haftung von mineralischen Einzelpartikeln und zusammenhängenden Partikelsystemen an keramischen Membranen vorgestellt. Ziel ist es, zur Optimierung von Regenerierungsmethoden von Membranen beizutragen und neue Reinigungsverfahren zu entwickeln.
Measuring the scale of segregation in mixing data
Authors: Kukukova Alena , Aubin Joelle , Kresta Suzanne M.
Published: July 2011

Four methods were used to extract length scales from mixing data: the maximum striation thickness, point‐to‐nearest‐neighbour (PNN) distributions, the correlogram and the variogram. Four test data sets were analysed: blending in a micromixer; particle dispersion in a stirred tank; dispersion of a smoke plume and a pulse tracer test in a reactor. The maximum striation thickness captures the largest length scale. The PNN method quantifies differences between clustered, random and regular spatial distributions. The correlogram calculation cannot be consistently used for all types of mixing data and has therefore been rejected. The variogram reveals both large‐scale segregation and periodicity. Sub‐sampling is needed to isolate smaller structures. The variogram, PNN and transect methods all successfully extracted mixing length scales from large 2D data sets.
MHD flow and heat transfer over stretching/shrinking sheets with external magnetic field, viscous dissipation and Joule effects
Authors: Jafar Khamisah , Nazar Roslinda , Ishak Anuar , Pop Ioan
Published: July 2011

The present article considers the steady magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) laminar boundary layer flow of a viscous and incompressible electrically conducting fluid near the stagnation point on a horizontal stretching or shrinking surface, with variable surface temperature and a constant magnetic field applied normal to the surface of the sheet. The governing system of partial differential equations is first transformed into a system of ordinary differential equations by introducing an appropriate similarity transformation, which is then solved numerically using a finite‐difference scheme known as the Keller‐box method. The effects of the governing parameters on the skin friction coefficient, the local Nusselt number as well as the velocity and temperature profiles are determined and discussed. Results indicate that for the stretching sheet, solution exists and is unique for all values of the stretching/shrinking parameter $\lambda $, while for the shrinking sheet, solutions only exist up to some critical values $\lambda = \lambda _{{\rm c}} $, and these solutions may be unique, dual and sometimes triple. © 2011 Canadian Society for Chemical Engineering
Diffuse idiopathic pulmonary neuroendocrine cell hyperplasia and the associated lung neuroendocrine tumors
Authors: Gorshtein Alexander , Gross David J. , Barak Dganit , Strenov Yulia , Refaeli Yael , Shimon Ilan , Grozinsky‐Glasberg Simona
Published: July 2011

BACKGROUND:

Normal adult lungs contain pulmonary neuroendocrine cells (PNECs). PNEC hyperplasia may be either reactive or idiopathic, and the idiopathic type is defined as diffuse idiopathic PNEC hyperplasia (DIPNECH). It is believed that DIPNECH is a neuroendocrine proliferative process associated with carcinoid tumors. The available data regarding this rare condition are very limited. The objective of the current study was to describe the clinical, radiologic, and pathologic characteristics of patients with DIPNECH and the effect of various therapeutic modalities on patient well being.

METHODS:

The authors retrospectively studied 11 consecutive patients with DIPNECH who were followed at 2 referral centers in Israel between 2000 and 2010.

RESULTS:

All patients were women, and their median age was 62.8 years. Six patients presented with respiratory symptoms, such as prolonged dyspnea, wheezing, and cough. All patients had carcinoid tumor together with multiple, small pulmonary nodules observed on thoracic high‐resolution computerized tomography images. The mean size of the dominant lesion was 19.4 ± 9.6 mm. Nine patients underwent thoracotomy and resection of the dominant lesion. The disease was stable in 5 of 11 patients; in 6 of 10 patients, it progressed, and the patients received treatment with somatostatin analogs, which induced disease stabilization in all patients. Metastatic disease was diagnosed in 3 of 11 patients (36%). All patients were alive at the end of follow‐up (mean, 4.63 ± 2.04 years; ongoing).

CONCLUSIONS:

The association of lung neuroendocrine tumor with multiple nodules in women, together with complains of chronic cough and wheezing, should raise suspicion of DIPNECH. Whenever possible, these patients should undergo surgical excision of the dominant lesion, and somatostatin analogs may be considered for symptomatic or tumor control in patients with progressive disease. Cancer 2012;. © 2011 American Cancer Society.
Age‐adjusted validation of the most stringent criteria for active surveillance in low‐risk prostate cancer patients
Authors: Suardi Nazareno , Gallina Andrea , Capitanio Umberto , Salonia Andrea , Lughezzani Giovanni , Freschi Massimo , Mottrie Alexander , Rigatti Patrizio , Montorsi Francesco , Briganti Alberto
Published: July 2011

BACKGROUND:

The authors tested the performance of the currently used clinical criteria reported in populations studied by van den Bergh et al and Carter et al for the selection of patients with prostate cancer (PCa) for active surveillance (AS) according to age.

METHODS:

Data were analyzed from 893 patients who underwent with radical prostatectomy (RP). The authors investigated the rates of unfavorable PCa at RP (extracapsular extension, seminal vesicle or lymph node invasion, or Gleason score 7‐10) in patients who fulfilled AS criteria according to age tertiles (ages ≤63 years, 63.1 to 69 years, and >69 years). Area under the plasma concentration time curve (AUC) analyses tested the criteria for predicting unfavorable PCa. Then, the patients were stratified according to the cutoff age of 70 years. Multivariate analyses were used to test the role of age in predicting unfavorable PCa.

RESULTS:

The rate of unfavorable PCa characteristics was between 24% and 27.8%. In the van den Bergh et al population, after age 70 years, the rate of unfavorable PCa characteristics was 41% compared with 23.2% and 24.1% in patients in the previous age tertiles (ages ≤63 years and 63.1 to 69 years, respectively). In the Carter et al population, the rate of unfavorable PCa was 41.2% compared with 17.3% and 18.6% in the previous age tertiles (ages ≤63 years and 63.1 to 69 years, respectively). When the 70‐year age cutoff was used, unfavorable PCa was identified in 17.9% to 23.6% of patients aged <70 years versus 4% to 41.2% of patients aged >70 years (all P < .001). AUC analyses revealed significantly lower performance in older patients. In multivariate analyses, after adjustment for prostate‐specific antigen, prostate volume, and the number of cores, age represented an independent predictor of unfavorable PCa.

CONCLUSIONS:

The currently used AS criteria performed significantly better for patients aged <70 years. The authors concluded that the current results should be taken into account when deciding whether to offer active surveillance to patients with low‐risk PCa. Cancer 2012;. © 2011 American Cancer Society.
Outcomes after prostate brachytherapy are even better than predicted
Authors: Frank Steven J. , Levy Lawrence B. , van Vulpen Marco , Crook Juanita , Sylvester John , Grimm Peter , Pugh Thomas J. , Swanson David A.
Published: July 2011

BACKGROUND:

During the first 3 years after prostate cancer treatment with radiation therapy, benign prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) bounces are difficult for clinicians to distinguish from a biochemical recurrence, which can result in unnecessary interventions and erroneous predictions of outcomes. The objective of this study was to evaluate a commonly used PSA failure definition in a multinational, multi‐institutional study after monotherapy with prostate brachytherapy.

METHODS:

Participants were selected from 2919 men who underwent permanent prostate brachytherapy at the University Medical Center Utrecht, Princess Margaret Hospital, or Seattle Prostate Institute between 1998 and 2006. Inclusion required not having received androgen‐deprivation therapy and having at least 30 months of follow‐up. Failure was defined as any post‐treatment use of hormone therapy, clinical relapse, or prostogram‐defined biochemical (PSA) failure. Cases in which the nomogram predicted biochemical failure were evaluated at each institution to verify biochemical status over time and the actual clinical outcome at 5 years.

RESULTS:

The median follow‐up for the 1816 patients was 5.2 years. Concordance between the prostogram‐predicted and actual outcomes, as measured by the Harrell c statistic, was 0.655 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.536‐0.774; P = .010) for the Princess Margaret group, 0.493 (95% CI, 0.259‐0.648; P = .955) for the Seattle group, and 0.696 (95% CI, 0.648‐0.744, P < .001) for the Utrecht group. The overall mean difference in biochemical recurrence‐free survival at 5 years between actual outcomes and prostogram‐defined outcomes was 9.2% (95% CI, 7.7%‐10.6%). The total numbers of prostogram‐defined and actual biochemical failures were 312 and 157, respectively (P = .001).

CONCLUSIONS:

The widely used prostogram could not adequately distinguish a benign PSA bounce from a biochemical recurrence after prostate brachytherapy and could not be used to counsel patients about their predicted outcomes after treatment. The authors conclude that, to avoid unnecessary active interventions after treatment, clinicians should monitor PSA levels for at least 3 years and provide reassurance to patients that a PSA rise during this time is common and may not indicate a treatment failure. Cancer 2012;118:839–847. © 2011 American Cancer Society.
Intramural and extramural vascular invasion in colorectal cancer
Authors: Betge Johannes , Pollheimer Marion J. , Lindtner Richard A. , Kornprat Peter , Schlemmer Andrea , Rehak Peter , Vieth Michael , Hoefler Gerald , Langner Cord
Published: July 2011

BACKGROUND:

Blood vessel invasion has been associated with poor outcome in colorectal cancer (CRC), whereas the prognostic impact of lymphatic invasion is less clear. The authors of this report evaluated venous and lymphatic invasion as potential prognostic indicators in patients with CRC focusing on lymph node‐negative patients and compared routine and review pathology diagnoses.

METHODS:

In total, 381 tumors from randomly selected patients were retrospectively reviewed. The presence of vascular invasion was related to disease‐free and cancer‐specific survival using the Kaplan‐Meier method. For multivariable analysis, Cox proportional hazards regression models were performed.

RESULTS:

Lymphatic invasion and venous invasion were observed in 126 patients (33%) and 87 patients (23%), respectively, and were associated significantly with tumor classification, lymph node status, American Joint Committee on Cancer/International Union Against Cancer (AJCC/UICC) disease stage, tumor differentiation, pattern of invasion, and extent of tumor budding. The detection of vascular invasion was related to the number of examined tissue blocks. Venous and lymphatic invasion proved to be significant prognostic variables in univariable and multivariable analyses. Extramural vascular involvement was of particular significance. When the analysis was restricted to patients with (AJCC/UICC) stage II disease, venous invasion, but not lymphatic invasion, was identified as an independent prognostic variable. Review pathology diagnoses differed significantly from routine diagnoses with respect to prognostic impact.

CONCLUSIONS:

Venous and lymphatic invasion proved to be significant prognostic variables in patients with CRC. The detection of vascular invasion and, consequently, risk stratification of affected patients were related to the quality of pathology workup, ie, the number of examined tissue blocks. Observed differences between review and routine pathology diagnoses illustrated the need for high‐quality pathology reporting and also for standardized quality control. Cancer 2012;. © 2011 American Cancer Society.
Early referral to supportive care specialists for symptom burden in lung cancer patients
Authors: Reyes‐Gibby Cielito C. , Anderson Karen O. , Shete Sanjay , Bruera Eduardo , Yennurajalingam Sriram
Published: July 2011

BACKGROUND:

Effective management of symptoms in cancer patients requires early intervention. This study assessed whether the timing of referral to the Supportive Care Center (SCC) and symptom burden outcome varied by race or ethnicity in lung cancer patients who had been seen at a tertiary cancer center.

METHODS:

Non‐Hispanic white (n = 752), Hispanic (n = 111), and non‐Hispanic black (n = 117) patients with nonsmall cell lung cancer comprised this sample. Data on sociodemographic factors, stage of disease, comorbid conditions, and symptom severity (pain, depressed mood, fatigue) served as potential predictor variables.

RESULTS:

Whereas the mean time (15 months; median = 7 months) from initial presentation at the cancer center to referral to the SCC did not vary by race or ethnicity, we found that Hispanics and non‐Hispanic blacks had higher symptom burden when they first presented at the cancer center than non‐Hispanic whites. Severe pain, depressed mood, and fatigue were significant predictors for early referral (<7 months) of non‐Hispanic whites, but only severe fatigue (P <.05) was predictive of early referral for Hispanics and non‐Hispanic blacks. Furthermore, while the proportion of non‐Hispanic white patients reporting severe pain, depressed mood, and fatigue significantly decreased (P <.001) at first follow‐up visit after referral to the SCC; among Hispanics, improvement was only observed for depressed mood. No improvement in any of these symptoms was observed for non‐Hispanic blacks.

CONCLUSIONS:

Whereas the timing of referral to supportive services did not vary by race, disparities in symptom burden outcomes persisted. Additional studies are needed to validate our findings. Cancer 2012;. © 2011 American Cancer Society.
Urinary symptoms in breast cancer
Authors: Donovan Kristine A. , Boyington Alice R. , Ismail‐Khan Roohi , Wyman Jean F.
Published: July 2011

A large body of research has documented the prevalence and severity of menopausal symptoms, especially vasomotor symptoms, in breast cancer survivors and their impact on quality of life. However, urinary symptoms as part of the constellation of menopausal symptoms have received relatively little attention. Thus, less is known about the prevalence and severity of urinary symptoms in breast cancer survivors. The authors of this report conducted a systematic review of studies published between 1990 and 2010 to describe the prevalence and severity of urinary symptoms in breast cancer survivors. In total, 16 eligible studies that involved >2500 women were identified. The studies varied with respect to purpose, design, and nature of the samples included; the majority used the same definition and assessment approach for urinary symptoms. Prevalence rates for symptoms ranged from 12% of women reporting burning or pain on micturition to 58% reporting difficulty with bladder control. Although, in many studies, the largest percentage of women rated symptoms as mild, 23% reported severe symptoms. Symptoms appeared to adversely affect women's quality of life. The authors concluded that there is a need for additional research assessing the natural history of urinary symptoms using consensus definitions and validated measures in diverse populations. Nevertheless, this review suggested that clinicians should screen for urinary symptoms in breast cancer survivors and should offer treatment recommendations or make referrals as appropriate. Cancer 2012;. © 2011 American Cancer Society.
Interactions between environmental factors and polymorphisms in angiogenesis pathway genes in esophageal adenocarcinoma risk: A case‐only study
Authors: Zhai Rihong , Zhao Yang , Liu Geoffrey , Ter‐Minassian Monica , Wu I.‐Chen , Wang Zhaoxi , Su Li , Asomaning Kofi , Chen Feng , Kulke Matthew H. , Lin Xihong , Heist Rebecca S. , Wain John C. , Christiani David C.
Published: July 2011

BACKGROUND:

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), higher body mass index (BMI), smoking, and genetic variants in angiogenic pathway genes have been individually associated with increased risk of esophageal adenocarcinoma. However, how angiogenic gene polymorphisms and environmental factors jointly affect esophageal adenocarcinoma development remains unclear.

METHODS:

By using a case‐only design (n = 335), the authors examined interactions between 141 functional/tagging angiogenic single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and environmental factors (GERD, BMI, smoking) in modulating esophageal adenocarcinoma risk. Gene‐environment interactions were assessed by a 2‐step approach. First, the authors applied random forest to screen for important SNPs that had either main or interaction effects. Second, they used case‐only logistic regression to assess the effects of gene‐environment interactions on esophageal adenocarcinoma risk, adjusting for covariates and false‐discovery rate.

RESULTS:

Random forest analyses identified 3 sets of SNPs (17 SNPs‐GERD, 26 SNPs‐smoking, and 34 SNPs‐BMI) that had the highest importance scores. In subsequent logistic regression analyses, interactions between 2 SNPs (rs2295778 of HIF1AN, rs13337626 of TSC2) and GERD, 2 SNPs (rs2295778 of HIF1AN, rs2296188 of VEGFR1) and smoking, and 7 SNPs (rs2114039 of PDGRFA, rs2296188 of VEGFR1, rs11941492 of VEGFR1, rs17708574 of PDGFRB, rs7324547 of VEGFR1, rs17619601 of VEGFR1, and rs17625898 of VEGFR1) and BMI were significantly associated with esophageal adenocarcinoma development (all false‐discovery rates ≤0.10). Moreover, these interactions tended to have SNP dose‐response effects for increased esophageal adenocarcinoma risk with increasing number of combined risk genotypes.

CONCLUSIONS:

These findings suggest that genetic variations in angiogenic genes may modify esophageal adenocarcinoma susceptibility through interactions with environmental factors in an SNP dose‐response manner. Cancer 2012;. © 2011 American Cancer Society.
A randomized study of 2 dose levels of intravenous clofarabine in the treatment of patients with higher‐risk myelodysplastic syndrome
Authors: Faderl Stefan , Garcia‐Manero Guillermo , Jabbour Elias , Ravandi Farhad , Borthakur Gautam , Estrov Zeev , Gandhi Varsha , Byrd Anna L. , Kwari Monica , Cortes Jorge , Kantarjian Hagop M.
Published: July 2011

BACKGROUND:

Clofarabine is a nucleoside analog with activity in myeloid malignancies. Experience in myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) is limited.

METHODS:

The goal of this study was to evaluate the activity and safety of 2 different doses (15 mg/m2 vs 30 mg/m2 daily × 5 days) of intravenous clofarabine in patients with higher‐risk MDS. Fifty‐eight patients with a median age of 68 years (range, 25‐89) including 15 patients (28%) with secondary MDS and 35 patients (60%) who received prior DNA methyltransferase (DNMT) inhibitors were adaptively randomized between the 2 dose cohorts.

RESULTS:

The overall response rate (ORR; based on a modification of International Working Group criteria) was 36% including 26% with complete remission (CR) (ORR, 41% at 15 mg/m2 and 29% at 30 mg/m2). Responses were lower in patients who failed DNMT inhibitors (ORR, 17%; CR rate, 14%). The 8‐week mortality rate was 19%. Median survival was 7.4 months for all patients, 13.4 months for responders, and 21.7 months for complete responders. Some adverse events, particularly hepatic and renal, were more severe (grade >2) in patients randomized to 30 mg/m2 of clofarabine. Myelosuppression and infectious complications were frequent.

CONCLUSIONS:

Both the lower and higher doses of clofarabine have comparable clinical activity, but the lower dose appeared less toxic. If these results are confirmed, lower doses of clofarabine, possibly in alternative schedules, should be pursued. Cancer 2012;. © 2011 American Cancer Society.
Statin use and the risk of renal cell carcinoma in 2 prospective US cohorts
Authors: Liu Wei , Choueiri Toni K. , Cho Eunyoung
Published: July 2011

BACKGROUND:

Statins are widely used cholesterol‐lowering agents that may have potential antitumor effect. Epidemiological studies on statin use and renal cell carcinoma (RCC) risk have been inconsistent.

METHODS:

The authors investigated the association between statin use and RCC risk in the Nurses' Health Study and Health Professionals Follow‐Up Study. In total, 80,782 women and 37,869 men were followed for 14 years and 16 years, respectively. Regular statin use was assessed at baseline and was updated biennially during follow‐up. RCC diagnosis was confirmed by medical record review.

RESULTS:

Two hundred seventy‐seven incident RCC cases (164 women and 113 men) were identified. Compared with no current use, the multivariate relative risks of current statin use were 0.68 (95% confidence interval, 0.46‐1.00) in women and 1.17 (95% confidence interval, 0.75‐1.82) in men. The results for ever versus never users of statins were similar. No dose‐response relation with duration of statin use and RCC risk was observed. On subgroup analyses, statin use was associated with a reduced RCC risk among women who had no history of hypertension.

CONCLUSIONS:

The current study indicated that statin use may be associated with a lower risk of RCC in women, although these results need to be investigated further. Cancer 2012;. © 2011 American Cancer Society.
Application of the Hybrid Capture 2 assay to squamous cell carcinomas of the head and neck
Authors: Bishop Justin A. , Maleki Zahra , Valsamakis Alexandra , Ogawa Takenori , Chang Xiaofei , Pai Sara I. , Westra William H.
Published: July 2011

BACKGROUND:

A growing proportion of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). In light of the unique natural history and prognosis of HPV‐related HNSCCs, routine HPV testing is being incorporated into diagnostic protocols. Accordingly, there is an escalating demand for an optimal detection strategy that is sensitive and specific, transferrable to the diagnostic laboratory, standardized across laboratories, cost‐effective, and amenable to broad application across specimen types including cytologic preparations.

METHODS:

Cytologic preparations (fine‐needle aspirates [FNAs] and brushes) were obtained from surgically resected HNSCCs and evaluated for the presence of high‐risk HPV using the Hybrid Capture 2 assay. HPV analysis was also performed on the corresponding tissue sections using HPV in situ hybridization and p16 immunohistochemistry. In cases in which the immunohistochemical and in situ hybridization results were discordant, HPV status was determined by real‐time polymerase chain reaction detection of E7 expression. HPV status in the tissues and corresponding cytologic samples was compared.

RESULTS:

Based on benchmark HPV testing of the tissue sections, 14 HNSCCs were classified as HPV positive and 10 as HPV negative. All corresponding cytologic preparations were correctly classified using the Hybrid Capture 2 assay.

CONCLUSIONS:

The Hybrid Capture 2 strategy, already widely used for the detection of high‐risk HPV in cervical brushes, is readily transferrable to HNSCCs. Consistent accuracy in cytologic preparation suggests its potential application in FNAs from patients who present with lymph node metastases, and may eliminate the need to obtain tissue solely for the purpose of HPV testing. Cancer (Cancer Cytopathol) 2012. © 2011 American Cancer Society.
The diagnostic value of cell block as an adjunct to liquid‐based cytology of bronchial washing specimens in the diagnosis and subclassification of pulmonary neoplasms
Authors: Collins George R. , Thomas Jaiyeola , Joshi Neelam , Zhang Songlin
Published: July 2011

BACKGROUND:

To the authors' knowledge, the diagnostic value of cell block (CB) as an adjunct to ThinPrep liquid‐based cytology (LBC) of bronchial washing specimens in the detection and subclassification of pulmonary neoplasms has not been well evaluated. The objective of the current study was to evaluate the diagnostic utility of CB in this setting.

METHODS:

A total of 74 bronchial washing specimens and concurrently prepared CBs with a diagnosis of malignant or suspicious/atypical obtained from bronchoscopy procedures performed during 2009 were reviewed along with 28 randomly selected negative cases. LBC and CBs were reviewed independently. Deeper levels and ancillary studies were performed on CBs for specific tumor classification if needed. LBC and CB diagnoses were correlated with final histology and/or bronchial brushings.

RESULTS:

Use of CBs increased the number of positive diagnoses from 18 (LBC only) to 30 (combined LBC and CB) and 36 (combined LBC and CB with ancillary studies), with increased diagnostic yields of 67% and 100%, respectively. CB without ancillary techniques detected 22 malignancies whereas LBC detected 18 malignancies and CB with ancillary techniques detected 29 malignancies. A specific tumor diagnosis was possible in 22 of 29 (76%) malignancies detected by CB. Bronchial brushings and histology confirmed malignancy in 91% and 92% of cases, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS:

CB combined with LBC was found to improve the rate of detection of malignancy over LBC alone, especially in cases with suspicious or atypical LBC diagnoses. Increased diagnostic yield is observed when CB is used with or without ancillary studies, but the yield is higher with CB using ancillary studies. CB serves as yet another available source of diagnostic material for immunohistochemical and molecular studies. Cancer (Cancer Cytopathol) 2012;. © 2011 American Cancer Society.
p‐Nitrobenzoic Acid Adsorption on Nanostructured Gold Surfaces Investigated by Combined Experimental and Computational Approaches
Authors: Panek Jarosław J. , Jezierska‐Mazzarello Aneta , Koll Aleksander , Dovbeshko Galina , Fesenko Olena
Published: July 2011

Adsorption of guest molecules on host surfaces can lead to dramatic changes in the spectral properties of the guest. One such effect is surface‐enhanced infrared absorption (SEIRA), observed when the guest is adsorbed on, for example, thin films, metal surfaces, or nanotubes. p‐Nitrobenzoic acid (p‐NBA) exhibits a SEIRA effect when adsorbed on Ag and Au. Herein, the IR spectra of p‐NBA adsorbed on a homemade rough Au surface, recorded in reflection mode with an angle of incidence of 16.5°, are reported. This SEIRA experiment reveals more bands than found by previous SEIRA studies. The intensities of both symmetric and asymmetric COO− and NO2 stretching, in‐plane CH, and CC ring stretching modes are enhanced. Theoretical models constructed on the basis of density functional theory reveal the binding mode of p‐NBA to gold “particles”. The p‐NBA anion binds to gold much more strongly than the neutral form, and interaction via the carboxylic oxygen atoms is preferred over the nitro group–gold contact. A significant charge transfer during chemisorption is found, which is considered to be crucial in leading to a high SEIRA enhancement factor.
Brookite TiO2 Nanoparticle Films for Dye‐Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Magne Constance , Cassaignon Sophie , Lancel Gilles , Pauporté Thierry
Published: July 2011

Brookite TiO2 nanoparticles have been synthesized at low temperature by a soft solution growth method and have been used as building blocks to prepare pure brookite nanoparticle porous films. The film brookite structure was confirmed by XRD and Raman spectroscopy. By spectrophotometry, it was shown that the films had a direct band gap of 3.4 eV. After sensitization by the N719 dye, efficient cells have been produced. A best overall conversion efficiency of 5.97 %, without a scattering layer, was found for the larger TiO2 starting nanoparticles. The cell open‐circuit voltage was improved compared with that of anatase cells and a lower electron diffusion coefficient was found in the photoanodes made of smaller brookite particles. Lanthanum‐doped brookite nanoparticle films were also studied. They showed a marked decreased in the amount of dye loading, and hence, the solar cells had a reduced current density that was not compensated for by the increased open‐circuit voltage of the cells.
Temperature Dependence of the Viscosity and Conductivity of Mildly Functionalized and Non‐Functionalized [Tf2N]− Ionic Liquids
Authors: Bulut Safak , Eiden Philipp , Beichel Witali , Slattery John M. , Beyersdorff Tom F. , Schubert Thomas J. S. , Krossing Ingo
Published: July 2011

A series of bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide ionic liquids (ILs) with classical as well as mildly functionalized cations was prepared and their viscosities and conductivities were determined as a function of the temperature. Both were analyzed with respect to Arrhenius, Litovitz and Vogel–Fulcher–Tammann (VFT) behaviors, as well as in the context of their molecular volume (Vm). Their viscosity and conductivity are highly correlated with Vm/T or related expressions (R2≥0.94). With the knowledge of Vm of new cations, these correlations allow the temperature‐dependent prediction of the viscosity and conductivity of hitherto unknown, non‐ or mildly functionalized ILs with low error bars (0.05 and 0.04 log units, respectively). The influence of the cation structure and mild functionalization on the physical properties was studied with systematically altered cations, in which Vm remained similar. The To parameter obtained from the VFT fits was compared to the experimental glass temperature (Tg) and the Tg/To ratio for each IL was calculated using both experimental values and Angell’s relationship. With Walden plots we investigated the IL ionicity and interpreted it in relation to the cation effects on the physical IL properties. We checked the validity of these Vm/T relations by also including the recently published variable temperature viscosity and conductivity data of the [Al(ORF)4]− ILs with RF=C(H)(CF3)2 (error bars for the prediction: 0.09 and 0.10 log units, respectively).
Atropisomerism at C–N Bonds of Acyclic Amines: Synthesis and Application to Palladium‐Catalyzed Asymmetric Allylic Alkylations
Authors: Mino Takashi , Yamada Haruka , Komatsu Shingo , Kasai Mizuki , Sakamoto Masami , Fujita Tsutomu
Published: July 2011

Acyclic amines 1 were obtained by a nucleophilic aromatic substitution (SNAr) reaction and N‐methylation followed by silane reduction. The optical resolution of C(aryl)–N(amine) bond atropisomers of amines 1 is described. We found that chiral acyclic amine 1a can be resolved by crystallization without any outside chiral source. Finally, we demonstrate the ability of chiral amines 1 as a ligand in a palladium‐catalyzed asymmetric allylic alkylation (up to 93 % ee).
Fast decoding of the (23, 12, 7) Golay code with four‐error‐correcting capability
Authors: Chu Shao‐I , Lee Hung‐Peng , Chang Hsin‐Chiu
Published: July 2011

In this paper, a fast and efficient decoding algorithm for correcting the (23, 12, 7) Golay code up to four errors is presented. The aim of this paper is to develop a fast syndrome‐group search method for finding the candidate codewords by utilizing the property that the syndromes of the weight‐4 error patterns are identical to that of the weight‐3 error pattern. When the set of the candidate codewords is constructed, the most likely one is determined by assessing the corresponding correlation metrics. The well‐known Chase‐II decoder, which needs to perform the hard‐decision decoder multiple times, acts as a comparison basis. Simulation results over the additive white Gaussian noise channel show that the decoding complexity of the proposed method is averagely reduced by at least 86% in terms of the decoding time. Furthermore, the successful decoding percentage of the new decoder in the case of four errors is always superior to Chase‐II decoder. At the signal‐to‐noise ratio of 0 dB, the proposed algorithm still can correct up to 97.40% weight‐4 error patterns. The overall bit error rate performance of the proposed decoder is close to that of Chase‐II decoder. It implies that the new decoder is beneficial to the practical implementation. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.