bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Myocardial T2* is not affected by ageing, myocardial fibrosis, or impaired left ventricular function
Authors: Kirk Paul , Smith Gillian C. , Roughton Michael , He T. , Pennell Dudley J.
Published: October 2010

Purpose

To evaluate the influence of alterations in myocardial structure and function from increasing age, myocardial fibrosis, or impaired left ventricular function on myocardial T2*.

Materials and Methods

Myocardial T2* was measured in 126 subjects without cardiac iron loading, of whom 63 were normals of varying ages, 39 were patients with impaired left ventricular function from various nonsiderotic cardiac causes, and 24 were patients with chronic myocardial infarction affecting the interventricular septum (where myocardial T2* measurements are normally made).

Results

The median (Q1, Q3) of myocardial T2* in the normals was 36.3 ms (31.6, 45.4). There was no significant correlation between myocardial T2* and age (R2 = 0.04; P = 0.11). In the patients with impaired left ventricular function, the median myocardial T2* was 35.5 ms (31, 42.2) (P = 0.34 versus normals). There was no significant correlation between ejection fraction and T2* in patients with left ventricular impairment (R2 = 0.03; P = 0.33). In the patients with septal infarction, the median septal myocardial T2* was 35.4 ms (32.7, 43) (P = 0.81 vs normals).

Conclusion

There was no significant change in myocardial T2* associated with any alterations of myocardial structure and function occurring with increasing age, impairment of left ventricular function or septal fibrosis from chronic myocardial infarction. These results indicate that myocardial T2* measurements are robust to these potential confounding parameters. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2010;32:1095–1098. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Combined off‐resonance imaging and T2 relaxation in the rotating frame for positive contrast MR imaging of infection in a murine burn model
Authors: Andronesi Ovidiu C. , Mintzopoulos Dionyssios , Psychogios Nikolaos , Kesarwani Meenu , He Jianxin , Yasuhara Shingo , Dai George , Rahme Laurence G. , Tzika Aria A.
Published: October 2010

Purpose

To develop novel magnetic resonance (MR) imaging methods to monitor accumulation of macrophages in inflammation and infection. Positive‐contrast MR imaging provides an alternative to negative‐contrast MRI, exploiting the chemical shift induced by ultra‐small superparamagnetic iron‐oxide (USPIO) nanoparticles to nearby water molecules. We introduce a novel combination of off‐resonance (ORI) positive‐contrast MRI and T2ρ relaxation in the rotating frame (ORI‐T2ρ) for positive‐contrast MR imaging of USPIO.

Materials and Methods

We tested ORI‐T2ρ in phantoms and imaged in vivo the accumulation of USPIO‐labeled macrophages at the infection site in a mouse model of burn trauma and infection with Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PA). PA infection is clinically important. The USPIO nanoparticles were injected directly in the animals in solution, and macrophage labeling occurred in vivo in the animal model.

Results

We observed a significant difference between ORI‐T2ρ and ORI, which leads us to suggest that ORI‐T2ρ is more sensitive in detecting USPIO signal. To this end, the ORI‐T2ρ positive contrast method may prove to be of higher utility in future research.

Conclusion

Our results may have direct implications in the longitudinal monitoring of infection, and open perspectives for testing novel anti‐infective compounds. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2010;32:1172–1183. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Screening for embryonic loss during in utero development of mice with a human 1.5 Tesla clinical MRI scanner
Authors: Gruemmer Ruth , Maderwald Stefan , Winterhager Elke , Hauth Elke
Published: October 2010

Purpose

To establish in utero MRI‐scanning of mouse implantation sites in a 1.5 Tesla whole‐body human clinical scanner for evaluation of impaired implantation, placental or developmental defects due to genetic alterations.

Materials and Methods

Pregnant C57Bl/6 wild‐type and Cx31‐deficient mice revealing placental defects were analyzed in utero using a 1.5 Tesla whole‐body clinical scanner in combination with a 3‐cm‐diameter single loop (slice thickness: 1.2 mm). Imaging of implantation sites was evaluated from 6.5–13.5 dpc and amount of implantation sites and in vivo development was analyzed during the critical phase of placentation from 10.5–13.5 dpc.

Results

This method provided high resolution in plane images permitting confident identification of all implantation sites from 6.5 dpc onward. A loss of 60% of Cx31‐deficient embryos was demonstrated compared with controls. Repeated anesthesia as well as imaging protocols produced no gross malformations in the surviving mice.

Conclusion

Using a human clinical MRI scanner high resolution imaging of the entire uterus of the mice and all the embryos inside could be performed. This method is well suited to noninvasively monitor and quantify embryo implantation and to follow this dynamic process in vivo without compromising pregnancy progression and embryonic development. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2010;32:1158–1165. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
In vivo MR imaging tracking of transplanted mesenchymal stem cells in a rabbit model of acute peripheral nerve traction injury
Authors: Shen Jun , Duan Xiao‐Hui , Cheng Li‐Na , Zhong Xiao‐Mei , Guo Ruo‐Mi , Zhang Fang , Zhou Cui‐Ping , Liang Bi‐Ling
Published: October 2010

Purpose

To investigate in vivo MRI tracking mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in peripheral nerve injures using a clinically available paramagnetic contrast agent (Gd‐DTPA) and commercially available rhodamine‐incorporated transfection reagents (PEI‐FluoR).

Materials and Methods

After bone marrow MSCs were labeled with Gd‐DTPA and PEI‐FluoR complex, the labeling efficacy and longevity of Gd‐DTPA maintenance were measured and cell viability, proliferation, and apoptosis were assessed. Thirty‐six rabbits with acute sciatic nerve traction injury randomly received 1 × 106 labeled (n = 12) or unlabeled MSCs (n = 12) or vehicle alone injection. The distribution and migration of implanted cells was followed by MRI and correlated with histology. The relative signal intensity (RSL) of the grafts was measured.

Results

The labeling efficiency was 76 ± 4.7% and the labeling procedure did not inﬂuence cell viability, proliferation, and apoptosis. A persistent higher RSL in grafts was found in the labeled group compared with the unlabeled and vehicle groups until 10 days after transplantation (P < 0.05). The distribution and migration of labeled cells could be tracked by MRI until 10 days after transplantation. Transplanted MSCs were not found to transdifferentiate into Schwann‐like cells within 14‐day follow‐up.

Conclusion

Labeling MSCs with the dual agents may enable cellular MRI of the engraftment in the experimental peripheral nerve injury. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2010;32:1076–1085. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Noncontrast SSFP pulmonary vein magnetic resonance angiography: Impact of off‐resonance and flow
Authors: Hu Peng , Stoeck Christian T. , Smink Jouke , Peters Dana C. , Ngo Long , Goddu Beth , Kissinger Kraig V. , Goepfert Lois A. , Chan Jonathan , Hauser Thomas H. , Rofsky Neil M. , Manning Warren J. , Nezafat Reza
Published: October 2010

Purpose

To investigate pulmonary vein (PV) off‐resonance and blood flow as causes of signal void artifacts in noncontrast steady‐state‐free‐precession (SSFP) PV magnetic resonance angiography (MRA).

Materials and Methods

PV blood off‐resonance was measured on 11 healthy adult subjects and 10 atrial fibrillation (AF) patients. Noncontrast PV MRA was performed using a 3D slab‐selective SSFP sequence at 1.5T on seven healthy subjects with signal profile shifts of 0–125 Hz. The time‐resolved blood flow velocity of the PVs was measured on five healthy subjects. The impact of flow was studied on six healthy subjects, on whom SSFP PV MRA was acquired twice with the electrocardiogram (ECG) trigger delay corresponding to low and high flow, respectively.

Results

The PV off‐resonances were 97 ± 27 Hz, 65 ± 20 Hz, 74 ± 25 Hz, and 52 ± 17 Hz for right inferior, left inferior, right superior, and left superior PVs, respectively, on healthy subjects, and 74 ± 20 Hz, 38 ± 9 Hz, 51 ± 20 Hz, and 28 ± 11 Hz on AF patients (P<0.01 for all). The off‐resonance caused severe signal voids in the PVs. Signal acquired during mid‐diastole with high PV flow caused additional signal voids in the left atrium, which was reduced by setting the ECG trigger delay to late‐diastole.

Conclusion

PV off‐resonance and flow causes signal void artifacts in noncontrast 3D slab‐selective SSFP PV MRA. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2010;32:1255–1261. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Reconstruction of 3D dynamic contrast‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging using nonlocal means
Authors: Adluru Ganesh , Tasdizen Tolga , Schabel Matthias C. , DiBella Edward V.R.
Published: October 2010

Purpose

To develop and test a nonlocal means‐based reconstruction algorithm for undersampled 3D dynamic contrast‐enhanced (DCE) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of tumors.

Materials and Methods

We propose a reconstruction technique that is based on the recently proposed nonlocal means (NLM) filter which can relax trade‐offs in spatial and temporal resolutions in dynamic imaging. Unlike the original application of NLM for image denoising, the MR reconstruction framework here can offer high‐quality images from undersampled k‐space data. The method is based on enforcing similarity constraints in terms of neighborhoods of pixels rather than individual pixels. The method was applied on undersampled 3D DCE imaging of breast and brain tumor datasets and the results were compared to sliding window reconstructions and to a compressed sensing method using total variation constraints on the images.

Results

Undersampling factors of up to five were obtained with the proposed approach while preserving the spatial and temporal characteristics. The NLM reconstruction method offered improved performance over the sliding window and the total variation constrained reconstruction techniques.

Conclusion

The reconstruction framework here can give high‐quality images from undersampled DCE MRI data and has the potential to improve the quality of DCE tumor imaging. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2010;32:1217–1227. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Improved aortic pulse wave velocity assessment from multislice two‐directional in‐plane velocity‐encoded magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Westenberg Jos J.M. , de Roos Albert , Grotenhuis Heynric B. , Steendijk Paul , Hendriksen Dennis , van den Boogaard Pieter J. , van der Geest Rob J. , Bax Jeroen J. , Jukema J. Wouter , Reiber Johan H.C.
Published: October 2010

Purpose

To evaluate the accuracy and reproducibility of aortic pulse wave velocity (PWV) assessment by in‐plane velocity‐encoded magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Materials and Methods

In 14 patients selected for cardiac catheterization on suspicion of coronary artery disease and 15 healthy volunteers, PWV was assessed with multislice two‐directional in‐plane velocity‐encoded MRI (PWVi.p.) and compared with conventionally assessed PWV from multisite one‐directional through‐plane velocity‐encoded MRI (PWVt.p.). In patients, PWV was also obtained from intraarterially acquired pressure–time curves (PWVpressure), which is considered the gold standard reference method. In volunteers, PWVi.p. and PWVt.p. were obtained in duplicate in the same examination to test reproducibility.

Results

In patients, PWVi.p. showed stronger correlation and similar variation with PWVpressure than PWVt.p. (Pearson correlation r = 0.75 vs. r = 0.58, and coefficient of variation [COV] = 10% vs. COV = 12%, respectively). In volunteers, repeated PWVi.p. assessment showed stronger correlation and less variation than repeated PWVt.p. (proximal aorta: r = 0.97 and COV = 10% vs. r = 0.69 and COV = 17%; distal aorta: r = 0.94 and COV = 12% vs. r = 0.90 and COV = 16%; total aorta: r = 0.97 and COV = 7% vs. r = 0.90 and COV = 13%).

Conclusion

PWVi.p. is an improvement over conventional PWVt.p. by showing higher agreement as compared to the gold standard (PWVpressure) and higher reproducibility for repeated MRI assessment. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2010;32:1086–1094. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Diagnosis of colorectal hepatic metastases: Contrast‐enhanced ultrasonography versus contrast‐enhanced computed tomography versus superparamagnetic iron oxide‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging with diffusion‐weighted imaging
Authors: Muhi Ali , Ichikawa Tomoaki , Motosugi Utaroh , Sou Hironobu , Nakajima Hiroto , Sano Katsuhiro , Kitamura Takatoshi , Faima Zareen , Fukushima Kimiyo , Araki Tsutomu , Iino Hiroshi , Mori Yoshiyuki , Fujii Hideki
Published: October 2010

Purpose

To compare the diagnostic accuracy of contrast‐enhanced ultrasonography (CE‐US), contrast‐enhanced CT (CE‐CT), and superparamagnetic iron oxide‐enhanced MRI (SPIO‐MRI) with diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI) in the evaluation of colorectal hepatic metastases.

Materials and Methods

Thirty‐six patients with colorectal cancers were prospectively enrolled and retrospectively evaluated. Of the 86 metastases identified, 16 were confirmed histologically and the remaining 70 were confirmed by follow‐up imaging. CE‐CT and SPIO‐MRI + DWI were independently evaluated by two readers, whereas CE‐US was evaluated by consensus reading of two different readers. Area under receiver operating characteristic curve (Az), sensitivities, and positive predictive values (PPVs) were calculated and compared.

Results

For both readers, SPIO‐MRI+DWI had significantly greater Az (0.879 and 0.904) and sensitivity (78% and 87%) for all lesions compared with CE‐CT (0.779 and 0.793; 59% and 59%) and CE‐US (0.811; 69%), and significantly greater Az (0.783 and 0.837) and sensitivity (56% and 73%) for lesions ≤1 cm compared with CE‐CT (0.562 and 0.601; 20% and 22%) and CE‐US (0.66; 37%). For lesions >1 cm, there was no significant difference in Az, sensitivity and PPV between all the image sets.

Conclusion

SPIO‐MRI with DWI was the most reliable modality for evaluation of liver metastases particularly for lesions ≤1 cm. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2010;32:1132–1140. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Association between serial dynamic contrast‐enhanced MRI and dynamic 18F‐FDG PET measures in patients undergoing neoadjuvant chemotherapy for locally advanced breast cancer
Authors: Partridge Savannah C. , Vanantwerp Risa K. , Doot Robert K. , Chai Xiaoyu , Kurland Brenda F. , Eby Peter R. , Specht Jennifer M. , Dunnwald Lisa K. , Schubert Erin K. , Lehman Constance D. , Mankoff David A.
Published: October 2010

Purpose

To investigate the relationship between changes in vascularity and metabolic activity measured by dynamic contrast‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE‐MRI) and dynamic 18F‐FDG‐positron emission tomography (PET) in breast tumors undergoing neoadjuvant chemotherapy.

Materials and Methods

PET and MRI examinations were performed in 14 patients with locally advanced breast cancer (LABC) before and after chemotherapy. Dynamic 18F‐FDG PET measures included 18F‐FDG transport rate constant from blood to tissue (K1) and metabolism flux constant (Ki). DCE‐MRI measures included initial peak enhancement (PE), signal enhancement ratio (SER), and tumor volume. Spearman rank‐order correlations were assessed between changes in PET and MRI parameters, and measures were compared between patients with and without pathologic complete response (pCR) by Mann–Whitney U‐test.

Results

Changes in glucose delivery (PET K1) were closely correlated with changes in tumor vascularity as reflected by DCE‐MRI SER (r = 0.83, P < 0.001). Metabolic changes in PET Ki showed moderate correlations with vascularity changes as reflected by SER (r = 0.71) and PE (r = 0.76), and correlated closely with MRI tumor volume (r = 0.79, P < 0.001). Decreases in K1, Ki, SER, and PE were greater for patients with pCR compared to those with residual disease (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Dynamic 18F‐FDG PET and DCE‐MRI tumor measures of tumor metabolism, vascularity, and volume were well correlated for assessing LABC response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy and significantly discriminated pathologic complete responders. Further work is necessary to assess the value of combined PET and MRI for evaluating tumor pharmacodynamics in response to novel therapy. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2010;32:1124–1131. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Chemical shift imaging in the head and neck at 3T: Initial results
Authors: Yeung David K.W. , Fong Kwan‐Ying , Chan Queenie C.C. , King Ann D.
Published: October 2010

Purpose

To determine the optimal method to correct air and tissue susceptibility differences in the head and neck to allow proton (1H) chemical shift imaging (CSI) to be performed at 3T.

Materials and Methods

Shimming protocols (iterative, first‐order, and second‐order) and perfluorocarbon (PFC) pads were evaluated using water peak linewidth measurements obtained from single‐voxel magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) on a head and neck phantom. After optimization of the technique, CSI was then tested on 14 patients with head and neck tumors.

Results

Second‐order shimming (water peak linewidth, 4.6 Hz) performed significantly (P < 0.001) better than first‐order (16.5 Hz) and iterative shimming (18 Hz) and the water peak linewidth was significantly reduced using PFC pads (P < 0.001). Using second‐order shimming and PFC pads, CSI was successful in 10 patients with nodal metastases (n = 8) and benign tumors (n = 2) and unsuccessful in four patients with primary tumors along the aerodigestive tract.

Conclusion

Proton CSI can be successfully performed in the head and neck using second‐order shimming and PFC pads to correct air and tissue susceptibility differences. CSI was more successfully performed on nodal metastases, while CSI for primary tumors along the aerodigestive tract remains a challenge. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2010;32:1248–1254. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Diffusion tensor imaging of liver fibrosis in an experimental model
Authors: Cheung Jerry S. , Fan Shu Juan , Gao Darwin S. , Chow April M. , Man Kwan , Wu Ed X.
Published: October 2010

Purpose

To characterize changes in diffusion properties of liver using diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) in an experimental model of liver fibrosis.

Materials and Methods

Liver fibrosis was induced in Sprague–Dawley rats (n = 12) by repetitive dosing of carbon tetrachloride (CCl4). The animals were examined with a respiratory‐gated single‐shot spin‐echo echo‐planar DTI protocol at 7 T before, 2 weeks after, and 4 weeks after CCl4 insult. Apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), directional diffusivities (ADC// and ADC⟂), and fractional anisotropy (FA) were measured. Liver histology was performed with hematoxylin‐eosin staining and Masson's trichrome staining.

Results

Significant decrease (P < 0.01) in ADC was found at 2 weeks (0.86 ± 0.09 × 10−3 mm2/s) and 4 weeks (0.74 ± 0.09 × 10−3 mm2/s) following CCl4 insult, as compared with that before insult (0.97 ± 0.08 × 10−3 mm2/s). Meanwhile, FA at 2 weeks (0.18 ± 0.03) after CCl4 insult was significantly lower (P < 0.01) than that before insult (0.26 ± 0.05), and subsequently normalized at 4 weeks (0.26 ± 0.07) after the insult. Histology showed collagen deposition, presence of intracellular fat vacuoles, and cell necrosis/apoptosis in livers with CCl4 insult.

Conclusion

DTI detected the progressive changes in water diffusivities and diffusion anisotropy of liver tissue in this liver fibrosis model. ADC and FA are potentially valuable in detecting liver fibrosis at early stages and monitoring its progression. Future human studies are warranted to further verify the applicability of DTI in characterizing liver fibrosis and to determine its role in clinical settings. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2010;32:1141–1148. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Comparison of magnetic resonance imaging with transthoracic echocardiography in the diagnosis of ventricular septal defect‐associated coronary cusp prolapse
Authors: Yoshimura Norihiko , Hori Yoshiro , Horii Yousuke , Suzuki Hiroshi , Hasegawa Satoshi , Takahashi Masashi , Watanabe Hiroshi
Published: October 2010

Purpose

To compare magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) in the diagnosis of coronary cusp prolapse (CCP) as a complication of ventricular septal defect (VSD).

Materials and Methods

Twenty‐three patients (10 males, 13 females, mean age 9 years) with clinically suspected CCP were included in a retrospective study. Long and short axis cine images and electrocardiogram (ECG)‐gated axial T1‐weighted image MRI images were evaluated for deformity and protrusion of right and noncoronary cusps. We compared MRI and TTE results. We compared the agreement between MRI and TTE in outlet VSD and membranous VSD.

Results

On MRI, 19 patients had right coronary cusp prolapse (RCCP), three had noncoronary cusp prolapse (NCCP), and one patient had RCCP and NCCP on MRI. Twenty‐two patients had RCCP on TTE and none had NCCP. Seventeen patients had outlet defects and six patients had a membranous defect at operation. All patients with an outlet VSD had RCCP on both MRI and TTE. The agreement between MRI and TTE in outlet VSD was better than in membranous VSD.

Conclusion

MRI results corresponded with TTE results in patients with outlet VSDs, but discordant results were observed in patients with membranous VSDs. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2010;32:1099–1103. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effects of formalin fixation on magnetic resonance indices in multiple sclerosis cortical gray matter
Authors: Schmierer Klaus , Thavarajah Janet R. , An Shu F. , Brandner Sebastian , Miller David H. , Tozer Daniel J.
Published: October 2010

Purpose

To investigate changes in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) indices following formalin fixation of postmortem multiple sclerosis (MS) cortical gray matter (CGM). Postmortem MS brain is being used to establish pathological correlates of changes detected using MRI, with recent emphasis on CGM. Fixation induces tissue alterations that may confound inference of in vivo observations from MRI/histology correlation studies.

Materials and Methods

T2‐weighted scans were obtained alongside quantitative T1, magnetization transfer ratio (MTR), and macromolecular proton fraction (fB) measurements before and after formalin fixation of 15 postmortem brain samples. Type and size of CGM lesions (CGML) was identified on sections immunostained for myelin basic protein.

Results

MRI indices obtained in unfixed MS CGM were similar to values obtained in subjects with MS in vivo. Fixation led to reduction in T1 (617 msec [standard deviation = 114] vs. 1156 msec [216]) and MTR (24.1 [3.3] percent units [pu] vs. 29.1 [2.5] pu) and increase in fB (5.4 [0.7] pu vs. 3.2 [2.3] pu) (all P < 0.01). The proportion of CGM affected by demyelination did not alter the MRI data.

Conclusion

MRI indices in the CGM are significantly altered following tissue fixation. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2010;32:1054–1060. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Breaking rules for the right reasons? An investigation of pro‐social rule breaking
Authors: Dahling Jason J. , Chau Samantha L. , Mayer David M. , Gregory Jane B.
Published: October 2010

Pro‐social rule breaking (PSRB) is a form of constructive deviance characterized by volitional rule breaking in the interest of the organization or its stakeholders. Over the course of three studies, we developed a generalizable measure of PSRB and placed it in a nomological network with personality, workplace perceptions, counterproductive behaviors, and task and contextual performance ratings made by supervisors and coworkers. Results indicate that PSRB is negatively related to task performance ratings across both sources despite its pro‐social motivation intended to help the organization. Potential directions for future research concerning reactions to constructive deviance are discussed. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Can testate amoeba‐based palaeohydrology be extended to fens?
Authors: Payne Richard J.
Published: October 2010

Numerous palaeoecological studies have used testate amoeba analysis to reconstruct Holocene hydrological change in peatlands, and thereby past climatic change. Current studies have been almost exclusively restricted to ombrotrophic bogs and the period since the fen–bog transition. Although the critical link between peatland surface wetness and climate is less direct in minerotrophic peatlands, such records may still be of value where there are few others, particularly if multiple records can be derived and inter‐compared. Expanding the temporal and spatial scope of testate amoeba‐based palaeohydrology to minerotrophic peatlands requires studies to establish the primacy of hydrology and the efficacy of transfer functions across a range of sites. This study analyses testate amoeba data from wetlands spanning the trophic gradient in the eastern Mediterranean region. Results demonstrate that different types of wetlands have distinctly different amoeba communities, but hydrology remains the most important environmental control (despite water table depth being measured at different times for different sites). Interestingly, Zn and Fe emerge as significant environmental variables in a subset of sites with geochemical data. Testate amoeba–hydrology transfer functions perform well in cross‐validation but frequently perform poorly when applied to other sites, particularly with sites of a different nutrient status. It may be valid to use testate amoebae to reconstruct hydrological change from minerotrophic peatlands with an applicable transfer function; however, it may not be appropriate to use testate amoebae to reconstruct hydrological change through periods of ecosystem evolution, particularly the fen–bog transition. In practice, the preservation of amoeba shells is likely to be a key problem for palaeoecological reconstruction from fens. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Genetic alterations of K‐ras may reflect prognosis in stage III colon cancer patients below 60 years of age
Authors: Onozato Wataru , Yamashita Keishi , Yamashita Kazuya , Kuba Tatsuru , Katoh Hiroshi , Nakamura Takatoshi , Sato Takeo , Ihara Atsushi , Okayasu Isao , Watanabe Masahiko
Published: October 2010

Purpose

Genetic alterations that are closely associated with patient prognosis can be landmarks of definitive therapeutic targets as well as useful biomarkers in human cancer clinics.

Methods

Three hundred seventy‐eight colorectal cancer (CRC) patients were examined for K‐ras mutations by single‐strand conformation polymorphism (SSCP), with a subsequent 144 young colon cancer (YCC) patients added to validate its prognostic significance.

Results

K‐ras mutations were identified in 161 (43%) of the 378 CRC patients and were significantly associated with tumor location (colon vs. rectum; 80/218 = 37% vs. 81/160 = 51%; P = 0.0068) and age (≥60 vs. <60; 103/220 = 47% vs. 58/158 = 37%; P = 0.049). The incidence of K‐ras mutations was 30% in YCC patients as compared to 55% in elderly rectal cancer patients (P = 0.0004). K‐ras mutations significantly correlated with a worse prognosis (P = 0.0014) only in 73 curatively resected YCC with stages I–III, but not in other CRCs, which was further validated in the independent set of the corresponding 144 YCC patients (P = 0.024). Both univariate and multivariate analyses identified K‐ras mutations as an independent prognostic factor (HR = 5.5, P = 0.029; HR = 3.6, P = 0.011) in both learning and validation sets of the curatively resected YCC with stages I–III, respectively, and the prognostic relevance was marked in stage III YCC patients (P = 0.002), but not in stages I, II, and IV.

Conclusion

In curative YCC, K‐ras mutations could have excellent prognostic value. Hence, the K‐ras mutation status could be a good indicator to predict the clinical outcome in curatively resected stage III YCC patients, and K‐ras pathway inhibition may be a relevant therapeutic target in CRC, excluding YCC patients with no K‐ras mutation. J. Surg. Oncol. 2011;103:25–33. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Conformal radiofrequency ablation of hepatocellular carcinoma with a multi‐pin bipolar system
Authors: Peng Zhen‐Wei , Liang Hui‐Hong , Chen Min‐Shan , Zhang Yao‐Jun , Zhang Ya‐Qi , Lau Wan Y.
Published: October 2010

Background

To retrospectively evaluate the effectiveness and safety of radiofrequency ablation (RFA) for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) with a multi‐pin bipolar system.

Methods

Between August 2005 and December 2006, 18 patients with 30 HCCs (3.40 ± 1.24 cm, range 1.30–6.0 cm; median number of treated lesions is two per patient, range, 1–3) underwent percutaneous RFA with a multi‐pin bipolar system under ultrasound guidance. The primary end‐point were treatment efficacy, major and minor complications, and the secondary end‐point were overall survival and tumor‐free survival.

Results

Complete ablation with conformed shape to the index tumor was achieved in 16 of 18 patients, and 28 of the 30 tumors were completely ablated. On follow‐up, local and distant intrahepatic tumor progression rates were 12.5% (2 of 16 patients) and 62.5% (10 of 16 patients). There was no patient who developed extrahepatic metastasis. There were no major complications. The 1‐, 2‐year overall survival rates for all patients were 83.3%, 55.6%, respectively, and the corresponding tumor‐free survivals were 50.0%, 22.2%, respectively.

Conclusion

RFA with a multi‐pin bipolar system was effective and safe for HCC. A large ablation volume could be achieved which conformed to the shape of the index tumor. J. Surg. Oncol. 2011;103:69–74. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Elevated serum CRP levels after induction chemoradiotherapy reflect poor treatment response in association with IL‐6 in serum and local tumor site in patients with advanced esophageal cancer
Authors: Fujiwara Hitoshi , Suchi Kentaro , Okamura Shinichi , Okamura Hiroko , Umehara Seiji , Todo Momoko , Shiozaki Atsushi , Kubota Takeshi , Ichikawa Daisuke , Okamoto Kazuma , Ochiai Toshiya , Kokuba Yukihito , Sonoyama Teruhisa , Otsuji Eigo
Published: October 2010

Background and Objectives

Elevated serum CRP levels are associated with tumor progression and poor prognosis of esophageal cancer. The aim of this study was to clarify the clinical significance of CRP in relation to response to chemoradiotherapy in patients with esophageal cancer.

Methods

The relationship between serum CRP levels and response to chemoradiotherapy and prognosis was analyzed in 34 patients with advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma who underwent induction chemoradiotherapy followed by surgery. The relationship between response to chemoradiotherapy and interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) expression in sera and tumor tissues was also analyzed.

Results

Although elevated serum CRP levels were associated with poor response to chemoradiotherapy, significant difference in CRP levels between pathological responders (n = 18) and non‐responders (n = 16) was observed after chemoradiotherapy, but not before. Patients with elevated CRP levels had shorter cause‐specific survival, but significant difference was observed only after chemoradiotherapy. In addition, serum levels of IL‐6 were also associated with poor treatment response following chemoradiotherapy and were correlated with residual tumor volume. IL‐6 expression was detected in residual tumor tissues by immunohistochemistry.

Conclusions

Elevated serum CRP levels after chemoradiotherapy may predict poor response to chemoradiotherapy more accurately than before chemoradiotherapy, and IL‐6 may be a possible target associated with chemoradiotherapy resistance. J. Surg. Oncol. 2011;103:62–68. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Lateral approach to central compartment of neck
Authors: Pathak K. Alok , Jabab AbdulSalam S. Al , Kazi Rehan , Nason Richard W.
Published: October 2010

Revision surgery in central compartment of neck is often a challenge for the head and neck surgical oncologists/endocrine surgeons. This is often required for completion thyroidectomies, central compartment lymph node dissections, and re‐exploration for persistent hyperparathyroidism. Scarring in midline due to prior surgery makes midline access to central compartment difficult and increases the risk of injury to recurrent laryngeal nerve and parathyroid glands. This article describes a simple technique of approaching central compartment between sternocleidomastoid and strap muscles. J. Surg. Oncol. 2011;103:101–102. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Appendiceal carcinoid tumors: Predictors of lymph node metastasis and the impact of right hemicolectomy on survival
Authors: Groth Shawn S. , Virnig Beth A. , Al‐Refaie Waddah B. , Jarosek Stephanie L. , Jensen Eric H. , Tuttle Todd M.
Published: October 2010

Background and Objectives

Given the lack of population‐based data in the literature, we sought to (1) identify predictors of appendiceal carcinoid tumor nodal metastasis to distinguish which patients would most likely benefit from hemicolectomy and (2) compare survival after hemicolectomy versus appendectomy alone.

Methods

Using the Surveillance Epidemiology and End Results Database (1988–2005), we identified patients with appendiceal carcinoid tumors who underwent resection. We identified risk factors for nodal metastasis using logistic regression models and used the Kaplan–Meier method to compare adjusted overall and cancer‐specific survival after right hemicolectomy versus appendectomy alone.

Results

576 patients met our inclusion criteria. We found that tumor size (>2.0 cm) and tumor histology (pure carcinoid tumors) were significant predictors of lymph node metastasis. After stratifying by tumor size, we did not detect a significant difference in survival between patients who underwent hemicolectomy and those that underwent appendectomy alone (log‐rank, P > 0.10).

Conclusions

Tumor size and histology are significant predictors of appendiceal carcinoid tumor nodal metastasis and therefore may be helpful to identify which patients would most likely benefit from a hemicolectomy. However, our population‐based study did not demonstrate a significant difference in adjusted survival rates between hemicolectomy versus appendectomy alone. J. Surg. Oncol. 2011;103:39–45. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Prognostic significance of expression of vegf and cox‐2 in nasopharyngeal carcinoma and its association with expression of C‐erbB2 and EGFR
Authors: Kim Tae‐Jung , Lee Youn Soo , Kang Jin‐Hyung , Kim Yeon‐Sil , Kang Chang Suk
Published: October 2010

Background and Objectives

This study evaluated several tumor angiogenesis‐related markers to examine their expression pattern and relation to clinicopathologic implications of nasopharyngeal carcinoma.

Methods

Paraffin sections from 69 nasopharyngeal carcinomas obtained before radiotherapy were prepared. The expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), cyclooxygenase‐2 (Cox‐2), C‐erbB2, and epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) were investigated by immunohistochemistry and then correlated with various clinicopathologic parameters.

Results

VEGF was inversely correlated with C‐erbB2 (P = 0.036). In survival analysis, high mitosis (≥5/10 high power field) was significantly associated with worse relapse‐free survival in univariate analysis (P = 0.048) but not in multivariate analysis (P = 0.153). High stage, high mitotic rate, absence of VEGF, and presence of Cox‐2 were associated with worse survival in both univariate analysis (P = 0.002, P = 0.038, P = 0.044, and P = 0.028, respectively) and multivariate analysis (P = 0.007, P = 0.036, P = 0.047, and P = 0.004, respectively).

Conclusions

Absence of VEGF is a useful indicator of poor prognosis in addition to Cox‐2 expression, high stage, and high mitosis. J. Surg. Oncol. 2011;103:46–52. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Integration of normal phase liquid chromatography with supercritical fluid chromatography for analysis of fruiting bodies of Ganoderma lucidum
Authors: Gao Liang , Zhang Jie , Zhang Weibing , Shan Yichu , Liang Zhen , Zhang Lihua , Huo Yushu , Zhang Yukui
Published: October 2010

In this study, a comprehensive 2‐D chromatography was constructed, consisting of normal phase LC (NPLC) with a CN column as the first dimension, and supercritical fluid chromatography (SFC), with a Merck Chromolith Flash C18 column as the second dimension, which were connected by a 10‐port, dual‐position valve controlled automatically by a self‐designed software. Such platform was applied into the analysis of the fruiting bodies of Ganoderma lucidum, a traditional Chinese medicine, and within 2 h analysis, the obtained peak capacity of the 2‐D‐NPLC‐SFC system was about 350, obviously higher than that of each dimension. These results demonstrate that 2‐D‐NPLC‐SFC is not only of good orthogonality, but also of high throughput for the analysis of complex samples.
Separation of parent homopolymers from diblock copolymers by liquid chromatography under limiting conditions of desorption 4. Role of eluent and temperature
Authors: Berek Dušan
Published: October 2010

Liquid chromatography under limiting conditions of desorption (LC LCD) enables fast, base‐line discrimination of both parent homopolymers from various diblock copolymers in one single step. The low molecular admixtures are fully separated, as well. General rules are discussed in detail for selection of mobile phases and temperature applied in LC LCD of block copolymers. Typical practical separation examples are presented. It is shown that both the composition of the well‐selected LC LCD mobile phase and the temperature of experiment may vary in a broad range without affecting the basics of method. This implies that the method is robust and user friendly.
A review on the development of liquid chromatography systems for polyolefins
Authors: Macko Tibor , Brüll Robert , Zhu Yutian , Wang Yongmei
Published: October 2010

Polyolefins are the most widely produced synthetic polymer commodity and are found in countless applications ranging from bottles, packaging films to bullet‐proof jackets, etc. Such widely different applications rely on high variability in the physical properties of polyolefins, which is a result of variations in microstructure, chemical composition and molar mass. Though polyolefins contain only carbon (C) and hydrogen (H) atoms, the microstructures of polyolefins are extremely variable, differing in the nature of the monomers (e.g. ethylene versus propylene), the degree of branching, chemical composition in the case of copolymers and finally their molar masses. Production, research and development of polyolefins require the analysis of polyolefin samples in terms of all these parameters. Development of efficient and robust analytical techniques based on the interactive LC is reviewed. The needed computational/theoretical studies to understand the retention mechanism in the newly developed chromatography systems are discussed.
Micron‐sized pillars for ion‐pair reversed‐phase DNA separations
Authors: De Malsche Wim , Zhang Lei , Op De Beeck Jeff , Vangelooven Joris , Majeed Bivragh , Desmet Gert
Published: October 2010

In the present paper, the feasibility to construct micron‐sized silicon pillar channels to be used in HPLC is studied. For this, a channel with flow‐through pores of 1 μm and with critical sidewall dimensions below 1 μm was constructed using advanced deep‐UV lithographic equipment. Integrating a 3‐nL injection system on the chip directly in front of the separation channel and using elongated distribution structures, a very controlled and high aspect ratio sample definition across the relatively wide separation channel was accomplished. The system was evaluated in isocratic ion‐pair RP mode, allowing the separation of a mixture of two components with, respectively, 300 and 400 base pairs in 5 s only.
Laser therapy: A review of its mechanism of action and potential medical applications
Authors: Tata D.B. , Waynant R.W.
Published: October 2010

Civilizations in antiquity have endeavored to champion the use of light to treat illnesses in the human body. Although laser light has unique applications in medicine, its mechanism of action for low intensity exposures on cells, tissues, and the body continues to be controversial after nearly 50 years of investigations. This paper presents evidence for visible red and near infrared light to induce (indirect) generation of hydrogen peroxide as an important chemical messenger behind the stimulatory and inhibitory responses observed to low intensity light exposures. It is hypothesized that other ionizing or non‐ionizing modalities can either directly or indirectly induce / or generate H2O2 in an aqueous environment and could also bring about similar stimulatory or inhibitory bio‐effects. One salient parameter which governs the bio‐response is the level of generated H2O2. The authors discuss the mechanism which enables a small amount of hydrogen peroxide generated by light to produce beneficial effects.
Hypomagnesemia and the risk of new-onset diabetes after liver transplantation
Authors: Van Laecke Steven , Desideri Federico , Geerts Anja , Van Vlierberghe Hans , Berrevoet Frederik , Rogiers Xavier , Troisi Roberto , de Hemptinne Bernard , Vanholder Raymond , Colle Isabelle
Published: October 2010

New-onset diabetes after transplantation (NODAT) is a frequent complication after liver transplantation and has a negative impact on both patient and graft survival. In analogy with the previous finding of an association between posttransplant hypomagnesemia and NODAT in renal transplant recipients, the relation between both pretransplant and posttransplant hypomagnesemia and NODAT was studied in liver transplant recipients (LTRs). One hundred sixty-nine adult LTRs (>18 years old) without diabetes who underwent transplantation between 2004 and 2009 were studied (mean age = 52.11 ± 12.6 years, proportion of LTRs who were male = 67.5%, body mass index = 25.5 ± 4.4 kg/m2, proportion receiving tacrolimus = 90.0%). NODAT was defined according to the American Diabetes Association criteria. The association of NODAT with both pretransplant and posttransplant serum magnesium (Mg) was examined. Overall, 52 of 169 patients (30.8%) developed NODAT, and 57.7% of these (30 patients) were treated with antidiabetic drugs. Both pretransplant Mg levels and Mg levels in the first month after transplantation were lower in patients developing NODAT (P = 0.008 and P = 0.001, respectively). A multivariate regression model (adjusted for weight, pretransplant glucose levels, hyperglycemia in the first week after transplantation, gender, hepatitis C, and corticosteroid dosing) demonstrated both pretransplant Mg levels (hazard ratio = 0.844 per 0.1 mg/dL increase, 95% confidence interval = 0.764-0.932, P = 0.001) and posttransplant Mg levels (hazard ratio = 0.659, 95% confidence interval = 0.518-0.838, P = 0.001) to be independent predictors of NODAT together with age, biopsy-proven acute rejection, and cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection in the first year after transplantation. In conclusion, pretransplant hypomagnesemia and early posttransplant hypomagnesemia are independent predictors of new-onset diabetes after liver transplantation. Other risk factors are age, biopsy-proven acute rejection, and CMV infection. Liver Transpl 16:1278-1287, 2010. © 2010 AASLD.
Neutrophil gelatinase—Associated lipocalin predicts acute kidney injury in patients undergoing liver transplantation
Authors: Portal Andrew J. , McPhail Mark J. W. , Bruce Matthew , Coltart Iona , Slack Andrew , Sherwood Roy , Heaton Nigel D. , Shawcross Debbie , Wendon Julia A. , Heneghan Michael A.
Published: October 2010

Postoperative acute kidney injury (AKI) increases morbidity and mortality after liver transplantation (LT). Novel methods of assessing AKI including cystatin C (CyC) and neutrophil gelatinase–associated lipocalin (NGAL) have been identified as potential markers of AKI. We compare the ability of standard renal markers (serum creatinine [sCr], estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] and intensive therapy unit organ failure scores with CyC and NGAL to predict AKI within the first 48 hours after LT. 95 patients (median age 50 [interquartile range = 41-59], 60% male) underwent LT (25% with acute liver failure). AKI was defined according to the Acute Kidney Injury Network criteria. Severe AKI was classified as ≥stage 2. NGAL (urine [u] and plasma [p]) and CyC concentrations taken immediately after transplantation on admission to the Liver Intensive Care Unit were compared with standard markers of renal function. Predictive ability was assessed using the area under the curve generated by receiver operator characteristic analysis (AUROC) and logistic regression. Day 0 sCr, uNGAL, pNGAL, CyC, and eGFR predicted AKI as did SOFA (Sequential Organ Failure Assessment) and APACHE II (Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II) scores. APACHE II and pNGAL were the most powerful predictors of severe AKI (APACHE II AUROC = 0.87 [0.77-0.97], P < 0.001; pNGAL AUROC = 0.87 [0.77-0.92], P < 0.001). Using multivariate logistic regression, APACHE II (odds ratio 1.64/point [95% confidence interval = 1.22-2.21, P = 0.001] and pNGAL [odds ratio = 1.01/ng/mL [95% confidence interval = 1.00-1.02], P = 0.002) retained independent significance. A “renal risk score” using APACHE II > 13 and pNGAL > 258 ng/mL was calculated with a score of ≥1 having a 100% sensitivity and 76% specificity for severe AKI. In conclusion, a combination of NGAL and APACHE II predicts AKI with high sensitivity and specificity after LT. Liver Transpl 16:1257-1266, 2010. © 2010 AASLD.
Moderate ascites identifies patients with low model for end-stage liver disease scores awaiting liver transplantation who have a high mortality risk
Authors: Somsouk Ma , Kornfield Rachel , Vittinghoff Eric , Inadomi John M. , Biggins Scott W.
Published: October 2010

Donor livers are offered to patients with the highest risk of death. How ascites could inform risk models to reduce liver transplant wait-list mortality is unclear. All adult candidates for primary liver transplantation for cirrhosis without exception points who were registered with the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network from 2005 to 2007 composed our study cohort. Using Cox models and advanced discriminative metrics and paying attention to geographic disparities, we evaluated the additional risk discrimination of moderate ascites over that of the Model for End-Stage Liver Disease (MELD) or the Model for End-Stage Liver Disease plus serum sodium (MELD-Na) alone for the prediction of 90-day wait-list mortality. Additional analyses examined lower mortality risk candidates and those listed in high-demand, low-supply United Network for Organ Sharing regions in which accounting for ascites may most significantly affect wait-list mortality. Between 2005 and 2007, 18,124 subjects were listed for liver transplantation. Mortality was higher in patients with moderate ascites (15.4% versus 6.0%, P < 0.0001), and this risk persisted despite adjustments for MELD (hazard ratio = 1.58, 95% confidence interval = 1.42-1.76) and MELD-Na (hazard ratio = 1.42, 95% confidence interval = 1.28-1.58). The effect of moderate ascites was more prominent with a MELD score <21 (equal to 4.7 MELD units) or with a MELD-Na score <21 (equal to 3.5 MELD-Na units). Wait-list mortality was higher in patients with moderate ascites who were listed in high-demand, limited-supply regions (25.8% versus 17.5% at 1 year, P < 0.01). With the addition of moderate ascites, there was improvement in the overall risk model, particularly with a MELD score <21, as measured by the C index and integrated discrimination improvement. Moderate ascites informed risk prediction, particularly with a MELD score <21 and in high-demand, limited-supply regions. Under the MELD system, the presence of moderate ascites should prompt clinicians to consider strategies to expand access to transplantation, such as the use of extended donor liver grafts. Liver Transpl 17:129–136, 2011. © 2011 AASLD.