bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Up‐scaling potential impacts on water flows from agricultural water interventions: opportunities and trade‐offs in the Osman Sagar catchment, Musi sub‐basin, India
Authors: Garg Kaushal K. , Wani Suhas P. , Barron Jennie , Karlberg Louise , Rockstrom Johan
Published: August 2012

Agricultural water management (AWM) has been shown to improve and secure yields in the tropics and has been suggested as an important way to combat poverty in the region. In this paper, we describe potential impacts on upstream and downstream flows of extensive AWM interventions, using the watershed development programme of the Osman Sagar catchment of Musi sub‐basin, Andhra Pradesh semi‐arid India, as an example. Various AWM interventions are compared with a non‐intervention state and the current state of the study area, using 31 years of data by application of the calibrated and validated ARCSWAT 2005 (Version 2.1.4a) modelling tool. Different AWM interventions contribute to improved livelihoods of upstream smallholder farmers by increasing soil moisture availability and groundwater recharge, which can subsequently be used for irrigation. The result is higher crop production and hence larger incomes. Moreover, lower flow intensities and sediment losses reduced by 30–50%, reducing the risk of flooding and sediment accumulation in the Osman Sagar drinking water reservoir. On the other hand, AWM interventions are predicted to result in reduced total water inflows to the Osman Sagar reservoir from 11% of the total annual rainfall (754 mm) recorded at present, to 8% if AWM interventions were implemented at large scale throughout the catchment. A cost–benefit analysis of AWM interventions showed that the highest net economic returns were achieved at intermediate intervention levels (only in‐situ AWM). Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A field investigation of the sediment transport characteristics of a high sediment load intermittent river in Taiwan
Authors: Su Chih‐Chiang , Lu Jau‐Yau , Hong Jian‐Hao
Published: August 2012

Most rivers in Taiwan are intermittent rivers with relatively steep slopes and carry rapid sediment‐laden flows during typhoon or monsoon seasons. A series of field experiments was conducted to collect suspended load data at the Tzu‐Chiang Bridge hydrological station of the lower Cho‐Shui River, which is a major river with the highest sediment yield in Taiwan. The river reach was aggrading with a high aspect ratio during the 1980s. Because of sand mining and extreme floods, it was incised and has had a relatively narrow main channel in recent years. The experimental results indicated that typical sediment transport equations can correctly predict the bed material load for low or medium sediment transport rates (e.g. less than about 1000 tons/day‐m). However, these equations far underestimate the bed material load for high sediment transport rates. The effects of cross‐sectional geometry change (i.e. river incision) and earthquakes on the sediment load were investigated in this study. An empirical sediment transport equation with consideration of the aspect ratio was also derived using the field data collected before and after river incision. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Physical activity and risk of breast cancer overall and by hormone receptor status: The European prospective investigation into cancer and nutrition
Authors: Steindorf Karen , Ritte Rebecca , Eomois Piia‐Piret , Lukanova Annekatrin , Tjonneland Anne , Johnsen Nina Føns , Overvad Kim , Østergaard Jane Nautrup , Clavel‐Chapelon Françoise , Fournier Agnès , Dossus Laure , Teucher Birgit , Rohrmann Sabine , Boeing Heiner , Wientzek Angelika , Trichopoulou Antonia , Karapetyan Tina , Trichopoulos Dimitrios , Masala Giovanna , Berrino Franco , Mattiello Amalia , Tumino Rosario , Ricceri Fulvio , Quirós J.Ramón , Travier Noémie , Sánchez María‐José , Navarro Carmen , Ardanaz Eva , Amiano Pilar , Bueno‐de‐Mesquita H.B(as). , van Duijnhoven Franzel , Monninkhof Evelyn , May Anne M. , Khaw Kay‐Tee , Wareham Nick , Key Tim J. , Travis Ruth C. , Borch Kristin Benjaminsen , Sund Malin , Andersson Anne , Fedirko Veronika , Rinaldi Sabina , Romieu Isabelle , Wahrendorf Jürgen , Riboli Elio , Kaaks Rudolf
Published: August 2012

Physical activity is associated with reduced risks of invasive breast cancer. However, whether this holds true for breast cancer subtypes defined by the estrogen receptor (ER) and the progesterone receptor (PR) status is controversial. The study included 257,805 women from the multinational EPIC‐cohort study with detailed information on occupational, recreational and household physical activity and important cofactors assessed at baseline. During 11.6 years of median follow‐up, 8,034 incident invasive breast cancer cases were identified. Data on ER, PR and combined ER/PR expression were available for 6,007 (67.6%), 4,814 (54.2%) and 4,798 (53.9%) cases, respectively. Adjusted hazard ratios (HR) were estimated by proportional hazards models. Breast cancer risk was inversely associated with moderate and high levels of total physical activity (HR = 0.92, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.86–0.99, HR = 0.87, 95%‐CI: 0.79–0.97, respectively; p‐trend = 0.002), compared to the lowest quartile. Among women diagnosed with breast cancer after age 50, the largest risk reduction was found with highest activity (HR = 0.86, 95%‐CI: 0.77–0.97), whereas for cancers diagnosed before age 50 strongest associations were found for moderate total physical activity (HR = 0.78, 95%‐CI: 0.64–0.94). Analyses by hormone receptor status suggested differential associations for total physical activity (p‐heterogeneity = 0.04), with a somewhat stronger inverse relationship for ER+/PR+ breast tumors, primarily driven by PR+ tumors (p‐heterogeneity < 0.01). Household physical activity was inversely associated with ER–/PR– tumors. The results of this largest prospective study on the protective effects of physical activity indicate that moderate and high physical activity are associated with modest decreased breast cancer risk. Heterogeneities by receptor status indicate hormone‐related mechanisms.
High constant incidence of second primary colorectal cancer
Authors: Levi Fabio , Randimbison Lalao , Blanc‐Moya Rafael , Maspoli‐Conconi Manuela , Rosato Valentina , Bosetti Cristina , La Vecchia Carlo
Published: August 2012

Patients who had a colorectal cancer have a 1.5‐ to 2‐fold excess risk of a second colorectal cancer as compared to the general population, the excess being higher at younger age at diagnosis. To further investigate the risk and the age‐relation of the incidence of second primary colorectal cancer, we considered 9,389 first colon and rectal cancers registered in the Vaud Cancer Registry, Switzerland, between 1974 and 2008, and followed‐up to the end of 2008 for a total of 44,113 person‐years. There were 136 second colorectal cancers versus 90.5 expected, corresponding to a standardized incidence ratio (SIR) of 1.5 (95% confidence interval, CI, 1.3–1.8). The SIRs were not heterogeneous between men and women, and in strata of calendar year at diagnosis, duration of follow‐up, and subsite. However, the SIR was 7.5 (95% CI 4.2–12.4) for subjects diagnosed below age 50 and declined thereafter to reach 1.0 (95% CI 0.6–1.6) at age 80 or over. Consequently, the incidence of second primary colorectal cancer was stable, and exceedingly high, around 300–400/100,000 between age 30–39 and 70 or over. This age pattern is consistent with the existence of a single mutational event in a population of highly susceptible individuals.
On the Leptocytheridae Ostracods of the Long‐Lived Lake Ohrid: A Reappraisal of their Taxonomic Assignment and Biogeographic Origin
Authors: Namiotko Tadeusz , Danielopol Dan L. , Belmecheri Soumaya , Gross Martin , von Grafenstein Ulrich
Published: August 2012

Leptocythere karamani Klie, one of few non‐marine species of the family Leptocytheridae (Ostracoda), is redescribed from specimens recently collected from the long‐lived Lake Ohrid on the Albanian‐Macedonian border. Detailed morphologies of valves and limbs of this species were compared with those of other Ohrid‐Prespa leptocytherids, of some recent marine representatives of the genera Leptocythere Sars and Callistocythere Ruggieri from the Mediterranean, Irish and Baltic seas as well as with that of fossil non‐marine species from the Miocene palaeo‐Lake Pannon belonging to the genera Amnicythere Devoto and Euxinocythere Stancheva. Comparison with other species of Leptocytheridae inhabiting fresh to brackish waters of the Black‐Azov, Caspian and Aral seas were also carried out using descriptions provided in the literature. Based on the comparative morphological studies it is shown that L. karamani and other Ohrid leptocytherids have a number of characters distinguishing them from other members of the genus Leptocythere but demonstrating a relationship with species of the genus Amnicythere. The most reliable of these characters are: a) anterior valve vestibulum from where mostly uni‐ramified pore canals start, b) the entomodont hinge type with a strong anterior anti‐slip tooth, a smooth posterior anti‐slip bar on the left valve, and c) the hemipenis with underdeveloped lateral lobe and reduced clasping organ. From this strong evidence, the Ohrid leptocytherid species are allocated to the genus Amnicythere. Finally, a biogeographic scenario on the origin of the Ohrid leptocytherids is proposed which matches the “Lake Pannon derivate hypothesis”. Close relationship of the Ohrid Amnicythere species with the non‐marine leptocytherid taxa from the Neogene lakes of Central and Eastern Europe and with extant taxa from the Black and Caspian seas may indicate that the Ohrid Amnicythere derived from Lake Pannon species which were able to colonise lakes in Southern Europe through a stepping‐stone process and subsequently to adapt to freshwater environment. (© 2012 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
An approach for assessing hydrogel hydrophobicity
Authors: Munoz‐Pinto Dany J. , Grigoryan Bagrat , Long Jessica , Grunlan Melissa , Hahn Mariah S.
Published: August 2012

Hydrogel hydrophobicity is an important modulator of mammalian cell behavior, drug payload release, and medical device fouling. Contact angle and protein adsorption measures are two common methods for evaluating hydrogel hydrophobicity. However, protein adsorption is a complex phenomenon which is challenging to interpret in terms of gel hydrophobicity alone. In addition, the permeability of hydrogels can be problematic for contact angle assessment, as this method can only be strictly applied to smooth, solid, and nonpermeable surfaces. Therefore, the development of a technique for measuring hydrogel hydrophobicity which is simple, sensitive, and independent of variations in gel permeability would significantly advance the ability to finely tune this variable. The present technical note develops a method for quantifying the hydrophobicity of hydrogels by exploiting their capacity to swell differentially in solvents of distinct polarities. To validate this technique, hydrogels of varying hydrophobicities were prepared by combining hydrophilic poly(ethylene glycol) diacrylate (PEGDA) with either hydrophobic 3‐(trimethoxysilyl) propyl methacrylate (TMSPM) or hydrophilic 2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA). The ratio of hydrogel swelling in 70% isopropanol to that in water was termed the hydrophobicity index (H‐index) and was determined for each gel type. The measured H‐indices reflected known differences in the hydrophobicities of HEMA, TMSPM, and PEGDA and, in contrast to contact angle assessments, appeared to be independent of variations in hydrogel permeability. In addition, the trend in H‐indices agreed well with the trend in protein adsorption across hydrogel formulations, although the H‐indices appeared to be able to resolve more subtle differences in gel hydrophobicity than protein adsorption measures. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part A 100A:2855–2860, 2012.
Measuring Chinese Psychological Traits and Social Support With Western Developed Instruments in Psychological Autopsy Studies
Authors: Zhang Jie , Lamis Dorian A. , Yuanyuan Kong
Published: August 2012

Objective

Suicide is the fifth leading cause of death in China and the leading cause of death among adults aged 15 to 34 years. Thus, it is important to identify psychometrically sound instruments that can be successfully used to assess risk and protective factors for suicide in Chinese populations.

Method

Using the psychological autopsy method, we explored the possibility of applying 4 psychological scales (Dickman Impulsivity Instrument, State‐Trait Anxiety Inventory Form Y, Beck Hopelessness Scale, Duke Social Support Index) developed and commonly used in the West to Chinese culture. Sixteen counties from three provinces in China were selected as sampling sites in which 392 suicide cases and 416 community living controls aged 15 to 34 years were obtained.

Results

Significant differences were found between the suicide victims and living controls on all four measures and their respective subscales indicating that the instruments are useful tools in identifying suicidal individuals through proxy data in rural China.

Conclusions

These findings may have important implications for the development and enhancement of more effective suicide prevention strategies in China.
Ultrastructure of sensory equipments on the heads of Kallitaxila granulata (Stål) (Hemiptera: Fulgoromorpha: Tropiduchidae)
Authors: Wang Rong‐Rong , Wan Xin‐Yi , Liang Ai‐Ping , Bourgoin Thierry
Published: August 2012

The polyphagous planthopper, Kallitaxila granulata (Stål) (Hemiptera: Fulgoromorpha: Tropiduchidae), has been recently introduced into southeastern China, the Philippine islands, and Hawaii, where it has done significant damage to agricultural and forest ecosystems. The external morphology of the heads of adult male and female K. granulata was examined using scanning electron microscopy. Seven types of sensilla were reported: trichoid sensilla and campaniform sensilla on the antennal pedicel, antennal scape and maxilla; plate organs on the antennal pedicel; coeloconic sensilla in Bourgoin's organ on the expanded flagellar base; ampullaceal sensilla on the antennal pedicel; wavy‐pit sensilla on the antennal pedicel and antennal scape; and coin‐shaped sensilla on each lateral side of the labium. Evans' organ was described as placoid sensilla sunk into shallow cuticular cavities below the antennae. The external morphology, distribution, and abundance of sensilla located on antennae, maxillae, and labium in K. granulata were illustrated, with a brief discussion of their taxonomic, phylogenetic, and putative functional significance. Microsc. Res. Tech., 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Comparison of nerve growth factor receptor binding models using heterodimeric muteins
Authors: Mehta Hrishikesh M. , Woo Sang B. , Neet Kenneth E.
Published: August 2012

Nerve growth factor (NGF) is a homodimer that binds to two distinct receptor types, TrkA and p75, to support survival and differentiation of neurons. The high‐affinity binding on the cell surface is believed to involve a heteroreceptor complex, but its exact nature is unclear. We developed a heterodimer (heteromutein) of two NGF muteins that can bind p75 and TrkA on opposite sides of the heterodimer, but not two TrkA receptors. Previously described muteins are Δ9/13 that is TrkA negative and 7‐84‐103 that is signal selective through TrkA. The heteromutein (Htm1) was used to study the heteroreceptor complex formation and function, in the putative absence of NGF‐induced TrkA dimerization. Cellular binding assays indicated that Htm1 does not bind TrkA as efficiently as wild‐type (wt) NGF but has better affinity than either homodimeric mutein. Htm1, 7‐84‐103, and Δ9/13 were each able to compete for cold‐temperature, cold‐chase stable binding on PC12 cells, indicating that binding to p75 was required for a portion of this high‐affinity binding. Survival, neurite outgrowth, and MAPK signaling in PC12 cells also showed a reduced response for Htm1, compared with wtNGF, but was better than the parent muteins in the order wtNGF > Htm1 > 7‐84‐103 >> Δ9/13. Htm1 and 7‐84‐103 demonstrated similar levels of survival on cells expressing only TrkA. In the longstanding debate on the NGF receptor binding mechanism, our data support the ligand passing of NGF from p75 to TrkA involving a transient heteroreceptor complex of p75‐NGF‐TrkA. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Region‐specific expression of a water channel protein, aquaporin 4, on brain astrocytes
Authors: Aoyama M. , Kakita H. , Kato S. , Tomita M. , Asai K.
Published: August 2012

Cellular activities within the brain display regional specificity and a neuronal and glia interdependence. Components characterizing the regional specificity of neurons have been identified. However, characterization of the astrocyte remains in question. To identify region specific features of astrocytes, we have characterized the molecular phenotype of cells derived from regions with different levels of neuronal excitability, the cortex and striatum. Astrocytes were identified in cryostat sections of adult rat brain by rapid immunostaining for glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), and individual cells were collected from each region by using laser microdissection (LMD). Total RNA was isolated and subjected to DNA microarray analysis. At least eight genes showed a differential expression level. Among them, aquaporin 4 (AQP4), a water channel protein, was expressed at higher levels within the cortex compared with the striatum, as confirmed by immunohistochemistry. Primary cultured astrocytes isolated from rat cortex or striatum also showed a differential expression of AQP4. These data may reflect unique properties of astrocytes across different brain regions. However, they may also reflect the interactive demands of neurons with different activity levels. Further examination of the heterogeneous astrocyte populations within each region will lend additional support to the regional specificity of neuronal functions and neuronal–glial interactions. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Novel write‐erasable input display with memory circuits and photosensors
Authors: Maruyama Satoshi , Endo Takahiko , Harada Kenji , Hayashi Hirotaka , Mine Hideki , Kimura Hiroyuki , Kinoshita Masaki , Nakamura Hiroki
Published: August 2012

We have developed a new conceptual liquid crystal display (LCD) with a memory circuit and a photosensor in each pixel to realize excellent handwriting performance. Direct writing and erasing a character in the LCD are available because their direct processing only in the pixel are performed without calculating coordinates by using a light pen and integrated pixel circuits. In addition, this LCD enables to display still image data stored in the pixel memory circuit at a low liquid crystal (LC) driving frequency of 1.0 Hz. In the result, we have achieved faster handwriting response time of 0.5 ms and lower power consumption of 0.7 mW in 7.0‐in. QVGA reflective LCD panel.
Auto‐calibration of drive condition for cholesteric liquid crystal displays
Authors: Nose Masaki , Uehara Hirokata , Yoshihara Toshiaki
Published: August 2012

Dynamic drive scheme (DDS) is known widely as passive matrix addressing that obtains both high‐speed re‐writing and a high contrast ratio in the field of cholesteric liquid crystal displays (LCDs). However, DDS has a serious problem in that the proper drive condition is very narrow and it is largely influenced by individual differences in LCDs that arise during their production. We have developed a new auto‐calibration system that adjusts both the contrast ratio and color balance automatically using capacitances of effective pixels and temperature compensation models that utilize the physical properties of cholesteric LCDs. We have managed to optimize the driving conditions between 5 and 35 °C with this method, and obtained both stable and high‐quality color images where the reflectance is 36%, contrast ratio is 8, and NTSC ratio is 20%. This auto‐calibration system has been able to greatly improve the production yield of cholesteric LCDs and made it possible to make practical use of cholesteric LCDs.
Differences in viewing history affect discomfort associated with stereoscopic video
Authors: Toyosawa Satoshi , Kawai Takashi , Chen Chin‐Sen , Lin Ming‐Hui
Published: August 2012

The relationship between differences in individuals' past experience viewing stereoscopic images and their discomfort associated with 3D video was examined. In the current study, 21 subjects were categorized as either inexperienced or experienced viewers of stereoscopic images (12 and 9 subjects, respectively). Two commercially available 3D movies with different depth and motion characteristics were presented to the subjects under two different viewing conditions. Eye discomfort, fatigue in parts of the body, and mental workload were measured. We found that experienced viewers were affected more from moderate depth video with less motion, perhaps because of their higher degree of attention toward subtler depth detail. Experienced viewers reported more severe fatigue in the upper parts of their bodies, which could be attributed to their body adjustments effected in an effort to optimally receive depth information. Inexperienced viewers were affected more by images with more depth and motion, a result perhaps of their initial excitement to experience the new technology. It was shown that particularly depth‐emphasized segments demand higher mental workload from experienced viewers, but the effect is transient and not cumulative. It was found that differences between the two groups are exaggerated under the near viewing condition.
Impact of outcomes monitoring on innovation and risk in liver transplantation
Authors: Roberts John Paul
Published: August 2012

Key Points

1. The reporting of liver transplant center outcomes is required by the final rule of the Department of Health and Human Services. The reported patient and graft survival outcomes are risk-adjusted for specific donor and recipient factors, and the observed survival is compared to the expected survival. Both the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network flag programs for corrective action when the observed survival is significantly less than the expected survival. Both agencies can take action up to the closure of a center. In the last 5 years, the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network has not taken an adverse action that required the closure of a liver transplant center because of outcomes.

2. Center survey data suggest that centers may try to select donors and recipients to minimize poor outcomes. This strategy may not be effective if centers stop accepting donors or recipients according to factors that are included in the risk adjustment model. For example, limiting recipients to those less than 65 years old may improve the observed outcomes, but the expected outcomes will also improve because a recipient 65 years or older is included in the model's risk adjustment.

3. For factors such as cardiovascular risk that are not included in the model, it may be reasonable to exclude patients in an attempt to improve the observed outcomes without affecting the expected outcomes. Other examples of these types of factors are smoking, nutritional status, and donor liver biopsy findings.

4. Currently, there is no exemption for patients undergoing experimental protocols. Down-staging for hepatocellular carcinoma, transplantation for human immunodeficiency virus–positive recipients, and the use of left lobe grafts with inflow modification are relatively recent areas of innovation in liver transplantation. Because innovation is frequently associated with a learning curve and, therefore, poor outcomes, the inclusion of patients in innovative protocols potentially could lead to centers being subjected to an adverse action by the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network or the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Active consideration is being given to the exclusion of patients in innovative protocols from center-specific outcomes. Liver Transpl, 2012. © 2012 AASLD.
Cytomegalovirus infection: Its incidence and management in cytomegalovirus-seropositive living related liver transplant recipients: A single-center experience
Authors: Wadhawan Manav , Gupta Subash , Goyal Neerav , Vasudevan Karisangal R. , Makki Kausar , Dawar Reetika , Sardana Raman , Lal Nand , Kumar Ajay
Published: August 2012

It is believed that antiviral prophylaxis decreases the incidence of cytomegalovirus (CMV) reactivation and disease. There are few data regarding weekly assays for CMV DNA after transplantation and the subsequent management of CMV. Here we report a cohort of living related liver transplantation (LRLT) patients who were treated for invasive CMV disease or for CMV infections if they were receiving steroids for rejection. Patients who underwent liver transplantation at our center between September 2006 and August 2010 and were recipient-positive/donor-positive (R+/D+) were prospectively included. Patients were tested for CMV DNA 3 weeks after transplantation. CMV DNA–positive patients underwent weekly DNA monitoring until there were 2 consecutive negative reports. Those who developed CMV disease or had rising DNA titers while they were on treatment for rejection were treated. A Cox regression analysis was performed for factors predicting survival. Two hundred sixty-six of the 306 R+/D+ patients were CMV DNA–negative 3 weeks after transplantation, and 40 had detectable DNA. One of the DNA-negative patients developed CMV disease after treatment for rejection with methylprednisolone. Thirty patients had <500 copies/mL, and 10 had ≥500 copies/mL. Two of the 30 patients with DNA levels < 500 copies/mL developed CMV disease. Six of the 10 patients with DNA levels ≥500 copies/mL developed disease. CMV disease occurred in 9 of the 306 patients (2.9%). One patient received treatment for a rise in DNA titers while he was receiving steroids. There was a significant correlation between steroid administration for acute cellular rejection (ACR) and CMV reactivation (P = 0.003) and disease (P = 0.002). A multivariate analysis showed that CMV reactivation/disease did not predict survival. There was no difference in survival between CMV DNA–positive patients and CMV DNA–negative patients (P = 0.68). In conclusion, CMV reactivation is common after LRLT (13%), but the disease is rare (2.9%) without prophylaxis in CMV immunoglobulin G–positive recipients. The administration of steroids for ACR strongly correlates with CMV reactivation and disease. CMV reactivation and disease did not affect survival in our patient cohort. Liver Transpl, 2012. © 2012 AASLD.
Tender Offers versus Block Trades: Empirical Evidence
Authors: Holmén Martin , Nivorozhkin Eugene
Published: August 2012

In this paper, we test whether the determinants of block trade and non‐partial tender offer probabilities differ and whether the relative magnitude of security and private benefits can explain the choice of transfer mode. We investigate the Swedish market for corporate control. The results emphasize the importance of investigating block trades and tender offers as two competing events. The proxies for private benefits of control, small controlling voting blocks, and separation of voting rights from cash flow rights are positively related to the likelihood of a block trade but negatively related to the likelihood of a non‐partial tender offer. Our results suggest that separation of voting rights from cash flow rights might limit the efficiency of the market for corporate control. The prevalence of block trades in the presence of greater private benefits of control highlights the disadvantages of this control transfer mode in terms of incentive alignment between the buyer and the remaining dispersed shareholders. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Free flap reconstruction in patients with advanced oral squamous cell carcinoma: Analysis of patient survival and cancer recurrence
Authors: Hsieh Tung‐Ying , Chang Kao‐Ping , Lee Su‐Shin , Chang Chih‐Hau , Lai Ching‐Hung , Wu Yi‐Chia , Huang Shu‐Hung , Lai Chung‐Sheng , Lin Sin‐Daw
Published: August 2012

Background:

The purpose of this study was to compare the initial conditions and treatment outcomes of patients with advanced stage IV oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) treated with or without free flap reconstruction following ablative tumor resection.

Methods:

Two hundred forty‐two pathological stage IV OSCC patients (without distant metastasis) treated by tumor ablation with free flap reconstruction (Group 1; n = 93) or without free flap reconstruction (Group 2; n = 149 treated with split‐thickness skin grafts, primary closure of defects, secondary granulation of defects, and local or regional flaps) were recruited. We compared patient survival and cancer recurrence rates between these two groups.

Results:

Group 1 had significantly more advanced tumor stage than group 2. Despite the unfavorably expected prognosis in group 1, both positive margin rate (17.2% in Group 1 versus 23.5% in Group 2, P = 0.213) and cancer recurrence rate (36.6% in Group 1 versus 38.3% in Group 2; P = 0.792) were not significantly different between the two groups. The 5‐year disease‐specific survival were also the same (51.4% in Group 1 versus 52.6% in Group 2; P = 0.493).

Conclusions:

Although cancer stages were more advanced in patients requiring free flap reconstruction, patient survival, and cancer recurrence in the patients with free flap reconstruction were maintained as patients without free flap. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery, 2012.
Immediate nipple reconstruction utilizing the DIEP flap in areola‐sparing mastectomy
Authors: Craig E. Stirling , Walker Marc E. , Salomon Jeffrey , Fusi Stefano
Published: August 2012

The surgical treatment of breast cancer has dramatically evolved over the past decade toward an approach combining oncologic safety with aesthetic outcomes. The skin‐sparing mastectomy initiated this paradigm shift amongst breast surgeons and can be oncologically safe, in some cases sparing both the areola and the nipple. In accordance with the emphasis on aesthetics, some general surgeons have adopted new methods of resecting only the nipple, sparing the areola in select patients. The superior aesthetic results, durability, and decreased donor site morbidity of perforator flaps have brought autologous reconstruction back to the forefront of breast reconstruction with the deep inferior epigastric artery perforator (DIEP) flap as the gold standard. We describe a technique utilizing the DIEP flap skin paddle for immediate nipple reconstruction at the time of mastectomy and reconstruction, eliminating the need for delayed reconstruction and limiting donor site morbidity by concealing the donor site below the mastectomy skin flaps. In the six cases described performed between 2010 and 2012 (mean with 53 years; range 46–59 years), there have been no complications to the flap or the nipple postoperatively, nor has there been a need for further nipple revisions for 6 months. The nipple position relative to the flap breast mound has remained unchanged for up to 6 months. The immediate nipple reconstruction does not significantly lengthen operative time, requiring approximately 30 additional operative minutes per nipple. Immediate nipple reconstruction utilizing the DIEP flap can be a cost‐effective and feasible technique for recreating a natural‐appearing and aesthetic nipple in select patients. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery, 2013.
Antegrade and retrograde lymphatico‐venous anastomosis for cancer‐related lymphedema with lymphatic valve dysfuction and lymphatic varix
Authors: Mihara Makoto , Hara Hisako , Iida Takuya , Todokoro Takeshi , Yamamoto Takumi , Narushima Mitsunaga , Tashiro Kensuke , Murai Noriyuki , Koshima Isao
Published: August 2012

In healthy people, no retrograde lymph flow occurs because of valves in collecting lymph vessels. However, in secondary lymphedema after lymph node dissection, lymph retention and lymphatic hypertension occurs and valvular dysfunction induces retrograde lymph flow. In this case reported, we focused on retrograde lymph flow and performed retrograde lymphatico‐venous anastomosis (LVA) simultaneously with antegrade LVA. A 67‐year‐old Japanese woman had worsening edema in her right thigh and hip area for 3 years. She had previously undergone extended hysterectomy with lymph node dissection for endometrial cancer 8 years before. Indocyanine green test showed antegrade and retrograde lymph flow. Four LVAs were made in the right medial thigh and right lower abdominal area under local anesthesia. Lymphedema showed rapid improvement within 12 months and compression therapy was not required at 24 months after LVA. Retrograde LVA has a possibility of a more efficacy for secondary lymphedema. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery, 2012.
Transfer of a flexor digitorum superficialis motor branch for wrist extension reconstruction in C5–C8 root injuries of the brachial plexus: A case series
Authors: Bertelli Jayme Augusto , Ghizoni Marcos Flávio
Published: August 2012

In brachial plexus injuries, though nerve transfers and root grafts have improved the results for shoulder and elbow reconstruction, wrist extension has received little attention. We operated on three young patients with C5–C8 root injuries of the left brachial plexus, each operated upon within 6 months of trauma. For wrist extension reconstruction, we transferred a proximal branch of the flexor digitorum superficialis to the motor branch of the extensor carpi radialis brevis. Twenty‐four months after surgery, all patients recovered some degree of active wrist motion, from full flexion to near neutral. Independent control of finger flexion and wrist extension was not observed. In C5–C8 root injuries of the brachial plexus, transfer of a flexor digitorum superficialis motor branch to the extensor carpi radialis brevis produces limited recovery. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery, 2013.
Structure elucidation and NMR assignments of an unusual aromatic monacolin analog from Monascus purpureus‐fermented rice
Authors: Liu Ming‐Tao , Luan Na , Li Jin‐Jie , Huang Xiao , Wang Ye‐Feng , Wang A‐Li , Shang Xiao‐Ya
Published: August 2012

One unusual aromatic monacolin analog, aromonacolin A (1), was isolated from the ethanolic extract of Monascus purpureus‐fermented rice. Its structure was elucidated by extensive spectroscopic (HRESIMS, 1H NMR, 13C NMR, HSQC, HMBC, and NOESY) and chemical methods. The absolute configuration of the C‐6 secondary alcohol was deduced via the circular dichroism data of the in situ formed [Rh2(OCOCF3)4] complex.
Fluorine–proton correlation from isolated trifluoromethyl groups using unresolved J‐couplings
Authors: Howe Peter W. A.
Published: August 2012

Fluorine‐containing compounds are rare in biological systems, so fluorine NMR spectroscopy can selectively detect and quantify fluorinated xenobiotics in crude biological extracts. The high sensitivity of fluorine NMR allows the detection of compounds containing isolated trifluoromethyl groups at nanogramme levels. However, it only provides limited structural information about trifluoromethyl‐containing compounds owing to the difficulty of interpreting fluorine chemical shifts and the low sensitivity of HOESY experiments used to correlate fluorine nuclei with protons in the same compound. This paper demonstrates that long‐range fluorine–proton J‐couplings can be used to correlate isolated trifluoromethyl groups with nearby protons with significantly higher sensitivity than HOESY. Fluorine‐observe fluorine–proton HMQC can even give correlations when the fluorine–proton J‐couplings are less than the observed fluorine resonance linewidth, so it provides a useful alternative source of structural information about fluorinated xenobiotics. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Unsupported advance length in tunnels constructed using New Austrian Tunnelling Method and ground surface settlement
Authors: Nemati Hayati Ali , Ahmadi Mohammad Mehdi , Hajjar Mahdi , Kashighandi Aliakbar
Published: August 2012

Tunnels constructed using New Austrian Tunnelling Method (NATM) are always based on certain round (unsupported) advance lengths, after which, the temporary lining is placed. The settlement of the ground surface resulting from such construction is of high significance in design and practice. The existing data in this respect, however, is scarce. It is the aim of this paper to propose a semi‐analytical procedure based on three‐dimensional finite element analyses to predict the maximum surface settlement of the ground in NATM tunnels under different combinations of tunnel diameter, overburden depth, round length and soil and lining properties. The comparison of the results with three case histories of real tunnels reveals reasonable accuracy of the present solution. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
CD133 as a biomarker for putative cancer stem cells in solid tumours: limitations, problems and challenges
Authors: Grosse‐Gehling Philipp , Fargeas Christine A , Dittfeld Claudia , Garbe Yvette , Alison Malcolm R , Corbeil Denis , Kunz‐Schughart Leoni A
Published: August 2012

The cancer stem cell (CSC) hypothesis, despite the limitations of the currently available models and assays, has ushered in a new era of excitement in cancer research. The development of novel strategies for anti‐tumour therapy relies on the use of biomarkers to identify, enrich, and/or isolate the cell population(s) of interest. In this context, various cell characteristics and antigen expression profiles are discussed as surrogate markers. The cell surface expression of the human prominin‐1 (CD133) antigen, in particular of the AC133 epitope, is among those that have been most frequently studied in solid cancers, although no mechanism has yet been proposed to link CD133 expression with the CSC phenotype. Some inconsistencies between published data can be ascribed to different analytical tools as well as methodological limitations and pitfalls, highlighted in the present review. Therefore, a comprehensive overview on the current state of knowledge in this growing and exciting field with an emphasis on the most recent studies is presented. We highlight the link between the tumour microenvironment, tumour cell plasticity, and CD133 expression, and evaluate the utility of CD133 expression as a prognostic marker. Copyright © 2012 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Fetal tissue Doppler imaging in pregnancies complicated with preeclampsia with or without intrauterine growth restriction
Authors: Zhou Qiongjie , Ren Yunyun , Yan Yingliu , Chu Chen , Gui Yonghao , Li Xiaotian
Published: August 2012

Objectives

This study's aim was to evaluate the effect of preeclampsia and intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) on fetal cardiac function, and the relationship of the latter with adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Material and methods

We did a cross‐sectional study of 132 women with uncomplicated singleton pregnancies, 34 with preeclampsia without IUGR, and 12 with preeclampsia and IUGR. Fetal cardiac structure and function were evaluated using fetal two‐dimension ultrasound, pulsed wave Doppler and tissue Doppler imaging (TDI). Data were analyzed by t‐tests, ANOVA, Chi‐square tests, or Wilcoxon rank‐sum test.

Results

Compared with the normal pregnancy group, mitral/tricuspid early systolic peak velocity of annulus/late diastolic peak velocity of annulus (Sa) and left ventricular (LV)/right ventricular (RV) early diastolic peak velocity at the annulus (Ea) in TDI decreased in preeclampsia with or without IUGR (P < 0.05). LV/RV Ea underwent a gestational decrease in preeclampsia with or without IUGR (P < 0.05). The changes in mitral/tricuspid Sa and LV Sa associated with preeclampsia were even more pronounced with preterm delivery at less than 34 gestational weeks and stillbirth (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Intrauterine growth restriction influences fetal cardiac function in the presence of preeclampsia, and TDI may be a sensitive and preferable method to detect such changes. Fetal LV/RV Ea is a potential marker for early fetal cardiac diastolic impairment, and mitral/tricuspid Sa and LV Sa may be predictors for adverse pregnancy outcomes. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prognosis and outcome of pregnancies exposed to renin–angiotensin system blockers
Authors: Spaggiari Emmanuel , Heidet Laurence , Grange Gilles , Guimiot Fabien , Dreux Sophie , Delezoide Anne‐Lise ,   Renin–Angiotensin System Blockers Study Group, Muller Françoise
Published: August 2012

Objective

To study pregnancy outcomes and fetal renal prognosis markers in cases of exposure to renin–angiotensin system blockers.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study of a series of 21 patients exposed to blockers of the renin–angiotensin system during pregnancy. Two markers were prenatally studied, fetal serum β2‐microglobulin and amniotic fluid volume. Poor renal prognosis evaluation was based on postnatal glomerular filtration rate or on the presence of renal histologic lesions.

Results

Of the 21 fetuses, only one had a normal postnatal renal function at birth (oligohydramnios regression and normal β2‐microglobulin). All fetuses with persistent oligohydramnios or β2‐microglobulin ≥5 mg/L presented an adverse renal outcome.

Conclusion

Exposure to renin–angiotensin system blockers complicated by oligohydramnios is associated with a very poor outcome. We propose a prenatal management based on amniotic fluid volume monitoring and fetal serum β2‐microglobulin. However, our preliminary results have to be confirmed by a larger study. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Integrated and first trimester prenatal screening in California: program implementation and patient choice for follow‐up services
Authors: Currier Robert , Wu Nerissa , Van Meter Karla , Goldman Sara , Lorey Fred , Flessel Monica
Published: August 2012

Objectives

The California Prenatal Screening Program serves over 350 000 women annually. This study examines utilization rates for the various screening options and patient choices regarding follow‐up services.

Methods

The study tracked patients with first trimester positive results for Down syndrome to examine patient decisions regarding follow‐up services and/or additional screening and to identify determinants of patient decisions. For first trimester screen positive women who elected further screening, second trimester integrated screening results were analyzed. The Genetic Disease Screening Program Chromosome Registry was used to identify Down syndrome cases.

Results

Ethnicity, but not age, was a strong predictor of acceptance of prenatal diagnosis. Approximately 47% of first trimester screen positive women opted for further screening. Among these women, 46% percent received an integrated screen negative result. All but one confirmed Down syndrome case in this cohort were still screen positive.

Conclusions

Data from the California Prenatal Screening Program indicate that all of the major screening modalities continue to be utilized. The wide range of choices made by women with screen positive results demonstrate the importance of including multiple options within the Program. Providing integrated screening to first trimester Down syndrome screen positive women reduced the number of unnecessary invasive procedures. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Fetal forearm anomalies: prenatal diagnosis, associations and management strategy
Authors: Pajkrt Eva , Cicero Simona , Griffin David R. , van Maarle M. C. , Chitty Lyn S.
Published: August 2012

Objective

To determine the underlying associations in fetuses with forearm anomalies, and to derive a management strategy to improve prenatal diagnosis and parental counselling.

Methods

A retrospective review of fetal medicine unit records to identify all cases with an absent, short or abnormal radius and/or ulna. Cases with a generalised skeletal dysplasia were excluded. Fetal medicine, maternal, neonatal and, where appropriate, histopathological reports, were reviewed.

Results

Sixty‐six cases were identified. Two were lost to follow‐up and subsequently omitted. Chromosomal anomalies accounted for 19 cases (29.7%), genetic syndromes for 19 (29.7%) and isolated forearm defects for 15 cases (23%). A definitive postnatal diagnosis was made in 54 cases (84%). In 45 of the 64 (70%) cases, a correct prenatal diagnosis was made. Cases with bilateral lesions had a significantly higher association with aneuploidy and genetic syndromes, while those with a sonographically isolated unilateral forearm defect had a very low incidence of other underlying pathology.

Conclusion

Fetuses with bilateral forearm defects or those with unilateral lesions and other abnormalities detected prenatally have a high incidence of aneuploidy and genetic syndromes. Isolated, unilateral lesions usually have a good prognosis. A management strategy is presented to aid accurate prenatal diagnosis and parental counselling. © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A numerical computation and experimental study of air drawing model of polymers in spunbonding nonwoven process
Authors: Bo Zhao
Published: August 2012

The air drawing model of polyethylene terephthalate polymer and the model of the air jet flow field in spunbonding process are established. The air jet flow field model is simulated with the help of the finite difference method. The numerical simulation computation results of distributions of the air velocity and air temperature are in agreement with the experimental data. The air drawing model of polymer is solved with the aid of the distributions of the air velocity measured by a particle image velocimetry. The predicted fiber diameters tally with the experimental data well. It can be concluded that the higher initial air temperature can generate finer filament fiber diameter, and the higher initial air velocity can yield the finer fiber diameter as well. The experimental results show that the agreement between the predicted results and the experimental data is very good, which confirms the reliability and the accuracy of these mathematical models. Also, they reveal great prospects for this work in the field of computer assisted design of spunbonding process. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2013. ©2012 Society of Plastics Engineers
Poly‐left‐lactic acid tubular scaffolds via diffusion induced phase separation: Control of morphology
Authors: Pavia Francesco Carfì , La Carrubba Vincenzo , Ghersi Giulio , Brucato Valerio
Published: August 2012

In this work, tubular poly‐left‐lactic acid scaffolds for vascular tissue engineering applications were produced by an innovative two‐step method. The scaffolds were obtained by performing a dip‐coating around a nylon fiber, followed by a diffusion induced phase separation process. Morphological analysis revealed that the internal lumen of the as‐obtained scaffold is equal to the diameter of the fiber utilized; the internal surface is homogeneous with micropores 1–2 μm large. Moreover, a porous open structure was detected across the thickness of the walls of the scaffold. An accurate analysis of the preparation process revealed that it is possible to tune up the morphology of the scaffold (wall thickness, porosity, and average pore dimension), simply by varying some experimental parameters. Preliminary in vitro cell culture tests were carried out inside the scaffold. The results showed that cells are able to grow within the internal surface of the scaffolds and after 3 weeks they begin to form a “primordial” vessel‐like structure. Modeling predictions of the dip‐coating process display always an underestimate of experimental data (dependence of wall thickness upon extraction rate). POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2013. © 2012 Society of Plastics Engineers