bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
HER2+ Breast Cancer Therapy: By CPP-ZFN Mediated Targeting of mTOR?
Authors: Puria Rekha , Sahi Shakti , Nain Vikrant
Published: January 2013

A significant fraction of HER2+ patients develop resistance to available therapies such as trastuzumab. The acquired resistance is primarily due to hyper activation of HER2 downstream PI3K/Akt/mTOR signalling pathway. Hence, identification of inhibitors of components of this pathway, particularly mTOR, is an area of intense investigation. Interestingly, mTOR specific inhibitors (rapamycin/rapalogs) have been tested and shown to potentiate the effect of HER2 inhibitors. However, the use of mTOR inhibitors will also be associated with the limitations inherently linked with extensive use of anticancer drugs e.g., toxicity and acquired drug resistance. Hereby, we hypothesize development of an alternative novel molecular therapeutic intervention based on cell penetrating peptide (CPP), a highly efficient carrier, conjugated to zinc finger nuclease (ZFN), a precise molecular scissor. The use of HER2 specific CPP conjugated to mTOR specific ZFN, will make the mTOR locus non-functional and inhibit the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway, essential for growth and proliferation of cancerous cells. With the availability of HER2+ cancerous cell specific CPP and proved applications of ZFN in targeted genome engineering of over 11 species, the prospects of success of CPP-ZFN anti-cancer therapy are very high.
CD4+ Tumor infiltrating lymphocytes are prognostic and independent of R‐IPI in patients with DLBCL receiving R‐CHOP chemo‐immunotherapy
Authors: Keane Colm , Gill Devinder , Vari Frank , Cross Donna , Griffiths Lynn , Gandhi Maher
Published: January 2013

Despite the Revised International Prognostic Index's (R‐IPI) undoubted utility in diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL), significant clinical heterogeneity within R‐IPI categories persists. Emerging evidence indicates that circulating host immunity is a robust and R‐IPI independent prognosticator, most likely reflecting the immune status of the intratumoral microenvironment. We hypothesized that direct quantification of immunity within lymphomatous tissue would better permit stratification within R‐IPI categories. We analyzed 122 newly diagnosed consecutive DLBCL patients treated with rituximab, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone (R‐CHOP) chemo‐immunotherapy. Median follow‐up was 4 years. As expected, the R‐IPI was a significant predictor of outcome with 5‐year overall survival (OS) 87% for very good, 87% for good, and 51% for poor‐risk R‐IPI scores (P < 0.001). Consistent with previous reports, systemic immunity also predicted outcome (86% OS for high lymphocyte to monocyte ratio [LMR], versus 63% with low LMR, P = 0.01). Multivariate analysis confirmed LMR as independently prognostic. Flow cytometry on fresh diagnostic lymphoma tissue, identified CD4+ T‐cell infiltration as the most significant predictor of outcome with ≥23% infiltration dividing the cohort into high and low risk groups with regard to event‐free survival (EFS, P = 0.007) and OS (P = 0.003). EFS and OS were independent of the R‐IPI and LMR. Importantly, within very good/good R‐IPI patients, CD4+ T‐cells still distinguished patients with different 5 year OS (high 96% versus low 63%, P = 0.02). These results illustrate the importance of circulating and local intratumoral immunity in DLBCL treated with R‐CHOP. Am. J. Hematol. 88:273–276, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Neuron‐oligodendrocyte myelination co‐culture derived from embryonic rat spinal cord and cerebral cortex
Authors: Pang Yi , Zheng Baoying , Kimberly Simpson L. , Cai Zhengwei , Rhodes Philip G. , Lin Rick C. S.
Published: January 2013

An in vitro myelination model derived from rat central nervous system (CNS) remains to be established. Here, we describe a simple and reproducible myelination culture method using dissociated neuron‐oligodendrocyte (OL) co‐cultures from either the embryonic day 16 (E16) rat spinal cord or cerebral cortex. The dissociated cells are plated directly on poly‐L‐lysine‐coated cover slips and maintained in a modified myelination medium that supports both OL and neuron differentiation. The spinal cord derived OL progenitor cells develop quickly into myelin basic protein (MBP)+ mature OLs and start to myelinate axons around 17 days in vitro (DIV17). Myelination reaches its peak around six weeks (DIV40) and the typical nodes of Ranvier are revealed by paranodal proteins Caspr and juxaparanodal protein Kv1.2 immunoreactivity. Electron microscopy (EM) shows typical myelination cytoarchitecture and synaptic organization. In contrast, the cortical‐derived co‐culture requires triiodothyronine (T3) in the culture medium for myelination. Finally, either hypomyelination and/or demyelination can be induced by exposing proinflammatory cytokines or demyelinating agents to the co‐culture, suggesting the feasibility of this modified in vitro myelination model for myelin‐deficit investigation.
Synergistic Catalysis over Bimetallic Alloy Nanoparticles
Authors: Singh Ashish Kumar , Xu Qiang
Published: January 2013

Bimetallic nanoparticles (NPs) have emerged as an important class of catalysts. In many cases, bimetallic alloy NPs have higher catalytic efficiencies than their monometallic counterparts, owing to strong synergy between the metals. In this Review, we survey the research progress on the synergistic effect of bimetallic alloy NPs for catalytic reactions related to fuel cells, such as the electrochemical oxidation of MeOH, EtOH, and formic acid, CO oxidation, the oxygen‐reduction reaction, and the dehydrogenation of ammonia borane, formic acid, hydrous hydrazine, hydrazine borane, etc. In addition, the use of synergistic catalysis in some other important reactions has also been reviewed. Recent developments in synergistic catalysis over bimetallic alloy NPs will provide access to a variety of low‐cost and high‐performance catalysts for laboratory and industrial applications within the next few years.
Chemical and (Photo)‐Catalytical Transformations in Photonic Crystal Fibers
Authors: Schmidt Matthias , Cubillas Ana M. , Taccardi Nicola , Euser Tijmen G. , Cremer Till , Maier Florian , Steinrück Hans‐Peter , Russell Philip St. J. , Wasserscheid Peter , Etzold Bastian J. M.
Published: January 2013

The concept of employing photonic crystal fibers for chemical and (photo)‐catalytical transformations is presented. These optofluidic microdevices represent a versatile platform where light and fluids can interact for spectroscopic or photoactivation purposes. The use of photonic crystal fibers in chemistry and sensing is reviewed and recent applications as catalytic microreactors are presented. Results on homogeneous catalysis and the immobilization of homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysts in the fiber channels are discussed. The examples demonstrate that combining catalysis and the excellent light guidance of photonic crystal fibers provides unique features for example, for photocatalytic activation and quantitative photospectroscopic reaction analysis.
Cleaved Iron Oxide Nanoparticles as T2 Contrast Agents for Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Jeon Sung Lan , Chae Min Kyung , Jang Eun Ju , Lee Chulhyun
Published: January 2013

Iron oxide nanoparticles as contrast agents are reported to effectively improve magnetic resonance imaging of tissues and cells. In this work, cleaved iron oxide nanoparticles (CIONPs) were generated from hydrophobic FeO nanoparticles (HIONPs) by coating their surfaces with PEG‐phospholipids, oxidizing them under water, and slowly removing the residual FeO phase in phthalate buffer. The synthesized CIONPs showed good r2 values of up to 258 s−1 mM−1. Thus, the CIONPs can be employed as vectors for drug delivery due to their unique structure with an empty inner space, which enables their use in a wide range of applications.
Ultra‐wideband SAW resonator composed of grooved Cu electrodes and its application to tunable filters
Authors: Kadota Michio , Kimura Tetsuya , Ida Yasuyuki
Published: January 2013

A cognitive radio system, which is being investigated in order to use limited frequency resources effectively, requires a tunable filter with a wide variable frequency range. A wideband resonator is required to realize a tunable filter. It was reported that a resonator composed of a Cu electrode/15° YX‐LiNbO3 had a large bandwidth of 12%. We attempted to fabricate a one‐port resonator composed of a grooved Cu electrode/4° YX‐LiNbO3. This resonator was applied to a tunable filter, and a tunable filter having a tunable range of 6.8% in the center frequency was experimentally realized using a bandpass‐type filter circuit, and one having a tunable range of 9 to 12% was theoretically realized using a ladder‐type filter circuit. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn, 96(2): 32–40, 2013; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/ecj.10408
Electromagnetically dual‐axis driven MEMS grating and its application to 3D profiling with near‐infrared low‐coherence interferometry
Authors: Watanabe Yoshiyuki , Takahashi Yoshiyuki , Abe Yutaka , Iwamatsu Shinnosuke , Yahagi Toru , Kobayashi Seiya , Konno Shunsuke , Sato Toshiyuki
Published: January 2013

We have investigated 3D profiling of the objects by a low‐coherence optical interferometer using MEMS grating. This system, constructed with optical fibers and MEMS devices, is a Fourier domain interferometer, which can discriminate distance to the object by wavelength analysis of the interference spectra. A MEMS mirror gives the object 2D optical scanning, and a MEMS grating permits spectroscopy of interference spectra. The MEMS grating can tilt to dual axis with electromagnetic force induced by planar coils and a permanent magnet. One axis tilting enables near‐infrared spectroscopy and another axis tilting functions as optical axis alignment in an interferometer. Fabricated MEMS grating could tilt ±3.5° (mech.)/less than ±10 mA in both directions at low frequency, which were equivalent to approximately 1400 to 1700 nm in wavelength. The interferometer, whose S/N was 50 dB and vertical standard deviation was 0.6 µm, could scan full wavelength width (1400 to 1700 nm) in 25 ms. Finally, we could realize 3D profiling which was not only surface reﬂection profiling of 1‐µm step, but also transparent profiling of IC process layer from the wafer backside. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn, 96(2): 9–15, 2013; Published online in Wiley Online Library (wileyonlinelibrary.com). DOI 10.1002/ecj.11452
Nanostructured Screen Printed Graphite Electrode for the Development of a Novel Electrochemical Genosensor
Authors: Ilkhani Hoda , Arvand Majid , Ganjali Mohammad Reza , Marrazza Giovanna , Mascini Marco
Published: January 2013

The aim of this work is the preparation of DNA‐sensing architectures based on gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) in conjunction with an enzyme‐amplified detection to improve the analytical properties of genosensor. In order to assess the utility of study as DNA‐sensing devices, a thiolated DNA capture probe sequence was immobilized on the gold nanoparticle modified surface. After labeling of the biotinylated hybrid with a streptavidin‐alkaline phosphatase conjugate, the electrochemical detection of the enzymatic product was performed on the surface of a disposable electrode. Two different enzymatic substrates to detect the hybridization event were studied. In the first case, the enzyme catalyzed the hydrolysis of α‐naphthyl phosphate; the product is electroactive and has been detected by means of differential pulse voltammetry (DPV). In the second one, the enzyme catalyzed the precipitation of an insoluble and insulating product on the sensing interface. In this case, the electrochemical transduction of the hybridization process was performed by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS).
Nonreciprocal chromosomal translocations in renal cancer involve multiple DSBs and NHEJ associated with breakpoint inversion but not necessarily with transcription
Authors: Ali Hanif , Daser Angelika , Dear Paul , Wood Henry , Rabbitts Pamela , Rabbitts Terence
Published: January 2013

Chromosomal translocations and other abnormalities are central to the initiation of cancer in all cell types. Understanding the mechanism is therefore important to evaluate the evolution of cancer from the cancer initiating events to overt disease. Recent work has concentrated on model systems to develop an understanding of the molecular mechanisms of translocations but naturally occurring events are more ideal case studies since biological selection is absent from model systems. In solid tumours, nonreciprocal translocations are most commonly found, and accordingly we have investigated the recurrent nonreciprocal t(3;5) chromosomal translocations in renal carcinoma to better understand the mechanism of these naturally occurring translocations in cancer. Unexpectedly, the junctions of these translocations can be associated with site‐specific, intrachromosomal inversion involving at least two double strand breaks (DSB) in cis and rejoining by nonhomologous end joining or micro‐homology end joining. However, these translocations are not necessarily associated with transcribed regions questioning accessibility per se in controlling these events. In addition, intrachromosomal deletions also occur. We conclude these naturally occurring, nonreciprocal t(3;5) chromosomal translocations occur after complex and multiple unresolved intrachromosomal DSBs leading to aberrant joining with concurrent interstitial inversion and that clonal selection of cells is the critical element in cancer development emerging from a plethora of DSBs that may not always be pathogenic. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Histone methyltransferase Suv39h1 deficiency prevents Myc‐induced chromosomal instability in murine myeloid leukemias
Authors: Vajen Beate , Modlich Ute , Schienke Andrea , Wolf Susanne , Skawran Britta , Hofmann Winfried , Büsche Guntram , Kreipe Hans , Baum Christopher , Santos‐Barriopedro Irene , Vaquero Alejandro , Schlegelberger Brigitte , Rudolph Cornelia
Published: January 2013

Suv39h1 mediates heterochromatin formation in pericentric and telomeric regions by trimethylation of lysine 9 of histone 3 (H3K9me3). Yet, its role in the induction of chromosomal instability is poorly understood. We established a leukemia model by retrovirally expressing Myc in wild‐type and histone methyltransferase Suv39h1‐deficient hematopoietic cells and characterized the resulting leukemias for chromosomal instability. All mice that received cells overexpressing Myc developed myeloid leukemia with a median survival of 44 days posttransplantation. Myc‐overexpressing wild‐type leukemias demonstrated clones with numerical chromosomal aberrations (5/16). In secondary transplantations of these leukemic cells, structural changes, mostly end‐to‐end fusions of chromosomes, appeared (10/12). In contrast, leukemic cells overexpressing Myc with reduced or no Suv39h1 expression had a normal karyotype in primary, secondary, and tertiary transplantations (16/16). Myc‐transduced Suv39h1‐deficient cells showed less critically short telomeres (P < 0.05) compared with Myc‐transduced wild‐type bone marrow cells. Gene expression analysis showed upregulation of genes involved in the alternative lengthening of telomeres (ALT) mechanism. Thus, we hypothesize that loss of Suv39h1 implies activation of the ALT mechanism, in turn ensuring telomere length and stability. Our data show for the first time that Suv39h1 deficiency may prevent chromosomal instability by more efficient telomere stabilization in hematopoietic bone marrow cells overexpressing Myc. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Targeting of the signal transducer Smo links microRNA‐326 to the oncogenic Hedgehog pathway in CD34+ CML stem/progenitor cells
Authors: Babashah Sadegh , Sadeghizadeh Majid , Hajifathali Abbas , Tavirani Mostafa Rezaei , Zomorod Mina Soufi , Ghadiani Mojtaba , Soleimani Masoud
Published: January 2013

Aberrant expression and function of microRNAs (miRNAs) in leukemia have added a new layer of complexity to the understanding of development and progression of the disease state. However, their targeting of specific signaling pathways responsible for the maintenance and survival properties of leukemic stem cell (LSC) still remains to be further clarified. Hedgehog (Hh) signaling, a highly conserved developmental pathway, has been proven as a functional pathway for LSCs, and loss of this pathway impairs the development of BCR‐ABL‐induced chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) and depletes CML stem cells. Here, we revealed that upregulation of the Hh smoothened (Smo) signal transducer was associated with reduced expression of miR‐326 in the CD34+ cells from a group of patients with CML at diagnosis. Additionally, overexpression of miR‐326 led to downregulation of Smo, resulted in decreased cell proliferation and elevated rate of apoptosis in CML CD34+ cells. Interestingly, restoration of Smo expression levels reversed the effect of miR‐326 and rescued K562 cells from the antiproliferative effects of this miRNA. Thus, Smo appears to be an essential target of miR‐326 during the pathogenesis of CML. These findings lead us to suggest that downregulation of miR‐326 may be a possible mechanism for unrestricted activation of Smo signal transducer of the oncogenic Hh pathway in CML; therefore, the restoration of miR‐326 expression could be of benefit in eradicating CD34+ CML stem/progenitor cells that represent a potential source of relapse in patients suffering CML.
ACR guidance document on MR safe practices: 2013
Authors:   Expert Panel on MR Safety:, Kanal Emanuel , Barkovich A. James , Bell Charlotte , Borgstede James P. , Bradley William G. , Froelich Jerry W. , Gimbel J. Rod , Gosbee John W. , Kuhni‐Kaminski Ellisa , Larson Paul A. , Lester James W. , Nyenhuis John , Schaefer Daniel Joe , Sebek Elizabeth A. , Weinreb Jeffrey , Wilkoff Bruce L. , Woods Terry O. , Lucey Leonard , Hernandez Dina
Published: January 2013

Because there are many potential risks in the MR environment and reports of adverse incidents involving patients, equipment and personnel, the need for a guidance document on MR safe practices emerged. Initially published in 2002, the ACR MR Safe Practices Guidelines established de facto industry standards for safe and responsible practices in clinical and research MR environments. As the MR industry changes the document is reviewed, modified and updated. The most recent version will reflect these changes. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2013;37:501–530. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Government Cloud Computing and National Data Sovereignty
Authors: Irion Kristina
Published: January 2013

Government cloud services are a new development at the intersection of electronic government and cloud computing which holds the promise of rendering government service delivery more effective and efficient. Cloud services are virtual, dynamic, and potentially stateless which has triggered governments' concern for data sovereignty. This article explores data sovereignty in relation to government cloud services and how national strategies and international policy evolve. It concludes that data sovereignty presents national governments with a legal risk that cannot be adequately addressed with technology or through contractual arrangements alone. Governments therefore adopt strategies that aim to retain sovereignty over government information.
Insiders and Outsiders: Presentation of Self on Canadian Parliamentary Websites and Newsletters
Authors: Koop Royce , Marland Alex
Published: January 2013

An ongoing theme in the study of elected representatives is how they present themselves to their constituents in order to enhance their re‐election prospects, but there are few examples of studies exploring how elected officials present themselves online. This paper addresses this gap by comparing presentation of self by Canadian Members of Parliament (MPs) on parliamentary websites and in the older medium of parliamentary newsletters. It follows Gulati (2004; The International Journal of Press/Politics 9: 22–40) in using nameplate images of MPs in Parliament and their constituencies as proxies for presentations of self as insiders and outsiders, respectively. Specifically, it asks (1) how MPs present themselves online, (2) whether this differs from presentation in newsletters, and (3) what factors explain presentation of self online. The paper finds that MPs are likely to present themselves as outsiders on their websites, that this differs from patterns observed in newsletters, and that party affiliation plays an important role in shaping self‐presentation online. The implications of these findings and avenues for future research are discussed.
Strategic, Structural, and Individual Determinants of Online Campaigning in German Elections
Authors: Metag Julia , Marcinkowski Frank
Published: January 2013

This article analyzes various strategic, structural, and individual factors that explain the use of online campaigning in Germany, comparing their relative importance as explanatory variables in national, state, and local elections. Based on candidate surveys of three German elections (at national, state, and local levels) in 2009 and 2010, the results show that strategic and structural variables, such as party membership or the perceived share of indecisive voters, do most to explain online campaigning. Internet‐related perceptions are explanatory in a few cases at the state and local levels; if candidates think that other candidates campaign online they feel obliged to use online media during the election campaign. However, genuine political predictors are still very significant at all federal levels.
Policy Story or Gory Story? Narrative Policy Framework Analysis of Buffalo Field Campaign's YouTube Videos
Authors: McBeth Mark K. , Shanahan Elizabeth A. , Arrandale Anderson Molly C. , Rose Barbara
Published: January 2013

Interest groups are increasingly turning to new media such as YouTube as vehicles for indirect lobbying. Such a visual medium provides unprecedented ability for interest groups to enter into and have influence on public policy debates through dissemination of policy preferences to wide audiences. While policy narratives are increasingly becoming the subject of policy research, no empirical research has examined whether interest groups' YouTube visual clips constitute policy narratives, with embedded narrative elements and strategies. To explore the intersection of policy narratives with new media, we use the Narrative Policy Framework (NPF) to analyze YouTube videos posted by the interest group Buffalo Field Campaign. Our results indicate that the group's videos were moderately strong in narrativity and that gory images were the most powerful predictor for public attention (measured by a rank order of views per month). The implications of our methodology and results for the empirical study of YouTube and its role in public policy are discussed.
CyClus: A fast, comprehensive cylindrical interface approximation clustering/reranking method for rigid‐body protein–protein docking decoys
Authors: Omori Satoshi , Kitao Akio
Published: January 2013

We propose a fast clustering and reranking method, CyClus, for protein–protein docking decoys. This method enables comprehensive clustering of whole decoys generated by rigid‐body docking using cylindrical approximation of the protein–proteininterface and hierarchical clustering procedures. We demonstrate the clustering and reranking of 54,000 decoy structures generated by ZDOCK for each complex within a few minutes. After parameter tuning for the test set in ZDOCK benchmark 2.0 with the ZDOCK and ZRANK scoring functions, blind tests for the incremental data in ZDOCK benchmark 3.0 and 4.0 were conducted. CyClus successfully generated smaller subsets of decoys containing near‐native decoys. For example, the number of decoys required to create subsets containing near‐native decoys with 80% probability was reduced from 22% to 50% of the number required in the original ZDOCK. Although specific ZDOCK and ZRANK results were demonstrated, the CyClus algorithm was designed to be more general and can be applied to a wide range of decoys and scoring functions by adjusting just two parameters,pandT. CyClus results were also compared to those from ClusPro. Proteins 2013; © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Management of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
Authors: Hayward David
Published: January 2013

ADHD can impact upon self‐esteem, academic achievement and employment opportunities. Here the author discusses the aetiology, when to refer and the management options.
Robust Parameter Design of an EDM Process
Authors: Al‐Ghamdi Khalid A.
Published: January 2013

The paper details a robust parameter design of an electrical discharge machining process. The influence of capacitance, pulse off‐time, pulse on‐time and pulse current on both the average and variability of surface roughness and material removal rate of a titanium alloy was investigated. The analysis revealed that to attain robustness against the impact of noise parameters, no capacitance should be applied. Furthermore, increasing pulse on‐time and its current increased the average of both the surface roughness and material removal rate. Two approaches were suggested to deal with the trade‐off between minimizing the former and maximizing the latter. The study confirmed empirically the inferiority of Taguchi's S/N ratios to a robust design method involving the use of log(s) together with a simple graphical tool for determining the appropriate data transformation called lambda plot. In fact, it was revealed that the employed S/N ratios were driven mainly by the average and involved unaided, unexplained and unjustified transformations. The log(s), on the other hand, provided an independent means of quantifying the variability and, when integrated with lambda plot, rendered not only a simplified analysis but also a better process understanding. The study is the first to report the use of this powerful approach in the context of electrical discharge machining parameter design. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The CXCL12/CXCR4/CXCR7 ligand‐receptor system regulates neuro‐glio‐vascular interactions and vessel growth during human brain development
Authors: Virgintino Daniela , Errede Mariella , Rizzi Marco , Girolamo Francesco , Strippoli Maurizio , Wälchli Thomas , Robertson David , Frei Karl , Roncali Luisa
Published: January 2013

This study investigates glio‐vascular interactions in human fetal brain at midgestation, specifically examining the expression and immunolocalization of the CXCL12/CXCR4/CXCR7 ligand‐receptor axis and its possible role in the vascular patterning of the developing brain. At midgestation, the telencephalic vesicles are characterized by well developed radial glia cells (RGCs), the first differentiated astrocytes and a basic vascular network mainly built of radial vessels. RGCs have been recognized to contribute to cerebral cortex neuro‐vascular architecture and have also been demonstrated to act as a significant source of neural cells (Rakic, Brain Res 33:471–476, 1971; Malatesta et al, Development 127:5253–5263, 2000). According to our hypothesis CXCL12, a potent migration and differentiation chemokine released by RGCs, may act as a linking factor coordinating neuroblast migration with vessel growth and patterning through the activation of different ligand/receptor axes. The obtained results support this hypothesis showing that together with CXCR4/CXCR7‐reactive neuroblasts, which migrate in close association with CXCL12 RGCs, layer‐specific subsets of CXCL12 RGCs and astrocytes specifically contact the microvessel wall. Moreover, the CXCL12/CXCR4/CXCR7 system appears to be directly involved in microvessel growth, its members being differentially expressed in angiogenically activated microvessels and vascular sprouts.
High risk of primary liver cancer in a cohort of 179 patients with Acute Hepatic Porphyria
Authors: Sardh Eliane , Wahlin Staffan , Björnstedt Mikael , Harper Pauline , Andersson Dan E. H.
Published: January 2013

Background/aims

Previous studies have indicated a high risk of hepatocellular carcinoma in acute hepatic porphyrias. In this retrospective study we present the incidence of primary liver cancer and clinical characteristics in a cohort of 179 acute porphyria patients above the age of 50 years.

Methods

Twenty‐three cases with primary liver cancer were found either by a surveillance program or due to clinical suspicion. Standardized rate ratio was used to estimate the relative risk of primary liver cancer after indirect standardization. Survival data were calculated using the Kaplan‐Meier method.

Results

The mean age at diagnosis was 69 years. Hepatocellular carcinoma was found in 19 patients while four patients had cholangiocarcinoma or a combination of the two. Four patients had underlying cirrhosis. Mean tumour size was 4.3 cm in the surveillance group and 10.3 cm in the non‐surveillance group (p = 0.01). The overall relative risk of primary liver cancer was 86 above the age of 50: 150 for women and 37 for men. Mean survival time was 5.7 years.

Conclusion

Acute hepatic porphyria carries a high risk of primary liver cancer above the age of 50 which warrants ultrasound surveillance. Sex distribution and frequency of cirrhosis differs from more common aetiologies of primary liver cancer.
Beyond Business Ethics: An Agenda for the Trustworthy Teachers and Practitioners of Business
Authors: Congleton Ann
Published: January 2013

Societies need markets, so just as trustworthy professionals are needed in fields such as healthcare, law and education, modern societies need trustworthy market managers, including corporate officers and directors. But in its screening of candidates, U.S. corporate business has lagged behind fields such as medicine and law, which in the nineteenth century addressed their need for screening by upgrading professional education and establishing licensing of individual practitioners. Corporate business, by contrast, has been too tolerant of problematic executives, particularly executives of a type shown by recent research in psychology to exhibit a set of personality traits including below average concern about bad effects of their actions on other people. Over-representation of this problematic type has cost corporate business the trust and respect it could earn by resting fully on a time-honored alternative foundation already espoused by many trustworthy teachers and practitioners of business. Society needs these trustworthy people of business to work together to establish screening of candidates for high level corporate positions by upgrading MBA education and establishing licensing for these positions. For reasons again based on current findings in psychology, screening candidates for the MBA could be significantly strengthened by requiring historical studies, particularly history of the corporate legal structure in the U.S. and history of the MBA itself. Upgrading the MBA and establishing correlated licensing could open the way toward corrections in the legal form of the corporation to bring it into line with hospitals, law courts and universities as places where responsible professionals pursue their callings on behalf of society.
Provision of Genetics Services on Guam
Authors: McWalter Kirsty , Hasegawa Lianne , Au Sylvia Mann
Published: January 2013

Guam's geographic isolation and lack of community resources have resulted in unique healthcare needs. In 2006, the Western States Genetic Services Collaborative (WSGSC) conducted a genetics needs assessment and found that professional development is limited, families lack access to genetic services, and improved coverage of genetic testing is needed. With funding from the WSGSC, a Guam genetics outreach clinic was established and staffed by genetic counselors and a medical geneticist from Hawaii. Four clinics have been held to date. Although several challenges have been encountered, including minimal coverage of genetic testing by Guam insurance companies, limited referrals for families with private insurance, and inappropriate referral indications, the outreach clinic has been successful at increasing access to genetic services and improving professional development. With more collaborative work by staff from Guam, Hawaii, and the WSGSC, provision and reimbursement of genetic services and testing will continue to improve.
A Mid-Term Analysis Suggests Ceramic on Ceramic Hip Arthroplasty is Durable with Minimal Wear and Low Risk of Squeak
Authors: Molloy Dennis , Jack Chris , Esposito Christina , Walter William L.
Published: January 2013

Background

The incidence of hip replacements in the younger patient is ever increasing. With this in mind, improving the longevity of hip arthroplasties is paramount. Alumina ceramic is a promising bearing surface due to its low wear rate and biological inertness.

Purpose

This study aims to review our experience with ceramic-on-ceramic total hip arthroplasty, reporting on the need for revision as well as the cause of failure. Our secondary purpose is to review our experience with the phenomenon of squeaking analysing and its effect on clinical outcome with specific emphasis on component positioning. Also reported are the results of our retrieval analysis of explanted components documenting the wear rate and our analysis of strip wear.

Methods

A consecutive series of 301 primary cementless alumina-on-alumina total hip arthroplasties at a minimum of 10 years follow-up was reviewed. These arthroplasties all had third-generation ceramic-on-ceramic bearings performed through a posterior approach with repair of capsule and external rotators to bone. We analysed hips both clinically and radiographically. Analysis of wear in 62 ceramic bearings was performed using a Roundtest RA300 machine (Mitutoyo; Andover, UK), which has an accuracy of 0.01 μm.

Results

Overall, the survival rate of the implants was 98% at 10 years. No ceramic fractures were encountered in this study. Seventy-four patients reported squeaking hips, and two cases were revised due to squeaking (0.6%). No failures were related to bearing wear.

Conclusions

We believe that ceramic-on-ceramic is a safe bearing coupling with excellent survivorship at 10 years.
Labral Resection or Preservation during FAI Treatment? A Systematic Review
Authors: Tibor Lisa M. , Leunig Michael
Published: January 2013

Background

Open and arthroscopic treatment of femoroacetabular impingement and resultant labral pathology has increased significantly over the past decade. Although the functional importance of the labrum and the labral seal has been established in biomechanical studies, good clinical results have been reported for both labral debridement and labral refixation.

Questions/Purposes

The purpose of this paper is to summarize existing literature on the surgical treatment of labral pathology to provide treatment recommendations and direct future research. A systematic review was performed with the following research question in mind: Does preservation of the hip labrum improve outcomes as compared to labral debridement for the treatment of labral pathology?

Methods

The MEDLINE database was searched for level I, II, or III articles in English or German comparing labral debridement to labral refixation. Five studies were included in the analysis.

Results

Good short-term results were reported for both groups. Three out of five papers report improved outcomes after labral refixation as compared to labral debridement.

Conclusions

In short-term follow-up, labral refixation appears to have slightly better outcomes than labral debridement. Studies with prospectively defined cohorts and longer follow-up are, however, necessary to provide definitive recommendations for labral treatment.
Is it Time for Cementless Hip Resurfacing?
Authors: Girard Julien
Published: January 2013

Background

Metal-on-metal bearing with cemented femoral component and cementless acetabular fixation is the current standard in surface replacement arthroplasty (RSA) of the hip. Because of concerns about the long-term survivorship of cemented stems in conventional hip arthroplasty, it seems logical to achieve cementless fixation on the femoral side with RSA.

Questions/Purposes

The goals of this review were to evaluate clinical and radiological data reported from previously published cementless RSA series. In addition, we intend to review author's preliminary experience with Conserve Plus cementless devices specifically assessing the clinical outcomes, the complications rate, the survivorship, and the metallic ions levels measured in follow-up.

Methods

A references search was done with PubMed using the key words “cementless hip resurfacing”, “cementless hip resurfacing prosthesis”, and “femoral cementless hip resurfacing”. Additionally, the clinical outcomes, the complications rate, the survivorship, and the metallic ions levels were measured in 94 cementless Conserve Plus© devices in 90 patients (68 males and 22 females) with a mean age of 41.1 years (18-59). Mean follow-up was 13.1 months (8-16).

Results

No revision was performed during the observed follow-up. Neither radiological signs of loosening nor neck narrowing >10% were evident. Chromium and cobalt levels in whole blood samples rose respectively from 0.53 μg/l (0.1-1.7) to 1.7 μg/l (0.6-2.9) and from 0.54 μg/l (0.1-1.4) to 1.98 μg/l (0.1-2.8).

Conclusions

Cementless “fit and fill” femoral-side fixation, which seems to be potentially evolved and design-related, should be considered for future hip-resurfacing device generations.
Predictors of Success of Corticosteroid Injection for the Management of Rotator Cuff Disease
Authors: Contreras Fernando , Brown Haydée C. , Marx Robert G.
Published: January 2013

Background

The use of subacromial corticosteroid injection (CSI) to treat rotator cuff tendinopathy is controversial. We hypothesized that characteristics such as activity level, American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, duration of symptoms, and status of the rotator cuff may be prognostic factors for resolution of symptoms postinjection.

Methods

During a 12-month period, consecutive patients with rotator cuff disease were analyzed. Patients received subacromial CSI, oral NSAIDs, and physical therapy. Baseline ASES score, simple shoulder test, an activity scale, and demographic data were recorded. Patients who remained symptomatic and were indicated for surgery were considered failures. Patients that did not undergo surgery were reassessed after a minimum of 1 year.

Results

Forty-nine patients met our criteria. Follow-up was obtained for 81.6%. Sixteen cases (40%) failed conservative treatment at final follow-up (22.4 ± 11 months). CSI were successful in 76.2% of males and 45% of females ( p = 0.04). Full-thickness tears were present in 8% of the patients with symptom resolution and 25% of those that failed conservative treatment ( p = 0.29). No significant difference was found in age, hand dominance, duration of symptoms, or any of the scoring systems.

Conclusion

It is difficult to predict outcomes after CSI. Our treatment strategy showed a 40% failure rate.
A Cohort Study Predicts Better Functional Outcomes and Equivalent Patient Satisfaction following UKR Compared with TKR
Authors: Matthews Douglas J. , Hossain Fahad Siddique , Patel Shelain , Haddad Fahad S.
Published: January 2013

Background

Total knee replacement (TKR) is considered the gold standard treatment for advanced osteoarthritis of the knee (Choong and Dowsey, Int J Rheum Dis 14:167–74, 2011 ; Satku, Singapore Med J 44:554–556, 2003 ). Unicompartmental disease can be treated with unicompartmental knee replacement (UKR) or TKR. Some surgeons prefer the proven track record of TKR, while others prefer the more normal joint kinematics, enhanced proprioception and range of movement achieved with UKR (Hopper and Leach, Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc 16:973–9, 2008 ; Satku, Singapore Med J 44:554–556, 2003 ). However, there is reported low satisfaction amongst younger patients undergoing UKR (Robertson et al., Acta Orthop Scand 71:262–7, 2000 ).

Questions/Purposes

The purpose of this study is to compare patient-reported outcomes, satisfaction and perception of knee normality in age-matched groups of postoperative TKR and UKR patients aiming to answer the following question: Does UKR have lower patient satisfaction than TKR in younger patients?

Methods

Sixty-eight patients were recruited from the care of a single surgeon. Patients with isolated medial compartment osteoarthritis, stable ACL and less than grade 3 lateral patellar disease underwent UKR. All other patients underwent TKR. Patients were assessed with validated knee scores. Satisfaction was assessed with a visual analogue scale.

Results

There was no statistical difference in patient satisfaction or perception of knee normality scores between the two groups, despite better functional scores including WOMAC, SF-36 and Oxford knee in the UKR group.

Conclusion

Patient satisfaction is similar amongst TKR and UKR patients despite better functional outcome in terms of recreation and sport with UKR. This may reflect higher preoperative expectations in patients undergoing UKR. Further work is needed to assess this.
Retracted: Synthesis and Inhibitory Activity of Schiff Base Surfactants Derived from Tannic Acid and Their Cobalt (II), Manganese (II) and Iron (III) Complexes Against Bacteria and Fungi
Authors: Negm Nabel A. , El Farargy Ahmed F. , Mohammad Islam A. , Zaki Mohamad F. , Khowdiary Manal M.
Published: January 2013

A series of tannic acid Schiff base surfactants and their iron, cobalt and manganese metal complexes were synthesized and their structures were elucidated by microelemental analysis, FTIR and 1H‐NMR data. The surface activities of the surfactants were increased by increasing the number of substituents, as represented from the surface tension measurements. The metal complexes showed higher critical micelle concentrations and surface tension reduction at critical micelle concentration. The antimicrobial activity in terms of inhibition zone diameter and minimum inhibitory concentrations showed increasing activity of the metal complexes over their parent compounds against Gram‐positive, Gram‐negative bacteria and fungi.
Outcomes of fertility‐sparing surgery for women of reproductive age with FIGO stage IC epithelial ovarian cancer
Authors: Kashima Katsunori , Yahata Tetsuro , Fujita Kazuyuki , Tanaka Kenichi
Published: January 2013

Objective

To report the clinical outcomes of patients with FIGO stage IC epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) treated by fertility‐sparing surgery (FSS).

Methods

A retrospective review was conducted of 18 women who underwent FSS at Niigata University Hospital, Japan, between December 15, 1986, and December 31, 2010.

Results

Tumors were mucinous (n = 9), clear cell (n = 4), endometrioid (n = 3), and serous (n = 2). Median follow‐up was 78.0 months (range, 9.3–181.3 months). Five patients (27.8%) developed tumor recurrence at 7.4–19.2 months after initial surgery. The sites of recurrence were peritoneal lymph nodes (n = 2), contralateral ovary (n = 1), contralateral ovary and peritoneal cavity (n = 1), and brain (n = 1). In all, 7 full‐term singleton pregnancies were recorded among 5 of the 10 women who attempted to conceive after FSS.

Conclusion

Favorable reproductive outcomes were observed following FSS, suggesting that this procedure may be a valid treatment option for women with FIGO stage IC EOC who wish to conceive.
Breakfast and exercise contingently affect postprandial metabolism and energy balance in physically active males
Authors: Gonzalez Javier T. , Veasey Rachel C. , Rumbold Penny L. S. , Stevenson Emma J.
Published: January 2013

The present study examined the impact of breakfast and exercise on postprandial metabolism, appetite and macronutrient balance. A sample of twelve (blood variables n 11) physically active males completed four trials in a randomised, crossover design comprising a continued overnight fast followed by: (1) rest without breakfast (FR); (2) exercise without breakfast (FE); (3) breakfast consumption (1859 kJ) followed by rest (BR); (4) breakfast consumption followed by exercise (BE). Exercise was continuous, moderate-intensity running (expending approximately 2·9 MJ of energy). The equivalent time was spent sitting during resting trials. A test drink (1500 kJ) was ingested on all trials followed 90 min later by an ad libitum lunch. The difference between the BR and FR trials in blood glucose time-averaged AUC following test drink consumption approached significance (BR: 4·33 (sem 0·14) v. FR: 4·75 (sem 0·16) mmol/l; P= 0·08); but it was not different between FR and FE (FE: 4·77 (sem 0·14) mmol/l; P= 0·65); and was greater in BE (BE: 4·97 (sem 0·13) mmol/l) v. BR (P= 0·012). Appetite following the test drink was reduced in BR v. FR (P= 0·006) and in BE v. FE (P= 0·029). Following lunch, the most positive energy balance was observed in BR and least positive in FE. Regardless of breakfast, acute exercise produced a less positive energy balance following ad libitum lunch consumption. Energy and fat balance is further reduced with breakfast omission. Breakfast improved the overall appetite responses to foods consumed later in the day, but abrogated the appetite-suppressive effect of exercise.
Polydextrose results in a dose-dependent reduction inad libitumenergy intake at a subsequent test meal
Authors: Astbury Nerys M. , Taylor Moira A. , Macdonald Ian A.
Published: January 2013

Previous studies have reported that polydextrose can reduce food intake; however, the optimal dose required to achieve this effect is currently unknown. The present study investigated the effects of consuming a range of doses of polydextrose on appetite and energy intake (EI) using a randomised within-subject, cross-over design. For this purpose, twenty-one participants (n12 men,n9 women) consumed an 837 kJ liquid preload containing 0 g (control), 6·3, 12·5 or 25 g polydextrose. Subjective appetite ratings were collected using visual analogue scales and anad libitumtest meal was served 90 min later. Participants recorded EI for the remainder of the day in a food diary. Test meal EI following the control preload (5756 (sem423) kJ) was significantly higher than following the 6·3 g (5048 (sem384) kJ), 12·5 g (4722 (sem384) kJ) and 25 g (4362 (sem316) kJ) preloads (P< 0·05), and EI following the 6·3 g preload was significantly higher than following the 25 g preload (P< 0·01). There were no differences in self-reported EI during the remainder of the day between the preloads containing the varying doses of polydextrose. Total EI (breakfast+preload+ad libitumtest meal+remainder of the day) was significantly higher when the control preload was consumed (12 051 (sem805) kJ) compared with either the 12·5 g (10 854 (sem589) kJ) or 25 g (10 658 (sem506) kJ) preload (P< 0·05). These differences in EI were not accompanied by corresponding differences in subjective appetite ratings. In summary, polydextrose effectively reduces subsequent EI in a dose-dependent manner.
Nonmonetary Benefits, Quality of Life, and Executive Compensation
Authors: Deng Xin , Gao Huasheng
Published: January 2013

We examine the effects of nonmonetary benefits on overall executive compensation from the perspective of the living environment at the firm headquarters. Companies in polluted, high crime rate, or otherwise unpleasant locations pay higher compensation to their chief executive officers (CEOs) than companies located in more livable locations. This premium in pay for quality of life is stronger when firms face tougher competition in the managerial labor market, when the CEO is hired from outside, and when the CEO has short-term career concerns. Overall, the geographic desirability of the corporate headquarters is an effective substitute for CEO monetary pay.