bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing the Impact of Deficit Irrigation on Yield and Phenology of Bt Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.)
Authors: Annu  , M. N Harinarayanan. , Singh Karmal
Published: June 2024

Aims: To Evaluate the Impact of Different Irrigation Levels on Cotton Yield and Phenological Traits and To Determine the Optimal Fertigation Level for Cotton Cultivation.
Study Design:  Factorial Randomized Block Design.
Place and Duration of Study: Department of Agronomy, CCSHAU, Hisar, Haryana, India between June 2019 and July 2020.
Methodology: The experiment was set up in open fields with replicated plots to ensure the reliability of the results. The study included three irrigation levels: I1 (1.0 Etc), I2 (0.8 Etc), and I3 (0.6 Etc). Additionally, four fertigation levels were also tested: F1 (control), F2 (50% Recommended Dose of Fertilisers, RDF), F3 (75% RDF), and F4 (100% RDF). The factorial randomized block design with three replications was used to manage the plots. Key phenological traits, such as days to squaring, 50% flowering, 50% boll development, and maturity, were recorded. Yield components including seed cotton yield, number of bolls per plant, and individual boll weight were also measured. Bt cotton genotype RCH 776 was used for the study. All the agronomic practices were done as per the recommendations of CCSHAU. Statistical analysis was performed to determine the significance of differences between treatments.
Results: The results indicated that the highest irrigation level, I1 (1.0 Etc), led to prolonged phenological stages but achieved the highest seed cotton yield of 3854 kg/ha. In contrast, the lowest irrigation level, I3 (0.6 Etc), resulted in the lowest yield at 3327 kg/ha. Additionally, I1 outperformed I3 in terms of boll number and individual boll weight. Regarding fertigation treatments, F4 (100% RDF) produced the highest seed cotton yield (4404 kg/ha), boll weight (4.09 g), and number of bolls per plant (53/Plant). These findings suggest that both irrigation and fertigation significantly influence cotton yield and its components.
Conclusion: This study concluded that deficit irrigation, particularly at the I2 level (0.8 Etc), can optimize water use efficiency without significantly compromising yield. The highest fertigation level (F4) was found to produce the best yield outcomes. These optimized irrigation and fertigation practices are recommended for enhancing cotton production in arid regions like Haryana, with further validation needed to ensure their reliability and effectiveness in different environmental conditions.
Using a Genetic Algorithm to Determine the Best Factory Layout in Southern Iraq: Review
Authors: Mansour Mustafa M.
Published: June 2024

This paper describes the use of genetic algorithms (GA) in the field of layout. The plant layout problem (PLP) is a complex combinatorial optimization problem. The main objective of the PLP is to allocate the physical facilities of an entity into groups of departments within the smallest possible area. Since this type of problem is a classic NP-hard problem, the combinatorial optimization algorithm has been widely used to obtain a satisfactory solution. The subject therefore attracts the attention of researchers and industry. This paper has been applied to real case study data (Southern Cement Company in Iraq). A computer program coded in Visual Basic.NET has been developed to implement the developed GA algorithm. The layout obtained for the real case study plant, in this paper, gave an improvement by 0.019 points relative to the current layout that can be applied. The results also indicated the robustness and accuracy of the proposed GA algorithm. In addition, the proposed GA can be a good option in practical applications.
Nanomanufacturing with DNA Origami: Factors Affecting the Kinetics and Yield of Quantum Dot Binding
Authors: Ko Seung Hyeon , Gallatin Gregg M. , Liddle J. Alexander
Published: January 2012

Molecularly directed self‐assembly has the potential to become a nanomanufacturing technology if the critical factors governing the kinetics and yield of defect‐free self‐assembled structures can be understood and controlled. The kinetics of streptavidin‐functionalized quantum dots binding to biontinylated DNA origami are quantitatively evaluated and to what extent the reaction rate and binding efficiency are controlled by the valency of the binding location, the biotin linker length, and the organization, and spacing of the binding locations on the DNA is shown. Yield improvement is systematically determined as a function of the valency of the binding locations and as a function of the quantum dot spacing. In addition, the kinetic studies show that the binding rate increases with increasing linker length, but that the yield saturates at the same level for long incubation times. The forward and backward reaction rate coefficients are determined using a nonlinear least squares fit to the measured binding kinetics, providing considerable physical insight into the factors governing this type of self‐assembly process. It is found that the value of the dissociation constant, Kd, for the DNA–nanoparticle complex considered here is up to seven orders of magnitude larger than that of the native biotin–streptavidin complex. This difference is attributed to the combined effect that the much larger size of the DNA origami and the quantum dot have on the translational and rotational diffusion constants.
Predicting cross‐reactive immunological material (CRIM) status in Pompe disease using GAA mutations: Lessons learned from 10 years of clinical laboratory testing experience
Authors: Bali Deeksha S. , Goldstein Jennifer L. , Banugaria Suhrad , Dai Jian , Mackey Joanne , Rehder Catherine , Kishnani Priya S.
Published: January 2012

Enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) for Pompe disease using recombinant acid alpha‐glucosidase (rhGAA) has resulted in increased survival although the clinical response is variable. Cross‐reactive immunological material (CRIM)‐negative status has been recognized as a poor prognostic factor. CRIM‐negative patients make no GAA protein and develop sustained high antibody titers to ERT that render the treatment ineffective. Antibody titers are generally low for the majority of CRIM‐positive patients and there is typically a better clinical outcome. Because immunomodulation has been found to be most effective in CRIM‐negative patients prior to, or shortly after, initiation of ERT, knowledge of CRIM status is important before ERT is begun. We have analyzed 243 patients with infantile Pompe disease using a Western blot method for determining CRIM status and using cultured skin fibroblasts. Sixty‐one out of 243 (25.1%) patients tested from various ethnic backgrounds were found to be CRIM‐negative. We then correlated the CRIM results with GAA gene mutations where available (52 CRIM‐negative and 88 CRIM‐positive patients). We found that, in most cases, CRIM status can be predicted from GAA mutations, potentially circumventing the need for invasive skin biopsy and time wasted in culturing cells in the future. Continued studies in this area will help to increase the power of GAA gene mutations in predicting CRIM status as well as possibly identifying CRIM‐positive patients who are at risk for developing high antibody titers. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Infantile Pompe disease on ERT—Update on clinical presentation, musculoskeletal management, and exercise considerations
Authors: Case Laura E. , Beckemeyer Alexandra A. , Kishnani Priya S.
Published: January 2012

Enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) with alglucosidase alpha, approved by the FDA in 2006, has expanded possibilities for individuals with Pompe disease (glycogen storage disease type II, GSDII, or acid maltase deficiency). Children with infantile Pompe disease are surviving beyond infancy, some achieving independent walking and functional levels never before possible. Individuals with late‐onset Pompe disease are experiencing motor and respiratory improvement and/or stabilization with slower progression of impairments. A new phenotype is emerging for those with infantile Pompe disease treated with ERT. This new phenotype appears to be distinct from the late‐onset phenotype rather than a shift from infantile to late‐onset phenotype that might be expected from a simple diminution of symptoms with ERT. Questions arise regarding the etiology of the distinct distribution of weakness in this new phenotype, with increasing questions regarding exercise and musculoskeletal management. Answers require an increased understanding of the muscle pathology in Pompe disease, how that muscle pathology may be impacted by ERT, and the potential impact of, and need for, other clinical interventions. This article reviews the current state of knowledge regarding the pathology of muscle involvement in Pompe disease and the potential change in muscle pathology with ERT; the newly emerging musculoskeletal and gross motor phenotype of infantile Pompe disease treated with ERT; updated recommendations regarding musculoskeletal management in Pompe disease, particularly in children now surviving longer with residual weakness impacting development and integrity of the musculoskeletal system; and the potential impact and role of exercise in infantile Pompe survivors treated with ERT. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Toward deconstructing the phenotype of late‐onset Pompe disease
Authors: Schüller Angela , Wenninger Stephan , Strigl‐Pill Nicola , Schoser Benedikt
Published: January 2012

Pompe disease (glycogen storage disease type 2 or acid maltase deficiency) is a rare autosomal recessive lysosomal storage disorder. Since the advent of ERT a lot has been learned about the phenotypic spectrum especially in the late onset patients. We describe in detail 44 patients diagnosed with late‐onset Pompe disease (LOPD) at our neuromuscular department from 1985 to 2011 and compare them to patients with LOPD in the literature of the past 40 years. Study of the Munich LOPD group revealed varying musculoskeletal and cardio‐cerebrovascular manifestation patterns. Several of these symptom patterns commonly appeared in conjunction with one another, highlighting the multisystem involvement of this condition. Common symptom patterns include: (i) Classic limb girdle and diaphragmatic weakness, (ii) rigid spine syndrome (RSS), scoliosis, and low body mass, and (iii) several cardio‐cerebrovascular manifestation patterns. The most common presentation, limb girdle and diaphragmatic weakness, appeared in 78% (34/44) of our patients and over 80% of those in the literature. Sixteen percent (7/44) of our patients presented with rigid spine, scoliosis, and low body mass. Although scoliosis had a reported frequency of 33% in the general LOPD patient population, the literature only occasionally reported low body mass and RSS. Importantly, a multisystem extramuscular finding accompanied by cardio‐cerebrovascular manifestations was found in 29% (13/44) of our LOPD patients; the literature showed an increasing prevalence of this latter finding. By examining the phenotype of patients with confirmed LOPD, we found a more subtle clinical multisystem involvement in LOPD. Whether patients presenting with the different symptom patterns respond differently to enzyme replacement therapy remains a key question for future research. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Eustachian tube balloon dilation surgery
Authors: McCoul Edward D. , Anand Vijay K.
Published: January 2012

Background:

Eustachian tube dysfunction (ETD) is a common condition without an effective, accepted treatment. Balloon dilation Eustachian tuboplasty (BDET) has been recently proposed for the management of ETD. Previous studies of Eustachian tube function and treatment have not included a validated assessment of patient symptoms. We report for the first time the outcomes of BDET using a validated disease‐specific symptom score, the 7‐item Eustachian Tube Dysfunction Questionnaire (ETDQ‐7).

Methods:

Consecutive patients undergoing BDET were prospectively enrolled from an otolaryngology practice at a tertiary care medical center. Inclusion criteria were adults with a diagnosis of ETD based on symptoms and abnormal tympanogram. Patients with craniofacial abnormalities or active infection were excluded from study. Primary outcome measures included the ETDQ‐7 score, tympanometry, and otoscopic appearance. Secondary measures included the 22‐item Sinonasal Outcome Test (SNOT‐22) score.

Results:

Twenty‐two consecutive patients underwent 35 BDET procedures. Significant postoperative improvement was seen in tympanometry and otoscopic appearance (p < 0.001). ETDQ‐7 scores at 3 weeks, 6 weeks, 12 weeks, and 6 months postoperatively were significantly improved over baseline (p < 0.001). ETDQ‐7 scores showed fair correlation with SNOT‐22 scores (r > 0.65). ETDQ‐7 change scores demonstrated good responsiveness and sensitivity to clinical change following BDET.

Conclusion:

BDET is an effective surgical intervention for the treatment of ETD in adults. Postoperative improvements were observed using objective and subjective measures. The ETDQ‐7 is a valid, disease‐specific instrument for the assessment of treatment outcomes and may be applied for clinical use in patients with ETD. Further study is necessary to determine long‐term effectiveness. © 2011 ARS‐AAOA, LLC.
Bacterial microcolonies exist within the sphenoid bone in chronic rhinosinusitis and healthy controls
Authors: Wood Andrew James , Fraser John , Amirapu Satya , Douglas Richard George
Published: January 2012

Background:

Some patients with chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) exhibit thickening of the sinus bones that has been termed osteitis. The histopathology and microbiology of these changes have not been fully described. The aim of this study was to look for the presence of bacteria and immune cells within samples of bone from patients with and without CRS and correlate these findings to radiological findings.

Methods:

Bone on the anterior face of the sphenoid was examined radiologically and histologically in 8 patients with CRS with nasal polyposis, 8 patients with CRS without polyposis, and 6 control patients with pituitary adenomas and normal sinuses. Bone thickness and density were measured by computed tomography (CT) scanning. Bone samples were collected intraoperatively and 20 tissue sections were analyzed for each patient. Bacteria were identified by Giemsa and Gram stains. Immune cells were identified by conventional histology and immunohistochemistry.

Results:

Small colonies of bacteria were identified within the bone in 3 of 16 CRS patients and 2 of 6 control subjects (p = 0.6). Isolated immune cells were identified within the bone in 3 of 16 CRS patients and 2 of 6 control subjects (p = 0.6) but both bacteria and immune cells occurred together in only 1 case. The presence of bacteria or immune cells within bone samples did not correlate with either bone thickness or bone density.

Conclusion:

This study describes the presence of bacteria and immune cells within a minority of CRS patients and normal controls. The bacterial microcolonies identified do not appear to be the cause of the bone changes seen in many CRS patients. © 2012 ARS‐AAOA, LLC.
Synthesis and characterization of biodegradable polymers composed of 3,4‐dihydroxycinnamic acid and poly(ethylene glycol)
Authors: Dong Weifu , Xu Yapeng , Ren Jingjiao , Chu Hong , Li Jihang , Liu Xiaoya , Chen Mingqing
Published: January 2012

A novel series of biodegradable copolymers were synthesized by the thermal polycondensation of 3,4‐dihydroxycinnamic acid (DHCA) and poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG). The copolymers were characterized by 1H‐NMR, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and gel permeation chromatography. It was found that the incorporation of PEG reduced the glass‐transition temperature (Tg) of the copolymers, and Tg decreased with increasing amount of PEG in the compositions. The fluorescence spectroscopy revealed that the homopolymer and copolymers of DHCA gave a higher fluorescence emission intensity than that of DHCA monomer, of which the strongest fluorescence emission peak occurred in the copolymers containing a small amount of PEG. X‐ray diffraction spectra demonstrated that poly(3,4‐dihydroxycinnamic acid) and copolymer were amorphous; this indicated the facile biodegradability of the copolymers. Furthermore, copolymer micelles formed by self‐assembly were investigated. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Halloysite nanotubes as particulate emulsifier: Preparation of biocompatible drug‐carrying PLGA microspheres based on pickering emulsion
Authors: Wei Zengjiang , Wang Chaoyang , Liu Hao , Zou Shengwen , Tong Zhen
Published: January 2012

Halloysite nanotubes (HNTs)‐coated micrometer‐sized poly(lactic‐coglycolic acid) (PLGA) microparticles were fabricated via a combined system of “Pickering‐type” emulsion route and solvent volatilization method in the absence of any molecular surfactants. Stable oil‐in‐water emulsions were prepared using HNTs as a particulate emulsifier and a dichloromethane (CH2Cl2) solution of PLGA as an oil phase. The HNTs‐coated PLGA microparticles were fabricated by the evaporation of CH2Cl2 from the emulsion, and then bare‐PLGA microparticles were prepared by removal of the HNTs. SEM with energy dispersive analysis system (EDS) study confirmed adsorption of the HNTs only at the surface of the PLGA microparticles. After washing with acid aqueous solution, there is negligibly small amount of HNTs on the bare‐PLGA microparticles. Moreover, ibuprofen (IBU) as a drug model was loaded into the bare‐PLGA microparticles. And, the release curves were nicely fitted by the Weibull equation and the release followed Fickian diffusion. The combined system of Pickering emulsion and solvent volatilization opens up a new route to fabricate a variety of microparticles. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
The Effects of Rearing Light Level and Duration Differences on the Optic Nerve, Brain, and Associated Structures in Developing Zebrafish Larvae: A Light and Transmission Electron Microscope Study
Authors: Chapman George B. , Tarboush Rania , Connaughton Victoria P.
Published: January 2012

The ultrastructure of the optic nerve, brain, and some associated structures of larval zebrafish, grown under three different light regimens were studied. Fish grown under cyclic light (control), constant dark (CD), and constant light (CL) were studied for 4 and 8 days postfertilization (dpf). We also studied the control and CD fish at 15 dpf. The brains of the control and CL fish were larger at 4 dpf than at 8 dpf. In all 4 dpf fish, the brain occupied the entire expanse between the two retinas and the optic nerve extended the shortest distance between the retina and the brain. The 15 dpf zebrafish had the smallest brain size. Groups of skeletal muscle cells associated with the optic nerves became visible in all older larvae. In the 15 dpf larvae, bulges and dilations in the optic nerve occurred as it reached the brain and optic chiasms occurred proximal to the brain. Electron microscopy yielded information about myelinated and unmyelinated axons in the optic nerve, the dimensions of neurotubules, neurofilaments, and myofilaments, including a unique variation in actin myofilaments, and a confirmation of reported myosin myofilament changes (but with dimensions). We also describe the ultrastructure of a sheath‐like structure that is confluent over the optic nerve and the brain, which has not been described before in zebrafish. Also presented are images of associated fibroblasts, epithelial cells lining the mouth, cartilage plates, blood vessels, nerve bundles, and skeletal muscle cells, most of which have not been previously described in the literature. Anat Rec,, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Effect of stationary magnetic field strengths of 150 and 200 mT on reactive oxygen species production in soybean
Authors: Shine M.B. , Guruprasad K.N , Anand Anjali
Published: January 2012

Our previous investigation reported the beneficial effect of pre‐sowing magnetic treatment for improving germination parameters and biomass accumulation in soybean. In this study, soybean seeds treated with static magnetic fields of 150 and 200 mT for 1 h were evaluated for reactive oxygen species (ROS) and activity of antioxidant enzymes. Superoxide and hydroxyl radicals were measured in embryos and hypocotyls of germinating seeds by electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy and kinetics of superoxide production; hydrogen peroxide and antioxidant activities were estimated spectrophotometrically. Magnetic field treatment resulted in enhanced production of ROS mediated by cell wall peroxidase while ascorbic acid content, superoxide dismutase and ascorbate peroxidase activity decreased in the hypocotyl of germinating seeds. An increase in the cytosolic peroxidase activity indicated that this antioxidant enzyme had a vital role in scavenging the increased H2O2 produced in seedlings from the magnetically treated seeds. Hence, these studies contribute to our first report on the biochemical basis of enhanced germination and seedling growth in magnetically treated seeds of soybean in relation to increased production of ROS. Bioelectromagnetics 33:428–437, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Bacterial chemotaxis toward a NAPL source within a pore‐scale microfluidic chamber
Authors: Wang Xiaopu , Long Tao , Ford Roseanne M.
Published: January 2012

Chemotaxis toward chemical pollutants provides a mechanism for bacteria to migrate to locations of high contamination, which may improve the effectiveness of bioremediation. A microfluidic device was designed to mimic the dissolution of an organic‐phase contaminant from a single pore into a larger macropore representing a preferred pathway for microorganisms that are carried along by groundwater flow. The glass windows of the microfluidic device allowed direct image analysis of bacterial distributions within the vicinity of the organic contaminant. Concentrations of chemotactic bacteria P. putida F1 near the organic/aqueous interface were 25% greater than those of a nonchemotactic mutant in the vicinity of toluene for a fluid velocity of 0.5 m/d. For E. coli responding to phenol, the bacterial concentrations were 60% greater than the controls, also at a velocity of 0.5 m/d. Velocities in the macropore were varied over a range from 0.5 to 10 m/d, the lower end of which is typical of groundwater velocities. The accumulation of chemotactic bacteria near the NAPL chemoattractant source decreased as the fluid velocity increased. Good agreement between computer‐based simulations, generated using reasonable values of the model parameters, and the experimental data for P. putida strains confirmed the contribution due to chemotaxis. The experimental data for E. coli required a larger chemotactic sensitivity coefficient than that for P. putida, which was consistent with parameter values reported in the literature. Biotechnol. Bioeng. 2012; 109:1622–1628. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Synergistic effects of liposomes, trehalose, and hydroxyethyl starch for cryopreservation of human erythrocytes
Authors: Stoll Christoph , Holovati Jelena L. , Acker Jason P. , Wolkers Willem F.
Published: January 2012

Red blood cells (RBCs) can be cryopreserved using glycerol as a cryoprotective agent, but one of the main disadvantages is the time‐consuming deglycerolization step. Novel cryopreservation strategies for RBCs using nontoxic cryoprotective agents are urgently needed. The effect of DMPC, DOPC, and DPPC liposomes on survival of RBCs cryopreserved with trehalose and HES has been evaluated. DMPC caused hemolysis before freezing and affected RBC deformability parameters. DMPC treated RBCs displayed a strong increase in trehalose uptake compared to control cells, whereas DOPC treated liposomes only displayed a slight increase in trehalose uptake. High intracellular trehalose contents were observed after cryopreservation. The recovery of cells incubated with trehalose and liposomes, frozen in HES ranged between 92.6 and 97.4% immediately after freezing. Recovery values of RBCs frozen in HES, however, decreased to 66.5% after 96 h at 4°C compared to 77.5% for DOPC treated RBCs. The recovery of RBCs incubated and frozen in trehalose medium was 77.8%. After 96 hours post‐thaw storage recovery of these cells was 81.6%. DOPC and DPPC treated RBCs displayed higher recovery rates (up to 89.7%) after cryopreservation in trehalose compared to control RBCs. Highest survival rates were obtained using a combination of trehalose and HES: 97.8% directly after thawing and 81.8% 96‐h post‐thaw. DOPC liposomes, trehalose and HES protect RBCs during cryopreservation in a synergistic manner. The advantage is that the protective compounds do not need to be removed before transfusion. © 2012 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Biotechnol. Prog., 2012
Biologically Active Bergenin Derivatives from Bergenia stracheyi
Authors: Siddiq Farah , Fatima Itrat , Malik Abdul , Afza Nighat , Iqbal Lubna , Lateef Mehreen , Hameed Saira , Khan Sher Wali
Published: January 2012

New bergenin derivatives, bergecins A and B (1 and 2, resp.), have been isolated from the AcOEt‐soluble fraction of Bergenia stracheyi, along with bergenin (3), and their structures were elucidated on the basis of 1H‐ and 13C‐NMR spectra, and by COSY, HMQC, and HMBC experiments. Compound 2 showed potent inhibitory potential against the enzyme lipoxygenase, while 1 was moderately active. On the other hand, both compounds exhibited significant antioxidant activities in 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging assay.
Chemotaxonomy of Serbian Teucrium Species Inferred from Essential Oil Chemical Composition: the Case of Teucrium scordium L. ssp. scordioides
Authors: Radulović Niko , Dekić Milan , Joksović Milan , Vukićević Rastko
Published: January 2012

The volatile constituents of Teucrium scordium L. ssp. scordioides, T. polium, and T. montanum, obtained by hydrodistillation, were investigated by GC‐FID and GC/MS analyses. A total of 296 constituents were identified, representing 89.8–98.4% of the oil compositions. The oils of T. polium and T. montanum consisted mainly of sesquiterpenes (64.3 and 72.7%, resp.), with germacrene D (4; 31.0%) and δ‐cadinene (10; 8.1%) as the main constituents, respectively. In contrast, the monoterpene menthofuran (1; 11.9%) predominated in the oil of T. scordium ssp. scordioides, and this clearly distinguished this species from the other Teucrium taxa investigated up to date. The chemistry of the volatiles of eight Teucrium taxa from Serbia and Montenegro were compared using multivariate statistical analysis, and this provided chemotaxonomically important conclusions.
Insular thyroid cancer
Authors: Kazaure Hadiza S. , Roman Sanziana A. , Sosa Julie A.
Published: January 2012

BACKGROUND:

Insular thyroid cancer (ITC) is an uncommon, poorly differentiated thyroid malignancy. To date, there have been no population‐level studies of the characteristics and outcomes of patients with ITC.

METHODS:

The authors used the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database from 1999 to 2007 to compare the characteristics and prognosis of patients who had ITC with those of patients who had well differentiated thyroid cancer (WDTC) and anaplastic thyroid cancer (ATC). Data analyses were performed using chi‐square tests, analyses of variance, log‐rank tests, and multivariate regression.

RESULTS:

There were 114 patients with ITC, 497 patients with ATC, and 34,021 patients with WDTC. The mean age of patients with ITC was 62.1 years versus 48.1 years for patients with WDTC and 69.5 years for patients with ATC (P < .001). The mean ITC tumor size was 5.9 cm versus 2.0 cm for WDTC and 6.4 cm for ATC (P < .001). Distant metastasis occurred in 31% of patients with ITC versus 4.5% of patients with WDTC and 59.1% of patients with ATC (P < .001). Insular histology was associated independently with compromised survival in the overall study sample (hazard ratio [HR], 2.1; P = .001). The 5‐year disease‐specific survival rate was 72.6%, 97.2%, and 9.1% for patients with ITC, WDTC, and ATC, respectively (P < .001). After adjustment, radioiodine therapy (HR, 0.15; 95% confidence interval, 0.04‐0.5) and distant metastasis (HR, 15.3; 95% confidence interval, 3.7‐62.2) were associated independently with ITC survival. The mortality rate was 7.1%, 12%, and 54.3% for patients with localized, regional, and distant stage ITC, respectively (P < .001). For patients who had ITC with distant metastasis, thyroidectomy and radioiodine therapy independently improved survival.

CONCLUSIONS:

ITC is rare and aggressive. The current results indicated that its treatment should include total thyroidectomy and high‐dose radioiodine for all patients and neck dissections for patients with lymph node disease. Early diagnosis and close surveillance are essential in the management of patients with ITC. Cancer 2011. © 2011 American Cancer Society.
Phase 2 results from Radiation Therapy Oncology Group Study 0537
Authors: Wong Raimond K. W. , James Jennifer L. , Sagar Stephen , Wyatt Gwen , Nguyen‐Tân Phuc Felix , Singh Anurag K. , Lukaszczyk Barbara , Cardinale Francis , Yeh Alexander M. , Berk Lawrence
Published: January 2012

BACKGROUND:

In this phase 2 component of a multi‐institutional, phase 2/3, randomized trial, the authors assessed the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of acupuncture‐like transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (ALTENS) in reducing radiation‐induced xerostomia.

METHODS:

Patients with cancer of the head and neck who were 3 to 24 months from completing radiotherapy with or without chemotherapy (RT ± C) and who were experiencing xerostomia symptoms with basal whole saliva production ≥0.1 mL per minute and were without recurrence were eligible. Patients received twice weekly ALTENS sessions (24 sessions over 12 weeks) using a proprietary electrical stimulation unit. The primary study objective was to assess the feasibility of ALTENS treatment. Patients were considered compliant if 19 of 24 ALTENS sessions were delivered, and the targeted compliance rate was 85%. Secondary objectives measured treatment‐related toxicities and the effect of ALTENS on overall radiation‐induced xerostomia burden using the University of Michigan Xerostomia‐Related Quality of Life Scale (XeQOLS).

RESULTS:

Of 48 accrued patients, 47 were evaluable. The median age was 60 years, 84% of patients were men, 70% completed RT ± C for >12 months, and 21% had previously received pilocarpine. Thirty‐four patients completed all 24 ALTENS sessions, 9 patients completed 20 to 23 sessions, and 1 patient completed 19 sessions, representing a 94% total compliance rate. Six‐month XeQOLS scores were available for 35 patients and indicated that 30 patients (86%) achieved a positive treatment response with a mean ± standard deviation reduction of 35.9% ± 36.1%. Five patients developed grade 1 or 2 gastrointestinal toxicity, and 1 had a grade 1 pain event.

CONCLUSIONS:

The current results indicated that ALTENS treatment for radiation‐induced xerostomia can be delivered uniformly in a cooperative, multicenter setting and produces possible beneficial treatment response. Given these results, the phase 3 component of this study was initiated. Cancer 2012. © 2011 American Cancer Society.
Outcome for adolescent and young adult patients with osteosarcoma
Authors: Janeway Katherine A. , Barkauskas Donald A. , Krailo Mark D. , Meyers Paul A. , Schwartz Cindy L. , Ebb David H. , Seibel Nita L. , Grier Holcombe E. , Gorlick Richard , Marina Neyssa
Published: January 2012

BACKGROUND:

There are conflicting data regarding age as a prognostic factor in osteosarcoma. The authors conducted a study evaluating the impact of age on prognosis in children and young adults with osteosarcoma enrolled on North American cooperative group trials.

METHODS:

Patients with high‐grade osteosarcoma of any site enrolled on North American cooperative group trials CCG‐7943, POG‐9754, INT‐0133, and AOST0121 were included in this study. Primary tumor site, age, sex, ethnicity, histologic response, and presence of metastatic disease at diagnosis were evaluated for their impact on overall survival (OS) and event‐free survival (EFS).

RESULTS:

A total of 1054 patients were eligible and had complete data available for the study. Age was not significantly associated with any other presenting covariate analyzed except sex. Age 18 or older was associated with a statistically significant poorer EFS (P = .019) and OS (P = .043). The 10‐year EFS and OS in patients <10, 10 to 17, and ≥18 years old were 55%, 55%, 37% and 68%, 60%, 41%, respectively. The poorer EFS in patients ≥18 years old was because of an increased rate of relapse. Presence of metastatic disease at diagnosis, poor histologic response, and pelvic tumor site were also associated with a poorer prognosis. In multivariate analysis, age continued to be associated with poorer EFS (P = .019) and OS (P = .049).

CONCLUSIONS:

In osteosarcoma, age 18 to 30 years is associated with a statistically significant poorer outcome because of an increased rate of relapse. Poorer outcome in adolescent and young adult patients is not explained by tumor location, histologic response, or metastatic disease at presentation. Cancer 2012. © 2012 American Cancer Society.
Aberrant DNA methylation of tumor‐related genes in oral rinse
Authors: Nagata Satoshi , Hamada Tomofumi , Yamada Norishige , Yokoyama Seiya , Kitamoto Sho , Kanmura Yuji , Nomura Masahiro , Kamikawa Yoshiaki , Yonezawa Suguru , Sugihara Kazumasa
Published: January 2012

BACKGROUND:

The early detection of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is important, and a screening test with high sensitivity and specificity is urgently needed. Therefore, in this study, the authors investigated the methylation status of tumor‐related genes with the objective of establishing a noninvasive method for the detection of OSCC.

METHODS:

Oral rinse samples were obtained from 34 patients with OSCC and from 24 healthy individuals (controls). The methylation status of 13 genes was determined by using methylation‐specific polymerase chain reaction analysis and was quantified using a microchip electrophoresis system. Promoter methylation in each participant was screened by receiver operating characteristic analysis, and the utility of each gene's methylation status, alone and in combination with other genes, was evaluated as a tool for oral cancer detection.

RESULTS:

Eight of the 13 genes had significantly higher levels of DNA methylation in samples from patients with OSCC than in controls. The genes E‐cadherin (ECAD), transmembrane protein with epidermal growth factor‐like and 2 follistatin‐like domains 2 (TMEFF2), retinoic acid receptor beta (RARβ), and O‐6 methylguanine DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) had high sensitivity (>75%) and specificity for the detection of oral cancer. OSCC was detected with 100% sensitivity and 87.5% specificity using a combination of ECAD, TMEFF2, RARβ, and MGMT and with 97.1% sensitivity and 91.7% specificity using a combination of ECAD, TMEFF2, and MGMT.

CONCLUSIONS:

The aberrant methylation of a combination of marker genes present in oral rinse samples was used to detect OSCC with >90% sensitivity and specificity. The detection of methylated marker genes from oral rinse samples has great potential for the noninvasive detection of OSCC. Cancer 2012. © 2012 American Cancer Society.
A randomized study comparing yttrium‐90 ibritumomab tiuxetan (Zevalin) and high‐dose BEAM chemotherapy versus BEAM alone as the conditioning regimen before autologous stem cell transplantation in patients with aggressive lymphoma
Authors: Shimoni Avichai , Avivi Irit , Rowe Jacob M. , Yeshurun Moshe , Levi Itai , Or Reuven , Patachenko Paulina , Avigdor Abraham , Zwas Tzila , Nagler Arnon
Published: January 2012

BACKGROUND:

High‐dose chemotherapy combined with autologous stem‐cell transplantation (ASCT) is the standard therapy for refractory/relapsed aggressive lymphoma. In the era of rituximab‐containing frontline regimens, it is becoming more challenging to salvage patients in this setting, and novel approaches are required. This is a randomized study evaluating the safety and efficacy of standard‐dose ibritumomab tiuxetan (Zevalin) combined with high‐dose BEAM chemotherapy (Z‐BEAM) and ASCT in refractory/relapsed aggressive lymphoma.

METHODS:

Forty‐three patients with CD20+‐aggressive lymphoma were randomized to a treatment arm (Z‐BEAM, n = 22) or control arm (BEAM alone, n = 21). Ibritumomab tiuxetan was given at 0.4 mCi/kg on day −14 before ASCT.

RESULTS:

Patient characteristics, engraftment kinetics, and toxicity profile were similar between the 2 groups. Two‐year progression‐free survival (PFS) for all patients was 48% (95% confidence interval, 32%‐64%): 59% and 37% after Z‐BEAM and BEAM alone, respectively (P= .2). Multivariate analysis identified advanced age (hazard ratio [HR], 8.3;P= .001), high‐risk disease (relapse within 12 months of diagnosis and/or secondary International Prognostic Index >2; HR, 2.8;P= .04), positive positron emission tomography‐computed tomography pretransplant (HR, 2.4;P= .07), and BEAM alone (HR, 2.8;P= .03) as poor prognostic factors. Intermediate‐risk patients with 1 or 2 risk factors had better PFS with Z‐BEAM compared with BEAM: 69% and 29%, respectively (P= .07). Two‐year overall survival was 91% and 62% after Z‐BEAM and BEAM, respectively (P= .05). Similar prognostic factors determined survival. The HR for BEAM alone in the multivariate analysis was 8.1 (P= .01).

CONCLUSIONS:

Standard‐dose ibritumomab tiuxetan combined with BEAM high‐dose chemotherapy is safe and possibly more effective than BEAM alone as a conditioning regimen for ASCT in the era of rituximab‐containing chemotherapy regimens. Cancer 2012. © 2012 American Cancer Society.
A population‐based study of therapy and survival for patients with head and neck cancer treated in the community
Authors: Dansky Ullmann Claudio , Harlan Linda C. , Shavers Vickie L. , Stevens Jennifer L.
Published: January 2012

BACKGROUND:

The objective of this study was to examine patterns of care and survival in a population‐based sample of patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) who were treated in the community or in hospitals that had residency training programs.

METHODS:

Data from the National Cancer Institute's Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Program were used to sample 1317 patients aged ≥20 years with invasive squamous HNC who were diagnosed during 2004 and who had vital status available through 2008.

RESULTS:

Treatment and survival were influenced by tumor site and disease stage. Patients who had stage I/II cancer of the oral cavity generally underwent surgery; patients with stage III oral cavity disease underwent surgery and received radiation; and patients with stage IV oral cavity disease underwent surgery and received chemoradiation. Patients with early stage cancer of the oropharynx either underwent surgery or received radiation and chemotherapy, and patients with late/unstaged oropharyngeal disease primarily received radiation and chemotherapy. Patients with early stage cancer of the larynx mainly received radiation alone, and patients with late stage laryngeal disease generally received chemoradiation. Cisplatin‐based regimens were used most frequently. Overall, taxanes were used in 32% of regimens, and cetuximab was used in <3% of regimens. Patients aged ≥50 years, those with a Charlson comorbidity score ≥1, those with stage IV disease, and those with cancer located in the oral cavity or larynx had poorer survival. Although facilities with residency training programs treated more black patients and more patients with late stage disease, when adjusted for other factors, survival rates were similar to those reported in facilities with no such programs.

CONCLUSIONS:

Therapy generally followed accepted standards for 2004. Findings in particular tumor sites and stages may reflect the variability that still exists for the treatment of HNC. The use of taxanes and cetuximab is expected to increase based on new evidence of benefit. Reducing treatment‐related toxicities and long‐term functional deficits will be critical and especially important with the increase in human papillomavirus‐related cancers. In addition, further attempts to improve survival for older patients are needed. Cancer 2012. © 2012 American Cancer Society.
Predicting survival of patients with hypocellular myelodysplastic syndrome
Authors: Tong Wei‐Gang , Quintás‐Cardama Alfonso , Kadia Tapan , Borthakur Gautam , Jabbour Elias , Ravandi Farhad , Faderl Stefan , Wierda William , Pierce Sherry , Shan Jianqin , Bueso‐Ramos Carlos , Kantarjian Hagop , Garcia‐Manero Guillermo
Published: January 2012

BACKGROUND:

Although most patients with myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) exhibit bone marrow hypercellularity, a subset of them present with a hypocellular bone marrow. Specific factors associated with poor prognosis have not been investigated in patients with hypocellular MDS.

METHODS:

The authors studied a cohort of 253 patients with hypocellular MDS diagnosed at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center between 1993 and 2007 and a cohort of 1725 patients with hyper‐/normocellular MDS diagnosed during the same time period.

RESULTS:

Patients with hypocellular MDS presented more frequently with thrombocytopenia (P < .019), neutropenia (P < .001), low serum β‐2 microglobulin (P < .001), increased transfusion dependency (P < .001), and intermediate‐2/high‐risk disease (57% vs 42%, P = .02) compared with patients with hyper‐/normocellular MDS. However, no difference in overall survival was observed between the 2 groups (P = .28). Multivariate analysis identified poor performance status (Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group ≥2), low hemoglobin (<10 g/dL), unfavorable cytogenetics (−7/7q or complex), increased bone marrow blasts (≥5%), and high serum lactate dehydrogenase (>600 IU/L) as adverse independent factors for survival.

CONCLUSIONS:

A new prognostic model based on these factors was built that segregated patients into 3 distinct risk categories independent of International Prognostic Scoring System (IPSS) score. This model is independent from the IPSS, further refines IPSS‐based prognostication, and may be used to develop of risk‐adapted therapeutic approaches for patients with hypocellular MDS. Cancer 2012. © 2012 American Cancer Society.
Comparison of Low‐Frequency Spectra between Aromatic and Nonaromatic Cation Based Ionic Liquids Using Femtosecond Raman‐Induced Kerr Effect Spectroscopy
Authors: Shirota Hideaki
Published: January 2012

In this minireview, the features of low‐frequency spectra within the frequency range 0–200 cm−1 for aromatic and nonaromatic cation based ionic liquids obtained by femtosecond Raman‐induced Kerr effect spectroscopy are reviewed. For aromatic cation based ionic liquids, the aromatic group of the cations is largely responsible for the spectral line shape due to their larger polarizability anisotropy volume and more polarizable nature than nonaromatic cations. The low‐frequency Kerr spectra are also compared with the bulk properties of the ionic liquids. The differences in the relationship of the first moment of the low‐frequency spectrum band and the bulk properties between the aromatic and nonaromatic cation based ionic liquids with respect to the natures of constituent ions and microscopic aspects are discussed. For aromatic cation based ionic liquids, the ionic region is more pronounced than the nonpolar region in their low‐frequency Kerr spectra. In contrast, the ionic and nonpolar regions of nonaromatic cation based ionic liquids are likely to be captured due to the weaker signal of the cationic region. Also, the low‐frequency Kerr spectra of the nonaromatic analogues are influenced by their weaker segregation as compared to aromatic cation based ionic liquids.
Running throughout middle‐age improves memory function, hippocampal neurogenesis, and BDNF levels in female C57BL/6J mice
Authors: Marlatt Michael W. , Potter Michelle C. , Lucassen Paul J. , van Praag Henriette
Published: January 2012

Age‐related memory loss is considered to commence at middle‐age and coincides with reduced adult hippocampal neurogenesis and neurotrophin levels. Consistent physical activity at midlife may preserve brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels, new cell genesis, and learning. In the present study, 9‐month‐old female C57Bl/6J mice were housed with or without a running wheel and injected with bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) to label newborn cells. Morris water maze learning, open field activity and rotarod behavior were tested 1 and 6 months after exercise onset. Here we show that long‐term running improved retention of spatial memory and modestly enhanced rotarod performance at 15 months of age. Both hippocampal neurogenesis and mature BDNF peptide levels were elevated after long‐term running. Thus, regular exercise from the onset and during middle‐age may maintain brain function. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol 72: 943–952, 2012
Distribution of amphipods (Gammarus nipponensisUeno) among mountain headwater streams with different legacies of debris flow occurrence
Authors: Kobayashi Sohei , Gomi Takashi , Sidle Roy C. , Negishi Junjiro N.
Published: January 2012

To understand the impacts of debris flows on the distribution of an amphipod with limited dispersal ability in the context of stream networks, we surveyed the presence ofGammarus nipponensisin 87 headwater streams with different legacies of debris flow occurrence within an 8.5‐km2mountain catchment. The amphipod was present in only 7% of the streams impacted by debris flows after 1977; in contrast, it was present in 69% of the streams that had older or no debris flow occurrence. The absence of the amphipod in certain headwater streams did not appear to be related to water chemistry because pH and calcium concentrations differed little among streams within the catchment. In addition, survival rates of individuals incubated in streams with the amphipod present and absent did not differ significantly. Debris flows appeared to displace amphipod populations, and the absence of amphipods in streams for more than 30 years after debris flow occurrence suggests that considerable time is required for the recovery of populations. Because of geographic isolation from the source of colonists, headwater streams in the uppermost sections of the catchment and those indirectly connecting to the main stream via tributaries appear to be at greater disadvantage for receiving colonists from other areas and thus population recovery. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
From cryptic chromosomal lesions to pathologically relevant genes: Integration of SNP‐array with gene expression profiling in myelodysplastic syndrome with normal karyotype
Authors: Merkerova Michaela Dostalova , Bystricka Dagmar , Belickova Monika , Krejcik Zdenek , Zemanova Zuzana , Polak Jaroslav , Hajkova Hana , Brezinova Jana , Michalova Kyra , Cermak Jaroslav
Published: January 2012

Myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), a clonal disorder originating from hematopoietic stem cell, is characterized by a progressive character often leading to transformation to acute myeloid leukemia. We used single nucleotide polymorphism arrays (SNP‐A) to identify previously cryptic chromosomal abnormalities such as copy number alterations and uniparental disomies (UPD) in cytogenetically normal MDS. In the aberrant regions, we attempted to localize candidate genes with potential relevance to the disease. Using SNP‐A, we analyzed peripheral blood granulocytes from 37 MDS patients. The analysis identified 13 cryptic chromosomal defects in 10 patients (27%). Four UPD (affecting chromosomes 3q, 7q, 17q, and 20p), 5 deletions and 4 duplications were detected. Gene expression data measured on CD34+ cells were available for 4 patients with and 6 patients without SNP‐A lesions. We performed an integrative analysis of genotyping and gene expression microarrays and found several genes with an altered expression located in the aberrant regions. The expression microarrays suggested BMP2 and TRIB3 located in 20p UPD as potential candidate genes contributing to MDS. We showed that the genome‐wide integrative approach is beneficial to the comprehension of molecular backgrounds of diseases with incompletely understood etiopathology. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.