bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sinonasal quality‐of‐life before and after endoscopic, endonasal, minimally invasive pituitary surgery
Authors: Suberman Thomas A. , Zanation Adam M. , Ewend Matthew G. , Senior Brent A. , Ebert Charles S.
Published: April 2011

Background:

Endoscopic, endonasal, minimally invasive pituitary surgery (MIPS) has proven to be safe and efficacious. However, there are few data that assess the health‐related or sinonasal‐specific quality‐of‐life (QoL) of those undergoing MIPS. Our hypothesis is that patients undergoing MIPS do not have significantly different sinus disability or change in QoL after surgery compared to prior to surgery.

Methods:

This is a retrospective review of patients undergoing MIPS between 2002 and 2009. Rhinosinusitis Disability Index (RSDI) scores, patient demographics, tumor characteristics, surgical outcomes, and intraoperative/postoperative complications were recorded. Preoperative and postoperative mean RSDI scores and the mean absolute change in RSDI were calculated with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). One‐way analysis of variance (ANOVA) compared RSDI scores between different tumor subgroups.

Results:

A total of 50 patients completed the RSDI preoperatively and postoperatively. Analyses revealed no significant difference between preoperative and postoperative scores across all domains (p = 0.84). When the cohort was stratified into functional vs nonfunctional tumor types there was no significant difference between the 2 groups (p = 0.88). Data showed no statistically significant change in RSDI scores postoperatively in all groups.

Conclusion:

These data show that MIPS with appropriate postoperative care results in little or no long‐term sinonasal quality of life defects. © 2011 ARS‐AAOA, LLC.
The effect of social network sites on adolescents' social and academic development: Current theories and controversies
Authors: Ahn June
Published: April 2011

Teenagers are among the most prolific users of social network sites (SNS). Emerging studies find that youth spend a considerable portion of their daily life interacting through social media. Subsequently, questions and controversies emerge about the effects SNS have on adolescent development. This review outlines the theoretical frameworks researchers have used to understand adolescents and SNS. It brings together work from disparate fields that examine the relationship between SNS and social capital, privacy, youth safety, psychological well‐being, and educational achievement. These research strands speak to high‐profile concerns and controversies that surround youth participation in these online communities, and offer ripe areas for future research.
Web‐based 3D medical image visualization framework for biomedical engineering education
Authors: Settapat Sittapong , Achalakul Tiranee , Ohkura Michiko
Published: April 2011

Medical imaging is one of the major fields in the multi‐disciplinary curriculum of biomedical engineering (BME). Biomedical engineers from different backgrounds need to understand biology in order to be able to develop effective equipment to improve healthcare diagnosis through medical images. Visualization tools are important in the learning process to improve biomedical engineer's understanding of medical imagery. In this work, we design a web‐based 3D medical image visualization framework that can be used to improve medical image understanding in biology and anatomy. Our proposed framework provides not only 3D visualization, but also 3D reconstruction for medical images. This paper describes the design framework and the technology integration, as well as the implementation details. The developed system has been used as an educational tool prototype in a BME department. In order to evaluate the tool's usability, we tested it with BME students as well as doctors. We compared a conventional 2D visualization application and our proposed method with regard to system efficiency and user satisfaction. The 3D system generally demonstrated better performance and a higher level of satisfaction. The students were able to use our 3D tool to study 2D images effectively without prior background knowledge in anatomy. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Comput Appl Eng Educ 22:216–226, 2014; View this article online atwileyonlinelibrary.com/journal/cae; DOI10.1002/cae.20548
Is balloon aortic valvuloplasty safe in patients with significant aortic valve regurgitation?
Authors: Saia Francesco , Marrozzini Cinzia , Ciuca Cristina , Bordoni Barbara , Dall'Ara Gianni , Moretti Carolina , Taglieri Nevio , Palmerini Tullio , Branzi Angelo , Marzocchi Antonio
Published: April 2011

Objectives: To assess safety and effectiveness of balloon aortic valvuloplasty (BAV) in patients with symptomatic severe aortic stenosis (AS) and significant aortic regurgitation.

Background: BAV is a palliative procedure that has possibly been underused in patients with symptomatic AS not suitable for surgical aortic valve replacement or transcatheter aortic valve implantation. Significant aortic regurgitation is commonly perceived as a contraindication to BAV.

Methods: Among 416 consecutive patients undergoing BAV at our Institution, 73 patients showed moderate or severe AR before the procedure. Demographics and baseline characteristics, as well as in‐hospital clinical outcome, have been prospectively collected in a dedicated database. Transthoracic echocardiography was regularly performed in all patients undergoing BAV before the procedure and at hospital discharge.

Results: Patients had a high‐risk profile, confirmed by advanced age (77.2 ± 11.8 years) and important comorbidity (logistic Euroscore 26.5 ± 16.3%). Advanced heart failure was present in 73.9%. Indication to BAV was cardiogenic shock in 9.6%, palliation in 31.5%, bridge in 58.9% of the patients. BAV was performed with standard retrograde approach. Aortic valve area increased from 0.62 ± 0.15 cm2 at baseline to 0.83 ± 0.17 cm2 before discharge (P < 0.001). The degree of AR was improved or unchanged in 65 patients (89%). In‐hospital mortality was 6.9%, mainly limited to terminal patients. Symptomatic status at discharge was improved in all surviving patients. Acute AR occurred in seven patients; in five of them it was successfully resolved in the catheterization laboratory.

Conclusions: When clinically indicated, BAV can be safely performed in patients with combined aortic stenosis and significant aortic regurgitation. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Percutaneous pulmonary valve implantation in the native right ventricular outflow tract
Authors: Thanopoulos Basil (Vasilios) , Giannakoulas George , Arampatzis Chourmouzios A.
Published: April 2011

Percutaneous pulmonary valve implantation into dysfunctional right ventricular (RV) to pulmonary artery conduits is being increasingly performed in many European and North American centers with satisfactory results and low‐complication rates. We report the first application of this elaborate technique in the native RV outflow tract of a young patient who developed severe supravalvular pulmonary stenosis following an arterial switch operation for transposition of the great arteries. The procedure may be used as an alternative to surgical repair for the treatment of selected patients with supravalvular pulmonary stenosis complicating congenital heart surgery. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Angina pectoris in a patient with protein C deficiency and deep vein thrombosis: Thrombus versus myxoma?
Authors: Kshatriya Shilpa , Villarreal Daniel , Liu Kan
Published: April 2011

A 55‐year‐old Caucasian man with history of hypertension, diabetes mellitus, protein C deficiency, and deep vein thrombosis presented with typical angina. Both computed tomography and transesophageal echocardiography identified a mobile mass in left atrium but could not differentiate between thrombus and myxoma. A cardiac catheterization with coronary angiography demonstrated tumor neovascularization, suggestive of myxoma. Pathology examination after mass resection confirmed the diagnosis. Patients with myxoma could present with obstructive, embolic, or constitutional symptoms. However, typical angina has never been reported as the primary manifestation. Although being helpful, various noninvasive imaging modalities, including magnetic resonance image, often have limitations to help making a definitive diagnosis, before surgery decision, especially under hypercoagulable condition. In contrast, cardiac catheterization can help not only in differentiation diagnosis but also in detecting possible intracoronary embolization from myxoma. In patients with myxoma complicated with hypercoagulable disorders, anticoagulation will play essential role in long‐term care. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A novel way to reduce thrombus build‐up in vena cava filters
Authors: Chen Zengsheng , Zhan Fan , Fan Yubo , Deng Xiaoyan
Published: April 2011

Objectives and background: The build‐up of thromboses in vena cava filters after deployment presents serious problem to the patients. We proposed a novel way to overcome this problem in a belief that intentionally induced swirling flow can optimize blood flow patterns in Vena cava filters, enhance the stirring motion of flow, in turn accelerate the dissolution of blood clots captured in the filter and facilitate blood to flow pass through the filters. Methods: In this study, we experimentally compared the work efficiency of a vena cava filter under swirling flow condition with that of the same filter under normal flow condition. Results: The results show that when compared to the normal flow, the swirling flow indeed has a significantly beneficial effect on a VCF which can decrease its flow‐out time nearly 40% and reduce clot build‐up in the filter more than 50%. Conclusions: We therefore believe that the design of an ideal VCF should take how to create swirling flow in the filter into the consideration. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Agreement and reproducibility of gray‐scale intravascular ultrasound and optical coherence tomography for the analysis of the bioresorbable vascular scaffold
Authors: Gómez‐Lara Josep , Brugaletta Salvatore , Diletti Roberto , Gogas Bill D. , Farooq Vasim , Onuma Yoshinobu , Gobbens Pierre , Van Es Gerrit Anne , García‐García Hector M. , Serruys Patrick W.
Published: April 2011

Objective: To report the agreement between gray‐scale intravascular ultrasound (GS‐IVUS) and optical coherence tomography (OCT) in assessing the bioresorbable vascular scaffolds (BVS) structures and their respective reproducibility. Background: BVS are composed of an erodible polymer. Ultrasound and light signals backscattered from polymeric material differs from metallic stents using GS‐IVUS and OCT. Methods: Forty‐five patients included in the ABSORB trial were treated with a 3.0 × 18 mm BVS and imaged with GS‐IVUS 20 MHz and OCT post‐implantation. Qualitative (ISA, side‐branch struts, protrusion, and dissections) and quantitative (number of struts, lumen, and scaffold area) measurements were assessed by two investigators. The agreement and the inter‐ and intraobserver reproducibility were investigated using the kappa (κ) and the interclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Results: GS‐IVUS and OCT agreement was predominantly poor at a lesion, frame, and strut level analysis (κ and ICC <0.4) for qualitative measurements. GS‐IVUS demonstrated a reduced ability to detect cross‐sections with ISA (4.5% vs. 20.6%), side‐branch (SB) struts (6.3% vs. 7.8%), protrusions (3.2% vs. 9.6%), and dissections (0.2% vs. 9.0%) compared with OCT. GS‐IVUS reproducibility was poor–moderate (κ and ICC <0.6) except for ISA and SB‐struts (κ and ICC between 0.2 and 0.75). OCT showed an excellent reproducibility (κ and ICC > 0.75) except for the assessment of tissue protrusion (κ and ICC between 0.47 and 0.94). GS‐IVUS reproducibility was poor–moderate (ICC ≤ 0.5) in assessing the number of struts but excellent with OCT (ICC > 0.85). The reproducibility to assess lumen and scaffold areas was excellent using both techniques (ICC > 0.85). Conclusions: GS‐IVUS has a poor capacity to detect qualitative findings post‐BVS implantation and its reproducibility is low compared with OCT. The use of GS‐IVUS should be limited when assessing lumen and scaffold areas. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Successful implantation of the edwards sapien THV via direct aortic access in a patient with previous pneumonectomy and no other access
Authors: Raja Yogesh , Mascaro Jorge , Doshi Sagar N.
Published: April 2011

The Edwards Sapien transcatheter heart valve (THV) is available for treatment of severe symptomatic aortic stenosis via transfemoral access or trans‐apical access when ilio‐femoral vessels are considered unsuitable. Some patients, however, may be unsuitable for access via either of these routes. We describe successful implantation of an Edwards Sapien THV via direct access of the ascending aorta in a patient with previous right pneumonectomy and pulmonary disease who was considered unsuitable for implantation via femoral vessels or via trans‐apical approach. The potential advantages of this novel access route over trans‐apical approach are discussed. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Occupational radiation dose during transcatheter aortic valve implantation
Authors: Sauren Loes D. , van Garsse Leen , van Ommen Vincent , Kemerink Gerrit J.
Published: April 2011

Objectives:

: To examine the occupational radiation dose during transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) in both transfemoral and transapical approach.

Background:

: Interventional fluoroscopic guided cardiac procedures lead inevitably to radiation exposure of workers, which over time may be associated with an increased incidence of cancer and cataract.

Methods:

: Using thermoluminescence dosimeters, the radiation dose of the cardiothoracic surgeon, cardiologist, and two assistants was measured on the apron at chest height and on both feet. In addition, dose measurements were performed on the hands of the two operators and on the eyes of the cardiothoracic surgeon. This study involved 11 transapical and 11 transfemoral TAVIs. The effective dose was estimated from the dose measured on the apron.

Results:

: In the transapical TAVI the cardiothoracic surgeon received a significantly higher equivalent hand dose (average ± SD), 1.9 ± 0.6 mSv, equivalent foot dose, 0.57 ± 0.31 mSv, equivalent eye dose, 0.11 ± 0.06 mSv, and effective dose, 0.03 ± 0.02 mSv, than any staff member in the transfemoral TAVI, with highest average doses of 0.03 ± 0.02 mSv, 0.22 ± 0.19 mSv, 0.03 ± 0.01 mSv, and 0.003 ± 0.005 mSv, respectively.

Conclusions:

: This study provides hitherto unavailable data on the radiation exposure of staff during transfemoral and transapical TAVIs. Relatively high doses were observed in the transapical approach. The dose of the right hand of the cardiothoracic surgeon will reach the annual limit within about 250 procedures per year, implying that hand dose measurements should become standard and that the number of procedures performed by the cardiothoracic surgeon involving X‐rays may have to be limited. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Perforation of the sinus of Valsalva by guiding catheter during the percutaneous coronary intervention via the right transradial approach: A very unusual complication
Authors: Tomassini Francesco , Gagnor Andrea , Varbella Ferdinando
Published: April 2011

Iatrogenic dissection of the sinus of Valsalva or of the ascending aorta is a rare but potentially fatal event, during the percuteneous coronary intervention (PCI). We reported a case of perforation of the sinus of Valsalva by guiding catheter during PCI via the right transradial approach (TRA) successfully managed and sealed without any sequelae. The choice of guiding catheter into the right TRA should be done carefully and its manipulation should be performed with caution in the coronary artery and in the sinus of Valsalva. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Characterization of radiation exposure and effect of a radiation monitoring policy in a large volume pediatric cardiac catheterization lab
Authors: Verghese George R. , McElhinney Doff B. , Strauss Keith J. , Bergersen Lisa
Published: April 2011

Objectives: This study aimed to characterize radiation dose during cardiac catheterization in congenital heart disease and to assess changes in dose after the introduction of a radiation monitoring policy. Background: Minimizing radiation exposure is an important patient safety initiative and relatively few data are available characterizing radiation dose for the broad spectrum of congenital cardiac catheter‐based interventions. Methods: Radiation dose data were reviewed on all cases since 7/1/05 at a single large center. Procedures were classified according to 20 common case types then subdivided into five age categories. Groups with <20 cases were excluded. Radiation dose was estimated by cumulative air KERMA (mGy) and DAP (dose area product, μGym2) which were reported as median and interquartile range (IQR). We also examined differences in radiation dose before and after the implementation of a radiation policy. Results: Between 7/1/05 and 12/10/08, 3,365 cases were identified for inclusion. Radiation dose increased with age and procedural complexity. Patients were characterized into low, medium, and high dose categories relative to each other. “Low” dose cases included isolated pulmonary or aortic valvotomy, pre‐Fontan assessment, and ASD closure. “High” dose cases involved multiple procedures in pulmonary arteries or veins. After introduction of a radiation policy, there was a significant decrease in radiation dose across a variety of case types, particularly among infants and young children. Conclusions: Radiation dose in congenital cardiac catheterization varies by age and procedure type. A radiation monitoring and notification policy may have contributed to reduced radiation dose. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Percutaneous transcatheter closure of interatrial septal defect in adults: Procedural outcome and long‐term results
Authors: Kefer Joelle , Sluysmans Thierry , Hermans Cedric , Khoury Rames El , Lambert Catherine , Van de Wyngaert Françoise , Ovaert Caroline , Pasquet Agnes
Published: April 2011

Background: Percutaneous transcatheter closure of patent foramen ovale (PFO) and atrial septal defect (ASD) has been shown to be feasible. Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of transcatheter interatrial septal shunt closure with prosthesis implantation in adults patients during long‐term follow‐up. In addition, the impact of thrombophilia and pulmonary hypertension on the outcome were investigated. Methods: Between June 1999 and November 2009, 287 patients (112 males, 43 ± 14 years) were treated in our institution by transcatheter closure of PFO (N = 175) or ASD (N = 112). Clinical and echocardiographic follow‐up were prospectively performed at 1, 6 and 12 months followed by a 1 once a year evaluation. Results: All procedures were successful with eight procedural complications (2.7%): one stroke, two femoral pseudoaneurysms, three transient atrial fibrillation, two minors pericardial effusions. Among patients with presumed paradoxical embolism, thrombophilia was observed in 29 patients (17%); only one of them experienced a recurrent stroke. Among patients with ASD, pulmonary hypertension was observed in 32 cases (28%) and significantly reduced 6 months after shunt closure (from 47 ± 7 to 31 ± 11 mm Hg, P < 0.0001). 99% of patients achieved a complete follow‐up. Clinical improvement was observed in 93%. Freedom from death, cardiac surgery or recurrent embolism was 98 ± 1% at 5 years. Conclusion: Percutaneous transcatheter interatrial septal defect closure is a safe and effective treatment in adults patients, even in case of thrombophilia or pulmonary hypertension, during a long‐term follow‐up, up to 11 years. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Rapid cycle change to predominantly radial access coronary angiography and percutaneous coronary intervention
Authors: Nadarasa Kugathasan , Robertson M. Clare , Wong Cheuk‐Kit , Green Belinda K.W. , Chen Victor H.T. , Wilkins Gerard T. , Williams Michael J.A.
Published: April 2011

Objectives: This study sought to evaluate the safety and feasibility of all operators at a single center changing from predominantly femoral to radial access for coronary percutaneous procedures. Background: The radial artery is currently regarded as a useful vascular access site for coronary angiography and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). The reduction in local vascular access complications is thought to be a major advantage of the radial route. Despite this, the technique is used less frequently possibly reflecting concerns by cardiologists about the feasibility of using radial access as a preferred option. Methods: A retrospective study of 1004 consecutive patients who underwent coronary angiography with or without PCI was analyzed. Procedure details and clinical outcomes were assessed according to the radial or femoral approaches. Results: The success rate for cardiac catheterization via the radial approach was 97.4% (815/837) and the femoral approach was 98.8% (165/167). The procedural failure rate for radial access was not different from the femoral route [2.6% vs. 1.2%; odds ratio (OR), 2.26; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.53–9.71; P = 0.41]. Major access site complications occurred in 0.25% patients in the radial group compared with 4.8% patients in the femoral group [OR, 0.05 (95% CI, 0.01–0.23); P < 0.0001]. Conclusions: The radial approach has a high rate of success and is associated with fewer major local vascular access site complications than the femoral route. These results can be achieved early in the operator learning curve of low to medium volume operators. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Thrombus formation after left atrial appendage exclusion using an amplatzer cardiac plug device
Authors: Cruz‐Gonzalez Ignacio , Martín Moreiras Javier , García Eulogio
Published: April 2011

The feasibility and safety of left atrial appendage closure with the Amplatzer cardiac plug (AGA Medical Corp., Minneapolis, MN) have been recently published; no thrombus formation on the device surface has been reported previously. We describe a case of a 66‐year‐old man with permanent atrial fibrillation, previous stroke, and contraindication for long‐term oral anticoagulant therapy. A 22‐mm ACP device was deployed successfully without complications. The patient was discharged on acetyl salicylic acid 100 mg and clopidogrel 75 mg daily. After 4 weeks, the patient was admitted for a lower gastrointestinal bleeding and clopidogrel was stopped. A 3‐month follow‐up echocardiogram confirmed the exclusion of the LAA but it demonstrated the presence of a thrombus on the atrial surface of the device. It was decided to keep the patient on acetyl salicylic acid 100 mg with the addition of enoxaparin 60 mg bid. Transesophageal echocardiogram demonstrated total resolution of the thrombus after 2 months. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Morphology and Crystal‐Plane Effects of Nanoscale Ceria on the Activity of CuO/CeO2 for NO Reduction by CO
Authors: Liu Lianjun , Yao Zhijian , Deng Yu , Gao Fei , Liu Bin , Dong Lin
Published: April 2011

The present work elucidated the morphology and crystal‐plane effects of nanoscale ceria on the activity of CuO/CeO2 catalysts toward NO reduction. CeO2 Nanopolyhedra were enclosed by (111) and (100) planes; the nanorods predominantly exposed (110) and (100) surfaces, and the nanocubes only showed the polar (100) planes. Moreover, the strongest interaction was between CuO and CeO2 rods, followed by CuO/CeO2 polyhedra, and the CuO/CeO2 cubes showed the least interaction. Importantly, Cu2+ ions could be incorporated into the pore and surface lattices by occupying the vacant sites in the nanostructure CeO2 rods. Partial copper oxide species were segregated on the surface of CeO2 cubes with larger particle sizes. As a result, the site geometry and coordination environment of Cu2+ ions were different on the (111), (110), and (100) surfaces of CeO2. This surface structure effect in turn led to a higher surface reducibility, activity and N2 selectivity of CuO/CeO2 nanorods for NO reduction at low temperatures (below 250 °C); the polyhedra and cubes were less active.
Heat Exchanger Network Integration Using Diverse Pinch Point and Mathematical Programming
Authors: Jiang N. , Bao S. , Gao Z.
Published: April 2011

A design approach based on diverse pinch point and mathematical programming for optimal integration of heat exchanger networks (HENs) is described. The effect of the dissimilar film heat transfer coefficients on the area target is considered by different pinch and composite curves. The approach combines insightful pinch analysis and rigorous mathematical programming, which enable systematic and automatic designs. A software platform is developed for the design of HENs. An example illustrates the application of the proposed approach.
Combining Glycomimetic and Multivalent Strategies toward Designing Potent Bacterial Lectin Inhibitors
Authors: Chabre Yoann M. , Giguère Denis , Blanchard Bertrand , Rodrigue Jacques , Rocheleau Sylvain , Neault Mathieu , Rauthu Subhash , Papadopoulos Alex , Arnold Alexandre A. , Imberty Anne , Roy René
Published: April 2011

As part of ongoing activities toward the design of potent and selective ligands against galactoside‐binding proteins from animal, bacterial, and plant lectins, a systematic investigation involving the synthesis and binding evaluations of a series of original β‐C‐galactopyranoside mimetics is described. The multivalent presentation of partly optimized candidates on various dendritic scaffolds through CuI‐catalyzed azide–alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAc) has also been achieved. Biophysical investigations based on isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) have indicated a dissociation constant in the low micromolar range for the best optimized monovalent conjugate (Kd=37 μM). The results thus confirmed that stable C‐galactosides could represent efficient synthetic glycomimetics of natural α‐linked oligosaccharidic inhibitors of PA‐IL lectin (Lec A) from the pathogenic Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Striking enhancements in the avidity of the glycoconjugates were also observed for tri‐, hexa‐, and nonavalent derivatives, among which the most potent exhibited dissociation constants below 500 nM, corresponding to a 400‐fold increase in affinity compared with the β‐D‐Gal‐O‐Me used as reference. To deepen our understanding of the binding mode of the best glycomimetics involved in the recognition process, molecular modeling studies, docking calculations, and NMR diffusion measurements have been performed. Although favorable complementary interactions induced by the addition of the hydrophobic aglycon might explain the affinity enhancement, experimental determination of the size and the topology of the multivalent conjugates further supported the formation of aggregative complexes as a major multivalent binding mode. This work represents a systematic and comprehensive study towards a thorough understanding of the protein–carbohydrate interactions involved in Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection, and as such should prove useful for the development of stable and optimized anti‐adhesive agents.
A Local Constitutive Model with Anisotropy for Various Homogeneous 2D Biaxial Deformation Modes
Authors: Luding Stefan , Perdahcıoğlu Emin Semih
Published: April 2011

A local constitutive model for granular materials with anisotropy is proposed and applied to different biaxial box deformation modes. The simplified version of the model (in the coordinate system of the biaxial box) involves only scalar values for hydrostatic and shear stresses, for the isotropic and shear strains as well as the new parameter, the (scalar) anisotropy modulus. A non‐linear constitutive evolution equation, for both shear stress and anisotropy, during deviatoric (shear) deformation, is based on observations gained from Discrete Element Method (DEM) simulations. While parameters like the bulk modulus are set to constant, for the sake of simplicity, the model involves a yield stress and a maximal anisotropy as well as the corresponding deviatoric shear‐rate pre‐factors for incremental stress and incremental anisotropy modulus. In this study, the self‐consistency of the simple‐most model is discussed before it is applied to various bi‐axial deformation modes. Constant anisotropy is compared to evolving anisotropy, where the sign accounts for the direction (tension or compression corresponds to positive or negative strain, respectively). Generalization to arbitrary orientation and possible non‐coaxial strain, stress and fabric tensors is not yet attempted in this study.
Experimental investigation of double gas hydrate formation in the presence of modified starch as a kinetic inhibitor in a flow mini‐loop apparatus
Authors: Talaghat Mohammad Reza
Published: April 2011

The main objective of the present work is experimental investigation of double gas hydrate formation with or without presence of modified starch as kinetic inhibitors in a flow mini‐loop apparatus. To this object, a laboratory flow mini‐loop apparatus was set up to measure the induction time for hydrate formation and the rate uptake when a gaseous mixture (such as 75% C1–25% C3, 25% C1–75% C3, 75% C1–25% i‐C4 and 25% C1–75% i‐C4) is contacted with water containing or not containing dissolved inhibitor under suitable temperature and pressure conditions. In each experiment, water blend saturated with gas mixture is circulated up to a required pressure. Pressure is maintained at a constant value during experimental runs by means of required gas mixture make‐up. The effect of pressure on gas consumption during hydrate formation is investigated with or without presence of polyvinylpyrrolidone and modified starch as kinetic inhibitors at various concentrations. Our results were shown that the modified starch can be applied as inhibitors in prevention of double gas hydrate formation in mini‐loop apparatus. © 2011 Canadian Society for Chemical Engineering
Numerical investigation of FLUID COKING™ units, Part II: Modelling of feed vaporisation
Authors: Li Tingwen , Grace John , Bi Xiaotao , Reid Kevin , Wormsbecker Michael
Published: April 2011

The hydrodynamics of FLUID COKING™ units are investigated with computational fluid dynamics (CFD). The vaporisation of liquid feed is simulated by introducing limiting assumptions to simplify and bound the process: (a) liquid feed entirely vaporised at the entrance of the column; (b) liquid feed vaporised immediately upon contact with the coke particles; and (c) liquid coated uniformly on the particles, with vapour generated uniformly throughout the bed. Results predicted under these extreme scenarios are compared. Then, two cases with a relatively realistic description of liquid–solid interaction and feed vaporisation are simulated. The vaporisation rate is found to play an important role in affecting the flow hydrodynamics. Based on the local liquid‐to‐solid ratio and shear stress distribution, an agglomeration index is introduced to characterise the stability of agglomerates in the reactor. The vaporisation rate of liquid film on particles is shown to affect the distribution of the agglomeration index. The results indicate that a high vaporisation rate tends to decrease both agglomeration and stripper fouling. © 2011 Canadian Society for Chemical Engineering
Numerical investigation of FLUID COKING™ units, Part I: Hydrodynamics of a scaled cold flow model
Authors: Li Tingwen , Grace John , Bi Xiaotao , Reid Kevin , Wormsbecker Michael
Published: April 2011

The hydrodynamics of a FLUID COKING™ unit were investigated with computational fluid dynamics (CFD) by simulating a scaled cold flow model. Steady state flow hydrodynamics were then analysed by focusing on the local voidage distribution and solids velocity. The influence of simulation time on interpretation and analysis of results was evaluated first, and a short‐time simulation was found to be able to provide useful information. The predicted flow behaviour was compared both quantitatively and qualitatively with previous experimental findings. The influences of nozzle‐insertion, feed distribution, and solids circulation rate were investigated. The numerical simulations indicated that the nozzle insertion and solids circulation have little impact on the flow hydrodynamics for the range of conditions studied. © 2011 Canadian Society for Chemical Engineering
Synthesis and Antitumor Activity of 3‐(2‐Phenyl‐1,3‐thiazol‐4‐yl)‐1H‐indoles and 3‐(2‐Phenyl‐1,3‐thiazol‐4‐yl)‐1H‐7‐azaindoles
Authors: Diana Patrizia , Carbone Anna , Barraja Paola , Montalbano Alessandra , Parrino Barbara , Lopergolo Alessia , Pennati Marzia , Zaffaroni Nadia , Cirrincione Girolamo
Published: April 2011

Given the potent antimicrobial, antiviral, and antitumor activities of many natural products, there is an increasing interest in the synthesis of new molecules based on natural compound scaffolds. Based on a 2,4‐bis(3′‐indolyl)imidazole skeleton, two new series of phenylthiazolylindoles and phenylthiazolyl‐7‐azaindoles were obtained by Hantzsch reaction between substituted phenylthioamides and the α‐bromoacetyl derivatives. Some azaindole derivatives, tested at the National Cancer Institute against a panel of ∼60 tumor cell lines derived from nine human cancer cell types, showed inhibitory effects against all cell lines investigated at micromolar to nanomolar concentrations. Two of them exhibited a high affinity for CDK1, with IC50 values of 0.41 and 0.85 μM. These promising results will set the foundation for future investigations into the development of anticancer therapies.
Racial variation in willingness to trade financial resources for life‐prolonging cancer treatment
Authors: Martin Michelle Y. , Pisu Maria , Oster Robert A. , Urmie Julie M. , Schrag Deborah , Huskamp Haiden A. , Lee Jeannette , Kiefe Catarina I. , Fouad Mona N.
Published: April 2011

BACKGROUND:

Minority patients receive more aggressive care at the end of life, but it is unclear whether this trend is consistent with their preferences. We compared the willingness to use personal financial resources to extend life among white, black, Hispanic, and Asian cancer patients.

METHODS:

Patients with newly diagnosed lung or colorectal cancer participating in the Cancer Care Outcomes Research and Surveillance observational study were interviewed about myriad aspects of their care, including their willingness to expend personal financial resources to prolong life. We evaluated the association of race/ethnicity with preference for life‐extending treatment controlling for clinical, sociodemographic, and psychosocial factors using logistic regression.

RESULTS:

Among patients (N = 4214), 80% of blacks reported a willingness to spend all resources to extend life, versus 54% of whites, 69% of Hispanics, and 72% of Asians (P<.001). In multivariate analyses, blacks were more likely to opt for expending all financial resources to extend life than whites (odds ratio, 2.41; 95% confidence interval, 1.84‐3.17; P < .001).

CONCLUSIONS:

Black cancer patients are more willing to exhaust personal financial resources to extend life. Delivering quality cancer care requires an understanding of how these preferences impact cancer care and outcomes. Cancer 2011;. © 2011 American Cancer Society.
Outcomes and metrics
Authors: Greenberg Mark , Klassen Anne , Gafni Amiram , McBride Mary L , Albritton Karen
Published: April 2011

Against a background of poorly coordinated provision of holistic care to the adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer population, the Canadian National Task Force on Adolescent and Young Adult Oncology, which is supported by the Canadian Partnership Against Cancer and the C17 network, convened a workshop to formulate the components of a systematic approach to care for this age group. Because such a program will deflect scarce resources, it must be validated and justified by reproducible metrics. A subgroup of experts was convened, comprising attendees at the AYA workshop, including AYA cancer survivors. A substantial number of key, feasible, and consistent metrics were identified and are systematized, justified, and presented in this article. Prioritization from within this range will be necessary. Cancer 2011;117(10 suppl):2342–50. © 2011 American Cancer Society.
Opportunities and challenges of establishing a nationwide strategy for adolescents and young adults in Canada with cancer
Authors: Robison Leslie L.
Published: April 2011

Currently, there is priority to address the complex needs of the adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer population. At a workshop in Toronto, the Canadian healthcare community brought together a broad range of stakeholders to discuss the opportunities and challenges of developing a nationwide strategy for AYA cancer patients. Summarized here is an overview of the workshop objectives and considerations coming from the conference participants relative to opportunities, challenges, and future directions. It is concluded that the Canadian healthcare and advocacy communities are well‐positioned to have a major impact and assume a leadership role in AYA cancer care. Cancer 2011;117(10 suppl):2351–4. © 2011 American Cancer Society..
Critical issues in transition and survivorship for adolescents and young adults with cancers
Authors: Nathan Paul C. , Hayes‐Lattin Brandon , Sisler Jeffrey J. , Hudson Melissa M.
Published: April 2011

The majority of children, adolescents, and young adults diagnosed with cancer will become long‐term survivors with many potential years of life ahead of them. Their journey from health through diagnosis and treatment to survivorship involves multiple transitions. Transitional services that should be available throughout this journey include health‐related education, health surveillance and screening, management of cancer‐related complications, and psychosocial support relevant to their developmental needs. Survivors require lifelong care that focuses not only on the medical risks arising from their cancer therapy, but also the psychosocial, educational, and vocational implications of surviving cancer. Because many community health care providers lack familiarity with the health risks associated with childhood or adolescent/young adult cancer, survivors must have sufficient health knowledge to advocate for risk‐based cancer‐related follow‐up; the provision of a treatment summary and care plan at the conclusion of their cancer therapy is an important tool for facilitating this process. The availability of resources for survivors varies by geography, health care system, and survivor characteristics. Adolescents and young adults who receive their care outside of a pediatric cancer center have particularly limited access. The limitations in cancer center resources (along with survivor preference) strongly suggest that the long‐term care of survivors will need to be shared between the cancer centers and primary care providers in survivors' communities. Cancer 2011;117(10 suppl):2335–41. © 2011 American Cancer Society.
Palliative care in adolescents and young adults with cancer
Authors: Pritchard Sheila , Cuvelier Geoff , Harlos Mike , Barr Ronald
Published: April 2011

Adolescents and young adults (AYA) with advanced or terminal cancer have distinctive medical and psychosocial needs that may not have been adequately provided by either pediatric or adult palliative care services. A discussion group, as part of a larger workshop on AYA with cancer, was held in Toronto on March 11‐13, 2010;117:–. Recommendations were as follows: Develop a specific AYA screening tool designed to detect increased anxiety or new symptoms and to initiate discussion about palliative or symptom care; Set Canadian standards for palliative care in AYA patients. These standards should be included in hospital accreditation; Involve the palliative/symptom care team early in the disease trajectory to help manage clinically important symptoms that may not be associated with imminent death; Establish specific AYA multidisciplinary palliative care teams throughout Canada that are flexible and can work in both pediatric and adult facilities, and are able to work in a “virtual” environment to support patients being cared for at home; Improve physical facilities in hospices and hospitals to meet the distinctive needs of terminally ill AYA patients; Enhance support for palliative care at home by: changing legislation to improve Compassionate Care Benefits and developing “virtual palliative care support teams”. Adequate provision of AYA palliative care and symptom management services will likely confer notable benefits to AYA patients and their families, and is likely to be cost saving to the tax payer by avoiding prolonged hospitalization and promoting easier return to work for the families and caregivers. Cancer 2011;117(10 suppl):2323–8. © 2011 American Cancer Society.
Cancer genome variation in children, adolescents, and young adults
Authors: Hudson Thomas J.
Published: April 2011

This mini‐review describes the rapid changes in genome technologies that are leading to comprehensive views of genetic alterations in cancer, and presents high‐level thoughts on ways to accelerate translation into clinical medicine. Issues that are more relevant to children, adolescents, and young adult patients with cancer are highlighted. Cancer 2011;117(10 suppl):2262–7. © 2011 American Cancer Society.
The cancer is over, now what?
Authors: Oeffinger Kevin C. , Tonorezos Emily S.
Published: April 2011

About 26,000 adolescents and young adults ages 15 to 29 years are diagnosed with invasive cancer each year. Although >80% will survive beyond 5 years from their cancer diagnosis, many will develop serious morbidity or die prematurely secondary to health problems in part related to their cancer therapy. This article provides a brief overview of mortality, morbidity, and health status among long‐term survivors of adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer. Four examples were used to illustrate the potential of risk‐reducing strategies: breast cancer after chest irradiation, coronary artery disease after chest irradiation, cardiovascular disease in testicular cancer survivors, and the multitude of health problems faced by survivors receiving an allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant. A conceptual model for risk‐based health care was presented and future directions of the delivery of care for AYA cancer survivors discussed. Cancer 2011;117(10 suppl):2250–7. © 2011 American Cancer Society.
Adolescents, young adults, and cancer—the international challenge
Authors: Barr Ronald D.
Published: April 2011

Cancer in adolescents and young adults is an important public health issue, because there are approximately 1 million new cases annually. The distribution of diseases in this age group varies geographically, contributing to differences in survival rates. Although an overall survival rate exceeding 80 % has been reported in optimal circumstances, emerging knowledge about distinctions in tumor biology and enhanced clinical accrual to clinical trials should lead to further gains. The challenges of cancer survivorship demand further attention with a particular focus on the quality of life of survivors and amelioration of the long‐term complications of treatment. Programs in cancer screening and prevention provide potential for considerable benefits in this age group. A renewed perspective on the adolescent and young adult cohort is required; and, in all of these opportunities for change, there are important roles to be played by advocacy groups internationally. Cancer 2011;117(10 suppl):2245–9. © 2011 American Cancer Society.
Psychological, social, and behavioral issues for young adults with cancer
Authors: Zebrack Brad J.
Published: April 2011

Theories of human development suggest that, although all cancer patients experience a common set of life disruptions, they experience them differently, focus on different issues, and attach different levels of importance to different aspects of the experience depending on the time in life at which they were diagnosed. During the critical developmental transition from childhood to adulthood, older adolescents and young adults in particular have typical concerns with establishing identity, developing a positive body image and sexual identity, separating from parents, increasing involvement with peers and dating, and beginning to make decisions about careers or employment, higher education, and/or family. Accordingly, cancer‐related issues such as premature confrontation with mortality, changes in physical appearance, increased dependence on parents, disruptions in social life and school/employment because of treatment, loss of reproductive capacity, and health‐related concerns about the future may be particularly distressing for adolescents and young adults. Psychosocial and behavioral interventions for young adult cancer patients and survivors often involve assisting these individuals in retaining or returning to function in significant social roles, such as spouse, parent, student, worker, or friend. Successful interventions will enable these young people to overcome the detrimental impact of a health crisis and strengthen the internal and external coping resources available to them. Cancer 2011;117(10 suppl):2289–94. © 2011 American Cancer Society.
Research challenges in adolescent and young adult cancer survivor research
Authors: Tonorezos Emily S. , Oeffinger Kevin C.
Published: April 2011

Every year in Canada and the United States, about 26,000 adolescent and young adults (AYA) between ages 15 and 29 years are diagnosed with cancer. Although the majority of AYA cancer patients will survive their primary cancer, many will develop serious health problems or die prematurely secondary to their curative cancer therapy. Much is known about the long‐term health outcomes after adolescent cancer. In contrast, there remain substantial gaps in our understanding of the long‐term outcomes after most young adult cancers. To optimize the health and quality of life of AYA cancer survivors and improve upon curative cancer therapy, it is essential to further investigate the long‐term outcomes of this population. Before embarking upon this endeavor, it is important for the investigator and the funding agency to be cognizant about some of the unique challenges in research of AYA cancer survivors. To this end, the authors present a brief overview of some of the key research challenges, discuss the strengths and limitations of using available AYA cohorts and databases, and highlight potential future directions. Cancer 2011;117(10 suppl):2295–300. © 2011 American Cancer Society.