bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Watershed delineation for the Amazon sub‐basin system using GTOPO30 DEM and a drainage network extracted from JERS SAR images
Authors: Seyler Frédérique , Muller Frédéric , Cochonneau Gérard , Guimarães Leandro , Guyot Jean Loup
Published: August 2009

In this study, we used a geographic information system (GIS), remote sensing products and a digital elevation model (DEM) to prepare and to test the existing data sources and algorithms for a distributed, physically based, hydrological model, incorporating the gauging stations of the national networks of the Amazon basin. Watershed delineation for the Amazon sub‐basin system is a necessary first step in distributed hydrological modelling. The DEMs currently available for the Amazon basin are GTOPO30, which has a grid spacing of about 1 km, and SRTM, which can be freely obtained from the internet at a resolution of about 90 m. Each of these DEMs has different sources and consequently different kinds of uncertainties. We have tested the two DEMs, comparing the results obtained using both of them on different sub‐basins within the Amazonian basin. The delineation of the sub‐basins for the entire Amazonian basin, which is currently available on our project site (http://www.mpl.ird.fr/hybam/), has been obtained from the GTOPO30. With GTOPO30 alone, the D8 algorithm (which determines the direction of flow in eight neighbouring cells) does not always give the correct delineation of sub‐basins corresponding to the gauging stations. This problem occurs mainly in the very flat areas of the region. One way to overcome this problem is to burn‐in the DEM with a river network. The spatial precision of this river network must be compatible with that of the DEM, and homogeneous throughout the basin. We tested three river networks on the Negro River sub‐basins. We found that a suitable river network could be extracted by digitising a JERS‐1 mosaic image. The DEM GTOPO30 burned‐in with the JERS‐1 extracted river network made the correct distributed modelling of the Amazon gauged sub‐basins possible by determining water transfer times within the basin. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Rapamycin potentiates the effects of paclitaxel in endometrial cancer cells through inhibition of cell proliferation and induction of apoptosis
Authors: Shafer Aaron , Zhou Chunxiao , Gehrig Paola A. , Boggess John F. , Bae‐Jump Victoria L.
Published: August 2009

Mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitors modulate signaling pathways involved in cell cycle progression, and recent phase II trials demonstrate activity in patients with endometrial cancer. Our objective was to examine the effects of combination therapy with rapamycin and paclitaxel in endometrial cancer cell lines. Paclitaxel inhibited proliferation in a dose‐dependent manner in both cell lines with IC50 values of 0.1–0.5 nM and 1–5 nM for Ishikawa and ECC‐1 cells, respectively. To assess synergy of paclitaxel and rapamycin, the combination index (CI) was calculated by the method of Chou and Talalay. Simultaneous exposure of cells to various doses of paclitaxel in combination with rapamycin (1 nM) resulted in a significant synergistic anti‐proliferative effect (CI <1, range 0.131–0.920). Rapamycin alone did not induce apoptosis, but combined treatment with paclitaxel increased apoptosis over that of paclitaxel alone. Treatment with rapamycin and paclitaxel resulted in decreased phosphorylation of S6 and 4E‐BP1, two critical downstream targets of the mTOR pathway. Rapamycin decreased hTERT mRNA expression by real‐time RT‐PCR while paclitaxel alone had no effect on telomerase activity. Paclitaxel increased polymerization and acetylation of tubulin, and rapamycin appeared to enhance this effect. Thus, in conclusion, we demonstrate that rapamycin potentiates the effects of paclitaxel in endometrial cancer cells through inhibition of cell proliferation, induction of apoptosis and potentially increased polymerization and acetylation of tubulin. This suggests that the combination of rapamycin and paclitaxel may be a promising effective targeted therapy for endometrial cancer.
Cell based therapy for duchenne muscular dystrophy
Authors: Farini Andrea , Razini Paola , Erratico Silvia , Torrente Yvan , Meregalli Mirella
Published: August 2009

Mutations in the dystrophin gene cause an X‐linked genetic disorder: Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). Stem cell therapy is an attractive method to treat DMD because a small number of cells are required to obtain a therapeutic effect. Here, we discussed about multiple types of myogenic stem cells and their possible use to treat DMD. The identification of a stem cell population providing efficient muscle regeneration is critical for the progression of cell therapy for DMD. We speculated that the most promising possibility for the treatment of DMD is a combination of different approaches, such as gene and stem cell therapy. J. Cell. Physiol. 221: 526–534, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Human cytomegalovirus productively infects adrenocortical cells and induces an early cortisol response
Authors: Trevisan Marta , Matkovic Urska , Cusinato Riccardo , Toppo Stefano , Palù Giorgio , Barzon Luisa
Published: August 2009

Following our recent findings on the presence of human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) in the normal human adrenal cortex and in adrenocortical tumors, especially in cortisol‐secreting tumors, aim of the present study was to investigate the direct effects of HCMV infection on human adrenocortical cells. To this aim, both clinical isolates and laboratory strains of HCMV were used to assess the early effects of infection on human adrenocortical cell morphology, proliferation, gene expression, and steroidogenic function. Both clinical and laboratory HCMV strains could infect and replicate in primary human adrenocortical cell cultures and in adrenocortical carcinoma cell lines, leading to cytopathic changes. Most importantly, in the first hours post‐infection (p.i.), adrenocortical cells showed a significant increase of cortisol and estrogen production, paralleled by up‐regulation of steroidogenic acute regulatory protein and expression of steroidogenic enzymes involved in the last steps of adrenal steroidogenesis. This effect was probably due to HCMV immediate‐early gene expression, since it was most evident in the early phases p.i. and UV‐inactivated viral particles did not affect hormone production. Moreover, the effect on steroidogenesis was HCMV specific, since it was not observed after infection with herpes simplex virus. These data suggest that human adrenocortical cells are permissive to HCMV infection and acutely respond to infection with increased cortisol production. An acute glucocorticoid response is typically triggered by infections and is considered to be critical to host defense against pathogens, although, in the case of HCMV infection, it might also enhance viral replication and reactivation from latency. J. Cell. Physiol. 221: 629–641, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Intracellular presence of insulin and its phosphorylated receptor in non‐small cell lung cancer
Authors: Mattarocci Stefano , Abbruzzese Claudia , Mileo Anna M. , Visca Paolo , Antoniani Barbara , Alessandrini Gabriele , Facciolo Francesco , Felsani Armando , Radulescu Razvan T. , Paggi Marco G.
Published: August 2009

Insulin has been known for a long time to influence the growth and differentiation of normal and transformed cells. In order to delineate the role of insulin specifically in non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), we have now searched by immunohistochemistry (IHC) for the presence of insulin in NSCLC samples. Among the 112 samples we studied, 30 were found to contain insulin, which was detected in the form of intracytoplasmic granula. Moreover, its expression significantly correlated with (a) the morphological/histopathological subtype of NSCLC, being more frequent in adenocarcinomas; (b) the grade of tumor differentiation, displaying an increase in low‐grade carcinomas; (c) tumor size, occurring predominantly in smaller tumors; (d) the presence of phosphorylated, activated insulin receptor; (e) the median patient age, being present in relatively younger individuals. Furthermore and interestingly, surrounding atypical adenomatous hyperplastic areas and normal alveolar pneumocytes scored insulin‐positive in some of the insulin‐negative tumors. In addition, PCR exploration for insulin transcripts in some samples positive for immunoreactive insulin was negative, indicating a possibly exogenous origin for the intracellular insulin in our NSCLC cohort. Taken together, our data suggest that an intracellular insulin activity is important for the progression of low‐grade human lung adenocarcinomas. J. Cell. Physiol. 221: 766–770, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The vertebral formula of the last common ancestor of African apes and humans
Authors: McCollum Melanie A. , Rosenman Burt A. , Suwa Gen , Meindl Richard S. , Lovejoy C. Owen
Published: August 2009

The modal number of lumbar vertebrae in modern humans is five. It varies between three and four in extant African apes (mean=3.5). Because both chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes) and gorillas (Gorilla gorilla) possess the same distributions of thoracic, lumbar, and sacral vertebrae, it has been assumed from parsimony that the last common ancestor (LCA) of African apes and humans possessed a similarly short lower back. This “short‐backed LCA” scenario has recently been viewed favorably in an analysis of the intra‐ and interspecific variation in axial formulas observed among African apes and humans (Pilbeam, 2004. J Exp Zool 302B:241–267). However, the number of bonobo (Pan paniscus) specimens in that study was small (N=17). Here we reconsider vertebral type and number in the LCA in light of an expanded P. paniscus sample as well as evidence provided by the human fossil record. The precaudal (pre‐coccygeal) axial column of bonobos differs from those of chimpanzees and gorillas in displaying one additional vertebra as well as significantly different combinations of sacral, lumbar, and thoracic vertebrae. These findings, along with the six‐segmented lumbar column of early Australopithecus and early Homo, suggest that the LCA possessed a long axial column and long lumbar spine and that reduction in the lumbar column occurred independently in humans and in each ape clade, and continued after separation of the two species of Pan as well. Such an explanation is strongly congruent with additional details of lumbar column reduction and lower back stabilization in African apes. J. Exp. Zool. (Mol. Dev. Evol.) 314B:123–134, 2010. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. [This article was published online on 17 August 2009. An error was subsequently identified and the article was corrected on 8 September 2009.]
Head morphology of selected Staphylinoidea (Coleoptera: Staphyliniformia) with an evaluation of possible groundplan features in Staphylinidae
Authors: Weide Daniela , Betz Oliver
Published: August 2009

In insects, anatomical features of the head have been found to provide important information for phylogenetic and comparative evolutionary studies. We analyzed the internal head morphology of three (omaliine, tachyporine, oxyteline group) out of the four subfamily groups of the beetle family Staphylinidae plus two non‐staphylinid outgroups (i.e., Agyrtidae and Leiodidae). Synchrotron X‐ray micro‐tomography was used to obtain comparative head anatomical datasets of eight species to describe (i) the presence/absence of muscles inside the head capsule and (ii) the variability in their points of origin. Nineteen of these muscles were phylogenetically informative (nine with respect to presence/absence and eleven with respect to the origin; one muscle had an influence on both analyses) and were used in character mapping analyses to reconstruct groundplan patterns of the head musculature in Staphylinidae and their subgroups. Three muscles (Mm. 7, 9, 50) were identified as possibly autapomorphic for Staphyliniformia. The taxon (Agyrtidae + Leiodidae) is supported by the absence of M. 9. The monophyly of the tachyporine group is supported by a common origin of M. 4. Aleocharinae, a subfamily within the tachyporine group, is supported by the absence of M. 42 and possibly by numerous points of origin of various muscles (Mm. 1, 17, 28, 29, 30). Our analysis of the general organization of the hypopharynx‐prementum‐complex has revealed that this complex is organized in a similar way in the investigated staphylinoids, i.e., with the prementum lying anteriorly to and being in line with the hypopharynx and the mentum. We have found deviating conditions in the investigated species of the Aleocharinae, in which the prementum can be largely retracted posteriorly. Consequently, it is sandwiched between the ventral mentum and the dorsal hypopharyngeal region. The hypopharyngeal region is thus lifted dorsad to a large extent, approaching the cibarial roof. This situation is paralleled by a loss of the hypopharyngeal retractor (M. 42) and a shift of origin of premental retractors (Mm. 28–30) posteriorly toward the gula. J. Morphol. 270:1503–1523, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Fat embolism: Evolution of histopathological changes in the rat lung
Authors: McIff Terence E. , Poisner Alan M. , Herndon Betty , Lankachandra Kamani , Schutt Shane , HaileSelassie Berekeetab , Patel Sapna , Quinn Tim , Adler Federico , Molteni Agostino
Published: August 2009

The pathophysiology of Fat Embolism Syndrome (FES) is poorly understood and subject to some controversy. Evaluation of the evolution of histological changes in the lungs of patients with FES is impractical. The current theories of FES were established through acute clinical observations and acute animal experiments, but sequential changes in the histology of lungs over a prolonged period have not been made. The progressive effects of fat embolization of the lungs were examined in a rat model over a period of 11 days. Triolein, a major bone marrow fat, was administered to conscious Sprague‐Dawley rats via the caudal vein. Rats were euthanized at 24, 48, 96 h, and 11 days, but some died within a few hours. Histomorphometric evaluations of lung tissue were made, including stains for fat, collagen, and smooth muscle actin. Arterial and arteriolar patency decreased progressively up to 96 h, but returned toward normal after 11 days. A striking finding was the very early presence of inflammation and fibrosis after only several hours, persisting up to 11 days. The results of this study provide evidence of both very early and prolonged changes due to fat embolization. © 2009 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 28:191–197, 2010
Skeletal repair in rabbits using a novel biomimetic composite based on adipose‐derived stem cells encapsulated in collagen I gel with PLGA‐β‐TCP scaffold
Authors: Hao Wei , Pang Long , Jiang Ming , Lv Rong , Xiong Zhuo , Hu Yun‐Yu
Published: August 2009

In bone tissue engineering, the cell distribution mode in the scaffold may affect in vivo osteogenesis. Therefore, we fabricated a novel biomimetic construct based on a combination of rabbit adipose‐derived stem cells (rASCs) encapsulated in collagen I gel with a PLGA‐β‐TCP scaffold (rASCs‐COL/PLGA‐β‐TCP, group A), the combination of rASCs and PLGA‐β‐TCP (rASCs/PLGA‐β‐TCP, group B), the combination of collagen I gel and PLGA‐β‐TCP (COL/PLGA‐β‐TCP, group C), and PLGA‐β‐TCP scaffold (group D). The composites were implanted into a 15‐mm length critical‐sized segmental radial defect. The results were assessed by histology, radiographs, bone mineral density (BMD), and mechanical testing. After 24 weeks, the medullary cavity recanalized, bone was rebuilt, and molding finished, the bone contour remodeled smoothly and the scaffold degraded completely in group A. The BMDs and mechanical properties were similar to normal. However, the bone defect remained unrepaired in groups B, C, and D. Moreover, the scaffold degradation rate in group A was significantly higher than the other groups. Thus, enhanced in vivo osteogenesis of rASCs wrapped in collagen I gel combined with PLGA‐β‐TCP was achieved, and the bone defect was repaired. We hope this study provides new insights into ASCs‐based bone tissue engineering. © 2009 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 28:252–257, 2010
Identification and characterisation of the E951 artificial food sweetener by vibrational spectroscopy and theoretical modelling
Authors: Peica Niculina
Published: August 2009

Aspartame (E951), a very well‐known dipeptide sweetener, approximately 150–200 times sweeter than sugar, is widely used in a variety of applications, especially in soft drinks. A drawback of E951 is its relatively low stability at high pH values and at high temperatures, thereby limiting its use. The changes observed in the very strong bands from the 1600–1300 cm−1 spectral region, characteristic to the υ(CO) mode coupled with the NH bending mode, allows to establish the species present in the Raman and SERS solutions at different concentrations and pH values. More exactly, a molecule protonation at the amino group was detected on going from basic to acidic pH values. The DFT calculated geometry, harmonic vibrational modes and Raman scattering activities of E951 were in good agreement with the experimental data and helped establish its SERS behaviour on silver surfaces. According to the DFT calculations performed, E951 can give rise to an intramolecular hydrogen bonding network, with lengths in the same range as the hydrogen bonds in the peptide unit moieties. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Micro‐Raman spectroscopy and VP‐SEM/EDS applied to the identification of mineral particles and fibres in histological sections
Authors: Rinaudo Caterina , Allegrina Mario , Fornero Elisa , Musa Maya , Croce Alessandro , Bellis Donata
Published: August 2009

Histological sections of a patient affected by an important respiratory disease were analysed firstly by optical microscope(OM)—crossed polarisers—to identify the presence of incorporated inorganic particles, with particular attention to the fibrous ones. Then, the particles/fibres that were found were studied both with micro‐Raman spectroscopy and variable‐pressure scanning electron microscopy with energy‐dispersive spectroscopy (VP‐SEM/EDS). The two techniques allowed the in situ characterisation of the inorganic phases without disintegration of the organic matter. Micro‐Raman spectroscopy was able to identify the vibrating chemical groups of the mineral phase associated with the inorganic grain while the crystalline structure was preserved by the biological system. The VP‐SEM/EDS characterisation, defining the elemental chemical composition of the analysed particle/fibre, allowed confirmation of the mineral phase deducible from spectroscopic data or its identification with certainty when the spectroscopic data were not exhaustive. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Fungus ball of the paranasal sinuses: Experience in 160 patients treated with endoscopic surgery
Authors: Nicolai Piero , Lombardi Davide , Tomenzoli Davide , Villaret Andrea Bolzoni , Piccioni Michela , Mensi Magda , Maroldi Roberto
Published: August 2009

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Herein we present our experience in the management of fungus ball (FB) of the paranasal sinuses. Preoperative imaging strategy and findings, surgical technique, and pathologic and microbiologic results are discussed.

Study Design:

Retrospective chart review of patients with FB of the paranasal sinuses who underwent endoscopic surgery at the Department of Otorhinolaryngology of the University of Brescia, Italy.

Methods:

From January 1990 to December 2006, 160 patients with sinonasal fungus ball were treated with a purely endoscopic approach. All patients underwent preoperative computed tomography (CT) and/or magnetic resonance (MR) imaging; an endo‐oral dental x‐ray or orthopantomography and odontological evaluation were also performed in patients with maxillary sinus localization. All removed material was sent for pathologic and microbiologic evaluation. All patients were prospectively followed with endoscopic control every 2 months during the first postoperative year and subsequently every 6 months.

Results:

The patient cohort included 118 females and 42 males, with an age from 19 to 85 years (mean, 52.7 years). FB was located in the maxillary sinus in 135 (84.4%) patients; in two cases both sinuses were affected. Sphenoid and ethmoid involvement was observed in 23 (14.4%) and 1 (0.6%) patients, respectively. Simultaneous ethmoid and sphenoid involvement was found in one (0.6%) case. In all patients complete removal of fungal debris was obtained through wide sinusotomy. No recurrence was observed.

Conclusions:

Endoscopic surgery is a safe and effective treatment for paranasal sinuses FB. A proper imaging study by MR and/or CT can address diagnosis, which is based upon detection of fungal hyphae at histology. Laryngoscope, 2009
Radiation‐induced volume changes in parotid and submandibular glands in patients with head and neck cancer receiving postoperative radiotherapy: A longitudinal study
Authors: Wang Zhong‐He , Yan Chao , Zhang Zhi‐Yuan , Zhang Chen‐Ping , Hu Hai‐Sheng , Kirwan Jessica , Mendenhall William M.
Published: August 2009

Objectives/Hypothesis:

To investigate changes in parotid and submandibular gland volumes of patients with head and neck cancer treated with postoperative intensity‐modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) or conventional radiotherapy (CRT), and to relate the volume changes to different mean radiation therapy (RT) doses to the parotid and submandibular glands.

Methods:

Between May 2007 and May 2008, 82 head and neck cancer patients (oral cavity cancer, 71; oropharynx cancer, 11) were treated with surgery and postoperative RT (IMRT, 40; CRT, 42) at our institution. Every patient underwent four computed tomography (CT) scans: one before RT, one after 3 weeks or at the 15th fraction of RT, one upon completing RT, and one at 2 months after RT; 39 of 82 patients had an additional CT scan at 6 months after RT. A dose‐volume histogram was used to evaluate the mean volumes of patients' parotid and submandibular glands and mean RT doses to the glands on every CT scan. Altogether, 241 salivary glands (parotid, 162; submandibular, 79) were analyzed. The volume changes of the glands were evaluated against three levels of mean gland doses: <30 Gy, 30 to 50 Gy, and >50 Gy.

Results:

The mean RT doses to spared parotid glands, spared submandibular glands, and irradiated submandibular glands in patients treated with IMRT were 22.21 Gy, 18.26 Gy, and 52.19 Gy, respectively. The mean doses to parotid and submandibular glands in patients treated with CRT were 50.22 Gy and 62.09 Gy, respectively. The average volume loss rates in parotid glands after 3 weeks of RT, at the end of RT, and 2 months after RT versus before RT were 20.01%, 26.93%, and 27.21%, respectively. The average volume loss rates in submandibular glands after 3 weeks of RT, at the end of RT, and 2 months after RT versus before RT was 11.49%, 16.76%, and 16.29%, respectively. Parotid and submandibular glands did not continue to shrink after completing RT. We observed more volume loss during RT in the parotid glands than in the submandibular glands. The average rates of volume loss during the first 3 weeks of RT (20.01% and 11.49%, respectively) were larger than in the last 3 weeks of RT (8.57% and 6.0%, respectively). No significant differences were observed in the mean volumes of both parotid and submandibular glands between the end of RT, 2 months post‐RT, and 6 months post‐RT (P > .05). Volume loss at higher doses (>30 Gy) to the glands was significantly larger than at low doses (<30 Gy; P < .001).

Conclusions:

The parotid and submandibular glands shrunk during RT, but the parotid glands shrunk more than the submandibular glands. These gland volume reductions correlated significantly with the mean dose to the irradiated glands; the spared glands showed few changes. Laryngoscope, 2009
Effect of the tympanostomy tube on postoperative retraction of the soft posterior meatal wall caused by habitual sniffing
Authors: Yamamoto‐Fukuda Tomomi , Takasaki Kenji , Takahashi Haruo
Published: August 2009

Objectives/Hypothesis:

To evaluate the effect of the tympanostomy tube (TT) on postoperative retraction of the soft posterior meatal wall caused by habitual sniffing following ear surgery, including a mastoidectomy and soft‐wall reconstruction of the posterior meatal wall.

Study Design:

Retrospective chart review.

Methods:

Sixty‐six ears of 64 patients with acquired cholesteatoma who underwent staged ear surgery with a soft‐wall reconstruction method and mastoidectomy were enrolled; 26 out of 66 ears had habitual sniffing (sniffing positive[+]), underwent TT placement (TT positive[+]) during surgery, and were followed up for at least 8 months after surgery. Sixty‐six ears were divided into sniffing+/TT+, sniffing negative(−)/TT+, and sniffing−/TT− groups, and the degree of the retraction was compared among the three groups.

Results:

The distribution of the grades of the postoperative retraction of the soft posterior meatal wall was almost the same among the three groups (P = .60). Ears with severe retraction were found in 19.2% (5/26), 33.3% (7/21), and 15.8% (3/19) in the sniffing+/TT+ group, sniffing−/TT+ group, and sniffing−/TT− groups, respectively.

Conclusions:

The TT was found to be effective in preventing the development of postoperative retraction of the reconstructed soft posterior meatal wall and tympanic membrane among cases with habitual sniffing. We would suggest that TT placement is recommended during surgery for cholesteatoma if a patient was found to engage in habitual sniffing. Laryngoscope, 2009
Radiotherapy for cutaneous squamous and basal cell carcinomas of the head and neck
Authors: Mendenhall William M. , Amdur Robert J. , Hinerman Russell W. , Cognetta Armand B. , Mendenhall Nancy P.
Published: August 2009

Objectives/Hypothesis:

To discuss the role of radiotherapy (RT) in the treatment of cutaneous squamous and basal cell carcinomas of the head and neck.

Methods:

Review of the pertinent literature.

Results:

The likelihood of cure with a good cosmetic outcome is high for patients with early‐stage cancers treated with definitive RT. The probability of local control is higher for previously untreated cancers and is inversely related to tumor size. The likelihood of cure for patients with perineural invasion (PNI) is related to the presence of symptoms and to the radiographic extent of disease. It decreases as the tumor extends centrally towards the central nervous system. Patients with incidental PNI have a local control rate of 80% to 90% compared with about 50% to 55% for those with clinical PNI. The optimal treatment for patients with clinically positive nodes is surgery and postoperative RT. The likelihood of cure for those with positive parotid nodes is approximately 70% to 80%.

Conclusions:

Definitive RT is useful for treating early‐stage skin cancers where resection would result in a significant cosmetic and/or functional deficit. Postoperative RT is indicated in situations where the probability of residual disease after surgery is high and the chance of successful salvage is modest. Patients with parotid‐area node metastases are optimally treated with surgery and postoperative RT. Laryngoscope, 2009
Phonation threshold pressure estimation using electroglottography in an airflow redirection system
Authors: Rieves Adam L. , Regner Michael F. , Jiang Jack J.
Published: August 2009

Objectives/Hypothesis:

The present study proposed to estimate phonation threshold pressure (PTP) noninvasively using airflow redirection into a pneumatic capacitance system.

Study Design:

Prospective study.

Methods:

Subjects phonated into the device, which interrupts airflow mechanically and redirects the flow into a pneumatic capacitor. Five interruptions were effected per trial. PTP was estimated as the difference between subglottal pressure (SGP) and transglottal pressure at phonation offset. The novel method was tested for consistency in 20 normal human subjects at low (75 dB) and high (85 dB) sound pressure levels. The device was tested for validity on a tracheotomy patient.

Results:

Mean SGP was 9.02 ± 3.27 cm H2O, and mean PTP was 3.68 ± 1.41 cm H2O. Intrasubject coefficient of variation, a measure of intrasubject consistency, was 0.33 ± 0.23. Statistically significant differences existed between the means of SGP but not PTP at 75 dB and 85 dB. The correlation coefficient between accepted and experimental SGP in a tracheotomy patient was 0.947 (P < .001).

Conclusions:

Measurements corresponded well to previously reported values, and intrasubject variability was low, indicating the device was consistent. Testing on a tracheotomy patient demonstrated validity. More research is needed to determine the sensitivity and specificity of the device in differentiating between normal and pathological voices. This device may have clinical application as a noninvasive and reliable method of estimating PTP and indicating that laryngeal health is likely abnormal. Laryngoscope, 2009
The quality of the surgical field during functional endoscopic sinus surgery—The effect of the mode of ventilation—A randomized, prospective, double‐blind study
Authors: Gilbey Peter , Kukuev Yevgeny , Samet Alvin , Talmon Yoav , Ivry Simon
Published: August 2009

Objectives/Hypothesis:

The outcome of functional endoscopic sinus surgery (FESS) depends on a clean surgical field achieved by minimizing intraoperative bleeding. High frequency jet ventilation (HFJV), due to lower airway pressures, offers the benefit of improved venous return, less bleeding, and improved operating conditions. HFJV was compared to intermittent positive pressure ventilation (IPPV) by assessment of surgical conditions and measurement of intraoperative blood loss.

Study Design:

Prospective, randomized, double‐blind study.

Methods:

A total of 22 patients undergoing FESS were randomly assigned to be ventilated during surgery under general anesthesia by either HFJV or IPPV. The quality of the surgical field was assessed and the total blood loss was measured.

Results:

The mean airway pressure was significantly lower in the HFJV group than in the IPPV group (2.42 ± 1.17 and 7.11 ± 0.72, respectively, P < .0001). The total mean loss of blood in the HFJV group was 170 cc and in the IPPV group was 318.18 cc (P = .017). The quality of the surgical field as estimated by the surgeon was significantly better in the HFJV group. The mean point values on the Boezaart et al. scale for the IPPV and HFJV groups were 2.72 ± 0.77 and 1.80 ± 0.686, respectively (P = .012).

Conclusions:

HFJV significantly reduced the amount of intraoperative bleeding and thus significantly improved the quality of the surgical field. It is suggested that increased venous return due to lower intrathoracic pressures resulted in less bleeding and improved operating conditions. HFJV can be effectively used for FESS in order to improve endoscopic view with no adverse effects. Laryngoscope, 2009
Granulation formation following tracheal stenosis stenting: Influence of stent position
Authors: Ko Po‐Jen , Liu Chien‐Ying , Wu Yi‐Chen , Chao Yin‐Kai , Hsieh Ming‐Ju , Wu Ching‐Yang , Wang Chao‐Jan , Liu Yun‐Hen , Liu Hui‐Ping
Published: August 2009

Objectives/Hypothesis:

To determine whether stent‐to‐vocal fold distance influences morbidity following stent placement for tracheal stenosis.

Methods:

Fifty‐five stent procedures (46 Montgomery T‐tube [Boston Medical Products, Westborough, MA] and 9 Dumon stents [Novatech, Grasse, France]) were performed in 40 patients enrolled in this study.

Results:

The most common complication of stenting for tracheal stenosis was granulation (23 procedures, 41.82%). Of 43 procedures where the stent upper edge was located at or below the vocal folds, granulation occurred in 21 procedures (48.84%). Of 12 procedures where the stent edge was located above the vocal fold, granulation occurred in two procedures, or 16.67% (odds ratio = 4.773, P = .0458, χ2 test). Among patients in whom the stent edge was located at or below the vocal folds, the granulation complication rate was higher in those with a stent‐to‐vocal fold distance of <10 mm. Multivariate analysis revealed that the stent‐to‐vocal fold distance independently predicted granulation formation; an inverse correlation was identified between stent‐to‐vocal fold distance and granulation severity (n = 43, r = −.501, P = .0006; Spearman ranking test). Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis further demonstrated that a stent‐to‐vocal fold distance cutoff value between 9.5 and 11 mm had the best accuracy in predicting granulation formation.

Conclusions:

A stent‐to‐vocal fold distance of 10 mm was found to be a critical distance for discriminating granulation formation. Optimal stent‐to‐vocal fold distance should routinely be evaluated before stent placement. Laryngoscope, 2009
Relocation pharyngoplasty for obstructive sleep apnea
Authors: Li Hsueh‐Yu , Lee Li‐Ang
Published: August 2009

Objectives/Hypothesis:

To investigate the efficacy of relocation pharyngoplasty as a surgical technique both to enlarge pharyngeal airspace and to decrease pharyngeal collapse in the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).

Study Design:

Prospective comparative study performed in a tertiary referred sleep center.

Methods:

Ten adult male OSA patients (median age of 38 years, median apnea‐hypopnea index [AHI] of 41.6 events/hour, and median body mass index of 25.8 kg/m2) with favorable oropharyngeal structure were enrolled. Principal procedures of the relocation pharyngoplasty include tonsillectomy, removal of supratonsillar mucosa and adipose tissue, splinting the lateral pharyngeal wall by suturing the placating superior pharyngeal constrictor muscle to the anterior pillar, and advancing the soft palate by suturing the posterior pillar flap cephalad laterally to the supratonsillar fossa.

Results:

No patients experienced swallowing disturbance or change of voice after 3 months postoperatively. The median time for patients to return to normal nourishment was 15 days. Six months after the operation, there were statistically significant improvements in snoring (P = .005) and daytime sleepiness (P = .008). Repeated polysomnography revealed significant improvement in AHI (P = .005) and rapid eye movement period (P = .037). Furthermore, reduction in AHI following relocation pharyngoplasty was found in all patients.

Conclusions:

In selected patients, relocation pharyngoplasty by advancing the soft palate and splinting the lateral pharyngeal wall obtains significant improvement in subjective snoring and daytime sleepiness, as well as objective adverse sleep respiratory events and sleep architecture, while retaining normal pharyngeal function. Laryngoscope, 2009
Vascularization in Bone Tissue Engineering: Physiology, Current Strategies, Major Hurdles and Future Challenges
Authors: Santos Marina I. , Reis Rui L.
Published: August 2009

The lack of a functional vascular supply has, to a large extent, hampered the whole range of clinical applications of ‘successful’ laboratory‐based bone tissue engineering strategies. To the present, grafts have been dependent on post‐implant vascularization, which jeopardizes graft integration and often leads to its failure. For this reason, the development of strategies that could effectively induce the establishment of a microcirculation in the engineered constructs has become a major goal for the tissue engineering research community. This review addresses the role and importance of the development of a vascular network in bone tissue engineering and provides an overview of the most up to date research efforts to develop such a network.

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Folate‐Conjugated Micelles and Their Folate‐Receptor‐Mediated Endocytosis
Authors: Lu Tiancheng , Sun Jing , Chen Xuexi , Zhang Peibiao , Jing Xiabin
Published: August 2009

A folate‐conjugated copolymer PEG‐PLA‐PLL/folate was synthesized and mixed with pure PEG‐PLA‐PLL and a fluorescent model drug mFITC to prepare folate‐conjugated micelles. The distribution of micelles was studied on cancer‐cell‐bearing mice via frozen slicing. The results show that mFITC is successfully encapsulated into folate(+) and folate(−)micelles; PEG‐PLA‐PLL micelles the latter can be internalized by both HeLa and CHO cells without selectivity due to their cationic surface charges, while folate(+)micelles exhibit more preferential endocytosis by HeLa cells than by CHO cells. The folate(−)micelles showed retention in both organs and tumors. The folate(+)micelles are a promising active targeting drug delivery system for FR over‐expressing cells and they accumulate in tumor beds.

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Two‐machine flow shop scheduling with common due window to minimize weighted number of early and tardy jobs
Authors: Yeung Wing‐Kwan , Oğuz Ceyda , Cheng Tai‐Chiu Edwin
Published: August 2009

This article studies two due window scheduling problems to minimize the weighted number of early and tardy jobs in a two‐machine flow shop, where the window size is externally determined. These new scheduling models have many practical applications in real life. However, results on these problems have rarely appeared in the literature because of a lack of structural and optimality properties for solving them. In this article, we derive several dominance properties and theorems, including elimination rules and sequencing rules based on Johnsos order, lower bounds on the penalty, and upper bounds on the window location, which help to significantly trim the search space for the problems. We further show that the problems are NP‐hard in the ordinary sense only. We finally develop efficient pseudopolynomial dynamic programming algorithms for solving the problems. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Naval Research Logistics, 2009
Approximation algorithms for general one‐warehouse multi‐retailer systems
Authors: Shen Zuo‐Jun Max , Shu Jia , Simchi‐Levi David , Teo Chung‐Piaw , Zhang Jiawei
Published: August 2009

Logistical planning problems are complicated in practice because planners have to deal with the challenges of demand planning and supply replenishment, while taking into account the issues of (i) inventory perishability and storage charges, (ii) management of backlog and/or lost sales, and (iii) cost saving opportunities due to economies of scale in order replenishment and transportation. It is therefore not surprising that many logistical planning problems are computationally difficult, and finding a good solution to these problems necessitates the development of many ad hoc algorithmic procedures to address various features of the planning problems.

In this article, we identify simple conditions and structural properties associated with these logistical planning problems in which the warehouse is managed as a cross‐docking facility. Despite the nonlinear cost structures in the problems, we show that a solution that is within ε‐optimality can be obtained by solving a related piece‐wise linear concave cost multi‐commodity network flow problem. An immediate consequence of this result is that certain classes of logistical planning problems can be approximated by a factor of (1 + ε) in polynomial time. This significantly improves upon the results found in literature for these classes of problems. We also show that the piece‐wise linear concave cost network flow problem can be approximated to within a logarithmic factor via a large scale linear programming relaxation. We use polymatroidal constraints to capture the piece‐wise concavity feature of the cost functions. This gives rise to a unified and generic LP‐based approach for a large class of complicated logistical planning problems. © 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Naval Research Logistics, 2009
Kronecker product approximation preconditioners for convection–diffusion model problems
Authors: Xiang Hua , Grigori Laura
Published: August 2009

We consider the iterative solution of linear systems arising from four convection–diffusion model problems: scalar convection–diffusion problem, Stokes problem, Oseen problem and Navier–Stokes problem. We design preconditioners for these model problems that are based on Kronecker product approximations (KPAs). For this we first identify explicit Kronecker product structure of the coefficient matrices, in particular for the convection term. For the latter three model cases, the coefficient matrices have a 2 × 2 block structure, where each block is a Kronecker product or a summation of several Kronecker products. We then use this
structure to design a block diagonal preconditioner, a block triangular preconditioner and a constraint preconditioner. Numerical experiments show the efficiency of the three KPA preconditioners, and in particular of the constraint preconditioner that usually outperforms the other two. This can be explained by the relationship that exists between these three preconditioners: the constraint preconditioner can be regarded as a modification of the block triangular preconditioner, which at its turn is a modification of the block diagonal preconditioner based on the cell Reynolds number. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A G space theory and a weakened weak (W2) form for a unified formulation of compatible and incompatible methods: Part I theory
Authors: Liu G. R.
Published: August 2009

This paper introduces a G space theory and a weakened weak form (W2) using the generalized gradient smoothing technique for a unified formulation of a wide class of compatible and incompatible methods. The W2 formulation works for both finite element method settings and mesh‐free settings, and W2 models can have special properties including softened behavior, upper bounds and ultra accuracy. Part I of this paper focuses on the theory and fundamentals for W2 formulations. A normed G space is first defined to include both continuous and discontinuous functions allowing the use of much more types of methods/techniques to create shape functions for numerical models. Important properties and a set of useful inequalities for G spaces are then proven in the theory and analyzed in detail. These properties ensure that a numerical method developed based on the W2 formulation will be spatially stable and convergent to the exact solutions, as long as the physical problem is well posed. The theory is applicable to any problems to which the standard weak formulation is applicable, and can offer numerical solutions with special properties including ‘close‐to‐exact’ stiffness, upper bounds and ultra accuracy. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A G space theory and a weakened weak (W2) form for a unified formulation of compatible and incompatible methods: Part II applications to solid mechanics problems
Authors: Liu G. R.
Published: August 2009

In part I of this paper, we have established the G space theory and fundamentals for W2 formulation. Part II focuses on the applications of the G space theory to formulate W2 models for solid mechanics problems. We first define a bilinear form, prove some of the important properties, and prove that the W2 formulation will be spatially stable, and convergent to exact solutions. We then present examples of some of the possible W2 models including the SFEM, NS‐FEM, ES‐FEM, NS‐PIM, ES‐PIM, and CS‐PIM. We show the major properties of these models: (1) they are variationally consistent in a conventional sense, if the solution is sought in a proper H space (compatible cases); (2) They pass the standard patch test when the solution is sought in a proper G space with discontinuous functions (incompatible cases); (3) the stiffness of the discretized model is reduced compared with the finite element method (FEM) model and possibly to the exact model, allowing us to obtain upper bound solutions with respect to both the FEM and the exact solutions and (4) the W2 models are less sensitive to the quality of the mesh, and triangular meshes can be used without any accuracy problems. These properties and theories have been confirmed numerically via examples solved using a number of W2 models including compatible and incompatible cases. We shall see that the G space theory and the W2 forms can formulate a variety of stable and convergent numerical methods with the FEM as one special case. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Occupational therapists use of cognitive interventions for clients with Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Robert Alexandra , Gélinas Isabelle , Mazer Barbara
Published: August 2009

The aim of this study was to establish a profile of occupational therapy practice for cognitive interventions for clients with Alzheimer's disease (AD) in an urban setting. Seventy‐four occupational therapists working with older adults with AD in diverse settings in the city of Montreal were randomly selected and were sent a self‐administered questionnaire by mail. Sixty‐five (87.8%) therapists responded. Findings indicated that 52.3% of occupational therapists are performing cognitive interventions with persons with AD. Of those, 82.4% report using cognitive rehabilitation, 61.8% using cognitive stimulation and 50.0% using cognitive training. Intervention use varied across settings and differed according to severity of AD. The sessions are usually provided individually and often include the client's caregiver. Generalizability of the results is limited to urban areas, and possible differences in service provision should be taken into consideration. Further research is needed to measure the effectiveness of these interventions provided by occupational therapists and to compare occupational therapy practices in urban and rural areas. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Citrulline as a marker for chemotherapy induced mucosal barrier injury in pediatric patients
Authors: van Vliet Michel J. , Tissing Wim J.E. , Rings Edmond H.H.M. , Koetse Harma A. , Stellaard Frans , Kamps Willem A. , de Bont Eveline S.J.M.
Published: August 2009

Background

The currently used National Cancer Institute (NCI) adverse events criteria for mucosal barrier injury (MBI) are insufficient for use in children. We searched for objective, easily measurable indicators for MBI in children with cancer.

Purpose

In children with acute myeloid leukemia, various MBI‐related clinical and laboratory tests were investigated, reflecting clinical severity (NCI symptomatic adverse events criteria (gold standard), daily gut score (DGS)), inflammation (plasma and fecal interleukin‐8 (IL‐8), fecal calprotectin), enterocytic loss (plasma citrulline, ratio fecal human DNA/total DNA) and intestinal permeability (sugar absorption tests).

Results

Intestinal MBI as detected by the NCI adverse events criteria was found in 55% of chemotherapy cycles, correlating well with the continuous DGS (n = 55, rho = 0.581; P < 0.001). Intestinal cell loss as measured by the ratio fecal human DNA/total DNA and plasma citrulline correlated well with both NCI criteria (n = 61, rho = 0.357, P = 0.005 resp. n = 58, rho = −0.482; P < 0.001) and DGS (n = 54, rho = 0.352, P = 0.009 resp. n = 55, rho = −0.625; P < 0.001). Plasma IL‐8 correlated strongly to plasma citrulline (n = 46, rho = −0.627; P < 0.001).

Conclusions

MBI was reflected by parameters indicating inflammation (IL‐8) and cell loss (plasma citrulline, ratio fecal human DNA/total DNA). We conclude that plasma citrulline might be a good parameter for MBI. Further studies are needed to show whether plasma citrulline can be used as a marker for MBI in future research. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009; 53:1188–1194. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.