bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Single-Crystal-to-Single-Crystal Transformation from δ-(BEDT-TTF)4[OsNOCl5]1.33(C6H5NO2)0.67 to β"-(BEDT-TTF)3[OsNOCl5]
Authors: Zorina Leokadiya , Simonov Sergey , Canadell Enric , Shibaeva Rimma
Published: June 2012

We report on the single-crystal-to-single-crystal transformation occurring over time in a layered organic molecular conductor based on BEDT-TTF. The process is connected with removal of solvent molecules from the complex anion layer resulting in concomitant partial irreversible conversion of the δ-(BEDT-TTF)4[OsNOCl5]1.33(C6H5NO2)0.67 structure to the β"-(BEDT-TTF)3[OsNOCl5] structure. Along with symmetry lowering from I2/a to Р, huge, drastic changes in the conducting BEDT-TTF layer as well as in the anion arrangement are observed, meanwhile crystallinity of the sample is retained. Coexistence of two phases, parent δ and daughter β" in the same crystal helps in the study of their mutual orientation as well as to formulate a mechanism for the structural transformation.
By-Passing Large Screening Experiments Using Sequencing as a Tool to Identify scFv Fragments Targeting Atherosclerotic Lesions in a Novel In Vivo Phage Display Selection
Authors: Deramchia Kamel , Jacobin-Valat Marie-Josee , Laroche-Traineau Jeanny , Bonetto Stephane , Sanchez Stephane , Dos Santos Pierre , Massot Philippe , Franconi Jean-Michel , Martineau Pierre , Clofent-Sanchez Gisele
Published: June 2012

Atherosclerosis is a chronic, progressive inflammatory disease that may develop into vulnerable lesions leading to thrombosis. To interrogate the molecular components involved in this process, single-chain variable fragments (scFvs) from a semi-synthetic human antibody library were selected on the lesions induced in a rabbit model of atherosclerosis after two rounds of in vivo phage display. Homing Phage-scFvs were isolated from (1) the injured endothelium, (2) the underlying lesional tissue and (3) the cells within the intima. Clones selected on the basis of their redundancy or the presence of key amino acids, as determined by comparing the distribution between the native and the selected libraries, were produced in soluble form, and seven scFvs were shown to specifically target the endothelial cell surface and inflamed intima-related regions of rabbit tissue sections by immunohistology approaches. The staining patterns differed depending on the scFv compartment of origin. This study demonstrates that large-scale scFv binding assays can be replaced by a sequence-based selection of best clones, paving the way for easier use of antibody libraries in in vivo biopanning experiments. Future investigations will be aimed at characterizing the scFv/target couples by mass spectrometry to set the stage for more accurate diagnostic of atherosclerosis and development of therapeutic strategies.
A Novel Chemometric Method for the Prediction of Human Oral Bioavailability
Authors: Xu Xue , Zhang Wuxia , Huang Chao , Li Yan , Yu Hua , Wang Yonghua , Duan Jinyou , Ling Yang
Published: June 2012

Orally administered drugs must overcome several barriers before reaching their target site. Such barriers depend largely upon specific membrane transport systems and intracellular drug-metabolizing enzymes. For the first time, the P-glycoprotein (P-gp) and cytochrome P450s, the main line of defense by limiting the oral bioavailability (OB) of drugs, were brought into construction of QSAR modeling for human OB based on 805 structurally diverse drug and drug-like molecules. The linear (multiple linear regression: MLR, and partial least squares regression: PLS) and nonlinear (support-vector machine regression: SVR) methods are used to construct the models with their predictivity verified with five-fold cross-validation and independent external tests. The performance of SVR is slightly better than that of MLR and PLS, as indicated by its determination coefficient (R2) of 0.80 and standard error of estimate (SEE) of 0.31 for test sets. For the MLR and PLS, they are relatively weak, showing prediction abilities of 0.60 and 0.64 for the training set with SEE of 0.40 and 0.31, respectively. Our study indicates that the MLR, PLS and SVR-based in silico models have good potential in facilitating the prediction of oral bioavailability and can be applied in future drug design.
3-(1H-Indol-3-yl)-4-(morpholin-4-yl)cyclobut-3-ene-1,2-dione
Authors: Maiwald Franziska , Jones Peter G. , Aref Mahmoud , Böttcher Marina , Karwehl Marc , Schniers Armin , Stanke Carmen , Grünefeld Johann
Published: June 2012

3-(1H-Indol-3-yl)-4-(morpholin-4-yl)cyclobut-3-ene-1,2-dione was obtained in good yields (72–82%) by nucleophilic substitution of 3-chloro-4-(1H-indol-3-yl)cyclobut-3-ene-1,2-dione with morpholine.
4-{[(4-Chlorophenyl)imino]methyl}-3-hydroxyphenyl 4-(Hexadecanoyloxy)benzoate
Authors: Ha Sie-Tiong , Yeap Guan-Yeow , Boey Peng-Lim
Published: June 2012

A new Schiff base ester, 4-{[(4-chlorophenyl)imino]methyl}-3-hydroxyphenyl 4-(hexadecanoyloxy)benzoate was synthesized and its IR, 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR and MS spectroscopic data are presented.
New Briarane Diterpenoids from the Gorgonian Coral Junceella juncea
Authors: Chang Jiun-Yang , Liaw Chia-Ching , Fazary Ahmed Eid , Hwang Tsong-Long , Shen Ya-Ching
Published: June 2012

Chemical investigation of Junceella juncea has resulted in the isolation of three new briaranes designated juncenolides M–O (1–3). The structures of these compounds were determined by spectroscopic analysis including 2D-NMR (COSY, HMBC and NOESY) and HRMS. Compound 1 is a new chlorinated briarane while compound 3 contains a rare methyl ester at C-16. The anti-inflammatory activities tested on superoxide anion generation and elastase release by human neutrophils in response to FMLP/CB were evaluated.
In Vitro, in Situ and in Vivo Studies on the Anticandidal Activity of Cassia fistula Seed Extract
Authors: Jothy Subramanion L. , Zakariah Zuraini , Chen Yeng , Sasidharan Sreenivasan
Published: June 2012

Cassia fistula seeds have many therapeutic uses in traditional medicine practice. The present investigation was undertaken to demonstrate the anticandidal activity of the C. fistula seed extract at ultra-structural level through transmission electron microscope (TEM) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) observations. The effect of seed extract on the growth profile of the Candida albicans was examined via time-kill assays and in vivo efficacy of the extract was tested in an animal model. In addition, the anticandidal effect of seed extract was further evaluated by microscopic observations using SEM and TEM to determine any major alterations in the ultrastructure of C. albicans. The complete inhibition of C. albicans growth was shown by C. fistula seed extract at 6.25 mg/mL concentration. The time-kill assay suggested that C. fistula seed extract had completely inhibited the growth of C. albicans and also exhibited prolonged anti-yeast activity. The SEM and TEM observations carried out to distinguish the metamorphosis in the morphology of control and C. fistula seed extract-treated C. albicans cells revealed the notable effect on the outer cell wall and cytoplasmic content of the C. albicans and complete collapse of yeast cell exposed to seed extract at concentration 6.25 mg/mL at 36 h. The in vitro time-kill study performed using the leaf extract at 1/2, 1 or 2 times of the MIC significantly inhibited the yeast growth with a noticeable drop in optical density (OD) of yeast culture, thus confirming the fungicidal effect of the extract on C. albicans. In addition, in vivo antifungal activity studies on candidiasis in mice showed a 6-fold decrease in C. albicans in kidneys and blood samples in the groups of animals treated with the extract (2.5 g/kg body weight). The results suggested that the C. fistula seed extract possessed good anticandidal activity and is a potential candidate for the development of anticandidal agents.
The Impact of Ramadan Observance upon Athletic Performance
Authors: Shephard Roy J.
Published: June 2012

Ramadan observance requires a total abstention from food and drink from sunrise to sunset for a period of one month. Such intermittent fasting has only minor effects upon the overall nutrition and physiological responses of the general sedentary population. Larger meals are consumed at night and in the early morning. Body mass usually remains unchanged, the total energy intake remains roughly constant, and there is little alteration in the relative consumption of protein, fats and carbohydrates. However, Ramadan observance may be of greater consequence for the training and performance of the competitive athlete, particularly when the festival is celebrated in the hotter part of the year and daylight hours are long, as is the case for the 2012 Summer Olympic Games in London, England. The normal sleeping time then tends to be shortened, and blood sugar and tissue hydration decrease progressively throughout the hours of daylight. Some limitation of anaerobic effort, endurance performance and muscle strength might be anticipated from the decrease in muscle glycogen and body fluid reserves, and a reduced blood glucose may cause a depressed mood state, an increased perception of effort, and poorer team work. This review considers empirical data on the extent of such changes, and their likely effect upon anaerobic, aerobic and muscular performance, suggesting potential nutritional and behavioral tactics for minimizing such effects in the Muslim competitor.
Analysis of the Air Flow Generated by an Air-Assisted Sprayer Equipped with Two Axial Fans Using a 3D Sonic Anemometer
Authors: García-Ramos F. Javier , Vidal Mariano , Boné Antonio , Malón Hugo , Aguirre Javier
Published: June 2012

The flow of air generated by a new design of air assisted sprayer equipped with two axial fans of reversed rotation was analyzed. For this goal, a 3D sonic anemometer has been used (accuracy: 1.5%; measurement range: 0 to 45 m/s). The study was divided into a static test and a dynamic test. During the static test, the air velocity in the working vicinity of the sprayer was measured considering the following machine configurations: (1) one activated fan regulated at three air flows (machine working as a traditional sprayer); (2) two activated fans regulated at three air flows for each fan. In the static test 72 measurement points were considered. The location of the measurement points was as follow: left and right sides of the sprayer; three sections of measurement (A, B and C); three measurement distances from the shaft of the machine (1.5 m, 2.5 m and 3.5 m); and four measurement heights (1 m, 2 m, 3 m and 4 m). The static test results have shown significant differences in the module and the vertical angle of the air velocity vector in function of the regulations of the sprayer. In the dynamic test, the air velocity was measured at 2.5 m from the axis of the sprayer considering four measurement heights (1 m, 2 m, 3 m and 4 m). In this test, the sprayer regulations were: one or two activated fans; one air flow for each fan; forward speed of 2.8 km/h. The use of one fan (back) or two fans (back and front) produced significant differences on the duration of the presence of wind in the measurement point and on the direction of the air velocity vector. The module of the air velocity vector was not affected by the number of activated fans.
An Intelligent Sensor Array Distributed System for Vibration Analysis and Acoustic Noise Characterization of a Linear Switched Reluctance Actuator
Authors: Salvado José , Espírito-Santo António , Calado Maria
Published: June 2012

This paper proposes a distributed system for analysis and monitoring (DSAM) of vibrations and acoustic noise, which consists of an array of intelligent modules, sensor modules, communication bus and a host PC acting as data center. The main advantages of the DSAM are its modularity, scalability, and flexibility for use of different type of sensors/transducers, with analog or digital outputs, and for signals of different nature. Its final cost is also significantly lower than other available commercial solutions. The system is reconfigurable, can operate either with synchronous or asynchronous modes, with programmable sampling frequencies, 8-bit or 12-bit resolution and a memory buffer of 15 kbyte. It allows real-time data-acquisition for signals of different nature, in applications that require a large number of sensors, thus it is suited for monitoring of vibrations in Linear Switched Reluctance Actuators (LSRAs). The acquired data allows the full characterization of the LSRA in terms of its response to vibrations of structural origins, and the vibrations and acoustic noise emitted under normal operation. The DSAM can also be used for electrical machine condition monitoring, machine fault diagnosis, structural characterization and monitoring, among other applications.
An Accurately Controlled Antagonistic Shape Memory Alloy Actuator with Self-Sensing
Authors: Wang Tian-Miao , Shi Zhen-Yun , Liu Da , Ma Chen , Zhang Zhen-Hua
Published: June 2012

With the progress of miniaturization, shape memory alloy (SMA) actuators exhibit high energy density, self-sensing ability and ease of fabrication, which make them well suited for practical applications. This paper presents a self-sensing controlled actuator drive that was designed using antagonistic pairs of SMA wires. Under a certain pre-strain and duty cycle, the stress between two wires becomes constant. Meanwhile, the strain to resistance curve can minimize the hysteresis gap between the heating and the cooling paths. The curves of both wires are then modeled by fitting polynomials such that the measured resistance can be used directly to determine the difference between the testing values and the target strain. The hysteresis model of strains to duty cycle difference has been used as compensation. Accurate control is demonstrated through step response and sinusoidal tracking. The experimental results show that, under a combination control program, the root-mean-square error can be reduced to 1.093%. The limited bandwidth of the frequency is estimated to be 0.15 Hz. Two sets of instruments with three degrees of freedom are illustrated to show how this type actuator could be potentially implemented.
Definition of Linear Color Models in the RGB Vector Color Space to Detect Red Peaches in Orchard Images Taken under Natural Illumination
Authors: Teixidó Mercè , Font Davinia , Pallejà Tomàs , Tresanchez Marcel , Nogués Miquel , Palacín Jordi
Published: June 2012

This work proposes the detection of red peaches in orchard images based on the definition of different linear color models in the RGB vector color space. The classification and segmentation of the pixels of the image is then performed by comparing the color distance from each pixel to the different previously defined linear color models. The methodology proposed has been tested with images obtained in a real orchard under natural light. The peach variety in the orchard was the paraguayo (Prunus persica var. platycarpa) peach with red skin. The segmentation results showed that the area of the red peaches in the images was detected with an average error of 11.6%; 19.7% in the case of bright illumination; 8.2% in the case of low illumination; 8.6% for occlusion up to 33%; 12.2% in the case of occlusion between 34 and 66%; and 23% for occlusion above 66%. Finally, a methodology was proposed to estimate the diameter of the fruits based on an ellipsoidal fitting. A first diameter was obtained by using all the contour pixels and a second diameter was obtained by rejecting some pixels of the contour. This approach enables a rough estimate of the fruit occlusion percentage range by comparing the two diameter estimates.
Managing RFID Sensors Networks with a General Purpose RFID Middleware
Authors: Abad Ismael , Cerrada Carlos , Cerrada Jose A. , Heradio Rubén , Valero Enrique
Published: June 2012

RFID middleware is anticipated to one of the main research areas in the field of RFID applications in the near future. The Data EPC Acquisition System (DEPCAS) is an original proposal designed by our group to transfer and apply fundamental ideas from System and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems into the areas of RFID acquisition, processing and distribution systems. In this paper we focus on how to organize and manage generic RFID sensors (edge readers, readers, PLCs, etc…) inside the DEPCAS middleware. We denote by RFID Sensors Networks Management (RSNM) this part of DEPCAS, which is built on top of two new concepts introduced and developed in this work: MARC (Minimum Access Reader Command) and RRTL (RFID Reader Topology Language). MARC is an abstraction layer used to hide heterogeneous devices inside a homogeneous acquisition network. RRTL is a language to define RFID Reader networks and to describe the relationship between them (concentrator, peer to peer, master/submaster).
PAU-SA: A Synthetic Aperture Interferometric Radiometer Test Bed for Potential Improvements in Future Missions
Authors: Ramos-Perez Isaac , Camps Adriano , Bosch-Lluis Xavi , Rodriguez-Alvarez Nereida , Valencia-Domènech Enric , Park Hyuk , Forte Giuseppe , Vall-llosera Merce
Published: June 2012

The Soil Moisture and Ocean Salinity (SMOS) mission is an Earth Explorer Opportunity mission from the European Space Agency (ESA). Its goal is to produce global maps of soil moisture and ocean salinity using the Microwave Imaging Radiometer by Aperture Synthesis (MIRAS). The purpose of the Passive Advanced Unit Synthetic Aperture (PAU-SA) instrument is to study and test some potential improvements that could eventually be implemented in future missions using interferometric radiometers such as the Geoestacionary Atmosferic Sounder (GAS), the Precipitation and All-weather Temperature and Humidity (PATH) and the Geostationary Interferometric Microwave Sounder (GIMS). Both MIRAS and PAU-SA are Y-shaped arrays with uniformly distributed antennas, but the receiver topology and the processing unit are quite different. The purpose of this work is to identify the elements in the MIRAS’s design susceptible of improvement and apply them in the PAU-SA instrument demonstrator, to test them in view of these future interferometric radiometer missions.
Limitations of Nuclear Power as a Sustainable Energy Source
Authors: Pearce Joshua M.
Published: June 2012

This paper provides a review and analysis of the challenges that nuclear power must overcome in order to be considered sustainable. The results make it clear that not only do innovative technical solutions need to be generated for the fundamental inherent environmental burdens of nuclear energy technology, but the nuclear industry must also address difficult issues of equity both in the present and for future generations. The results show that if the concept of just sustainability is applied to the nuclear energy sector a global large-scale sustainable nuclear energy system to replace fossil fuel combustion requires the following: (i) a radical improvement in greenhouse gas emissions intensity by improved technology and efficiency through the entire life cycle to prevent energy cannibalism during rapid growth; (ii) the elimination of nuclear insecurity to reduce the risks associated with nuclear power so that the free market can indemnify it without substantial public nuclear energy insurance subsidies; (iii) the elimination of radioactive waste at the end of life and minimization of environmental impact during mining and operations; and (iv) the nuclear industry must regain public trust or face obsolescence as a swarm of renewable energy technologies quickly improve both technical and economic performance.
In This Issue of Current Oncology
Authors: Chasen M.
Published: June 2012

In the November 2010 issue of Current Oncology, an editorial by Dr. David Benatar appeared, titled “Should there be a legal right to die?” In his editorial, Dr. Benatar concluded that “it is an indecent imposition on people—an unconscionable violation of their liberty—to force them to endure a life that they have reasonably judged to be unacceptable [...]
Erratum: Legalizing Euthanasia or Assisted Suicide: The Illusion of Safeguards and Controls
Authors: Pereira J.
Published: June 2012

The version of this article as initially published was included under the Biomedical Ethics section and not the Opinions section as intended [...]
Corrigendum: A Personalized Approach to Treatment: Use of egfr Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors for the Treatment of Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer in Canada
Authors: Hirsh V. , Melosky B. , Goss G. , Morris D. , Morzycki W.
Published: June 2012

In the article’s Acknowledgments, the company that Anna Christofides represents should have been listed as New Evidence [...]
Humps and Bumps: Feel Them ... Like It or Lump It
Authors: Touyz Louis Z.G.
Published: June 2012

Among the most prevalent cancers, only five— breast cancer, 3rd most prevalent; melanoma, 7th; thyroid, 8th; oral cancers, 13th; testis, 23rd (1)—are easily detectable by external palpation of accessible organs (breasts, thyroid, mouth, skin, and testes) and do not require some form of corporeal invasion for assessment. [...]
Outcomes of Surveillance for Contralateral Breast Cancer in Patients Less than Age 60 at the Time of Initial Diagnosis
Authors: Weinstock C. , Bigenwald R. , Hochman T. , Sun P. , Narod S.A. , Warner E.
Published: June 2012

Background: After an initial diagnosis of breast cancer, the risk of contralateral breast cancer is approximately 0.5% per year. Annual mammography is recommended to identify local recurrences and contralateral new primaries. Because the sensitivity of mammography tends to be lower in younger women, we conducted a retrospective review of the method of detection and pathologic stage of metachronous contralateral primary breast cancers according to age at diagnosis in a cohort of breast cancer patients. Methods: The Henrietta Banting Database contains information on cases of breast cancer diagnosed at Women’s College Hospital from 1987 to 2004. From among 1992 women in the database, 71 patients were identified who were initially diagnosed before age 60 and who subsequently developed a contralateral breast cancer. Medical records were obtained for 53 of the 71 patients. Results: Of the 53 contralateral cancers, 33 (62%) were detected by mammography, including 4 in 16 patients (25%) diagnosed before age 50 and 29 in 37 patients (78%) diagnosed at age 50 or older (p ≤ 0.001). Conclusions: Mammography has poor sensitivity for the surveillance of contralateral breast cancer in early-onset breast cancer patients. Other imaging modalities should be evaluated in this setting.
Exercise in Clinical Cancer Care: A Call to Action and Program Development Description
Authors: Mina D. Santa , Alibhai S.M.H. , Matthew A.G. , Guglietti C.L. , Steele J. , Trachtenberg J. , Ritvo P.G.
Published: June 2012

A large and convincing body of evidence demonstrates the benefits of exercise for cancer survivors during and after treatment. Based on that literature, more cancer survivors should be offered exercise support and programming. Unfortunately, exercise programs remain an exception rather than the norm in cancer care. Not surprisingly, common barriers to the implementation of exercise programs in oncology include limited resources, expertise, and awareness of benefits on the part of patients and clinicians. To improve the accessibility and cost-effectiveness of cancer exercise programs, one proposed strategy is to combine the resources of hospital and community-based programs with home-based exercise instruction. The present paper highlights current literature regarding exercise programming for cancer survivors, describes the development of an exercise program for cancer patients in Toronto, Canada, and offers experiential insights into the integration of exercise into oncologic care.
Choices for Young Women at Intermediate Risk of Breast Cancer
Authors: Iqbal J. , Narod S.A.
Published: June 2012

Women with an inherited mutation in BRCA1 or BRCA2 have a lifetime risk of breast cancer that ap- proaches 80% [...]
Lymphoepithelioma-Like Carcinoma of the Breast: A Diagnostic and Therapeutic Challenge
Authors: Dinniwell R. , Hanna W.M. , Mashhour M. , Saad R.S. , Czarnota G.J.
Published: June 2012

We present a patient with lymphoepithelioma-like carcinoma (LELC) of the breast whose diagnosis is illustrative of the pathology nuances that must be taken into account to successfully reach correct identification of the disease. We also present an overview of our patient’s proposed treatment in the context of 16 other reported LELC cases. Although LELC cases are rare, a sufficient number have been reported to discern the natural history of this pathologic entity and to undertake a review of those cases and of the application of oncologic first principles in their management. Given the potential for locoregional spread and distant metastases in LELC, adjuvant therapy has a role in the treatment of this entity.
Comparison of International Breast Cancer Guidelines: Are We Globally Consistent? Cancer Guideline AGREEment
Authors: Hogeveen S.E. , Han D. , Trudeau–Tavara S. , Buck J. , Brezden–Masley C.B. , Quan M.L. , Simmons C.E.
Published: June 2012

Background: Evidence-based guidelines are used in health care systems throughout the world to aid in treatment decisions and to ensure quality and consistency in patient care. In breast oncology, guidelines for care are published by several internationally recognized organizations, including those from the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. The present study compared clinical breast cancer guidelines from the American Society of Clinical Oncology (asco, United States), Cancer Care Ontario (cco, Canada), and the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (nice, United Kingdom) to determine the quality and consistency of content across international organizations. Methods: We searched for breast cancer guidelines published by asco, cco, and nice. Guidelines on the same theme were identified across organizations and appraised by 4 independent reviewers using the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation (agree) instrument. Content of each guideline was also scored for consistency in overall recommendations across organizations and for consistency in cited evidence. Results: The quality of breast cancer guidelines produced by the targeted organizations was consistently good in the areas of Scope and Purpose, Rigor of Development, and Clarity and Presentation, but variable in the domains of Stakeholder Involvement, Applicability, and Editorial Independence. The content of the guidelines varied slightly in the strength of their recommendations. Conclusions: Our review demonstrated consistency in quality and content for breast cancer practice guidelines published by various organizations. Future guidelines developed by these organizations should focus on how to implement and measure uptake of a guideline.
Specialists’ Perceptions of Hereditary Colorectal Cancer Screening in Newfoundland and Labrador
Authors: MacEachern J. , Mathews M. , Green J. , Pullman D.
Published: June 2012

Purpose: Colorectal cancer (crc) screening is particularly valuable in Newfoundland and Labrador (NL), where a substantial proportion of crc cases have a hereditary link. We examined the perceptions of gastroenterologists and general surgeons with respect to screening practices for patients with hereditary crc. Methods: We surveyed all gastroenterologists and general surgeons in NL to determine demographic and professional practice characteristics and screening knowledge, practices, and attitudes for four groups of patients with hereditary crc. Results: Of the 43 eligible physicians, 36 (83.7%) responded. Most of the physicians surveyed knew the correct age to start screening, preferred screening by colonoscopy, had a systematic means in their own practice of prioritizing patients for screening, and felt that family doctors or patients (or both) should be responsible for monitoring screening compliance. Most physicians reported that patients with hereditary nonpolyposis crc and familial adenomatous polyposis waited 3 months for screening; patients with a family history of crc or adenomatous polyp waited 6 months or longer. Although respondents agreed on the need for a province-wide crc registry [4.36 on a 5-point Likert scale (1 = strongly disagree; 5 = strongly agree)], they disagreed that wait times were reasonable (2.81) and that other health professionals should perform colonoscopies (2.86). They were equivocal about the need for centralized bookings (3.25) and about whether genetic testing is useful for prioritizing patients (3.25). Conclusions: Gastroenterologists and general surgeons in NL were knowledgeable about screening, but had varying opinions about individual roles in screening, wait times, and the means for prioritizing and providing screening for patients with hereditary crc.
Caught in the Middle: Case Study of a Brachial (Sentry) Lymph Node Recurrence after Resection and Locoregional Breast Radiotherapy
Authors: Lee G. , Clemons M. , Cho J. , Czarnota G.J. , Dinniwell R.
Published: June 2012

To reduce local recurrence, adjuvant locoregional radiotherapy is given routinely for post-mastectomy breast patients with 4 or more positive lymph nodes. Most institutions adopt a 3- or 4-field radiotherapy technique, in which the field and shielding placements are informed by bony anatomic landmarks viewed on digitally reconstructed radiographs.
Moderators of Psychological Recovery from Benign Cancer Screening Results
Authors: Pelletier M. , Knäuper B. , Loiselle C.G. , Perreault R. , Mizrahi C. , Dubé L.
Published: June 2012

Objective: The sudden confrontation of a potential health threat such as cancer, even after the diagnosis turns out to be benign, can have enduring adverse psychological consequences, including persistent anxiety, cancer fears, and other manifestations of psychological distress. The present study examines factors that potentially moderate psychological recovery among women who face a breast cancer threat. Design: Participants were adult women had just received a benign outcome from a breast cancer diagnostic procedure that had been conducted because of suspicion of breast cancer (a non-conclusive mammography or ultrasonography result, a referral from their doctor because of pain or family history, detection of a lump, a 6-month follow-up appointment after a breast abnormality from a previous screening or diagnostic procedure, or a fluid leak from one or both breasts). We measured several psychological traits at Time 1 (right after receipt of the “no cancer” feedback) and then each month for the next 3 months. Analyses examined the factors that hindered or facilitated psychological recovery from the cancer threat. Results: Results showed that trait anxiety and family history of cancer hindered recovery and that older age and optimism facilitated recovery and lessened adverse psychological consequences. Self-regulatory strategies such as planful problem-solving, positive reappraisal, and mastery facilitated recovery. Conclusions: Our findings shed light on the factors that are implicated in psychological recovery from a benign breast cancer outcome after a diagnostic procedure (ultrasonography, repeat or initial mammography, stereotactic biopsy, fine-needle aspiration, or ultrasound-guided biopsy). Those factors could be used to identify women who may experience prolonged psychological distress, so as to assist them when they face stressful diagnostic concerns.
Risk Factors and Early Detection of Breast Cancer: Facts, Questions, and Genome-Based Perspectives
Authors: Ziogas Demosthenes E.
Published: June 2012

Substantial progress in detecting breast cancer at an early stage has been made over recent decades. [...]
THE RESEARCH ON THE EFFECTIVENESS OF THE INCLINED TOP TYPE OF A NOISE BARRIER / TRIUKŠMO SLOPINIMO SIENELĖS VIRŠUTINĖS DALIES POLINKIO EFEKTYVUMO TYRIMAI
Authors: Venckus Žilvinas , Grubliauskas Raimondas , Venslovas Albertas
Published: June 2012

Now, it is normally agreed that noise barriers – shields with appropriate devices on the top edge – limit the diffraction of sound waves more effectively than the usual shields of the equal or in some cases even greater height. These barriers are referred to as “edge-modified” noise shields. The article describes acoustic field researches that estimate the impact of the slope of the upper edge of the noise barrier on the effectiveness of shielding from environmental noise. The article was drafted on the basis of methodical recommendations presented in the standard ISO 11821: 1997 “Acoustics – Measurement of the in situ sound attenuation of a removable screen”. While altering the slope angle, respectively to 90°, 120°, 150°, 180°, different noise barriers were formed: “L90” (slope angle 90°), “J120”, “J150” (slope angles 120° and 150°), and the usual “straight type” (slope angle 180°). The impact made by the form of the noise barrier on the spread of noise in the noise suppression area was observed at the areas of low (100–315 Hz) and high (2000–5000 Hz) frequency. The most effective form of a barrier in reducing the diffraction of low frequency sound waves was “J120”, whereas high frequency sound waves were most effectively reduced using a usual straight noise barrier. Santrauka Paprastai pripažįstama, kad triukšmo slopinimo sienelės-ekranai su atitinkamais įtaisais ant jų viršutinio krašto efektyviau riboja garso bangų difrakciją, palyginti su įprastiniais tokio pat aukščio, o kai kuriais atvejais ir aukštesniais, ekranais. Ekranai su įtaisais vadinami „modifikuotosios briaunos“ triukšmo slopinimo ekranais. Atliekant akustinius natūrinius tyrimus vertinta triukšmo slopinimo sienelės viršutinės dalies polinkio įtaka aplinkoje sklindančio garso bangų ekranavimo efektui. Tyrimų metodika parengta pagal EN ISO 11821:1997 „Akustika. Natūrinis kilnojamo ekrano garso silpninimo matavimas“ standarte pateikiamas metodines rekomendacijas. Polinkio kampą keičiant atitinkamai 90°, 120°, 150°, 180°, formuota „L90“ (polinkio kampas 90°), „J120“, „J150“ (polinkio kampas 120° ir 150°) ir įprastinio „tiesiojo tipo“ (polinkio kampas 180°) triukšmo slopinimo sienelės. Triukšmo slopinimo sienelės formos įtaka triukšmo sklaidai stebima žemojo (100–315 Hz) ir aukštojo dažnio (2000–5000 Hz) srityse. Žemojo dažnio garso bangų difrakciją efektyviausiai sumažina „J120“ formos ekranas, aukštojo dažnio srityje didžiausias ekranavimo efektas pasiektas taikant įprastinę „tiesiojo tipo“ triukšmo slopinimo sienelę.
DREDGING OF LAKE AND APPLICATION OF SAPROPEL FOR IMPROVEMENT OF LIGHT SOIL PROPERTIES / EŽERO VALYMAS IR SAPROPELIO NAUDOJIMAS DIRVOŽEMIO SAVYBĖMS GERINTI
Authors: Bakšienė Eugenija , Ciūnys Antanas
Published: June 2012

Approx. 1.5 billion m3 of sapropel are accumulated in silty Lithuanian lakes. Sapropel is a valuable organic and limy matter, which can be used for fertilisation and soil improvement. Silted lakes usually require mechanical cleaning, i.e. removal of lake sapropel. Such cleaning was carried out in one of the lakes of Lithuanian – Lake Ilgutis: using a dredge, sapropel was extracted, dried in sediment bowls to 80–85% of humidity, carried to a field and insert into the soil. Summarised results of the long-term experiment showed that calcareous sapropel can reduce soil acidity and increase the amount of exchangeable bases (Ca+Mg). Under the influence of sapropel, the contents of organic carbon and total nitrogen increased as well. The results of investigations demonstrated that by the end of the second (after 12 years), third (after 18 years) and fourth (after 24 years) rotation, the effect of sapropel on soil chemical properties was positive. Compared with limestone, calcareous sapropel improved physical characteristics of the soil to a greater extent. Santrauka Uždumblėjusiuose Lietuvos ežeruose susikaupę apie 1,5 mlrd. m3 sapropelio. Sapropelis, vertinga biogeninė organinė ar kalkinė medžiaga, gali būti plačiai naudojamas dirvoms tręšti ir gerinti. Ežerai, kasant sapropelį iš jų, būtų išvalomi ir pagilinami. Tai padėtų atkurti jų būklę, funkcinę paskirtį. Žemsiurbe MZ-8 buvo kasamas sapropelis iš Ilgučio ežero ir sėsdintuvuose džiovinamas, tada išvežamas į laukus, ir tręšiama dirva. Nustatyta, kad dirvožemio agrocheminės savybės kas rotacija prastėjo, tačiau nepasiekė rodiklių, buvusių prieš bandymų rengimą. Teigiamas sapropelio veikimas pastebėta po antrosios (12 metų), trečiosios (18 metų) ir ketvirtosios (24 metų) sėjomainų rotacijų. Sapropelis laukams tręšti turėjo teigiamos įtakos dirvožemio fizikinėms savybėms. Kalkinis sapropepelis veikė geriau nei klintmilčiai.
UNBRIDGEABLE GAP BETWEEN TRANSPORT POLICY AND PRACTICE IN HUNGARY / VENGRIJOS TRANSPORTO TOLITIKOS IR PRAKTIKOS TOTRŪKIS
Authors: Szendro Gabor , Csete Maria , Torok Adam
Published: June 2012

Due to the increasing energy demand and mobility of the human population and in order to pursue sustainable development and decrease fossil fuel dependency there is a major need to use alternative energy sources. Nowadays the 20-20-20 policy is under revision. It has become clear that the transport sector on the EU level will not be able to meet the goal of 20% usage of renewable energy sources by 2020. Our paper investigates the possibilities of Hungary for reaching 10% of renewable energy sources in transport sector. Our research indicates that blending bioethanol and biodiesel with conventional fuels is not sufficient not provide an effective and alternative way to fulfill 10% part of transport-related energy demand. Further efforts are needed that can only be done by deep analysis of the current situation and active participationin policymaking as an additional tool of reaching the target: changing our social behaviour. Furthermore, our investigationshows that this general problem can occur not only in Hungary but in those European countries that targeted the 10% renewable energy share in their transport sector. Santrauka Dėl vis kylančio energijos poreikio ir gyventojų mobilumo bei siekiant įgyvendinti tvariosios plėtros principus, sumažinti priklausomybę nuo iškastinio kuro, didėja būtinumas naudoti alternatyviuosius energijos išteklius. Svarbu konkrečiau apibrėžti projekto „20–20–20“ tikslus. Akivaizdu, Europos Sąjungos lygiu transporto sektoriui nepavyks įgyvendinti, kad iki 2020 m. atsinaujinantys šaltiniai būtų naudojami 20 proc. Nagrinėjamos Vengrijos transporto sektoriaus galimybės alternatyviuosius energijos šaltinius naudoti 10 proc. Atlikus tyrimus nustatyta, kad maišyti bioetanolį ir biodyzeliną su įprastiniu kuru nėra pakankama priemonė, kad taptų efektyvia alternatyva ir transportui būtinos energijos poreikį patenkintų 10 proc. Būtinos tolesnės pastangos, dalyvaujant suinteresuotosioms šalims, išsamiai analizuoti esamą situaciją ir keisti socialinę elgseną, kad tai taptų papildoma priemone siekiant tikslo. Nustatyta, kad ši bendrojo pobūdžio problema gali kilti ne tik Vengrijoje, bet ir tose Europos šalyse, kuriose užsibrėžta atsinaujinančius šaltinius transporto srityje naudoti 10 proc.
RADIONUCLIDE AND HEAT TRANSPORT FROM HYPOTHETICAL SNF CANISTER IN CRYSTALLINE BASEMENT, CASE OF SOUTH-EASTERN LITHUANIA / RADIONUKLIDŲ IR ŠILUMOS SKLAIDA IŠ HIPOTETINIO PBK KONTEINERIO KRISTALINIO PAMATO UOLIENOSE (PIETRYČIŲ LIETUVOS PAVYZDYS)
Authors: Jakimavičiūtė-Maselienė Vaidotė , Mažeika Jonas , Motiejūnas Stasys
Published: June 2012

The Strategy on Radioactive Waste Management of Lithuania (Radioaktyviųjų… 2008) envisages evaluating the possibilities of disposal of spent nuclear fuel and long-lived radioactive waste from operation and decommissioning of Ignalina NPP in a deep geological repository. The crystalline basement and sedimentary cover of south-eastern Lithuania was selected for the current model case studies due to availability of geological and hydrogeological data from previous explorations. Groundwater flow, radionuclide (iodine-129 as mobile and long-lived one) transport and heat transfer, modelling using computer code FEFLOW was performed. The model domain of south-eastern Lithuania comprises Protero-zoic-Archaean aquifer with overlaying aquifers system of sedimentary cover. The upward groundwater flow through defected canister located in tectonically damaged zone was conservatively generated. The main results of calculations are following: in case of upward groundwater flow, the maximum activity concentration of 129I in groundwater of the tectonic fracture zone above defected canister will not exceed 10−4 Bq/l; the maximum temperature in the tectonic fracture will obtain about 30-35°C and will not impact on the radionuclide transport. Location of model domain in south-eastern Lithuania does not mean any reference to the site for deep geological repository. The results show that doses obtained by human via drinking water should be below the dose constraint (0.2 mSv /year). Santrauka Radioaktyviųjų atliekų tvarkymo strategija numato galimybę panaudotą branduolinį kurą ir kitas ilgaamžes radioak- tyviąsias atliekas, susidariusias eksploatuojant Ignalinos AE ir susidarysiančias ją demontuojant, galutinai patalpinti giliai geologinėse formacijose. Dėl didelio geologinės bei hidrogeologinės informacijos kiekio šiame darbe nagrinėti tik Pietryčių Lietuvos kristalinis pamatas bei jį dengiantys nuosėdinių uolienų sluoksniai. Radionuklidų bei šilumos sklaidai kristalinio pamato uolienose vertinti naudota kompiuterinė programa FEFLOW 5.0. Pasirinkta konteinerio defekto scenarijus, taikant skaičiavimus, atliktus LEI ekspertų. Modelis apima archėjaus ir proterozojaus vandeningąjį sluoksnį bei nuosėdinėje dangoje slūgsančius vandeninguosius kompleksus. Modeliuotas požeminio vandens srautas, kylantis per tektoniškai pažeistą zoną, kurioje palaidotas PBK konteineris. Iš pagrindinių modeliavimo rezultatų nustatyta, kad ilgaamžio ir mažai sorbuojamo radionuklido 129I sklaidos intensyvumas mažai priklauso nuo geologinės aplinkos savybių, o šilumos sklaida neturi įtakos radionuklidų sklaidai. Žmogaus gaunama dozė, skaičiavimų duomenimis, nesieks ribinės vertės (0,2 mSv/metai).
IFN-γ Elicits Macrophage Autophagy via the p38 MAPK Signaling Pathway
Authors: Matsuzawa Takeshi , Kim Bae-Hoon , Shenoy Avinash R. , Kamitani Shigeki , Miyake Masami , MacMicking John D.
Published: June 2012

Autophagy is a major innate immune defense pathway in both plants and animals. In mammals, this cascade can be elicited by cytokines (IFN-γ) or pattern recognition receptors (TLRs and nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptors). Many signaling components in TLR- and nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor-induced autophagy are now known; however, those involved in activating autophagy via IFN-γ remain to be elucidated. In this study, we engineered macrophages encoding a tandem fluorescently tagged LC3b (tfLC3) autophagosome reporter along with stably integrated short hairpin RNAs to demonstrate IFN-γ–induced autophagy required JAK 1/2, PI3K, and p38 MAPK but not STAT1. Moreover, the autophagy-related guanosine triphosphatase Irgm1 proved dispensable in both stable tfLC3-expressing RAW 264.7 and tfLC3-transduced Irgm1−/− primary macrophages, revealing a novel p38 MAPK-dependent, STAT1-independent autophagy pathway that bypasses Irgm1. These unexpected findings have implications for understanding how IFN-γ–induced autophagy is mobilized within macrophages for inflammation and host defense.
Erythroplasia of Queyrat
Authors: Fanning Deirdre Mary , Flood Hugh
Published: June 2012

A 58-year-old Caucasian male presented to the urology clinic reporting an approximate one-year history of a persistent irritating, slowly progressive, glans penis redness. Biopsy revealed penile squamous cell carcinoma in situ. He underwent a partial glansectomy with circumcision and skin grafting. At three months follow-up there is no evidence of local disease recurrence. In western countries, primary malignant penile cancer is uncommon, with an incidence of less than 1 per 100,000 males. Squamous cell cancer accounts for more than 95% of cases of penile cancer. Squamous cell carcinoma in situ on the penile mucosa or transitional surfaces is also known as Erythroplasia of Queyrat. In the region, one third of penile squamous cell carcinoma in situ cases progress to invasive squamous cell carcinoma.
Explorative study on the use of omalizumab in patients suffering from interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome
Authors: Porru Daniele , Bucchioni Enrica , Macchi Marcello , Leva Fabio , Parmigiani Alberto , Barletta Davide , Choussos Dimitrios , Gardella Barbara , Daccò Maria Diletta , Nappi Rossella Elena , Allegri Massimo , Bianchi Carlo Maria , Spinillo Arsenio , Rovereto Bruno
Published: June 2012

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of omalizumab in the treatment of Interstitial Cystitis/Bladder Pain Syndrome (IC/BPS), evaluated by visual analogue score for pain and urgency- frequency, O’Leary-Sant IC symptom and problem index questionnaire, Pain Urgency Frequency questionnaire and Patient Global Assessment questionnaire. Four female patients with a diagnosis of IC/BPS were included in the study, with an age between 20 and 39 years. In the first patient the subjective final evaluation was of a marked improvement. The second patient had a moderate improvement of the subjective final evaluation. The third patient considered her overall clinical situation to have slightly improved after treatment. One 32-year-old patient, with multiple allergies, discontinued treatment after 3 months and could not complete the study due to side effects. Omalizumab was subcutaneously administered to patients with IC/PBS; it induced both a subjective and objective improvement of symptoms in 2 patients enrolled in the study.
Vandetanib for the Treatment of Metastatic Medullary Thyroid Cancer
Authors: Degrauwe Nils , Sosa Julie Ann , Roman Sanziana , Deshpande Hari A.
Published: June 2012

Medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) represents an aggressive form of thyroid malignancy. Some may occur spontaneously or can be associated with Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia syndromes, or Familial Medullary Thyroid Cancer syndrome. In these patients, the protooncogene RET (rearranged during transfection) is mutated. In patients who have unresectable or metastatic disease, the long term prognosis is poor. New treatments for this disease have focused on the use of targeted agents that inhibit the receptor tyrosine kinase of RET. One of these treatments, Vandetanib (Caprelsa, Astra Zeneca), recently has received approval from the Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of patients with progressive locally advanced and/or metastatic disease. This review highlights the studies that led to the drug's approval, and discusses on the potential financial costs of treatment and side effects of this therapy. The main clinical studies evaluating Vandetanib for the treatment of other solid tumors will also be reviewed.