bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Primary flexor enthesopathy of the canine elbow: imaging and arthroscopic findings in eight dogs with discrete radiographic changes
Authors: de Bakker E. , Beaumlin Y. , Samoy Y. C. A. , Van Vynckt D. , Gielen I. , Ducatelle R. , van Bree H. , Van Ryssen B.
Published: March 2012

Objective: To describe the radiographic, ultrasonographic, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and arthroscopic findings in eight dogs with elbow lameness caused by primary flexor enthesopathy.

Study design: Clinical study.

Animals: Eight client-owned dogs.

Methods: In all dogs, lameness was localized to the elbow by clinical examination. Radiographic examination, ultrasound, CT and MRI were performed prior to arthroscopy. In seven dogs, surgical treatment and subsequent histopathology were performed.

Results: Primary enthesopathy of the medial epicondyle was diagnosed in eight dogs (13 joints) by combining the minimal radiographic changes with specific ultrasonographic, CT, MRI and arthroscopic findings at the medial epicondyle. In all joints, any other pathology could be excluded. Histopathology of the affected tissue revealed degeneration and metaplasia in the flexor muscles.

Conclusions: Primary flexor enthesopathy at the medial epicondyle is an unrecognized condition and is a possible cause of elbow lameness in the dog. Diagnosis is based on specific imaging and arthroscopic findings.

Clinical relevance: The most important cause of elbow lameness in dogs is medial coronoid disease. Often this condition presents with minimal radiographic and arthroscopic changes. In these cases, primary enthesopathy of the medial epicondyle should be considered as a differential diagnosis, in order to make the correct treatment decision.
Pediatric Pyogenic Sacroiliitis and Osteomyelitis
Authors: Srinivasan Sushant , Miller Carl , Akhras Nour , Blackwood Alexander R.
Published: March 2012

Pyogenic sacroiliitis for 1-2% of all cases of septic arthritis with less than 200 cases reported in the English literature since the beginning of the twentieth century. Cultures of joint fluid usually grow Staphylococcus aureus. Prognosis is excellent; however, diagnosis may be difficult due to rarity of disease and non-specific signs, symptoms, and physical findings. Magnetic resonance imaging has been found to be the most useful imaging modality in diagnosis. Most reported cases required prolonged antimicrobial therapy of six to nine weeks. Presented here are two children with pyogenic sacroiliitis managed at a tertiary-care, university hospital and review of the literature on this relatively rare diagnosis.
A Novel Influenza A (H1N1) Outbreak Experience among Residents of a Long Term-Care Facility in Saudi Arabia during 2010 Seasonal Flu Circulation
Authors: Afifi Raouf M. , Omar Sherif , El Raggal Ahmed
Published: March 2012

The aim of this work was to describe and analyze an outbreak of novel 2009 influenza A (H1N1) among residents of a long-term care facility (LTCF) in Prince Mansour Military Hospital (PMMH), Taif, Saudi Arabia. These patients had been admitted to the LTCF months or years before the outbreak for several reasons, e.g. cerebral palsy, neurological deficits due to road traffic accidents with resultant handicap, chronic diseases associated with old age. An observational study was carried out to demonstrate and analyze the epidemiological characteristics (demographic factors, risk factors, and outcomes) associated with the outbreak in order to clarify which prevention and control measures had been taken and which recommendations were followed. During the period October 28 to November 11 2010, 21 LTCF residents were suspected to be clinically involved: fever ≥38ºC with influenza-like illness (ILI). Age ranged from 9-91 years (mean 46±24.13); 62% were males. Among them, 12 (57%) were influenza A (H1N1) positive by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RTPCR). Mortality involved 2 (17%) of the A (H1N1) laboratory confirmed individuals. Implementation of the recommended infection control measures mitigated the transmission of infection to new individuals. The fulfillment of strict infection control measures could limit H1N1 infection among LTCFPMMH patients. Routine influenza, including specific H1N1 immunization of all LTCF residents together with their healthcare staff, should be mandatory in those settings serving immunocompromised patients.
Iron oxide nanoparticles coated with β-cyclodextrin polluted of Zea mays plantlets
Authors: Racuciu Mihaela
Published: March 2012

The present experimental investigation is focused on the study of assimilatory pigments and nucleic acid levels in young plants intended for agricultural use (Zea mays) in presence of water based magnetic fluid added in culture medium. The magnetic fluid was constituted by coating the nanosized magnetic nanoparticles (with 10.55 nm average value of the physical diameter) with β-cyclodextrin (C42H70O35) and further dispersion in water. After germination, various volume fractions (between 10 mL/L and 500 mL/L) of the magnetic fluid was added daily in the culture medium of Zea mays plants still at their early ontogenetic stages. Toxicity symptoms leaded to brown spots covering the leaf surface for the highest magnetic fluid volume fractions used, a putative oxidative stress generated by iron excess treatment. Relatively small volume fraction of magnetic fluid solutions induced the increase of chlorophyll a level (up to 38%), the main photosynthesis pigment, as well that the nucleic acid level (up to 57%) in Zea mays plantlets. All volume fractions of magnetic fluid solutions analyzed may have severe disruptive effects such as the ratio chlorophyll a/chlorophyll b (about 50% decreasing).
Early Recognition and Management of Septic Shock in Children
Authors: Biban Paolo , Gaffuri Marcella , Spaggiari Stefania , Zaglia Federico , Serra Alessandra , Santuz Pierantonio
Published: March 2012

Septic shock remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality among children, mainly due to acute haemodynamic compromise and multiple organ failures. In the last decade, international guidelines for the management of septic shock, as well as clinical practice parameters for hemodynamic support of pediatric patients, have been published. Early recognition and aggressive therapy of septic shock, by means of abundant fluid resuscitation, use of catecholamines and other adjuvant drugs, are widely considered of pivotal importance to improve the short and long-term outcome of these patients. The aim of this paper is to summarize the modern approach to septic shock in children, particularly in its very initial phase, when pediatric healthcare providers may be required to intervene in the pre-intensive care unit setting or just on admission in the pediatric intensive care unit.
Cross-Transmission Rates of Enterococcal Isolates among Newborns in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Böhme Henning , Königsmark Chitra , Klare Ingo , Zischka Melanie , Werner Guido
Published: March 2012

Enterococci are important pathogens causing nosocomial infections and patients at risk include also premature babies requiring intensive care treatment. Our aim was to assess occurrence and cross transmission rates of enterococci among neonatal patients of a hospital ward during a two months period. Rectal and skin samples were taken between day one and 60 of infants’ age. Colonization with various potentially pathogenic bacteria was correlated with developing a subsequent infection. Enterococcal isolates were identified by colony morphology. The bacterial species was assessed and antibiotic susceptibilities were determined. A molecular analysis of 20 investigated enterococcal isolates revealed prevalence of commensal strain types; hospitalassociated strain types or multi-resistant variants were absent. Cross transmission of E. faecium and E. faecalis isolates among neonatal patients attending the intensive crare unit at the same time was demonstrable. Introduction of hospital-associated, multi-resistant variants into this special setting has to be avoided to reduce the risk of subsequent infections.
Progressive Tumefactive Fibroinflammatory Lesion of the Infratemporal Fossa Treated by Radiation Therapy
Authors: Hoebers Frank J.P. , Ordonez Bayardo Perez , Irish Jon , Simpson Rand E. , Yu Eugene , O'Sullivan Brian
Published: March 2012

Tumefactive fibroinflammatory lesion (TFIL) is a rare benign tumor in the head and neck region. We present a case of a 40-year-old female with a benign but progressive lesion of the infratemporal fossa, which was diagnosed as TFIL. Patient responded briefly to a course of steroid treatment but eventually showed progression and was unresponsive to further steroids. She was then treated with external beam radiation to a dose of 60 Gy in 30 fractions. After radiation a slow, gradual decrease in tumor size was noted over the course of years and she is free of disease after more than 11 years of follow-up. The major long-term side effect this patient developed was an expected unilateral radiation-induced retinopathy, due to the close proximity of the lesion to the orbit. The dilemma of treatment of benign disease with radiation with potential long-term complications is discussed and a review of the literature on TFIL is presented.
Large-cell Neuroendocrine Carcinoma of the Cervix
Authors: Yoseph Benyam , Chi Ming , Truskinovsky Alexander M. , Dudek Arkadiusz Z.
Published: March 2012

Large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (LCNEC) of the uterine cervix is a rare and aggressive malignancy with poor prognosis even in its early stage, despite multimodality treatment strategy. Here, we report a case of a woman with clinical polypoid stage IB LCNEC of the cervix, which was detected in her 6-week postpartum checkup. A literature review was also conducted to evaluate current therapeutic approaches and potential new strategies.
Molecular Modelling of Oligomeric States of DmOR83b, an Olfactory Receptor in D. Melanogaster
Authors: Harini K. , Sowdhamini R.
Published: March 2012

After the discovery of the complete repertoire of D. melanogaster Olfactory Receptors (ORs), candidate ORs have been identified from at least 12 insect species from four orders (Coleoptera, Lepidoptera, Diptera, and Hymenoptera), including species of economic or medical importance. Although all ORs share the same G-protein coupled receptor structure with seven transmembrane domains, they share poor sequence identity within and between species, and have been identified mainly through genomic data analyses. To date, D. melanogaster remains the only insect species where ORs have been extensively studied, from expression pattern establishment to functional investigations. These studies have confirmed several observations made in vertebrates: one OR type is selectively expressed in a subtype of olfactory receptor neurons, and one olfactory neuron expresses only one type of OR. The olfactory mechanism, further, appears to be conserved between insects and vertebrates. Understanding the function of insect ORs will greatly contribute to the understanding of insect chemical communication mechanisms, particularly with agricultural pests and disease vectors, and could result in future strategies to reduce their negative effects. In this study, we propose molecular models for insect olfactory receptor co-receptor OR83b and its possible functional oligomeric states. The functional similarity of OR83b to GPCRs and ion channels has been exploited for understanding the structure of OR83b. We could observe that C-terminal region (TM4-7) of OR83b is involved in homodimer amd heterodimer formation (with OR22a) which suggests why C-terminus of insect ORs are highly conserved across different species. We also propose two possible ion channel pathways in OR83b: one formed by TM4-5 region with intracellular pore-forming domain and the other formed by TM5-6 with extracellular pore forming domain using analysis of the electrostatics distribution of the pore forming domain.
Increased Levels of Circulating and Tissue mRNAs of Oct-4, Sox-2, Bmi-1 and Nanog is ESCC Patients: Potential Tool for Minimally Invasive Cancer Diagnosis
Authors: Bahl Kriti , Saraya Anoop , Sharma Rinu
Published: March 2012

Background

Early stages of esophageal cancer lack a specific symptom, a reliable biomarker and accurate non-invasive diagnostic modalities prompting the pressing need for identification of a marker for early diagnosis of this disease.

Methods

In the present study we investigated the levels of circulating and tissue mRNAs of Oct-3/4, Sox-2, Nanog and Bmi-1 in esophageal cancer patients using Reverse-Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) with the aim of evaluating their potential as minimally invasive diagnostic markers.

Result

Increased transcript levels of Oct-4, Sox-2, Bmi-1 and Nanog were detected in (92%), (95%), (75%) and (67%) of the esophageal cancer tissues, respectively as compared with the matched distant normals.

Conclusion

Interestingly, most of the preneoplastic tissues exhibited increased transcript levels of these stemness markers suggesting their role in early stages of esophageal tumorigenesis. Furthermore, the detection of elevated levels of circulating mRNAs of Oct-4 and Nanog in sera of esophageal cancer patients emphasizes their potential as minimally invasive diagnostic markers for esophageal cancer.
Triad of Iron Deficiency Anemia, Severe Thrombocytopenia and Menorrhagia–-A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Ibrahim Ramy , Khan Areej , Raza Shahzad , Kafeel Muhammad , Dabas Ridhima , Haynes Elizabeth , Gandhi Anjula , Majumder Omran L. , Zaman Mohammad
Published: March 2012

Introduction

Thrombocytosis is a common disorder in patients diagnosed with iron deficiency anemia. The decreased platelet counts commonly found iron deficiency anemia is rarely reported in clinical practice. The exact mechanism of the occurrence of thrombocytopenia in iron deficiency anemia remains unclear. In this case report we discuss a triad of symptoms seen in the African American population: Iron deficiency anemia, menorrhagia and thrombocytopenia.

Case presentation

A 40 year old multiparous African-American woman presented with heavy vaginal bleed, severe anemia (3.5 g/dL) and thrombocytopenia (30,000/mm3). The peripheral blood smear showed marked microcytic hypochromic cells with decreased platelets counts. After excluding other causes of thrombocytopenia and anemia, increased red cell distribution width and low iron saturation confirmed the diagnosis of iron deficiency anemia. Treatment for iron deficiency anemia was initiated with intravenous and oral iron supplements. Two months following treatment of iron deficiency anemia, the triad of manifestations resolved and patient remained stable.

Conclusion

Profound degree of iron deficiency anemia can present with thrombocytopenia and severe menorrhagia. Iron replacement should be the main treatment goal in these patients. This case report further supports the 2 compartment model of the role of iron in maintaining platelet counts.
Sensitivities of sulfate aerosol formation and oxidation pathways on the chemical mechanism employed in simulations
Authors: Stein A. F. , Saylor R. D.
Published: March 2012

Abstract. The processes of aerosol sulfate formation are vital components in the scientific understanding of perturbations of earth's radiative balance via aerosol direct and indirect effects. In this work, an analysis of the influence of changes in oxidant levels and sulfur dioxide oxidation pathways was performed to study the underlying pathways for sulfate formation. Sensitivities of this constituent were calculated from a series of photochemical model simulations with varying rates of NOx and VOC emissions to produce variations in oxidant abundances using a photochemical model (CMAQ) that covers the Eastern US for the ICARTT 2004 campaign. Three different chemical mechanisms (CBIV, CB05, and SAPRC99) were used to test model responses to changes in NOx and VOC levels. Comparison of modeled results and measurements demonstrates that the simulations with all three chemical mechanisms capture the levels of sulfate reasonably well. However, the three mechanisms are shown to have significantly different responses in sulfate formation when the emissions of NOx and/or VOC are altered, reflecting different photochemical regimes under which the formation of sulfate occurs. Also, an analysis of the oxidation pathways that contribute to sulfur dioxide conversion to sulfate reveals substantial differences in the importance of the various pathways among the three chemical mechanisms. These findings suggest that estimations of the influence that future changes in primary emissions or other changes which perturb SO2 oxidants have on sulfate abundances, and on its direct and indirect radiative forcing effects, may be dependent on the chemical mechanism employed in the model analysis.
Global estimates of C stock changes in living forest biomass: EDGARv4.3 – 5FL1 time series from 1990 to 2010
Authors: Petrescu A. M. R. , Abad-Viñas R. , Janssens-Maenhout G. , Blujdea V. , Grassi G.
Published: March 2012

Abstract. While the Emissions Database for Global Atmospheric Research (EDGAR) focuses on global estimates for the full set of anthropogenic activities, the Land-Use, Land-Use Change and Forestry (LULUCF) sector might be the most diverse and most challenging to cover consistently for all world countries. Parties to UNFCCC are required to provide periodic estimates of GHG emissions, following the latest approved methodological guidance by the International Panel on Climate Change (IPCC). The aim of the current study is comparing the IPCC GPG 2003 and the IPCC AFOLU 2006 by calculating the C stock changes in living forest biomass, and then using computed results to extend the EDGAR database. For this purpose, we applied the IPCC Tier 1 method at global level, i.e. using spatially coarse activity data (i.e. area, obtained combining two different global forest maps: the Global Land Cover map and the eco-zones subdivision of the GEZ Ecological Zone map) in combination with the IPCC default C stocks and C stock change factors. Results for the C stock changes were calculated separately for Gains, Harvest, Net Deforestation and Fires (GFED3), for the years 1990, 2000, 2005 and 2010. At the global level, results obtained with the two set of IPCC guidance differed by about 40%, due to different assumptions and default factors. The IPCC Tier 1 method unavoidably introduced high uncertainties due to the "globalization" of parameters. When the results using IPCC AFOLU 2006 for Annex I countries are compared to other international datasets (UNFCCC, FAO) or scientific publications, it emerges a significant overestimation of the sink. For developing countries, we conclude that C stock change in forest remaining forest can hardly be estimated with Tier 1 method. Overall, confronting the IPCC 2003 and 2006 methodologies we conclude that IPCC 2006 suits best the needs of EDGAR and provide a consistent global picture of C stock changes in living forest biomass independent of country estimates.
The Southern Annular Mode: a comparison of indices
Authors: Ho M. , Kiem A. S. , Verdon-Kidd D. C.
Published: March 2012

Abstract. The Southern Annular Mode (SAM) has been identified as a climate mechanism with potentially significant impacts on the Australian hydroclimate. However, despite the identification of relationships between SAM and Australia's hydroclimate using certain data sets, and focussed on certain time periods, the association has not been extensively explored and significant uncertainties remain. One reason for this is the existence of numerous indices, methods and data sets by which SAM has been approximated. In this paper, the various SAM definitions and indices are reviewed and the similarities and discrepancies are discussed, along with the strengths and weaknesses of each index development approach. Further, the sensitivity of the relationship between SAM and Australian rainfall to choice of SAM index is quantified and recommendations are given as to the most appropriate index to use when assessing the impacts of the SAM on Australia's hydroclimate. Importantly this study highlights the need to consider the impact that the choice of SAM index, and data set used to calculate the index, has on the outcomes of any SAM attribution study.
Topological complexity of frictional interfaces: friction networks
Authors: Ghaffari H. O. , Young R. P.
Published: March 2012

Abstract. Through research conducted in this study, a network approach to the correlation patterns of void spaces in rough fractures (crack type II) was developed. We characterized friction networks with several networks characteristics. The correlation among network properties with the fracture permeability is the result of friction networks. The revealed hubs in the complex aperture networks confirmed the importance of highly correlated groups to conduct the highlighted features of the dynamical aperture field. We found that there is a universal power law between the nodes' degree and motifs frequency (for triangles it reads T(k) ∝ kβ (β ≈ 2 ± 0.3)). The investigation of localization effects on eigenvectors shows a remarkable difference in parallel and perpendicular aperture patches. Furthermore, we estimate the rate of stored energy in asperities so that we found that the rate of radiated energy is higher in parallel friction networks than it is in transverse directions. The final part of our research highlights 4 point sub-graph distribution and its correlation with fluid flow. For shear rupture, we observed a similar trend in sub-graph distribution, resulting from parallel and transversal aperture profiles (a superfamily phenomenon).
The Role of Fine-Needle Aspiration Cytology in the Diagnosis of Basal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Kassi Masoom , Kasi Pashtoon Murtaza , Afghan Abaseen Khan , Marri Shah Mohammad , Kassi Mahwash , Tareen Iqbal
Published: March 2012

Background/Aims. Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common malignant tumor of the skin in humans. The diagnosis of BCC is made clinically, which can then be confirmed microscopically. Biopsy or surgical excision of the lesion provides the specimen for histopathological examination, which is the mainstay for diagnosis. Fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) on the other hand is an even simpler procedure, which can provide accurate diagnosis to confirm or exclude the malignancy. Methods. Here, we present our experience on the role of FNAC in diagnosing BCC. We were able to recruit 37 patients, of which 35 had BCC. Both FNAC and biopsy were obtained and then interpreted independently of one another. Results. Cytology correlated with histopathology in all cases except for 2 in which the yield was deemed inadequate. The sensitivity and specificity of fine-needle aspiration cytology for basal cell carcinoma were 94.3% and 100%, respectively. Conclusions. We, therefore, recommend this technique for the initial evaluation of a patient with suspected BCC or in cases of recurrence. The technique is cheap, quick, less invasive, and highly accurate for the diagnosis of BCC. The limitation of the technique is low yield in some of the cases.
A Short Historical Survey of Functional Hardware Languages
Authors: Chen Gang
Published: March 2012

Functional programming languages offer a high degree of abstractions and clean semantics, which are desirable for hardware descriptions. This short historical survey is about functional languages specifically created for hardware design and verification. It also includes those hardware languages or formalisms which are strongly influenced by functional programming style.
Defect Studies in bcc and fcc Iron
Authors: Ghorai A. , Das Arjun
Published: March 2012

Variation of vacancy formation energy (EF1v) with rc of Ashcroft's empty core model potential (AECMP) model for different exchange and correlation functions (ECFs) show almost independent nature but slight variation with ECF for both bcc α iron and fcc γ iron.
The Characteristics of Cosmic Rays in a Fractal Medium
Authors: Doostmohammadi S. , Fatemi S. J.
Published: March 2012

We consider the galactic propagation of cosmic rays with energies below the knee of the cosmic ray spectrum (at  GeV). Lagutin and his colleagues suggested that propagation in a fractal medium would be an appropriate model for such particles and pointed out that a different diffusion equation to that usually assumed is then required. We present results of calculations using a diffusion equation appropriate to an inhomogeneous medium. These results are encouraging and can fit properties of the energy density of cosmic rays using the supernova model of Erlykin and Wolfendale. The containment time of cosmic rays, in such a modeling of propagation in a fractal medium, is discussed.
A Multihop Clustering Algorithm for Energy Saving in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Ebadi Saeed
Published: March 2012

One of the important problems for wireless sensor networks is increasing the network lifetime. Clustering is an efficient technique for prolonging the lifetime of wireless sensor networks. This papers propose a multihop clustering algorithm (MHC) for energy saving in wireless sensor networks. MHC selects the clusterheads according to the two parameters the remaining energy and node degree. Also cluster heads select their members according to the two parameters of sensor the remaining energy and the distance to its cluster head. MHC is done in three phases quickly. Simulation results show that the proposed algorithm increases the network lifetime more than 16 percent compared of the LEACH protocol.
A Survey Addressing On-Chip Interconnect: Energy and Reliability Considerations
Authors: Postman Jacob , Chiang Patrick
Published: March 2012

Scaling CMOS process technology continues to enable increased levels of system integration, leading to on-chip communication demands beyond what traditional digital signaling techniques can efficiently provide with sufficient reliability. In this paper we survey the state of the art of on-chip interconnect techniques for improving performance, energy, and reliability and provide a review of interconnect reliability considerations. Finally, we provide a case study to evaluate the efficiency of error correcting codes on a state-of-the-art energy-efficient low-swing interconnect.
Effect of stearic acid and epoxy silane on the structure and flame‐retardant properties of magnesium hydroxide/ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer/very low density polyethylene composites
Authors: Rong He , Man Xu , Lisheng Zhong , Darong Xie , Xinlu Tuo , Jingxuan Wu
Published: March 2012

Ethylene vinyl acetate copolymer (EVA) and very low density polyethylene (VLDPE) blends filled with magnesium hydroxide (MH) were compounded by melt blending. Two kinds of surface treatments were used in this research, including stearic acid and epoxy silane. The composites were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, limiting oxygen index (LOI), and cone calorimeter testing to study the effects of stearic acid and epoxy silane on the structure and flame‐retardant properties of the MH/EVA/VLDPE composites. The results indicate that stearic acid and epoxy silane had different effects on the interfacial interaction of the MH/EVA/VLDPE composites; this made a difference in the condensed phase of the physical process. Thus, the composites with different surface treatments had different flammability characteristics, thermal degradation processes, char yields, and LOIs. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2012
Features associated with locoregional spread of papillary carcinoma correlate with diagnostic category in the Bethesda System for reporting thyroid cytopathology
Authors: VanderLaan Paul A. , Marqusee Ellen , Krane Jeffrey F.
Published: March 2012

BACKGROUND:

Most malignancies identified by thyroid fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) are papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC). This study sought to determine if clinically adverse features of PTC correlate with the preceding cytologic diagnosis.

METHODS:

Thyroid FNA diagnoses were correlated with subsequent histopathologic findings.

RESULTS:

From 6175 thyroid FNAs, histologic follow‐up confirmed PTC in 52 of 184 (28%) FNAs with atypia of undetermined significance (AUS), 52 of 190 (27%) FNAs suspicious for follicular neoplasm, 182 of 229 (79%) FNAs that were suspicious for malignancy, and 188 of 198 (95%) FNAs that were malignant (M). Sex, age, and disease multifocality did not differ among FNA diagnosis groups. However, PTCs following an M FNA were more likely to have a higher American Joint Committee on Cancer T and N stage, and have lymphovascular invasion and/or extrathyroidal extension. Two patients had distant metastasis at initial surgery, whereas 16 developed subsequent recurrence and/or metastasis; all had a preceding M FNA. High‐risk histologic subtypes of PTC also stratify to the M category, accounting at least partly for the association of cytologic diagnosis with adverse pathological parameters. Conversely, follicular variants of PTC predominate in non‐M categories.

CONCLUSIONS:

The Bethesda System for Reporting Thyroid Cytopathology conveys malignancy risk, but also predicts the presence of pathological risk factors and disease progression when the malignancy is PTC. M diagnoses identify higher risk PTCs, whereas AUS diagnoses identify low‐risk PTCs, mostly follicular variants. These findings support the concept of conservative clinical management for some patients with AUS, while suggesting that a central neck dissection may be routinely justified in some patients with a M FNA. Cancer (Cancer Cytopathol) 2012;. © 2012 American Cancer Society.
Tumor response assessments with diffusion and perfusion MRI
Authors: Li Sonia P. , Padhani Anwar R.
Published: March 2012

There is an increasing awareness that the evaluation of tumor response to oncologic treatments based solely on anatomic imaging assessments face many limitations, particularly in this era of novel biologic targeted therapies. Functional imaging techniques such as diffusion‐weighted (DW) and dynamic contrast‐enhanced (DCE) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) have the ability to depict important tumor biologic features and are able to predict therapy response based on assessments of cellularity and tumor vascularity, which often precede morphologic alterations. In this article we focus on DW‐MRI and DCE‐MRI as response parameters addressing the technologies involved, quantification methods, and validation for each technique and their current role in imaging response to conventional and novel therapies. We also discuss the challenges that lie ahead in the deployment of these imaging methods into the clinical environment. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2012;35:745‐763. © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Noninvasive evaluation of 3D hemodynamics in a complex case of single ventricle physiology
Authors: Markl Michael , Geiger Julia , Jung Bernd , Hirtler Daniel , Arnold Raoul
Published: March 2012

We report the comprehensive evaluation of the complex hemodynamics in a rare case of a pediatric patient after repair of congenital heart disease with multiple abnormalities including hypoplastic left heart, double outlet right ventricle, transposition of great arteries, ventricular septal defect, aortic coarctation, and total cavopulmonary connection. Based on a single measurement, whole‐heart flow‐sensitive 4D magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was able to demonstrate a number of regional flow alterations such as poststenotic helix formation and asymmetric flow distributions for the double arterial outlet and to the left and right lungs. Our findings illustrate the potential role of flow‐sensitive 4D MRI as a noninvasive and radiation‐free technique for the frequent postinterventional follow‐up in these pediatric patients. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2012 © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A BEM sensitivity formulation for three‐dimensional active noise control
Authors: Brancati A. , Aliabadi M. H. , Mallardo V.
Published: March 2012

In this paper, a novel boundary element formulation for sensitivity analysis of local active noise control in a three‐dimensional field is presented. The formulation is based on the Helmholtz differential equation and is valid for internal as well as for scattering wave propagation problems. The primary noise is attenuated within an enclosure, called control volume, by adding a control source modelled as an object with a vibrating surface. Both the optimum position of the control volume and the optimum location/orientation of the secondary source are determined by minimisation of a suitable cost function. The sensitivities are determined by implicit differentiation. A hierarchical adaptive cross approximation approach in conjunction with the generalised minimal residual solver is implemented to accelerate the convergence. Four numerical examples are presented to demonstrate the accuracy and efficiency of the proposed formulations. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Preparation of composites of laponite with alginate and alginic acid polysaccharides
Authors: Bandeira Lucimara C , Calefi Paulo S , Ciuffi Katia J , de Faria Emerson H , Nassar Eduardo J , Vicente Miguel A , Trujillano Raquel
Published: March 2012

Polymer/clay composites have several uses in fields such as engineering, agriculture, ceramics, surface coatings, absorbent materials, pharmaceuticals or catalysis. Polysaccharides, such as alginate and its acid derivatives, are biocompatible and biodegradable polymers, effective in the production of adsorbent systems, for encapsulation and controlled release of active ingredients such as drugs and fertilizers. In this work, alginate polysaccharide and alginic acid were used to form composites with laponite, both with the original clay or with clay previously functionalized with 3‐aminopropyltriethoxysilane. The properties of the composites prepared from laponite or functionalized laponite and alginic acid or alginate were compared. The interaction of laponite with alginic acid leads to composites with strong disorder in the clay structure. In all cases, composites with high contents of polysaccharides, with good thermal and mechanical properties, are obtained. Laponite‐derived composites showed high adsorption capability for Cr(III) and methylene blue from aqueous medium. Copyright © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Nanocomposites from biopolymer hydrogels: Blueprints for white biotechnology and green materials chemistry
Authors: Aimé Carole , Coradin Thibaud
Published: March 2012

Bionanocomposites based on the association between biological polymers and inorganic colloids are an emerging class of materials, with main applications in biotechnology and biomedicine. They combine the chemical diversity, hierarchical structure, and biocompatibility of natural biomacromolecules with the robustness and functionality of mineral phases. In particular, biopolymer hydrogels can act as templates and/or host matrices for nanoparticles to design bionanocomposites with tailored optical, conductive, magnetic, mechanical, and bioactive properties. This review presents the key concepts on which such materials are currently designed, in terms of chemistry and physics. Specific examples are provided to illustrate the importance of the bio‐organic/inorganic interface on the final properties of the composite structures. It is finally suggested that bionanocomposites have a major role to play for the development of green materials and bio‐responsive devices. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys, 2012
Associations between cognitive impairment in advanced cancer patients and psychiatric disorders in their caregivers
Authors: Meyer Fremonta , Zhang Baohui , Gao Xin , Prigerson Holly G.
Published: March 2012

Objective

This study examined whether cognitive impairment in advanced cancer patients is associated with a heightened frequency of psychiatric disorders in their primary caregivers.

Methods

Three hundred fifty‐six patient‐caregiver dyads were interviewed and administered the Short Portable Mental Status Questionnaire and the Structured Clinical Interview of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fourth Edition approximately 3.4 months before the patient's death. The Structured Clinical Interview of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fourth Edition was administered to caregivers again approximately 6 months after the patient's death.

Results

Forty‐six (12.9%) patients displayed signs of mild cognitive impairment at the baseline interview. After adjustment for relevant confounders, patient cognitive impairment was significantly associated with caregiver pre‐loss major depressive disorder [OR 6.88 (95% CI 1.32–35.92); p = 0.02], without associated increases in suicidality. There were no significant associations between patient cognitive impairment and caregiver pre‐loss generalized anxiety disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder, panic disorder, or grief. Likewise, there were no significant associations between patient cognitive impairment and caregiver post‐loss psychiatric disorders, but caregivers of cognitively impaired patients appeared to be less satisfied with the patient's manner of death (p = 0.01).

Conclusions

Caregivers of cognitively impaired advanced cancer patients appear at heightened risk of major depression that resolves after the patient's death. Further study with a larger sample and more sensitive longitudinal cognitive measures is indicated. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Numerical investigations of a repetitively pulsed MPD thruster
Authors: Chu Kuo‐Yuan , Kubota Kenichi , Funaki Ikkoh , Okuno Yoshihiro
Published: March 2012

Performance of a repetitively pulsed self‐field MPD thruster consisting of a flared anode and a short cathode was numerically investigated. For a time‐averaged input power of 100 kW and argon propellant, thrust and thrust efficiency were surveyed for various discharge frequencies under the condition of continuous propellant injection and a constant discharge duty ratio of 0.5. The results suggest that thrust efficiency of repetitively pulsed discharge operation can be improved up to about 16% with increasing discharge frequency owing to a relatively high time‐averaged electromagnetic thrust and an increase in aerodynamic thrust, and can surpass that of continuous discharge operation above 50 kHz. It is also shown that the frozen flow loss can be reduced by increasing discharge frequency, because the input power needed for reionization of the propellant can be suppressed. © 2012 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Paediatric multi-detector row chest CT: what you really need to know
Authors: Young Carolyn , Xie Cheng , Owens Catherine M.
Published: March 2012

Background

The emergence of multi-detector row CT (MDCT) has established and extended the role of CT especially in paediatric chest imaging. This has altered the way in which data is acquired and is perceived as the 'gold standard' in the detection of certain chest pathologies. The range of available post-processing tools provide alternative ways in which CT images can be manipulated for review and interpretation in order to enhance diagnostic accuracy.

Methodology

Paediatric imaging technique/protocol together with radiation dose reduction is discussed in detail. The use of different post-processing tools to best demonstrate the wide range of important congenital anomalies and thoracic pathologies is outlined and presented pictorially.

Conclusion

MDCT with its isotropic resolution and fast imaging acquisition times reduces the need for invasive diagnostic investigations. However, users must be vigilant in their imaging techniques to minimise radiation burden, whilst maintaining good image quality.

Main Messages

• CT examinations should be clinically justified by the referring clinician and radiologist.

• MDCT is invaluable for evaluating the central airway, mediastinal structures and lung parenchyma.

• MDCT is more sensitive than plain radiographs in detection of structural changes within the lungs.
Tumor suppressor functions of FBW7 in cancer development and progression
Authors: Wang Zhiwei , Inuzuka Hiroyuki , Zhong Jiateng , Wan Lixin , Fukushima Hidefumi , Sarkar Fazlul H. , Wei Wenyi
Published: March 2012

FBW7 (F‐box and WD repeat domain‐containing 7) has been characterized as an onco‐suppressor protein in human cancers. Recent studies have also shown that FBW7 exerts its anti‐tumor function primarily by promoting the degradation of various oncoproteins, through which FBW7 regulates cellular proliferation, differentiation and causes genetic instability. In this review, we will discuss the role of FBW7 downstream substrates and how dysregulation of Fbw7‐mediated proteolysis of these substrates contributes to tumorigenesis. Additionally, we will also summarize the currently available various Fbw7‐knockout mouse models that support Fbw7 as a tumor suppressor gene in the development and progression of human malignancies.
Geochemical features of metabasite inclusions in gray gneisses of the Baidarik block (Central Mongolia)
Authors: Belyaev V.A. , Gornova M.A. , Medvedev A.Ya. , Pakhomova N.N.
Published: March 2012

The Baidarik block of the Dzavhan microcontinent (Central Asian Fold Belt) includes the Upper Archean Baidaragin gray-gneiss complex. Among gray plagiogneisses, there are metabasic bodies, which are probably relics of early volcanics. By composition, the metabasites are divided into three petrochemical groups, whose protoliths were tholeiitic basalts, Al-undepleted and Al-depleted basaltic komatiites. Only a few samples are similar in REE composition to these protoliths. We have found metabasites with crustal-contamination features. The unusual geochemical properties of the metabasites (LREE enrichment and Nb, Zr, and Ti depletion) are related to their metasomatism.
Petrological and mineralogical features of volcanic rocks from the central Kuznetsk Basin (southern Siberia)
Authors: Nastavko A.V. , Borodina E.V. , Izokh A.E.
Published: March 2012

The Kuznetsk Basin volcanic rocks are close in age (from 252.3 ± 0.6 to 246.2 ± 1.4 Ma) to the traps of the West Siberian Plate and Siberian craton, which formed as a result of the Permo-Triassic plume activity. The geologic and petrographic features evidence that the andesitic basalts exposed in the Karakan and Elbak quarries are effusive rocks; most of them are andesitic basalts, and the rest are trachyandesitic basalts. The mineral composition is as follows: olivine Fo59–66, plagioclase An47–60, and clinopyroxene En47–42Fs25–12Wo42–33; Mg# = 82–63. Using the COMAGMAT 3.5 program, the magma crystallization conditions during the andesitic-basalt formation were determined: 1109–1105 ºC, buffer QFM-NNO. The studied rocks are enriched in LREE ((La/Yb)ch = 4.7–7.5) and are depleted in HREE ((Sm/Yb)ch = 2.0–2.8). A specific geochemical feature of the rocks is strong Nb, Ta, Ti, and Eu negative anomalies ((La/Nb)PM = 4.5–1.6, (La/Ta)PM = 3.2–2.0, Eu/Eu* = 0.7) and a positive U anomaly on their normalized element patterns; ɛNd(T) varies from +2.3 to +3.1. The HREE depletion of the Kuznetsk Basin volcanic rock points to the presence of garnet in the mantle source during their generation. The low Mg# indicates that the parental melts are not of the primary-mantle genesis but are probably the product of differentiation in deep-seated intermediate magma chambers.
Oligocene deposits of the Baikal rift valley
Authors: Mashchuk I.M. , Akulov N.I.
Published: March 2012

New data are reported on the stratigraphy of the Oligocene deposits of Lake Baikal (the Tankhoi field, the outcrops near the mouths of the Osinovka, Polovinka, and Klyuevka Rivers). Detailed paleontological analysis of the key sections on the continental part of the Baikal eastern coast revealed four floristic horizons that could be used as indicator horizons and showed that the Tankhoi Formation formed throughout the Oligocene and at the early Early Miocene. Lithologically, blue vivianite clays and coal beds could be used as the most important indicator horizons. Formation of the deposits began after a long stratigraphic break from the Early Cretaceous to the Early Oligocene. The deposits were formed by erosion and denudation of weathering crust and accumulation of redeposited weathering residues in the Tankhoi paleobasin with a lacustrine-marsh landscape. Coarse-clastic foehn deposits of the Osinovka Formation, containing rich Miocene palynological assemblages, were eroded and overlie concordantly the Upper Tankhoi Subformation and redeposited weathering residues of the weathering crust, and underlie the Anosovka Formation. The study suggests that the Baikal rift valley began to form at 38 Ma.
Compositional, structural, and geodynamic controls of the evolution of inter- and intramontane basins of the Tien Shan
Authors: Makarov V.I.
Published: March 2012

The crustal orogeny which formed the present-day Tien Shan results from the complex interaction between two independent processes. The first is the lateral (horizontal) compression related to the collision between the Indian and Eurasian Plates. The second is the rearrangement and flow of crustal material at different levels of the lithosphere beneath the mountain belt. Two broad morphologic and genetic types of mountain basins (intramontane and intermontane/foreland) are proposed as indicators of specific geodynamic factors controlling the topographic relief of the orogenic belt. The first-type basins, having the upper crustal roots, reflect mainly the N–S crustal compression and correspond to simple (elementary) longitudinal folds with basement involvement. The second type basins developed mostly in response to deep processes in the upper mantle and lower crust.
Comparison of the Adult Comorbidity Evaluation 27 and the Charlson Comorbidity indices in patients with laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Nesic V S , Petrovic Z M , Sipetic S B , Jesic S D , Soldatovic I A , Kastratovic D A
Published: March 2012

Objective:

This study aimed to compare the prognostic impact of comorbidity grading by the Adult Comorbidity Evaluation 27 index and the Charlson Comorbidity Index on the five-year overall and disease-specific survival in patients undergoing surgery for laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma.

Methods:

The impact of comorbidity and other factors on survival was examined retrospectively in a group of 177 patients with previously untreated tumour stage one to four laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma surgically treated at the Clinic of Otorhinolaryngology and Maxillofacial Surgery, Clinical Centre of Serbia, between 2000 and 2003. The Cox proportional hazard model was used to identify independent prognostic factors.

Results:

On univariate analysis, comorbidity had an impact on prognosis regardless of which index was used. On multivariate analysis, the significant predictors of patients' five-year overall and disease-specific survival were tumour–node–metastasis stage and comorbidity as graded by the Adult Comorbidity Evaluation 27 index.

Conclusion:

The Adult Comorbidity Evaluation 27 index is a more reliable predictor of survival than the Charlson Comorbidity Index in patients with laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma.