bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Resource allocation algorithms for minimum rates scheduling in MIMO‐OFDM systems
Authors: Klotz Johannes Georg , Knabe Frederic , Huppert Carolin
Published: May 2010

In this paper, we consider a multiple‐input‐multiple‐output‐orthogonal frequency division multiplexing (MIMO‐OFDM) downlink scenario, where each receiving mobile station has quality of service requirements, namely minimum rate requirements. For this problem we propose three heuristic resource allocation algorithms, which have a much lower complexity than the existing optimal solution (opt). We compare and evaluate these algorithms according to sum rate performance and complexity. The first strategy is based on a heuristic sum rate maximisation algorithm using the so‐called eigenvalue updates. In our second algorithm, we make use of the duality of uplink and downlink, which allows us to do the allocation in the dual uplink. Finally, our third algorithm is based on the well‐known zero‐forcing dirty paper coding (ZF‐DPC) principles, which use the Gram‐‐Schmidt process to orthogonalise the transmissions towards the different users. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A new and efficient sensory method for a comprehensive assessment of the sensory quality of dried aroma‐intensive herbs using oregano as a reference plant
Authors: Bansleben Anne‐Christin , Schellenberg Ingo , Ulrich Detlef , Bansleben David
Published: May 2010

Today the world market for oregano has exploded, from a once insignificant amount to a consumption volume of 500 000 tonnes/year. This is due to consumers' change in preference for Mediterranean‐style cooking and innovative cosmetic‐ and health‐related products. Since there are currently only three genotypes on the European food market, the diversity of human taste requires the breeding of new and sensorily interesting varieties. When investigating the profiles, it is necessary to establish methods suitable for characterizing the odour, taste and even retronasal odour of strong aromatic herbs. This paper is able to fulfil these requirements. In summary, these results found the tested specimens – a commonly traded blend, Origanum onites, Origanum vulgare subsp. hirtum and a blend of all three specimens – to be very dissimilar. The analysis results in a reduction in the number of relevant attributes for sensory testing and the establishment of an oregano profile with high marketing potential. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Anisotropic magnetic susceptibility record of the kinematics of the Boltaña Anticline (Southern Pyrenees)
Authors: Mochales T. , Pueyo E. L. , Casas A. M. , Barnolas A. , Oliva‐Urcia B.
Published: May 2010

Anisotropic magnetic susceptibility (AMS) analysis of 1454 samples evenly distributed along an 1800 m section in the South Pyrenean Zone is presented. The sampled rocks are pre‐ and syn‐tectonic limestones, marls and sandstones of Ypresian‐Lutetian age. They are weakly deformed rocks sampled from both limbs of the N–S trending Boltaña Anticline (oblique to the WNW–ESE main Pyrenean trend). Rock magnetism analyses, including low temperature and high field magnetic susceptibility measurements confirm a dominant paramagnetic signal and hence allow the interpretation of AMS in terms of preferred rock fabric or finite strain orientation. Therefore, this study was focused on obtaining an independent kinematic information from a vast set of AMS data from particular structural positions. The three directional maxima for the maximum axis of the magnetic ellipsoid (KMAX, magnetic lineation) can be tentatively related to major tectonic events in the Central Pyrenees. A first stage (recording a N–S magnetic lineation) is related to an oblique ramp of the Cotiella Thrust, emplaced during Ypresian times. A pseudo‐progressive variation turns into a second stage (linked to a NW–SE KMAX orientation maximum) that can be related to Pyrenean compression. Both stages witness a far‐field imprint of active structures on the foreland sediments. Once the Boltaña Anticline was nucleated (during the Lutetian), a predominant, more constant NW–SE trend is observed, this near‐field magnetic fabric being the only lineation imprinted in the rocks. A final stage arrived in the course of vertical axis rotation during the Late Lutetian‐Bartonian. This latest event was responsible for the present configuration of the Boltaña Anticline (N–S). Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Eye muscle proprioception is represented bilaterally in the sensorimotor cortex
Authors: Balslev Daniela , Albert Neil B. , Miall Chris
Published: May 2010

The cortical representation of eye position is still uncertain. In the monkey a proprioceptive representation of the extraocular muscles (EOM) of an eye were recently found within the contralateral central sulcus. In humans, we have previously shown a change in the perceived position of the right eye after a virtual lesion with rTMS over the left somatosensory area. However, it is possible that the proprioceptive representation of the EOM extends to other brain sites, which were not examined in these previous studies. The aim of this fMRI study was to sample the whole brain to identify the proprioceptive representation for the left and the right eye separately. Data were acquired while passive eye movement was used to stimulate EOM proprioceptors in the absence of a motor command. We also controlled for the tactile stimulation of the eyelid by removing from the analysis voxels activated by eyelid touch alone. For either eye, the brain area commonly activated by passive and active eye movement was located bilaterally in the somatosensory area extending into the motor and premotor cytoarchitectonic areas. We suggest this is where EOM proprioception is processed. The bilateral representation for either eye contrasts with the contralateral representation of hand proprioception. We suggest that the proprioceptive representation of the two eyes next to each other in either somatosensory cortex and extending into the premotor cortex reflects the integrative nature of the eye position sense, which combines proprioceptive information across the two eyes with the efference copy of the oculomotor command. Hum Brain Mapp, 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The supraspinal neural correlate of bladder cold sensation—An fMRI study
Authors: Mehnert Ulrich , Michels Lars , Zempleni Monika‐Zita , Schurch Brigitte , Kollias Spyros
Published: May 2010

In recent years, functional imaging studies have revealed a supraspinal network, which is involved in perception and processing of bladder distention. Very little information exists on the cortical representation of C‐fiber transmitted temperature sensation of the human bladder, although C‐fibers seem to be involved in the pathomechanisms of bladder dysfunctions. Our aim was, therefore, to evaluate the outcome of bladder cold stimulation on supraspinal activity using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). A block design fMRI study was performed in 14 healthy females at the MR‐center of the University of Zurich. After catheterization, all subjects were investigated in a 3.0‐Tesla Scanner. The scanning consisted of 10 repetitive cycles. Each cycle consisted of five conditions: REST, INFUSION, SENSATION, DRAIN 1, and DRAIN 2. Cold saline was passively infused at 4–8°C during scanning. Not more than 100 ml were infused per cycle. Blood‐oxygen‐level‐dependent (BOLD) signal analysis of the different conditions was compared to REST. All activations were evaluated on a random effects level at P = 0.001. Activation of brain regions for bladder cold stimulation (DRAIN 1 period) was found bilaterally in the inferior parietal lobe [Brodmann area (BA) 40], the right insula (BA 13), the right cerebellar posterior lobe, the right middle temporal gyrus (BA 20), and the right postcentral gyrus (BA 3). In conclusion, bladder cooling caused a different supraspinal activation pattern compared to what is known to occur during bladder distention. This supports our hypothesis that cold sensation is processed differently from bladder distension at the supraspinal level. Hum Brain Mapp, 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Identification of dihydropyrimidinase‐related protein 4 as a novel target of the p53 tumor suppressor in the apoptotic response to DNA damage
Authors: Kimura Junko , Kudoh Takuya , Miki Yoshio , Yoshida Kiyotsugu
Published: May 2010

The p53 tumor suppressor gene, which is frequently mutated in a wide variety of tumors, plays an important role in maintaining genomic integrity. Following genotoxic insults, the protein level of p53 is increased, and p53 functions as a sequence‐specific transcription factor that regulates the expression of downstream target genes required for cell cycle arrest, DNA repair or apoptosis. However, the mechanism for p53‐inducible apoptosis remains largely unclear. To search novel downstream targets of p53 on apoptosis, we had carried out microarray analysis. We identified dihydropyrimidinase‐related protein (DPYSL) 4 gene, which was upregulated by overexpressing p53 in p53‐deficient cells. Both mRNA and protein expressions of DPYSL4 were specifically induced by anticancer agents in p53‐proficient cells. Further analyses demonstrated that DPYSL4 was a direct target for p53. We also found that genotoxic‐induced apoptosis was repressed in cells silenced for DPYSL4. These findings indicate that DPYSL4 is a novel apoptosis‐inducible factor controlled by p53 in response to DNA damage.
Therapeutic applications of bioactive sphingolipids in hematological malignancies
Authors: Ekiz Huseyin Atakan , Baran Yusuf
Published: May 2010

Sphingolipids are sphingosine‐based lipid molecules that have important functions in cellular signal transduction and in a variety of cellular processes including proliferation, differentiation, programmed cell death (apoptosis) and responses to stressful conditions. Ceramides, dihydroceramide, sphingosine and sphingosine‐1‐phosphate are examples of those bioactive sphingolipids. They have a major impact on determination of the cell fate by contributing to the cell survival or cell death through apoptosis. Despite the number of carbon atoms in the fatty acid chain changes the physiological role; ceramides generally exert suppressive roles on the cell proliferation. There have been several enzymes identified in this pathway that are responsible for the conversion of ceramide into other sphingolipid derivatives. Those derivatives also have differential roles on those cellular processes. Sphingosine‐1‐phosphate is an example of such sphingolipid derivatives which has antiapoptotic effects. As they have significant impacts particularly on the cell death and survival, bioactive sphingolipids have a great potential to be targets in cancer therapy. Increasing number of studies indicates that sphingolipid derivatives are important in the progression of hematological malignancies, and they are also involved in the resistance to current chemotherapeutic options. This review compiles the current knowledge in this area for enlightening the therapeutic potentials of bioactive sphingolipids in various leukemias.
Wear pattern observations from TDR retrievals using autoregistration of voxel data
Authors: Shkolnikov Yakov P. , Bowden Anton , MacDonald Daniel , Kurtz Steven M.
Published: May 2010

Because of their unique geometry, characterization of wear damage in total disc replacement (TDR) is difficult. In the article, we developed and validated an automated damage calculation technique for explanted TDR components. Eight polyethylene cores implanted from 4.6 to 16.0 years were using cone‐beam microCT imaging (SCANCO Medical, Switzerland). The nominal uniform voxel size for the implant under investigation was 18 μm, however with a smaller sample size increased resolutions (10‐μm nominal voxel size) could be achieved using the same microCT imaging hardware. Nominal surface data for both sizes of TDR components we examined were obtained from manufacturer's drawings (Link, Germany) and converted to highly discretized triangular meshes. The damage calculation technique utilized an initial alignment phase, followed by a pointwise calculation of the linear damage at each 3D surface point. During the alignment phase, a three‐dimensional surface of the undamaged component was automatically aligned with volumetric image data from the damaged component. The alignment algorithm maximized the contact area between undamaged portions of the implant and its nominal surface using an iterative optimization technique. Linear damage at each triangle on the nominal surface was computed by moving along the local normal of the surface both inward and outward direction for a distance much less than the size of the implant. For the retrieved components, the maximum damage occurred away from the central axis of the dome close to the rim. Penetrations of up to 0.8 mm were observed in this region. Lower magnitude penetrations were observed near the pole of the dome. In conclusion, we have developed an analytical method to automatically align and measure three‐dimensional surface damage with both high resolution and accuracy on implants with complicated, nonparametric, surface geometry and used this technique to analyze eight implants. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater, 2010.
New parameterization approaches of the LIE method to improve free energy calculations of PlmII‐Inhibitors complexes
Authors: Valiente Pedro A. , Gil L. Alejandro , Batista Paulo R. , Caffarena Ernesto R. , Pons Tirso , Pascutti Pedro G
Published: May 2010

The standard parameterization of the Linear Interaction Energy (LIE) method has been applied with quite good results to reproduce the experimental absolute binding free energies for several protein–ligand systems. However, we found that this parameterization failed to reproduce the experimental binding free energy of Plasmepsin II (PlmII) in complexes with inhibitors belonging to four dissimilar scaffolds. To overcome this fact, we developed three approaches of LIE, which combine systematic approaches to predict the inhibitor‐specific values of α, β, and γ parameters, to gauge their ability to calculate the absolute binding free energies for these PlmII‐Inhibitor complexes. Specifically: (i) we modified the linear relationship between the weighted nonpolar desolvation ratio (WNDR) and the α parameter, by introducing two models of the β parameter determined by the free energy perturbation (FEP) method in the absence of the constant term γ, and (ii) we developed a new parameterization model to investigate the linear correlation between WNDR and the correction term γ. Using these parameterizations, we were able to reproduce the experimental binding free energy from these systems with mean absolute errors lower than 1.5 kcal/mol. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem 2010
Sickle cell anemia and vascular dysfunction: The nitric oxide connection
Authors: Akinsheye Idowu , Klings Elizabeth S.
Published: May 2010

Endothelial dysfunction and impaired nitric oxide bioavailability have been implicated in the pathogenesis of sickle cell anemia. Nitric oxide is a diatomic gas with a role in vascular homeostasis. Hemoglobin polymerization resulting from the HbS mutation produces erythrocyte deformation and hemolysis. Free hemoglobin, released into plasma by hemolysis scavenges on nitric oxide, and leads to reduced nitric oxide bioavailability. Pulmonary hypertension is a known consequence of sickle cell anemia. It occurs in 30–40% of patients with sickle cell anemia, and is associated with increased mortality. Several studies have implicated intravascular hemolysis, and impaired nitric oxide bioavailability in the pathogenesis of pulmonary hypertension. In this review, we summarize the mechanisms of altered nitric oxide bioavailability in sickle cell anemia and its possible role in the pathogenesis of pulmonary hypertension. J. Cell. Physiol. 224: 620–625, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Differential modulation of N‐type calcium channels by µ‐opioid receptors in oxytocinergic versus vasopressinergic neurohypophysial terminals
Authors: Ortiz‐Miranda Sonia I. , Dayanithi Govindan , Velázquez‐Marrero Cristina , Custer Edward E. , Treistman Steven N. , Lemos José R.
Published: May 2010

Opioids modulate the electrical activity of magnocellular neurons (MCN) and inhibit neuropeptide release at their terminals in the neurohypophysis. We have previously shown that µ‐opioid receptor (MOR) activation induces a stronger inhibition of oxytocin (OT) than vasopressin (AVP) release from isolated MCN terminals. This higher sensitivity of OT release is due, at least in part, to the selective targeting of R‐type calcium channels. We now describe the underlying basis for AVP's weaker inhibition by MOR activation and provide a more complete explanation of the complicated effects on neuropeptide release. We found that N‐type calcium channels in AVP terminals are differentially modulated by MOR; enhanced at lower concentrations but increasingly inhibited at higher concentrations of agonists. On the other hand, N‐type calcium channels in OT terminals were always inhibited. The response pattern in co‐labeled terminals was analogous to that observed in AVP‐containing terminals. Changes in intracellular calcium concentration and neuropeptide release corroborated these results as they showed a similar pattern of enhancement and inhibition in AVP terminals contrasting with solely inhibitory responses in OT terminals to MOR agonists. We established that fast translocation of Ca2+channels to the plasma membrane was not mediating current increments and thus, changes in channel kinetic properties are most likely involved. Finally, we reveal a distinct Ca‐channel β‐subunit expression between each type of nerve endings that could explain some of the differences in responses to MOR activation. These results help advance our understanding of the complex modulatory mechanisms utilized by MORs in regulating presynaptic neuropeptide release. J. Cell. Physiol. 225: 276–288, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Removal of heavy metals from municipal solid waste incineration (MSWI) fly ash by traditional and microwave acid extraction
Authors: Xue Jun , Wang Wei , Wang Qunhui , Liu Shu , Yang Jie , Wui Tingji
Published: May 2010

BACKGROUND: Municipal solid waste incinerator (MSWI) fly ash is regarded as hazardous waste because it contains various toxic metals. A previous study has shown that fly ash can be detoxified by removal of heavy metals. In this work, the extractability of heavy metals from MSWI fly ash by traditional and microwave acid extraction were compared.

RESULTS: A 24 − 1 fractional factorial experimental design was adopted using acid concentration, extraction time, temperature, and liquid/solid (L/S) ratio as the experimental factors for traditional extraction, and acid concentration, extraction time, liquid/solid (L/S) ratio and microwave power as the experimental factors for microwave extraction. The traditional extraction results show that L/S played an important role in Zn, Cd extraction while L/S ratio and extractant concentration were important for Pb extraction. However, no controlling parameter was determined for Cu and Cr extraction. For the microwave extraction, it was shown that L/S was important for Pb and Zn and extractant concentration was important for Pb, Zn and Cd. The time and the power were not significant for the extractability of heavy metals.

CONCLUSION: Hydrochloric acid was an effective extractant. Microwave heating promoted extraction and shortened extraction time. Microwave acid extraction treatment is a potentially feasible method for the removal of heavy metals from MSWI fly ash. Copyright © 2010 Society of Chemical Industry
Application of a microassay method to study enzymatic hydrolysis of pretreated wheat straw
Authors: Alvira Pablo , Negro María José , Sáez Felicia , Ballesteros Mercedes
Published: May 2010

BACKGROUND: The conversion of lignocellulosic biomass to ethanol includes a disruptive pretreatment process followed by enzyme‐catalyzed hydrolysis of the cellulose and hemicellulose components to fermentable sugars. As the cost and hydrolytic efficiency of enzymes are major factors that restrict the commercialization of biomass conversion processes, significant efforts are made nowadays to improve the enzymatic mixtures and make the process cost‐effective.

RESULTS: In this work, enzymatic microassays have been developed and validated to test new different enzymatic formulations on real lignocellulosic substrates. Homogeneous handsheets from steam pretreated wheat straw were elaborated to be used as substrate. The microassay was adapted to test both water‐insoluble solids and the whole slurry as substrates. Results in hydrolysis microassays were comparable with those obtained in standard flask assays using pretreated wheat straw. Moreover, using the enzymatic microassays, two novel preparations have been evaluated, demonstrating the ability of microassays to discriminate between different enzymatic mixtures.

CONCLUSIONS: This enzymatic microassay represents a rapid method to test the performance of new selected cellulase enzymes on real pretreated lignocellulosic substrates. This microassay will enable evaluation of enzyme components separately, or optimized mixtures. Copyright © 2010 Society of Chemical Industry
SEM evaluation of thermoplastic endodontic materials alterations after disinfection: A new experimental model
Authors: Grecca Fabiana Soares , Porto Marcos , Fontanella Vania Regina Camargo , Scarparo Roberta Kochenborger
Published: May 2010

This study assessed a new experimental model to analyze the effects of sodium hypochlorite solution 2.5% for 10 min and chlorhexidine 2% for 15 s on cones surface alterations. Twenty five gutta‐percha and 25 thermoplastic synthetic polymer‐based cones had their last 1 mm from the tapered end examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) before and after being exposed to the disinfectant solutions. To allow the surfaces to be compared, the samples were not metalized, a voltage of 1 kV was used and the images were captured within standardized angles. The samples were immersed on the test solutions. The comparison of the alterations of the cones was performed using the software program Adobe Photoshop CS. A measurement was taken of the standard deviations of the pixel intensity in this area, higher standard deviations represent more irregular areas. Differences in standard deviation before and after disinfection for each cone were compared between groups by means of analysis of variance supplemented by the Tukey test. Gutta‐percha cones showed higher standard deviations than Resilon cones (P < 0.001). In the gutta‐percha cones, sodium hypochlorite generated more irregular areas than chlorhexidine and the control group (P < 0.001). The present study has demonstrated the feasibility of using a modified SEM method. This opens opportunities to the use of new and precise tools for evaluating a sample in different moments. Microsc. Res. Tech. 74:109‐112, 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Combination of normal light and fluorescence microscopy for authentication of five Lonicera species flower buds
Authors: Chu Chu , Liu Hui‐Juan , Qi Lian‐Wen , Liu E‐Hu , Li Ping
Published: May 2010

The flower buds of five Lonicera species, Lonicera japonica Thunb., L. macranthoides Hand.‐Mazz., L. hypoglauca Miq., L. confusa DC. and L. fulvotomentosa Hsu et S.C. Cheng are confusable and usually utilized under the same name “Jinyinhua” in different areas for morphological similarity. Studies found that these five species possess extreme differences in chemical compounds, correspondingly showing different pharmacological activities and clinical applications. To ensure efficacy and safety of these herbal medicines and prevent unknown adverse effect, in this work, a simple, rapid and effective method combining normal light and fluorescence microscopy was developed for authentication. Surface slides and transverse sections of these buds were investigated to reveal their differences. As a routine technique, normal light microscopy which gives detailed microscopic features such as glandular hairs and nonglandular hairs, can easily distinguish four species except L. confusa. Fluorescence technique, which could present different distribution of fluorescence materials, is further employed to identify three species including L. confusa successfully. It is the first report to identify these five Lonicera species by combining normal light and fluorescence microscopy. This work indicated combining normal light and fluorescence microscopy could be a powerful method in authentication of confused species. Microsc. Res. Tech.74:133–141, 2011. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Testing the hypothesis of morphological integration on a skull of a vertebrate with a biphasic life cycle: a case study of the alpine newt
Authors: Ivanović Ana , Kalezić Miloš L.
Published: May 2010

In this article, we explore the possible influences of the developmental and functional relationships between skeletal elements on the pattern of morphological integration in the adult skull of the alpine newt. Like many tailed amphibians, the alpine newt has a biphasic life cycle, which implies the possibility that two distinct sets of constraints on development and function of the cranial skeleton may act at different times. We study how trait covariation, resulting from processes early in development, affects patterns of covariation at the adult stage. We test whether the observed patterns of integration are consistent with those predicted from three a priori hypothesized sources of integration: developmental timing, hormonally mediated growth/remodeling during metamorphosis, and developmental and functional relationships. The analyses of the covariation among the landmarks in the dorsal and ventral alpine newt craniums yield somewhat contrasting results. Our results do not indicate a clear correspondence between the observed variations in the skull shape and any of the three proposed hypotheses. No traceable reflection of hypothesized developmental relationships in the pattern of morphological integration/modularity in the adult skull indicate that covariation structure is continually restructured by overlaying variation introduced through developmental and environmental factors at different stages of development. This finding supports the recently elaborated palimpsest view of morphological integration. Also, our results indicate that the allometry‐free shape data have an even higher level of morphological integration than the data that contain the allometric component of the shape variation. J. Exp. Zool. (Mol. Dev. Evol.) 314B:527–538, 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Fiscal capacity and multiple‐equilibria of corruption: Cross‐country evidence
Authors: Munim Joarder Mohammad Abdul
Published: May 2010

We test the proposition that higher initial fiscal capacity of a nation strengthens law and order, and therefore, inhibit corruption, and in a multiple‐equilibria setting, the economy will move towards the low‐corruption stable equilibrium. We have found a significant relationship between more initial fiscal capacity and less corruption in a large cross‐section of countries that became independent after World War II. Our findings also suggest that higher initial revenue capacity is a necessary condition but not a sufficient condition to reduce corruption. A government's willingness (benevolence) is also needed to combat corruption. Both of these variables help the economy to converge towards a ‘low‐corruption stable equilibrium’. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
DO COMMON GLOBAL ECONOMIC FACTORS MATTER FOR AFRICA'S ECONOMIC GROWTH?
Authors: Bangwayo‐Skeete Prosper F.
Published: May 2010

Empirical research has generally attributed the dismal performance of Africa's economic growth to country‐specific socio‐economic and geo‐political factors. This paper shows that while country‐specific issues matter for Africa's economic growth, common global economic factors do matter as well. The importance of common global economic factors has been augmented by increased globalization, the introduction of the World Trade Organization and the current global economic crisis. Using system GMM panel data techniques that extend previous literature on Africa's growth, the estimation results provide new insights into the positive relationship between the world business cycle and the growth rates of African countries. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Freehand MRI‐guided preoperative needle localization of breast lesions after MRI‐guided vacuum‐assisted core needle biopsy without marker placement
Authors: van de Ven Stephanie M.W.Y. , Lin Margaret C. , Daniel Bruce L. , Sareen Priya , Lipson Jafi A. , Pal Sunita , Dirbas Frederick M. , Ikeda Debra M.
Published: May 2010

Purpose:

To evaluate the feasibility of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)‐guided preoperative needle localization (PNL) of breast lesions previously sampled by MRI‐guided vacuum‐assisted core needle biopsy (VACNB) without marker placement.

Materials and Methods:

We reviewed 15 women with 16 breast lesions undergoing MRI‐guided VACNB without marker placement who subsequently underwent MRI‐guided PNL, both on an open 0.5T magnet using freehand techniques. Mammograms and specimen radiographs were rated for lesion visibility; MRI images were rated for lesion visibility and hematoma formation. Imaging findings were correlated with pathology.

Results:

The average prebiopsy lesion size was 16 mm (range 4–50 mm) with 13/16 lesions located in mammographically dense breasts. Eight hematomas formed during VACNB (average size 13 mm, range 8–19 mm). PNL was performed for VACNB pathologies of cancer (5), high‐risk lesions (5), or benign but discordant findings (6) at 2–78 days following VACNB. PNL targeted the lesion (2), hematoma (4), or surrounding breast architecture (10). Wire placement was successful in all 16 lesions. Final pathology showed six cancers, five high‐risk lesions, and five benign findings.

Conclusion:

MRI‐guided PNL is successful in removing lesions that have previously undergone VACNB without marker placement by targeting the residual lesion, hematoma, or surrounding breast architecture, even in mammographically dense breasts. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2010. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Interferon‐γ inhibits central nervous system myelination through both STAT1‐dependent and STAT1‐independent pathways
Authors: Lin Wensheng , Lin Yifeng
Published: May 2010

The immune cytokine interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ) plays a crucial role in immune‐mediated demyelinating diseases such as multiple sclerosis and experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). Our previous studies have shown that enforced expression of IFN‐γ in the central nervous system (CNS) inhibits developmental myelination or remyelination in EAE demyelinated lesions. Although many of the cellular actions of IFN‐γ result from its activation of the signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (STAT1) pathway, recent studies have shown that STAT1‐independent pathways regulate some facets of IFN‐γ biology. In this study, we dissected the role ofSTAT1‐dependent and STAT1‐independent pathways in IFN‐γ‐induced hypomyelination using a genetic approach. We found that the induction of STAT1‐dependent, IFN‐γ‐responsive genes in response to this cytokine was abolished in the CNS of STAT1 null mice. Moreover, STAT1 deletion diminished oligodendrocyte loss, reduction of myelinated axons, and the inflammatory response in the CNS of transgenic mice that ectopically expressed IFN‐γ in the CNS. Nevertheless, IFN‐γ‐induced reduction of myelin sheath thickness in the CNS of these mice was not altered by STAT1 deletion. Collectively, these data demonstrate that both STAT1‐dependent and STAT1‐independent pathways are involved in the detrimental effects of IFN‐γ on the myelination process. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Electromagnetic induction heating of an orthopaedic nickel–titanium shape memory device
Authors: Müller Christian W. , Pfeifer Ronny , El‐Kashef Tarek , Hurschler Christof , Herzog Dirk , Oszwald Markus , Haasper Carl , Krettek Christian , Gösling Thomas
Published: May 2010

Shape memory orthopaedic implants made from nickel–titanium (NiTi) might allow the modulation of fracture healing, changing their cross‐sectional shape by employing the shape memory effect. We aimed to show the feasibility and safety of contact‐free electromagnetic induction heating of NiTi implants in a rat model. A water‐cooled generator–oscillator combination was used. Induction characteristics were determined by measuring the temperature increase of a test sample in correlation to generator power and time. In 53 rats, NiTi implants were introduced into the right hind leg. The animals were transferred to the inductor, and the implant was electromagnetically heated to temperatures between 40 and 60°C. Blood samples were drawn before and 4 h after the procedure. IL‐1, IL‐4, IL‐10, TNF‐α, and IFN‐γ were measured. Animals were euthanized at 3 weeks. Histological specimens from the hind leg and liver were retrieved and examined for inflammatory changes, necrosis, and corrosion pits. Cytokine measurements and histological specimens showed no significant differences among the groups. We concluded that electromagnetic induction heating of orthopedic NiTi implants is feasible and safe in a rat model. This is the first step in the development of new orthopedic implants in which stiffness or rigidity can be modified after implantation to optimize bone‐healing. © 2010 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 28:1671–1676, 2010
Denoising of spectra with no user input: a spline‐smoothing algorithm
Authors: Rowlands Christopher J. , Elliott Stephen R.
Published: May 2010

A new method has been developed for denoising a spectrum using cubic‐spline smoothing, which requires no user input or judgement, yet outperforms other more conventional algorithms. It relies only on the assumptions that the spectrum is sampled at a resolution much higher than the full‐width at half maximum of any peaks, and that the noise is approximately Gaussian distributed, although any other type of noise distribution is acceptable so long as the type of distribution is known. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Clinical outcomes of minimally invasive surgery using acridine orange for musculoskeletal sarcomas around the forearm, compared with conventional limb salvage surgery after wide resection
Authors: Matsubara Takao , Kusuzaki Katsuyuki , Matsumine Akihiko , Murata Hiroaki , Nakamura Tomoki , Uchida Atsumasa , Sudo Akihiro
Published: May 2010

Background and Objectives

We recently developed and established a new surgical therapy combining photodynamic surgery and radiodynamic therapy using acridine orange (AO) therapy after marginal or intralesional tumor resection, providing excellent limb function to sarcoma patients. The present study evaluated local recurrence rate and limb function using Disability of Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) score of patients with primary musculoskeletal sarcoma around the forearm treated with AO therapy, compared to that of patients treated with conventional wide resection.

Methods

Subjects were 18 patients with primary musculoskeletal sarcoma around the forearm and treated with AO therapy (AO: n = 8) after marginal or intralesional resection, or conventional wide resection followed by limb reconstruction surgery (WR: n = 10).

Results

Mean age of the 18 patients was 45 years, and mean durations of follow‐up for Groups AO and WR were 67 and 74.1 months. Local recurrence rates for AO and WR were 12.5% and 20% (P = 0.63), DASH disability scores were 3.9 and 21 (P = 0.04), and 5‐year survival rates were 100% and 90% (P = 0.40), respectively.

Conclusions

AO therapy offers maintenance of excellent upper limb function and inhibition of local tumor recurrence, representing a useful modality for limb salvage surgery in patients with sarcoma around the forearm. J. Surg. Oncol. 2010;102:271–275. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
An evolution of clinical application of inferior pedicle based rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap for repair of perineal defects after radical surgery for cancer
Authors: Shukla H.S. , Tewari Mallika
Published: May 2010

The inferior epigastric artery based rectus abdominis myocutaneous flap (RAMF) is one of the most versatile flaps used to bridge gaps in the perineum and groin, in the reconstruction of vagina after radical resections for cancer and in selected patients with benign and non‐healing perineal lesions. Its use for reconstruction after Abdomino‐perineal resection was first described in 1984. This review attempts to summarize the anatomic‐technical aspects of inferiorly based RAMF and its applications. J. Surg. Oncol. 2010;102:287–294. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The prediction of lymph node metastasis in ductal carcinoma in situ with microinvasion by assessing lymphangiogenesis
Authors: Lee Se Kyung , Cho Eun Yoon , Kim Wan Wook , Kim Sung Hoon , Hur Sung Mo , Kim Sangmin , Choe Jun‐Ho , Kim Jung‐Han , Kim Jee Soo , Lee Jeong Eon , Nam Seok Jin , Yang Jung‐Hyun
Published: May 2010

Background and Objectives

Lymph node (LN) metastasis of ductal carcinoma in situ with microinvasion (DCISM) is variable (0–14%). To ascertain the role of lymphangiogenesis in LN metastasis in DCISM, we compared the lymphatic vessel density with the presence of LN metastasis in a group of patients that underwent axillary dissection with breast surgery due to DCISM.

Methods

We identified 46 patients with a diagnosis of DCISM who underwent breast surgery with axillary dissection to evaluate LN status from June 1996 to March 2008. Microvessel density (MVD) and lymphatic vessel density (LVD) was measured by immunohistochemical staining with two markers, CD34 and D2‐40.

Results

LVD of the patients with LN metastasis was significantly higher than that of the patients without LN metastasis (P = 0.04). Correlation in the total score of progesterone receptor and LN metastasis was also noted (P = 0.017). There was no statistically significant relation between LVD and clinicopathologic parameters such as size and type of underlying DCIS, nuclear grade, presence of lymphovascular invasion, hormone receptor, and HER‐2 status.

Conclusions

Lymphangiogenesis may be significantly associated with LN metastasis in DCISM. This is the first attempt to predict axillary LN metastasis in DCISM by quantifying the LVD. J. Surg. Oncol. 2010;102:225–229. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A nomogram to predict for malignant diagnosis of BI‐RADS category 4 breast lesions
Authors: Mazouni Chafika , Sneige Nour , Rouzier Roman , Balleyguier Corinne , Bevers Therese , André Fabrice , Vielh Philippe , Delaloge Suzette
Published: May 2010

Background and Objective

BI‐RADS Category classification is the most powerful predictor of breast cancer (BC). However, BI‐RADS Category 4 lesions are associated with a highly variable rate of BC. The purpose of this study was to develop and validate a nomogram for the prediction of individual probability of BC in patients with BI‐RADS Category 4 lesions.

Methods

The study included all patients with BI‐RADS Category 4 lesions at screening mammogram, who underwent diagnostic cytology or biopsy and, as needed, surgery or follow‐up. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to develop the model and build the nomogram. This nomogram was evaluated on a training set of 170 patients treated at IGR Cancer Center, Paris, France. Nomogram performance was evaluated on an external independent dataset of 188 patients from MDA Cancer Center, Houston, Texas.

Results

A total of 51 (28.5%) patients in the training set and 73 (42.4%) patients in the validation set were diagnosed with BC. The final, most informative, nomogram included information on patient age (P = 0.04), palpable tumor (P = 0.002), menopausal status (P = 0.32), lesion size (P = 0.81), HRT (P = 0.09), and Gail risk (P = 0.58). The predictive accuracy of the nomogram was 0.716, respectively. The concordance index of the model was 0.66 in the validation set.

Conclusion

The nomogram based on clinical and radiological findings may help inform the patients before surgical explorations, to decrease the number of missed cancer cases but currently cannot replace FNA or biopsy. J. Surg. Oncol. 2010;102:220–224. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Development and validation of an improved reversed‐phase liquid chromatographic method combined with pulsed electrochemical detection for the analysis of netilmicin
Authors: Manyanga Vicky , Hoogmartens Jos , Adams Erwin
Published: May 2010

Netilmicin is one of the aminoglycoside antibiotics that lacks a strong UV absorbing chromophore. However, the application of pulsed electrochemical detection has been used successfully for the direct analysis of aminoglycoside antibiotics. This study describes an improved LC method combined with pulsed electrochemical detection for the analysis of netilmicin. Using a Zorbax SB C‐18 column (250 mm×4.6 mm id, 5 μm), isocratic elution was carried out with a mobile phase containing sodium sulfate (20 g/L), sodium octanesulfonate (0.3 g/L), THF (20 mL/L), and 0.2 M phosphate buffer pH 3.0 (50.0 mL/L). The robustness of the method was examined by means of an experimental design. The method proved to be sensitive, repeatable, linear, and robust. The method has also been used to analyze some commercial netilmicin samples.
Enantioselective separation of the carfentrazone‐ethyl enantiomers in soil, water and wheat by HPLC
Authors: Li Yuanbo , Dong Fengshou , Liu Xingang , Xu Jun , Chen Wuying , Cheng Li , Ning Ping , Li Jing , Wang Yunhao , Zheng Yongquan
Published: May 2010

A simple enantioselective HPLC method was developed for measuring carfentrazone‐ethyl enantiomers. The separation and determination was accomplished on an amylose tris[(S)‐α‐methylbenzylcarbamate] (Chiralpak AS) column using n‐hexane/ethanol (98:2, v/v) as mobile phase at a flow rate of 1.0 mL/min with UV detection at 248 nm. The effects of mobile‐phase composition and column temperature on the enantioseparation were discussed. The accuracy, precision, linearity, LODs, and LOQ of the method were also investigated. LOD was 0.001 mg/kg in water, 0.015 mg/kg in soil and wheat, with an LOQ of 0.0025 mg/kg in water and 0.05 mg/kg in soil and wheat for each enantiomer of carfentrazone‐ethyl. SPE was used for the enrichment and cleanup of soil, water, and wheat samples. Recoveries for two enantiomers were 88.4–106.7% with RSDr of 4.2–9.8% at 0.1, 0.5, and 1 mg/kg levels from soil, 85.8–99.5% with the RSDr of 4.4−9.6% at 0.005, 0.025, and 0.05 mg/kg levels from water, and from wheat the recoveries were 86.3−91.3% with RSDr below 5.0% at 0.2, 0.5, and 1 mg/kg levels. This method could be used to identify and quantify the carfentrazone‐ethyl enantiomers in food and environment.
On‐line microdialysis coupled solid‐phase extraction to decrease matrix interference in the HPLC analysis of urinary ketamine and its metabolites
Authors: Chen Shing‐Jung , Cheng Fu‐Chou , Jen Jen‐Fon
Published: May 2010

A microdialysis sampling (MDS) on‐line SPE (MDS/SPE) has been applied to redeem the detection after dilution to decrease matrix interference in the analysis of ketamine (K) and its two main metabolites, norketamine (NK) and dehydronorketamine (DHNK) in urine by HPLC. After being filtrated, diluted and adjusting the pH, K and its metabolites in the diluted sample solution were collected through MDS and then trapped on an on‐line SPE for HPLC analysis. The optimal conditions for MDS/SPE were investigated and then applied to real sample analysis. Experimental results indicated that the MDS/SPE by using regenerated cellulose hollow fiber (8‐cm length) and 1 mM sulfuric acid as the perfusate at 20 μL/min flow‐rate to collect analytes from 100‐fold diluted urine sample (20 mL at pH 6.0), and then having been trapped in octadecyl‐modified silica phase SPE for 30 min, offered the optimum efficiency. The concentration levels of 41, 42 and 28% (m/m) for K, NK and DHNK, respectively, in urine were redeemed for determination. The detection limits were 0.38, 0.33 and 0.34 ng/mL (in 100‐fold diluted sample) for K, NK and DHNK, respectively. The method provides a very simple, inexpensive and eco‐friendly procedure to determine K, NK and DHNK in urine.
Extended characterization of a vacuum gas oil by offline LC‐high‐temperature comprehensive two‐dimensional gas chromatography
Authors: Dutriez Thomas , Courtiade Marion , Thiébaut Didier , Dulot Hugues , Bertoncini Fabrice , Hennion Marie‐Claire
Published: May 2010

In a context of environmental preservation, purification and conversion of heavy petroleum cuts into high‐quality fuel becomes essential. The interest for the characterization of those very complex matrices becomes a trendy analytical challenge, when it comes to get molecular information for the optimization of industrial processes. Among new analytical techniques, high‐temperature 2‐D GC has recently proved its applicability to heavy petroleum matrices, but lacks in selectivity to separate all chemical groups. To gain resolution, heart cutting is demonstrated for LC separation of saturated, aromatic and polar compounds prior to high‐temperature 2‐D GC. Therefore, an extended global resolution was obtained, especially by a better distinction of saturated compounds. This includes iso‐paraffins and biomarker polynaphthenic structures, which are impossible to quantify with MS methods. This new way to analyze heavy petroleum fractions gives innovative opportunities for the construction of global weight distributions by carbon atoms number and by chemical families. This can right now be employed for quantitative analysis of heavy petroleum fractions and for studying conversion processes.
Determination of clofentezine in medical herb extracts by chromatographic methods combined with diode array scanning densitometry
Authors: Tuzimski Tomasz
Published: May 2010

The aim of this study is to report a new procedure for extraction, cleanup and determination of clofentezine in herb extracts by ultrasound‐assisted solvent extraction, SPE and multidimensional planar chromatography with diode array detector (MDPC‐DAD) and/or HPLC‐DAD. The application of various extraction solvents in SPE experiments conducted on octadecyl silane coupled with styrene‐divinylbenzene cartridges for fractionation and purification samples has been described. Normal‐phase systems were used in MDPC experiments on silica layer. The procedure described for the determination of compounds is inexpensive and can be applied to the routine analysis of analytes in plant extracts, after preliminary cleanup and concentration, e.g. by SPE. Application of MDPC‐DAD and HPLC‐DAD is especially useful for correct identification of components of difficult, complicated mixtures, e.g. analytes in medical herbs.