bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diffusion‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging of pancreatic adenocarcinomas: Association with histopathology and tumor grade
Authors: Wang Yi , Chen Zongming E. , Nikolaidis Paul , McCarthy Robert J. , Merrick Laura , Sternick Laura A. , Horowitz Jeanne M. , Yaghmai Vahid , Miller Frank H.
Published: December 2010

Purpose

To evaluate the utility of diffusion‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging (DWI) in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma with various grades of differentiation.

Materials and Methods

Following Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval, 21 consecutive patients with surgical pathology‐proven pancreatic adenocarcinomas were retrospectively evaluated. Histopathologic characteristics and grades of differentiation of adenocarcinomas were analyzed. Twenty‐one patients without a known history of pancreatic disease were evaluated as the control group. Anatomic MR images and DW images were acquired using 1.5‐T MR systems. DWI with b values of 0 and 500 sec/mm2 were performed on both patients and control groups. The difference in mean apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values among groups of normal pancreatic parenchyma, adenocarcinomas with poor differentiation, and adenocarcinomas with well/moderate differentiation were compared using one‐way analysis of variance.

Results

Mean ADCs of pancreatic adenocarcinomas (1.77 ± 0.45 × 10−3mm2/sec) was not significantly lower than that of normal parenchyma (1.98 ± 0.31) (P = 0.09). When adenocarcinomas were subdivided based on grades of differentiation, however, poorly differentiated adenocarcinoma with histopathologic characteristics of limited glandular formation and dense fibrosis had significantly lower ADCs (1.46 ± 0.17) compared to those of well/moderately differentiated adenocarcinomas (2.10 ± 0.42) characterized by neoplastic tubular structures (P < 0.01). Well/moderately differentiated adenocarcinomas with dense fibrosis showed significantly lower ADC values (1.49 ± 0.19) than those with loose fibrosis (2.26 ± 0.30) (P = 0.01).

Conclusion

Difference in ADC values using DWI between poorly and well/moderately differentiated pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma may relate to differences in glandular formation and density of fibrosis. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2011;33:136–142. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Time‐resolved magnetic resonance angiography: Evaluation of intrapulmonary circulation parameters in pulmonary arterial hypertension
Authors: Jeong Hyun J. , Vakil Parmede , Sheehan John J. , Shah Sanjiv J. , Cuttica Michael , Carr James C. , Carroll Timothy J. , Davarpanah Amir
Published: December 2010

Purpose

To determine whether pulmonary arterial and venous transit times measured by time‐resolved magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) can be used as a diagnostic tool for pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH).

Materials and Methods

Twelve patients with confirmed PAH and 10 healthy volunteers were scanned with Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval. Time‐resolved MRA and 2D phase contrast flow images of the pulmonary vasculature were acquired. Pulmonary arterial and venous transit times (PaTT and PvTT) and pulmonary valve flow (PVF) were obtained. Pulmonary arterial and pulmonary venous blood volumes (PaBV and PvBV) were calculated as the product of flow and transit time.

Results

Patients with PAH showed statistically significant increases in PaTT and PvTT (P < 0.0004, P < 0.05, respectively) compared to controls. PaBV (165.2 ± 92.0 mL) was significantly higher in PAH subjects than controls (97.0 ± 47.1 mL) (P < 0.04), whereas PvBV (127.9 ± 148.9 mL) of PAH subjects had no significant increase from those of healthy controls (142.5 ± 104.1 mL) (P < 0.38).

Conclusion

Pulmonary arterial transit times measured using time‐resolved MRA can be used as a simple, noninvasive metric for detection of altered hemodynamics in PAH. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2011;33:225–231. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Gadoxetic acid disodium‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging for biliary and vascular evaluations in preoperative living liver donors: Comparison with gadobenate dimeglumine‐enhanced MRI
Authors: Lee Myoung Seok , Lee Jae Young , Kim Seung Ho , Park Hee Sun , Kim Se Hyung , Lee Jeong Min , Han Joon Koo , Choi Byung Ihn
Published: December 2010

Purpose

To compare gadoxetic acid disodium (Gd‐EOB‐DTPA)‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with gadobenate dimeglumine (Gd‐BOPTA)‐enhanced MRI in preoperative living liver donors for the evaluation of vascular and biliary variations.

Materials and Methods

Sixty‐two living liver donors who underwent preoperative MRI were included in this study. Thirty‐one patients underwent MRI with Gd‐EOB‐DTPA enhancement, and the other 31 underwent MRI with Gd‐BOPTA enhancement. Two abdominal radiologists retrospectively reviewed dynamic T1‐weighted and T1‐weighted MR cholangiography images and ranked overall image qualities for the depiction of the hepatic artery, portal vein, hepatic vein, and bile duct on a 5‐point scale and determined the presence and types of normal variations in each dynamic phase. Semiquantitative analysis for bile duct visualization was also conducted by calculating bile duct‐to‐liver contrast ratios.

Results

No statistical differences were found between the two contrast media in terms of hepatic artery or bile duct image quality by the two reviewers, or in terms of portal vein image quality by one reviewer (P > 0.05). Gd‐BOPTA provided better image qualities than Gd‐EOB‐DTPA for the depiction of hepatic veins by both reviewers, and for the depiction of portal veins by one reviewer (P < 0.01). The two contrast media‐enhanced images had similar bile duct‐to‐liver contrast ratios (P > 0.05). Regarding diagnostic accuracies with hepatic vascular/biliary branching types, no significant differences were observed between the two contrast media (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

Gd‐EOB‐DTPA could be as useful as Gd‐BOPTA for the preoperative evaluation of living liver donors, and has the advantage of early hepatobiliary phase image acquisition. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2011;33:149–159. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Three‐dimensional contrast‐enhanced hepatic MR imaging: Comparison between a centric technique and a linear approach with partial Fourier along both slice and phase directions
Authors: Kim Kyung Ah , Herigault Gwenael , Kim Myeong‐Jin , Chung Young Eun , Hong Hye‐Suk , Choi Sun Young
Published: December 2010

Purpose

To compare the image quality of two variants of a three‐dimensional (3D) gradient echo sequence (GRE) for hepatic MRI.

Materials and Methods

Thirty‐nine patients underwent hepatic MRI on a 3.0 Tesla (T) magnet (Intera Achieva; Philips Medical Systems). The clinical protocol included two variants of a 3D GRE with fat suppression: (i) a “centric” approach, with elliptical centric k‐space ordering and (ii) an “enhanced” approach using linear sampling and partial Fourier in both the slice and phase encoding direction. “Centric” and “Enhanced” 3D GRE images were obtained both precontrast (n = 32) and after gadoxetic acid injection (n = 39). Two reviewers jointly reviewed MR images for anatomic sharpness, overall contrast, homogeneity, and absence of artifacts. The liver‐to‐lesion signal difference ratio (SDR) was measured. Paired sample Wilcoxon test and paired t‐tests were used.

Results

Enhanced 3D GRE images performed better than centric 3D GRE images with respect to anatomic sharpness (P = 0.0156), overall contrast (P = 0.0195), homogeneity (P < 0.0001), and absence of artifacts (P = 0.0003) on precontrast images. For postcontrast MRI, enhanced 3D GRE images showed better quality in terms of overall contrast (P = 0.0195), homogeneity (P < 0.0001), and absence of artifacts (P = 0.009). Liver‐to‐lesion SDR on enhanced 3D GRE images (0.48 ± 0.13) was significantly higher than that of conventional 3D GRE images (0.40 ± 0.19, P = 0.0004) on postcontrast images, but not on precontrast images.

Conclusion

The enhanced 3D GRE sequence available on our scanner provided better hepatic image quality than the centric variant, without compromising lesion contrast. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2011;33:160–166. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A study of characteristic fragmentation of isoflavonoids by using negative ion ESI‐MSn
Authors: Ablajan Keyume
Published: December 2010

Isoflavone mono‐O‐glycosides were investigated by electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry with a quadrupole linear ion trap mass spectrometer in negative ion mode. Isoflavonoids having different positions of glycosylation or methylation were differentiated according to the relative abundances of Y0− and [Y0− H]−• ions generated from the [M − H]− ion. It is found that the site of glycosyl or methyl group significantly affects relative abundances of the Y0− and [Y0− H]−• ions. In addition, the characteristic ion [Y0− 2H]− was observed in the product ion spectrum of genistein 7‐O‐β‐D‐glucoside and was also detected, together with the [Y0− CH3]−• and [Y0− H − CH3]− ions in the product ion spectra of glycitin and 6‐methoxy genistein 7‐O‐β‐D‐glucoside. The structures of isoflavonoids can be characterized and identified according to the formation of these diagnostic ions. The results obtained from this investigation can promote the rapid identification of isoflavonoids in crude plant extracts. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Adaptive patterns of movement during arm elevation test in patients with shoulder impingement syndrome
Authors: Lin Jiu‐jenq , Hsieh Shih‐Chang , Cheng Wei‐Cheng , Chen Wei Chun , Lai Yuta
Published: December 2010

The purpose of this study was to determine if a distinctive characteristic exists in the pattern of movement (scapular elevation and upward rotation to reduce impingement) and associated muscular activities during arm elevation in subjects with shoulder impingement (SI) that is associated with the severity of the disease. Fourteen subjects (7 amateur athletes and 7 student athletes) with SI and 7 controls performed arm elevation in the scapular plane. Scapular kinematics (upward rotation, elevation, tipping, and scapulohumeral rhythm) and muscular activity [upper trapezius (UT), lower trapezius (LT), serratus anterior (SA), and deltoid] were measured by an electromagnetic motion tracking system and surface electromyography, respectively. Subjects with SI had greater elevation of the scapula (11.9 mm, p < 0.005) and less peak scapular posterior tipping (10.6°, p < 0.02) than controls. In more severe subjects (amateur athletes), the elevation and posterior tipping of the scapula were correlated with an increase in the UT (R = −0.818, p = 0.025) and a decrease in SA (R = 0.772, p = 0.040) activity, respectively. Our results identified a characteristic compensatory scapular elevation to reduce impingement during arm elevation in subjects with SI. Assessing scapular elevation during arm elevation may be a useful functional marker for evaluating impingement status and associated muscle function. Additionally, SA and LT muscle strengthening may improve SI. © 2010 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 29:653–657, 2011
Expression of chondro‐osteogenic BMPs in ossified failed tendon healing model of tendinopathy
Authors: Yee Lui Pauline Po , Wong Yin Mei , Rui Yun Feng , Lee Yuk Wa , Chan Lai Shan , Chan Kai Ming
Published: December 2010

Chondrocytes phenotype/markers were expressed in clinical samples of tendinopathy and calcifying tendinopathy. This study examined the spatial‐temporal expression of chondro‐osteogenic Bone Morphogenetic Proteins (BMPs), which might contribute to ectopic chondro‐osteogenesis and failed healing process in tendinopathy. Collagenase was injected into patellar tendon of rats to induce ossified failed tendon healing. At week 2, 4, 8, 12, and 16, the patella tendon was harvested for immunohistochemical staining and analysis of BMP‐2/4/7. BMP‐4/7 showed similar expression patterns, which was different from BMP‐2. The expression of BMP‐2 in the tendon matrix increased at week 2 and was reduced to nearly undetectable level afterwards except at the chondro‐ossification sites. However, the expression of BMP‐4/7 in the healing tendon fibroblast‐like cells and matrix increased at week 2, reduced at week 4 and 8 and increased again at week 12 and 16, consistent with transient healing at week 8 in this animal model. There was increasing strong expression of BMP‐4/7 in the chondrocyte‐like cells in the un‐ossified and ossified areas from week 8–16. BMP‐4/7, besides BMP‐2, might also contribute to ectopic chondro‐osteogenesis and failed healing in tendon injuries. BMP‐4/7, but not BMP‐2, might be involved in regulating late events in ossified failed tendon healing. © 2010 Orthopaedic Research Society Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 29:816–821
Ripening of salted anchovy (Engraulis anchoita): development of lipid oxidation, colour and other sensorial characteristics
Authors: Czerner Marina , Tomás Mabel C , Yeannes María I
Published: December 2010

BACKGROUND: Changes in lipids are in general associated with quality deterioration, though earlier studies in anchovy indicate that the volatile compounds of importance to the characteristic flavour could be generated by lipid oxidation. The aim of the present paper was to study the changes in the fatty acid composition and the lipid oxidation of Engraulis anchoita during ripening and their relationship with the development of the typical sensorial characteristics.

RESULTS: As a result of ripening, polyunsaturated fatty acids decrease from 4.27 to 2.42 and 2.00 g kg−1 fatty acids in gutted fish and fillet, respectively. The most affected class of fatty acids was the n‐3 fatty acids, especially docosahexaenoic acid. Moreover, saturated fatty acids were the most stable to the process. 2‐Thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) increased throughout ripening, and the use of fillets instead of gutted fish reduced this value. The a* value was the parameter most modified, showing a marked increase which correlates with the acquisition of a uniform pink colour. Sensory analysis did not show development of off‐odour or undesirable changes in colour during ripening.

CONCLUSION: As a result of ripening, the fatty acid profile was modified and an increment of TBARS was observed. However, these changes did not lead to deterioration in the quality of the product. Copyright © 2010 Society of Chemical Industry
Effects of rice dreg protein and its hydrolysate on growth performance and small intestine morphology of early‐weaned rats
Authors: Li Xiang , Xiong Hua , Yang Kaiwu , Peng Diwei , Li Wei , Yin Yulong , Liu Jinhui
Published: December 2010

BACKGROUND: Protein hydrolysate has more efficient peptide absorption and less hypertonic protein absorption. This study aims to investigate the influences of rice dreg (RD) protein and its hydrolysate on growth and somatropic axis in early‐weaned Sprague‐Dawley rats in comparison with soybean (SB) protein.

RESULTS: Compared with a SB diet control, a rice dregs protein hydrolysate (RD‐H) diet decreased average daily feed intake and feed/gain in weeks 1 (P < 0.01) and 2 (P < 0.05), while an RD diet decreased average daily feed intake and feed/gain in week 1 (P < 0.01). Average daily body gain exhibited no significant differences between either treatment during the 28‐day period. After 28 d, villus height and lamina propria depth of jejunum and duodenum were greater in the RD‐H treatment than in RD and control treatments (P < 0.01), while serum urea nitrogen concentration was lower in RD and RD‐H treatments than in the control (P < 0.05). There were no differences in serum growth hormone concentration, hepatic and muscle insulin‐like growth factor‐1 expression, and muscle growth hormone receptor expression at 7 and 28 d (P > 0.05), but hepatic growth hormone receptor expression was higher in RD‐H treatment than in RD and control treatments after 7 d (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION: Results showed that RD and RD‐H diets improved feed utilisation efficiency in the first 2 weeks post‐weaning and small intestine morphology at 28 d post‐weaning for an early‐weaned mammal compared with a SB diet. Copyright © 2010 Society of Chemical Industry
Effect of free or protein‐associated soy isoflavones on the antioxidant status in rats
Authors: Barbosa Ana CL , Lajolo Franco M , Genovese Maria I
Published: December 2010

BACKGROUND: The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of chronic ingestion of free and protein‐associated soy isoflavones on the antioxidant status in male Wistar rats. Free isoflavone (iso), protein‐associated soy isoflavone (iso + prot) and soy protein (prot) extracts were administered for 30 days by gavage to the rats at a dosage of 1 mg aglycone isoflavones per 200 g body weight, adjusted daily, and the prot group was given the same concentration of soy protein received by the iso + prot group. Antioxidant capacity of plasma, thiobarbituric acid‐reactive substance (TBARS) and glutathione (GSH) levels and catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities in plasma, erythrocytes and tissues and gene expression levels in liver and kidney were evaluated.

RESULTS: Chronic ingestion of free but not of protein‐associated soy isoflavones nor of solely soy protein increased plasma antioxidant capacity and GPx activity in erythrocytes. Soy protein increased CAT activity and gene expression in liver. SOD activity in erythrocytes was increased by all treatments.

CONCLUSION: The overall results confirm that dietary soy isoflavones have a positive effect on antioxidant status, enhancing antioxidant capacity of plasma and antioxidant enzymes in various tissues, but the effects are dependent on the form of administration and on a complex mechanism of antioxidant status balance on the organism. Copyright © 2010 Society of Chemical Industry
In‐situ investigation of the surface‐topography during anodic dissolution of copper under near‐ECM conditions
Authors: Schneider M. , Schroth S. , Schubert N. , Michaelis A.
Published: December 2010

Electrochemical machining is characterized by deliberate high speed anodic dissolution. The distance between anode and cathode are only a few hundred microns. Additionally, the electrolyte flow rate is in the range of approximately meter/second. A special electrochemical cell design was developed to investigate the surface topography during the anodic dissolution simultaneously and in‐situ under near‐ECM conditions. The anode was directly placed under the cathode with a gap of 350 µm. We carried out pulse experiments at 15 A/cm2 and 25 A/cm2 with an electrolyte flow rate of 4m/s. First‐time it was possible to observe the surface changing of the anode directly during current pulses by using a video camera. Different stages e.g. roughening, film formation or gas evolution could be distinguished.
A chromia forming thermal barrier coating system
Authors: Taylor M.P. , Evans H.E. , Gray S. , Nicholls J.R.
Published: December 2010

Conventional thermal barrier coating (TBC) systems consist of an insulating ceramic topcoat, a bond coat for oxidation protection and the underlying superalloy designed to combat the oxidising conditions in aero‐ and land‐based gas turbines. Under high‐temperature oxidation, the use of an alumina forming bond coat is warranted, thus all current TBC systems are optimised for the early formation of a dense, protective thermally grown oxide (TGO) of alumina. This also offers protection against Type I hot corrosion but a chromia layer gives better protection against Type II corrosion and intermediate temperatures, the conditions found in land‐based gas turbines.

In this paper the authors present the first known results for a chromia forming TBC system. Tests have been performed under oxidising conditions, up to 1000 h, at temperatures between 750 °C and 900 °C, and under Type I (900 °C) and Type II (700 °C) hot corrosion conditions up to 500 h. Under all these conditions no cracking, spallation or degradation was observed. Examination showed the formation of an adherent, dense chromia TGO at the bond coat / topcoat interface. These initial results are very encouraging and the TGO thicknesses agree well with comparable results reported in the literature.
Optimised selection of new protective coatings for biofuel boiler applications
Authors: Tuurna S. , Varis T. , Penttilä K. , Ruusuvuori K. , Holmström S. , Yli‐Olli S.
Published: December 2010

Using biofuels in power and CHP boilers can pose a challenge for materials performance. Formation of deposits containing e.g. potassium, sulphur, calcium, sodium, and chlorine can result in severe corrosion of conventional steels and alloys at relatively modest temperatures. Given suitable component design and fabrication facilities, coatings may be considered to protect the fireside surfaces. This paper aims to present a systematic approach to the design and selection criteria for protective coatings of boilers. The approach includes modelling of the process and surface conditions, optimisation of the coating process and structure, and performance validation in the laboratory and plant scales. The applied examples have included iron and nickel based HVOF and arc sprayed coatings subjected to verification field testing in boiler testing under aggressive biofuel conditions. The coatings have shown good corrosion resistance in both laboratory tests and long‐term harsh field tests. The paper discusses the used approach for finding a suitable and cost effective coating for biofuel boiler applications. The paper gives test results from microstructural, corrosion resistance and field testing experience for the selected coatings.
Susceptibility of 316L stainless steel to crevice corrosion in submersible solenoid valve
Authors: Cai B.P. , Liu Y.H. , Tian X.J. , Li H. , Ji R.J. , Wang F. , Zhang Y.Z.
Published: December 2010

The susceptibility of 316L stainless steel to crevice corrosion was investigated by using immersion test and electrochemical test. Three kinds of crevices including 316L‐to‐polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) crevice, 316L‐to‐fluoroelastomeric (FKM) crevice and 316L‐to‐316L crevice were tested in artificial seawater at 50°C. The results indicate that 316L stainless steel specimen is the most susceptible to crevice corrosion when it is coupled to 316L stainless steel crevice former, while it is the least susceptible when it is coupled to FKM crevice former. It suggests that during submersible solenoid valve design, the crevice of metal‐to‐metal should be moderately large so that crevice corrosion can not initiate and propagate, and FKM O‐ring rather than PTFE O‐ring should be selected as obturating ring. The corroded surface morphology was investigated using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). Three regions including passive region, active region and variable region can be observed on crevice corrosion sites.
Influence of tensile stress on corrosion behaviour of high‐strength galvanized steel bridge wires in simulated acid rain
Authors: Yang W. J. , Yang P. , Li X. M. , Feng W. L.
Published: December 2010

Corrosion behaviour of the high‐strength galvanized steel wires under tensile stress was researched by electrochemical polarization and salt spray test (SST) using simulated acid rain as electrolyte. Electrochemical polarization and SST results showed corrosion rate rose significantly with increasing tensile stress; white grains were observed by SEM after polarization, while cellular and dendritic crystals appeared on the rust layer after SST. XRD and TG‐DTA results revealed (Zn(OH)2)3 · ZnSO4 · 5H2O was the main corrosion product, and traces of Fe2(SO4)2O · 7H2O, Fe2(SO4)3, Fe2O3 · H2O were also detected. A three‐stage corrosion process for the galvanized steel wires during SST was proposed.
Effect of sulphate reducing bacteria on corrosion of AlZnInSn sacrificial anodes in marine sediment
Authors: Liu F. , Zhang J. , Zhang S. , Li W. , Duan J. , Hou B.
Published: December 2010

Microbiologically influenced corrosion (MIC) of AlZnIn‐Sn sacrificial anodes in marine sediment was investigated by exposing samples to sulphate reducing bacteria (SRB). Samples exposed to the sterile marine sediment were used as control. The results show that pitting corrosion occurs in both the sterile marine sediment and the SRB‐containing marine sediment. However, the corrosion can be increased sharply by the SRB metabolic activity due to the cathodic depolarization effect. In fact, the effect is based on the consumption of hydrogen which probably results in the acceleration of galvanic corrosion between corrosion products and metal substrate.
Numerical and experimental investigations of phase segragation effects in binary brazing solders
Authors: Anders Denis , Weinberg Kerstin
Published: December 2010

Solder materials occupy many of fields for technical application (e.g. solder joints in automotive control units or in microelectronic packages). They are required to provide electrical and mechanical connections between different components. Due to their wide range of applications solder alloys are subject to a great variety of microstructural changes such as phase separation and coarsening processes. The micromorphological variations influence strength and life expectation of solder materials, in particular, in very small components such as solder joints in microelectronic packages. In order to analyze the microstructural evolution with a diffusion theory of heterogeneous solid mixtures we employ an extended Cahn‐Hilliard phase field model. The diffusion equation under consideration constitutes a partial differential equation involving spatial derivatives of fourth order. Thus, the variational formulation of the problem requires approximation functions which are piecewise smooth and globally C1‐continuous. In our contribution we fulfil the continuity requirement by means of rational B‐spline finite element basis functions. To illustrate the versatility of this approach numerical simulations of phase decomposition and coarsening controlled by diffusion and by mechanical loading are discussed and compared with experimental results. (© 2010 Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Optimisation of Free Surface Problems Using Particle Methods
Authors: Marburger Jan
Published: December 2010

In this paper we show the basic idea of applying standard optimisation approaches to particle methods based on finite differences. We introduce simplifications resulting from its numerical implementation, which makes it easy to perform an adjoint based optimisation. This approach is verified numerically by complex 2D examples. (© 2010 Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
The use of zoledronic acid in pediatric cancer patients
Authors: August Keith J. , Dalton Amanda , Katzenstein Howard M. , George Bradley , Olson Thomas A. , Wasilewski‐Masker Karen , Rapkin Louis B.
Published: December 2010

Background

The third generation bisphosphonate zoledronic acid has demonstrated efficacy in reducing skeletal‐related events in adult patients with multiple cancer types that have skeletal disease. The use of zoledronic acid in pediatric oncology patients with bone metastases for the purpose of reducing pain, improving bone strength and altering the progression of metastatic disease has not been thoroughly evaluated.

Procedure

From October 2005 to December 2008, 19 patients at the Aflac Cancer Center received one or more doses of zoledronic acid as part of their therapy. A retrospective review of these patients was performed and information was collected including indication for treatment, toxicities, and outcomes.

Results

Most patients (n = 15) received zoledronic acid following relapse of their malignancy with metastatic disease present in one or more bony sites. Hypocalcemia and hypophosphatemia were frequent, but did not result in clinical symptoms. More significant toxicities associated with zoledronic acid, including clinically apparent renal insufficiency and osteonecrosis of the jaw, were not seen. Overall, zoledronic acid was well tolerated in this population.

Conclusions

The benefits of zoledronic acid seen in randomized trials of adults with bone metastases have sparked interest in its use for children with metastatic cancer. The administration of zoledronic acid in pediatric oncology appears safe, and may result in improved bone strength and pain control. Further evaluation is warranted to prospectively evaluate its efficacy and long‐term safety in pediatric patients with cancer and skeletal metastases. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2011;56:610–614. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Significant 25‐hydroxyvitamin D deficiency in child and adolescent survivors of acute lymphoblastic leukemia: Treatment with chemotherapy compared with allogeneic stem cell transplant
Authors: Simmons Jill H. , Chow Eric J. , Koehler Elizabeth , Esbenshade Adam , Smith Lesley‐Ann , Sanders Jean , Friedman Debra
Published: December 2010

Background

25‐hydroxyvitamin D insufficiency is common in healthy children and adolescents. There have been limited studies of the 25‐hydroxyvitamin D status of survivors of pediatric and adolescent acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL).

Procedure

In a cohort of 78 ALL survivors (52 chemotherapy‐treated and 26 HCT‐treated), we determined the prevalence of, and host, treatment and environmental risk factors for 25‐hydroxyvitamin D insufficiency and deficiency.

Results

There were no differences in serum 25‐hydroxyvitamin D levels between ALL survivors treated with conventional chemotherapy and those treated with HCT (median 26.0 vs 25.5 ng/ml). Fifty‐three percent of pediatric ALL survivors were 25‐hydroxyvitamin D insufficient (15–29 ng/dl), and 12% were deficient (<15 ng/dl). Younger age, higher reported dietary vitamin D intake, use of vitamin D supplementation, and increased ambient ultraviolet light were associated with higher serum 25‐hydroxyvitamin D levels. There was not enough evidence to suggest treatment type, gender, race, years since diagnosis or BMI were associated with serum 25‐hydroxyvitamin D levels. Only 27% of conventional chemotherapy‐treated ALL survivors and 8% of HCT‐treated ALL survivors met RDA for dietary vitamin D intake.

Conclusions

The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency and insufficiency in ALL survivors is similar to that of the general pediatric population in the United States, and there is no difference in serum 25‐hydroxyvitamin D status between chemotherapy‐treated and HCT‐treated ALL survivors. ALL survivors rarely meet the RDA requirements for vitamin D. Further studies are needed to determine whether dietary and behavioral interventions can improve the vitamin D status of ALL survivors. Pediatr Blood Cancer © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Ascertainment of warfarin and aspirin use by medical record review compared with automated pharmacy data
Authors: Garg Renu K. , Glazer Nicole L. , Wiggins Kerri L. , Newton Katherine M. , Thacker Evan L. , Smith Nicholas L. , Siscovick David S. , Psaty Bruce M. , Heckbert Susan R.
Published: December 2010

Purpose

Automated pharmacy databases are increasingly available for assessing medication use, but research on the validity of these data is incomplete. This study aimed to measure agreement on warfarin and aspirin use between medical records and automated pharmacy data among patients with newly detected atrial fibrillation (AF).

Methods

Patients with newly detected AF (n = 1953) were previously identified in a cohort study at Group Health (GH) in Washington State. Medical records were reviewed for information on risk factors and medication use, as well as clinical care during the 6 months after AF onset. Medication data were also obtained from the GH pharmacy database. We determined the sensitivity, specificity, and positive predictive value (PPV) as measures of the validity of the GH pharmacy database as compared with medical records for warfarin and aspirin use during the first 6 and 3 months after AF onset. We also calculated the κ statistic.

Results

For warfarin use, in comparison with the medical record review, the sensitivity, specificity, and PPV for the GH pharmacy database were excellent, and agreement was almost perfect in the 3‐ and 6‐month periods after AF onset (κ = 0.92 and 0.93, respectively). For aspirin use, the GH pharmacy database had low sensitivity but high specificity, and agreement was only fair for these two periods (κ = 0.28 and 0.31, respectively).

Conclusions

The GH pharmacy database is a valuable source of data for pharmacoepidemiologic research on warfarin use among patients with AF. However, the database cannot be recommended for assessment of aspirin use. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
MAT‐CHDSP, a novel medication assessment tool for evaluation of secondary prevention of coronary heart disease
Authors: Garcia Beate Hennie , Utnes June , Naalsund Liv Unni , Giverhaug Trude
Published: December 2010

Background

Quality of health performance is of increasing international importance. The potential value of the implementation of a guideline‐based medication assessment tool (MAT) has been evaluated in order to measure and improve adherence to guideline recommendations in secondary prevention of coronary heart disease (CHD).

Method

An existing MAT developed in the UK based on internationally recognised clinical evidence has been further developed [with criteria extended to secondary prevention of CHD only] for application in Norway. Content validity was demonstrated using a two round Delphi process among an expert group (12 reviewers, consensus threshold 75%). Inter‐ and intra‐observer reliability testing was conducted with agreement expressed by Cohen's kappa (κ). The designed MAT was applied in a pilot study and application time was measured to inform clinical utility of the tool in real world settings. A total of 85 patients (69% male) undergoing coronary angiography were included. Mean age was 65.4 years (SD 11.6).

Results

The new MAT is named MAT‐CHDSP and comprises 21 review criteria. Consensus among the expert group (n = 12) was obtained for all final criteria. Reliability testing showed κ in the range (0.79–0.90). Applicability in the pilot study was 63% (n = 1106) and adherence was 65%, 95% CI (64–66) (n = 791). The mean application time for the experienced user was 1.5 minutes (SD 0.3).

Conclusion

MAT methodology might merge the increasing demand for continuous assessment of quality of health performance with the clinical pharmacist's need for a standardised and explicit working tool. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Long term patterns of use after initiation of oral antidiabetic drug therapy
Authors: Lamberts Egbert J. F. , Nijpels Giel , Welschen Laura M. C. , Hugtenburg Jacqueline G. , Dekker Jacqueline M. , Souverein Patrick C. , Bouvy Marcel L.
Published: December 2010

Background

The benefits of intensive and continuous antihyperglycemic drug therapy have been extensively described. Data on long‐term patterns and modifications of antihyperglycemic drug use are scarce however. Moreover randomized controlled studies may not reflect actual drug use in daily clinical practice.

Objective

The aim of this study is to describe the longitudinal patterns of antidiabetic drug modifications after initiation of oral antidiabetic therapy in a large cohort of type 2 diabetes patients. The study will focus specifically on differences between patients who initiate treatment with metformin compared to patients who initiate treatment with sulfonylureas.

Methods

An observational study of longitudinal patterns of use and modification of oral antidiabetic drug therapy in 3323 patients who started with oral antidiabetic treatment between 1999 and 2007. Drug dispensing data were extracted from pharmacy information systems.

Results

This study shows that changes in international guidelines recommending metformin as first choice initial drug therapy in all patients were rapidly followed by prescribers. Patients starting diabetes treatment with metformin showed fewer modifications to treatment compared to patients initiating treatment with sulfonylureas. After correction for duration of follow‐up, Cox regression analysis showed a hazard ratio of 0.84 for any modification in the metformin group compared to the sulfonylureas group.

Conclusions

This study shows that adherence to type 2 diabetes treatment guidelines for initial treatment is implemented on a large scale. Longitudinal patterns show that the majority of patients receive a small number of modifications to their drug regimen. Discontinuation rates were relatively low. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Social Support as Mediator of the Stress Buffering Effect of Optimism: The Importance of Differentiating the Recipients’ and Providers’ Perspective
Authors: Vollmann Manja , Antoniw Katja , Hartung Freda–Marie , Renner Britta
Published: December 2010

Using a dyadic design, this longitudinal study with 85 couples examined whether the stress buffering effect of optimism is due to an actual higher availability of social support or to positive illusions about available social support by taking simultaneously the recipients’ and the providers’ perspective on social support into account. At baseline, optimism and social support from the recipients’ and the providers’ perspective were assessed. Perceived stress was measured at 3 months follow–up. Actor–Partner Interdependence Models showed that optimism was prospectively related to lower stress. Social support from the recipients’, but not from the providers’ perspective, partially mediated this relationship. The results suggest that optimists hold positive illusions about available support and that these illusions account at least partly for the stress buffering effect. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Optimism Facilitates the Utilisation of Prior Cues
Authors: Morton Debbie L. , El–Deredy Wael , Morton Alex S. , Elliott Rebecca , Jones Anthony K. P.
Published: December 2010

It has been shown that optimists tend to rely more on their prior expectations than sensory input when making decisions of an intense nature (Geers & Lassiter, 2002). We investigated the degree to which this tendency persists over a range of discrepancies between prior cues and actual stimuli. Eighty–seven participants were shown a subset of happy, sad and fearful pictures drawn from the Ekman facial expressions of emotion (Ekman & Oster, 1979). Each picture was preceded by a verbal cue indicating the impending emotional expression and intensity. The displayed pictures were either in agreement, slightly discrepant or very discrepant with the cue. Participants rated the extent to which they agreed/disagreed with the expectation cue. Probit signal detection models were used to produce acquiescence for each subject at each level of discrepancy. Correlation analysis was performed on acquiescence and dispositional optimism scores. There was a significant correlation between all acquiescence scores for levels of discrepancies and dispositional optimism. Optimism appears to be a trait associated with acquiescence. The apparent tendency of optimists to comply may be due to a cognitive style that relies on expectations, such that it takes them longer to recognise the extent of discrepancy between expectations and incoming information. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
End‐functional polymers, thiocarbonylthio group removal/transformation and reversible addition–fragmentation–chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization
Authors: Moad Graeme , Rizzardo Ezio , Thang San H
Published: December 2010

This review focuses on processes for thiocarbonylthio group removal/transformation of polymers synthesized by radical polymerization with reversible addition‐fragmentation‐chain transfer (RAFT). A variety of processes have now been reported in this context. These include reactions with nucleophiles, radical‐induced reactions, thermolysis, electrocyclic reactions and ‘click’ processes. We also consider the use of RAFT‐synthesized polymers in the construction of block or graft copolymers, functional nanoparticles and biopolymer conjugates where transformation of the thiocarbonylthio group is an integral part of the process. This includes the use of RAFT‐synthesized polymers in other forms of radical polymerization such as atom transfer radical polymerization or nitroxide‐mediated polymerization, and the ‘switching’ of thiocarbonylthio groups to enable control over polymerization of a wider range of monomers in the RAFT process. With each process we provide information on the scope and, where known, indicate the mechanism, advantages and limitations. Copyright © 2011 Society of Chemical Industry
Prequalification: Using Systems to Problem Dissolve
Authors: Baroudi Bassam , Metcalfe Mike
Published: December 2010

The requirement to prequalify prior to tendering for a project is often reported as burdensome. We need more ways to think constructively about this sort of project management problem. The pragmatists argue that constructive thinking includes encouraging stakeholders to shift from their default conception of a problematic situation. Ackoff (2006) suggested a way of doing this. He called it “problem dissolving.” This includes “zooming out” from the situation to conceive of the old problem situation as just one element in a metasystem. This article explains how and why problem dissolving might be used to reconceptualize prequalification. After explaining the approach, it tests the approach on industry experts. Projects are human activity systems, so it seemed reasonable to reflect on prequalification using the attributes of a project as a system: purpose, transformation, connectivity, and boundary. A reconceptualization of prequalification emerged where it was seen to have the potential to become a policy mechanism for improving the industry.
Development of a site‐specific cleanup goal for PAHs in soil based on anthropogenic background levels
Authors: Graening Guy J.
Published: December 2010

During removal of an industrial landfill in Folsom, California, fill material was excavated and processed through a mechanical screening plant to segregate soil from construction and demolition debris. The segregated soil was stockpiled and analyzed for a wide range of chemical groups to determine if the soil could be backfilled on‐site. The analytical results indicated many of the stockpiles had concentrations of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) that exceeded US EPA Regional Screening Levels, and a large quantity of soil was initially classified as requiring off‐site disposal at considerable cost. Because PAHs are ubiquitous in urban settings and the landfill did not contain a significant source of PAHs, development of a site‐specific PAH cleanup goal was proposed to regulators. Cal/EPA guidance for using on‐site data to develop a background threshold for metals was applied to the development of the PAH cleanup goal. The Cal/EPA approach involves demonstrating whether the data belong to a single population or multiple populations based on data distribution tests and probability plots. This article explains the statistical and graphical methods that were used to demonstrate that the Cal/EPA approach was valid for PAHs and that the calculated cleanup level was consistent with published anthropogenic background levels of PAHs in California and across the United States. The site‐specific PAH cleanup goal enabled most of the soil to be backfilled on‐site, saving about $227,000 in transportation and disposal costs, and regulators subsequently approved unrestricted future use of the property. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A comprehensive approach to plume stability
Authors: Vanderford Mindy
Published: December 2010

This article defines and presents a systematic approach to groundwater plume‐stability assessment. Qualitative and quantitative methods that have been used to assess plume stability at National Priority List sites undergoing optimization are reviewed. Example case studies are included to illustrate the advantages of combining multiple analysis methods. Relevant statistical methods include identifying normal data distributions, detection frequencies, coefficients of variation, individual well trends, and rates of change at individual monitoring locations. Trend estimates for total plume mass and center of mass provide a broader picture of plumewide processes. Deterministic methods, such as quantitative mass‐balance approaches, may be useful for larger plumes. Qualitative assessments include evaluations of the conceptual site model, source strength, attenuation mechanisms, and hydrogeology. Because groundwater plumes are always dynamic, the determination of plume stability has to include qualitative steps relating the rate and magnitude of change to the goals and objectives of the program and the time frame over which critical management decisions are to be made. The assessment of plume stability is, therefore, presented as a process that should involve both qualitative and quantitative steps for determining the acceptability of variability in groundwater contaminant concentrations. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Lessons learned from classroom training on natural attenuation of chlorinated solvents
Authors: Hadley Paul W. , Hill Steve R. , Ellis Dave , Major David W.
Published: December 2010

Technology and information transfer are critical functions within the remediation industry. Researchers in the private sector, academia, and government all struggle to have their findings accepted and put to good use by the remediation industry at large but must work even harder to have their findings accepted and put into practice by state and federal regulators in the environmental agencies overseeing cleanups. Unfortunately, many technology and information transfer efforts fail to reach state and federal regulators, and even fewer achieve regulatory acceptance. A two‐year‐long campaign to deliver a training class on the natural attenuation of chlorinated solvents in groundwater is one prominent example of very effective technology and information transfer. Several of the elements and aspects of that successful training class are presented and discussed in order to provide others with a proven and workable template. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Treatment of mercury‐contaminated soils with activated carbon: A laboratory, field, and modeling study
Authors: Bessinger Brad A. , Marks Corinne D.
Published: December 2010

A series of laboratory batch leaching tests was conducted to evaluate the performance of different activated carbons in stabilizing mercury in soils. Based on the results of these experiments, an amendment application rate of 5 percent powdered activated carbon (PAC) was selected for in situ field application at a former industrial facility. A geochemical model was also developed to simulate the interactions between mercury and activated carbon in vadose‐zone soils. Modeling was used to (1) better understand possible mercury sequestration mechanisms and (2) predict the in situ performance of PAC. Model results indicate dissolved mercury concentrations observed in batch tests are consistent with equilibrium partitioning of mercury between dissolved organic matter, soil organic matter, and PAC. Activated carbon is predicted to reduce dissolved mercury concentrations via two mechanisms: (1) the formation of stable mercury complexes on PAC surfaces and (2) the direct adsorption of dissolved organic matter that would otherwise be available for mercury dissolution. Study results demonstrate PAC effectiveness for site soils with mercury concentrations below 200 mg/kg. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.