bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Responses of water erosion to rainfall extremes and vegetation types in a loess semiarid hilly area, NW China
Authors: Wei Wei , Chen Liding , Fu Bojie , Lü Yihe , Gong Jie
Published: May 2009

Rainfall extremes (RE) become more variable and stochastic in the context of climate change, increasing uncertainties and risks of water erosion in the real world. Vegetation also plays a key role in soil erosion dynamics. Responses of water erosion to RE and vegetation, however, remain unclear. In this article, on the basis of the data measured on 15 plots (area: 10 m × 10 m and 10 m × 5 m) and the definition of World Meteorological Organization (WMO) on rainfall extremes, 158 natural rainfall events from 1986 to 2005 were analysed, and rain depth and maximal 30‐min intensity (MI30) were used to define RE. Then, water erosion process under RE and five vegetation types (spring wheat, alfalfa, sea buckthorn, Chinese pine, and wheatgrass) were studied in a key loess semiarid hilly area, NW China. The following findings were made: (1) The minimal thresholds of depth and MI30 for defining RE were determined as 40·11 mm and 0·55 mm/min, respectively. Among the studied rainfall events, there were four events with both the variables exceeding the thresholds (REI), five events with depths exceeding 40·11 mm (REII), and four events with MI30 exceeding 0·55 mm/min (REIII). Therefore, not only extreme rainstorm, but also events with lower intensities and long durations were considered as RE. Moreover, RE occurred mostly in July and August, with a probability of 46 and 31%, respectively. (2) Extreme events, especially REI, in general caused severer soil‐water loss. Mean extreme runoff and erosion rates were 2·68 and 53·15 times of mean ordinary rates, respectively. The effect of each event on water erosion, however, becomes uncertain as a result of the variations of RE and vegetation. (3) The buffering capacities of vegetation on RE were generally in the order of sea buckthorn > wheatgrass > Chinese pine > alfalfa > spring wheat. In particular, sea buckthorn reduced runoff and erosion effectively after 3–4 years of plantation. Therefore, to fight against water erosion shrubs like sea buckthorn are strongly recommended as pioneer species in such areas. On the contrary, steep cultivation (spring wheat on slopes), however, should be avoided, because of its high sensitivities to RE. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Evo‐devo and “typological thinking”: an exculpation
Authors: Lewens Tim
Published: May 2009

Many biologists, historians and philosophers of biology have followed Mayr in rejecting so‐called “typological thinking.” It should therefore be a cause for concern that modern evolutionary‐developmental biology appears committed to various typological notions. This article distinguishes three accusations that have been levelled against the typological thinker. It argues that although there are indeed typological themes within evo‐devo, they do not impugn its respectability as a research program. Moreover, an appreciation of the sense in which evo‐devo is typological allows us to understand the distinctive contribution evo‐devo can make to evolutionary studies. J. Exp. Zool. (Mol. Dev. Evol.) 312B:789–796, 2009. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Synthesis and herbicidal activity of 3‐aryl‐1‐[2‐(aryloxy)propanoyl]imidazolidine‐2,4‐diones
Authors: Li Ke , Shi De‐Qing
Published: May 2009

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A series of novel 3‐aryl‐1‐[2‐(aryloxy)propanoyl]imidazolidine‐2,4‐diones were synthesized by the condensation of 3‐aryl‐imidazolidine‐2,4‐diones with 2‐(aryloxy)propanoyl chlorides under mild conditions. Their structures were confirmed by IR, 1H NMR, mass spectroscopy, and elemental analyses. The preliminary bioassay indicated that the target compounds II displayed excellent herbicidal activity against monocotyledonous (barnyard grass) and dicotyledonous (oil rape) plants. J. Heterocyclic Chem., (2009).
Effect of thrombin and bradykinin on endothelial cell mechanical properties monitored through membrane deformation
Authors: Cuerrier Charles M. , Gagner Andréanne , Lebel Réjean , Gobeil Fernand , Grandbois Michel
Published: May 2009

The endothelium is closely implicated in the control and maintenance of the vascular homeostasis. The functions of endothelial cells are highly regulated by several agonists of G protein‐coupled receptors (GPCR), which can mediate signals involved in morphological remodeling. Here, we evaluated the mechanical properties of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) in responses to two physiological agonists namely thrombin and bradykinin. We used the atomic force microscopy (AFM) technique to study changes in cell membrane stiffness and interaction between the actin cytoskeleton and the cell membrane. HUVEC stimulated with thrombin (10 nM) and bradykinin (1 µM) showed a temporal increase in their membrane stiffness from 5.0 ± 0.1 kPa (control) to 8.2 ± 0.4 kPa (thrombin) and 7.3 ± 0.5 kPa (bradykinin) and in membrane tethers elongation forces from 43.9 ± 0.9 pN (control) to 49.5 ± 0.8 pN (thrombin) and 53.1 ± 0.8 pN (bradykinin). These results were consistent with the reorganization of the actin cytoskeleton observed in fluorescence microscopy. This study demonstrates that these agonists induce important modifications of the cell membrane properties that can be directly linked to the reorganization and the interaction of the actin cytoskeleton near the apical side of the membrane. These changes in the mechanical properties of endothelial cells provide relevant informations in the biological and pathophysiological behaviors of endothelial cells. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Inter‐decadal variability of Tibetan spring vegetation and its associations with eastern China spring rainfall
Authors: Wang Yuanxiang , Zhao Ping , Yu Rucong , Rasul Ghulam
Published: May 2009

Using the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index of NOAA/AVHRR, the European Centre for Medium‐Range Weather Forecast reanalysis and the Climate Prediction Center Merged Analysis of Precipitation data for the period 1982–1999, the relationship between the inter‐decadal variability of spring (April–May) vegetation over the Tibetan Plateau (TP) and spring rainfall over eastern China was investigated. The results show that when the vegetation over the TP increases in spring, the spring rainfall enhances to the north of the Yangtze River and reduces to the south of the river. This relationship is well supported by the feedback of vegetation to climate and the background atmospheric circulation changes.

Corresponding to more vegetation over the TP in spring, the surface sensible heating increases and local air temperature at the surface and in the troposphere also increases. The air volume expands, and the divergence becomes dominant in high‐level atmosphere over the TP, with an increase in the upper‐tropospheric geopotential height. This indicates an upper‐tropospheric intensified ridge over the TP in spring.

The intensified ridge extends toward eastern China. An anomalous anti‐cyclone appears over the TP and eastern China, with anomalous divergence in the upper troposphere and anomalous convergence in the lower troposphere. Meanwhile, an anomalous cyclonic circulation appears in the lower troposphere over the northern region of eastern China, accompanying with the local anomalous upward motion. Therefore, the spring rainfall enhances over these regions. To the south of the upper‐tropospheric anomalous anti‐cyclonic centre, however, the upper easterlies from the western North Pacific Ocean retard while reaching the southeast coasts of China. This may result in the upper‐tropospheric anomalous convergence, with anomalous divergence and an anomalous anti‐cyclonic circulation in the lower troposphere over southeastern China and its coasts. Consequently, the spring rainfall weakens over these regions. Copyright © 2009 Royal Meteorological Society
Vertical moisture profile characteristics of severe surface drought and surface wetness in the western United States: 1973–2002
Authors: Garrity Colleen M. , Cerveny Randall S. , Wentz Elizabeth A.
Published: May 2009

Drought can be viewed as a three‐dimensional phenomenon rather than simply a surface feature. We characterize drought across the western United States from 1973 to 2002 in a three‐dimensional context by examining its vertical moisture extent using NCEP/NCAR Reanalysis data derived from rawinsonde moisture profiles. We then apply a discriminant analysis to establish the degree of difference between the vertical moisture profiles of extreme drought and extreme wetness conditions. The mean vertical moisture profiles of dry cases are measurably drier than those of wet regions, particularly at the lower levels of the profile. The discriminant analysis of the 9254 cases indicates that moisture in the lowest (850 hPa) level of the profile is most important in identifying dry versus wet regions, and, consequently, implies a strong influence of convective precipitation in defining surface drought and wet conditions in the study region. Copyright © 2009 Royal Meteorological Society
Determination of polyphenolic constituents and biological activities of bark extracts from different Pinus species
Authors: Yesil‐Celiktas Ozlem , Ganzera Markus , Akgun Ismail , Sevimli Canan , Korkmaz Kemal S , Bedir Erdal
Published: May 2009

BACKGROUND: The most common commercially available pine bark extract is Pycnogenol®, a standardised extract of Pinus maritima, which has been reported to have cardiovascular benefits and enhance microcirculation. The present study was conducted to determine the chemical composition of four pine bark extracts, assess their biological activities and to compare the results with Pycnogenol®.

RESULTS: The Pinus species were analysed by LC and LC‐MS; extracts of P. brutia and P. nigra showed higher levels of phenolic constituents compared to P. sylvestris and P. pinea. In particular, P. brutia contained extremely high concentrations of taxifolin (18.5%). The highest radical scavenging activities were attained with P. pinea (88.6%), P. nigra (87.2%) and P. brutia (86.4%) bark extracts. Additionally, anticarcinogenic effects of the extracts and their kinetics were determined in four cell lines including human prostate (PC‐3, DU 145, LNCaP) and breast adenocarcinoma (MCF7) by the MTT assay. Cell viability was reduced to 40% by extracts of P. pinea, and P. sylvestris in PC‐3 cells showing a similar effect like the positive control, CPT‐11.

CONCLUSION: Pinus species other than P. maritima definitively possess high biological activities, and therefore present a huge potential to be utilised in the food and the pharmaceutical industries. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Effects of milk proteins and gums on quality of bread made from frozen dough
Authors: Shon Jinhan , Yun Young , Shin Malshick , Chin Koo Bok , Eun Jong‐Bang
Published: May 2009

BACKGROUND: Mixtures of milk proteins and gums incorporated into bread formulations may enhance the quality of bread and retard the deterioration of frozen dough. Our objective was to investigate the effects of mixtures of milk proteins (casein (C) and whey protein (W)) and gums (sodium alginate (A) and κ‐carrageenan (K) on the quality of bread made from frozen dough. We hypothesized that bread containing milk proteins and gums would be of improved quality. Milk proteins improve texture, moisture retention and specific volume, and reduce the size of ice crystals, while gums incorporated into the bread improve moisture retention, control water mobility and prevent the growth of ice crystals, so we hypothesized milk proteins and gums would suppress the quality deterioration of bread during frozen storage.

RESULTS: We found that mixtures of milk proteins and gums proved effective with regard to the maintenance of the baking quality of frozen dough. Breads containing CA had a higher specific loaf volume than the control bread. The addition of WK enhanced crumb firmness during extended frozen storage. In sensory evaluation, the addition of WA and CA contributed to the improvement of baking quality, taste, texture and acceptability.

CONCLUSION: These findings are consistent with the hypothesis that mixtures of milk proteins and gums improved baking quality by reducing the deterioration of frozen dough. These results indicate that the addition of CA and WA improved the bread quality and WK could effectively be used as an anti‐staling agent in bread. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Structural changes, chemical composition and antioxidant activity of cherry tomato fruits (cv. Micro‐Tom) stored under optimal and chilling conditions
Authors: Gómez Perla , Ferrer M Ángeles , Fernández‐Trujillo J Pablo , Calderón Antonio , Artés Francisco , Egea‐Cortines Marcos , Weiss Julia
Published: May 2009

BACKGROUND:Cherry tomato fruits cv. Micro‐Tom, a model plant for tomato genetics, were analysed in order to determine the main structural and chemical changes under optimal and chilling storage conditions. The comparison of Micro‐Tom to standard tomato cultivars will give an insight into suitability of this dwarf cultivar as a model for studying the influence of low‐temperature conditions on tomato fruits.

RESULTS:During chilling, fruit tissue was progressively destroyed due to the collapse of the deep layers of the pericarp. Chilling lowered the typical tomato kinetics of ripening in sugars (glucose, fructose, sucrose), organic acids (tartaric, malic, citric, ascorbic and succinic) and the antioxidants phenol and lycopene, while carotenoid synthesis seemed to be blocked. Glutathione level was elevated and the activity of ROS scavenging enzymes was altered. Essentially, Micro‐Tom fruits showed a quality evolution that was similar to that described for standard tomato cultivars.

CONCLUSION:The cherry tomato cultivar Micro‐Tom could be used as a model for studying the influence of low temperature on biochemical and structural changes taking place during chilling injury conditions. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Quality of life after breast cancer surgery: What have we learned and where should we go next?
Authors: Pockaj Barbara A. , Degnim Amy C. , Boughey Judy C. , Gray Richard J. , McLaughlin Sarah A. , Dueck Amylou C. , Perez Edith A. , Halyard Michele Y. , Frost Marlene H. , Cheville Andrea L. , Sloan Jeff A.
Published: May 2009

Treatment options for women with newly diagnosed breast cancer include breast conservation therapy and mastectomy with or without reconstruction, which provide equivalent cancer outcomes in properly selected patients. Although multiple studies have evaluated breast surgery quality‐of‐life outcomes, the data are inconsistent. This factor is important to consider when counseling patients and defining surgical quality measures. J. Surg. Oncol. 2009;99:447–455. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Association between color doppler vascularity index, angiogenesis‐related molecules, and clinical outcomes in gastric cancer
Authors: Chen Chiung‐Nien , Lin Jen‐Jen , Lee Hsinyu , Cheng Yung‐Ming , Chang King‐Jen , Hsieh Fon‐Jou , Lai Hong‐Shiee , Chang Chien‐Cheng , Lee Po‐Huang
Published: May 2009

Purpose

This study was conducted to evaluate the correlation between color Doppler vascularity index (CDVI), clinical outcomes and five angiogenesis‐related molecules including vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), placenta growth factor (PlGF), cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and calreticulin (CRT) in gastric cancer, and to develop an effective model selected from these five molecules to predict patient survival.

Patients and Methods

CDVI could be obtained preoperatively by transabdominal ultrasound from 30 patients. Enzyme immunoassay was adopted to determine protein level of VEGF and PlGF, and immunohistochemistry was used to detect COX‐2, iNOS and CRT expression. Correlation between CDVI and five individual molecules was assessed. Multiple molecules model was developed using classification and regression tree (CART) analysis from five molecules, and was tested for patient survival in another 45 patients.

Results

CDVI was significantly correlated with patient survival (P = 0.00907) and absolute number of metastatic lymph nodes (P = 0.01). There was no significant association between CDVI and any individual molecule. The model, developed by CART consisting of VEGF and PlGF, could differentiate high and low CDVI and survival in testing group (P = 0.00257).

Conclusions

CDVI was associated with lymph node metastasis, combined VEGF and PlGF expression status and patient survival in gastric cancer. J. Surg. Oncol. 2009;99:402–408. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Tempofilter II for tumor emboli prevention during radical nephrectomy and inferior vena cava thrombus resection for renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Feng Xiang , Bao Junmin , Jing Zaiping , Hou Jianguo , Gao Xu
Published: May 2009

Background and Objectives

Patients with renal cell carcinoma (RCC) frequently have tumor thrombus of the renal vein or inferior vena cava (IVC). During radical nephrectomy, the tumor thrombus may become dislocated due to manipulation of the IVC during tumor isolation, which may result in pulmonary embolism. Placement of vena cava filters at the proximal end of the tumor thrombus have successfully prevented pulmonary embolism. We herein report the use of the Tempofilter II, a temporary filter for the prevention of pulmonary embolism.

Methods

From 2006 to 2008, seven patients with RCC and level II or III IVC tumor thrombus received radical nephrectomy with resection of the tumor thrombus. The Tempofilter II was inserted before the operation and removed postoperatively.

Results

The resection was successful in all seven cases. No complications, pulmonary embolism, or perioperative death occurred. No metastasis or tumor recurrence was detected during the follow‐up period.

Conclusions

The Tempofilter II is effective in preventing pulmonary embolism during resection of RCC and IVC thrombi. The filter is simple to insert and removal does not required imaging. J. Surg. Oncol. 2009;100:159–162. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Endoscopic pedicled nasoseptal flap reconstruction for pediatric skull base defects
Authors: Shah Rupali N. , Surowitz Joshua B. , Patel Mihir R. , Huang Benjamin Y. , Snyderman Carl H. , Carrau Ricardo L. , Kassam Amin B. , Germanwala Anand V. , Zanation Adam M.
Published: May 2009

Objectives/Hypothesis:

A prospective study of endoscopic expanded endonasal approaches (EEA) with nasoseptal flap reconstructions revealed anecdotal evidence of less available relative septal length in pediatric patients. Our goal is to use radioanatomic analysis of computed tomography (CT) scans to determine limitations of the nasoseptal flap in pediatric skull base reconstruction and to describe clinical outcomes after using the nasoseptal flap in six pediatric patients.

Study Design:

Six pediatric patients who underwent EEA with nasoseptal flap reconstruction were prospectively analyzed for flap coverage and postoperative cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak. Fifty maxillofacial CTs of individuals <18 years of age and 10 adult images underwent radioanatomic analysis.

Methods:

Measurements included potential nasoseptal flap dimensions and dimensions required to reconstruct an anterior skull base defect, a trans‐sellar defect, and a transclival defect. Measurements were compared to determine if flap size would be sufficient to cover independent EEA defects within different age groups.

Results:

Two out of three patients <14 years of age had inadequate flap coverage; one had a postoperative CSF leak. Patients >14 years of age had adequate flap coverage. Average potential flap length is less than average anterior skull base length until age 9 years to 10 years, and less than average trans‐sellar defect length until age 6 years to 7 years. Septal growth is most rapid between 10 years and 13 years.

Conclusions:

The pedicled nasoseptal flap may not be a viable option for EEA reconstruction in children <10 years of age. This flap is a reliable option in patients >14 years of age, as their septums are comparable to adults. Patients 10 years to 13 years of age require careful consideration of facial analysis and preoperative radioanatomic evaluation on an individual basis. Laryngoscope, 2009
Selective endoscopic decompression of the orbital apex for dysthyroid optic neuropathy
Authors: Chu Eugene A. , Miller Neil R. , Lane Andrew P.
Published: May 2009

Objectives/Hypothesis:

To introduce the concept of selective endoscopic decompression of the orbital apex for dysthyroid optic neuropathy and present surgical outcomes.

Study Design:

Prospective case series.

Methods:

Consecutive patients undergoing urgent endoscopic orbital apex decompression for dysthyroid optic neuropathy were studied prospectively. Surgical indications consisted of retrobulbar optic neuropathy with radiologic evidence of apical crowding in the setting of Graves' disease. Pre‐ and postoperative parameters assessed included exophthalmometry, visual acuity, presence or absence of exposure keratitis, diplopia, an afferent papillary defect, and Ishihara color plate testing.

Results:

In all patients, visual acuity was improved or was stabilized by selective orbital apex decompression. Preoperative afferent papillary defects were reversed in all but one patient. Patients with decreased color vision by Ishihara color plate testing had postoperative improvement in their scores. No patients developed postoperative diplopia. An average of 3.1 mm of ocular recession was achieved.

Conclusions:

Selective decompression of the orbital apex spares the anteromedial and inferior orbital walls that are typically removed in a standard endoscopic orbital decompression. This focused approach successfully addresses compressive optic neuropathy, while minimizing the risk of postoperative diplopia or delayed sinus outflow obstruction. In patients with progressing dysthyroid optic neuropathy without diplopia this modified procedure should be considered. Laryngoscope, 2009
Combined use of crushed cartilage and processed fascia lata for dorsal augmentation in rhinoplasty for Asians
Authors: Jang Yong Ju , Song Hyung Min , Yoon Yeo Jun , Sykes Jonathan M.
Published: May 2009

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Autologous dorsal nasal grafts have limitations including limited tissue availability, additional surgery time, donor site morbidity, a visible graft contour, and postoperative distortions and deformities owing to displacement and warping. This report describes our experience using combined Tutoplast‐processed fascia lata (TPFL) and crushed cartilage for dorsal augmentation and contouring in rhinoplasty.

Study Design:

A retrospective clinical chart review.

Methods:

The study involved a total of 113 patients (68 male, 45 female), who underwent crushed cartilage‐TPFL grafting to the nasal dorsum. Patient satisfaction was evaluated using a questionnaire. Photographs and postoperative histories were reviewed to assess complications including graft resorption, graft infection, warping, extrusion, irregularity, and postoperative deformity.

Results:

Different autologous grafts were used in combination with TPFL: septal cartilage in 70 cases (61.9%), septal cartilage and ethmoid bone in 17 cases (15.0%), costal cartilage in 15 cases (13.3%), and septal and conchal cartilage in 11 cases (9.7%). Of the 101 patients who responded to the questionnaire, 85.1% were satisfied with the surgical outcome. Complications were encountered in four patients (3.5%), comprising overcorrected dorsal augmentation in two patients, graft resorption in one patient, and dorsal irregularity in one patient. Eight patients (7.1%) required revision rhinoplasty due to dissatisfaction with the nasal tip shape (n = 6), graft resorption (n = 1) and overcorrected dorsal augmentation (n = 1).

Conclusions:

The combined use of crushed cartilage and TPFL appears to be a useful technique for dorsal augmentation and contouring. This technique provides favorable and predictable outcomes in rhinoplasty. Laryngoscope, 2009
Effects of cathodic electrodeposition parameters of cerium oxide film on the corrosion resistance of the 2024 Al alloy
Authors: Brunelli K. , Bisaglia F. , Kovac J. , Magrini M. , Dabalà M.
Published: May 2009

Cerium oxide thin films obtained by cathodic electrodeposition on 2024 aluminium alloy have been studied. The coatings, obtained with electrochemical deposition, offer an effective corrosion protection and require a lower deposition time when compared to chemical conversion coatings. The coatings were obtained at room temperature by deposition from CeCl3/H2O2 aqueous solutions and the influence of several parameters (CeCl3 concentration, H2O2 concentration, deposition time, current intensity) on the corrosion resistance was studied. The composition, morphology and microstructure of the films have been characterized by SEM, XPS and AFM. The corrosion resistance was investigated through potentiodynamic tests in 3% NaCl solution.
Regulation of CDX2 expression in esophageal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Vaninetti Nadine , Williams Lara , Geldenhuys Laurette , Porter Geoffrey A. , Guernsey Duane L. , Casson Alan G.
Published: May 2009

Reflux of acidic gastric contents and bile acids into the lower esophagus has been identified to have a central role in esophageal malignancy and is reported to upregulate caudal‐related homologue 2 (CDX2), a regulatory gene involved in embryonic development and axial patterning of the alimentary tract. The aim of this study was to characterize the expression of CDX2 in a well‐defined series of human esophageal tissues, comprising reflux‐induced esophagitis, premalignant Barrett esophagus (BE), and primary esophageal adenocarcinoma (EADC). To explore potential molecular regulatory mechanisms, we also studied the expression of β‐catenin, SOX9, and CDX2 promoter methylation in esophageal tissues, in addition to the effect of bile acids and nitric oxide (NO) on CDX2 expression in the normal human esophageal cell line Het1A. Relative to matched normal esophageal epithelia, CDX2 was overexpressed in esophagitis (37% for RNA; cytoplasmic immunoreactivity in 48% of tissues), a high proportion (91%) of BE tissues, and in EADC (57% for RNA; cell nuclear immunopositivity in 80%). An association with β‐catenin expression was seen, but not with SOX9 or CDX2 promoter methylation. In Het1A cells, CDX2 was upregulated following exposure to bile acids and NO, alone and in combination. These results further implicate CDX2 and β‐catenin in the molecular pathogenesis of human EADC. The observed synergistic effect of NO on the efficacy of bile acid‐induction of CDX2 suggests a novel role for NO in modulating the development of the Barrett phenotype and esophageal adenocarcinogenesis. Mol. Carcinog. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Restoration of shoulder abduction function by direct muscular neurotization with the phrenic nerve fascicles and nerve grafts: A case report
Authors: Sinis Nektarios , Boettcher Michael , Werdin Frank , Kraus Armin , Schaller Hans‐Eberhard
Published: May 2009

In this report, we describe the first case of using the partial phrenic nerve transfer and direct muscular implantation into the deltoid muscle for restoration of the shoulder function and stability. A patient suffering from the partial brachial plexus injury with absent axillary nerve underwent reconstructive surgery by an end‐to‐end nerve coaptation using two fascicles of the phrenic nerve and two autologous nerve grafts, and direct implantation of nerve grafts into the deltoid muscle. Eighteen months after the procedure, we found a functioning biceps with 90° elbow flexion against gravity and 40° shoulder abduction with satisfactory shoulder stability. Electrophysiology revealed reinnervation potentials in the deltoid and biceps muscle. This case demonstrates a satisfactory result after using transfer of the partial ipsilateral phrenic nerve in combination with muscular implantation to restore shoulder abduction and stability. We recommend the described techniques in cases without other reconstructive options. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. Microsurgery, 2009.
Donor sites for pedicled skeletal grafts of the hand, wrist, and forearm
Authors: Dailiana Zoe H. , Malizos Konstantinos N. , Varitimidis Sokratis E. , Urbaniak James R.
Published: May 2009

Pedicled bone and periosteal grafts provide successful reconstruction of skeletal problems of the distal radius, wrist, and hand. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the available alternatives and to propose the most suitable skeletal grafts for the reconstruction of the distal radius, and the carpal and hand bones. The alternative donor sites (dorsal and palmar distal radius, and metacarpals), their pedicles, and the potential coverage area in relation to specific wrist and hand pathology were determined in the cadaveric dissections. In the clinical setting, 75 pedicled grafts were used for the treatment of scaphoid nonunions (62 cases), lunate necrosis (8 cases), reconstruction of the metacarpal defects (2 cases), and wrist fusions (3 cases). All alternatives have the advantage of a single approach that may be performed under tourniquet control, from the same team. Among the available alternatives, surgeon's familiarity plays the most important role for the final selection of the graft. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. Microsurgery, 2009.
Unilateral diaphragmatic paralysis and segmental motor paresis following herpes zoster
Authors: Bahadir Cengiz , Kalpakcioglu Ayşe Banu , Kurtulus Duygu
Published: May 2009

We report the case of a 73‐year‐old woman who complained of acute onset of pain and weakness of her left shoulder and proximal arm muscles 3 weeks after a diagnosis of herpes zoster. Electromyography revealed involvement of the C5–6 myotomes and the upper trunk of the brachial plexus. Chest X‐ray and electromyographic studies documented paralysis of the left diaphragm. One year after onset, muscle strength returned to normal, but radiographic and electrophysiologic findings of diaphragm paralysis were unchanged. Muscle Nerve 38: 1070–1073, 2008
Scheduling and power control for MAC layer design in multihop IR‐UWB networks
Authors: Pilakkat Reena , Jacob Lillykutty
Published: May 2009

Recently, a number of researchers have proposed media access control (MAC) designs for ultra‐wideband (UWB) networks. Among them, designs based on scheduling and power control seem to be of great promise, particularly for quality‐of‐service (QoS) traffic. We investigate the efficiencies of many different choices for scheduling and power allocation for QoS traffic in a multihop impulse radio (IR)‐UWB network, with the objective of achieving both high spectral efficiency and low transmission power. Specifically, we compare different scheduling schemes employing a protocol interference‐based contention graph as well as a physical interference‐based contention graph. We propose a relative distance to determine adjacency in the protocol interference‐based contention graph. Using our improved protocol interference model with graph‐based scheduling, we obtained better performance than the physical interference‐based approach employing link‐by‐link scheduling. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Unveiling the underlying relationships over a network for monitoring purposes
Authors: Dechouniotis Dimitrios , Leontiou Nikolaos , Dimitropoulos Xenofontas , Kind Andreas , Denazis Spyros
Published: May 2009

Nowadays traffic monitoring and analysis tools provide poor information about traffic volume without giving any clear view of what the hidden rules and relationships that govern these flows are. Since the majority of flows is generated by services (web browsing, email, p2p) and most of these applications are dependent on many network assets (servers and databases) we should discover the underlying relationships of every application. We present a technique that discovers the hidden relationships among components of a network that consist of parts of specific applications. From time information and flow attributes, such as IP addresses and service ports, our method using a novel hybrid genetic algorithm produces a small set of fuzzy rules that can reveal the underlying relationships over a network without any guidance. These dependencies build a service graph which can become a useful tool for fault localization, monitoring service performance, designing changes and anomaly detection. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Characterization of the accuracy of the fast multipole method in particle simulations
Authors: Cruz Felipe A. , Barba L. A.
Published: May 2009

The fast multipole method (FMM) is a fast summation algorithm capable of accelerating pairwise interaction calculations, known as N‐body problems, from an algorithmic complexity of 𝒪(N2) to 𝒪(N) for N particles. The algorithm has brought a dramatic increase in the capability of particle simulations in many application areas, such as electrostatics, particle formulations of fluid mechanics, and others. Although the literature on the subject provides theoretical error bounds for the FMM approximation, there are not many reports on the measured errors in a suite of computational experiments that characterize the accuracy of the method in relation with the different parameters available to the user. We have performed such an experimental investigation, and summarized the results of about 1500 calculations using the FMM algorithm, applied to the 2D vortex particle method. In addition to the more standard diagnostic of the maximum error, we supply illustrations of the spatial distribution of the errors, offering visual evidence of all the contributing factors to the overall approximation accuracy: multipole expansion, local expansion, hierarchical spatial decomposition (interaction lists, local domain, far domain). This presentation is a contribution to any researcher wishing to incorporate the FMM acceleration to their application code, as it aids in understanding where accuracy is gained or compromised. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Initial testing of aplidin by the pediatric pre‐clinical testing program
Authors: Morton Christopher L. , Houghton Peter J. , Gorlick Richard , Kolb E. Anders , Lock Richard , Carol Hernan , Keir Stephen T. , Reynolds C. Patrick , Kang Min H. , Maris John M. , Billups Catherine , Smith Malcolm A.
Published: May 2009

Aplidin was tested in vitro at concentrations ranging from from 0.1 nM to 1.0 µM and in vivo at a dose of 0.6 mg/kg administered intraperitoneally on an every 4 days × 3‐schedule that was repeated at day 21. In vitro, Aplidin was most active against acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) cell lines. In vivo, Aplidin induced significant differences in EFS distribution in 12 of 28 (43%) solid tumor models and 2 of 6 evaluable ALL models. Aplidin showed potent in vitro activity and induced significant in vivo tumor growth inhibition in some xenografts, but did not induce tumor regressions. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009;53:509–512. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Initial testing (stage 1) of vorinostat (SAHA) by the pediatric preclinical testing program
Authors: Keshelava Nino , Houghton Peter J. , Morton Christopher L. , Lock Richard B. , Carol Hernan , Keir Stephen T. , Maris John M. , Reynolds C. Patrick , Gorlick Richard , Kolb E. Anders , Wu Jianrong , Smith Malcolm A.
Published: May 2009

Vorinostat, a histone deacetylase inhibitor, was evaluated against the in vitro and in vivo childhood solid tumor and leukemia models in the Pediatric Preclinical Testing Program (PPTP). In vitro testing was performed by the DIMSCAN cytotoxicity assay. In vivo, vorinostat was administered intraperitoneally to mice bearing xenografts. Vorinostat demonstrated 2‐log cell growth inhibitory activity in vitro, but generally at concentrations not sustainable in the clinic. No objective responses were observed for any of the solid tumor or acute lymphoblastic leukemia xenografts. Preclinical studies with appropriate drug combinations may provide direction for further clinical evaluations of vorinostat against selected pediatric cancers. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009;53:505–508. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A novel mutation in a family with DNA ligase IV deficiency syndrome
Authors: Unal Sule , Cerosaletti Karen , Uckan‐Cetinkaya Duygu , Cetin Mualla , Gumruk Fatma
Published: May 2009

DNA ligase IV deficiency syndrome (LIG4 syndrome) is a rare autosomal recessive disorder characterized by microcephaly, growth retardation, low birth weight, dysmorphic facial findings, immunodeficiency, pancytopenia, and radiosensitivity due to impaired repair of DNA double‐strand breaks by non‐homologous end‐joining. Herein, we report two siblings with LIG4 syndrome with a novel mutation. One of the siblings, who had normocellular marrow, had autologous reconstitution after initial non‐myeloablative conditioning and underwent successful second hematopoietic stem cell transplantation after conditioning with busulfan, cyclophosphamide, and anti‐thymocyte globulin. Our findings indicate that transplantation with myeloablative conditioning can be used successfully in LIG4 syndrome patients. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009;53:482–484. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Simultaneous acute splenic sequestration and transient aplastic crisis in children with sickle cell disease
Authors: Yates Amber Mayfield , Hankins Jane S. , Mortier Nicole A. , Aygun Banu , Ware Russell E.
Published: May 2009

Acute splenic sequestration crisis (ASSC) is a hematological emergency in young children with sickle cell disease (SCD), characterized by worsening anemia and splenomegaly, usually with reticulocytosis and thrombocytopenia. Transient aplastic crisis (TAC) due to parvovirus B19 infection occurs in older children with SCD, and typically manifests as worsening anemia with reticulocytopenia and no splenomegaly. Five older children with SCD (4 HbSC, 1 HbSS on hydroxyurea) developed ASSC concurrent with TAC and had a severe clinical course. Our cases suggest that older children with SCD and acute parvovirus infection should be monitored closely for splenomegaly and multi‐system dysfunction. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009;53:479–481. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Level of activity in children undergoing cancer treatment
Authors: Winter Corinna , Müller Carsten , Brandes Mirko , Brinkmann Anja , Hoffmann Christiane , Hardes Jendrik , Gosheger Georg , Boos Joachim , Rosenbaum Dieter
Published: May 2009

Background

The diagnosis of cancer bears severe implications for pediatric patients. One immense restriction consists in a reduced level of activity due to different factors. Physical activity affects various aspects of development and can be regarded as an essential part of a child's life. In the present study physical activity in patients undergoing cancer therapy was quantified in order to determine the extent of the restriction and to provide baseline information for the assessment of possible interventions.

Procedure

Physical activity in 80 patients and 45 healthy children matched for age and gender was measured using the StepWatch 3™ Activity Monitor (SAM, OrthoCare Innovations).

Results

Pediatric cancer patients, at 2,787 gait cycles (gcs) per day, were significantly less active than their healthy counterparts (8,096 gcs). Patients were significantly more active at home than during inpatient stays (3,185 gcs compared to 1,830 gcs), and patients with bone tumors were less active than those with leukemia regarding both, the amount (1,849 gcs vs. 2,992 gcs) and the intensity of activity.

Conclusion

The present study quantified an often observed but so far hardly assessable problem. Activity in cancer patients is considerably reduced and patients with bone tumors are at increased risk from the detrimental effects of prolonged inactivity. Both our findings and the accepted fact that activity is an essential element of child development confirm the need for interventions tailored to a patient's needs and abilities during the course of treatment. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009;53:438–443. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Ultrasound‐guided core needle biopsy for the diagnosis of rhabdomyosarcoma in childhood
Authors: Chowdhury Tanzina , Barnacle Alex , Haque Saira , Sebire Neil , Gibson Sian , Anderson John , Roebuck Derek
Published: May 2009

Background

Most commonly a tissue diagnosis of rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) in children is made by biopsy as opposed to primary resection. Open surgical procedures are often recommended to obtain sufficient material for accurate and complete diagnostic work up. Our institution has routinely used image‐guided needle biopsies for soft tissue tumour diagnosis. We therefore sought to assess diagnostic accuracy and completeness, and procedure safety of consecutive patients diagnosed by needle biopsies in a single institution.

Methods

A retrospective review of consecutive biopsies of patients who were diagnosed with RMS or undifferentiated sarcoma in a single institution over a 9‐year period.

Results

There were 24 children diagnosed with RMS or undifferentiated sarcoma who underwent 37 procedures (30 primary site and 7 draining lymph nodes). In the primary site diagnostic procedures, definitive diagnosis was made in all cases. In the majority of cases there was sufficient material for molecular analysis, cytogenetics and freezing. There were no complications of biopsy.

Conclusions

In the hands of experienced operators, image‐guided needle biopsies of RMSs allow for accurate diagnosis, allow sufficient material to be obtained for supplementary studies and research, and are associated with minimal morbidity. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009;53:356–360. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cytomegalovirus infection in children undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in Chile
Authors: Paris Claudia , Kopp Katherine , King Alejandra , Santolaya Maria E. , Zepeda Ana J. , Palma Julia
Published: May 2009

Background

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection remains as an important cause of morbidity and mortality in children undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Our aim was to assess the incidence, risk factors, and outcome related to CMV infection in children after HSCT in a developing country.

Methods

From October 1, 1999, to December 31, 2005, we prospectively studied all patients admitted to the HSCT unit at Hospital Luis Calvo Mackenna in Santiago, Chile. Serologic studies before transplantation and weekly CMV infection surveillance (antigenemia or quantitative PCR) were routinely obtained. Patients with positive antigenemia or quantitative PCR received pre‐emptive therapy with ganciclovir, and cases of unfavorable clinical evolution, persistent positive antigenemia, or quantitative PCR after 14 days of ganciclovir were treated with foscarnet.

Results

Ninety‐seven patients received HSCT. Their median age was 8 years (range, 3 months to 24 years) and their overall survival was 67%. CMV reactivation was diagnosed in 26 patients. Of these, three developed CMV disease (two interstitial pneumonia, one hemorrhagic cystitis). One of the patients with pneumonia died. Risk factors identified were pre‐transplant serologic status (positive recipient), acute and chronic graft versus host disease (GvHD), GvHD prophylaxis, and treatment with antithymocyte globulin.

Conclusions

The rate and prognosis of CMV infection among children treated at our HSCT unit is similar to those reported from industrialized countries. These findings reflect adequate prevention and management of CMV infection within our program. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009;53:453–458. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Heparin induced thrombocytopenia and re‐thrombosis associated with warfarin and fondaparinux in a child
Authors: Maurer Scott H. , Wilimas Judith A. , Wang Winfred C. , Reiss Ulrike M.
Published: May 2009

An 11‐year‐old female developed heparin induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) with thrombosis during therapy for lower extremity deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism. Transition from bivalirudin, a direct thrombin inhibitor (DTI), to warfarin resulted in extensive re‐thrombosis, and fondaparinux therapy similarly failed. She was then treated with argatroban, and transitioned successfully to warfarin after 9 weeks. The risk of re‐thrombosis was ultimately reduced by allowing time for the thrombogenic potential to abate. The argatroban/warfarin transition was monitored with chromogenic factor X levels. This case highlights several difficult problems in pediatric thrombosis. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009;53:468–471. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Bin1 is linked to metastatic potential and chemosensitivity in neuroblastoma
Authors: Zhong Xiaoling , Hoelz Derek J. , Kumar Hari R. , Sandoval John A. , Rescorla Frederick J. , Hickey Robert J. , Malkas Linda H.
Published: May 2009

Background

Neuroblastoma (NB) is the most common extracranial solid tumor in children. At the time of diagnosis, the tumor has metastasized in as many as 7 of 10 cases, and survival in high‐risk patients remains poor. Accurate classification of high‐risk patients is very important since this determines treatment plan, and although a consensus risk classification system has been established for NB, it contains few specific molecular markers that account for aggressive nature and metastatic potential of the tumor. Bin1 expression is reduced in breast, NB, and other cancer types and the reduction correlates with high‐risk clinical features. Here we hypothesize that Bin1 has an inhibitory role in metastasis, and therefore decrease in its expression may be a marker of high‐risk NB.

Procedure

Initially, breast cancer and NB cell lines derived from metastasis were examined for Bin1 expression. Then, a stable Bin1‐overexpressing NB cell line was created and evaluated for in vitro metastatic behaviors using anoikis, invasion, and migration assays, and chemoresponsiveness using MTT assay.

Results

Reduced Bin1 was detected in all cancer cell lines examined, and forced Bin1 overexpression increased NB cell anoikis and enhanced the cell killing by doxorubicin. However, Bin1 overexpression did not significantly affect cell invasion, motility, or proliferation.

Conclusions

Bin1 appears to function as a metastasis suppressor and chemosensitizer in NB, and resistance to anoikis may be an important metastatic mechanism. Thus, Bin1 expression status could serve as a marker for metastatic potential and chemosensitivity thereby allowing for more accurate classifications of high‐risk NB patients. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009;53:332–337. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
First trimester measurements of nasal bone length using three‐dimensional ultrasound
Authors: Chen Min , Wang Hui Fang , Leung Tak Yeung , Fung Tak Yuen , Chan Lin Wai , Sahota Daljit Singh , Lao Tzu‐Hsi Terence , Lau Tze Kin
Published: May 2009

Objectives

To investigate the feasibility and reproducibility of measurements of nasal bone length using a three‐dimensional (3D) ultrasound in the first trimester.

Methods

In a prospective study, 118 consecutive pregnant women attending for Down syndrome screening at 11–13 + 6 weeks were recruited. They had successful fetal nasal bone measurement by two‐dimensional (2D) ultrasound by four operators. Three‐dimensional volumes were recorded in the mid‐sagittal plane of fetal profile by the fifth operator and examined using multiplanar techniques. Another independent investigator randomly compared his measurements with one of the four operators.

Results

In the subsequent 3D examination, the nasal bone length could be examined in 94 cases (79.7%). The mean difference between the 2D and 3D measurements was 0.19 mm [95% confidence interval (CI) 0.08 to 0.31] (P < 0.05). Limits of agreement were −0.73 to 1.11. The mean differences between these two observers were 0.66 mm (95% CI −0.47 to 0.86) (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

There was significant intermethod difference between the results obtained by 2D and 3D, as well as substantial interobserver variation in 3D measurement of fetal nasal bone length in the first trimester. Independent 3D measurement of nasal bone offers no additional advantages over 2D sonography. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.