bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mothers' psychological contracts: Does supervisor breach explain intention to leave the organization?
Authors: Botsford Morgan Whitney , King Eden B.
Published: September 2012

Recent evidence suggests mothers with infants are leaving the workforce (Cohany & Sok, 2007; Johnson, 2007), but research has not yet clarified why mothers make such a decision. The current research proposes that mothers form psychological contracts including content related to family that supervisors do not fulfill, resulting in intention to leave the organization. In a study of first‐time mothers, participants reported experiencing contract breach. Findings also suggested supervisors may have an opportunity to control the outcomes of breach and retain mothers by effectively managing perceptions of fair treatment (i.e., interactional justice). This is the first empirical research to indicate that mothers' intentions to leave depend on fulfillment of their psychological contracts related to family and fair treatment from their supervisor.
Methylphenidate‐mediated reduction in prefrontal hemodynamic responses to working memory task: a functional near‐infrared spectroscopy study
Authors: Ramasubbu Rajamannar , Singh Harinder , Zhu Haifeng , Dunn Jeff F.
Published: September 2012

Objective

Functional near‐infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) is a non‐invasive optical technique for bedside evaluation of cerebral metabolism that has clinical potential for monitoring the efficacy of pharmacological treatment. In this pilot study, we investigated the cognitive effects of methylphenidate (MP) on prefrontal function using fNIRS in healthy subjects.

Methods

Thirteen right‐handed healthy subjects underwent working memory tasks (0‐back and 2‐back) after a single oral dose of MP (20 mg) or placebo administered in a double‐blind crossover design on two different days separated by 1–3 days. We measured changes in oxyhemoglobin (oxy‐Hb) and deoxyhemoglobin (deoxy‐Hb) concentrations during the tasks in bilateral prefrontal regions after MP or placebo administration using two‐channel fNIRS.

Results

There were significantly more correct responses and fewer missed responses during the 2‐back task performance after MP treatment as compared with placebo. Baseline‐corrected oxy‐Hb was significantly decreased after MP treatment compared with the placebo in the 2‐back task in the right frontal region but was not different in the 0‐back task. Baseline‐corrected deoxy‐Hb and total‐Hb concentrations were not significant between MP and placebo conditions in either of the cognitive tasks.

Conclusions

These data are consistent with previous positron emission tomography findings of MP‐mediated reduction in lateral prefrontal activity accompanied by improved cognitive performance. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Is Ginkgo biloba a cognitive enhancer in healthy individuals? A meta‐analysis
Authors: Laws Keith R. , Sweetnam Hilary , Kondel Tejinder K.
Published: September 2012

Objective

We conducted a meta‐analysis to examine whether Ginkgo biloba (G. biloba) enhances cognitive function in healthy individuals.

Methods

Scopus, Medline, Google Scholar databases and recent qualitative reviews were searched for studies examining the effects of G. biloba on cognitive function in healthy individuals. We identified randomised controlled trials containing data on memory (K = 13), executive function (K = 7) and attention (K = 8) from which effect sizes could be derived. The analyses provided measures of memory, executive function and attention in 1132, 534 and 910 participants, respectively.

Results

Effect sizes were non‐significant and close to zero for memory (d = −0.04: 95%CI −0.17 to 0.07), executive function (d = −0.05: 95%CI −0.17 to 0.05) and attention (d = −0.08: 95%CI −0.21 to 0.02). Meta‐regressions showed that effect sizes were not related to participant age, duration of the trial, daily dose, total dose or sample size.

Conclusions

We report that G. biloba had no ascertainable positive effects on a range of targeted cognitive functions in healthy individuals. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The tumor suppressor microRNA‐29c is downregulated and restored by celecoxib in human gastric cancer cells
Authors: Saito Yoshimasa , Suzuki Hidekazu , Imaeda Hiroyuki , Matsuzaki Juntaro , Hirata Kenro , Tsugawa Hitoshi , Hibino Sana , Kanai Yae , Saito Hidetsugu , Hibi Toshifumi
Published: September 2012

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small noncoding RNAs that function as endogenous silencers of target genes and play critical roles during carcinogenesis. The selective cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) inhibitor celecoxib has been highlighted as a potential drug for treatment of gastrointestinal tumors. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of miRNAs in gastric carcinogenesis and the feasibility of a new therapeutic approach for gastric cancer. miRNA expression profiles were examined in 53 gastric tumors including gastric adenomas (atypical epithelia), early gastric cancers and advanced gastric cancers and in gastric cancer cells treated with celecoxib. miRNA microarray analysis revealed that miR‐29c was significantly downregulated in gastric cancer tissues relative to nontumor gastric mucosae. miR‐29c was significantly activated by celecoxib in gastric cancer cells. Downregulation of miR‐29c was associated with progression of gastric cancer and was more prominent in advanced gastric cancers than in gastric adenomas and early gastric cancer. In addition, expression of the oncogene Mcl‐1, a target of miR‐29c, was significantly increased in gastric cancer tissues relative to nontumor gastric mucosae. Activation of miR‐29c by celecoxib induced suppression of Mcl‐1 and apoptosis in gastric cancer cells. These results suggest that downregulation of the tumor suppressor miR‐29c plays critical roles in the progression of gastric cancer. Selective COX‐2 inhibitors may have clinical promise for the treatment of gastric cancer via restoration of miR‐29c.
Utilization of the Perfluoroarene‐Arene Interaction for Stabilization of Liquid Crystal Phases
Authors: Kishikawa Keiki
Published: September 2012

Utilization of the perfluoroarene‐arene interaction for stabilization of liquid crystal phases is reviewed. This interaction is strong (3.7–5.6 kcal/mol), but it is difficult to generate stable liquid crystal phases by using it. From the examples in this review, it is strongly suggested that flatness of the mesogenic units is important for obtaining stable liquid crystal phases. Introduction of a perfluorinated benzene ring to a rodlike molecule is effective in generating local biaxiality in the nematic and smectic A phases. Furthermore, the absence of an odd‐even effect and the presence of a “trans‐gauche‐gauche” effect in the liquid crystal phases of monoalkylated rodlike molecules possessing a pentafluorophenyl group are explained by suppression of the molecular spin movements.
Application of a two‐stage temperature control strategy to enhance 1,3‐propanediol productivity by Clostridium butyricum
Authors: Zhu Chunjie , Fang Baishan
Published: September 2012

BACKGROUND: The purpose of the present work was to enhance 1,3‐propanediol productivity during the batch cultivation on a type of raw glycerol by application of a two‐stage temperature control strategy.

RESULTS: First, the effect of the raw glycerol on microbial growth and 1,3‐propanediol production was investigated. The highest 1,3‐propanediol productivity, 1.93 g L−1 h−1, was achieved when the initial raw glycerol concentration was 6% (v/v). Second, the effect of temperature on microbial growth and 1,3‐propanediol production was investigated and kinetic analysis was carried out. The results indicated that 37 °C favored microbial growth while 35 °C was best for 1,3‐propanediol production. Finally, a two‐stage temperature control strategy was applied in 1,3‐propanediol production. The incubation temperature was kept at 37 °C from inoculation to 2 h and then switched to 35 °C. Compared with batch cultivations at 35 and 37 °C, the fermentation time was shortened from 10 to 9.2 h, resulting in an increase in 1,3‐propanediol productivity of around 11%.

CONCLUSION: 1,3‐propanediol productivity was enhanced effectively by application of a two‐stage temperature control strategy. © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Antibacterial activity of silver‐doped manganese dioxide nanoparticles on multidrug‐resistant bacteria
Authors: Kunkalekar R. K. , Naik M. M. , Dubey S. K. , Salker A. V.
Published: September 2012

BACKGROUND: As a result of evolution of multiple drug resistance in human pathogens (bacteria) there is increasing demand for novel antibacterial agents, and recently, due to their high antibacterial and catalytic activities, metal nanoparticles have attracted the attention of researchers and medical microbiologists worldwide.

RESULTS: Ni‐, Ce‐ and Ag‐doped MnO2 nanoparticles were synthesized by a co‐precipitation method. Antibacterial activity of these synthesized nanoparticles on methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus and lead‐resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa strain 4EA was investigated using a disc diffusion method. Only Ag‐doped MnO2 nanoparticles showed an antibacterial property against methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus and lead‐resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa strain 4EA at low levels of 60 µg/disc and 85 µg/disc, respectively. Scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy (SEM‐TEM) coupled with energy dispersive X‐ray (EDX) analysis revealed the nano‐size and composition of these synthesized nanoparticles.

CONCLUSION: It was confirmed through a disc diffusion method that chemically synthesized silver doped MnO2 nanoparticles have antibacterial activity against multidrug‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus and lead‐resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa strain 4EA at low levels therefore these nanoparticles can be employed to fight and prevent infections caused by multidrug‐resistant bacterial pathogens. © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Dynamic and local gas holdup studies in external loop recirculating airlift reactor with two rolls of fiberglass packing using electrical resistance tomography
Authors: Hamood‐ur‐Rehman Mian , Ein‐Mozaffari Farhad , Dahman Yaser
Published: September 2012

BACKGROUND: Airlift bioreactors have been used extensively in biotechnology industries in recent years in a variety of arrangements and applications. The insertion of packing inside the bioreactors has the potential to provide high productivity within a compact size through utilizing immobilized species.

RESULTS: A novel recirculating external loop airlift bioreactor that has two rolls of fiberglass packing and a gas distributor in between was designed and built. Electrical resistance tomography (ERT) images showed that the gas holdup increased after installing the packing and the gas distributor. Gas holdup in the riser increased with decreasing static liquid height in the bioreactor. This decreased the liquid superficial velocity, which contributed to a higher gas holdup in the bioreactor. Results also showed that riser gas holdup varied slightly with different sparger configurations. Higher gas holdup increases the oxygen mass transfer rate by increasing the residence time and interfacial mass transfer area.

CONCLUSION: ERT results showed that fiberglass packing with an installed gas distributor in bioreactors can achieve higher gas holdup at higher superficial gas velocity. This can contribute to improved conversion in bioreactors with packing through utilizing higher biomass concentrations and higher oxygen concentration. © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
T2* MRI of minimal hepatic encephalopathy and cognitive correlates in vivo
Authors: Liu Jian‐Ying , Ding Jing , Lin Dong , He Yi‐Feng , Dai Zhi , Chen Cai‐Zhong , Cheng Wei‐Zhong , Wang He , Zhou Jian , Wang Xin
Published: September 2012

Purpose:

To evaluate regional brain iron deposition in minimal hepatic encephalopathy (MHE) patients using T2*‐weighted gradient‐echo imaging and to explore the relationship between T2* MR changes and cognitive performance.

Materials and Methods:

Forty hepatitis‐B virus (HBV)‐related cirrhotic patients and 22 age‐, sex‐, and education‐matched healthy controls were included in this study. Of the patients, twenty eight patients were diagnosed with MHE. All subjects were administered Number Connection Test‐A (NCT‐A), Letter Digit Substitution Test (LDST), Rey‐Osterrieth Complex Figure Test (RCFT), and the Mini‐Mental State Examination (MMSE). T2*‐weighted gradient‐echo images were acquired using 3 Tesla MRI. Phase values (putative iron levels) in the frontal–basal ganglia–thalamocortical circuits were measured. Spearman correlation and multiple linear regression analysis were performed.

Results:

MHE patients exhibited significantly prolonged NCT‐A time and decreased LDST, RCFT immediate and delayed recall scores. Significant decreases of phase values in the bilateral putamen were detected in MHE patients compared to without MHE patients and controls. Multiple linear regression analysis confirmed significant correlations between the phase values in the putamen and right frontal white matter and cognitive performances by MHE patients.

Conclusion:

Decreased phase values in the frontal cortical–basal ganglial circuits independently contribute to cognitive impairments in MHE patients. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2013;37:179–186. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
In‐depth study of the protein molecular structures of different types of dried distillers grains with solubles and their relationship to digestive characteristics
Authors: Liu Bo , Thacker Philip , McKinnon John , Yu Peiqiang
Published: September 2012

Background

Dried distillers grains with solubles (DDGS) have been extensively utilised in ruminant rations in western Canada and USA, and it is important to ensure their consistent quality. Traditional chemical methods do not consider the inherent structural changes of feed ingredients. Synchrotron‐based Fourier transform infrared microspectroscopy (SFTIRM) and diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy (DRIFT) have been utilised to detect the changes in molecular structure of several feedstuffs (e.g. barley, flaxseed and alfalfa). However, similar structural information is lacking for DDGS. The objectives of this study were to identify differences in protein molecular structures between different grains (wheat, triticale and corn) and DDGS (wheat DDGS, triticale DDGS, corn DDGS and wheat and corn blend DDGS) using SFTIRM and DRIFT and to reveal the relationship between changes in protein molecular structure and the digestive characteristics of the protein in DDGS when fed to dairy cattle.

Results

The protein molecular structure studies showed significant decreases (P < 0.01) in the amide I to amide II ratio and the α‐helix to β‐sheet ratio between grains and their DDGS. Protein digestive characteristics were correlated with protein molecular structures in grains and DDGS, and prediction equations were established to estimate protein digestive characteristics of DDGS using protein molecular structure parameters. For the DVE/OEB‐1994 model, one of the best prediction equations was for truly absorbed protein in the small intestine (DVE) = 296.17 − 38.98 × the amide I to amide II ratio (R2 = 0.72). For the NRC‐2001 system, one of the best prediction equations was for metabolisable protein (MP) = 300.96 − 43.32 × the amide I to amide II ratio (R2 = 0.76).

Conclusion

Protein molecular structure varies between different DDGS and their original grains, and this variation is associated with the digestive characteristics of the proteins in the DDGS and their original grains.
Effect of treated and untreated domestic wastewater on seed germination, seedling growth and amylase and lipase activities in Avena sativa L
Authors: Fendri Imen , Ben Saad Rania , Khemakhem Bassem , Ben Halima Nihed , Gdoura Radhouane , Abdelkafi Slim
Published: September 2012

Background

Oats (Avena sativa L.) are a potential economically viable source of lipids and starch for use in foods. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of treated and untreated urban wastewater on seed germination, growth parameters and lipase and amylase activities in A. sativa.

Results

Untreated wastewater was highly toxic in nature and had an inhibitory effect on seed germination and seedling growth. However, after bacterial treatment, its toxicity was significantly reduced and it showed improved seed germination. It was observed that treated wastewater had no inhibitory effect on seedling growth parameters. However, A. sativa seeds treated with untreated effluent showed reduced lipase and amylase activities.

Conclusion

Treated wastewater could be used for irrigation purposes provided that it satisfies other conditions fixed by legislation. © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Comparison of stem morphology and anatomy of two alfalfa clonal lines exhibiting divergent cell wall composition
Authors: Gronwald John W , Bucciarelli Bruna
Published: September 2012

BACKGROUND

In previous research, two alfalfa clonal lines (252 and 1283) were identified that exhibited environmentally stable differences in stem cell walls. Compared with stems of 1283, stems of 252 have a higher cell wall concentration and greater amounts of lignin and cellulose but reduced levels of pectic sugar residues. These results suggest greater deposition of secondary xylem and a reduction in pith in stems of 252 compared with 1283.

RESULTS

The stem morphology and anatomy of first‐cut and second‐cut harvests of field‐grown 1283 and 252 were examined. For both harvests, stems of 1283 were thicker and had a higher leaf/stem ratio compared with stems of 252. Stem cross‐sections of both genotypes were stained for lignin, and the proportions of stem area that were pith and secondary xylem were measured using ImageJ. Stems of 252 exhibited greater deposition of secondary xylem and a reduction in pith proportion compared with stems of 1283 for the first‐cut harvest, but this difference was not statistically significant for the second‐cut harvest.

CONCLUSION

The results indicate that the proportions of secondary xylem and pith are not environmentally stable in these two genotypes and hence cannot be the sole basis for the differences in cell wall concentration/composition. © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry.
Risk predictors of underestimation and the need for sentinel node biopsy in patients diagnosed with ductal carcinoma in situ by preoperative needle biopsy
Authors: Park Hyung Seok , Park Seho , Cho JungHoon , Park Ji Min , Kim Seung Il , Park Byeong‐Woo
Published: September 2012

Background

Diagnosis of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) by core needle biopsy showed a high rate of underestimation of invasiveness, and performing sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) in DCIS patients was controversial.

Methods

We analyzed 340 DCIS patients who were diagnosed by needle biopsies. Final pathology and clinicopathological features were reviewed. Predictors were accessed using the Chi‐square test and a binary logistic regression model.

Results

The overall DCIS underestimation rate was 42.6%. The underestimation was significantly related to the palpability, mass or calcification by ultrasonography, grade, suspicious microinvasion, and biopsy method in univariate analysis. In multivariate analysis, palpability, ultrasonographic calcification or mass, suspicious microinvasion, and core needle biopsy were independent predictors of underestimation of invasive cancer. In cases with one or no risk predictors, the underestimation rate was 14.3%, whereas, in those with five predictors, it increased to 90.9%. Among 144 invasive cancer patients who underwent axillary staging, 15.4% had node metastasis.

Conclusions

DCIS diagnosed by preoperative needle biopsy has a high probability of underestimation, and 15% of invasive cancer patients have node metastasis. SLNB may be justified in DCIS patients undergoing needle biopsies, and caution should be exercised in omitting SLNB in patients with one or no risk predictors. J. Surg. Oncol. 2013;107:388–392. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Composite cryogel with immobilized concanavalin A for affinity chromatography of glycoproteins
Authors: Hajizadeh Solmaz , Kirsebom Harald , Leistner Andre , Mattiasson Bo
Published: September 2012

Composite cryogels containing porous adsorbent particles were prepared under cryogelation conditions. The composites with immobilized concanavalin A (Con A) were used for capturing glycoproteins. Adsorbent particles were introduced into the structure in order to improve the capacity and to facilitate the handling of the particles. The monolithic composite cryogels were produced from suspensions of polyvinyl alcohol particles and porous adsorbent particles and cross‐linked under acidic conditions at sub‐zero temperature. The cryogels were epoxy activated and Con A was immobilized as an affinity ligand. Binding and elution of horseradish peroxidase (HRP) was studied in batch experiment and in a chromatographic setup. Increasing adsorbent concentration in composite cryogels will increase ligand density, which therefore enhances the amount of bound HRP from 0.98 till 2.9 (milligram enzyme per milliliter of gel) in the chromatographic system. The material was evaluated in 10 cycles for binding and elution of HRP.
Application of ionic liquid in liquid phase microextraction technology
Authors: Han Dandan , Tang Baokun , Ri Lee Yu , Ho Row Kyung
Published: September 2012

Ionic liquids (ILs) are novel nonmolecular solvents. Their unique properties, such as high thermal stability, tunable viscosity, negligible vapor pressure, nonflammability, and good solubility for inorganic and organic compounds, make them excellent candidates as extraction media for a range of microextraction techniques. Many physical properties of ILs can be varied, and the structural design can be tuned to impart the desired functionality and enhance the analyte extraction selectivity, efficiency, and sensitivity. This paper provides an overview of the applications of ILs in liquid phase microextraction technology, such as single‐drop microextraction, hollow fiber based liquid phase microextraction, and dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction. The sensitivity, linear calibration range, and detection limits for a range of target analytes in the methods were analyzed to determine the advantages of ILs in liquid phase microextraction.
Derivatization of chiral carboxylic acids with (S)‐anabasine for increasing detectability and enantiomeric separation in LC/ESI‐MS/MS
Authors: Higashi Tatsuya , Kawasaki Megumi , Tadokoro Hiroaki , Ogawa Shoujiro , Tsutsui Haruhito , Fukushima Takeshi , Toyo'oka Toshimasa
Published: September 2012

A simple and practical derivatization procedure for increasing the detectability and enantiomeric separation of chiral carboxylic acids in LC/ESI‐MS/MS has been developed. (S)‐Anabasine (ANA) was used as the derivatization reagent and rapidly reacted with carboxylic acids [3‐hydroxypalmitic acid (3‐OH‐PA), 2‐(β‐carboxyethyl)‐6‐hydroxy‐2,7,8‐trimethylchroman (γ‐CEHC), and etodolac] in the presence of 4‐(4,6‐dimethoxy‐1,3,5‐triazin‐2‐yl)‐4‐methylmorpholium chloride. The resulting ANA‐derivatives were highly responsive in ESI‐MS operating in the positive‐ion mode and gave characteristic product ions during MS/MS, which enabled sensitive detection using selected reaction monitoring; the detection responses of the ANA‐derivatives were increased by 20–160‐fold over those of the intact carboxylic acids and the limits of detection were in the low femtomole range (1.8–11 fmol on the column). The ANA‐derivatization was also effective for the enatiomeric separation of the chiral carboxylic acids; the resolution was 1.92, 1.75, and 2.03 for 3‐OH‐PA, γ‐CHEC, and etodolac, respectively. The derivatization procedure was successfully applied to a biological sample analysis; the derivatization followed by LC/ESI‐MS/MS enabled the separation and detection of trace amounts of 3‐OH‐PA in neonatal dried blood spot and γ‐CEHC in human saliva with a simple pretreatment and small sample volume.
Invasive sinonasal actinomycosis
Authors: Vorasubin Nopawan , Wu Arthur W. , Day Christina , Suh Jeffrey D.
Published: September 2012

Actinomycosis is a rare anaerobic bacterial infection typically caused byActinomyces israelii. Although part of normal flora in the oral cavity, and respiratory and digestive tracts,A israeliican give rise to pathologic infections most commonly reported in the oral cavity from odontogenic causes. We present a rare case of invasive actinomycosis presenting with extensive midface destruction involving the maxilla and paranasal sinuses, with mucosal necrosis mimicking an aggressive neoplasm. The diagnosis is usually reached only after histopathologic analysis showing characteristic sulfur granules with filamentous gram‐positive, non–acid‐fast bacteria. We review the literature on its epidemiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis.
Differential response rates to irradiation among patients with human papillomavirus positive and negative oropharyngeal cancer
Authors: Chen Allen M. , Li Judy , Beckett Laurel A. , Zhara Talia , Farwell Gregory , Lau Derick H. , Gandour‐Edwards Regina , Vaughan Andrew T. , Purdy James A.
Published: September 2012

Objectives/Hypothesis:

To evaluate the responsiveness of human papillomavirus (HPV) ‐positive and HPV‐negative oropharyngeal cancer to intensity‐modulated radiotherapy (IMRT), using axial imaging obtained daily during the course of image‐guided radiotherapy (IGRT).

Study Design:

Observational cohort study with matched‐pair analysis of patients irradiated for HPV‐positive and HPV‐negative oropharygeal cancer.

Methods and Materials:

Ten patients treated by IMRT to 70 Gy for locally advanced, HPV‐positive squamous cell carcinoma of the oropharynx were matched to one HPV‐negative control subject by age, gender, performance status, T‐category, tumor location, and the use of concurrent chemotherapy. The gross tumor volume (GTV) was delineated on daily IGRT scans obtained via kilovoltage cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT). Mathematical modeling using fitted mixed‐effects repeated measure analysis was performed to quantitatively and descriptively assess the trajectory of tumor regression.

Results:

Patients with HPV‐positive tumors experienced a more rapid rate of tumor regression between day 1 of IMRT and the beginning of week 2 (−33% Δ GTV) compared to their counterparts with HPV‐negative tumors (−10% Δ GTV), which was statistically significant (p<0.001). During this initial period, the average absolute change in GTV was −22.9 cc/week for HPV‐positive tumors and −5.9 cc/week for HPV‐negative tumors (p<0.001). After week 2 of IMRT, the rates of GTV regression were comparable between the two groups.

Conclusions:

HPV‐positive oropharyngeal cancers exhibited an enhanced response to radiation, characterized by a dramatically more rapid initial regression than those with HPV‐negative tumors. Implications for treatment de‐intensification in the context of future clinical trials and the possible mechanisms underlying this increased radiosensitivity will be discussed. Laryngoscope, 2013
A fabricated forearm free flap with accompanying phonation tube for simultaneous reconstruction of a pharyngolaryngeal circumferential defect and voice loss
Authors: Lee Jehn‐Chuan , Hsu Wei‐Ting , Yang Cheng‐Chien , Chang Shih‐Hsin
Published: September 2012

Background:

Total pharyngolaryngectomy is potentially ablative surgery, resulting in compromise of some most basic functions of life, including speech and swallowing. Tracheoesophageal puncture is the gold standard for voice restoration. But it still has prosthesis‐related problems.

Objectives/Hypothesis:

We designed a uniquely customized radial forearm free flap (RFFF), which also incorporated a region for phonation tube (PT) creation, for the dual purpose of circumferential laryngopharyngeal defect reconstruction and voice production.

Methods:

From August 2005 to September 2010, there were 18 male patients with late‐stage hypopharyngeal cancer (HPC) or laryngeal cancer (LC) who received one‐stage reconstruction with the fabricated RFFF‐accompanying PT after total pharyngolaryngectomy. We recorded the phonation outcome of phonation efficacy (PE) and maximal phonation time (MPT) postoperatively within 1 month and at least 1 year after surgery.

Results:

Nine patients suffered from HPC and the others suffered from LC. Twelve patients received concurrent chemoradiotherapy after surgery. The follow‐up time was 12 to 56 months (mean 28.7 months). There was no significant variance in the PE (79.72%, SD=21.93% vs. 62.50%, SD=39.60%, respectively; p = 0.115) and MPT (2.58 seconds, SD=1.80 vs. 2.97 seconds, SD=3.96, respectively; p = 0.878) between the first and last follow‐up points, even when the patients were grouped by radiotherapy status after surgery or by disease group.

Conclusions:

The phonation outcome in our experience was satisfactory and it tolerated postoperative radiotherapy during at least the 12‐month follow‐up period.
Evidence‐based surgical management of T1 or T2 temporal bone malignancies
Authors: Zhang Ting , Li Wei , Dai Chunfu , Chi Fanglu , Wang Shuyi , Wang Zhengmin
Published: September 2012

Objectives/Hypothesis:

To determine whether aggressive surgical management is more effective than local canal resection (LCR) for early‐stage temporal bone malignancies.

Study Design:

Retrospective study.

Methods:

Forty‐three cases of early‐stage external auditory canal (EAC) carcinoma who received surgical management between 1993 and 2011 were reviewed. Preoperative computed tomography, enhanced magnetic resonance imaging, pure‐tone audiometry, and biopsy were performed. Patients underwent either LCR or lateral temporal bone resection (LTBR). Postoperative pathologic examinations were conducted on all specimens, including assessment of margin status. The duration of the postoperative follow‐up period ranged from 6 months to 18 years.

Results:

Of 26 patients who underwent LCR, 10 were stage T1 and 16 were T2. Positive surgical margins were identified in 14 patients. During the follow‐up, 12 patients developed recurrence. Of 17 patients who underwent LTBR with superficial parotidectomy, six were stage T1 and 11 were T2. The lateral EAC margins were negative in all 17 patients. In 2/6 T1 patients and in 5/11 T2 patients, tumor cells were identified deep within the EAC cartilage and parotid gland. All of the patients who underwent LTBR survived without evidence of recurrence.

Conclusions:

LTBR with superficial parotidectomy offers the greatest chance of cure for early‐stage EAC carcinoma. Intraoperative frozen sections are necessary to determine the tumor‐free lateral EAC margins. Postoperative radiotherapy is not strongly recommended for early‐stage EAC carcinoma after LTBR. Laryngoscope, 2013
Early glottic carcinoma treated by radiotherapy: Defining a population for surgical salvage
Authors: Smee Robert I. , Williams Janet R. , Broadley Kathryn , Bridger G.P.
Published: September 2012

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Not all patients with early Glottis squamous cell carcinoma will be cured by radiotherapy. This is an audit of a single center's experience with those patients who fail by this approach.

Study Design:

This retrospective study was approved by the IRB (Institutional Review Board); eligibility criterion was patients treated between 1967 and December 2006, TIS, T1, T2 N0 SCC glottic carcinoma, with analysis occurring in 2009, and with a minimum follow‐up of 2 years.

Methods:

The eligibility criteria for this ethics‐approved study was that all patients started a course of radiotherapy for early glottic laryngeal SCC. Data included in the Larynx Cancer database includes information from the Radiation Oncology Department notes, referral letters, and follow‐up information. This is categorized into patient, disease, and treatment factors.

Results:

Of 522 patients who commenced radiotherapy, local failure occurred in 105 patients; a salvage procedure was performed in 89, with surgery only in 83. For these 89 patients, the ultimate local control was 67%, with a larynx preservation procedure in 34%. Nodal failure occurred in 20 of the 522 patients (4%). There was a much higher failure rate in patients unfit for surgery (10/26–38%). Laryngectomy was the main salvage procedure in 55 patients.

CONCLUSIONS:

Early recognition of local failure following radiotherapy for early glottic carcinoma may avoid laryngectomy as a salvage procedure. Laryngoscope, 2013
Improved localization of sestamibi imaging at high‐volume centers
Authors: Singer Michael C. , Pucar Darko , Mathew Manoj , Terris David J.
Published: September 2012

Objectives/Hypothesis:

Sestamibi imaging can provide critical information regarding the location of suspected parathyroid adenomas. However, this modality can be challenging to perform and interpret reliably. The impact of experience on the localizing efficacy of sestamibi scanning was assessed.

Study Design:

Prospective analysis of a consecutive series of patients undergoing parathyroidectomy was undertaken after institutional review board approval was obtained.

Methods:

Patients undergoing parathyroid surgery from October 2003 through June 2011 were considered. Inclusion criteria represented primary surgery for primary hyperparathyroidism, in which a single adenoma was excised and cure obtained. Sestamibi scan results, performed at our institution and at outside imaging centers, were compared to intraoperative findings.

Results:

There were 389 parathyroidectomies performed; 188 patients met inclusion criteria. Fifty‐four patients had sestamibi scans performed at outside institutions; 36 (67%) were localizing and 18 (33%) were nonlocalizing. Among localizing studies, half identified the correct quadrant and half recognized the correct side. At our institution, 147 patients underwent sestamibi imaging; 121 (82%) localized and 26 (18%) did not. Among localizing studies, the correct quadrant was reported in 64% and the correct side in 36%. Of the 147 scans performed at our institution, 13 represented repeat scans of patients with nonlocalizing outside scans. All 13 of these localized; six identified the correct quadrant and seven the side of the adenoma.

Conclusions:

A high volume of experience may improve the yield of sestamibi imaging. Repeating this study at a high‐volume center when it was nonlocalizing elsewhere may provide useful additional information. Laryngoscope, 2013
Low‐level‐laser irradiation induces photorelaxation in coronary arteries and overcomes vasospasm of internal thoracic arteries
Authors: Plass Christian A. , Wieselthaler Georg M. , Podesser Bruno K. , Prusa Alexander M.
Published: September 2012

Background and Objective

As low‐level laser irradiation (LLLI) seems to induce vasodilation besides many other known biological effects, LLLI has been increasingly used in therapy of medical conditions with various irradiation parameters. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of LLLI on photorelaxation of human coronary and internal thoracic arteries (ITA).

Materials and Methods

Thirty vessel segments of ITA used for routine coronary artery bypass grafting as well as left anterior descending coronary arteries (LAD) of patients undergoing cardiac transplantation were cut into 4‐mm rings stored in a modified Krebs–Henseleit solution and evaluated in a myograph. Both types of vessel segments were irradiated by a semiconductor non‐thermal GaAs diode laser operating at a wavelength of 680 nm. After precontraction with thromboxane agonist U44619, respective relaxation responses were evaluated and compared to pharmacological dilatation induced by substance P.

Results

Mean pharmacological vasodilation by substance P was 22.6 ± 3.3%, 12.8 ± 1.4%, and 20.4 ± 3.2% in macroscopic healthy LAD, LAD with atheromatous plaque, and ITA, respectively. Average photorelaxation induced by LLLI was 16.5 ± 2.0%, 1.9 ± 1.7%, and 6.8 ± 4.7%, accordingly. Vasodilatatory responses induced either by substance P or administration of LLLI were significantly decreased in LAD with atheromatous plaque (P < 0.0001). Vasospasms of ITA segments occurring during experiments could be abandoned when LLLI was administered.

Conclusion

Macroscopic healthy LAD exposed to LLLI revealed significant photorelaxation. With the administration of LLLI, 73% of the maximal obtainable effect by an endothelium‐dependent vasodilator could be reached. Furthermore, LLLI has the potential to overcome vasospasms of ITA. Lasers Surg. Med. 44: 705–711, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Cellular Uptake of Covalent Poly(allylamine hydrochloride) Microcapsules and Its Influences on Cell Functions
Authors: Wang Bing , Zhang Yuying , Mao Zhengwei , Gao Changyou
Published: September 2012

The mechanism of the cellular uptake of polyelectrolyte microcapsules and its influences on the functions and toxicity of human SMCs are explored. The covalently assembled poly(allylamine hydrochloride)/glutaraldehyde microcapsules are easily ingested by SMCs mainly through macropinosis and caveolae‐mediated endocytosis pathways. The capsules mainly disperse in cytoplasm without colocalization in early endosomes and cell nucleus. The results of gene chips reveal substantial and profound alternation of cell phenotypes and functions. Uptake of the microcapsules cause a slight decrease of cell viability, but leads to significant changes in cytoskeleton organization, cell cycle, as well as cell adhesion and migration ability.

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Conjugated Polymer with On‐Chain Pt(II) Complex for Resistive Random‐Access Memory Device
Authors: Lin Wenpeng , Sun Huibin , Liu Shujuan , Yang Huiran , Ye Shanghui , Xu Wenjuan , Zhao Qiang , Liu Xiangmei , Huang Wei
Published: September 2012

A novel conjugated polymer, containing carbazole which acted as an electron‐donor moiety, and a Pt(II) complex which acted as an electron‐acceptor moiety, was synthesized and characterized. Electrical characterizations for the sandwiched polymer memory device (ITO/polymer/Al) indicate that the polymer possesses electrical bistability and the device exhibits resistive random‐access memory. The memory mechanism has been investigated through theoretical calculations and attributed to the formation and dissociation of a charge‐transfer state under the applied voltage. The device exhibits excellent memory performances, such as low threshold voltage, high ON/OFF current ratio, and good stability.
Cyclometallated Pt(II) Complexes in Visible‐Light Photoredox Catalysis: New Polymerization Initiating Systems
Authors: Tehfe Mohamad‐Ali , Ma Lihua , Graff Bernadette , Morlet‐Savary Fabrice , Fouassier Jean‐Pierre , Zhao Jianzhang , Lalevée Jacques
Published: September 2012

A household halogen lamp is used to promote the ring‐opening photopolymerization of epoxides in the presence of coumarin moiety containing Pt(II) complex/silane/iodonium salt combinations (epoxide/acrylate interpenetrated polymer networks can also be synthesized). Excellent polymerization profiles are obtained (conversions >70%) under this selected very soft irradiation. These Pt(II) complexes behave as photocatalysts in an oxidative cycle. A photoluminescent polymer can be in situ synthesized thanks to the luminescence properties of these complexes. The mechanisms are investigated by ESR, laser flash photolysis, and luminescence experiments.
Superplasticity and microstructural evolution in aluminium alloys
Authors: Sotoudeh K. , Ridley N. , Humphreys F. J. , Bate P. S.
Published: September 2012

The fine‐grained microstructure required for superplasticity in commercial aluminium alloys is developed in one of two ways. In alloys such as AA5083 Al‐Mg‐Mn and AA7475 Al‐Zn‐Mg‐Cr, static recrystallisation produces an equiaxed microstructure prior to superplastic forming. In alloys such as AA2004 Al‐Cu‐Zr (SUPRAL) and AA8090 Al‐Li‐Mg‐Cu‐Zr, rolling and annealing prior to forming gives a recovered, ‘banded’ microstructure in which the subgrains evolve into grains defined by high angle boundaries during superplastic deformation. That banding‐ in terms of grain orientations‐ persists to much higher strains than would be expected if significant relative grain translation were occurring, and is not consistent with the widely accepted view that grain boundary sliding is the primary deformation mechanism during superplastic flow. To investigate this apparent anomaly further, work on statically recrystallised AA5083 was carried out. Examination of micro‐grid lines on sheet tensile specimens showed that intragranular slip made an insignificant contribution to superplastic flow. Examination of boundary offsets reinforced the view from work on Al‐Cu‐Zr and AA8090 that relative grain translation does not occur to any significant extent. The absence of significant intragranular slip and relative grain translation leads to the conclusion that diffusion creep is making a major contribution to the superplastic deformation.
Thermal behaviour modelling of superplastic forming tools
Authors: Velay V. , Cutard T. , Guegan N.
Published: September 2012

High‐temperature operational conditions of super plastic forming (SPF) tools induce very complex thermo‐mechanical loadings responsible to their failure. Various materials can be used to manufacture forming tools: ceramic, refractory castable or heat resistant steel. In this paper, an experimental and numerical analysis is performed in order to characterise the environmental loadings undergone by the tool whatever the considered material. This investigation allows to lead a thermal calculation. It is a preliminary and essential stage to perform the complete thermo‐mechanical calculation in order to assess accurate stress levels, or plastic strain occurring during the forming process.
Seasonal variability of prevalence and occurrence of multiple infections shape the population structure of Crithidia bombi, an intestinal parasite of bumblebees (Bombus spp.)
Authors: Popp Mario , Erler Silvio , Lattorff H. Michael G.
Published: September 2012

Ergonomic growth phases of annual social insect societies strongly influence horizontally transmitted parasites. Herein, we focused on the impact of temporal changes in host demography on the population structure of a horizontally transmitted parasite. Seasonal fluctuations in prevalence and the occurrence of multiple infections of the gut parasite Crithidia bombi were analyzed in repeatedly sampled populations of two common bumblebee (Bombus spp.) species. Prevalence of C. bombi was greatest in the middle of the foraging season and coincided with the maximal occurrence of multiple infections. Both decline later in the season. The genetic structure of the parasite population also showed strong seasonal fluctuations with a drastic decline in effective population size and an increase in linkage disequilibrium when infection rates were highest. These effects are mainly attributable to significant changes in parasite allele frequencies leading to selection of specific alleles and increasing the frequency of homozygote genotypes in the middle of the season. Within host, competition between parasite genotypes might explain the observed pattern leading to selection of these alleles, and thus a boost of homozygote genotypes in the middle of the season. Toward the end of the season, selection appears to relax and we observed a recovery in linkage equilibrium, as well as an increase in effective population size. This might be explained by genetic exchange in these trypanosomes in natural populations.
Huntington's disease: How intermediate are intermediate repeat lengths?
Authors: Squitieri Ferdinando , Jankovic Joseph
Published: September 2012

Background: Huntington's disease (HD) is a devastating heredoneurodegenerative disorder associated with a wide variety of neurological and psychiatric symptoms caused by an expanded CAG repeat in the HTT gene. The expansion mutation in HTT is dominantly transmitted and codes for a protein named huntingtin (htt).

Hypothesis: One hypothesis, according to a multistep mechanism, is that the intergenerational transmission of the normal repeat size causes small, progressive CAG stretch elongations in the general population from one generation to another, until a critical pathological CAG repeat threshold is reached. Mutations may originate in the offspring from paternally transmitted CAG repeats, falling within an intermediate alleles (IA) range of 27 to 35 in repeat length.

Conclusions: There has been emerging evidence that some individuals with IAs might develop an HD phenotype. This presents a challenge for genetic counseling, because these individuals are often reassured that they are “disease free.” However, there are many unanswered questions related to the role of IAs in the development of the HD phenotype and in the pathogenesis of HD. © 2012 Movement Disorder Society © 2012 Movement Disorder Society
Accelerated diffusion spectrum imaging with compressed sensing using adaptive dictionaries
Authors: Bilgic Berkin , Setsompop Kawin , Cohen‐Adad Julien , Yendiki Anastasia , Wald Lawrence L. , Adalsteinsson Elfar
Published: September 2012

Diffusion spectrum imaging offers detailed information on complex distributions of intravoxel fiber orientations at the expense of extremely long imaging times (∼1 h). Recent work by Menzel et al. demonstrated successful recovery of diffusion probability density functions from sub‐Nyquist sampled q‐space by imposing sparsity constraints on the probability density functions under wavelet and total variation transforms. As the performance of compressed sensing reconstruction depends strongly on the level of sparsity in the selected transform space, a dictionary specifically tailored for diffusion probability density functions can yield higher fidelity results. To our knowledge, this work is the first application of adaptive dictionaries in diffusion spectrum imaging, whereby we reduce the scan time of whole brain diffusion spectrum imaging acquisition from 50 to 17 min while retaining high image quality. In vivo experiments were conducted with the 3T Connectome MRI. The root‐mean‐square error of the reconstructed “missing” diffusion images were calculated by comparing them to a gold standard dataset (obtained from acquiring 10 averages of diffusion images in these missing directions). The root‐mean‐square error from the proposed reconstruction method is up to two times lower than that of Menzel et al.'s method and is actually comparable to that of the fully‐sampled 50 minute scan. Comparison of tractography solutions in 18 major white‐matter pathways also indicated good agreement between the fully‐sampled and 3‐fold accelerated reconstructions. Further, we demonstrate that a dictionary trained using probability density functions from a single slice of a particular subject generalizes well to other slices from the same subject, as well as to slices from other subjects. Magn Reson Med, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Diffusion weighted vertical gradient and spin echo
Authors: Engström Mathias , Bammer Roland , Skare Stefan
Published: September 2012

In this work, diffusion weighting and parallel imaging is combined with a vertical gradient and spin echo data readout. This sequence was implemented and evaluated on healthy volunteers using a 1.5 and a 3 T whole‐body MR system. As the vertical gradient and spin echo trajectory enables a higher k‐space velocity in the phase‐encoding direction than single‐shot echo planar imaging, the geometrical distortions are reduced. When combined with parallel imaging such as generalized autocalibrating partially parallel acquisition, the geometric distortions are reduced even further, while also keeping the minimum echo time reasonably low. However, this combination of a diffusion preparation and multiple refocusing pulses during the vertical gradient and spin echo readout, generally violates the Carr–Purcell–Meiboom–Gill condition, which leads to interferences between echo pathways. To suppress the stimulated echo pathway, refocusing pulses with a sharper slice profiles and an odd/even crusher variation scheme were implemented and evaluated. Being a single‐shot acquisition technique, the reconstructed images are robust to rigid‐body head motion and spatially varying brain motion, both of which are common sources of artifacts in diffusion MRI. Magn Reson Med, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.