bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical modelling of natural rock formations to estimate stability using the example of a sandstone massif in Saxony / Numerische Modellierung natürlicher Felskomplexe zur Abschätzung der Standsicherheit am Beispiel des Wehltumkomplexes in der Sächsischen Schweiz
Authors: Herbst Martin , Konietzky Heinz
Published: August 2012

Statements about stability, weathering behaviour and possible rockfalls affecting a real rock massif were made possible by creating a 3D surface/volume model, using as example the “Großer Wehturm” rock massif, using the high‐resolution laser scanning process together with rock mechanical 3D model calculations. The emphasis of this paper is the mathematical modelling, particularly the generation of the 3D model from the surface point cloud and the simulation possibilities. The numerical calculations are based on the Discrete Element Method, considering the rock matrix and joint or bedding interfaces. The 3D modelling delivers, in addition to answers to questions about the extent and degree of deformations and movement mechanisms, knowledge relevant to the transfer of the procedure to other locations.

Aussagen zu Standsicherheit, Verwitterungsverhalten und möglichen Felsstürzen an konkreten Felsmassiven wurden mittels der Erstellung und Auswertung eines 3D‐Oberflächen‐/Volumenmodells am Beispiel des Felsmassivs “Großer Wehturm” unter Nutzung des hochauflösenden Laserscansverfahrens mit kombinierter felsmechanischer 3D‐Modellberechnungen durchgeführt. Der Schwerpunkt dieser Veröffentlichung liegt auf der Numerik, insbesondere der 3D‐Modellgenerierung aus der Oberflächenpunktwolke und den Simulationsmöglichkeiten. Die numerischen Berechnungen basieren auf der dreidimensionalen Diskreten Elemente Methode unter Berücksichtigung der Gesteinsmatrix und Kluft‐ bzw. Schichtgrenzen. Die 3D‐Modellierung liefert neben Antworten auf Fragen zu Umfang und Ausmaß von Deformationen und Bewegungsmechanismen auch Erfahrungen bzgl. der Übertragung auf andere Standorte.
Dysphonia as an unusual debut of parsonage–Turner syndrome
Authors: Samarà Laura , Valls–Sole Josep , Caballero Miguel
Published: August 2012

Background

Parsonage–Turner syndrome is a rare and painful peripheral neuropathy that usually presents as brachial plexus neuritis and also has other nerve involvement.

Methods and Results

Herein, we report the case of a patient with right recurrent nerve palsy as the first clinically isolated manifestation of underlying Parsonage–Turner syndrome. Idiopathic dysphonia was the only symptom presenting during a week for a patient that later developed a more conventional neurological deficit in her right shoulder.

Conclusions

The case illustrates the need for a careful clinical‐neurologic examination beyond the larynx in patients presenting with idiopathic dysphonia. Parsonage–Turner syndrome should be considered as one of the rare causes in the differential diagnosis of isolated and otherwise unexplained dysphonia. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2013
Correlation between salivary interleukin‐6 levels and early locoregional recurrence in patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma: Preliminary study
Authors: Sato Jun , Ohuchi Manabu , Abe Keigo , Satoh Takehiko , Abe Takahiro , Yamazaki Yutaka , Satoh Akira , Notani Ken‐ichi , Kitagawa Yoshimasa
Published: August 2012

Background

We have demonstrated that salivary interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) concentrations change during the treatment in patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). We sought to elucidate the correlations between salivary IL‐6 concentration and early locoregional recurrence in OSCC.

Methods

Stimulated saliva was collected before and after surgery from 27 consecutive patients with OSCC. Recurrence‐free survival (RFS) curves were plotted using the Kaplan–Meier method.

Results

Of the 27 patients, 11 (41%) were diagnosed with locoregional recurrence within 24 months postsurgery. The median concentrations of IL‐6 presurgery and postsurgery were 2.8 pg/mL and 2.1 pg/mL, respectively. The median postsurgery concentration of IL‐6 was significantly higher in patients with than without locoregional recurrence (p = .02). Multivariate analysis revealed that postsurgery salivary IL‐6 concentration was an independent risk factor for locoregional recurrence (p = .03; risk ratio, 0.14).

Conclusions

Posttreatment concentration of salivary IL‐6 may predict early locoregional recurrence in OSCC. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2012
Estrogen and the male hippocampus: Genetic variation in the aromatase gene predicting serum estrogen is associated with hippocampal gray matter volume in men
Authors: Bayer Janine , Rune Gabriele , Kutsche Kerstin , Schwarze Ulrike , Kalisch Raffael , Büchel Christian , Sommer Tobias
Published: August 2012

The neurosteroid 17‐beta estradiol (E2) plays an important role in neuronal plasticity, neurogenesis and neuroprotection of hippocampal neurons in slice cultures and the female brain. While some effects of E2 on hippocampal neurons observed in females were also seen in the male hippocampus, others seem to be specific to females. The current study aimed to further explore the effect of E2 on the male hippocampus by investigating the relationship between genetic variations in E2 synthesis and hippocampal gray matter (GM) volume. We chose a single nucleotide polymorphism (rs700158, SNP) in the gene CYP19A1 coding for the final enzyme (aromatase) in E2 synthesis. Men homozygous for the A allele of rs700518 have repeatedly been shown to have higher E2 serum levels than male carriers of the G allele. Two independent cohorts of healthy young men were genotyped for rs700518 and voxel‐based morphometry (VBM) was performed on structural magnetic resonance images to determine genotype dependent group differences. Men homozygous for the A allele of rs700518 had greater bilateral posterior hippocampal GM volumes in both cohorts. Thus, the genotype associated with higher E2 serum levels was also associated with greater hippocampal gray matter. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Use of antipsychotic medication and suicidality—the Northern Finland Birth Cohort 1966
Authors: Rissanen Ina , Jääskeläinen Erika , Isohanni Matti , Koponen Hannu , Joukamaa Matti , Alaräisänen Antti , Miettunen Jouko
Published: August 2012

In addition to psychoses, antipsychotic drugs are nowadays also prescribed for other psychiatric disturbances, such as mood disorders. We wanted to find out whether there is any association between the use of antipsychotic drugs and suicidality in cases of psychotic and non‐psychotic disorders.

Our sample was the population‐based Northern Finland 1966 Birth Cohort. Information on the use of prescribed drugs was collected in 1997 from the nationwide medication register and with a postal questionnaire (N = 8218). The presence of suicidal ideation was assessed cross‐sectionally using the Symptom Check List‐25 questionnaire. We studied associations between suicidal ideation, adjusted for symptoms of depression and anxiety, and antipsychotic medication in different diagnostic groups (schizophrenia, other psychosis and no psychosis).

Individuals receiving antipsychotic medication (n = 70, 0.9%) had in general more suicidal ideation regardless of diagnostic group, although the associations diminished when taking other symptoms into account. There were no statistically significant differences between those taking typical and atypical antipsychotics. In the non‐psychotic group, higher antipsychotic doses were associated with more suicidal ideation even when adjusted for symptoms of depression and anxiety (p < 0.05). In the cases of schizophrenia or other forms of psychosis, no such associations were observed.

Our results suggest that one should take suicidal ideation into account when prescribing antipsychotic medication, especially for off‐label use. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Local targets for immune therapy to cancer: Tumor draining lymph nodes and tumor microenvironment
Authors: Fransen Marieke F. , Arens Ramon , Melief Cornelis J.M.
Published: August 2012

In recent years, it has become apparent that immunoregulatory processes influence cancer development. The key players in tumor progression are mainly present in the microenvironment of the tumor and the draining lymph nodes. Interventions aimed at shifting tumor‐promoting actions toward effective tumor‐eradicating immunity are thus foremost required locally. As immune‐modulating therapy has been shown to cause many adverse side effects when administered systemically, we strongly advocate the further development of local treatment for cancer immunotherapy.
Elevated levels of survivin and livin mRNA in bronchial aspirates as markers to support the diagnosis of lung cancer
Authors: Li Jian , Chen Ping , Li Xiao‐Qin , Bao Qian‐Lei , Dai Chun‐Hua , Ge Li‐Ping
Published: August 2012

Survivin and livin are two members of the inhibitor of apoptosis gene family, which have been found to be expressed in many human cancer tissues. But their expression could not be detected in normal adult tissue. The aim of our study was to evaluate the diagnostic role of survivin and livin mRNA expression in the bronchial aspirates of patients with lung cancer. Seventy lung cancer patients and 26 benign lung disease patients participated in our study. The bronchial aspirates (bronchial wash or bronchoalveolar lavage fluids) obtained during bronchoscopy. Survivin and livin mRNA were determined by reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to analyze diagnostic performance of the two markers. Survivin and livin mRNA levels in patients with lung cancer were significantly higher than in those with benign lung disease (p < 0.001 and p = 0.001, respectively). In lung cancer patients, specimens taken from cancerous bronchi had significantly higher levels of survivin and livin mRNA than specimens from the mirror side bronchi in the same patients (p < 0.001 and p = 0.001, respectively). The best cutoff values of survivin and livin were selected according to ROC curves. The survivin mRNA expression in bronchial aspirates had sensitivity and specificity of 83 and 96% for diagnosis of lung cancer. Livin mRNA detection in bronchial aspirates showed 63% sensitivity and 92% specificity. Our findings suggest that survivin and livin mRNA detection in bronchial aspirates may be valuable diagnostic marker for the early diagnosis of lung cancer.
Tufa Barriers from a Caddisfly's Point of View: Streams or Lake Outlets?
Authors: Šemnički Petra , Previšić Ana , Ivković Marija , Čmrlec Kristina , Mihaljević Zlatko
Published: August 2012

The caddisfly community composition in different microhabitats at tufa barriers was studied in the Plitvice Lakes NP, Croatia. Three tufa barriers were investigated and six emergence traps were installed at each site covering various microhabitats. Sampling was conducted monthly during the year 2008. Tufa barriers are lake outlet habitats, but they feature a variety of microhabitats similar to streams, which is reflected in the composition of caddisfly communities regarding longitudinal distribution preferences. The caddisfly communities at all three sites were dominated by species typical for the rhithral zone, but there was a shift in species composition along a longitudinal gradient, from the epirhithral to the metarhithral zone. Analysis of functional feeding guilds showed considerable differences between the caddisfly community at the Labudovac barrier and both downstream barriers, shifting from one with a quite diverse composition, to one completely dominated by passive filter‐feeders. Passive filter feeders were not represented by the same taxa at up‐ and downstream barriers (i.e., by Hydropsyche species and Wormaldia species, at the Labudovac barrier and at both downstream barriers, respectively). Due to high complexity and habitat diversity, the highest diversity and equitability of caddisfly communities were recorded at microhabitats with particulate tufa and medium current velocity (10–20 cm/s). The lowest diversity and species richness were recorded for silt with low current velocity (0–10 cm/s). Abundance of caddisflies was positively correlated with current velocity due to a very high proportion of rheophilic passive filter feeders in the communities. However, community composition and structure is only to some degree influenced by microhabitat characteristics, but rather by their general position within the barrage‐lake system, i.e., longitudinal distribution and thereby availability of different food resources. (© 2012 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Noise suppressed, multifocus image fusion for enhanced intraoperative navigation
Authors: Feruglio Paolo Fumene , Vinegoni Claudio , Fexon Lioubov , Thurber Greg , Sbarbati Andrea , Weissleder Ralph
Published: August 2012

Current intraoperative imaging systems are typically not able to provide ‘sharp’ images over entire large areas or entire organs. Distinct structures such as tissue margins or groups of malignant cells are therefore often difficult to detect, especially under low signal‐to‐noise‐ratio conditions. In this report, we introduce a noise suppressed multifocus image fusion algorithm, that provides detailed reconstructions even when images are acquired under sub‐optimal conditions, such is the case for real time fluorescence intraoperative surgery. The algorithm makes use of the Anscombe transform combined with a multi‐level stationary wavelet transform with individual threshold‐based shrinkage. While the imaging system is integrated with a respiratory monitor triggering system, it can be easily adapted to any commercial imaging system. The developed algorithm is made available as a plugin for Osirix. (© 2013 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Bacterial infection of macrophages induces decrease in refractive index
Authors: Ekpenyong Andrew E. , Man Si Ming , Achouri Sarra , Bryant Clare E. , Guck Jochen , Chalut Kevin J.
Published: August 2012

Infection of cells by pathogens leads to both biochemical and structural modifications of the host cell. To study the structural modifications in a label‐free manner, we use digital holographic microscopy, DHM, to obtain the integral refractive index distribution of cells. Primary murine bone marrow derived macrophages (BMDM) infected with Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium, undergo highly significant reduction in refractive index, RI, compared to uninfected cells. Infected BMDM cells from genetically modified mice lacking an inflammatory protein that causes cell death, caspase 1, also exhibit similar decrease in RI. These data suggest that any reduction in RI of Salmonella ‐infected BMDMs is pathogen induced and independent of caspase 1‐induced inflammation or cell death. This finding suggests DHM may be useful for general real time monitoring of host cell interactions with infectious pathogens. (© 2013 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Recent advances in proteomic technologies applied to cardiovascular disease
Authors: Napoli Claudio , Zullo Alberto , Picascia Antonietta , Infante Teresa , Mancini Francesco Paolo
Published: August 2012

In recent years, the diagnosis of cardiovascular disease (CVD) has increased its potential, also thanks to mass spectrometry (MS) proteomics. Modern MS proteomics tools permit analyzing a variety of biological samples, ranging from single cells to tissues and body fluids, like plasma and urine. This approach enhances the search for informative biomarkers in biological samples from apparently healthy individuals or patients, thus allowing an earlier and more precise diagnosis and a deeper comprehension of pathogenesis, development and outcome of CVD to further reduce the enormous burden of this disease on public health. In fact, many differences in protein expression between CVD‐affected and healthy subjects have been detected, but only a few of them have been useful to establish clinical biomarkers because they did not pass the verification and validation tests. For a concrete clinical support of MS proteomics to CVD, it is, therefore, necessary to: ameliorate the resolution, sensitivity, specificity, throughput, precision, and accuracy of MS platform components; standardize procedures for sample collection, preparation, and analysis; lower the costs of the analyses; reduce the time of biomarker verification and validation. At the same time, it will be fundamental, for the future perspectives of proteomics in clinical trials, to define the normal protein maps and the global patterns of normal protein levels, as well as those specific for the different expressions of CVD. J. Cell. Biochem. 114: 7–20, 2012. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Atmospheric pressure changes in the Arctic from 1801 to 1920
Authors: Przybylak Rajmund , Wyszyński Przemysław , Vízi Zsuzsanna , Jankowska Joanna
Published: August 2012

In this article, the results of an investigation into the atmospheric pressure conditions in the Arctic in the period from 1801 to 1920 are presented. For this period, which can be described as ‘early instrumental’, limited meteorological data exist from a network of regular stations. As a result, in order to get at least a rough idea of pressure conditions in the Arctic in the study period, data from different land and marine expeditions were collected. A total of 94 pressure series of monthly means have been gathered, the duration of which is usually less than 2 years. While the area and time periods covered by the data are variable, it is still possible to describe the general character of the pressure conditions. The results show that the areally averaged Arctic pressure in the early instrumental period (1861–1920) was 0.8 hPa lower than today (1961–1990). Lower values of atmospheric pressure were also observed in all study regions, excluding the Atlantic. The greatest negative differences (−2.1 hPa) have been found for the Canadian Arctic. The greatest changes between the historical and present times were noted in all winter months and in winter as a whole (−1.9 hPa), while in summer and autumn they were very small and their average differences came to − 0.1 and − 0.2 hPa, respectively. Comparison of historical and contemporary annual courses of atmospheric pressure in the whole of the Arctic and in its particular regions reveals general consonance. There is evidence to show that changes in Arctic atmospheric pressure during the whole study period were insignificant. Atmospheric pressure in the first International Polar Year (IPY) period (September 1882 to July 1883) was, on average, 1.4 hPa higher than in modern period (1961–1990). The greatest positive seasonal differences between historical and contemporary pressure values occurred in autumn (2.6 hPa), while the lowest were in winter (only 0.2 hPa). Spatial patterns of average annual and seasonal atmospheric pressure in the Arctic were very similar to present day ones. The pressure differences calculated between historical and modern mean monthly values show that almost all of them lie within one standard deviation from present long‐term mean (1961–1990). Thus, this means that the atmospheric pressure in the early instrumental period was not significantly different to that of the present day. Recent, commonly used gridded datasets of the sea level atmospheric pressure (HadSLP2 and the 20th Century Reanalysis Project) reveal quite a large positive bias in the period 1850–1920 in comparison to the real data from the instrumental observations. Copyright © 2012 Royal Meteorological Society
Acute and late changes in intraarticular cytokine levels following anterior cruciate ligament injury
Authors: Bigoni Marco , Sacerdote Paola , Turati Marco , Franchi Silvia , Gandolla Marta , Gaddi Diego , Moretti Sarah , Munegato Daniele , Augusti Carlo A. , Bresciani Elena , Omeljaniuk Robert J. , Locatelli Vittorio , Torsello Antonio
Published: August 2012

Surgical reconstruction of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) does not necessarily decrease the risk of developing osteoarthritis (OA). The inflammatory response and relative changes in pro‐ and anti‐inflammatory cytokines could participate in triggering the development of OA. To test this hypothesis we measured the concentrations of IL‐1β, IL‐1ra, IL‐6, IL‐8, IL‐10, and TNF‐α at different times after ACL rupture. The sample population consisted of 48 patients with ACL tear which were assigned to different groups according to the time elapsed from the injury: 22 acute (A), 7 early sub‐acute (ESA), 11 late sub‐acute (LSA), and 8 chronic (C). In group A, there were high levels of IL‐1β, IL‐6, and IL‐8, whereas levels of IL‐1ra and TNF‐α were significantly lower than usually reported. IL‐1β and IL‐8 concentrations returned with time to normal levels in the ESA group. Interestingly, IL‐1ra levels remained always significantly lower than normally reported levels, and TNF‐α levels did not increase after trauma. Our data show increased level of pro‐inflammatory cytokines (IL‐6 and IL‐8) in the acute phase of inflammation which could be responsible for triggering cartilage catabolism and suggest that prompt neutralization of IL‐6 and IL‐8 accumulations in synovial fluid could help prevent development of OA in ACL‐injured knees. © 2012 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 31: 315–321, 2013
Hyperbaric oxygen treatment suppresses MAPK signaling and mitochondrial apoptotic pathway in degenerated human intervertebral disc cells
Authors: Niu Chi‐Chien , Lin Song‐Shu , Yuan Li‐Jen , Chen Lih‐Huei , Wang I‐Chun , Tsai Tsung‐Ting , Lai Po‐Liang , Chen Wen‐Jer
Published: August 2012

Nucleus pulposus cells (NPCs) from degenerating discs produce catabolic and inflammatory factors, including interleukin (IL)‐1 and nitric oxide (NO). Enhanced production of NO has been implicated in the apoptosis of degenerating disc cells. This study evaluates the effects of hyperbaric oxygen (HBO) on degenerated human NPCs. All hyperoxic cells were exposed to 100% O2 at 2.5 atmospheres absolute (ATA). Phosphorylation of extracellular signal‐regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2), c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase (JNK), and p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) in NPCs was detected using the phosphor‐kinase array kit. RNA was isolated for real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis of aggrecan and type II collagen gene expression. The levels of IL‐1β and NO were quantified by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). To identify the HBO‐induced anti‐apoptotic pathways, expression of Bcl‐2 and Bax proteins as well as activation of cysteine‐containing aspartate‐specific proteases (caspases) 3, 8, and 9 was evaluated using Western blotting after HBO treatment. Our data showed that HBO treatment decreased the expression of IL‐1β, suppressed phosphorylation of ERK1/2, JNK, and p38 MAPK, decreased synthesis of NO, and increased the gene expression of aggrecan and type II collagen in NPCs as compared with the atmospheric treatment. HBO up‐regulated the ratio of Bcl‐2 to Bax expression and reduced the activity of caspases 9 and 3 but not of caspase 8, indicating a selective effect over the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway in degenerated NPCs. These results support our hypothesis that HBO treatment suppresses MAPK signaling and mitochondrial apoptotic pathway in degenerated human intervertebral disc cells. © 2012 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 31: 204–209, 2013
Suitability of some selected maize hybrids from Serbia for the production of bioethanol and dried distillers' grains with solubles
Authors: Semenčenko Valentina V , Mojović Ljiljana V , Đukić‐Vuković Aleksandra P , Radosavljević Milica M , Terzić Dušanka R , Milašinović Šeremešić Marija S
Published: August 2012

BACKGROUND: Bioethanol is mostly produced from starchy parts of the corn grain kernel leaving significant amounts of valuable by‐products such as dried distillers' grains with solubles (DDGS) which can be used as a substitute for traditional feedstuff. The suitability of six maize hybrids from Serbia was investigated for bioethanol and DDGS production. The correlation between physical and chemical characteristics of the grain, bioethanol yield and quality of the corresponding DDGS was assessed.

RESULTS: All hybrids had very different chemical composition and physical characteristics which could allow various applications. The highest bioethanol yield (94.5% of theoretical) and volumetric productivity (2.01 g l−1 h−1) were obtained with hybrid ZP 434 and the lowest with ZP 611k. Regarding chemical composition, all DDGS samples manifested good properties as feed components. Their protein content was higher compared to the kernel. In addition, the samples showed high digestibility and high mineral content, especially of calcium and phosphorus.

CONCLUSION: A hybrid ZP 434 was selected as the most promising bioethanol producer. This property is attributed to the highest level of soft endosperm which is more susceptible to starch‐hydrolysing enzymes. A high yield potential per hectare makes it the best candidate for commercial bioethanol production. © 2012 Society of Chemical Industry
Benefit of portal or superior mesenteric vein resection with adjuvant chemotherapy for patients with pancreatic head carcinoma
Authors: Murakami Yoshiaki , Uemura Kenichiro , Sudo Takeshi , Hashimoto Yasushi , Nakashima Akira , Kondo Naru , Nakagawa Naoya , Sueda Taijiro
Published: August 2012

Background and Objectives

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of portal or superior mesenteric vein (PV/SMV) resection for patients with pancreatic carcinoma who underwent pancreatoduodenectomy.

Methods

Medical records of 125 patients with pancreatic head carcinoma who underwent pancreatoduodenectomy were reviewed retrospectively. Sixty‐one patients underwent PV/SMV resection and 64 patients did not. Clinicopathological factors were compared between the two groups and the prognostic impact of PV/SMV resection was evaluated using univariate and multivariate survival analysis.

Results

The frequency of mortality and morbidity did not differ between the two groups. Univariate analysis revealed that a significant difference in overall survival was found between patients who did and did not undergo PV/SMV resection (P = 0.046) as well as between patients with and without pathological PV/SMV invasion (P = 0.012). However, PV/SMV resection and pathological PV/SMV invasion were not independent prognostic factors by multivariate survival analysis. Among patients with PV/SMV resection, the use of adjuvant chemotherapy was the only independent prognostic factor of overall survival (P = 0.003).

Conclusions

Resection of the PV/SMV with adjuvant chemotherapy may provide an acceptable survival benefit to patients with pancreatic head carcinoma, which involves the PV/SMV without additional mortality and morbidity. J. Surg. Oncol. 2013;107:414–421. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Overexpression of MMSET in endometrial cancer: A clinicopathologic study
Authors: Xiao Min , Yang Shanshan , Chen Jie , Ning Xiaoming , Guo Liyuan , Huang Kejin , Sui Lihua
Published: August 2012

Background and Objectives

Endometrial cancer is a common gynecologic malignancy. It has been reported that overexpression of multiple myeloma SET (MMSET) promoted cellular adhesion, clonogenic growth, and tumorigenicity in other carcinomas. Therefore, the authors expected to investigate whether MMSET overexpression is an independent prognostic marker in endometrial cancer.

Methods

Immunohistochemistry was performed to examine the expression of MMSET in 161 endometrial cancer specimens and 62 normal endometrium specimens. The correlation of MMSET expression with clinicopathological parameters was assessed using χ2 analysis. Patients' survival was analyzed using the Kaplan–Meier and log‐rank tests. Cox regression was used for the multivariate analysis of prognostic factors.

Results

MMSET immunoreactivity was overexpressed in endometrial cancer compared with normal endometrium (P < 0.001). Moreover, MMSET expression was correlated with FIGO stage, histological grade, depth of myometrial invasion, lymph node metastasis, and vascular/lymphatic invasion. Furthermore, Patients with positive MMSET expression had significantly poorer overall survival and disease‐free survival compared with patients with negative expression of MMSET (both P < 0.001, log‐rank test). Multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed that positive MMSET expression was an independent prognostic factor for both OS and DFS of patients with endometrial cancer (P = 0.008 and P = 0.048, respectively).

Conclusions

Overexpression of MMSET may contribute to the progression of endometrial cancer and also may serve as a new biomarker to predict the prognosis of endometrial cancer. J. Surg. Oncol. 2013;107:428–432. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Indicators of symptom improvement and survival in inpatients with advanced cancer undergoing palliative surgical consultation
Authors: Badgwell Brian D. , Aloia Thomas A. , Garrett John , Chedister Gabe , Miner Tom , Krouse Robert
Published: August 2012

Background

The purpose of this study was to prospectively identify the presentation, treatment, and outcomes of inpatients with advanced malignancy undergoing palliative surgical consultation.

Methods

Inpatients undergoing palliative surgical consultation were prospectively identified from November 2008 to May 2011. Medical records were retrospectively reviewed to obtain clinical data and outcome.

Results

Of 202 consultations, the diagnoses were wound problems (N = 39, 19%), bowel obstruction (N = 75, 37%), intra‐abdominal inflammatory conditions (N = 36, 18%), abdominal pain of unclear etiology (N = 13, 6%), gastrointestinal hemorrhage (N = 15, 7%), malnutrition/feeding tube request (N = 14, 7%), and biliary obstruction (N = 10, 5%). Management included non‐operative/non‐procedural treatment in 81 (40%), procedures in 35 (17%), and surgery in 86 (43%). Patients treated with non‐operative/non‐procedural, procedural, and surgical treatment demonstrated symptom improvement rates of 60% (49/81), 69% (24/35), and 78% (67/86), respectively. Surgical treatment was associated with symptom improvement (OR 2.3 [95% CI 1.2–4.5]) compared to non‐operative/non‐procedural management. Symptom improvement was associated with improved survival (HR 0.27 [95% CI 0.19–0.38]) on multivariate analysis.

Conclusions

Symptom improvement was obtained in the majority of patients regardless of treatment strategy. Although patients selected for surgery demonstrated an association with symptom improvement, future prospective studies are needed to determine additional variables important in treatment selection. J. Surg. Oncol. 2013;107:367–371. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Burden of de novo malignancy in the liver transplant recipient
Authors: Chandok Natasha , Watt Kymberly D.
Published: August 2012

Recipients of liver transplantation (LT) have a higher overall risk (2-3 times on average) of developing de novo malignancies than the general population, with standardized incidence ratios ranging from 1.0 for breast and prostate cancers to 3-4 for colon cancer and up to 12 for esophageal and oropharyngeal cancers. Aside from immunosuppression, other identified risk factors for de novo malignancies include the patient's age, a history of alcoholic liver disease or primary sclerosing cholangitis, smoking, and viral infections with oncogenic potential. Despite outcome studies showing that de novo malignancies are major causes of mortality and morbidity after LT, there are no guidelines for cancer surveillance protocols or immunosuppression protocols to lower the incidence of de novo cancers. Patient education, particularly for smoking cessation and excess sun avoidance, and regular clinical follow-up remain the standard of care. Further research in epidemiology, risk factors, and the effectiveness of screening and management protocols is needed to develop evidence-based guidelines for the prevention and treatment of de novo malignancies. Liver Transpl, 2012. © 2012 AASLD.
Recent Insights Into the Biomedical Applications of Shape‐memory Polymers
Authors: Serrano Maria C. , Ameer Guillermo A.
Published: August 2012

Shape‐memory polymers (SMP) are versatile stimuli‐responsive materials that can switch, upon stimulation, from a temporary to a permanent shape. This advanced functionality makes SMP suitable and promising materials for diverse technological applications, including the fabrication of smart biomedical devices. In this paper, advances in the design of SMP are discussed, with emphasis on materials investigated for medical applications. Future directions necessary to bring SMP closer to their clinical application are also highlighted.

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Managerial Motives in Mergers: Propensity Score Matching Approach
Authors: Svetina Marko
Published: August 2012

Recent research finds that managers of public firms overpay for acquisitions relative to private equity acquirers and that the public acquirer ulterior motives explain the apparent overpayment. I find that, in sharp contrast to the existing literature, the difference in what public firm managers are willing to pay for their targets can be attributed to efficiency motives (using the propensity score matching to remove a significant amount of bias from the sample allows for cleaner comparisons). Additional support for these results is found by examining transactions in which both public and private equity firms are bidding on the same target. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Calibration of unified Parkinson's disease rating scale scores to Movement Disorder Society‐unified Parkinson's disease rating scale scores
Authors: Goetz Christopher G. , Stebbins Glenn T. , Tilley Barbara C.
Published: August 2012

The aim of this study was to develop formulas to convert the UPDRS to Movement Disorder Society (MDS)‐UPDRS scores. The MDS‐UPDRS is a revision of the UPDRS with sound clinimetric properties. Reliable formulas to recalculate UPDRS scores into MDS‐UPDRS equivalents are pivotal to the practical transition and definitive adoption of the MDS‐UPDRS. UPDRS and MDS‐UPDRS scores were collected on 875 PD patients. A developmental sample was used to regress UPDRS scores on corresponding MDS‐UPDRS scores based on three H & Y groupings (I/II, III, and IV/V). Regression weighting factors and intercept terms provided formulas for UPDRS conversions to be tested in a validation sample. Concordance between the true MDS‐UPDRS Part scores and those derived from the formulas was compared using Bland‐Altman's plots and Lin's concordance coefficient (LCC). Significant concordance between UPDRS‐estimated MDS‐UPDRS scores was achieved for Parts II (Motor Experiences of Daily Living) (LCC = 0.93) and III (Motor Examination) (LCC = 0.97). The formulas resulted in mean differences between the true MDS‐UPDRS and estimated MDS‐UPDRS scores of less than 1 point for both Parts II and III. Concordance was not achieved for Parts I and IV (Non‐motor Experiences of Daily Living and Complications of Therapy). Formulas allow archival UPDRS Parts II and III individual patient data to be accurately transferred to MDS‐UPDRS scores. Because Part I collects data on much more extensive information than the UPDRS, and because Part IV is structured differently in the two versions, old ratings for these parts cannot be converted. © 2012 Movement Disorder Society
Graft Copolymerization of Styrene and Acrylonitrile in the Presence of Poly(propylene glycol): Modeling and Simulation of Semi‐Batch and Continuous Processes
Authors: Li Li , Wu Linbo , Bu Zhiyang , Gong Cheng , Li Bo‐Geng , Hungenberg Klaus‐Dieter
Published: August 2012

An existing kinetic model for graft free‐radical copolymerization of styrene (St) and acrylonitrile (AN) in the presence of poly(propylene glycol) is extended to describe the semi‐batch process and to simulate the continuous process. A good predictive ability of the model for the semi‐batch process is demonstrated by comparing with experimental data, except for$\overline {M} _{{\rm w}} $and polydispersity index at St/AN = 60/40 wt% in the feed. The continuous process is simulated under various reaction conditions. The solid content increases sharply with increasing monomer concentration. With decreasing St/AN weight ratio, the graft efficieny increases sharply and$\overline {M} _{{\rm w}} $decreases.

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Highly accelerated real‐time cardiac cine MRI using k–t SPARSE‐SENSE
Authors: Feng Li , Srichai Monvadi B. , Lim Ruth P. , Harrison Alexis , King Wilson , Adluru Ganesh , Dibella Edward V. R. , Sodickson Daniel K. , Otazo Ricardo , Kim Daniel
Published: August 2012

For patients with impaired breath‐hold capacity and/or arrhythmias, real‐time cine MRI may be more clinically useful than breath‐hold cine MRI. However, commercially available real‐time cine MRI methods using parallel imaging typically yield relatively poor spatio‐temporal resolution due to their low image acquisition speed. We sought to achieve relatively high spatial resolution (∼2.5 × 2.5 mm2) and temporal resolution (∼40 ms), to produce high‐quality real‐time cine MR images that could be applied clinically for wall motion assessment and measurement of left ventricular function. In this work, we present an eightfold accelerated real‐time cardiac cine MRI pulse sequence using a combination of compressed sensing and parallel imaging (k‐t SPARSE‐SENSE). Compared with reference, breath‐hold cine MRI, our eightfold accelerated real‐time cine MRI produced significantly worse qualitative grades (1–5 scale), but its image quality and temporal fidelity scores were above 3.0 (adequate) and artifacts and noise scores were below 3.0 (moderate), suggesting that acceptable diagnostic image quality can be achieved. Additionally, both eightfold accelerated real‐time cine and breath‐hold cine MRI yielded comparable left ventricular function measurements, with coefficient of variation <10% for left ventricular volumes. Our proposed eightfold accelerated real‐time cine MRI with k–t SPARSE‐SENSE is a promising modality for rapid imaging of myocardial function. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Hierarchical IDEAL: Fast, robust, and multiresolution separation of multiple chemical species from multiple echo times
Authors: Tsao Jeffrey , Jiang Yun
Published: August 2012

We describe a generalized version of hierarchical IDEAL that can flexibly handle arbitrary chemical species at arbitrary echo times. The proposed work is fast and robust, and it has three key features: (1) multiresolution approach, which allows the method to handle images with disjoint regions, makes it less susceptible to local optima, and reduces the ambiguity of the separation; (2) direct phase estimation, which bypasses the phase wrapping issue, and (3) efficient algebraic formulation, which enables fast calculation and insensitivity to spatially varying phase across the image, from sources such as partial echo acquisition, receiver coils, motion, and flow. Representative results at 1.5 T and 3 T are presented from human ankle, wrist, and a water/oil/silicone phantom. Magn Reson Med, 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Electrophysiology of neuromuscular disorders in critical illness
Authors: Lacomis David
Published: August 2012

Introduction

Neuromuscular disorders, predominantly critical illness myopathy (CIM) and critical illness polyneuropathy (CIP) occur in approximately one‐third of patients in intensive care units. The aim of this study was to review the important role of electrophysiology in this setting.

Results

In CIM, sarcolemmal inexcitability causes low amplitude compound muscle action potentials (CMAPs) that may have prolonged durations. Needle electrode examination usually reveals early recruitment of short duration motor unit potentials, often with fibrillation potentials. In CIP, the findings are usually those of a generalized axonal sensorimotor polyneuropathy. Direct muscle stimulation aids in differentiating CIP and CIM and in identifying mixed disorders along with other electrodiagnostic and histopathologic studies. Identifying evolving reductions in fibular CMAP amplitudes in intensive care unit (ICU) patients predicts development of neuromuscular weakness.

Conclusions

Knowledge of the various neuromuscular disorders in critically ill patients, their risk factors, and associated electrodiagnostic findings can lead to development of a rational approach to diagnosis of the cause of neuromuscular weakness in ICU patients. Muscle Nerve 47: 452–463, 2013
Speed of sound and ballistic resistance of nanocomposite films
Authors: Termonia Yves
Published: August 2012

We present a numerical model for the factors controlling the velocity of sound and ballistic performance of nanocomposite polymer films. In our approach, the composite material is represented by a three‐dimensional lattice of bonds having different mass and elastic constants for the inclusion and for the matrix. The mechanics of impact wave propagation is formulated in terms of impulse‐momentum balance equations which are solved at each lattice site using a finite difference technique. Our study indicates that the efficiency of load transfer across a composite film is negatively impacted by the mismatch in impedance between matrix and inclusions. We also find that, among all inclusions, platelets with high aspect ratio are the most promising. They clearly lead to a faster sound velocity, wider propagation of the impact wave and higher critical perforation velocity V50. POLYM. COMPOS. 2012. © 2012 Society of Plastics Engineers
An innovative strategy for sulfopeptides analysis using MALDI‐TOF MS reflectron positive ion mode
Authors: Cantel Sonia , Brunel Luc , Ohara Keiichiro , Enjalbal Christine , Martinez Jean , Vasseur Jean‐Jacques , Smietana Michael
Published: August 2012

Sulfation of tyrosine residues is a key posttranslational modification in the regulation of various cellular processes. As such, the detection and localization of tyrosine sulfation is an essential step toward the elucidation of the physiological and pathological roles of this process. Despite substantial advances, intact sulfated peptides are still difficult to detect by MALDI‐MS due to the extreme lability of the sulfo‐moiety. The present report demonstrates for the first time how intact sulfated peptides can be directly and specifically detected by MALDI‐MS in positive reflectron mode by using pyrenemethylguanidine (pmg) as a noncovalent derivatizing agent and an ionization enhancer. This new method allows the determination of the degree of sulfation of sulfopeptides pure or in mixtures. Moreover, the observation of specific peaks in the mass spectra enables a rapid and unambiguous discrimination between phospho‐ and sulfopeptides.
Genistein‐induced mitotic arrest of gastric cancer cells by downregulating KIF20A, a proteomics study
Authors: Yan Guang‐Rong , Zou Fei‐Yan , Dang Bian‐Li , Zhang Ye , Yu Guangchuang , Liu Xiao , He Qing‐Yu
Published: August 2012

Genistein exerts its anticarcinogenic effects by inducing G2/M arrest and apoptosis of cancer cells. However, the precise molecular mechanism of action of genistein has not been completely elucidated. In this study, we used quantitative proteomics to identify the genistein‐induced protein alterations in gastric cancer cells and investigate the molecular mechanism responsible for the anti‐cancer actions of genistein. Total 86 proteins were identified to be regulated by genistein, most of which were clustered into the regulation of cell division and G2/M transition, consistent with the anti‐cancer effect of genistein. Many proteins including kinesin family proteins, TPX2, CDCA8, and CIT were identified for the first time to be regulated by genistein. Interestingly, five kinesin family proteins including KIF11, KIF20A, KIF22, KIF23, and CENPF were found to be simultaneously downregulated by genistein. Significantly decreased KIF20A was selected for further functional studies. The silencing of KIF20A inhibited cell viability and induced G2/M arrest, similar to the effects of genistein treatment in gastric cancer. And the silencing of KIF20A also increased cancer cell sensitivity to genistein inhibition, whereas overexpression of KIF20A markedly attenuated genistein‐induced cell viability inhibition and G2/M arrest. These observations suggested that KIF20A played an important role in anti‐cancer actions of genistein, and thus may be a potential molecular target for drug intervention of gastric cancer.
Optical order of the polymer phase within polymer/fullerene blend films
Authors: Engmann Sebastian , Turkovic Vida , Denner Paul , Hoppe Harald , Gobsch Gerhard
Published: August 2012

This study reports on how the degree of polymer order within a polymer/fullerene blend can be investigated by spectroscopic methods. Non‐annealed blend compositions with 0–80 wt % fullerene content were analyzed using temperature dependent photoluminescence (PL) and room temperature spectroscopic ellipsometry (SE) measurements. To evaluate the SE data with respect to the optical order, an optical model was developed, including a lower and higher ordered polymer phase within a fullerene matrix. This was done using an effective medium approach describing the polymer by combining lower and higher ordered polymer properties (polymer‐EMA). The polymer/fullerene blend was then evaluated using another EMA consisting of the polymer‐EMA and the dielectric function of the disordered fullerene. The degree of optical order obtained by SE, was confirmed using another independent measurement, photoluminescence spectroscopy, according to the method of Francis C. Spano (2005). The volume fraction of the ordered polymer within the polymer‐EMA was found to be between 70 and 60 vol % for fullerene contents lower than 20 wt % in the polymer/fullerene blend. Above 20 wt % fullerene, the optical order of the polymer strongly decreases all the way down to 0 vol %. In contrast to the complementary performed X‐ray diffraction measurements, which address only the long‐range structural order of the blends, we give quantitative information on the optical order, including information on the composition, that is, volume fractions of the higher and lower ordered polymer. The gained information on the tilt of the polymer molecules with respect to the substrate is discussed comparing XRD results from the literature with those obtained by our SE model. Finally, the developed model is used to describe the influence of the P3HT molecular weight on the optical order. Results obtained with our model were compared to the structural data and mobility data in the literature. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys, 2012
Performance Assessment of Probes Dedicated to the Monitoring of Surface Particle Contamination
Authors: Pecault Isabelle Tovena , Gensdarmes François , Basso Guillaume , Sommer Francoise
Published: August 2012

Surface probes, based on airflow particle detachment coupled with optical particle counter, are actually available to measure the particle cleanliness of surfaces in cleanroom. No reliable data exits dealing with the performance assessment of these probes in unstuck and counting particles deposited on surfaces. This work presents a method for determining the efficiency of instruments dedicated to particle surface cleanliness measurements. The method is based on the realisation of standard particle deposits by sedimentation and analysis of whole of the contaminated surface by microscopy combined with a micrometric displacement bench. The method is used to assess a trial surface probe with 30 μm and 80 μm glass beads deposited on transparent (glass) or opaque (aluminium) surfaces at concentrations ranging from 1 particle·cm–2 to 50 particles·cm–2. The results obtained show that the overall efficiency of the instrument tested is less than 5 %. The detailed analysis of results shows that this low value is mainly due to poor efficiency of sampling and detection of particles in the optical counter. When analysed in terms of particle detachment efficiency, the results agree qualitatively with a force balance analysis taking into account the friction by airflow and the distribution of adhesion forces of glass particles to glass substrates or rough aluminium substrates. Such result shows that airflow based surface probes for particle cleanliness measurements should be systematically qualified for representative conditions of operations whereas analytical microscopy measurements could be considered as reference.