bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Clampless laparoendoscopic single‐site partial nephrectomy for renal cancer with low PADUA score: technique and surgical outcomes
Authors: Springer Christopher , Veneziano Domenico , Wimpissinger Florian , Inferrera Antonino , Fornara Paolo , Greco Francesco 
Published: January 2013

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?
Laparoendoscopic single‐site (LESS) surgery has proved to be immediately applicable in the clinical field, being safe and feasible in the hands of experienced laparoscopic surgeons in well‐selected patients. All extirpative and reconstructive urological procedures have been described in the literature, but LESS partial nephrectomy (PN) is one of the most complex procedures and few studies have been published on this subject.
The study describes a clampless technique for LESS PN, by reducing the blood pressure and increasing the intra‐abdominal pressure of the pneumoperitoneum to 20 mmHg, timed to precisely coincide with excision of the tumour. This technique was found to be safe and feasible in the treatment of low‐risk T1a RCC.
Objective
To describe the technique and report the surgical outcomes of clampless laparoendoscopic single‐site (LESS) partial nephrectomy (PN) in the treatment of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) with low PADUA score.
Patients and Methods
Clampless LESS PN was performed in 14 patients with cT1a renal tumours. Indications to perform a clampless LESS PN were low‐risk, laterally based renal tumours, located away from the renal hilum, with a PADUA score ≤7.
Demographic data and peri‐operative and postoperative variables were recorded and analysed.
Kidney function was evaluated by measuring serum creatinine concentration and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) pre‐ and postoperatively and at 6‐month follow‐up.
Results
The median operating time was 120 min and warm ischaemia time was zero in all cases. Only one early complication (Clavien grade 1) was recorded: one patient developed a flank haematoma which it was possible to treat by conservative therapy.
Serum creatinine and modification of diet renal disease eGFR were not found to be significantly different pre‐ and postoperatively and at 6‐month follow‐up.
Definitive pathological results showed 12 pT1a RCCs and two pT1a‐chromophobe RCCs. All tumours were removed with negative surgical margins.
All patients were satisfied with the cosmetic results.
At a median (range) follow‐up period of 12 (8–15) months, all patients were alive without evidence of tumour recurrence or port‐site metastasis.
Conclusion
Clampless LESS PN is a safe and feasible surgical procedure in the treatment of low‐risk T1a RCC, with excellent cosmetic results.
Haematuria after prostate brachytherapy
Authors: Leapman Michael S. , Hall Simon J. , Stone Nelson N. , Stock Richard G. 
Published: January 2013

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?
Previous descriptions of haematuria after brachytherapy are limited.
This study characterizes the long‐term incidence and associated clinical risk factors of haematuria after prostate brachytherapy.
Objective
To characterize the incidence and clinical history of gross haematuria after prostate brachytherapy.
To identify treatment risk factors for the development of gross haematuria in this setting.
Patients and Methods
We reviewed haematuria outcomes collected prospectively in 2454 patients treated with transperineal prostate brachytherapy over a 20‐year period at a single institution.
Patients were followed for a median of 5.9 years.
The association of haematuria with age, pretreatment PSA, ethnicity, clinical tumour stage, Gleason score, prostate volume, isotope (iodine 125 or palladium 103), biologically effective dose (BED), external beam radiation, androgen deprivation, development of urinary retention and occurrence of biochemical failure was investigated.
Results
A total of 218 men (8.9%) reported gross haematuria at a median time of 772.2 days after implantation.
Haematuria was associated with prostate volume >40 cm3 (P < 0.01), use of external beam radiation (P < 0.01), Gleason score >7 (P = 0.037), Asian ethnicity (P < 0.001), BED >200 Gy (P = 0.01), and freedom from biochemical failure (P = 0.004).
On multivariate analysis, prostate volume >40 cm3 (P = 0.002), external beam radiation, (P = 0.001), and freedom from biochemical failure (P = 0.035) were predictors of haematuria.
Conclusions
Late gross haematuria was observed in a small proportion of men after brachytherapy and may occur with considerable latency.
Larger prostate glands, freedom from biochemical failure and external beam radiation are risk factors.
Cell Exclusion in Couette Flow: Evaluation Through Flow Visualization and Mechanical Forces
Authors: Leslie Laura J. , Marshall Lindsay J. , Devitt Andrew , Hilton Andrew , Tansley Geoff D. 
Published: January 2013

AbstractCell exclusion is the phenomenon whereby the hematocrit and viscosity of blood decrease in areas of high stress. While this is well known in naturally occurring Poiseuille flow in the human body, it has never previously been shown in Couette flow, which occurs in implantable devices including blood pumps. The high‐shear stresses that occur in the gap between the boundaries in Couette flow are known to cause hemolysis in erythrocytes. We propose to mitigate this damage by initiating cell exclusion through the use of a spiral‐groove bearing (SGB) that will provide escape routes by which the cells may separate themselves from the plasma and the high stresses in the gap. The force between two bearings (one being the SGB) in Couette flow was measured. Stained erythrocytes, along with silver spheres of similar diameter to erythrocytes, were visualized across a transparent SGB at various gap heights. A reduction in the force across the bearing for human blood, compared with fluids of comparable viscosity, was found. This indicates a reduction in the viscosity of the fluid across the bearing due to a lowered hematocrit because of cell exclusion. The corresponding images clearly show both cells and spheres being excluded from the gap by entering the grooves. This is the first time the phenomenon of cell exclusion has been shown in Couette flow. It not only furthers our understanding of how blood responds to different flows but could also lead to improvements in the future design of medical devices.
Effect of cryopreserved amniotic membrane on the development of adhesions and fibrosis after extraocular muscle surgery in rabbits
Authors: Kassem Rehab R. , Khodeir Mostafa M. , Salem Mostafa , Abdel‐Hamid Mohammed A. , El‐Mofty Randa M. Abdel‐Moneim , Kamal Ahmed M. , Elhilali Hala M. 
Published: January 2013

Abstract.Purpose:  To histopathologically evaluate the effect of cryopreserved human amniotic membrane (AM) transplant on preventing the development of postoperative adhesions after extraocular muscle surgery.Methods:  Ten albino rabbits were used. The superior rectus muscles were bilaterally resected. In right eyes, the muscle was wrapped with cryopreserved human AM (group AM). In left eyes, the muscle was not wrapped with AM and served as a control group (group C). The rabbits were killed, and the eyes were enucleated 6 weeks after surgery to perform histopathological examination.Results:  On histopathological examination, the AM was present in eight eyes, surrounded by periamniotic inflammation, with no adhesions detected between rectus muscle and sclera, conjunctiva and Tenon’s capsule in the segment where the AM was present, but detected elsewhere. Adhesions were detected in the other two eyes of group AM, in which the AM was absent, and in all group C eyes. When comparing eye pairs of each rabbit, AM eyes showed significantly less adhesions between the muscle and sclera (p = 0.009) and between the muscle and Tenon’s capsule and conjunctiva (p = 0.008), in the region of AM application, and significantly more foreign body inflammation (p = 0.031), than C eyes. The differences between AM and C eye pairs, in terms of conjunctival inflammation and vascularity and muscle fibrosis, were insignificant (p > 0.05).Conclusions:  Cryopreserved AM is effective in reducing postoperative extraocular muscle adhesions. Its application is, therefore, recommended during strabismus reoperations.
Optic nerve head morphology in young patients after antiglaucomatous filtering surgery
Authors: Panda‐Jonas Songhomitra , Xu Liang , Yang Hua , Wang Ya X. , Jonas Shefali B. , Jonas Jost B. 
Published: January 2013

Abstract.Purpose:  To compare the optic nerve head appearance in glaucomatous eyes before and after marked reduction of intraocular pressure (IOP).Methods:  The hospital‐based observational case‐series study included selected glaucoma patients for whom optic disc photographs taken before and 1 week to 5 months after surgical reduction of IOP were morphometrically examined.Results:  The study included 23 eyes of 16 patients (mean age: 28.7 ± 6.0 years). Mean preoperative IOP was 31.6 ± 7.7 mmHg (22–52 mmHg), and mean IOP drop was 21.5 ± 8.4 mmHg (11–45 mmHg). The horizontal disc diameter decreased significantly (p < 0.001) after surgery, while the vertical disc diameter did not change markedly (p = 0.54). The width of the neuroretinal rim increased significantly in all disc quadrants (all p‐values ≤ 0.01), optic cup depth decreased (p < 0.001), and reflectivity of the inner retinal surface increased significantly (p < 0.001). Some eyes showed a pronounced reduction in beta zone of parapapillary atrophy parallel to an increase in horizontal disc diameter, and some eyes showed an enlargement of beta zone parallel to a reduction in horizontal disc diameter.Conclusions:  After marked reduction of high IOP, some eyes of young adult patients with glaucoma can show a horizontal shrinkage of the optic nerve head, in addition to a partial restoration of the neuroretinal rim and a flattening of the optic cup. In addition, beta zone of parapapillary atrophy can decrease or increase, complementarily to changes in the horizontal disc diameter. These findings may be of interest for the biomechanics of the optic nerve head and the precision of imaging techniques.
Effect of Precursor on Speciation and Nanostructure of SiBCN Polymer‐Derived Ceramics
Authors: Widgeon Scarlett , Mera Gabriela , Gao Yan , Sen Sabyasachi , Navrotsky Alexandra , Riedel Ralf 
Published: January 2013

A comparative structural study of silicon borocarbonitride polymer‐derived ceramics synthesized using polyborosilylcarbodiimide and polyborosilazane precursors is carried out using high‐resolution, multinuclear, one‐ and two‐ dimensional NMR spectroscopy. The polyborosilylcarbodiimide‐derived ceramics contain relatively pure Si3N4 and C nanodomains with the BN domains being present predominantly at the interface such that the bonding at the interface consists of Si–N–B, Si–N–C, and B–N–C linkages. In contrast, the structure of the polyborosilazane‐derived ceramics consists of significant amount of mixed bonding in the nearest‐neighbor coordination environments of Si and B atoms leading to the formation of SiCxN4−x (0 ≤ x ≤ 4) tetrahedral units and BCN2 triangular units. The interfacial region between the SiCN and C nanodomains is occupied by the BCN phase. These results demonstrate that the chemistry of the polymeric precursors exerts major influence on the microstructure and bonding in their derived ceramics even when the final chemical compositions of the latter are similar.
Parent‐ and self‐reported dimensions of oppositionality in youth: construct validity, concurrent validity, and the prediction of criminal outcomes in adulthood
Authors: Aebi Marcel , Plattner Belinda , Metzke Christa Winkler , Bessler Cornelia , Steinhausen Hans‐Christoph 
Published: January 2013

Background:  Different dimensions of oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) have been found as valid predictors of further mental health problems and antisocial behaviors in youth. The present study aimed at testing the construct, concurrent, and predictive validity of ODD dimensions derived from parent‐ and self‐report measures.Method:  Confirmatory factor analyses were performed to test a three‐dimensional model (ODD‐irritability, ODD‐headstrong, and ODD‐hurtful) and a two‐dimensional model (ODD‐irritability, ODD‐headstrong/hurtful) based on items of the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) and the Youth Self Report (YSR) collected in a Swiss community study of 1,031 adolescents (519 boys, 512 girls) aged between 10.7 and 17.9 (M = 13.85, SD = 1.63) years. Logistic regression analyses were applied to predict scores in the clinical range of concurrent CBCL/YSR‐anxiety/depression, CBCL/YSR‐attention problems, and CBCL/YSR‐delinquent behavior and depression as measured by the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale (CES‐D) as well as to predict the presence of adult criminal convictions.Results:  CFA findings were in favor of a three‐dimensional model rather than a two‐dimensional model of ODD. The CBCL/YSR‐ODD‐irritability scale was related to concurrent self‐reported depression, but also to attention problems and delinquent behavior. CBCL/YSR‐ODD‐hurtful and less strongly also the combined YSR‐headstrong/hurtful scale predicted adult criminal outcomes.Conclusions:  As proposed by the DSM‐5 workgroup, different ODD‐dimensions were confirmed by the present study. ODD‐irritability predicts psychiatric comorbidity and ODD‐hurtful symptoms should be specifically considered in youth at risk for criminal outcomes.
Children's thoughts on the social exclusion of peers with intellectual or learning disabilities
Authors: Nowicki E. A. , Brown J. , Stepien M. 
Published: January 2013

AbstractBackgroundPrevious research has shown that children with intellectual or learning disabilities are at risk for social exclusion by their peers but little is known of children's views on this topic. In this study, we used concept mapping to investigate elementary school children's thoughts on why they believe their peers with intellectual or learning disabilities are sometimes socially excluded at school.MethodParticipants were 49 grade five and six children who attended inclusive classrooms. Interviews were digitally recorded and transcribed. We extracted 49 unique statements from the transcribed data, and then invited participants to sort the statements into meaningful categories.ResultsSorted data were entered into matrices, which were summed and analysed with multi‐dimensional scaling and cluster analysis. A four‐cluster solution provided the best conceptual fit for the data. Clusters reflected themes on (1) the thoughts and actions of other children; (2) differences in learning ability and resource allocation; (3) affect, physical characteristics and schooling; and (4) negative thoughts and behaviours.ConclusionsThe overarching reason for social exclusion focused on differences between children with and without disabilities. This study also provided evidence that children are effective, reliable and competent participants in concept mapping. Educational and research implications are discussed.
Formaldehyde metabolism and formaldehyde‐induced stimulation of lactate production and glutathione export in cultured neurons
Authors: Tulpule Ketki , Hohnholt Michaela C. , Dringen Ralf 
Published: January 2013

AbstractFormaldehyde is endogenously produced in the human body and brain levels of this compound are elevated in neurodegenerative conditions. Although the toxic potential of an excess of formaldehyde has been studied, little is known on the molecular mechanisms underlying its neurotoxicity as well as on the ability of neurons to metabolize formaldehyde. To address these topics, we have used cerebellar granule neuron cultures as model system. These cultures express mRNAs of various enzymes that are involved in formaldehyde metabolism and were remarkably resistant toward acute formaldehyde toxicity. Cerebellar granule neurons metabolized formaldehyde with a rate of around 200 nmol/(h × mg) which was accompanied by significant increases in the cellular and extracellular concentrations of formate. In addition, formaldehyde application significantly increased glucose consumption, almost doubled the rate of lactate release from viable neurons and strongly accelerated the export of the antioxidant glutathione. The latter process was completely prevented by inhibition of the known glutathione exporter multidrug resistance protein 1. These data indicate that cerebellar granule neurons are capable of metabolizing formaldehyde and that the neuronal glycolysis and glutathione export are severely affected by the presence of formaldehyde.
Five‐year multicenter study of magnetic attachments used for natural overdenture abutments
Authors: Gonda T. , Yang T. C. , Maeda Y. 
Published: January 2013

SummaryThe purpose of this study was to examine a longitudinal clinical performance of magnetic attachments used for natural overdenture abutments. The study included 131 patients who had used removable prostheses (complete overdentures 31%, partial dentures 69%) more than 5 years (40–90 years old) with 211 magnetic attachments on natural abutments (Magfit 400 or 600; Aichi Steel co., Aichi, Japan) treated in 15 clinics using a standardized protocol. Analyses were performed on the degree of patient satisfaction regarding retention, complications of magnets (corrosion, detachment from denture base), abutments (pain during mastication, periodontal pocket formation, inflammation, mobility), and dentures (fracture etc.). Ninety‐seven percent of patients were satisfied with the retention and stability of their dentures. No corrosion of magnet was observed, and 19 magnets were detached. Most frequent complication of abutments was periodontal pocket formation (52%), followed by the inflammation (29%), increase in mobility (27%) and pain (4%). Magnetic attachment on natural tooth abutments provided a viable and long‐term treatment option.
Melatonin and its potential biological functions in the fruits of sweet cherry
Authors: Zhao Yu , Tan Dun‐Xian , Lei Qiong , Chen Hao , Wang Lin , Li Qing‐tian , Gao Yinan , Kong Jin 
Published: January 2013

AbstractMelatonin is a well‐known molecule which possesses many beneficial effects on human health. Many agriculture products provide natural melatonin in the diet. Cherry is one such fruit as they are rich in melatonin. In order to understand the biological roles of melatonin in cherry fruit, melatonin synthesis and its changes over 24 hr period were systematically monitored both during their development and in the ripe cherries in two cultivars, ‘Hongdeng’ (Prunus avium L. cv. Hongdeng) and ‘Rainier’ (Prunus avium L. cv. Rainier). It was found that both darkness and oxidative stress induced melatonin synthesis, which led to dual melatonin synthetic peaks during a 24 hr period. The high levels of malondialdehyde induced by high temperature and high intensity light exposure were directly related to up‐regulated melatonin production. A primary function of melatonin in cherry fruits is speculated to be as an antioxidant to protect the cherry from the oxidative stress. Importantly, plant tryptophan decaboxylase gene (PaTDC) was identified in cherry fruits. Our data shows that PaTDC expression is positively related to the melatonin production in the cherry. This provides additional information to suggest that tryptophan decaboxylase is a rate‐limiting enzyme of melatonin synthesis in plants.
Increasing Access to Cholesterol Screening in Rural Communities Catalyzes Cardiovascular Disease Prevention
Authors: Landy David C. , Gorin Michael A. , Rudock Robert J. , O'Connell Mark T. 
Published: January 2013

AbstractPurposeDespite increasing frequency, little evidence guides cholesterol screening in less traditional health care settings, such as rural health fairs.MethodsThe Miller School of Medicine Department of Community Service (DOCS) is a student‐run organization providing free basic health care to underserved South Florida communities. We retrospectively reviewed all new patients seen at 2007 DOCS rural fairs to describe their low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) and high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) values. In addition, we assessed if patient characteristics were associated with cholesterol abnormalities and whether patients with abnormalities who returned to a subsequent fair in 2008 or 2009 improved their cholesterol.FindingsOf 252 patients, 145 (58%) had an LDL cholesterol over 129 mg/dL and 61 (24%) had an HDL cholesterol below 40 mg/dL or 50 mg/dL for males and females, respectively. Baseline LDL cholesterol was not associated with body‐mass index (BMI), age over 60 years, gender, healthy lifestyle habits, or insurance status. Of 36 patients with elevated LDL cholesterol and a follow‐up screening, 24 (67%) reduced their LDL cholesterol by at least 16 mg/dL though reductions were not associated with BMI reduction, and 22 (61%) increased their HDL cholesterol by at least 5 mg/dL, trending with BMI reduction.ConclusionsCholesterol screening at rural fairs can identify a high proportion of patients with abnormal cholesterol, including those who might not be considered at high risk. Although this may catalyze favorable cholesterol changes, the lack of an association with weight loss suggests patients seek additional medical care, which should be considered before offering cholesterol screening at fairs.
Re‐conceptualizing Abstract Conceptualization in Social Theory: The Case of the “Structure” Concept
Authors: Lizardo Omar 
Published: January 2013

AbstractI this paper, I draw on recent research on the radically embodied and perceptual bases of conceptualization in linguistics and cognitive science to develop a new way of reading and evaluating abstract concepts in social theory. I call this approach Sociological Idea Analysis. I argue that, in contrast to the traditional view of abstract concepts, which conceives them as amodal “presuppositions” removed from experience, abstract concepts are irreducibly grounded in experience and partake of non‐negotiable perceptual‐symbolic features from which a non‐propositional “logic” naturally follows. This implies that uncovering the imagistic bases of allegedly abstract notions should be a key part of theoretical evaluation of concepts in social theory. I provide a case study of the general category of “structure” in the social and human sciences to demonstrate the analytic utility of the approach.