bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Lymph node micro-architecture can be imaged using optical coherence tomography.
Authors: McLaughlin RA , Scolaro L , Klyen BR , Hamza S , Robbins P , Saunders C , Sampson DD 
Published: December 2010

Abstract
Abstract #804
Background: Histological assessment is the gold standard technique for identification of lymph node involvement in breast cancer. However, this may only be performed ex vivo and will often result in the unnecessary excision of healthy lymph nodes. In axillary clearance, this will result in lymphedema in approximately 26% of patients. Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) is a real-time imaging modality with the potential to perform in vivo optical biopsy of lymph nodes. We undertook ex vivo imaging of excised lymph nodes to identify which aspects of the lymph node micro-architecture could be imaged using OCT, and to identify differences between cancerous and normal nodes.&#x2028; Materials and Methods: 18 lymph nodes were taken from 13 patients undergoing axillary clearance or sentinel lymph node biopsy. Fresh excised lymph tissue was dissected into 2mm slices. A 3D-OCT scan was acquired, with a resolution of ∼11μm in both axial and lateral dimensions. Each sample underwent subsequent histological analysis using Haematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) staining and matched against the 3D-OCT data sets.&#x2028; Results: OCT images demonstrated differentiation of the three major tissue types found in the lymph node: adipose, lymph cortex and lymph capsule. Adipocytes demonstrated a characteristic honeycomb structure that was also visible in H&E stained histology. The cortex, containing a high concentration of lymphocytes, was found to give a strong level of optical backscatter in the OCT image. The capsule, consisting of less dense stroma tissue, could generally be differentiated from the cortex. Small blood vessels in the stroma and cortex presented as areas of low backscatter. Sinuses were identified as contributing to variation in intensity within the cortex. Germinal centers could be distinguished from resting lymphoid tissue by a characteristic circular structure apparent in both OCT and histology. Cancerous regions were found to be devoid of these characteristic micro-architectural structures, as the malignant cells replaced normal lymph tissue. Figure 1 shows the H&E histology image and corresponding OCT scan of a normal lymph node. Adipose, cortex, stroma and small blood vessels are all apparent in this sample.&#x2028; Discussion: These results demonstrate that OCT is able to differentiate relevant structures within lymph nodes. Our findings suggest that lymph node metastasis is evident by the lack of these structures. This corresponds well with histological findings. This work forms a basis for future in vivo studies aimed at assessing lymph node involvement prior to excision.&#x2028; &#x2028;
Citation Information: Cancer Res 2009;69(2 Suppl):Abstract nr 804.
Significant improvement in recurrence-free survival (RFS) when capecitabine (X) is integrated into docetaxel (T) → 5-FU + epirubicin + cyclophosphamide (CEF) adjuvant therapy for high-risk early breast cancer (BC): interim analysis of the FinXX-trial.
Authors: Joensuu H , Kellokumpu-Lehtinen P , Huovinen R , Jukkola-Vuorinen A , Asola R , Kokko R , Ahlgren J , Bono P , Tanner M , Lindman H , Group for The Finnish Breast Cancer 
Published: December 2010

Abstract
Abstract #82
Background: Adding X to T extends survival in patients (pts) with metastatic BC. The primary objective of the FinXX-trial is to compare RFS with XT→CEX vs. T→CEF as adjuvant therapy in pts with early BC. Secondary objectives are comparison of overall survival, distant RFS and safety. Methods: Between Jan 2004 and May 2007, 1500 pts were randomized to receive T x 3 → CEF x 3 (T 80mg/m² d1 → C 600mg/m² d1, E 75mg/m² d1, F 600mg/m² d1, q3 wks) or XT x 3 → CEX x 3 (T 60mg/m² d1 + X 900mg/m² bid d1–15 → C 600mg/m² d1, E 75mg/m² d1, X 900mg/m² bid d115, q3 wks). Results: 1496 pts were included in the ITT analysis (two pts withdrew consent, two had metastatic disease). The study population represented a high-risk group (90% node positive, 19% HER2 positive, 88% poorly or moderately differentiated tumors). The baseline characteristics were well balanced in the two treatment arms. After median follow-up of 3 years, there have been 134 events (deaths, distant or local relapses; Table). The significantly improved RFS rate was achieved despite a higher number of study treatment discontinuations in the X-containing arm (178 vs. 23 pts in the control arm; when XT was discontinued, the remaining XT cycles were replaced with an equal number of T cycles, and CEX cycles with CEF cycles). 75% of pts in the X-containing arm received all six planned cycles of therapy compared with 96% in the control arm. The adverse effect profiles of XT→CEX and T→CEF were in part different (Gr. 3/4 neutropenic fever/infection 10.0% vs. 20.2%, hand-foot syndrome 11.1% vs. 0.3%, diarrhea 6.2% vs. 3.4%, stomatitis 4.2% vs. 1.6%, myalgia 1.9% vs. 8.0%, respectively).&#x2028; &#x2028; Conclusions: The primary endpoint of this trial, to demonstrate a significant improvement in RFS, was achieved after median follow-up of 3 years. The hazard ratio of 0.66 (95% CI 0.47–0.94; p=0.020) for RFS translates into a 34% reduction in the rate of recurrences or deaths in pts receiving XT→CEX. This significant benefit was seen using an X dose of 900 mg/m² bid, and with a lower T dose in the XT arm than with T monotherapy. Overall survival data are not yet mature but a trend towards improvement (hazard ratio 0.66 [95% CI 0.401.07]; p=0.089) can be seen in the XT→CEX arm. The results suggest that the risk of breast cancer recurrence can be reduced substantially with integration of capecitabine into a taxane-/anthracycline-based regimen.
Citation Information: Cancer Res 2009;69(2 Suppl):Abstract nr 82.
The correlation of tumor vascularity as imaged by near-infrared technology with tissue distribution of angiogenic and growth promoters.
Authors: Tannenbaum SH , Phoenix K , Hegde P , Claffey KP 
Published: December 2010

Abstract
Abstract #907
Background: Angiogenesis is necessary for solid tumors to grow. Rapidly growing tissues, increased metabolic demands as well as the presence of hypoxia and ischemia promote angiogenesis by stimulation of factors like vascular endothelial cell growth factor (VEGF), a key angiogenic factor. Many studies have found that angiogenesis is an independent prognostic factor in both node positive and node negative breast cancer. We have developed a novel technique, ultrasound guided optical tomography in the near-infrared wavelength (NIR-US), that accurately localizes tumor lesion with ultrasound and then images tumor angiogenesis. We have now collected images and tissue from 12 patients treated with preoperative chemotherapy. These tumors are large and heterogeneous with respect to vascular images. We have begun to correlate the tissue expression of a variety of pro-angiogenic proteins with the extent, distribution and pattern of vascularity demonstrated by our NIR-US. Methods: Using NIR-US images, the quantification of vascular content was performed by measuring the total hemoglobin content X volume of distribution of that hemoglobin content. This measure is termed the Blood Volume Index (BVI). In 12 patients studied, the level of tumor vascularity as measured by the initial BVI did not correlate with tumor grade, mitotic index, or estrogen receptor status or most importantly with response to treatment. We analyzed tissue specimens already collected with known patterns of vascular distribution on NIR-US and with known MVD to understand what might be driving the vascular response. Histologic sections were prepared and stained for; endothelial adhesion marker PECAM/CD31, VEGF, the activated stress response kinase P-AMPK, the cell proliferation marker Ki67, and SMA (smooth muscle actin) a marker of vasculature support cells and glucose transporter-1. Each case was quantified using at least 5 40X fields and pixel-by-pixel summation using Image Pro Plus software (Media cybernetics, Inc.) represented as average +/- SD. Results: The tumor BVI as defined by NIR-US did not correlate with either CD31 or SMA expression and was inversely correlated with VEGF levels. The higher VEGF, the lower the BVI. Of particular interest, the highest CD31 signals correlated with high VEGF levels in two, HER-2 positive patients, but not with BVI. Proliferation rate (Ki67), glucose transporter-1 and P-AMPK expression did not correlate with vascular content as measured by NIR-US.&#x2028; Conclusion: Study of the above growth promoters in tissue imaged by NIR-US did not reveal an association between their expression and the vascular content of the tissue. Of interest, VEGF expression varied greatly within the tumor specimens and showed no correlation to BVI.&#x2028; Financial support provided by a Research Grant from the CT Breast Health Initiative.
Citation Information: Cancer Res 2009;69(2 Suppl):Abstract nr 907.
Microenvironmental changes in breast tumor progression: genetic or epigenetic?.
Authors: Polyak K , Hu M , Shipitsin M 
Published: December 2010

Abstract
Abstract #PD-1
Increasing evidence suggests that changes in the cellular microenvironment contribute to tumorigenesis, but the molecular basis of these alterations is not well understood. We have characterized molecular alterations that occur during breast tumor progression in each cell type that compose normal breast tissue and in situ (DCIS-ductal Carcinoma In Situ) and invasive breast carcinomas using SAGE (Serial Analysis of Gene Expression) for gene expression profiling, SNP (Single Nucleotide Polymorphism) arrays and array CGH (Comprehensive Genomic Hybridization) for analyzing genetic changes, and MSDK (Methylation Specific Digital Karyotyping) for the characterization of DNA methylation profiles. Using these approaches we determined that gene expression and epigenetic changes occur in all cell types during breast tumor progression, whereas clonally selected genetic alterations are limited to tumor epithelial cells. We also determined that dramatic changes occur in the normal to DCIS transition, while we were not able to identify distinct in situ and invasive carcinoma molecular signatures. These findings suggest that the progression of in situ to invasive carcinoma may be influenced by non-epithelial cells composing the microenvironment.
Citation Information: Cancer Res 2009;69(2 Suppl):Abstract nr PD-1.
Using faecal samples in lizard dietary studies
Authors: Pérez-Mellado Valentín , Pérez-Cembranos Ana , Garrido Mario , Luiselli Luca , Corti Claudia 
Published: December 2010

Abstract
While the use of faecal pellets is widely accepted as a primary
methodological source of data for dietary studies, a recent paper advocated
for the use of gut contents. This was due to the fact that faecal samples
would give biased results of the diet of arthropod predators, due to a lower
representation of soft-bodied prey in faecal pellets. To test this
assumption, we compared the spring diet of several populations of two
insular lizards from the Balearic Islands (Spain), Podarcis lilfordi and
Podarcis pityusensis, using both faecal pellets and gut contents. Our
results do not support the supposed bias of dietary analyses based on faecal
pellets. Indeed, soft-bodied prey and particularly insect larvae are often
equally represented in faecal pellets and gut contents. Alternatively, soft
bodied prey are represented in different proportions in gut contents and
faecal pellets, but in some cases with higher proportions being observed in
the gut contents, and in other cases with higher proportions in faecal
samples. We conclude that faecal pellets can be a reliable source of
information for dietary studies.
Is body shape of mangrove-dwelling monitor lizards (Varanus indicus; Varanidae) sexually dimorphic?
Authors: Frýdlová Petra , Velenský Petr , Šimková Olga , Cikánová Veronika , Hnízdo Jan , Rehák Ivan , Frynta Daniel 
Published: December 2010

Abstract
In monitor lizards, males are typically larger than conspecific females, but
body shape is usually quite similar in both sexes. This not only represents
a puzzle worthy of evolutionary explanation, but also makes field sex
determination of monitor lizards difficult. We asked whether subtle
differences in body shape follow the same pattern as in other sexually
dimorphic lizard taxa and thus can be explained by the same selective
forces. We tested the hypotheses that (1) females have a longer abdomen due
to fecundity selection and (2) males possess bigger heads due to intrasexual
selection. We also hypothesised that (3) male monitors show a wider chests
and longer upper fore-limbs to win male-male wrestling matches. We monitored
ontogeny in 35 mangrove-dwelling monitors (Varanus indicus). Seventeen body
measurements were taken every three months up to the age of 24-34 months.
Sex was determined by an ultrasonographic imaging. We employed multiple
approaches to remove the effect of size and used both confirmation and
exploratory statistics. The results revealed that sexual differences in body
shape were small and emerged after maturity. Females have a relatively
longer abdomen while males wider chest and longer upper fore-limbs. Thus,
the differences in body shape between male and female varanid lizards may be
attributed to both fecundity and sexual selection.
Weather Forecasting by Humans—Heuristics and Decision Making
Authors: Doswell Charles A. 
Published: December 2010

AbstractThe decision-making literature contains considerable information about how humans approach tasks involving uncertainty using heuristics. Although there is some reason to believe that weather forecasters are not identical in all respects to the typical subjects used in judgment and decision-making studies, there also is evidence that weather forecasters are not so different that the existing understanding of human cognition as it relates to making decisions is entirely inapplicable to weather forecasters. Accordingly, some aspects of cognition and decision making are reviewed and considered in terms of how they apply to human weather forecasters, including biases introduced by heuristics. Considerable insight into human forecasting could be gained by applying available studies of the cognitive psychology of decision making. What few studies exist that have used weather forecasters as subjects suggest that further work might well be productive in terms of helping to guide the improvement of weather forecasts by humans. It is concluded that a multidisciplinary approach, involving disciplines outside of meteorology, needs to be developed and supported if there is to be a future role for humans in forecasting the weather.
Implementation of adolescent family-based substance use prevention programmes in health care settings
Authors: Aalborg Annette E , Miller Brenda A , Husson Gail , Byrnes Hilary F , Bauman Karl E , Spoth Richard L 
Published: December 2010

Objective: To examine factors that influence the effectiveness and quality of implementation of evidence-based family-focused adolescent substance use prevention programmes delivered in health care settings and to assess the effects of programme choice versus programme assignment on programme delivery. Design: Strengthening Families Program: For Parents and Youth 10–14 (SFP) and Family Matters (FM) were delivered as part of a randomized longitudinal prevention study designed to assess the influence of programme choice versus assignment to programme on study recruitment, retention and adolescent substance use outcomes. Families were initially randomized to a choice (FM or SFP) or assigned study condition (FM, SFP or control group). Setting: Families with an 11-year-old child were randomly selected from health plan membership databases of four large managed care medical centres in the San Francisco California Bay area; 494 ethnically diverse families enrolled in study programmes. Method: A mixed-method case study was conducted to assess procedures used to maximize implementation quality and fidelity. Programme monitoring was conducted to assess differences in programme delivery for families in the choice versus assigned study condition. Results: Programme fidelity improved over time. Families who chose FM (versus being assigned to the programme) completed the programme in a shorter period and spent more time implementing programme activities. SFP ‘choice’ families (versus assigned) attended more programme sessions. Conclusion: Fidelity assessment data can be successfully utilized for ongoing quality improvement of programme delivery. Programme choice appears to increase family engagement in programmes. Future effectiveness trials should assess approaches to integrate evidence-based family prevention programmes with adolescent health services.
An exploratory mixed method assessment of low income, pregnant Hispanic women’s understanding of gestational diabetes and dietary change
Authors: Rhoads-Baeza Maria Elena , Reis Janet 
Published: December 2010

Objective: To describe and assess low income, healthy, pregnant Hispanic women’s understanding of gestational diabetes (GDM) and willingness to change aspects of their diet. Design: One-on-one, in-person interviews conducted in Spanish with 94 women (primarily Mexican). Setting: Federal Qualified Community Health Center’s prenatal clinic. Method: Exploratory two-phased mixed method with a survey of knowledge and attitudes towards gestational diabetes and dietary change, and interviews. In phase two, participants were shown a flyer with the amount of carbohydrates in tortillas and fruit juice in comparison to a candy bar and told of the importance of drinking one glass of water before each meal. Results: Interest in having a healthy baby was high for all participants. Review of a 24-hour dietary recall identified high consumption of carbohydrates and low intake of green and leafy vegetables and water. Family involvement, especially involvement of the husband, was central to almost all the participants’ views about food purchase, preparation and consumption. In the phase two follow-up, most women tried to improve their water intake but no-one reported being able to decrease the number of tortillas eaten. Conclusion: The overall profile of attitudes, knowledge, diet and willingness to change aspects of a diet offers additional direction on how to counsel this patient group on ways to decrease risk of GDM. Given Hispanic women’s elevated risk for GDM, small dietary changes presented in culturally relevant, straightforward messages about commonly eaten foods might result in improved health for the mother and the broader family.
People getting a grip on arthritis: A knowledge transfer strategy to empower patients with rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis
Authors: Brosseau Lucie , Lineker Sydney , Bell Mary , Wells George , Casimiro Lynn , Egan Mary , Cranney Ann , Tugwell Peter , Wilson Keith G , De Angelis Gino , Loew Laurianne 
Published: December 2010

Objective: The purpose of this study was twofold. First, to help people with arthritis become aware of and utilize Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) and Osteoarthritis (OA) Clinical Practice Guidelines (CPGs) as they relate to self-management strategies. Second, to evaluate the impact of specific Knowledge Translation (KT) activities on CPG uptake. More specifically, investigators were interested in: (1) participant acquisition of knowledge, skills, and self-efficacy regarding the uptake of CPGs; (2) participant intention and actual use of CPGs; (3) whether participants trained to become educators shared new CPG knowledge with other people who have RA or OA; and (4) the effect of press media in promoting CPGs to the general public. Methods: Workshop 1 (WS1) was delivered by a multidisciplinary faculty. Selected participants from WS1 were then trained to become educators of pertinent CPGs and deliver the same content to a second group of patients in Workshop 2 (WS2). Questionnaires to measure the four aforementioned interests in KT were administered pre- and post- workshop as well as three months post-workshop. Results: Acquisition of new knowledge by workshop participants ( n = 49) was found for Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS), Tai Chi, and insoles and footwear, although not for weight management, aerobic walking, and strengthening exercises. Immediately post-workshop, participants in WS1 ( M = 7.96, SD = 1.89) and WS2 ( M = 7.16, SD = 1.46) had comparatively similar self-efficacy levels regarding symptom management. No statistically-significant changes were found for online general public participants. Conclusion: An intensive evidence-based educational programme focused on training CPG educators appears to be an effective method of KT for patients with RA and OA. Similar KT activities would be employed again but with greater attention to use of media strategies.
Variables Predictive of Bilateral Occult Papillary Microcarcinoma Following Total Thyroidectomy
Authors: Connor Matt P. , Wells David , Schmalbach Cecelia E. 
Published: December 2010

ObjectiveTo investigate risk factors associated with papillary thyroid microcarcinoma (PTM) involving the thyroid lobes bilaterally at the time of diagnosis. In doing so, the authors hope to identify a subset of PTM patients who may benefit from more aggressive surgical intervention with a total thyroidectomy.Study DesignA prospective cohort study of all newly diagnosed, previously untreated PTM patients presenting between 1998 and 2008.SettingTertiary care military hospital.Subjects and MethodsFollowing total thyroidectomy, patients were grouped according to unilateral versus bilateral PTM thyroid lobe involvement. The primary outcome variable was PTM in both thyroid lobes. Independent variables of interest included patient demographics, tumor stage, nodule size, tumor focus size, and tumor focality. Univariate analysis was used to investigate risk factors associated with bilateral lobe PTM.ResultsFive of 25 (20%) patients had bilateral thyroid lobe PTM at presentation. There was no statistically significant difference between the unilateral versus bilateral groups with respect to age, gender, history, stage, and tumor size. Bilateral thyroid lobe PTM occurred significantly more often in the setting of multifocal PTM (4/7, 57%) versus unifocal PTM (1/18 cases, 5.6%; P =. 012). The odds ratio of harboring occult PTM in the contralateral lobe at time of diagnosis in the setting of multifocal PTM was 23 times greater than the unifocal counterpart (95% confidence interval, 1.9‐27.9).ConclusionMultifocal PTM is a significant risk factor associated with bilateral thyroid lobe involvement at presentation. Surgeons are justified and encouraged to offer multifocal PTM patients completion thyroidectomy as part of their oncologic treatment.