ANZ JOURNAL OF SURGERY, Issue 1-2 2008
Esther W. L. Chuwa
Background: Breast cancer is the most common cancer among Singapore women and ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) is believed to be the precursor of most invasive breast cancers. The incidence of DCIS has increased dramatically with mammographic screening, but its treatment remains controversial. Further, results of treatment for DCIS in Asians, and in particular Singapore women, are lacking. We review our institution's results treating a predominantly Chinese population with DCIS of the breast before the introduction of mammographic screening and aim to determine treatment outcomes and identify prognostic factors for disease recurrence. Methods: Between January 1994 and December 2000, 170 consecutive patients with DCIS were treated at our institution. One hundred and three (60.5%) were managed with breast conservation (17 with local wide excision alone and 86 with adjuvant irradiation following wide excision) whereas 67 (39.4%) underwent mastectomy. Of those who underwent wide local excision, 56 (54.3%) underwent re-excision for margin clearance. Overall, the axilla was surgically staged in 47 (27.6%) and no nodal involvement was found in all cases. Pathological specimens were reviewed by one of the authors. Median follow up was 86 months (range 4,151 months). Results: Sixty-two patients (36%) were asymptomatic at presentation whereas most (64%) presented with clinical symptoms; out of these more than half (54%) presented with a palpable lump. The median size of tumours was 13 mm (range 1.5,90 mm). Patients who underwent breast conservation surgery had oncologically more favourable lesions , with a significantly higher incidence of smaller and non-palpable lesions and lesions of lower nuclear grade. However, there was also a significantly higher incidence of local recurrence in this group. At the end of follow up, there were 12 patients (7.1%) who developed local recurrence and 8 patients (4.7%) developed contralateral disease. The crude incidence of all breast events (including both local failure and contralateral events) at 5 years was 5.6%. Median time to the development of any breast event (local recurrence or contralateral disease) was 60 months (range 12,120 months). The cumulative 5-year recurrence-free survival for patients who underwent breast conservation surgery was 94%. Factors influencing local recurrence rate were close or involved margins (,1 mm) and lack of adjuvant radiotherapy. There were no cancer-specific deaths during the period of follow up. Conclusion: Our results indicate that rates of cancer-specific survival were similar after mastectomy and breast conserving surgery. However, a close or involved margin (,1mm) and lack of adjuvant radiotherapy were associated with local recurrence, with margin status being the independent predictor for local recurrence. Our results reinforce that optimizing local therapy is crucial to improve local control rates in women treated with DCIS in our population. [source]

URBAN,RURAL DIFFERENCES IN THE MANAGEMENT OF SCREEN-DETECTED INVASIVE BREAST CANCER AND DUCTAL CARCINOMA IN SITU IN VICTORIA

ANZ JOURNAL OF SURGERY, Issue 11 2006
David L. Kok
Background: At least one-third of primary breast cancers in Australia are discovered by population-based mammographic screening. The aim of this study was to determine whether there were any differences in the surgical treatment of women diagnosed with breast cancer by BreastScreen Victoria between urban and rural populations and to investigate temporal changes in their pattern of care. Methods: An analysis of women diagnosed with breast cancer (invasive and non-invasive) by BreastScreen Victoria from 1993 to 2000 was conducted. Descriptive analyses of the proportion of women undergoing each surgical treatment type over time were carried out. Logistic regression was used to assess the effect of urban,rural residence on each treatment outcome while accounting for possible confounding factors. Results: Rural women with invasive breast cancer were less likely to undergo breast-conserving surgery (BCS) compared with urban women (odds ratio, 0.42; 95% confidence interval, 0.35,0.50). The same was also true for rural women with ductal carcinoma in situ (odds ratio, 0.53; 95% confidence interval, 0.29,0.96). This difference was independent of patient and tumour characteristics, including tumour size, surgeon caseload, patient's age and socioeconomic status. It also persisted over time despite a steady overall increase in use of BCS for both invasive and non-invasive cancers over the study period. Conclusions: Among Victorian women with screen-detected breast cancer, urban women consistently had higher rates of BCS compared with rural women despite increased overall adoption of BCS. Reasons for this disparity are still unclear and warrant further investigation. [source]

DTI in Context: Illustrating Brain Fiber Tracts In Situ

COMPUTER GRAPHICS FORUM, Issue 3 2010
Pjotr Svetachov
Abstract We present an interactive illustrative visualization method inspired by traditional pen-and-ink illustration styles. Specifically, we explore how to provide context around DTI fiber tracts in the form of surfaces of the brain, the skull, or other objects such as tumors. These contextual surfaces are derived from either segmentation data or generated using interactive iso-surface extraction and are rendered with a flexible, slice-based hatching technique, controlled with ambient occlusion. This technique allows us to produce a consistent and frame-coherent appearance with precise control over the lines. In addition, we provide context through cutting planes onto which we render gray matter with stippling. Together, our methods not only facilitate the interactive exploration and illustration of brain fibers within their anatomical context but also allow us to produce high-quality images for print reproduction. We provide evidence for the success of our approach with an informal evaluation with domain experts. [source]

Dermoscopy Identifies Histopathologically Indiscernible Malignant Lesion of Atypical Melanosis of the Foot, an Early Lesion of Acral Lentiginous Melanoma In Situ

DERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 7 2008
HSIU-HUI CHIU MD
First page of article [source]

Concomitant Use of a High-Energy Pulsed CO2 Laser and a Long-Pulsed (810 nm) Diode Laser for Squamous Cell Carcinoma in Situ

DERMATOLOGIC SURGERY, Issue 1 2002
Darrell J. Fader MD
First page of article [source]

A Novel Copper(I) Halide Framework Templated by Organic,Inorganic Hybrid Polyoxometalate Chains Formed In Situ: A New Route for the Design and Synthesis of Porous Frameworks

EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF INORGANIC CHEMISTRY, Issue 22 2006
Hua Jin
Abstract A 1D organic,inorganic hybrid polyoxometalate chain has been used as a non-coordinating anionic template for the construction of a novel 3D copper halide 4,4,-bipy framework, namely [Cu3ICl(4,4,-bipy)4][CuII(1,10-phen)2Mo8O26]. X-ray diffraction experiments revealed that the title compound consists of chloride-bridged trinuclear CuI units linked by neutral organic 4,4,-bipy groups into a 3D framework with hexagon-like channels in which 1D organic,inorganic hybrid polyoxometalate chains reside. This is the first example of a 1D organic,inorganic hybrid polyoxometalate chain functioning as a novel anionic template for the construction of a 3D framework. (© Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2006) [source]

Structural Evolution and Copper-Ion Release Behavior of Cu-pHEMA Hybrids Synthesized In Situ,

ADVANCED ENGINEERING MATERIALS, Issue 11 2009
Yen-Yu Liu
Abstract A novel Cu-pHEMA hybrid was successfully prepared by in situ photopolymerization of 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) monomer in the presence of Cu(II) copper ions, following an in situ chemical reduction. Experimental observations indicate that intermolecular interactions such as the coupling force and hydrogen bonding between the Cu and the hydroxyl groups further stabilize the hybrid structure to a considerable extent. Localization of the metallic copper particles within the pHEMA network structure as a result of those intermolecular interactions gives rise to the formation of discretely distributed nanocrystallites with particle sizes ranging from 5 to 25,nm in diameter. A crystallographic change of the Cu nanophase from an amorphous-like to a crystalline structure is observed as the H2O:HEMA molar ratio increases, upon synthesis, accompanied with an increase in the particle size. A relatively slow and sustained release of the Cu (in the form of cupric ions) from the hybrids was measured for a time period of about 10 days, which also illustrates a Cu(II)-induced proliferation of the endothelial cells over a relatively small range of release rate of the Cu from the hybrids. Such a new type of Cu-loaded hybrid hydrogel is expected to be compatible and may be considered as a candidate biomaterial for biomedical/therapeutic uses. [source]

In Situ and Ex Situ Nanomechanical Analysis of Reactive Nanolayer Solder Joints,

ADVANCED ENGINEERING MATERIALS, Issue 8 2009
Michael Tong
The nanomechanical behavior of NiAl derived from explosively RNLs in reactive solder joints is studied using in situ nanocompression and nanoindentation. We report the direct analysis of <011> slip and discuss the role it plays in the much disputed ductility of NiAl. The hardness, modulus, and residual stress in the NiAl layer are studied by load-displacement curve analysis. [source]

Discrete versus In Situ -Generated Aluminum-Salen Catalysts in Enantioselective Cyanosilylation of Ketones: Role of Achiral Ligands

ADVANCED SYNTHESIS & CATALYSIS (PREVIOUSLY: JOURNAL FUER PRAKTISCHE CHEMIE), Issue 5 2008
Ali Alaaeddine
Abstract The monometallic species {Salen}AlX (X=Me, 2a,b; X=Cl, 4a,b; O- i- Pr, 5a,b) and open bimetallic species {Salen}[AlMe2]2 (3a,b) that result from binary combinations between an aluminum precursor [trimethylaluminum, dimethylaluminum chloride, aluminum tris(isopropoxide)] and a diprotio {Salen}H2 pro-ligand 1a,b (a=1R,2R -cyclohexyl-salen; b=1R,2R -diphenylethylene-salen) have been isolated. The crystal structures of 3b, 4b and of ,-oxo species [{diphenylethylene-salen}Al]2O (6b) are reported. The discrete species 2,5a,b have been individually evaluated in the asymmetric cyanosilylation of acetophenone. It is shown that, in several cases, these discrete catalysts display dramatically different performances than the catalyst systems in situ -generated from the binary combinations. The influence of the achiral ligand X on both the enantioselectivity and activity of the cyanosilylation reaction has been investigated, resulting in the definition of a highly active and productive hexafluoro-2-propoxide-based catalyst for a variety of aryl alkyl ketones (TON up to 470, TOF up to 140,h,1 at ,20,°C for acetophenone). [source]

Free Right Internal Thoracic Artery in a "Horseshoe" Configuration: A New Technical Approach for "In Situ" Conduit Lengthening

JOURNAL OF CARDIAC SURGERY, Issue 6 2005
Jacob Zeitani M.D.
We present a method to revascularize the left antero-lateral myocardial wall using the right internal thoracic artery as a "free graft" anastomosed side to end to the "in situ" left internal thoracic artery, in a "horseshoe" fashion. The two ends of the "free graft" were anastomosed to the left anterior descending coronary artery and the second obtuse marginal branch, respectively. This method was successfully used in a 74-year-old patient with severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. [source]

Impaired Mitochondrial Function Results in Increased Tissue Transglutaminase Activity In Situ

JOURNAL OF NEUROCHEMISTRY, Issue 5 2000
Mathieu Lesort
Abstract: Tissue transglutaminase (tTG) is a transamidating enzyme that is elevated in Huntington's disease (HD) brain and may be involved in the etiology of the disease. Further, there is evidence of impaired mitochondrial function in HD. Therefore, in this study, we examined the effects of mitochondrial dysfunction on the transamidating activity of tTG. Neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells stably overexpressing human tTG or mutated inactive tTG were treated with 3-nitropropionic acid (3-NP), an irreversible inhibitor of succinate dehydrogenase. 3-NP treatment of tTG-expressing cells resulted in a significant increase of TG activity in situ. In vitro measurements demonstrated that 3-NP had no direct effect on tTG activity. However, 3-NP treatment resulted in a significant decrease of the levels of GTP and ATP, two potent inhibitors of the transamidating activity of tTG. No significant changes in the intracellular levels of calcium were observed in 3-NP-treated cells. Treatment with 3-NP in combination with antioxidants significantly reduced the 3-NP-induced increase in in situ TG activity, demonstrating that oxidative stress is a contributing factor to the increase of TG activity. This study demonstrates for the first time that impairment of mitochondrial function significantly increases TG activity in situ, a finding that may have important relevance to the etiology of HD. [source]

Mirror Constant for Tyranno® Silicon-Titanium-Carbon-Oxygen Fibers Measured in Situ in a Three-Dimensional Woven Silicon Carbide/Silicon Carbide Composite

JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN CERAMIC SOCIETY, Issue 3 2002
Ian J. Davies
The strength, S, of ceramic and glass fibers often can be estimated from fractographic investigation using the fracture mirror radius, rm, and the relationship S=Am/(rm)1/2, where Amis the "mirror constant." The present work estimates the value of Amfor Tyranno® Si-Ti-C-O fibers in situ in a three-dimensional woven SiC/SiC-based composite to be 2.50 ± 0.09 MPa·m1/2. This value is within the range of 2,2.51 MPa·m1/2 previously obtained for nominally similar Nicalon® Si-C-O fibers. [source]

Second Harmonic Generation Spectroscopy as a Method for In Situ and Online Characterization of Particle Surface Properties

PARTICLE & PARTICLE SYSTEMS CHARACTERIZATION, Issue 5 2006
Lars Schneider
Abstract Non-linear optical spectroscopy is a recently established technique used in the investigation of the properties of colloidal interfaces. Since it is an optical method it is non-invasive, can be applied in situ, and can provide real time resolution. Until recently, only a few papers concerning this method have been published, but these all show the great potential and the large field of applications of the technique. This paper gives an overview of the fundamentals of the technique and its possible applications. [source]

IDENTIFICATION OF MOLECULAR MARKERS IN DCIS RECURRENCE

PATHOLOGY INTERNATIONAL, Issue 12 2001
Provenzano E
Background: DCIS represents preinvasive malignant change. With screening mammography DCIS has become a common entity. Its natural history is poorly understood and treatment remains controversial. Using a retrospective population based cohort, we have identified histological and molecular variables predictive of recurrence. Methods: All cases of DCIS reported in Victoria between 1988 and 1992 were entered into the Victorian Cancer Registry. In Situ and Small Cancer Register (ISSIBCR) and followed up annually regarding treatment, the event of recurrence and its nature and location. From this register a cohort of 66 DCIS lesions with subsequent recurrence as in situ or invasive disease were studied histologically, immunohistochemically and with CGH-based genetic analyses comparing them to a nested randomized control group of DCIS without recurrence matched for patient age and year of diagnosis. Recurrences have been analysed by the same techniques to compare them to the primary lesion. Results: 13 histological features were evaluated and lesion size, nuclear pleomorphism, cellular polarity, micropapillary architecture and central necrosis were all significant predictors of recurrence (p < 0.05). Immunohistochemistry showed p21 overexpression, bcl2 negativity and ERBB2 positivity to be markers of recurrence. In the case of ERBB2, positivity was a predictor of recurrence even when its overexpression was focal. Primary and recurrent DCIS lesions had similar morphological appearances, and grade of primary DCIS correlated with grade of subsequent invasive cancer. This morphological similarity was paralleled by similar protein expression and genomic changes in both in situ and invasive recurrences. Conclusion: We have identified histological and immunohistochemical markers of recurrence in DCIS, and shown similarities in morphology, protein expression and genetic changes between primary DCIS and its recurrence. [source]

Lead in soil by field-portable x-ray fluorescence spectrometry,an examination of paired In Situ and laboratory ICP-AES results

REMEDIATION, Issue 3 2008
David A. Binstock
A major aspect of lead hazard control is the evaluation of soil lead hazards around housing coated with lead-based paint. The use of field-portable X-ray fluorescence (FPXRF) to do detailed surveying, with limited laboratory confirmation, can provide lead measurements in soil (especially for planning abatement activities) in a far more cost-efficient and timely manner than laboratory analysis. To date, one obstacle to the acceptance of FPXRF as an approved method of measuring lead in soil has been a lack of correspondence between field and laboratory results. In order to minimize the differences between field and laboratory results, RTI International (RTI) has developed a new protocol for field drying and sieving soil samples for field measurement by FPXRF. To evaluate this new protocol, composite samples were collected in the field following both U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) guidelines and ASTM International (ASTM) protocols, measured after drying by FPXRF, and returned to the laboratory for confirmatory inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy (ICP-AES) analysis. Evaluation of study data from several diverse sites revealed no statistical difference between paired FPXRF and ICP-AES measurements using the new method. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. [source]

Prognostic Significance of Oncogenic Markers in Ductal Carcinoma In Situ of the Breast: A Clinicopathologic Study

THE BREAST JOURNAL, Issue 2 2009
Sevilay Altintas MD
Abstract:, Ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) is a heterogeneous malignant condition of the breast with an excellent prognosis. Until recently mastectomy was the standard treatment. As the results of the National Surgical Adjuvant Breast and Bowel Project-17 trial and the introduction of the Van Nuys Prognostic Index (VNPI) less radical therapies are used. Objectives are to identify clinicopathologic and biologic factors that may predict outcome. Cases of DCIS diagnosed in two Belgian University Centers were included. Paraffin-embedded material and Hematoxylin and Eosin stained slides of DCIS cases were reviewed and tumor size, margin width, nuclear grade, and comedo necrosis were assessed. Molecular markers (estrogen receptor, progesterone receptor, HER1-4, Ki67, and c-myc) were assayed immunohistochemically. Applied treatment strategies were correlated with the prospective use of the VNPI score. Kaplan,Meier survival plots were generated with log-rank significance and multiple regression analysis was carried out using Cox proportional hazards regression analysis; 159 patients were included with a median age of 54 years (range 29,78); 141 had DCIS and 18 DCIS with microinvasion. The median time of follow-up was 54 months (range 5,253). Twenty-three patients developed a recurrence (14.5%). The median time to recurrence was 46 months (range 5,253). Before the introduction of the VNPI, 37.5% of the DCIS patients showed a recurrence while thereafter 6.7% recurred (p < 0.005). Two recurrences occurred in the VNPI group I (7.1%); seven in the VNPI group II (8.5%) (median time to recurrence 66.3 months) and 14 in the VNPI group III (28.5%) (median time to recurrence 40.2 months) (disease-free survival [DFS]: p < 0.05). A Cox proportional hazards regression analysis indicated that tumor size, margin width, pathologic class, and age were independent predictors of recurrence, but none of the studied molecular markers showed this. Overexpression of HER4 in the presence of HER3 was found to be associated with a better DFS (p < 0.05). This study confirms the value of the VNPI score and questions the benefit of an aggressive approach in the low-risk DCIS lesions. Independent predictors for recurrence included size, margin width, pathologic class, and age, but none of the molecular markers were part of it. Overexpression of HER4 in the presence of HER3 was associated with a better DFS. [source]

BI-RADS MRI Enhancement Characteristics of Ductal Carcinoma In Situ

THE BREAST JOURNAL, Issue 6 2007
Eric L. Rosen MD
Abstract:, To identify the Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) enhancement characteristics of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). A retrospective review of consecutive patients who underwent breast MRI for newly diagnosed breast carcinoma prior to surgery was conducted. This yielded 381 lesions in 361 patients with pathologic confirmation of either DCIS alone, invasive carcinoma alone, or mixed invasive and in-situ disease. Presence or absence of a MRI lesion at the site of the documented carcinoma was recorded, and for all identified MRI lesions the Breast Imaging Reporting and Data System morphology patterns were recorded. MRI features of the different malignancy types were compared utilizing Fisher's exact tests; 64/381 (16.8%) lesions had DCIS, 101/381 (26.5%) had invasive carcinoma, and 216/381 (56.7%) had mixed invasive/in situ carcinoma. A MRI lesion corresponding to the known cancer was identified in 55/64 (85.9%) cases of DCIS, 98/101 (97.0%) cases of invasive carcinoma, and 212/216 (98.1%) cases of mixed invasive and in-situ carcinoma. For pure DCIS lesions, 38/64 (59.4%) exhibited nonmass-like enhancement (NMLE), 9/64 (14.1%) were masses, and 8/64 (12.5%) were a focus. For pure invasive carcinomas 79/101(78.2%) were masses, 16/101 (15.8%) were NMLE, and 3/101 (3.0%) were a focus. For mixed lesions 163/216 (75.5%) were masses, 44/216 (20.4%) demonstrated NMLE, and 5/216 (2.3%) were a focus. The most common NMLE patterns of pure DCIS were segmental distribution and clumped internal enhancement. Although there is overlap in the MRI morphology and enhancement pattern of in situ and invasive breast carcinoma, DCIS more frequently manifests as NMLE than does invasive carcinoma. [source]

Novel Clinical Trial Designs for Treatment of Ductal Carcinoma In Situ of the Breast with Trastuzumab (Herceptin)

THE BREAST JOURNAL, Issue 1 2007
Ricardo J. Gonzalez MD
Abstract:, Because ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) avidly expresses Her2/neu, the target of the monoclonal antibody trastuzumab, and because trastuzumab has been shown to be effective against invasive breast cancer, trastuzumab may be effective for reducing the tumor burden and abrogating or reversing the hypothesized transition from in situ to invasive disease in patients with DCIS. To test this hypothesis, a trial of neoadjuvant trastuzumab for DCIS has been opened at our institution. Because trastuzumab has been shown to act as a radiosensitizing agent for Her2/neu-overexpressing cancer and because there are currently no systemic treatments for estrogen-receptor-negative DCIS, it makes sense to investigate whether use of trastuzumab concurrently with postoperative radiation therapy improves local control of DCIS. The National Surgical Adjuvant Breast and Bowel Project (NSABP) is planning a trial to test this hypothesis. The risk of cardiac toxicity associated with the doses of trastuzumab planned for these trials (cumulative doses of 8 mg/kg for our trial and 14 mg/kg in the NSABP trial) is believed to be minimal, but the safety profile of these approaches will need to be closely monitored. [source]

Triad of Columnar Cell Alteration, Lobular Carcinoma in Situ, and Tubular Carcinoma of the Breast

THE BREAST JOURNAL, Issue 2 2005
Sunati Sahoo MD
Abstract: Columnar cell alteration in the breast encompasses a spectrum of pathologic changes ranging from simple columnar cell change to more complex columnar cell hyperplasia with and without atypia to in situ carcinoma, often with a micropapillary architecture. For reasons that remain unclear, the columnar cell lesions are associated with tubular carcinomas and lobular carcinoma in situ. Therefore it is important to be familiar with the spectrum of changes and the associated lesions, especially in breast core biopsies for further management., [source]

Lobular Carcinoma In Situ and Invasive Cancer: The Contralateral Breast Controversy

THE BREAST JOURNAL, Issue 5 2002
Kathryn A. Carolin MD
We determined if the risk of relapse is increased in patients with the concomitant diagnosis of lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS) and an invasive cancer, suggesting the need for a more aggressive surgical approach. A retrospective chart review was conducted from the University of Michigan's Cancer Registry of patients with LCIS and a simultaneous invasive cancer and patients with invasive cancer only diagnosed between 1981 and 1997. The two groups were compared statistically with the following variables: age at diagnosis, tumor stage, histopathologic type of cancer, type of surgery, first line of treatment, relapse status with dates, site of relapse, and vital status. Statistically significant differences were found in the distribution of age (mean p = 0.0484 and median p = 0.0216), and histopathologic type of cancer (p < 0.0001). No significant difference was noted in the overall survival between the two groups (p = 0.511). There was also a significant difference in the relapse-free survival curves between the groups (p = 0.032). The risk of relapse was almost double (1.92) for the cancer-only patients relative to patients with LCIS as a histologic component of cancer. There was no significant increase in contralateral or ipsilateral breast recurrence for patients with LCIS and an invasive cancer compared to an invasive cancer alone. This lends support to the use of breast conservation therapy for invasive cancer patients with a histologic component of LCIS. The significant difference in the types of cancer may support the theory of genetic progression of LCIS to cancer, but clearly further data are required to prove this hypothesis. [source]

The Diagnosis and Treatment of Ductal Carcinoma In Situ of the Breast

THE BREAST JOURNAL, Issue 2 2000
Eleanor E. R. Harris MD
Abstract: Ductal carcinoma in situ of the breast is the most favorable presentation of breast cancer; therefore appropriate local treatment is imperative. Intraductal carcinoma is being diagnosed more frequently with the increasing use of screening mammography. A number of pathologic features have been identified which are useful for classification and for prognostic information. In addition, the molecular pathology and its relationship to tumor behavior and prognosis is becoming more well understood. The role of axillary dissection has been examined in a number of series and is generally agreed to be unnecessary for this presentation of breast cancer, allowing many women to avoid the sequela of axillary surgery. This review discusses the use of breast conservation treatment and the evolving indications for excision alone in the treatment of ductal carcinoma in situ. The outcomes for breast conservation therapy from both randomized trials and institutional series have confirmed excellent survival rates. Salvage therapy for local recurrence is frequently successful, resulting in nearly equivalent survivals in women undergoing breast conservation therapy compared to mastectomy. In addition, intriguing but preliminary results from both breast cancer prevention studies and trials looking at the use of tamoxifen for intraductal cancer suggest a local control benefit in women using the drug. [source]

The Gap Junctional Protein Connexin(Cx)43 in Testicular Cancer: its Loss Marks Progession from Carcinoma In Situ to Invasive Germ Cell Tumour

ANATOMIA, HISTOLOGIA, EMBRYOLOGIA, Issue 2005
R. Brehm
Carcinoma-in-situ (CIS) of the testis is known to be the pre-invasive stage of most human germ cell tumours (seminoma and non-seminoma), but the mechanisms leading to an increased pubertal proliferation of CIS cells after a long latency and to progression of CIS to an invasive malignancy are still not known. Additionally, CIS and seminoma have also been reported in equine testis (Veeramachaneni and Sawyer, 1998). The gap junctional protein and tumour suppressor gene connexin(cx)43 represents the predominant cx in human, canine and rodent testis so far and it is expected to play a key role for the regulation of both proliferation and differentiation of germ cells (spermatogonia and spermatocytes), and its gene- and protein-expression pattern is typical for the pubertal terminal differentiation of somatic Sertoli cells. Using cDNA-microarray analysis, in-situ hybridization (ISH), RT-PCR from tissue homogenate and semi-quantitative RT-PCR from well defined microdissected tubules with normal spermatogenesis, CIS, intratubular seminoma (ISe) and from seminoma cells from invasive seminoma we found a downregulation of cx43 starting in intratubular CIS, leading to a complete loss in most invasive seminoma cells. This indicates that regulation of cx43 expression takes place at transcriptional level confirming and expanding earlier studies of protein expression (Brehm et al., 2002). This reduction of cx43-expression suggests that an early intratubular derangement in cx43-gene expression and disruption of inter-cellular communication between Sertoli cells and/or Sertoli cells and pre-invasive tumour cells via cx43-gap junctions may play a role in the proliferation of CIS cells and seminoma cells and in the progression phase of testicular seminoma development. References, Veeramachaneni, D. N., and H. R.Sawyer, 1998: Carcinoma in situ and seminoma in equine testis. APMIS 106, 183,185. Brehm R., A. Marks, R. Rey, S. Kliesch, M. Bergmann and K. Steger, 2002: Altered expression of connexins 26 and 43 in Sertoli cells in seminiferous tubules infiltrated with carcinoma-in-situ or seminoma. J. Pathol. 197, 647,653. [source]

BS14 UPDATE ON IN SITU PROLIFERATIONS OF THE BREAST

ANZ JOURNAL OF SURGERY, Issue 2007
G. C. Harris
This is a pathologist's view of in situ proliferations of the breast, particularly those other than DCIS. The increasing evidence for Lobular Carcinoma In Situ (LCIS) as a non-obligate precursor, at least in some instances, and the emerging entity of pleomorphic LCIS will be discussed. Columnar cell proliferations including Flat Epithelial Atypia will also be presented with particular emphasis on clinical significance and currently recommended management strategies. A short discussion of other "indeterminate" in situ proliferations will also be included. [source]

In Situ, Digital-Like, and Reagentless Discrimination of Label-Free SNPs of 90-mer Length with Easily Synthesized Electrochemical DNA Probes

CHEMBIOCHEM, Issue 18 2007
Reona Ikeda
Finding the mismatches. We have developed new electrochemical DNA probes for single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) detection that are based on hole transport through duplexes. The probes could be easily synthesized, and discriminated single-base-mismatched target DNAs from the corresponding fully matched ones. This assay system allows for the in situ detection of label-free SNPs of 90-mer length, and it satisfies the requirements for a user-friendly SNP sensor that is highly compatible with PCR on-chip technologies. [source]

MOCVD of YF3 and Y1,xErxF3 Thin Films from Precursors Synthesized In Situ,

CHEMICAL VAPOR DEPOSITION, Issue 6-7 2005
G. Condorelli
Abstract RE(hfac)3 precursors (RE = Y, Er and Hhfac=1,1,1,5,5,5-hexafluoroacetylacetonate) have been obtained in-situ in a metal-organic (MO) CVD reactor by vapor-solid reaction between Hhfac and powders of suitable mixtures of RE2O3 oxides. YF3 and Y1,xErxF3 (x , 0.2) ultra-thin films have been deposited over glass substrates under Ar/O2 environments. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) in-situ measurements have been used to identify the nature of the precursor species in the gas phase, as well as to investigate decomposition mechanisms which accompany the film growth. Deposition involves the breakdown of the metal,ligand bond, thus leading to free Hhfac ligands and fluorinated ketones. Films have been characterized by energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) microanalysis, grazing incidence X-ray diffraction (GIXRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and atomic force microscopy (AFM). [source]

Parking and Restarting a Molecular Shuttle In Situ

CHEMISTRY - A EUROPEAN JOURNAL, Issue 9 2008
Nai-Chia Chen
Abstract Herein we report an easy-to-synthesize [2]rotaxane, which incorporates two ionic monopyridinium stations and one 2,2,-bipyridine station as the shaft of the dumbbell-shaped component and a bis- p -xylyl[26]crown-6 (BPX26C6) unit as the macrocyclic component. In this molecular shuttle, the BPX26C6 unit can be docked selectively on either the central 2,2,-bipyridine station or one of the two terminal pyridinium stations, and subsequently, returned to its shuttling molecular motion through the in situ addition of simple reagents (acid/base or metal ion/metal-ion-complexing ligand pairs). [source]

Active Metal Electrode,Oxide Interface in Gas Sensor Operation Probed by In Situ and Time-Resolved X-Ray Spectroscopy

CHEMPHYSCHEM, Issue 1 2010
Aleksander Gurlo Dr.
The feasibility of the in situ and operando methodology in studying the chemical and electronic phenomena associated with an active metal electrode,oxide interface in metal-oxide-based gas sensors (picture) is demonstrated. It is experimentally verified that the Pt electrodes in metal-oxide based gas sensors are partially oxidised and that the oxidised Pt electrodes contribute to overall sensing performance. [source]

Strategies for Successful Marine Conservation: Integrating Socioeconomic, Political, and Scientific Factors

CONSERVATION BIOLOGY, Issue 6 2005
CAROLYN J. LUNDQUIST
áreas marinas protegidas; planificación de conservación; reservas marinas Abstract:,As the process of marine-protected-area design and implementation evolves, the incorporation of new tools will advance our ability to create and maintain effective protected areas. We reviewed characteristics and approaches that contribute to successful global marine conservation efforts. One successful characteristic emphasized in most case studies is the importance of incorporating stakeholders at all phases of the process. Clearly defined goals and objectives at all stages of the design process are important for improved communication and standardized expectations of stakeholder groups. The inclusion of available science to guide the size and design of marine protected areas and to guide clear monitoring strategies that assess success at scientific, social, and economic levels is also an important tool in the process. Common shortcomings in marine conservation planning strategies include government instability and resultant limitations to monitoring and enforcement, particularly in developing nations. Transferring knowledge to local community members has also presented challenges in areas where in situ training, local capacity, and existing infrastructure are sparse. Inaccessible, unavailable, or outdated science is often a limitation to conservation projects in developed and developing nations. To develop and maintain successful marine protected areas, it is necessary to acknowledge that each case is unique, to apply tools and lessons learned from other marine protected areas, and to maintain flexibility to adjust to the individual circumstances of the case at hand. Resumen:,A medida que evoluciona el proceso de diseño e implementación de áreas marinas protegidas, la incorporación de nuevas herramientas mejorará nuestra habilidad para crear y mantener áreas protegidas efectivas. Revisamos las características y enfoques que contribuyen a los esfuerzos exitosos de conservación marina global. La importancia de incorporar a los actores en todas las fases del proceso es una característica exitosa enfatizada en la mayoría de los estudios de caso. Es importante que haya metas y objetivos claramente definidos para todas las etapas del proceso de diseño para mejorar la comunicación y estandarizar las expectativas de los grupos interesados. La inclusión de la ciencia disponible para guiar el tamaño y diseño de áreas marinas protegidas y para guiar las estrategias de monitoreo que evalúa el éxito a nivel científico, social y económico también son herramientas importantes en el proceso. Defectos comunes en las estrategias de planificación de conservación marina incluyen la inestabilidad gubernamental y las resultantes limitaciones para el monitoreo y vigilancia, particularmente en países en desarrollo. La transferencia de conocimiento a miembros de la comunidad local también ha enfrentado retos en áreas donde el entrenamiento in situ, la aptitud local y la infraestructura existente son escasos. La ciencia inaccesible, no disponible u obsoleta a menudo es una limitación para los proyectos de conservación en países desarrollados y en desarrollo. Para desarrollar y mantener áreas marinas protegidas exitosas, es necesario reconocer que cada caso es único, aplicar herramientas y lecciones aprendidas en otras áreas marinas protegidas y mantener la flexibilidad para ajustarse a las circunstancias individuales de cada caso. [source]

The Cost Efficiency of Wild Dog Conservation in South Africa

CONSERVATION BIOLOGY, Issue 4 2005
P. A. LINDSEY
crianza de especies cinegéticas; financiamiento de donantes; Lycaon pictus; metapoblación; reintroducción Abstract:,Aside from Kruger National Park, no other suitable reserves of sufficient size exist in South Africa that will hold a viable population of wild dogs (Lycaon pictus). Consequently, conservation efforts have been focused on creating a metapopulation through a series of wild dog reintroductions into isolated fenced reserves. Additional potential exists for conserving wild dogs on private ranch land. Establishing the metapopulation was an expensive process, accounting for approximately 75% of the US$380,000 spent on wild dog conservation in South Africa during 1997-2001. The principal goal of the metapopulation project was to reduce the risk of catastrophic population decline. Now that this has been achieved, we developed a uniform cost-efficiency index to estimate the cost efficiency of current and potential future conservation strategies in South Africa. Conserving wild dogs in large protected areas was predicted to be the most cost-efficient conservation strategy (449 packs/$100,000 expenditure). Establishing the metapopulation has been less cost efficient (23 packs/$100,000), and expansion of the metapopulation was predicted to be even less cost efficient if predation by wild dogs results in additional costs, as is to be expected if private reserves are used for reintroductions (3-13 packs/$100,000). Because of low logistical costs, conserving wild dogs in situ on private ranch land was potentially more cost efficient than reintroducing wild dogs (14-27 packs/$100,000). We recommend that donor funding be used to reintroduce wild dogs into transfrontier parks, when they are established, to maintain the existing metapopulation and to establish conservation programs involving wild dogs on private ranch land. Investing in the expansion of the metapopulation should be limited to state-owned nature reserves willing to carry predation costs without compensation. Resumen:,Además del Parque Nacional Kruger, en África del Sur no existen otras reservas de suficiente tamaño como para mantener una población viable de perros salvajes (Lycaon pictus). En consecuencia, los esfuerzos de conservación se han enfocado en la creación de una metapoblación por medio de una serie de reintroducciones en pequeñas reservas cercadas. Hay un potencial adicional para la conservación de perros salvajes en terrenos privados. El establecimiento de la metapoblación fue un proceso costoso, ,75% de US $380,000 que fueron gastados en la conservación de perros salvajes entre 1997 y 2001 en África del Sur. La meta principal del proyecto de metapoblación fue la reducción del riesgo de una declinación catastrófica de la población. Ya que esto se ha logrado, desarrollamos un índice de rentabilidad uniforme para estimar la rentabilidad de las actuales y potenciales estrategias de conservación en África del Sur. Se predijo que la estrategia de conservación de más rentable (449manadas/$100,000 de gasto) era la conservación de perros salvajes en áreas protegidas grandes. El establecimiento de la metapoblación ha sido menos rentable (23 manadas/$100,000), y se predijo que la expansión de la metapoblación sería aun menos rentable si la depredación por perros salvajes resulta en costos adicionales, como se esperaría si se utilizan reservas privadas para las reintroducciones (3-13 manadas/$100,000). Debido a los bajos costos de logística, la conservación de perros salvajes in situ en terrenos privados fue potencialmente más rentable que reintroducir a los perros salvajes (14-27 manadas/$100,000). Recomendamos que el financiamiento de donantes sea utilizado para reintroducir perros salvajes en parque transfronterizos, cuando sean establecidos, para mantener a la metapoblación existente y para establecer programas de conservación que involucren a perros salvajes en terrenos privados. La inversión en la expansión de la metapoblación deberá limitarse a reservas naturales propiedad del estado que estén dispuestas a absorber los costos de la depredación sin ser compensadas. [source]

Force,frequency and force,length properties in skeletal muscle following unilateral focal ischaemic insult in a rat model

ACTA PHYSIOLOGICA, Issue 3 2009
G. N. Dormer
Abstract Aim:, Our purpose was to quantify skeletal muscle properties following unilateral focal ischaemic insult (stroke) in a rat model. Methods:, Male rats were divided into two groups: stroke and 2 weeks recovery (n = 8) and control group (n = 7). Stroke was induced in the area of the motor neocortex containing hind limb corticospinal neurones. Contractile properties of the medial gastrocnemius muscle were measured in situ in both limbs. Force,length and force,frequency properties were measured before and 35 min after 5 min fatiguing stimulation. Results:, Stroke resulted in bilateral tetanic fade during 200 Hz stimulation. When normalized to 100 Hz contractions, force at 200 Hz was 95.4 ± 0.9% for the paretic muscles, 96.7 ± 1.7% for non-paretic muscles and 102.2 ± 1.0% for muscles of control rats (P = 0.006). Prior to fatiguing contractions, there was no difference in the length dependence of force. During repetitive contractions, active force fell significantly to 19 ± 4 and 25 ± 5% of initial force in paretic and non-paretic muscles of animals with a stroke respectively. In control animals active force fell to 37 ± 5%. During repetitive contractions, fusion index increased in muscles of stroke animals to 1.0 ± 0 but in control animals it was 0.95 ± 0.02. There was selective force depression at short lengths for fatigued paretic muscle (significant difference at muscle lengths less than reference length ,2 mm). Conclusion:, The tetanic fade at high stimulation frequencies indicates that there may be activation failure following focal ischaemic insult. The greater magnitude of fatigue and selective depression at short lengths following repetitive contractions should be investigated further. [source]