bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Postmortem analysis following 71 months of deep brain stimulation of the subthalamic nucleus for Parkinson disease
Authors: Sun David A. , Yu Hong , Spooner John , Tatsas Armanda D. , Davis Thomas , Abel Ty W. , Kao Chris , Konrad Peter E.
Published: July 2008

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the subthalamic nucleus (STN) is a clinically effective neurosurgical treatment for Parkinson disease. Tissue reaction to chronic DBS therapy and the definitive location of active stimulation contacts are best studied on a postmortem basis in patients who have undergone DBS. The authors report the postmortem analysis of STN DBS following 5 years and 11 months of effective chronic stimulation including the histologically verified location of the active contacts associated with bilateral implants. They also describe tissue response to intraoperative test passes with recording microelectrodes and stimulating semimacroelectrodes. The results indicated that 1) the neural tissue surrounding active and nonactive contacts responds similarly, with a thin glial capsule and foreign-body giant cell reaction surrounding the leads as well as piloid gliosis, hemosiderin-laden macrophages, scattered lymphocytes, and Rosenthal fibers; 2) there was evidence of separate tracts in the adjacent tissue for intraoperative microelectrode and semimacroelectrode passes together with reactive gliosis, microcystic degeneration, and scattered hemosiderin deposition; and 3) the active contacts used for ~ 6 years of effective bilateral DBS therapy lie in the zona incerta, just dorsal to the rostral STN. To the authors' knowledge, the period of STN DBS therapy herein described for Parkinson disease and subjected to postmortem analysis is the longest to date.
Germ cell tumors in the basal ganglia: problems of early diagnosis and treatment
Authors: Sonoda Yukihiko , Kumabe Toshihiro , Sugiyama Shin-Ichiro , Kanamori Masayuki , Yamashita Yoji , Saito Ryuta , Ariga Hisanori , Takai Yoshihiro , Tominaga Teiji
Published: July 2008

Object

Intracranial germ cell tumors (GCTs) originating in the basal ganglia are rare. The authors investigated factors related to the diagnosis of these lesions as well as outcome in order to help decrease the time to diagnosis and improve treatment efficacy.

Methods

The authors reviewed the clinical features of 142 cases of intracranial GCT in their institute. Fourteen cases of basal ganglia GCT were identified. The symptoms, neuroimaging findings, delay between symptom onset and diagnosis or treatment, initial and further treatment, and outcome were investigated.

Results

Major symptoms were motor weakness and precocious puberty. Gadolinium-enhanced T1-weighted MR images showed enhancement in 8 of 11 patients examined, but only slight hyperintensity without enhancement in 2 patients. Ipsilateral peduncle and hemispheric atrophy were found in 3 and 4 patients, respectively. Cases of basal ganglia GCT were characterized by a longer delay from the initial neuroimaging examination to diagnosis compared with GCT in other regions. Five patients had aggravated hemiparesis in the extremities due to the delay in diagnosis. Despite good response to the initial therapy, 5 patients experienced recurrence; 2 of these 5 had malignant GCTs, and 3 had been treated only with chemotherapy or radiochemotherapy with insufficient radiation dose and field. Finally, the 2 patients with malignant GCTs died of the disease, and 1 died of aspiration pneumonia due to dissemination around the brainstem.

Conclusions

Early diagnosis requires MR imaging with administration of contrast medium in young patients presenting with motor weakness and/or precocious puberty. Serial neuroimaging studies should be performed if any tiny lesion is detected in the basal ganglia. Since insufficient treatment resulted in early recurrence, radiation therapy with adequate dose and field is essential.
Vascular and apoptotic changes in the placode of myelomeningocele mice during the final stages of in utero development
Authors: Reis Joaquim L. , Correia-Pinto Jorge , Monteiro Mariana P. , Costa Madalena , Hutchins Grover M.
Published: July 2008

Object

Myelomeningocele (MMC) is a primary neurulation defect that is associated with devastating neurological disabilities in affected newborns. To better characterize the in utero neurodegenerative process of MMC, the authors investigated the changes in vascular organization, apoptosis, and the presence of inflammatory cells during gestation by using a mutant mouse model of MMC.

Methods

The curly tail/loop tail (ct/lp) mutant mouse model of MMC was chosen to obtain fetuses at different stages of gestation. Mouse fetuses harboring MMC were harvested by caesarean section at embryonic Days 14.5, 16.5, and 18.5 (complete mouse gestation at 19 days, 6 mice/group); littermate fetuses with the same gestational age but without an MMC were used as controls. Samples of the MMC placode or normal spinal cord were stained for immunocytochemical labeling with caveolin antibody (endothelium marker) and activated caspase-3 antibody (apoptosis marker). Samples were morphometrically analyzed with a computer-assisted image analyzer.

Results

The MMC mice presented with an increase in vascular density from embryonic Days 16.5–18.5 and an enhanced number of apoptotic cells at embryonic Day 18.5, compared with controls. There were scarce signals of an inflammatory reaction in the MMC placode, as a few infiltrating neutrophils were seen only at embryonic Day 18.5.

Conclusions

Fetal placodes in MMC mice showed evidence of increased vascular density since embryonic Day 16.5 and increased apoptosis at embryonic Day 18.5. These new data support the view that in utero changes of the MMC placode, occurring during the last stages of gestation, contribute to the neuropathological manifestations in full-term newborns with MMC.
Catalytic Deprotonative Functionalization of Propargyl Silyl Ethers with Imines
Authors: Naka Hiroshi , Koseki Daiki , Kondo Yoshinori
Published: July 2008

A metal‐free, catalytic CH functionalization of propargyl silyl ethers with imines using the phosphazene base (t‐Bu‐P4base) provides structurally defined multisubstituted pyrroles in modest to excellent yields under mild conditions. A one‐pot, three‐component reaction using silylated acetylenes, aldehydes, and imines is also presented.
Bismaleimides, bisnadimides, and polyaspartimides containing ether and ester linkages and pyridine
Authors: Amutha N. , Sarojadevi M.
Published: July 2008

A series of bismaleimides (BMI) and bisnadimides (BNI) containing pyridine ring and flexible linkages were prepared and the structural characterization of the resins was carried out by elemental analysis, FTIR, 1H NMR, and 13C NMR spectroscopy. Their curing behavior were characterized by differential scanning calorimetry and thermal stability of the cured resins were investigated by thermogravimetric analysis. In addition, a series of polyaspartimides were prepared by the polyaddition of the bismalemide with various dimaines. The polymers were characterized by FT‐IR, inherent viscosity, and molecular weight measurements. All the polyimides were soluble in many organic solvents, the glass transition temperature of the polyaspartimides are in the range of 194–231°C, 10% weight loss (T10) takes place in the temperature range of 379–482°C in N2 and char yield in the range of 44.31–53.31%. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Identifying clusters of user behavior in intranet search engine log files
Authors: Stenmark Dick
Published: July 2008

When studying how ordinary Web users interact with Web search engines, researchers tend to either treat the users as a homogeneous group or group them according to search experience. Neither approach is sufficient, we argue, to capture the variety in behavior that is known to exist among searchers. By applying automatic clustering technique based on self‐organizing maps to search engine log files from a corporate intranet, we show that users can be usefully separated into distinguishable segments based on their actual search behavior. Based on these segments, future tools for information seeking and retrieval can be targeted to specific segments rather than just made to fit the “the average user.” The exact number of clusters, and to some extent their characteristics, can be expected to vary between intranets, but our results indicate that some more generic groups may exist. In our study, a large group of users appeared to be “fact seekers” who would benefit from higher precision, a smaller group of users were more holistically oriented and would likely benefit from higher recall, and a third category of users seemed to constitute the knowledgeable users. These three groups may raise different design implications for search‐tool developers.
Carbimazole embryopathy‐bilateral choanal atresia and patent vitello‐intestinal duct: A case report and review of literature
Authors: Kannan Lakshminarayanan , Mishra Satish , Agarwal Ramesh , Kartikeyan Venkat , Gupta Neerja , Kabra Madhulika
Published: July 2008

BACKGROUND: In utero exposure to carbimazole for maternal hyperthyroidism has been reported to cause choanal atresia. There are case reports of patent vitello‐intestinal duct and Meckel's diverticulum in similar association. CASE: We report another such instance of an infant who was exposed to carbimazole in utero, presenting with bilateral choanal atresia and patent vitello‐intestinal duct. CONCLUSIONS: As there seems to be no reports of a possible association between propylthiouracil and congenital malformations, it may be safer to use propylthiouracil instead of carbimazole. Birth Defects Research (Part A), 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Tetramethylcyclopropyl analogue of the leading antiepileptic drug, valproic acid: Evaluation of the teratogenic effects of its amide derivatives in NMRI mice
Authors: Okada Akinobu , Onishi Yuko , Yagen Boris , Shimshoni Jakob Avi , Kaufmann Dan , Bialer Meir , Fujiwara Michio
Published: July 2008

BACKGROUND: Although valproic acid (VPA) is used extensively for treating various kinds of epilepsy, it causes hepatotoxicity and teratogenicity. In an attempt to develop a more potent and safer second generation to VPA drug, the amide derivatives of the tetramethylcyclopropyl VPA analogue, 2,2,3,3‐tetramethylcyclopropanecarboxamide (TMCD), N‐methyl‐TMCD (MTMCD), 4‐(2,2,3,3‐tetramethylcyclopropanecarboxamide)‐benzenesulfonamide (TMCD‐benzenesulfonamide), and 5‐(TMCD)‐1,3,4‐thiadiazole‐2‐sulfonamide (TMCD‐thiadiazolesulfonamide) were synthesized and shown to have more potent anticonvulsant activity than VPA. Teratogenic effects of these CNS‐active compounds were evaluated in Naval Medical Research Institute (NMRI) mice susceptible to VPA‐induced teratogenicity by comparing them to those of VPA. METHODS: Pregnant NMRI mice were given a single sc injection of either VPA or TMC‐amide derivatives on gestation day 8.5, and then the live fetuses were examined to detect any external malformations on gestation day 18. After double‐staining for bone and cartilage, their skeletons were examined. RESULTS: In contrast to VPA, which induced NTDs in a high number of fetuses at 2.4–4.8 mmol/kg, TMCD, TMCD‐benzenesulfonamide, and TMCD‐thiadiazolesulfonamide at 4.8 mmol/kg and MTMCD at 3.6 mmol/kg did not induce a significant number of NTDs. TMCD‐thiadiazolesulfonamide exhibited a potential to induce limb defects in fetuses. Skeletal examination also revealed that fetuses exposed to all four of the tetramethylcyclopropanecarboxamide derivatives developed vertebral and rib abnormalities less frequently than those exposed to VPA. Our results established that TMCD, MTMCD, and TMCD‐benzenesulfonamide are distinctly less teratogenic than VPA in NMRI mice. CONCLUSIONS: The CNS‐active amides containing a tetramethylcyclopropanecarbonyl moiety demonstrated better anticonvulsant potency compared to VPA and a lack of teratogenicity, which makes these compounds good second‐generation VPA antiepileptic drug candidates. Birth Defects Research (Part A), 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Bridging Excel and C/C++ code
Authors: Punuru Janardhana R. , Knopf F. Carl
Published: July 2008

Microsoft Excel provides a flexible pre‐ and post‐processor for low‐level languages such as C/C++. Here details are provided to allow single variables, vectors and matrices to pass from Excel ↔ VBA ↔ C/C++ programs. Passing single variables and vectors is straightforward. Passing matrices requires understanding of row‐major and column‐major storage strategies. Simple examples utilizing each data type are shown. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Comput Appl Eng Educ 16: 289–304, 2008; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com); DOI 10.1002/cae20146
Ethical challenges in conducting research with hard to reach families
Authors: Gorin Sarah , Hooper Carol‐Ann , Dyson Claire , Cabral Christie
Published: July 2008

This paper reflects on some of the ethical challenges encountered by the authors whilst undertaking sensitive qualitative research with parents and children who are traditionally hard to reach. The research aimed to provide more holistic and in‐depth accounts of parenting on a low income in diverse social circumstances than already exist. The nature of the sample and the subject matter that was covered inevitably raised many familiar ethical dilemmas and some that are less often encountered in practice, particularly in relation to child protection. In this article we discuss our approach to ethics, some of the ethical challenges we encountered undertaking work with families and discuss the complexity of decision‐making around risk of harm to children. We conclude that a clear framework to avoid harm should be developed at the outset and a transparent approach to child protection issues should be used. Additional time and resources need to be incorporated at the planning stage of similar projects in order to develop appropriate methods, ensure effective decision‐making and support researchers. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cleveland 20 years on: what have we learned about intervening in child sexual abuse?
Authors: Bacon Heather
Published: July 2008

This is the first of two linked papers. It examines the main changes in approach to child sexual abuse that have occurred since the events in Cleveland 20 years ago. Comparison between estimated prevalence rates and registrations for sexual abuse suggests that we are aware of only the tip of the iceberg. It is argued that in many cases uncertainty may have to be accepted, and that protection may be better achieved through a protective parent than through the child protection system. Clinical examples of cases presenting to a specialist child and adolescent mental health service are given. It is argued that, although society is now more willing to recognise the existence of child sexual abuse and professionals are better at dealing with families, outcomes for this group of children are not much improved. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Cleveland 20 years on: themes of disruption and repair in the trauma narratives of children, adults and society
Authors: Richardson Sue
Published: July 2008

This is the second of two linked papers which explores coherent and incoherent narratives emerging from Cleveland. It draws a parallel between the disrupted narratives of child and adult survivors of child sexual abuse and professional and societal narratives of Cleveland. The paper looks at the therapeutic task of individual repair using attachment‐based therapy, illustrated by clinical examples. It identifies five key challenges relevant to repair in the interpersonal, intra‐personal and societal domains. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A current overview of consumer neuroscience
Authors: Hubert Mirja , Kenning Peter
Published: July 2008

The emerging discipline of neuroeconomics employs methods originally used in brain research for investigating economic problems, and furthers the advance of integrating neuroscientific findings into the economic sciences. Neuromarketing or consumer neuroscience is a sub‐area of neuroeconomics that addresses marketing relevant problems with methods and insights from brain research. With the help of advanced techniques of neurology, which are applied in the field of consumer neuroscience, a more direct view into the “black box” of the organism should be feasible. Consumer neuroscience, still in its infancy, should not be seen as a challenge to traditional consumer research, but constitutes a complementing advancement for further investigation of specific decision‐making behavior.

The key contribution of this paper is to suggest a distinct definition of consumer neuroscience as the scientific proceeding, and neuromarketing as the application of these findings within the scope of managerial practice. Furthermore, we aim to develop a foundational understanding of the field, moving away from the derisory assumption that consumer neuroscience is about locating the “buy button” in the brain. Against this background the goal of this paper is to present specific results of selected studies from this emerging discipline, classified according to traditional marketing‐mix instruments such as product, price, communication, and distribution policies, as well as brand research. The paper is completed by an overview of the most prominent brain structures relevant for consumer neuroscience, and a discussion of possible implications of these insights for economic theory and practice.

Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
What they see is what they get? An fMRI‐study on neural correlates of attractive packaging
Authors: Stoll Marco , Baecke Sebastian , Kenning Peter
Published: July 2008

There is evidence in neuroscience that the brain processes negative visual stimuli in a different manner than positive ones. Our study investigates, whether it is possible to transfer these findings to one specific, often‐neglected marketing stimulus, package design. For this purpose, we measured the brain activity of subjects while they had to make decisions about the attractiveness of certain fast moving consumer good packages. As predicted by consumer neuroscience, we found that attractive and unattractive packages are able to trigger different cortical activity changes. Contrasting attractive versus unattractive packages, revealed significant cortical activity changes in visual areas of the occipital lobe and the precuneus – regions associated with the processing of visual stimuli and attention. On the individual level, we found significant activity changes within regions of reward processing. On the other hand by contrasting unattractive versus attractive packages we found an increased activity in areas of the frontal lobe and insula cortex, regions often associated with processing aversive stimuli such as unfair offers or disgusting pictures. Although, these results are without any doubt preliminary they might explain why attractive packages gain more attention at the point‐of‐sale and this, in turn, positively influences turnovers of fast moving consumer goods.

Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Brain metastasis from renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Shuch Brian , La Rochelle Jeff C. , Klatte Tobias , Riggs Stephen B. , Liu Weiqing , Kabbinavar Fairooz F. , Pantuck Allan J. , Belldegrun Arie S.
Published: July 2008

BACKGROUND.

Patients with renal cell carcinoma brain metastases (RCCBM) are frequently excluded from trials and to the authors' knowledge no guidelines currently exist regarding central nervous system (CNS) surveillance or treatment. The objective of the current study was to assist in the creation of treatment guidelines.

METHODS.

Patients undergoing evaluation for RCCBM from 1989 to 2006 were identified. Their characteristics, symptoms, pathologic variables, number and size of RCCBM, CNS treatment, CNS recurrence, overall survival, and use of systemic therapy were reviewed.

RESULTS.

A total of 138 patients were identified with RCCBM, of whom 92% had clear cell RCC and 95% had synchronous extracranial metastases. CNS symptoms were noted in 67% of patients. Symptomatic CNS tumors were larger (2.1 cm vs 1.3 cm; P < .001) and more frequently required a craniotomy (P < .001). The median overall survival after a diagnosis of RCCBM was 10.7 months; the 1‐year, 2‐year, and 5‐year survival rates were 48%, 30%, and 12%, respectively. Median CNS recurrence was 9 months after RCCBM treatment. The initial number of tumors (>1 tumor) was found to be an independent predictor of CNS recurrence (hazards ratio of 3.72; P < .001). Those patients with 1 and >1 lesion had a median CNS recurrence‐free survival of 13 months and 4 months, respectively (P < .001). Patients receiving interleukin‐2 after CNS treatment had a response rate of 17%.

CONCLUSIONS.

Patients with metastatic RCC should undergo CNS screening to allow the identification of smaller lesions that are more amenable to treatment. Those patients with solitary RCCBM are less likely to develop CNS recurrence after local therapy. Selected patients with good performance status may exhibit prolonged survival and should be offered aggressive therapy. Cancer 2008. © 2008 American Cancer Society.
Genetic aberrations of gastrointestinal stromal tumors
Authors: Yang Jilong , Du Xiaoling , Lazar Alexander J. F. , Pollock Raphael , Hunt Kelly , Chen Kexin , Hao Xishan , Trent Jonathan , Zhang Wei
Published: July 2008

Gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) is the most common mesenchymal neoplasm in the gastrointestinal tract and is associated with mutations of the KIT or PDGFRA gene. In addition, other genetic events are believed to be involved in GIST tumorigenesis. Cytogenetic aberrations associated with these tumors thus far described include loss of 1p, 13q, 14q, or 15q, loss of heterozygosity of 22q, numeric chromosomal imbalances, and nuclear/mitochondrial microsatellite instability. Molecular genetic aberrations include loss of heterozygosity of p16(INK4A) and p14(ARF), methylation of p15(INK4B), homozygous loss of the Hox11L1 gene, and amplification of C‐MYC, MDM2, EGFR1, and CCND1. GISTs in patients with neurofibromatosis type 1 appear to lack the KIT and PDGFRA mutations characteristic of GISTs and may have a different pathogenetic mechanism. Gene mutations of KIT or PDGFRA are critical in GISTs, because the aberrant versions not only are correlated with the specific cell morphology, histologic phenotype, metastasis, and prognosis, but also are the targets of therapy with imatinib and other agents. Furthermore, specific mutations in KIT and PDGFR appear to lead to differential drug sensitivity and may in the future guide selection of tyrosine kinase inhibitors. Activation of the receptor tyrosine kinases involves a signal transduction pathway whose components (mitogen‐activated protein kinase, AKT, phosphoinositide 3‐kinase, mammalian target of rapamycin, and RAS) are also possible targets of inhibition. A new paradigm of classification, integrating the standard clinical and pathological criteria with molecular aberrations, may permit personalized prognosis and treatment. Cancer 2008. © 2008 American Cancer Society.
Sentinel lymph node biopsy as guidance for central neck dissection in patients with papillary thyroid carcinoma
Authors: Roh Jong‐Lyel , Park Chan II
Published: July 2008

BACKGROUND.

Occult lymph node metastasis of papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) can be detected by sentinel lymph node (SLN) biopsy, but studies in larger patient cohorts undergoing complete central neck dissection may be required to assess the diagnostic accuracy of SLN. Therefore, the authors prospectively assessed the usefulness of SLN biopsy for the detection of central lymph node metastasis in patients with differentiated PTC who had no suspicious cervical lymphadenopathy.

METHODS.

After peritumoral injection of methylene blue, SLN biopsy was performed in 50 patients with newly diagnosed PTC who had no palpable or ultrasound (US)‐detected lymph node involvement. After SLN biopsy, all patients underwent total thyroidectomy and central neck dissection. The diagnostic accuracy of intraoperative SLN sampling was calculated by comparison with the final pathologic diagnosis.

RESULTS.

SLNs were identified in 46 of 50 patients (92%); of these, 14 SLNs were positive and 32 SLNs were negative on intraoperative frozen sections. One patient had a positive SLN in the jugular region and subsequently underwent modified radical neck dissection. Final pathologic examination revealed that 18 patients (36%), including 4 who had negative SLNs, had central lymph node metastasis. Thus, the sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and positive and negative predictive values of SLN biopsy were 77.8%, 100%, 92%, 100%, and 88.9%, respectively. Temporary and permanent hypocalcemia developed in 19 patients and 1 patient, respectively. There were no direct complications of SLN sampling.

CONCLUSIONS.

SLN biopsy in patients with PTC without gross clinical or US lymph node involvement was able to detect occult metastasis with high accuracy and may have the potential to select patients who require central neck dissection. Cancer 2008. © 2008 American Cancer Society.
Randomized phase 2 study of subcutaneous amifostine versus epoetin‐α given 3 times weekly during concurrent chemotherapy and hyperfractionated radiotherapy for limited‐disease small cell lung cancer
Authors: Han Hye‐Suk , Han Ji‐Youn , Yu Sun Young , Pyo Hong Ryull , Kim Hyae Young , Cho Kwan Ho , Lee Dae Ho , Kim Heung Tae , Lee Jin Soo
Published: July 2008

BACKGROUND.

The purpose of the current study was to investigate the role of amifostine and epoetin‐α in reducing severe toxicities during concurrent chemo‐hyperfractionated radiotherapy (CCRT) for limited disease small cell lung cancer (LD‐SCLC).

METHODS.

Seventy‐six patients with LD‐SCLC were enrolled. The treatment schedule was consisted of two 28‐day cycles of cisplatin at a dose of 30 mg/m2 (Days 1 and 8) and irinotecan at a dose of 60 mg/m2 (Days 1, 8, and 15) followed by two 21‐day cycles of cisplatin at a dose of 60 mg/m2 (Day 1) and etoposide at a dose of 100 mg/m2 (Days 1‐3) with concurrent twice‐daily thoracic radiotherapy for a total of 45 grays. Patients were randomly assigned at registration to either amifostine at a dose of 500 mg or epoetin‐α at a dose of 10,000 IU subcutaneously 3 times weekly (n = 36 patients and 40 patients, respectively). Fifteen of 36 patients assigned to the amifostine arm did not receive amifostine because of a lack of supply.

RESULTS.

Amifostine treatment was associated with higher febrile neutropenia (P = .003) and grade 2 or 3 nausea (according to the National Cancer Institute Common Toxicity Criteria [version 3.0]) (P = .03). It also demonstrated a trend toward higher grade 4 leukopenia (P = .05). Grade 3 esophagitis was reported in 30% of patients treated with amifostine and 9% of patients treated with epoetin‐α (P = .059). Epoetin‐α treatment was associated with less grade 2 or 3 anemia (P = .031) and lower decreases in hemoglobin level during CCRT (P = .016). The median survival times for both treatment arms were comparable (22.6 months in the amifostine arm vs 25.6 months in the epoetin‐α arm; P = .447).

CONCLUSIONS.

Although amifostine administered 3 times weekly during CCRT did not significantly reduce severe toxicities, epoetin‐α was effective in preventing severe anemia during CCRT in patients with LD‐SCLC. Other radioprotective strategies to minimize severe toxicities should be investigated Cancer 2008. © 2008 American Cancer Society.
Characterizing the effect of seating arrangement on classroom learning using neural networks
Authors: Monterola C. , Roxas R. M. , Carreon‐Monterola S.
Published: July 2008

A teaching technique modified from Mazur's peer instruction method is implemented to probe the transmission of information in a class composed of interacting students [Mazur. Peer Instruction: A User's Manual; Prentice Hall: New Jersey, 1997; http://www.nip.upd.edu.ph/ipl/mem/homepages/cmonterola/index.html]. On the basis of actual experimentation, we demonstrate that a neural network is capable of accurately characterizing the performance of a class based on student seating location. For instance, when students with high aptitude level are situated at the outer four corners of a classroom, the collective performance of the class during student interaction opportunities fares better than in random, inner four, or middle arrangements. The method provides a quantifiable procedure for sectioning students if deliberate student–student interactions are incorporated in a lecture design. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Complexity, 2009.
Global biosecurity in a complex, dynamic world
Authors: Wilson Brenda A.
Published: July 2008

Biosecurity is emerging as a major global health priority for which innovative and unprecedented solutions are needed. Biosecurity is a challenging biocomplexity problem involving multifaceted processes such as interactions between humans and nonhuman biota, anthropogenic environmental and ecological factors, and socioeconomic and political pressures. Key to an effective biosecurity strategy will be fundamental understanding of evolutionary, anthropogenic and environmental driving forces at play in transmission and perpetuation of infectious diseases. Biosecurity solutions will depend on increased support of basic biomedical research and public education, enhanced healthcare preparedness, alternative strategies for ensuringsafety, and improved interagency cooperation regarding global health policy. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Complexity, 2008.
Analysis of the interaction between the retinal ON and OFF channels using CNN‐UM models
Authors: Wagner Róbert , Molnar Al , Werblin Frank S.
Published: July 2008

Quantitative retinal modeling is an important tool for analyzing the circuitry underlying the functional organization of the retina, and developing neuromorphic signal processing for retinal prostheses. The Cellular Neural Network (CNN) is a suitable tool for both purposes due to its structure. Using multilayer CNN models we analyzed two phenomena: First the signal distortion caused by nonlinear synapses and secondly the use of inhibitory interaction between ON and OFF channels. Our simulations show that the ON–OFF interaction can reduce the signal distortion caused by nonlinear synapses. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Novel CD19 expression in a peripheral T cell lymphoma: A flow cytometry case report with morphologic correlation
Authors: Rizzo Kathryn , Stetler‐Stevenson Maryalice , Wilson Wyndham , Yuan Constance M.
Published: July 2008

Background

Peripheral T‐cell lymphomas are uncommon lymphomas that show T‐cell antigenic loss and clonal T‐cell receptor (TCR) gene rearrangement. Rare cases of T‐cell lymphomas with aberrant expression of CD20 have been described. However, CD19 coexpression in a mature T‐cell neoplasm has not been reported.

Methods

Histology, immunohistochemistry (IHC), and PCR for TCR gene rearrangement were performed on an excised lymph node specimen and a subsequent fine needle aspiration (FNA) of an additional lymph node. Flow cytometry (FC) was performed on FNA and peripheral blood specimen.

Results

The lymph node's architecture was effaced by a diffuse atypical lymphoid proliferation that, by IHC, was positive for CD3, CD2, and CD43 and negative for CD4, CD5, CD8, TdT, CD1a, and B‐cell‐associated antigens PAX‐5, CD20, and CD79a. A clonal TCR gene rearrangement was detected. FC was performed on a subsequent FNA, and peripheral blood specimen demonstrated an aberrant T‐cell population with expression of CD2, CD3, CD27, TCR α/β, CD52, CD38, CD45, and CD26 (partial expression) and negative for CD4, CD5, CD7, CD8, CD10, CD30, and CD56. The aberrant T‐cell population also expressed bright CD19.

Conclusions

Using FC, we describe the first case of peripheral T‐cell lymphoma with aberrant coexpression of CD19. Published 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Quantitation of CD36 (platelet glycoprotein IV) expression on platelets and monocytes by flow cytometry: Application to the study of Plasmodium falciparum malaria
Authors: Cserti‐Gazdewich Christine M. , Dzik Walter H. , Dorn Michelle E. , Quagliaroli Robert O. , Xu Songyi , Ssewanyana Isaac , Nayyar Rakesh , Preffer Frederic I.
Published: July 2008

Background

The expression of CD36 (platelet glycoprotein IV) is variable among different individuals and cannot be determined by gene analysis. Previous studies suggest that CD36 expression plays a central role in the pathophysiology of Plasmodium falciparum malaria, a disease of global significance.

Methods

We developed a flow cytometric method to quantitatively measure CD36 on monocytes and platelets from whole blood using antibodies to CD36, CD14, and CD61 directly conjugated to different fluorochromes. Commercially available fluorescent beads were used to quantify CD36 expression.

Results

The assay was successfully run at three different centers. African‐Americans (n = 57), nonAfrican‐Americans (n = 33), individuals with and without hemoglobin S (n = 15 and n = 12), and children with P falciparum malaria (n = 97) were tested. Platelet‐monocyte aggregates, present to varying degrees in different anticoagulants, were eliminated from final analysis. The median fluorescence intensity (MFI) of CD36 among different subjects followed a log‐normal distribution. Among African‐Americans, 5% were CD36‐deficient (logMFI < 1.5; MFI < 32). Expression of platelet CD36 paralleled monocyte CD36.

Conclusions

Flow cytometry can be used to quantify the expression of CD36 of platelets and monocytes in EDTA whole blood. The assay will allow investigation of the relationship between CD36 and clinical outcome in malaria and other disease states. © 2008 Clinical Cytometry Society
Where can social learning be improved in international river basin management in Europe?
Authors: Borowski Ilke , Pahl‐Wostl Claudia
Published: July 2008

In recent years, collaborative planning and processes of social learning (SL) have gained increasingly in interest in river basin management. In this paper, we first summarize the prerequisites for SL to take place in collaborative management processes. These are openness, gains and incentives, and a perceived pressure to learn. We then study the European situation subsequent to the introduction of the European Water Framework Directive (2000/60/EC; WFD) as an example. Based on an analysis of policy documents, a case study of the Elbe river basin and an elaboration of concepts related to theories of international regimes, we conclude that the conditions for SL are often not met if management processes are highly formalised. Considering SL that is necessary for innovation and change, this can best be supported through the establishment of parallel “learning processes”, such as the Common Implementation Strategy that accompanies implementation of the WFD at European level. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.
Criteria for the assessment of processes for sustainable river basin management and their congruence with the EU Water Framework Directive
Authors: Hedelin Beatrice
Published: July 2008

In order to manage the increasing pressure on the world's water resources, new planning methodologies/processes for sustainable river basin management are currently being developed. For such processes to work well, however, the legal context must allow, or support, such processes. In this study, a set of criteria relating to methodologies/processes for sustainable water management is used to assess the EU Water Framework Directive (WFD). The study suggests that the WFD erects few formal barriers to good planning practices. However, planning processes will need to be adapted to compensate for the weak legal support in a number of important areas, namely the use of knowledge from beyond the natural sciences, the use of methodologies for the explicit handling of values and the use of procedures for democratic participation. In so doing the issues identified here provide a basis for systematic thinking about how to design the necessary planning processes. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.
Nickel Complexes and Cobalt Coordination Polymers with Organochalcogen (S, Se) Ligands Bearing an N‐Methylimidazole Moiety: Syntheses, Structures, and Properties
Authors: Jia Wei‐Guo , Huang Yuan‐Biao , Lin Yue‐Jian , Wang Guo‐Liang , Jin Guo‐Xin
Published: July 2008

The organochalcogen ligands (S, Se) derived from 3‐methylimidazole‐2‐thione/selone groups mbit (2a), mbis (2b), ebit (2c), and ebis (2d) [mbit = 1,1′‐methylenebis(1,3‐dihydro‐3‐methyl‐2H‐imidazole‐2‐thione), mbis = 1,1′‐methylenebis(1,3‐dihydro‐3‐methyl‐2H‐imidazole‐2‐selone), ebit = 1,1′‐(1,2‐ethanediyl)bis(1,3‐dihydro‐3‐methyl‐1H‐imidazole‐2‐thione), ebis = 1,1′‐(1,2‐ethanediyl)bis(1,3‐dihydro‐3‐methyl‐1H‐imidazole‐2‐selone)] were synthesized and characterized. Mononuclear NiII complexes NiBr2mbit (3a), NiBr2mbis (3b), NiBr2ebit (3c), and NiBr2ebis (3d) were obtained by the reactions of Ni(PPh3)2Br2 with 2a, 2b, 2c, and 2d, respectively. However, when the corresponding ligands 2a, 2b, 2c, and 2d were treated with CoCl2 in thf solution CoII 1D coordination polymers (CoCl2mbit)n (4a), (CoCl2mbis)n (4b), (CoCl2ebit)n (4c), and (CoCl2ebis)n (4d) were obtained. All compounds were fully characterized by IR spectroscopy and elemental analysis. The crystal structures of 2c, 3a, 3b, 3c, 4a, 4b, and 4c were determined by X‐ray crystallography. The local geometry around the nickel atom in complexes 3a–c was distorted tetrahedron with coordinated S(Se) and two Br atoms, and the organochalcogen ligands form an eight‐ or a nine‐membered ring with the nickel atom included. The cobalt atom coordination polymers 4a and 4b coexist as left‐handed and right‐handed helical chains, but 4c formed a zigzag chain with a CH3CN solvent molecule taken up in the channel structure. After activation with methylaluminoxane (MAO), the nickel complexes exhibited high activities for addition polymerization of norbornene (1.42 × 108 g PNBmol–1 Nih–1 for 3a). The effects of the Al/Ni ratio, reaction temperature, and reaction time to norbornene polymerization were also investigated.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2008)
Tocopherol retention in physically refined rapeseed oil as a function of deodorization temperature
Authors: Čmolík Jiří , Pokorný Jan , Réblová Zuzana , Svoboda Zdeněk
Published: July 2008

The effect of deodorization temperature (between 220 and 270 °C) on tocopherol retention in physically refined rapeseed oil during deodorization in a plant‐scale semi‐continuous tray‐type deodorizer was investigated. Among the three tocopherol homologues detected in the samples of rapeseed oils under study, the α‐ and γ‐tocopherol homologues, with the latter predominating, constituted the most abundant part of total tocopherols, accompanied by a small amount of δ‐tocopherol. The retention values calculated for both total and individual tocopherols decreased linearly with increasing deodorization temperature. The retention of total tocopherols decreased considerably from 91.5% at 220 °C to 54.7% at 270 °C, approaching a value of about 80% in the main area of concern between 230 and 240 °C. The retention values of individual tocopherols as well as the slopes resulting from the equations relating these retentions to deodorization temperature were observed to decrease in the same order as their molecular weights. Since the retention of α‐tocopherol is slightly higher than that of γ‐tocopherol, the average proportion of α‐tocopherol during deodorization slightly increases at the expense of γ‐tocopherol.
Virgin sunflower oil
Authors: Raß Michael , Schein Christian , Matthäus Bertrand
Published: July 2008

Sunflower oil is the second most important virgin oil in Europe but, from the nutritional point of view, the assessment of this oil has become increasingly poorer over the last few years because of the high amount of linoleic acid in traditional sunflower seeds. Today sunflower oil with a high oleic acid content is coming more into the focus of interest since the fatty acid composition is more comparable to rapeseed and olive oil. Another important aspect is that the high content of oleic acid results in a high oxidative stability, making this oil interesting for a wide range of applications. A special challenge is the production of high‐quality tasty virgin sunflower oil because, in contrast to other raw materials, about 30% of sunflower seeds consist of hulls that are covered by waxes. During oil processing these waxes are co‐extracted with the oil, resulting in undesired turbidity of the oil on storage. Pressing of the raw material is done in a screw press or expeller and results in residue fat contents between 7 and 15% depending on the pressing conditions. We discuss two possibilities to avoid or to remove waxes by dehulling of the seeds or winterisation of the resulting oil. Dehulling is carried out by an impact dehuller with removal of the hulls by airflow and gravity. Removal of hulls before pressing improves the sensory quality of the oil because it results in products with a mild sunflower seed‐like nutty taste, while oils from whole seeds often have a woody and bitter taste. In addition, the development of heat during pressing is reduced if dehulled seeds are used for oil production. Conventional sunflower seeds are processed mainly in big oil mills, whereas in small and medium‐sized facilities organic raw material is in use.
Perfluoroalkylation through Cross‐Metathesis between Alkenes and (Perfluoroalkyl)propenes
Authors: Eignerová Barbara , Dračínský Martin , Kotora Martin
Published: July 2008

A new approach to perfluoroalkylated compounds based on cross‐metathesis between perfluoropropenes and terminal alkenes has been developed. The reaction is catalysed with high efficiency and selectivity by the Hoveyda–Grubbs second‐generation catalyst under mild reaction conditions. The method is applicable to a wide range of compounds, such as vinylaromatics, isoprenoids and saccharides.(© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2008)
Evaluation of an Intramolecular Approach for the Synthesis of the Elusive C58N2 Heterofullerene Family (Eur. J. Org. Chem. 24/2008)
Authors: von Delius Max , Hauke Frank , Hirsch Andreas
Published: July 2008

The cover picture shows the synthetic pathway for the substitution of two carbon atoms of the fullerene C60 framework with two nitrogen atoms, bringing the new heterofullerene football C58N2 into play. The easily accessible (C59N)2 is used as a starting material for a tether‐based functionalization sequence leading to a direct C58N2 precursor. The chemical transformation of this precursor molecule under the same conditions used for the introduction of one nitrogen atom leads to a reaction product that, according to FAB mass spectroscopic analysis, contains up to 20 % of a C58N2 species. This represents the first strategic chemical synthesis of the C58N2 cage. Details are discussed in the article by A. Hirsch et al. on p. 4109 ff. The authors acknowledge the support of this work by Dipl. Chem. Benjamin Gebhardt, who designed the cover page.
Leaching behavior and immobilization of heavy metals in zinc leach residue before and after thermal treatment
Authors: Demır Gönül , Çoruh Semra , Ergun Osman Nuri
Published: July 2008

The aim of the present study was to investigate the metal leaching behavior of the hazardous waste of zinc industry before and after thermal treatment. Samples were subjected to the TCLP (Toxicity Characteristic Leaching Procedure) and ASTM (American Society of Testing and Materials) methods. The results of TCLP and ASTM leaching methods demonstrate that addition of clinoptilolite, blast furnace slag, and red mud to the zinc leach residue reduces the heavy metal content in the effluent and the red mud performs better than clinoptilolite and blast furnace slag. The leaching tests showed that the content of some elements in the waste before thermal treatment exceeded the regulatory limits and cannot be disposed of in the present form. Metal releases decreased at higher temperatures from 600°C and 800°C and reached to minimum levels at 1200°C because of heat‐induced formation of a glassy matrix. The levels of Zn2+ released for 1200°C was 0.025 mmol/L. Therefore, a stabilization or inertization treatment is necessary prior to disposal. Thermal treatment can be an acceptable method for disposal of zinc leach residue. © 2008 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Environ Prog, 2008
Effectiveness of day hospital treatment for anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa
Authors: Fittig Eike , Jacobi Corinna , Backmund Herbert , Gerlinghoff Monika , Wittchen Hans‐Ulrich
Published: July 2008

The aim of this observational study was to examine the short‐term effectiveness of a structured, largely manualised day hospital treatment, as well as the stability of short‐term effects in patients with anorexia nervosa (AN) and bulimia nervosa (BN). Eighty‐three patients, 47 with AN and 36 with BN, were assessed at pre‐treatment, at the end of the day hospital treatment and at follow‐up approximately one year after post‐treatment. Outcome measures were body mass index (BMI), disturbed eating attitudes and behaviours assessed by the Eating Disorder Inventory (EDI), frequency of bingeing and purging, and general psychopathology assessed by the Symptom Checklist‐90 (SCL‐90). At the end of the day hospital treatment, significant improvements could be found on all outcome variables (frequency of binge eating/vomiting/laxative abuse, BMI and core EDI‐subscales ‘drive for thinness’/‘bulimia’/‘body dissatisfaction’). Effect sizes were generally large (.74 > d < 2.44). The effects were maintained or improved until follow‐up (18 months). At follow‐up, 40.2% of AN patients and 40.4% of BN patients could be classified as remitted. General psychopathological impairment was also significantly reduced at post‐treatment and maintained until follow‐up. The results demonstrate both the short‐term effectiveness and long‐term stability of day hospital treatment in a large sample of patients with anorexia and BN. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.
Quantitative analysis of InSAR digital elevation models for identification of areas with different tectonic activities in southern Italy
Authors: Martino Claudio , Nico Giovanni , Schiattarella Marcello
Published: July 2008

This work presents the results of a quantitative analysis of an interferometric SAR (InSAR) digital elevation model (DEM), obtained by the Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM). The analysis aims to identify additional parameters to recognize areas in southern Italy with different tectonic activities and behaviours. The axial zone of the Campania‐Lucania Apennine and the Sila Massif in Calabria, Italy, characterized by quite different evolutionary histories, have been chosen as test areas sufficiently wide to validate observations on a sub‐regional scale at least. Geomorphological information on the shape of palaeosurfaces has been used to estimate uplift and/or erosion amounts and rates. Palaeosurfaces are identified on the DEM as regions with an altitude higher than 1000 m a.s.l. and sub‐planar land surfaces dipping less than 6°. Information about the shape of palaeosurfaces during the first stage of uplift and before the tectonic‐induced block fragmentation has been extracted. A fragmentation index has been computed for these erosional surfaces. The first stage of this landscape evolution has been studied in terms of the geometric characteristics of fragmented blocks. The last erosional stage has been recognized in terms of both geometric characteristics and fragmentation index of the sub‐horizontal land surfaces. Altitude and age of the palaeosurfaces, referred to ancient base‐levels of the erosion, have been used to estimate the erosional rate. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley and Sons, Ltd.