bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gastric perforation following cytoreductive surgery with perioperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy
Authors: Zappa Luis , Savady Renaldo , Sugarbaker Paul H.
Published: April 2010

Objective

Gastrointestinal tract perforation after cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) has an incidence of 6%. The most common site is the small bowel. The trauma of CRS and delay in wound healing due to HIPEC has been thought to cause this complication.

Methods

From our database of 1,251 patients we recorded the treatments that resulted in a stomach perforation, the clinical manifestations, and the final outcome. We formulated a pathophysiology for the development of this postoperative complication.

Results

Four patients had postoperative gastrointestinal perforation limited to the wall of the stomach (incidence 0.3%). All patients underwent greater omentectomy with ligation of the gastroepiploic vessels on the surface of the greater curvature, received HIPEC and early perioperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy. All perforations occurred along the greater curvature of the stomach. Successful management of the perforation was by suture plication of the gastric defect.

Conclusion

Perforation of the stomach following CRS and HIPEC likely results from vascular compromise, delay in wound healing from chemotherapy, seromuscular tears related to traction on the stomach wall and point pressure on the greater curvature from a long‐term indwelling nasogastric tube. Reperitonealization of the greater curvature, if seromuscular tears occur, may help prevent this complication. J. Surg. Oncol. 2010; 101:634–636. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Adenoma incidence after resection of sporadic colorectal cancer with microsatellite instability
Authors: Kang Ki Joo , Sinn Dong Hyun , Park Sung Hyun , Kim Jin Yong , Chang Dong Kyung , Son Hee Jung , Rhee Poong‐Lyul , Kim Jae J. , Rhee Jong Chul , Chun Ho‐Kyung , Kim Young‐Ho
Published: April 2010

Background and Objectives

Microsatellite instability (MSI) tumors that develop via the mismatch repair (MMR) gene pathway show rapid growth. It is unknown if patients with sporadic colorectal cancer (CRC) with MSI would benefit from a shorter interval between colonoscopies. The purpose of this study is to determine if there is a difference in adenoma incidence based on the presence of MSI in patients with sporadic CRC.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the incidence of a recurring adenoma at the 1‐ and 3‐year surveillance colonoscopies in 426 patients who had sporadic CRC after surgery

Results

The number of high MSI (MSI‐H), low MSI (MSI‐L), and microsatellite stable (MSS) tumors were 38 (9%), 27 (6%), and 361 (85%), respectively. After 1 year, the incidence of adenoma (13% vs. 16% for MSI‐L + MSS vs. MSI‐H, P = 0.61) or advanced adenoma (3% vs. 8% for MSI‐L + MSS vs. MSI‐H, P = 0.14) did not differ based on MSI status. The incidence of adenoma or advanced adenoma also did not differ based on MSI status at the 3‐year surveillance colonoscopy.

Conclusions

Our study does not show recommendations for a shorter interval for subsequent colonoscopies in patients with sporadic CRC with MSI‐H. Further studies on a large scale are needed. J. Surg. Oncol. 2010; 101:577–581. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Assessment of open versus laparoscopy‐assisted gastrectomy in lymph node‐positive early gastric cancer: A retrospective cohort analysis
Authors: An Ji Yeong , Heo Geon‐Ung , Cheong Jae‐Ho , Hyung Woo Jin , Choi Seung Ho , Noh Sung Hoon
Published: April 2010

Background

Laparoscopy‐assisted gastrectomy (LAG) is still limited for early gastric cancer (EGC) with low possibility of lymph node (LN) metastasis, due to the concern for incomplete LN dissection and controversial long‐term outcomes. We assessed oncological outcomes of laparoscopy‐assisted versus open gastrectomy (OG) for patients with LN positive EGC.

Methods

Between 2003 and 2007, 204 patients underwent surgery for LN positive EGC. We evaluated adequacy of LN dissection and early and long‐term outcomes after OG (n = 162) and LAG (n = 42).

Results

Operative time was longer but hospital stay was shorter for LAG than OG. Postoperative complications occurred in 14 patients (8.6%) after OG and 1 patient (2.4%) after LAG (P = 0.316). Mean number of retrieved LNs and number of retrieved and metastatic LNs for each station did not differ between the two groups. During median 35 months of follow‐up, 14 patients (8.6%) developed recurrence after OG, compared with 4 patients (9.5%) after LAG (P = 0.769). Overall 5‐year disease‐free survival was 89.9% and 89.7% after OG and LAG. Status of LN metastasis was the only independent prognostic factor for disease‐free survival.

Conclusions

LAG is an oncologically safe procedure even for LN positive EGC. Adequate LN dissection and comparable long‐term outcomes to OG can be achieved by LAG. J. Surg. Oncol. J. Surg. Oncol. 2010;102:77–81. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Radiofrequency ablation of colorectal liver metastases induces an inflammatory response in distant hepatic metastases but not in local accelerated outgrowth
Authors: Nijkamp Maarten W. , Borren Alie , Govaert Klaas M. , Hoogwater Frederik J.H. , Molenaar I. Quintus , van Diest Paul J. , Kranenburg Onno , Rinkes Inne H.M. Borel
Published: April 2010

Background

Recently, we have shown in a murine model that radiofrequency ablation (RFA) induces accelerated outgrowth of colorectal micrometastases in the transition zone (TZ) surrounding the ablated lesion. Conversely, RFA also induces an anti‐tumor T‐cell response that may limit tumor growth at distant sites. Here we have evaluated whether an altered density of inflammatory cells could be observed in the perinecrotic (TZ) metastases compared to hepatic metastases in the distant reference zone (RZ).

Methods

RFA‐treated tumor‐bearing mice (n = 10) were sacrificed. The inflammatory cell density (neutrophils, macrophages, CD4+ T‐cells, and CD8+ T‐cells) of tumors in the TZ (TZ tumors) was compared to that in tumors in the RZ (RZ tumors). Sham‐operated, tumor‐bearing mice (n = 10) were analyzed simultaneously as controls (sham‐treated tumors).

Results

In RFA‐treated, tumor‐bearing mice RZ tumors contained a significantly higher density of neutrophils and CD4+ T‐cells, but not macrophages and CD8+ T‐cells compared to sham‐treated tumors. Notably, TZ tumors had a significantly lower density of neutrophils, CD4+ T‐cells, and CD8+ T‐cells, but not macrophages, when compared to RZ tumors.

Conclusions

The accelerated perinecrotic tumor outgrowth following RFA is associated with a reduced density of neutrophils and T‐cells compared to distant hepatic metastases. This may have implications for local tumor recurrence following RFA. J. Surg. Oncol. 2010; 101:551–556. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Kyphoplasty for spinal fractures from multiple myeloma
Authors: Zou Jun , Mei Xin , Gan Minfeng , Yang Huilin
Published: April 2010

Introduction

Vertebral destruction secondary to multiple myeloma is a significant clinical issue, and controversy still exists over how many levels should undergo kyphoplasty in multiple myeloma. In addition, in vertebrae that have lost wall integrity, cement extravasation remains an important consideration and is relatively contraindicated.

Methods

Forty‐three symptomatic vertebral fractures from multiple myeloma were diagnosed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). In levels with anterior vertebral wall compromise, two distinct sequential applications of cement were performed. In levels with demonstrated posterior or lateral wall deficiency, cement was injected under fluoroscopy.

Results

All patients tolerated the procedure well and had immediate relief of back pain after kyphoplasty. Symptomatic cement extravasation and other complications were not observed. Vertebral height was restored (anterior 56.9 ± 14.2% to 82.9 ± 11.2%, middle 71.0 ± 13.4% to 81.1 ± 6.4%) (P < 0.001), and the mean kyphotic angle was improved (17.1 ± 7.2° to 8.9 ± 6.4°) (P < 0.001). The mean VAS decreased significantly from presurgery to postsurgery (8.1 ± 1.5 to 3.6 ± 1.8) (P < 0.001), as did the ODI (63.2 ± 15.9 to 37.1 ± 10.2) (P < 0.001). Six of eight subscores measured by the SF‐36, were significantly improved by the operation. All improvements were sustained up to final follow‐up.

Conclusion

Kyphoplasty is a safe and clinically effective treatment for pathologic vertebral fractures from multiple myeloma, even in levels with vertebral wall deficiency. The strategy of determining systematic level by alterations in MRI signal is effective in lowering the cost. J. Surg. Oncol. J. Surg. Oncol. 2010;102:43–47. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Detection of the reduced forms of radical adducts on the ESR trace using HPLC‐electrochemical detector‐ultraviolet absorption detector‐electron spin resonance‐MS
Authors: Ikeda Hideyuki , Iwahashi Hideo
Published: April 2010

To detect and identify the electron spin resonance (ESR) silent forms of the α‐(4‐pyridyl‐1‐oxide)‐N‐tert‐butylnitrone (4‐POBN) radical adducts, an electrochemical detector (ECD) was employed as a reactor in the HPLC‐ECD‐UV absorption detector‐ESR‐MS (HPLC‐ECD‐UV‐ESR‐MS). The ECD was employed to regenerate the radical forms from the reduced forms. The reduced forms of the 4‐POBN/pentyl radical adducts were analyzed using the HPLC‐ECD‐UV‐ESR‐MS. On addition of the ECD applied potential of +0.3 V, a peak appeared on the ESR trace of the HPLC‐ECD‐UV‐ESR‐MS analyses, indicating that the radical forms are regenerated from the reduced forms. The HPLC‐ECD‐UV‐ESR‐MS analyses were also performed for the reaction mixtures of phenylhydrazine with CuCl2. Two peaks (peaks I and II) were detected on the UV trace (300 nm) of the HPLC‐ECD‐UV‐ESR‐MS. The mass spectra showed that the peak I and peak II compounds are radical and reduced forms of the 4‐POBN/phenyl radical adducts under the ECD applied potential of 0.0 V. Peak I was only detected on the ESR trace under the ECD applied potential of 0.0 V. In addition to peak I, peak II appeared on the ESR trace under the ECD applied potential of +0.3 V, indicating that the reduced forms are oxidized to the corresponding radical forms.
Micellar liquid chromatography for lipophilicity determination of new biologically active 1,3‐purinodiones
Authors: Kawczak Piotr , Vander Heyden Yvan , Nasal Antoni , Bączek Tomasz , Drabczyñska Anna , Kieć‐Kononowicz Katarzyna , Kaliszan Roman
Published: April 2010

A series of newly synthesized 1,3‐purinodiones with potential anticonvulsant activity, exhibiting affinity to adenosine A1 and/or A2A receptors, were subjected to micellar LC (MLC) with SDS as micelle‐forming agent and n‐propanol as organic modifier. Two C18 silica‐based columns were employed in MLC: a particle one and a monolithic. In parallel, those derivatives were also analyzed in RP‐LC on four silica‐based columns and on an immobilized artificial membrane column. The correlations between the relevant logarithms of the retention factors of analytes obtained in MLC, immobilized artificial membrane and RP‐LC systems on the one hand, and the calculated log P (clog P) and log D values (clog D) on the other, were examined. The level of the correlations of retention data from MLC and RP‐LC systems with clog P and clog D obtained is similar but it could be stressed that MLC allows increasing the speed of analysis and using only one mobile phase. Moreover, there is no need of applying an extrapolation procedure in lipophilicity determination. Therefore, the MLC systems, providing chromatographic data in a fast and efficient manner, were demonstrated as promising alternatives to the classical RP‐LC systems to estimate the lipophilicity of drugs and drug candidates.
Influence of heat flux on localised corrosion of stainless steel under boiling conditions
Authors: Stoulil J. , Bystriansky J.
Published: April 2010

The article deals with the influence of heat flux on localised forms of corrosion of stainless steels under the conditions of phase transition on a metal surface. The observations focused on the influence of the initiation and propagation of pitting corrosion and stress corrosion cracking. Pitting corrosion was tested in the environment of 0.6% FeCl3 + 0.3% EDTA + 0.1% HCl, the susceptibility to stress corrosion cracking was verified in 35% MgCl2. The tests proved a negative influence of heat flux on the initiation and propagation of non‐uniform corrosion.
Electrochemical corrosion behavior of electroless Ni–P coating in NaCl and H2SO4 solutions
Authors: Wang L. L. , Chen H. J. , Hao L. , Lin A. , Gan F. X.
Published: April 2010

Electrochemical corrosion behavior of electroless Ni–P coating in NaCl and H2SO4 solutions were studied by potentiodynamic polarization curves and electrochemical impedance spectra techniques, as well as the corrosion morphology was characterized. The results indicate that electroless Ni–P coating with about 25 µm is stable in 30 days immersion in NaCl solution. Although it was corroded with prolonged immersion days, the corrosive medium has not penetrated through the coating. During the H2SO4 concentration ranging from 5 to 10%, the corrosion current density of electroless Ni–P coating increased due to the intensified anodic dissolution process; in 15% H2SO4 solution, electroless Ni–P coating shows obvious anodic passivation effect.
Effect of the molecular structure of some quinones on their corrosion inhibiting action
Authors: Stoyanova A. , Slavcheva E.
Published: April 2010

The molecular characteristics obtained by quantum chemical self‐consistent field (SCF) calculations of a series of quinones are correlated with the experimentally determined inhibitor efficiency for mild steel corrosion in neutral aqueous medium. It was established that the decrease of the ionization potential and the increase of the dipole moment of the quinone molecules favor the higher protective effect. The electron density and the geometric molecular structure have also been computed and are discussed in view of the corrosion inhibition.
Chromate replacement in coatings for corrosion protection of aerospace aluminium alloys
Authors: Markley T. A. , Mardel J. I. , Hughes A. E. , Hinton B. R. W. , Glenn A. M. , Forsyth M.
Published: April 2010

Mixed rare earth organophosphates have been investigated as potential corrosion inhibitors for AA2024‐T3 with the aim of replacing chromate‐based technologies. Cerium diphenyl phosphate (Ce(dpp)3) and mischmetal diphenyl phosphate (Mm(dpp)3) were added to epoxy coatings applied to AA2024‐T3 panels and they were effective in reducing the amount and rate of filiform corrosion in high humidity conditions. Ce(dpp)3 was the most effective and characterisation of the coating formulations showed approximately a factor of 5 reduction in both the number of corrosion filaments initiated as well as the length of these. Mm(dpp)3 appeared to reduce the corrosion growth rate by a factor of 2 although it was the more effective inhibitor in solution studies. Spectroscopic characterisation of the coatings indicated that the cerium based inhibitor may disrupt network formation in the epoxy thus resulting in a coating that absorbed more water and allowed greater solubilisation of the corrosion inhibiting compound.
Mono‐carboxylate conversion coatings for AZ31 Mg alloy protection
Authors: Frignani A. , Grassi V. , Zucchi F. , Zanotto F.
Published: April 2010

Conversion coatings on a magnesium alloy were obtained by dipping AZ31 specimens in aqueous solutions of sodium salts of mono‐carboxylic acids (stearic, palmitic, myristic, lauric, mono‐carboxylate ion concentration from 1 to 5 mM, depending on the salt solubility) for 24 and 72 h at room temperature, or 24 h at 50 °C. The influence exerted by the treatment time, bath temperature and alkyl chain length on the efficiency of these coatings was studied.

The performances of the coatings were evaluated by potentiodynamic polarization curve recording after 1 h immersion in 0.05 M Na2SO4 solution, while their temporal evolution was monitored by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) spectra during 24 h. Further and long lasting tests were carried out also in 0.1 M NaCl solution.

The efficiency of the coatings depended on the aliphatic chain length, and increased as the treatment time and the bath temperature were increased. The coating of lower homologue only hindered the cathodic process, while those of the higher homologues markedly inhibited the anodic process too. The best performances were displayed by 24 h‐50°C stearic conversion coating, which maintained a very high efficiency for over 800 h immersion in 0.05 M sulphate solution.
Perry syndrome due to the DCTN1 G71R mutation: A distinctive levodopa responsive disorder with behavioral syndrome, vertical gaze palsy, and respiratory failure
Authors: Newsway Victoria , Fish Mark , Rohrer Jonathan D. , Majounie Elisa , Williams Nigel , Hack Melissa , Warren Jason D. , Morris Huw R.
Published: April 2010

Perry syndrome is a rare form of autosomal dominant Parkinsonism with respiratory failure recently defined as being due to mutations in the DCTN1 gene. We describe a new family carrying a G71R mutation in the DCTN1 gene. The proband displayed a series of distinctive features not previously described in Perry syndrome: a disorder of vertical downward saccades accompanied by progressive midbrain atrophy, predominant nonmotor symptoms responsive to levodopa, distinctive craniocervical levodopa induced dyskinesias, and a good response to high‐dose levodopa therapy and respiratory support. The family was initially thought to have autosomal dominant behavioral variant frontotemporal dementia with Parkinsonism. This report expands the clinical definition of this distinctive syndrome. © 2009 Movement Disorder Society
Isolation, cloning, and characterization of the 2S albumin: A new allergen from hazelnut
Authors: Garino Cristiano , Zuidmeer Laurian , Marsh Justin , Lovegrove Alison , Morati Maria , Versteeg Serge , Schilte Piet , Shewry Peter , Arlorio Marco , van Ree Ronald
Published: April 2010

Scope: 2S albumins are the major allergens involved in severe food allergy to nuts, seeds, and legumes. We aimed to isolate, clone, and express 2S albumin from hazelnut and determine its allergenicity. Methods: 2S albumin from hazelnut extract was purified using size exclusion chromatography and RP‐HPLC. After N‐terminal sequencing, degenerated and poly‐d(T) primers were used to clone the 2S albumin sequence from hazelnut cDNA. After expression in Escherichia coli and affinity purification, IgE reactivity was evaluated by Immunoblot/ImmunoCAP (inhibition) analyses using sera of nut‐allergic patients. Results: N‐terminal sequencing of a ∼10 kDa peak from size exclusion chromatography/RP‐HPLC gave two sequences highly homologous to pecan 2S albumin, an 11 amino acid (aa) N‐terminal and a 10aa internal peptide. The obtained clone (441 bp) encoded a 147aa hazelnut 2S albumin consisting of a putative signal peptide (22 aa), a linker peptide (20 aa), and the mature protein sequence (105 aa). The latter was successfully expressed in E. coli. Both recombinant and natural 2S albumin demonstrated similar IgE reactivity in Immunoblot/ImmunoCAP (inhibition) analyses. Conclusion: We confirmed the postulated role of hazelnut 2S albumin as an allergen. The availability of recombinant molecules will allow establishing the importance of hazelnut 2S albumin for hazelnut allergy.
β‐Carboline alkaloids from the stems of Picrasma quassioides
Authors: Jiao Wei‐Hua , Gao Hao , Li Chen‐Yang , Zhou Guang‐Xiong , Kitanaka Susumu , Ohmura Atsuko , Yao Xin‐Sheng
Published: April 2010

Five new β‐carboline alkaloids, 6,12‐dimethoxy‐3‐(2‐hydroxylethyl)‐β‐carboline (1), 3,10‐dihydroxy‐β‐carboline (2), 6,12‐dimethoxy‐3‐(1‐hydroxylethyl)‐β‐carboline (3), 6,12‐dimethoxy‐3‐(1,2‐dihydroxylethyl)‐β‐carboline (4), and 6‐methoxy‐3‐(2‐hydroxyl‐1‐ethoxylethyl)‐β‐carboline (5), and two new natural products, 6‐methoxy‐12‐hydroxy‐3‐methoxycarbonyl‐β‐carboline (6) and 3‐hydroxy‐β‐carboline (7) were isolated from the stems of Picrasma quassioides along with 16 known β‐carboline alkaloids (8–23). The structures of new compounds were determined by extensive spectroscopic analyses, and the 1D and 2D NMR data of compounds 6, 7 and 10 were reported for the first time. The bioassays showed that only compounds 14 and 16 could enhance the differentiation of 3T3‐L1 preadiocytes accompanied by secretion of adiponectin proteins among these 23 compounds. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Randomizing research participants: Promoting balance and concealment in small samples
Authors: Matthews Ellyn E. , Cook Paul F. , Terada Masaka , Aloia Mark S.
Published: April 2010

Randomization is central to rigorous scientific trials. An effective but underutilized approach is urn randomization. To test the ability of urn randomization versus simple randomization to produce balanced groups with small sample sizes, we conducted simulated randomizations: 10 times under sample size scenarios of 20, 40, 60 (group sizes of 10, 20, and 30, respectively), for 30 trials in total. For groups of 20–30, urn surpassed simple randomization in the equal distribution of confounding variables between groups, leading to effects of these variables that were both smaller on average and more consistently close to zero over multiple trials. The urn method is easy to implement and has the advantages of unpredictability of assignment and decreased susceptibility to investigator bias. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Res Nurs Health 33:243–253, 2010
Search for transmembrane protein in gastric cancer by the Escherichia coli ampicillin secretion trap: expression of DSC2 in gastric cancer with intestinal phenotype
Authors: Anami Katsuhiro , Oue Naohide , Noguchi Tsuyoshi , Sakamoto Naoya , Sentani Kazuhiro , Hayashi Tetsutaro , Hinoi Takao , Okajima Masazumi , Graff Jonathan M , Yasui Wataru
Published: April 2010

Gastric cancer (GC) is one of the most common malignancies worldwide. Genes expressed only in cancer tissue, and especially on the cell membrane, will be useful molecular markers for diagnosis and may also be good therapeutic targets. To identify genes that encode transmembrane proteins present in GC, we generated Escherichia coli ampicillin secretion trap (CAST) libraries from two GC cell lines and normal stomach. By sequencing 4320 colonies from CAST libraries, we identified 30 candidate genes that encode transmembrane proteins present in GC. Quantitative reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction analysis of these candidates revealed that ZDHHC14, BST2, DRAM2, and DSC2 were expressed much more highly in GC than in 14 kinds of normal tissues. Among these, DSC2 encodes desmocollin 2, which is one of three known desmocollins. Immunohistochemical analysis demonstrated that 22 (28%) of 80 GC cases were positive for desmocollin 2, and desmocollin 2 expression was observed frequently in GC with the intestinal mucin phenotype. Furthermore, desmocollin 2 expression was correlated with CDX2 expression. These results suggest that expression of desmocollin 2, induced by CDX2, may be a key regulator for GC with the intestinal mucin phenotype. Our results provide a list of genes that have high potential as a diagnostic and therapeutic target for GC. Copyright © 2010 Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Polymyxin‐direct hemoperfusion for sepsis‐induced multiple organ failure
Authors: Hirabayashi Koichi , Shiohara Masaaki , Saito Shoji , Tanaka Miyuki , Yanagisawa Ryu , Tsuruta Goro , Fukuyama Tetsuhiro , Hidaka Yoshihiko , Nakazawa Yozo , Shimizu Takashi , Sakashita Kazuo , Koike Kenichi
Published: April 2010

We report a case of multiple organ failure caused by the Bacillus cereus infection during acute lymphoblastic leukemia therapy, who was treated successfully. A 15‐year‐old male developed (B. cereus) sepsis on the 19th day after chemotherapy initiation. Polymyxin‐direct hemoperfusion for septic shock was started, followed by continuous hemodiafiltration. His condition improved after starting the hemoperfusion. At the onset of sepsis, elevated levels of serum inflammatory cytokines, anti‐inflammatory cytokines, and plasminogen‐activator inhibitor complex‐1 were observed. Serum levels of these cytokines and bioactive substances decreased after blood purification therapy, which correlated with the improvement of clinical symptoms. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2010;55:202–205. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Imatinib mesylate in children and adolescents with cancer
Authors: Barr Ronald D.
Published: April 2010

Imatinib is an inhibitor of theBCR–ABLfusion gene product that characterizes chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), and of the related tyrosine kinases c‐KIT and platelet‐derived growth factor (PDGF) receptor. The drug is now included as front‐line therapy for CML and Philadelphia chromosome‐positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia in children and adolescents, though valid concerns about serious late sequelae remain unresolved and are important issues for further study. European and North American consortia have conducted phase I and II clinical trials of imatinib in children and adolescents with brain and other solid tumors that have provided little evidence of efficacy. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2010;55:18–25. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Detection of cell‐free RNA in children with neuroblastoma and comparison with that of whole blood cell RNA
Authors: Corrias Maria Valeria , Pistorio Angela , Cangemi Giuliana , Tripodi Gino , Carlini Barbara , Scaruffi Paola , Fardin Paolo , Garaventa Alberto , Pistoia Vito , Haupt Riccardo
Published: April 2010

Background

Since there is no validated assay to monitor disease in children with neuroblastoma (NB), we tested whether NB specific cell‐free RNA could be detected in their plasma samples. Moreover, with the aim of reducing patients' discomfort, we compared this assay to a recently standardized procedure that uses a larger amount of whole blood.

Procedures

Using conditions that excluded RNA recovery from contaminating tumor cells, the total amount of cell‐free RNA present in healthy children and patients with NB was quantified. Expression of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) was assayed by quantitative RT‐PCR.

Results

In patients with NB the amount of cell‐free RNA was higher than in healthy children. However, it was less and more degraded than in healthy adults. The median amount of cell‐free RNA that was reverse transcribed, measured through the use of standard curves for reference genes, was 0.03 (range 0–30) pg of input RNA, that is, always less than 1/10,000 of that reverse transcribed from total RNA extracted from whole cells. Despite the presence of disease and the positive results obtained with RNA extracted from peripheral blood cells, few cell‐free RNA samples tested positive by the TH assay. Similar results were obtained also with TH primers specifically designed to amplify 50 bp RNA fragments.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that for monitoring disease status detection of cell‐free tumor‐specific RNAs in patients with NB is not a reliable alternative to whole cell RNA. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2010;54:897–903 © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Intensive multimodality therapy for patients with stage 4a metastatic retinoblastoma
Authors: Dunkel Ira J. , Khakoo Yasmin , Kernan Nancy A. , Gershon Timothy , Gilheeney Stephen , Lyden David C. , Wolden Suzanne L. , Orjuela Manuela , Gardner Sharon L. , Abramson David H.
Published: April 2010

Background

We previously reported promising pilot results treating patients with stage 4a metastatic retinoblastoma with combined intensive conventional chemotherapy, high‐dose chemotherapy with autologous hematopoietic stem cell rescue, and radiation therapy and now present an expanded and updated series.

Procedure

Fifteen patients with bone marrow (n = 14), bone (n = 10), orbit (n = 9), and/or liver (n = 4) disease were treated. Induction chemotherapy usually consisted of vincristine, cyclophosphamide, cisplatin, and etoposide. The high‐dose chemotherapy regimen included carboplatin and thiotepa alone (n = 1) or with etoposide (n = 5) or topotecan (n = 7).

Results

Bone marrow cleared at first post‐initiation of chemotherapy examination in all patients and stem cells were harvested after a median of 3.5 cycles of chemotherapy (range 3–6 cycles). Two patients progressed prior to high‐dose chemotherapy and died. Thirteen received high‐dose chemotherapy at a median of 6 months post‐diagnosis of metastases (range 4–8 months). Ten are retinoblastoma‐free in first remission at a median follow‐up of 103 months (range 34–202 months) while three recurred (two in the CNS, one in the mandible) 14–20 months post‐diagnosis of metastases. Retinoblastoma‐free and event‐free survival at 5 years are 67% (95% confidence interval 38–85%) and 59% (95% confidence interval 31–79%). Six of the 10 survivors received radiation therapy. Three patients developed secondary osteosarcoma 14, 4, and 9 years after diagnosis of metastatic disease.

Conclusions

Intensive multimodality therapy including high‐dose chemotherapy with autologous hematopoietic stem cell rescue was curative for the majority of patients with stage 4a metastatic retinoblastoma treated. The contribution of external beam radiation therapy is unclear. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2010;55:55–59. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Using photoelectron spectroscopy for the investigation of substituent effects in N‐ and P‐centered radical cations
Authors: Egorochkin Alexey N. , Kuznetsova Olga V. , Khamaletdinova Nadiya M. , Domratcheva‐Lvova Lada G. , Domrachev Georgy A.
Published: April 2010

The information concerning the peculiarities of the intramolecular interactions in the radical cations which is currently available is very sketchy. In this work, a new approach to the investigation of the substituent effects in N‐ and P‐centered radical cations has been developed. It is based on a consideration of the core‐electron binding energies E and ionization potentials I of the 15 series of the neutral molecules measured by photoelectron spectroscopy. Properties E and I obey the linear free energy relationship. By using the correlation analysis, in radical cations the inductive, resonance, and polarizability effects were first established to be in operation. The polarizability effect is caused by the charge on the radical cation centers N•+ and P•+. The contribution of this effect ranges from 10 to 55%. In the radical cations containing the moieties with N•+−X and P•+−X bonds, the standard resonance constants σR and σ of the substituents X are of limited utility. An understanding of the substituent effects may give a better insight into the mechanisms of both: radical ions and heterolytic reactions. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On‐resin conversion of Cys(Acm)‐containing peptides to their corresponding Cys(Scm) congeners
Authors: Mullen Daniel G. , Weigel Benjamin , Barany George , Distefano Mark D.
Published: April 2010

The Acm protecting group for the thiol functionality of cysteine is removed under conditions (Hg2+) that are orthogonal to the acidic milieu used for global deprotection in Fmoc‐based solid‐phase peptide synthesis. This use of a toxic heavy metal for deprotection has limited the usefulness of Acm in peptide synthesis. The Acm group may be converted to the Scm derivative that can then be used as a reactive intermediate for unsymmetrical disulfide formation. It may also be removed by mild reductive conditions to generate unprotected cysteine. Conversion of Cys(Acm)‐containing peptides to their corresponding Cys(Scm) derivatives in solution is often problematic because the sulfenyl chloride reagent used for this conversion may react with the sensitive amino acids tyrosine and tryptophan. In this protocol, we report a method for on‐resin Acm to Scm conversion that allows the preparation of Cys(Scm)‐containing peptides under conditions that do not modify other amino acids. Copyright © 2010 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Photo‐EPR and magneto‐optical spectroscopy of iron centres in ZnO
Authors: Azamat D. V. , Debus J. , Yakovlev D. R. , Ivanov V. Yu. , Godlewski M. , Fanciulli M. , Bayer M.
Published: April 2010

ZnO has attracted increasing interest as promising material for optoelectronics and spintronics. Magnetic properties of ZnO can be controlled by doping with transition metal ions among which Fe3+ is one of the interesting candidates. We report on the properties of Fe3+ centres in hydrothermally and chemical vapour transport grown ZnO single crystals investigated by photo‐electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) and optical spectroscopy. Detailed magneto‐optical studies of Zeeman components of spin‐forbidden electric dipole transitions 4T1(G) → 6A1(6S) of Fe3+ centre in ZnO reveal the trigonal symmetry of fine structure of lowest Γ8 (4T1) excited state. The studies were performed in external magnetic fields up to 10 T and in the temperature range from 2 to 30 K. The energy positions of the Zeeman components at 8 T were measured as a function of the direction of applied magnetic field in $(1\bar {2}10)$ and (0001) planes. The detailed check of the angular variation of Zeeman lines shows two magnetically non‐equivalent Fe3+ centres. These special features were accounted by contribution of higher rank Zeeman terms of dimension BJ3. The photo‐generated EPR spectra of trigonal Fe3+ centres were detected in hydrothermally grown ZnO single crystals in addition to three types of charge compensated iron centres presented in these samples in the dark conditions.
Ultra‐violet ZnSSe, ZnMgS epilayers and MQW structures grown by MOVPE on GaP substrates
Authors: Kuznetsov Petr , Yakushcheva Galina , Jitov Victor , Zakharov Leonid , Lusanov Valery , Kozlovsky Vladimir , Tiberi Michael
Published: April 2010

The latest results on MOVPE growth of thick ZnSSe, ZnMgS epitaxial layers and MQW structures on their base are presented. The structures were grown on GaP substrates with different missorientation from (100) plane using ZnEt2, (MeCp)2Mg, Et2S2 and Et2Se as precursors at 490‐530 °C. The growth conditions of epilayers and periodic structures on substrate tilted by 10° to (111)A plane with high luminescence properties and smooth surface at thickness more than 5 μm were found. Thick ZnMgS‐based structures, grown under constant flow of (MeCp)2Mg supplied into reactor, have not stable Mg content. Therefore, the correction of Mg supply during the growth of ZnSSe/ZnMgS MQW structures was carried out. Based on the grown MQW structure, electron beam pumped vertical‐cavity surface‐emitting lasers (eVCSEL) was fabricated. Lasing at 376 nm with 0.8 W output power was achieved at RT and accelerating voltage of 50 kV. (© 2010 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Point and nanoscale defects in Cd(S, Se, Te) crystals induced by plastic deformation
Authors: Babentsov V. , Boiko V. , Grill R. , Franc J. , Shepelskii G. A.
Published: April 2010

The effect of uniaxial plastic deformation, indentation, and scribing along the selected axes on the excitonic and deep level photoluminescence (PL) of CdS, CdSe, CdTe, and ternary CdSeTe compounds has been studied. Dislocations movement produces new near band‐gap narrow PL lines, and changes initial wide PL bands (the deep level emission), in particular, a relative intensity increase or appearing of the near midgap 0.8 eV, 1.1 and 1.45 eV bands in CdTe, and corresponding PL bands in other II‐VI compounds (CdS, CdSe, and CdSeTe) (© 2010 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Physical and chemical cross analyses of II‐VI semiconductor nanomaterials
Authors: Dalmasso S. , Arl D. , Fregnaux M. , Gaumet J.‐J. , Zhang Y. , Laurenti J.‐P.
Published: April 2010

CdS quantum dots (QDs) are synthesized by the single source precursor thermal method. Compared with previous reports, a temperature ramp allows faster elaboration of smaller nanocrystals (NCs) with efficient room temperature (RT) visible emission. A cross‐disciplinary study between chemical analyses and physical techniques provides consistent data for these small NCs. Joint mass spectrometry, transmission electron microscopy and optical spectrometry techniques give a consistent picture about purity and stability of precursors, average size and size dispersion of the NCs, as well as their optical spectral response in correlation with their size via quantum confinement effects. RT photoluminescence spectroscopy reveals the great potential of such QDs and their tunable response wavelength in the visible spectrum. (© 2010 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Electroluminescence from a n‐ZnO/p‐GaN hybrid LED
Authors: Behrends Arne , Bakin Andrey , Waag Andreas , Kwack Ho‐Sang , Dang Le Si
Published: April 2010

In this work we report on the fabrication and characterization of a n‐ZnO/p‐GaN heterojunction LED. The p‐GaN layer was fabricated using MOCVD on Al2O3 with Mg as the acceptor whereas the ZnO nanostructures were grown in a very simple vapor transport system without any additionally doping. Room temperature electroluminescence (EL) measurements show green deep band emission centered at 2.3 eV which is clearly visible with the naked eye when the structure is forward biased. Cathodoluminescence mapping was performed to explain the absence of the band edge emission in the EL spectrum. (© 2010 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Ga doped ZnO thin films prepared by RF plasma assisted DC magnetron sputtering under reductive atmosphere without heating substrates
Authors: Hinoki Toshio , Yazawa Kenji , Kinoshita Kentaro , Ohmi Koutoku , Kishida Satoru
Published: April 2010

Ga doped ZnO (GZO) transparent conductive thin films have been prepared by RF plasma assisted DC magnetron sputtering under a reductive atmosphere without intentionally heating substrate. The resistivity of the GZO film facing the erosion area in the source target falls to about a 1/1000 value by providing the RF plasma, resulting in a uniform distribution of the sheet resistance. Currently obtained values of resistivity, Hall mobility, and carrier concentration are 1 x 10‐2 Ω‐cm, 4 cm2/Vs, and 3 x 1020 cm‐3, respectively. It has been also found that the crystallization of GZO films is also enhanced by the RF plasma. After the accelerated aging test (60 °C ‐ 95%RH) for 250 hrs, the sheet resistance maintains almost the same as the initial value for the GZO film prepared with RF plasma, though that increases by 15 times for the film prepared without RF plasma. (© 2010 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Cr2+:CdS crystal as a new material for room‐temperature tunable mid‐infrared lasing
Authors: Akimov V. A. , Frolov M. P. , Korostelin Yu. V. , Kozlovsky V. I. , Landman A. I. , Mislavskii V. V. , Podmar'kov Yu. P. , Skasyrsky Ya. K. , Voronov A.A.
Published: April 2010

By using the seeded physical vapour transport (SPVT) method the CdS:Cr single crystals were grown. Doping concentration up to 5×1018 cm‐3 was achieved. The emission lifetime of the exited state, 5E, of Cr2+ in CdS host was measured to be 0.93 μs at room temperature and 7.3 μs at liquid nitrogen temperature. The measured values of peak absorption and emission cross sections were found to be 1.4×10‐18 and 1.1×10‐18 cm2 respectively. Tuning possibility and efficiency of pulsed Cr2+:CdS laser was described. CW laser operation with slope efficiency of 52% and output power up to 0.79 W was obtained (© 2010 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Improvement of chemical stability of aqueous solution grown ZnO nanorods by aminosilane modification
Authors: Ogata Ken‐ichi , Dobashi Hideaki , Koike Kazuto , Sasa Shigehiko , Inoue Masataka , Yano Mitsuaki
Published: April 2010

Aiming at stable biosensing operation, aqueous‐grown ZnO nanorods on sapphire substrates were examined their chemical stability against the immersion in HCl solution. Density and diameter of the ZnO nanorods were remained but their height was shortened when immersed with aminosilane modification while bare ZnO nanorods were completely disappeared after 5 min immersion, indicating that the aminosilane modification is useful to improve the chemical stability of ZnO nanolods even though the membrane by the silanezation process is not fully stable to HCl solution. (© 2010 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Effect of variable crucible dropping rate on solid‐liquid interface in CdZnTe crystal growth
Authors: Zhou Chenying , Min Jiahua , Wang Changjun , Liang Xiaoyan , Teng Jianyong , Wang Linjun
Published: April 2010

The Cd0.9Zn0.1Te crystal growth with low pressure and vertical Bridgman method (LPVB) was numerically simulated and analysed by the simulation software of Comsol Multiphysics. In the process of crystal growth, the influence of variable crucible dropping rate on solid‐liquid interface was studied in this paper. The variability of crucible dropping rate was achieved by a specifical furnace temperature distribution function, while the selection and analysis of crucible dropping rate was obtained by the combination of orthogonal experimental design method and regression analysis method. In this paper, the value of relative crystal growth rate was defined, and the influence of variable crucible dropping rate on solid‐liquid interface was discussed by comparing these values. The simulation results showed that if the crucible dropping rate was 3.5 mm/h (ν1) in the first stage and 0.6 mm/h (ν2) in the second stage, and the distance (d) between the bottom of crucible and the position of melting point in tempreture field was 0.02 m at the time of dropping rate change, the solid‐liquid interface was appreciably convex after 211 hours' growth, and the relative crystal growth rate was 0.45%, which made the solid‐liquid interface smooth and kept the crystal grow up spontaneously.
ZnS:N and ZnS:N,Ag grown by molecular beam epitaxy
Authors: Ichino K. , Kotani A. , Tanaka H. , Kawai T.
Published: April 2010

The N‐doping conditions have been investigated in the growth of ZnS:N by molecular beam epitaxy using RF plasma of N2 gas. As a result, high growth temperatures are found to be suitable for the effective incorporation and the activation of N acceptors. The capacitance versus voltage data of the ZnS:N layers grown at around 350 °C exhibit p‐type behavior, while the undoped layers show an n‐type characteristic due to residual donors. ZnS:N,Ag epitaxial layers were also grown to investigate the effect of Ag‐co‐doping. It is shown that the p‐type behavior of the N‐doped layers is enhanced by the Ag‐co‐doping. This suggests the formation of Ag‐related complex centers compensating residual donors (© 2010 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
A magnetoelectric logic gate
Authors: Hu Jia‐Mian , Li Zheng , Lin Y. H. , Nan C. W.
Published: April 2010

We present a strain‐mediated magnetoelectric logic (ME‐logic) gate, with electric field directly used as the logical input/output. The basic building block of the ME‐logic device is a magnetic tunnel junction (MTJ) attached to a ferroelectric layer, in which the resistance of the MTJ unit can be modulated by an electric field applied to the ferroelectric layer. The ME‐logic device combines the advantage of conventional MTJ‐based logic devices, while avoiding their problems associated with generating high local magnetic fields required in the switching circuits. Two possible schemes of such ME‐logic devices are introduced, i.e., either operated as a logic NOR, NOT or NAND gate, or selected to realize the logical NOR, NOT or NAND function at run‐time.

magnified image

Sequence of a magnetoelectric logic gate.

(© 2010 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Effects of probe pollutants on morphological and mechanical measurements of muscle and collagen fibers using atomic force microscopy
Authors: Zhu Jie , Sabharwal Tanya , Guo Lianhong , Lee Jenny , Wang Lin , Wang Guodong
Published: April 2010

Because of the interaction between probes and samples, pollutants in buffer solution or in the air would easily bind to probes and make the probe polluted, which might influence the morphological and mechanical measurements with atomic force microscopy. The polluted probes might transfer the pollutants onto the samples and thus change the surface ultrastructure of samples, or collect the deviated feedback signals to make the phantasm images. The former process is irreversible even if a new probe is employed, and the latter one is a reversible process as long as changing the used/polluted probe. Effects of polluted probes on morphological and mechanical characteristics of insect flight muscle and rat tail tendon collagen I fibers had been discussed in this study, in which, we constructed a series of methods to avoid/reduce the collecting of phantasm images and deviated mechanical information, such as changing the scanning direction and scanning force, replacing the new probes, or cleaning the polluted probes. SCANNING 32:113–121, 2010. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Constructing a GDP‐based index for use as a benchmark
Authors: Cohen Ruben D.
Published: April 2010

The gross domestic product (GDP) is a fundamental economic indicator that is frequently used as a benchmark for local equity indices. The widespread appeal of this association is understandable because an equity index, especially if broad, could, like the GDP, also manifest the state of the economy. At the same time, however, the validity of a direct relation between the two is debatable since the GDP is known to be characteristically different from the typical equity index, however broad.

In this work, we review some of the key elements that separate the GDP from a typical broad equity index in order to explain why the two cannot be compared directly with each other. We then incorporate a readily available mapping technique to create a GDP‐based index that circumvents their inherent disparities and, thus, enable us to benchmark one against the other. Copyright © 2010 Wilmott Magazine Ltd.
A simple but promisingly more empirically consistent model for stock price and option pricing
Authors: Pang Huadong (Henry)
Published: April 2010

In this paper, we propose a simple stochastic model for stock price dynamics and option pricing, which not only has the same analyticity as log‐normal and Black‐Scholes model, but is also possibly more consistent with many phenomenons arising from empirical stock and option markets than many of the well‐known existing models. It is another way to model stock price and options under leptokurtic distribution that hopefully can add some new insight or give new ideas to improve stock and option valuation. Copyright © 2010 Wilmott Magazine Ltd.
Hematopoietic stem cell: self‐renewal versus differentiation
Authors: Seita Jun , Weissman Irving L.
Published: April 2010

The mammalian blood system, containing more than 10 distinct mature cell types, stands on one specific cell type, hematopoietic stem cell (HSC). Within the system, only HSCs possess the ability of both multipotency and self‐renewal. Multipotency is the ability to differentiate into all functional blood cells. Self‐renewal is the ability to give rise to HSC itself without differentiation. Since mature blood cells (MBCs) are predominantly short‐lived, HSCs continuously provide more differentiated progenitors while properly maintaining the HSC pool size throughout life by precisely balancing self‐renewal and differentiation. Thus, understanding the mechanisms of self‐renewal and differentiation of HSC has been a central issue. In this review, we focus on the hierarchical structure of the hematopoietic system, the current understanding of microenvironment and molecular cues regulating self‐renewal and differentiation of adult HSCs, and the currently emerging systems approaches to understand HSC biology. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

This article is categorized under:

Developmental Biology > Stem Cell Biology and Regeneration