bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Premature carotid artery disease in pediatric cancer survivors treated with neck irradiation
Authors: Meeske Kathleen A. , Siegel Stuart E. , Gilsanz Vicente , Bernstein Leslie , Nelson Mary B. , Sposto Richard , Weaver Fred A. , Lavey Robert S. , Mack M.P.H. Wendy J. , Nelson Marvin D.
Published: July 2009

Background

While carotid artery disease and strokes have been documented in adult cancer patients treated with neck irradiation, little information is available on pediatric patients. The purpose of this study is to determine if carotid disease is more prevalent among pediatric cancer survivors treated with neck irradiation than among healthy controls.

Procedure

Thirty pediatric cancer survivors who received neck irradiation (2,000–6,660 cGy) and 30 healthy subjects underwent bilateral carotid ultrasounds. Study outcome measures were common carotid intima‐media thickness (IMT) and plaque (present or absent). Multivariate methods were used to compare cases and controls and to identify risk factors related to carotid disease in childhood cancer survivors.

Results

IMT was greater for cancer survivors than controls (0.46 mm (SD 0.12) vs. 0.41 mm (SD 0.06), P < 0.001). Plaque was present in 18% of irradiated vessels and 2% of non‐irradiated vessels (P < 0.01). Among cancer survivors, IMT was positively associated with female gender (P < 0.05), non‐white ethnicity (P < 0.01), positive family history of stroke/heart attack (P < 0.05), BMI (P < 0.001), total cholesterol (P < 0.01), cancer relapse (P < 0.001), and years off treatment (P < 0.0001). Plaque was positively associated with relapse (P < 0.05) and C‐reactive protein (P < 0.01). There was no significant relationship between radiation dose at levels ≥2,000 cGy and IMT or plaque.

Conclusions

Carotid artery disease was more prevalent among cancer survivors treated with neck irradiation than among controls. Due to the high risk of stroke associated with advanced carotid disease, larger prospective studies are needed to better define disease risk in these long‐term survivors. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009;53:615–621. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Pediatric‐onset mastocytosis: A long term clinical follow‐up and correlation with bone marrow histopathology
Authors: Uzzaman Ashraf , Maric Irina , Noel Pierre , Kettelhut Brett V. , Metcalfe Dean D. , Carter Melody C.
Published: July 2009

Background

Pediatric onset mastocytosis usually presents as urticaria pigmentosa; and less often as diffuse cutaneous mastocytosis. While the literature indicates that disease often resolves, there has been a move to more aggressive therapy for mastocytosis early in life. We addressed the long term prognosis of pediatric‐onset disease by examining 17 children with mastocytosis which we had reported on in 1989 [1].

Procedure

We successfully contacted 15 of these patients and data was collected regarding their clinical status. Original bone marrow specimens were re‐stained, re‐examined, and correlated with disease outcome using consensus criteria. Three of five patients with persistent disease underwent repeat bone marrow biopsies.

Results

There was complete regression of disease as defined by cutaneous findings and symptoms (clinical disease severity) in 10 of 15 patients (67%). Three patients had major (20%) and two had partial regression of disease (13%). Repeat marrow examinations on three patients with persistent disease documented systemic mastocytosis based on marrow findings in one patient who had partial regression of disease and was the only patient with initial morphologic evidence of systemic disease. Of the remaining two patients, one demonstrated partial regression and the other major regression of disease; and neither had evidence of systemic mastocytosis.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that initial bone marrow biopsies were prognostic in that those without evidence of systemic disease experienced disease regression; and that the long term prognosis for children managed symptomatically with mastocytosis is highly encouraging. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009;53:629–634. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cost of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia care in Shanghai, China
Authors: Liu Yin , Chen Jing , Tang JingYan , Ni Shengxing , Xue Huiliang , Pan Ci
Published: July 2009

Background

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is the most common and curable malignant pediatric disease in children. In low‐ and middle‐income countries, however, economic factors prevent many patients from receiving complete treatment, even as government and insurance entities lack complete data on the costs for ALL therapies. Here, we analyzed the overall costs for pediatric ALL therapies and their constitutive elements.

Procedure

All cost information was drawn from our hospital database. We analyzed the costs of 45 newly diagnosed children with ALL from May 2005 to June 2006; 20 were classified into low‐risk group, 25 into medium‐risk group, and all had completed the ALL‐2005 protocol treatment. Forty cases were B‐lineage, four were T‐lineage, and one was double‐lymphoid lineage.

Results

Average total clinic expense per person was US $3,694.58 ± 1,376.85. Average total in‐hospital expense per patient was US $7,299.48 ± 6,526.39, with a large individual difference. Medicine and laboratory test costs represented 40.5% and 21.5%, respectively. Patients stayed at home or attended clinic for more than 90% of the therapy period. In‐hospital and clinic constituted 66.4% and 33.6% of costs, respectively. Costs among risk groups and with/without severe complications differed significantly (P < 0.05). Thirty‐month event‐free survivals were 94.14% and 82.81% for the low‐ and medium‐risk groups, respectively.

Conclusion

Risk group and severe complications were main factors affecting total medical costs. Average overall costs for childhood ALL in this study were less than US $11,000, with reasonable clinical results. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009;53:557–562. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
MDM2 SNP309 genotype influences survival of metastatic but not of localized neuroblastoma
Authors: Perfumo Chiara , Parodi Stefano , Mazzocco Katia , Defferrari Raffaella , Inga Alberto , Scarrà Giovanna Bianchi , Ghiorzo Paola , Haupt Riccardo , Tonini Gian Paolo , Fronza Gilberto
Published: July 2009

Background

MDM2 is a major negative regulator of p53 function and is directly regulated by MYCN in neuroblastoma (NB) cells. MDM2 SNP309, a T‐to‐G substitution in the MDM2 promoter associated with higher gene expression compared to wild‐type, may attenuate the p53 pathway in NB, in which p53 mutations are rare. We investigated its impact on NB development and survival in relation with major clinical and biological characteristics.

Procedure

A consecutive cohort of 497 NB children, diagnosed in Italy between 1995 and 2005, and a healthy control population of 471 adults were genotyped for MDM2 SNP309. NB patients were followed up until June 30, 2008.

Results

Patients and controls showed similar distribution of MDM2 SNP309 genotypes. In patients, the polymorphism was not associated with any characteristic at diagnosis. In localized stages no effect of the polymorphism on survival was evident. In stage 4 patients overall survival (OS), event free survival (EFS) and survival after relapse (SAR) were significantly poorer for TG/GG than for TT patients (P = 0.008; P = 0.013; P = 0.046, respectively). In this group, such an effect was more evident in patients with MYCN amplification (OS: P < 0.001; EFS: P = 0.028; SAR: P < 0.001).

Conclusions

While MDM2 SNP309 status does not affect the risk of developing NB nor disease outcome for localized cancer cases, it significantly correlates with survival in stage 4 NB patients, particularly in the presence of MYCN amplification. The impact of small molecule inhibitors of MDM2 activity in the management of such patients could be usefully considered. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009;53:576–583. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Phase II evaluation of intravenous vinorelbine (Navelbine) in recurrent or refractory pediatric malignancies: A Children's Oncology Group study
Authors: Kuttesch John F. , Krailo Mark D. , Madden Timothy , Johansen Mary , Bleyer Archie
Published: July 2009

Background

A Phase II trial was developed to determine the efficacy and toxicity of intravenous vinorelbine, a semi‐synthetic vinca alkaloid, in children, adolescent, and young adults with recurrent or refractory solid malignancies.

Procedures

Fifty patients were enrolled among three strata: soft tissue sarcomas [rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS), non‐rhabdomyosarcoma, primitive neuroepithelial tumor] (20 patients); brain tumors [astrocytoma (4 patients), medulloblastoma (2 patients), other (16 patients)] (22 patients); neuroblastoma (8 patients). Vinorelbine was given weekly for 6 consecutive weeks during an 8‐week interval. The response rate and toxicity profile was assessed.

Results

Among the first 35 patients treated at 33.75 mg/m2/dose, 25 experienced grades 3–4 neutropenia (75%). The dose was decreased to 30 mg/m2/dose in the remaining 15 patients. The median age was 10 years (range, 1–25). Four responses (one complete, three partial) occurred within the soft tissue sarcoma strata (all with RMS) and two occurred in the brain tumor group (medulloblastoma and astrocytoma). The most common toxicities were hematological and neurological.

Conclusion

Vinorelbine at dose of 30 mg/m2 can be safely administered to children with recurrent or refractory solid malignancies. The study design identified vinorelbine to be active in the sarcoma category, with a response rate of 36% (4/11) among RMS patients. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009;53:590–593. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Growth patterns in children with sickle cell anemia during puberty
Authors: Rhodes Melissa , Akohoue Sylvie A. , Shankar Sadhna M. , Fleming Irma , Qi An Angel , Yu Chung , Acra Sari , Buchowski Maciej S.
Published: July 2009

Background

Previous studies of children with homozygous sickle cell anemia (SCA) show impaired growth and maturation. The correlation of this suboptimal growth with metabolic and hematological factors during puberty is poorly understood.

Procedure

We studied a group of pre‐adolescent children with SCA (19 males, 14 females) and healthy controls (16 males, 15 females) matched for race, sex, body size, and pubertal development. Height, weight, body mass index (BMI), and body composition changes were longitudinally assessed over a 2‐year period and compared between the groups and with Z scores based on US growth charts. These changes were correlated with hemoglobin (Hgb) concentration and with energy expenditure (EE) measured using indirect whole‐room calorimetry.

Results

Children with SCA progressed through puberty slower than control children. While, after 2 years, pubertal males with SCA were shorter, their annual increases in weight were not different from controls. The mean fat free mass (FFM) increments were significantly less in males and females with SCA than in control children. In males with SCA, growth in height declined over time and was significantly slower than in matched controls (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Growth delays were present during puberty in children with SCA. Decreased growth velocity in children with SCA was independently associated with decreased Hgb concentration and increased total EE. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009;53:635–641. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Preoperative chemotherapy for patients with Wilms tumor in Malawi is feasible and efficacious
Authors: Israëls Trijn , Molyneux Elizabeth M. , Caron Huib N. , Jamali Monica , Banda Kondwani , Bras Hans , Kamiza Steve , Borgstein Eric , de Kraker Jan
Published: July 2009

Background

Wilms tumor has a survival rate of 85–90% in well resourced countries but in low income countries survival is lower. Malawi is a country with very limited resources. We studied the feasibility, toxicity and efficacy of preoperative chemotherapy for Wilms tumor in Malawian children.

Methods

All patients diagnosed with a Wilms tumor, admitted in Blantyre, Malawi, from 2006 to 2008, were included. These patients received SIOP‐based preoperative chemotherapy followed by surgery and risk‐stratified post‐operative chemotherapy. Social support and counseling were provided to prevent abandonment of treatment.

Results

Twenty patients were included. Mean tumor volume at diagnosis was 2,500 ml and eight patients (40%) had metastases. Ninety‐five percent of patients presented with hypertension, 80% with microscopic hematuria and 60% with a raised platelet count. Preoperative chemotherapy resulted in >50% tumor reduction in 55% of patients with localized disease and 75% of patients with metastatic disease. During preoperative chemotherapy, 11 of 18 patients experienced ≥ grade 3 anaemia, 7 patients experienced ≥ grade 3 neutropenia. In 12 patients the tumor was resected. Reasons of treatment failure were: abandonment of treatment (N = 3), death during anaesthesia induction (N = 1), inoperability (N = 5, due to metastatic disease in N = 4) and relapse (N = 2). One patient died of malaria 2 months after completion of chemotherapy. Eight patients (40%) are alive with a median follow up of 8 months (range 0–1.5 years).

Conclusion

Preoperative chemotherapy for Wilms tumor is feasible, tolerated and efficacious in Malawi. Continued efforts are needed to encourage early presentation and to prevent abandonment. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009;53:584–589. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Fanconi anemia and biallelic BRCA2 mutation diagnosed in a young child with an embryonal CNS tumor
Authors: DeWire Mariko D. , Ellison David W. , Patay Zoltan , McKinnon Peter J. , Sanders Robert P. , Gajjar Amar
Published: July 2009

Medulloblastoma, the most common pediatric malignant brain tumor often arises sporadically; however, in a subgroup of patients, there exist familial conditions such as Fanconi anemia with biallelic BRCA2 mutation that predispose patients to developing medulloblastoma. Biallelic inactivation of BRCA2 in Fanconi anemia has been previously described in only 11 patients with medulloblastoma in the literature to date. Here we report two siblings diagnosed with central nervous system embryonal tumors at an early age in association with biallelic BRCA2 inactivation, including the first reported case of a spinal cord primitive neuroectodermal tumor (PNET) in a BRCA2/FANCD1 kindred. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009;53:1140–1142. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Antifungal prophylaxis with micafungin in patients treated for childhood cancer
Authors: Kusuki Shigenori , Hashii Yoshiko , Yoshida Hisao , Takizawa Sachiko , Sato Emiko , Tokimasa Sadao , Ohta Hideaki , Ozono Keiichi
Published: July 2009

Background

Invasive fungal infections (IFIs) remain a major cause of infectious morality in neutropenic patients receiving chemotherapy or hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Micafungin exhibits broad antifungal activity against both Aspergillus and Candida species. We performed a retrospective study to determine the efficacy and safety of prophylactic micafungin against IFI in pediatric neutropenic patients during chemotherapy or HSCT.

Procedure

Forty patients were given micafungin (3 mg/kg/day) intravenously for neutropenia: 131 patient‐cycles (39 patients) after chemotherapy and 15 patient‐cycles (14 patients) after HSCT. Median duration of neutropenia and micafungin prophylaxis was 13 and 23 days after chemotherapy and HSCT, respectively.

Results

Treatment success rate, defined as absence of proven, probable, possible, or suspected IFIs, was 93.9% (121/131) and 80.0% (12/15) for chemotherapy and HSCT, respectively. Proven or probable IFI was documented in only one patient after HSCT. No adverse events were observed that could be related to micafungin prophylaxis.

Conclusions

These results suggest that prophylactic micafungin is well tolerated and may prevent IFIs in pediatric patients with neutropenia receiving chemotherapy or HSCT. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009;53:605–609. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
PARP1 expression in pediatric central nervous system tumors
Authors: Barton Valerie N. , Donson Andrew M. , Kleinschmidt‐DeMasters B.K. , Gore Lia , Liu Arthur K. , Foreman Nicholas K.
Published: July 2009

Background

Despite advances in therapy, outcome in many high‐grade pediatric central nervous system (CNS) tumors remains poor. The focus of neuro‐oncology research has thus turned towards identifying novel therapeutic targets. Poly(ADP‐ribose) polymerase‐1 (PARP1) is a DNA repair protein that has been studied in a variety of malignancies and may interfere with therapy‐induced DNA damage, however expression in pediatric CNS tumors is unknown.

Procedure

We evaluated PARP1 mRNA expression in 81 pediatric CNS tumors using microarray technology. Protein expression was examined by Western blot.

Results

PARP1 mRNA is highly expressed in high‐grade tumors (P < 0.0001). PARP1 mRNA expression was greater in high‐grade glioma than pilocytic astrocytoma (P = 3.5 × 10−5) and in large cell medulloblastoma over classic medulloblastoma (P = 0.0053). PARP1 protein was also prominent in high‐grade tumors (P = 0.022).

Conclusion

These findings indicate that PARP1 is expressed in high‐grade pediatric CNS tumors, implicating PARP1 inhibition as a potential therapeutic target. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009; 53:1227–1230. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Malignancies in patients with β‐thalassemia major and β‐thalassemia intermedia: A multicenter study in Iran
Authors: Karimi Mehran , Giti Rahil , Haghpanah Sezaneh , Azarkeivan Azita , Hoofar Hamid , Eslami Masoomeh
Published: July 2009

Background

Beta thalassemia is one of the most common genetic disorders in the world. The aim of this study was to determine the frequency, characteristics, and pattern of malignancies in patients with beta thalassemia major (BTM) and beta thalassemia intermedia (BTI) in Iran.

Methods

We conducted a multicenter study via a retrospective chart review of patients with BTM and BTI between 2002 and 2007 in four thalassemia centers in Iran. A total of 4,630 records of patients with thalassemia were evaluated. Statistical analyses were done with SPSS software v. 15. P‐values <0.05 were considered significant.

Results

We detected 11 patients with beta thalassemia who also had malignant disease. Five patients (45.4%) were diagnosed with lymphoma and five with leukemia. The proportion of patients with cancer was higher in those with BTI. Cancer was diagnosed in patients with thalassemia aged 0–39 years, but not in any of the older patients. In patients with thalassemia overall and in patients with BTI, the highest age‐specific rate of cancer incidence was seen in children <10 years old, whereas in the BTM group the highest incidence was observed in patients 20–29 years old. There were no statistically significant differences between patients with BTM and BTI and cancer regarding age, sex, splenectomy, hemoglobin, ferritin level, or malignancy type.

Conclusion

The coexistence of malignancy and beta thalassemia is not rare. Any alarming signs and symptoms including worsening anemia, splenomegaly, or lymphadenopathy should be a motive for concern because these symptoms may signal malignant disease. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009;53:1064–1067. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Imaging and spectroscopic findings in meningioangiomatosis
Authors: Rokes Christopher , Ketonen Leena M. , Fuller Greg N. , Weinberg Jeffrey , Slopis John M. , Wolff Johannes E.A.
Published: July 2009

Meningioangiomatosis (MA) is an uncommon brain tumor. The role of imaging techniques is underscored in cases where the tumor location makes resection (or even biopsy) dangerous. We report the case of a child with an MA tumor located deep in the right sylvian fissure. A computed tomography (CT) scan showed calcifications in a highly vascular lesion with surrounding edema. Magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) showed a distinct choline (Cho) peak, which usually suggests a proliferating tumor. Fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (FDG‐PET) showed the lesion lacked hypermetabolic features. These radiological features should put MA in the differential diagnosis. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2009;53:672–674. © 2009 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Study of dual responsive poly[(maleilated dextran)‐graft‐(N‐isopropylacrylamide)] hydrogel nanoparticles: preparation, characterization and biological evaluation
Authors: Li Fei , Wu Hong , Fan Li , Zhang Haitao , Zhang Hui , Gu Chunhu
Published: July 2009

BACKGROUND: Much interest has recently been shown in fundamental studies and technological developments of polymeric nanoparticles. Novel dual temperature‐ and pH‐sensitive stabilized nanoparticles composed of maleilated dextran (Dex‐MA) and N‐isopropylacrylamide (NIPAAm) were prepared and investigated to be used for the controlled release of 10‐hydroxycamptothecin.

RESULTS: The resultant nanoparticles showed spherical geometry, with diameters ranging from 60 to 300 nm, the variation achieved by adjusting the composition ratio or the amounts of surfactant. The size of the nanoparticles increased and the zeta potential reversed with an increase of pH. Also, the lower critical solution temperature (LCST) decreased at pH = 3.0, but increased at pH = 6.0, which suggests that the LCST is dependent on pH. Drug release results obtained showed encapsulation and loading efficiencies were 62.9% and 0.82%, respectively. Cytotoxicity assay of this copolymer indicated no significant toxicity.

CONCLUSION: Novel dual temperature‐ and pH‐sensitive Dex‐MA‐graft‐PNIPAAm nanoparticles may provide some advantages for anti‐cancer drug delivery due to a tunable LCST from 35 to 45 °C and controllable dimensions. These nanoscale materials could be excellent candidates for biotechnology and biomedical applications. Copyright © 2009 Society of Chemical Industry
Proteomic analysis of irregular, bullet‐shaped magnetosomes in the sulphate‐reducing magnetotactic bacterium Desulfovibrio magneticus RS‐1
Authors: Matsunaga Tadashi , Nemoto Michiko , Arakaki Atsushi , Tanaka Masayoshi
Published: July 2009

Recent molecular studies on magnetotactic bacteria have identified a number of proteins associated with bacterial magnetites (magnetosomes) and elucidated their importance in magnetite biomineralisation. However, these analyses were limited to magnetotactic bacterial strains belonging to the α‐subclass of Proteobacteria. We performed a proteomic analysis of magnetosome membrane proteins in Desulfovibrio magneticus strain RS‐1, which is phylogenetically classified as a member of the δ‐Proteobacteria. In the analysis, the identified proteins were classified based on their putative functions and compared with the proteins from the other magnetotactic bacteria, Magnetospirillum magneticum AMB‐1 and M. gryphiswaldense MSR‐1. Three magnetosome‐specific proteins, MamA (Mms24), MamK, and MamM, were identified in strains RS‐1, AMB‐1, and MSR‐1. Furthermore, genes encoding ten magnetosome membrane proteins, including novel proteins, were assigned to a putative magnetosome island that contains subsets of genes essential for magnetosome formation. The collagen‐like protein and putative iron‐binding proteins, which are considered to play key roles in magnetite crystal formation, were identified as specific proteins in strain RS‐1. Furthermore, genes encoding two homologous proteins of Magnetococcus MC‐1 were assigned to a cryptic plasmid of strain RS‐1. The newly identified magnetosome membrane proteins might contribute to the formation of the unique irregular, bullet‐shaped crystals in this microorganism.
O‐Glycosylated 24 kDa human growth hormone has a mucin‐like biantennary disialylated tetrasaccharide attached at Thr‐60
Authors: Bustamante Juan J. , Gonzalez Leticia , Carroll Christopher A. , Weintraub Susan T. , Aguilar Roberto M. , Muñoz Jesus , Martinez Andrew O. , Haro Luis S.
Published: July 2009

MS was used to characterize the 24 kDa human growth hormone (hGH) glycoprotein isoform and determine the locus ofO‐linked oligosaccharide attachment, the oligosaccharide branching topology, and the monosaccharide sequence. MALDI‐TOF/MS and ESI‐MS/MS analyses of glycosylated 24 kDa hGH tryptic peptides showed that this hGH isoform is a product of the hGH normal gene. Analysis of the glycoprotein hydrolysate by high‐performance anion‐exchange chromatography with pulsed amperometric detection and HPLC with fluorescent detection forN‐acetyl neuraminic acid (NeuAc) yielded the oligosaccharide composition (NeuAc2,N‐acetyl galactosamine1, Gal1). After β‐elimination to release the oligosaccharide from glycosylated 24 kDa hGH, collision‐induced dissociation of tryptic glycopeptide T6 indicated that there had been anO‐linked oligosaccharide attached to Thr‐60. The sequence and branching structure of the oligosaccharide were determined by ESI‐MS/MS analysis of tryptic glycopeptide T6. The mucin‐likeO‐oligosaccharide sequence linked to Thr‐60 begins withN‐acetyl galactosamine and branches in a bifurcated topology with one appendage consisting of galactose followed by NeuAc and the other consisting of a single NeuAc. The oligosaccharide moiety lies in the high‐affinity binding site 1 structural epitope of hGH that interfaces with both the growth hormone and the prolactin receptors and is predicted to sterically affect receptor interactions and alter the biological actions of hGH.
Cationic oligopeptides with the repeating sequence L‐lysyl‐L‐alanyl‐L‐alanine: conformational and thermal stability study using optical spectroscopic methods
Authors: Setnička Vladimír , Hlaváček Jan , Urbanová Marie
Published: July 2009

The infrared (IR), vibrational circular dichroism (VCD), and electronic circular dichroism (ECD) spectra of short cationic sequential peptides (L‐Lys‐L‐Ala‐L‐Ala)n (n = 1, 2, and 3) were measured over a range of temperatures (20–90 °C) in aqueous solution at near‐neutral pH values in order to investigate their solution conformations and thermally induced conformational changes. VCD spectra of all three oligopeptides measured in the amide I′ region indicate the presence of extended helical polyproline II (PPII)‐like conformation at room temperature. UV‐ECD spectra confirmed this conclusion. Thus, the oligopeptides adopt a PPII‐like conformation, independent of the length of the peptide chain. However, the optimized dihedral angles ϕ and ψ are within the range −82 to −107° and 143–154°, respectively, and differ from the canonical PPII values. At elevated temperatures, the observed intensity and bandshape variations in the VCD and ECD spectra show that the PPII‐like conformation of the Lys‐Ala‐Ala sequence is still preferred, being in equilibrium with an unordered conformer at near‐neutral pH values within the range of temperatures from 20 to 90 °C. This finding was obtained from analysis of the temperature‐dependent spectra using the singular value decomposition method. The study presents KAA‐containing oligopeptides as conformationally stable models of biologically important cationic peptides and proteins. Copyright © 2009 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Screening for glucose‐triggered modifications of glutathione
Authors: Jerić Ivanka , Horvat Štefica
Published: July 2009

Nonenzymatic protein glycation is caused by a Schiff's base reaction between the aldehyde groups of reducing sugars and the primary amines of proteins. These structures may undergo further Amadori rearrangement and free radical‐mediated oxidation to finally generate irreversible advanced glycation end products (AGEs). One of the factors known to modulate the glycation of proteins is glutathione, the most abundant nonprotein thiol tripeptide with the γ‐linkage, H‐Glu(Cys‐Gly‐OH)‐OH (GSH). Screening for products formed by GSH with D‐glucose is an essential step in understanding the participation of GSH in glycation (the Maillard) reaction. Under the conditions used in these studies we observed N‐(1‐deoxy‐D‐fructos‐1‐yl)‐pyroglutamic acid as the major glycation product formed in the mixtures of GSH and glucose in vitro. A RP HPLC/MS and tandem MS analyses of the GSH/glucose mixtures revealed that cleavage of the N‐terminal glutamic acid and the formation of pyroglutamic acid‐related Amadori product were accompanied by generation of Cys‐Gly‐derived Amadori and thiazolidine compounds. Copyright © 2009 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A statistical model for the dependence between progression‐free survival and overall survival
Authors: Fleischer Frank , Gaschler‐Markefski Birgit , Bluhmki Erich
Published: July 2009

Among the surrogate endpoints for overall survival (OS) in oncology trials, progression‐free survival (PFS) is more and more taking the leading role. Although there have been some empirical investigations on the dependence structure between OS and PFS (in particular between the median OS and the median PFS), statistical models are almost non‐existing. This paper aims at filling this gap by introducing an easy‐to‐handle model based on exponential time‐to‐event distributions that describe the dependence structure between OS and PFS. Based on this model, explicit formulae for individual correlations are derived together with a lower bound for the correlation of OS and PFS, which is given by the fraction of the two medians for OS and PFS. Two methods on how to estimate the parameter of the model from real data are discussed. One method is based on a maximum‐likelihood estimator whereas the other method uses a plug‐in approach. Three examples from non‐small cell lung cancer are considered. In the first example, the parameters of the model are determined and the estimated survival curce is compared with the observed one. The second example explains how to obtain sample size estimates for OS based on assumptions on median PFS and OS. Finally, the third example provides a way of modelling and quantifying confounding effects that might explain a levelling of differences in OS although a difference in PFS is observed. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Incremental dynamic analysis of steel braced frames designed based on the first, second and third editions of the Iranian seismic code (standard no. 2800)
Authors: Asgarian Behrouz , Jalaeefar Ali
Published: July 2009

Incremental dynamic analysis (IDA) is an emerging method in structural analysis which allows evaluation of seismic capacity and demand of structures through a series of nonlinear dynamic analyses using multiple scaled ground motion records.

Seismic behaviour of concentrically braced frames designed based on the first, second and third revisions of the Iranian seismic code, standard no. 2800, has been evaluated through IDA in the present paper. Besides, a brief comparison is made between seismic behaviour of these frames, frames with different heights and different bracing types. Seismic capacity and limit states of such structures have been reviewed through the paper.

The IDA results imply that frames designed with the first edition are seriously vulnerable and fail before reaching the acceleration levels predicted in the code. On the other hand, frames designed with the second and third editions, although behaving better, need partial reinforcement in some cases.

Other results of this study show that chevron braced frames behave seismically better than X‐braced ones. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The effect of spatial dispersion of wind power plants on the curtailment of wind power in the Greek power supply system
Authors: Caralis George , Rados Kostas , Zervos Arthouros
Published: July 2009

To meet the national target of 29% for electricity production from renewable energy sources by 2020 in Greece, effective implementation of massive wind power installed capacity into the power supply system is required. In such a situation, the effective absorption of wind energy production is an important issue in a relatively small and weak power system such as that of Greece, which has limited existing interconnections with neighboring countries. The curtailment of wind power is sometimes necessary in autonomous systems with large wind energy penetration. The absorption or curtailment of wind power is strongly affected by the spatial dispersion of wind power installations. In the present paper, a methodology for estimating this effect is presented and applied for the power supply system of Greece. The method is based on probability theory, and makes use of wind forecasting models to represent the wind energy potential over any candidate area for future wind farm installations in the country. Moreover, technical constraints imposed by the power supply system management, the commitment of power plants and the load dispatch strategies are taken into account to maximize the wind energy penetration levels while ensuring reliable operation of the system. Representative wind power development scenarios are studied and evaluated. Results show that the spatial dispersion of wind power plants contributes beneficially to the wind energy penetration levels that can be accepted by the power system. Copyright © 2009 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The minimization of a maximum‐norm functional subject to an elliptic PDE and state constraints
Authors: Prüfert U. , Schiela A.
Published: July 2009

We study the optimal control of a maximum‐norm objective functional subjected to an elliptic‐type PDE and pointwise state constraints. The problem is transformed into a problem where the non‐differentiable maximum‐norm in the functional will be replaced by a scalar variable and additional state constraints. This problem is solved by barrier methods. We will show the existence and convergence of the central path for a class of barrier functions. Numerical experiments complete the presentation.
Mathematical analysis of rotor shaft displacements in asynchronous machines; a critical speed or just a rotation of the orbit axis?
Authors: Werner U.
Published: July 2009

This paper presents a mathematical analysis of rotor shaft displacements in asynchronous machines caused by different types of rotor eccentricity. Based on a simplified rotor model, the theoretical coherence between electromagnetic, rotor dynamic, and the specific characteristics of sleeve bearings is shown. The orbits of the rotor mass and the shaft journal are mathematically described for each kind of eccentricity and the shaft displacement with respect to two virtual fixed sensors is derived. Based on this theoretical description and on a numerical example, the paper shows that focusing in a theoretical rotor dynamic analysis only on the calculated amplitudes in direction of two fixed sensor positions, may lead to wrong conclusions concerning the evaluation of resonances. The aim of this paper is, based on a simplified rotor model, to show the mathematical coherence concerning typical rotor eccentricities in asynchronous machines and to demonstrate the necessity to focus not only on the amplitudes relative to two fixed sensor positions, but to also consider the semi‐major axis of the calculated orbit and its angular position. The aim of the paper is not to replace a detailed finite element rotor dynamic analysis by a simplified analytical rotor model for predicting the real shaft vibrations. The intension is to prepare the basis for adopting the conclusions, derived from a simplified analytical model, into a more detailed rotor dynamic model – e.g. a finite element rotor dynamic model – and therefore to derive a more precise theoretical analysis of the real shaft displacements.
Numerical solution of multi‐term fractional differential equations
Authors: Katsikadelis J.T.
Published: July 2009

A numerical solution method is presented for linear multi‐term fractional differential equations (FDEs) with variable coefficients. The presented method is based on the concept of the analog equation, which converts the multi‐term FDE into a single term FDE with a fictitious source (right hand inhomogeneous term). The fictitious source is established from the integral representation of the solution of the substitute single term equation. The constructed algorithms are stable. Their accuracy depends only on the truncation and round‐off errors, which, however, negligibly influence the accuracy. The method is demonstrated by the one‐ and two‐term FDEs. The developed algorithms apply also to systems of multi‐term FDEs. Several examples are presented, which demonstrate the efficiency and the accuracy of the proposed method. The method is straightforward extended to nonlinear FDEs.
Magnetoresistance in Sn-Doped In2O3Nanowires
Authors: Berengue Olívia M , Lanfredi AlexandreJC , Pozzi Livia P , Rey JoséFQ , Leite Edson R , Chiquito Adenilson J
Published: July 2009

In this work, we present transport measurements of individual Sn-doped In2O3nanowires as a function of temperature and magnetic field. The results showed a localized character of the resistivity at low temperatures as evidenced by the presence of a negative temperature coefficient resistance in temperatures lower than 77 K. The weak localization was pointed as the mechanism responsible by the negative temperature coefficient of the resistance at low temperatures.
Ferrocene‐Based Cationic Surfactants: Surface and Antimicrobial Properties
Authors: Hafiz Amal A. , Badawi A. M. , El‐Deeb F. I. , Soliman E. A. , El‐Awady M. Y. , Mohamed D. E.
Published: July 2009

A novel series of ferrocenyl surfactants was synthesized by the reaction of ferrocene disulfonic acid with different primary and tertiary fatty amines to produce the corresponding ammonium salts Fc[SO3−+NH3(CH2)nCH3]2, where n = 9, 11, or 15 and Fc[SO3− +NH(CH3)2(CH2)nCH3]2, where n = 7 or 11, respectively, and where Fc = ferrocene. Chemical structures were confirmed by microelemental analysis, FTIR, and 1H NMR spectroscopy. The critical micelle concentration of each prepared surfactant was determined using equilibrium surface tension. Furthermore, air/water interface parameters including effectiveness (πCMC), efficiency (Pc20), maximum surface excess (Гmax), and minimum surface area (Amin) were determined at 30, 40, and 50 °C. Thermodynamic parameters (ΔG°, ΔS°, and ΔH°) for both micellization and adsorption processes were recorded. The new synthesized surfactants were screened as antimicrobial agents against different bacterial and fungal organisms.
Involvement of Lipids in Dimethoate‐Induced Inhibition of Testosterone Biosynthesis in Rat Interstitial Cells
Authors: Astiz Mariana , Hurtado de Catalfo Graciela E. , de Alaniz María J. T. , Marra Carlos Alberto
Published: July 2009

The mechanism involved in the inhibition of testosterone (Te) biosynthesis after a sub‐chronic exposure to low doses of dimethoate (D) was studied in rat interstitial cells (IC). Expression of COX‐2 in IC isolated from D‐treated rats increased by 44% over C data, while transcription of StAR decreased by approx. 50% and the expression of this protein was diminished by approximately 40%. PGE2 and PGF2α were increased by 61 and 78%, respectively. Te concentration decreased by 49% in IC homogenates. Concomitantly, plasma concentration of LH and FSH both increased. Araquidonate (ARA) and C22 fatty acyl chains in phospholipids from IC mitochondrial fraction decreased by approx. 30% after D treatment. Protein carbonyls, lipoperoxides and nitrite content increased while α‐tocopherol and the antioxidant capacity of the soluble cellular fraction decreased significantly. Stimulation with h‐CG 10 nM overnight failed to overcome the inhibition caused by D on both Te biosynthesis and 3β‐ and 17β‐hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases. Decreased Te biosynthesis may be attributed to (1) inhibition of StAR protein activity due to the stimulation of COX‐2 and the overproduction of PGF2α, (2) decreased stimulatory effect of ARA on StAR with a subsequent reduction in the availability of CHO for the androgenic pathway, and/or (3) indirect inhibition of steroidogenic enzymes by a lower transcriptional rate caused by elevated PGF2α. Rofecoxib administration prevents the deleterious effect(s) exerted by D.
Association of ER‐Alpha Gene Polymorphism with Metabolic Phenotypes in Chinese Hans
Authors: Chen Yan , Jiang Xiao‐yan , Xu Li , Li Xia , Cao Fei‐fei , Li Lei , Lu Ming , Jin Li , Wang Xiao‐feng
Published: July 2009

Recently, two polymorphisms (rs1884052 and rs3778099) of estrogen receptor α (ER‐alpha) gene were identified as being associated with primary quantitative bone mineral density (BMD) in a genome‐wide association (GWA) study in Framingham cohorts. In this study we aimed at investigating the association of rs1884052 and rs3778099, and another polymorphism (rs2234693) located at intron 1 of the ER‐alpha gene with BMD, body mass index (BMI), glucose, triglyceride, and total cholesterol (CHO) levels in Chinese Hans. We recruited 425 consecutive adult volunteers who had a physical examination in the Jinan Maternity and Child Care Hospital. We did not observe significant association of rs1884052 and rs3778099 with BMD, BMI, glucose, triglyceride, and total cholesterol (CHO) levels. For rs2234693, increased levels of BMD for hip, spine or whole‐body regions were consistently observed in TT/TC genotype carriers than in CC genotype carriers, although the board line significance diminished after adjusting for age and gender. However, significant association of rs2234693 with glucose and CHO levels were observed in our sample. Subjects with TC/CC genotypes were associated with an increased level of glucose (p = 0.013) and CHO (p = 0.032) levels than subjects with TT genotypes. In conclusion, we did not confirm the association of rs1884052 and rs3778099 with BMD originally discovered in a GWA study; however, we made novel discoveries that rs2234693 was associated with glucose and CHO levels in Chinese Hans.
Variations in Fatty Acids, Phospholipids and Sterols During the Seed Development of a High Oleic Sunflower Variety
Authors: Zlatanov M. D. , Angelova‐Romova M. J. , Antova G. A. , Dimitrova R. D. , Momchilova S. M. , Nikolova‐Damyanova Boryana M.
Published: July 2009

The changes in the content and composition of total fatty acids, phospholipids and sterol esters, and their fatty acids, and of free sterols and tocopherols in developing seeds of a selection of high oleic acid sunflower varieties grown in Bulgaria were examined over a period of 15th to 90th day after flowering by means of various chromatographic methods. Under the climatic and geographical conditions typical for the South‐East Balkans phospholipid, sterol‐, sterol ester‐ and tocopherol‐ species are formed practically completely in the first 15 days after flowering. Until the 90th day, only quantitative changes were detected to give a product with 65% oil content, 1% phospholipids, 0.3% total sterols and 0.09% tocopherols. Oleic acid is the main component in all acyl derivatives, reaching 85% of the total fatty acids while palmitic and stearic acid content is about 4% each. The product is a good quality HOSO with beneficial content of FA and good prospects as a salad and cooking oil.
Roi mineur et naissance de La majesté dans Les discours auliques
Authors: Gabriel Frédéric
Published: July 2009

Les nombreux traités sur la raison d’État relèvent d’un genre qui théorise a posteriori les actions politiques. Ne serait-il pas possible pour la raison d’État de s’exprimer directement et publiquement? Comment est-elle mise en scène par l’État lui-même? La littérature aulique, avec une fine dialectique de l’imitation et de l’idéalité, propose un abondant matériau exemplaire de cette manifestation comme représentation, d’autant plus significative quand elle concerne les interrègnes. La minorité du Dauphin, son sacre et la cérémonie de majorité sont des moments essentiels auxquels s’attache la rhétorique de l’éloge et pendant lesquels l’État institue en lui la raison et sa raison: une raison d’État encomiastique.
Machiavélisme et Staats Raison au XVIIIe siècle, d'après L'Universal-Lexikon de Zedler
Authors: Senellart Michel
Published: July 2009

Cet article examine la façon dont le Grosses vollstandiges Universal-Lexikon, publié par Johann Heinrich Zedler de 1732 à 1750 et considéré comme la plus importante encyclopédie de langue allemande de son temps, accueille et réaménage la doctrine classique de la raison d'État. À rebours de l'interprétation selon laquelle la conception de l'État développée par le Lexikon s'inscrirait dans une pure logique jusnaturaliste, il met en évidence la permanence, parallèlement au droit naturel wolffien, d'une tradition prudentielle de pensée politique. Le Lexikon, contemporain de l’Antimachiavel de Frédéric Il, apparaît ainsi comme le miroir fidèle des tendances hétérogènes qui dessinent alors le champ de problématisation de la raison d’État.
Le « modèle germanique » français
Authors: Lefebvre Armelle
Published: July 2009

Le concept d’Allemagne permet de révéler, selon une approche« misologique », l’ampleur des désaccords ayant présidé à la définition du concept d’État en France. De ce dernier, l’on aborde divers emplois qu’illustrent des modèles d’État. Le « modèle germanique » opère ainsi dans un débat qui est le creuset de la connaissance politique moderne, avec ses apories: celles de la souveraineté externe, de l’ordre interétatique, de la confédération. L’article expose alors la relation entre les théories du droit public et la « continuité des assemblées »; d’une certaine manière, le fondement de l’ordre politique. Au final, le droit public apparaît comme le transfert du pouvoir temporel à l’instituant, au collectif, et son affaiblissement, comme la raison d’être de l’étatisme.
La ragion di Stato in biblioteca
Authors: Stango Cristina
Published: July 2009

La Fondazione Luigi Firpo di Torino conserva la biblioteca raccolta da Luigi Firpo ( 1915-1989), grande studioso del pensiero politico della prima età modema. Ne fanno parte circa 6000 volumi dei secoli XVI-XVIII, fra i quali quasi tutta la letteratura europea sulla ragion di Stato. La Fondazione organizza convegni intemazionali, assegna borse di studio e pubblica i lavori di giovani studiosi. Si è cosi affermata corne uno dei maggiori punti di riferimento per le ricerche sui pensiero politico e la storia generale dell'età modema e contemporanea.
La République, L'affaire Dreyfus et La raison d'État
Authors: Audier Serge
Published: July 2009

On dit souvent que l’affaire Dreyfus a été un moment clé dans l’histoire du républicanisme français. Mais le sens philosophique de ce tournant reste à élucider. Il n’est pas sûr, en effet, que le discours républicain se réduise alors à une apologie de l’individu et de la justice contre la raison d’État. L’objectif de cet article est d’analyser les arguments mobilisés dans le camp dreyfusard par certaines figures du socialisme républicain, comme Jean Jaurès, ou du républicanisme comme Alfred Fouillée et Émile Durkheim notamment. L’examen des positions de Célestin Bouglé, jeune sociologue proche de Durkheim, est ici privilégié: il se situe, par sa biographie et son oeuvre, au carrefour des diverses tendances, du positivisme au néo-criticisme.
Changes in maternal depression are associated with MST outcomes for adolescents with co‐occurring externalizing and internalizing problems
Authors: Grimbos Teresa , Granic Isabela
Published: July 2009

The efficacy of Multisystemic therapy (MST) in treating adolescent aggression has been established, however, not all youth and their families benefit from MST. One reason for this treatment variability could be the failure to distinguish between different aggressive subtypes with different risk factors, developmental prognoses and treatment needs. We investigated whether changes in maternal depression over MST would lead to different outcomes for two aggressive subtypes: pure externalizers (EXT) and mixed externalizers/internalizers (MIXED). Forty‐two EXT and 27 MIXED youth and their families underwent MST for six months. Maternal depression, youth externalizing and internalizing behaviour were assessed before and after MST. Results showed a marginally greater change in externalizing for EXT youth. In addition, reductions in maternal depression were related to successful treatment outcomes for MIXED youth only. Our findings have implications for MST clinicians, namely the importance of reducing depressive symptoms in mothers of MIXED youth to improve their outcomes.