bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness of the soluble form of the interleukin‐1 receptor accessory protein as an inhibitor of interleukin‐1 in collagen‐induced arthritis
Authors: Smeets R. L. , van de Loo F. A. J. , Joosten L. A. B. , Arntz O. J. , Bennink M. B. , Loesberg W. A. , Dmitriev I. P. , Curiel D. T. , Martin M. U. , van den Berg W. B.
Published: June 2004

Objective

To investigate whether the soluble form of interleukin‐1 (IL‐1) receptor accessory protein (sIL‐1RAcP), whose physiologic function remains to be established, can serve as a specific inhibitor of IL‐1 signaling in vitro, and to evaluate its applicability in collagen‐induced arthritis (CIA).

Methods

Soluble IL‐1RAcP was cloned from murine liver complementary DNA and expressed by the use of either an adenoviral vector (AdRGD) for sIL‐1RAcP or a stable‐transfected NIH3T3 fibroblast cell line. The ability of affinity‐purified sIL‐1RAcP to inhibit IL‐1 signaling was tested on NF‐κB luciferase reporter fibroblasts and quantified by luminometer. To investigate therapeutic efficacy, sIL‐1RAcP was both locally (knee joint) and systemically overexpressed in collagen‐immunized male DBA/1 mice. Severity of arthritis was monitored visually, and the pathologic process in the joint was examined histologically. Serum was obtained from mice to quantify IL‐6 and anti–bovine type II collagen (BCII) antibody levels.

Results

Incubation of the NF‐κB reporter fibroblast with purified sIL‐1RAcP protein showed a marked reduction of IL‐1–induced, but not tumor necrosis factor–induced, NF‐κB activation. This showed a novel role for sIL‐1RAcP as a specific inhibitor of IL‐1 signaling. Local transplantation of sIL‐1RAcP–producing NIH3T3 fibroblasts into the knee before onset of CIA had little or no effect on general disease severity in these mice. Histologic evaluation of the knee joints receiving sIL‐1RAcP cell transplantation showed a marked reduction in both joint inflammation and bone and cartilage erosion. Local treatment with sIL‐1RAcP had no profound effect on serum levels of IL‐6 and anti‐BCII antibodies, which is indicative of the ongoing presence of arthritis in distal joints. In contrast to local treatment, systemic treatment with the AdRGD for sIL‐1RAcP markedly ameliorated CIA in all joints.

Conclusion

In this study we demonstrated that sIL‐1RAcP is a biologically active and innovative inhibitor of IL‐1, and treatment of mice with sIL‐1RAcP had a profound prophylactic effect on collagen‐induced arthritis.
Temperament and stress response in children with juvenile primary fibromyalgia syndrome
Authors: Conte Paola M. , Walco Gary A. , Kimura Yukiko
Published: June 2004

Objective

To examine temperament, stress response, child psychological adjustment, family environment, pain sensitivity, and stress response differences between children and adolescents with juvenile primary fibromyalgia syndrome (JPFMS), children with arthritis, and healthy controls. Parental psychological adjustment was also measured.

Methods

Subjects included 16 children with JPFMS, 16 children with arthritis, and 16 healthy controls. Participants completed the Dimensions of Temperament Survey‐Revised (DOTS‐R), State‐Trait Anxiety Inventory, Children's Depression Inventory, Family Environment Scale (FES), Sensitivity Temperament Inventory for Pain (STIP), and Youth Self‐Report. Responsiveness to an acute stressor was assessed by measuring salivary cortisol levels before and after venipuncture. Parents were asked to complete the parent versions of the DOTS‐R, FES, STIP, Child Behavior Checklist, and Symptom Checklist‐90‐Revised.

Results

Children and adolescents with JPFMS demonstrated more temperamental instability, increased levels of depression and anxiety, less family cohesion, and higher pain sensitivity compared with the other 2 groups. Parents of children with JPFMS, in rating themselves, also reported higher levels of anxiety and depression, and lower overall psychological adjustment compared with parents of children in the other groups.

Conclusion

These results suggest that a psychobiologic perspective may contribute to an increased understanding of JPFMS in children and adolescents, facilitating an approach to investigating the interaction of factors that appear to place a child at risk for development of a pain syndrome. Because temperamental instability, sensitivity to pain, vulnerability to stress, psychological adjustment, family context, and parental psychopathology are individual risk factors, the interaction of these factors may explain the breadth of symptoms associated with this pain syndrome, as well as its severity.
Accelerated, aging‐dependent development of osteoarthritis in α1 integrin–deficient mice
Authors: Zemmyo Michihisa , Meharra E. John , Kühn Klaus , Creighton‐Achermann Lilo , Lotz Martin
Published: June 2004

Objective

Cell–matrix interactions regulate chondrocyte differentiation and survival. The α1β1 integrin is a major collagen receptor that is expressed on chondrocytes. Mice with targeted inactivation of the integrin α1 gene (α1‐KO mice) provide a model that can be used to address the role of cell–matrix interactions in cartilage homeostasis and osteoarthritis (OA) pathogenesis.

Methods

Knee joints from α1‐KO and wild‐type (WT) BALB/c mice were harvested at ages 4–15 months. Knee joint sections were examined for inflammation, cartilage degradation, and loss of glycosaminoglycans (by Safranin O staining). Immunohistochemistry was performed to detect the distribution of α1 integrin, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), and chondrocyte apoptosis.

Results

In WT mice, the α1 integrin subunit was detected in hypertrophic chondrocytes in the growth plate and in a subpopulation of cells in the deep zone of articular cartilage. There was a marked increase in α1‐positive chondrocytes in the superficial and upper mid‐zones in OA‐affected areas in joints from old WT mice. The α1‐KO mice showed more severe cartilage degradation, glycosaminoglycan depletion, and synovial hyperplasia as compared with the WT mice. MMP‐2 and MMP‐3 expression was increased in the OA‐affected areas. In cartilage from α1‐KO mice, the cellularity was reduced and the frequency of apoptotic cells was increased. These results suggest that the α1 integrin subunit is involved in the early remodeling process in OA cartilage.

Conclusion

Deficiency in the α1 integrin subunit is associated with an earlier deregulation of cartilage homeostasis and an accelerated, aging‐dependent development of OA.
Periarticular lesions detected on magnetic resonance imaging: Prevalence in knees with and without symptoms
Authors: Hill Catherine L. , Gale Daniel R. , Chaisson Christine E. , Skinner Katherine , Kazis Lewis , Gale M. Elon , Felson David T.
Published: June 2004

Objective

To evaluate, using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), the prevalence of periarticular lesions in older persons with or without knee pain, and to assess the association of these lesions with knee pain.

Methods

Subjects ages 45 years and older, with or without knee pain, were recruited from Veterans Affairs medical centers and from the community. Weight‐bearing posteroanterior, skyline, and lateral radiographs were obtained in all subjects. Subjects were divided into 3 groups: those with radiographic OA (ROA) and knee pain (n = 376), those with ROA and no knee pain (n = 51), and those with neither ROA nor knee pain (n = 24). A single knee (the more symptomatic one in subjects with knee pain) was imaged with a 1.5T scanner using T1‐ and T2‐weighted and proton‐density spin‐echo imaging sequences. MRIs were read for the presence of periarticular lesions, which were categorized (according to their general location) as being either peripatellar (prepatellar, superficial infrapatellar, deep infrapatellar) or “other periarticular lesions” (semimembranosus–tibial collateral ligament bursitis, anserine bursitis, iliotibial band syndrome, tibiofibular cyst).

Results

Patients with knee pain had more severe radiographic disease than did subjects who were asymptomatic. Peripatellar lesions (prepatellar or superficial infrapatellar) were present in 12.1% of the patients with knee pain and ROA, in 20.5% of the patients with ROA and no knee pain, and in 0% of subjects with neither ROA nor knee pain (P = 0.116). However, other periarticular lesions were present in 14.9% of patients with both ROA and knee pain, in only 3.9% of patients with ROA but no knee pain, and in 0% of the group with no knee pain and no ROA (P = 0.004).

Conclusion

Although peripatellar lesions are equally common among subjects with knee pain and those without knee pain, other periarticular lesions (including bursitis and iliotibial band syndrome) are significantly more common among subjects with knee pain and may contribute to pain in these individuals.
Dependence on interferon‐γ for the spontaneous occurrence of arthritis in DBA/1 mice
Authors: Matthys Patrick , Lories Rik J. , Bert De Klerck  , Heremans Hubertine , Luyten Frank P. , Billiau Alfons
Published: June 2004

Objective

Male DBA/1 mice are known to spontaneously develop arthritis in the hind legs. The present study was undertaken to investigate the role of endogenous interferon‐γ (IFNγ) in the pathogenesis of this ankylosing enthesopathy.

Methods

The role of IFNγ was studied by examining the development of arthritis in IFNγ receptor–knockout (IFNγR‐KO) DBA/1 mice as compared with wild‐type mice, and by treatment of wild‐type mice with monoclonal anti‐IFNγ antibody. IFNγ‐disrupted and wild‐type mice were mixed and housed in the same cage, and clinical symptoms of arthritis were assessed weekly for at least 9 weeks. Histologic examination was performed at the end of the experiment.

Results

In DBA/1 wild‐type mice, 70% of the animals developed clinical symptoms of spontaneous arthritis, such as redness and swelling of the proximal interphalangeal joints, toe stiffness, and ankylosis. As evident from microscopic evaluation, the arthritis was mainly characterized by formation of new cartilage and bone, originating at the entheses and leading to ankylosis. The incidence and severity of arthritis, both clinically and histologically, were significantly reduced in IFNγR‐KO mice. In wild‐type mice, neutralizing anti‐IFNγ antibody inhibited the occurrence of the disease for the duration of treatment.

Conclusion

The results suggest that endogenous IFNγ plays an important role in the initial stages of spontaneous arthritis, and that the inflammatory components in its pathogenesis are more prominent than has been believed. In view of the similarity between this disease and spondylarthropathies in humans, the data suggest that endogenous IFNγ may also play a disease‐promoting role in the human condition and thus may serve as a target for therapy.
Urinary type II collagen neoepitope as an outcome measure for relapsing polychondritis
Authors: Kraus Virginia B. , Stabler Thomas , Le Elizabeth T. , Saltarelli Mary , Allen Nancy B.
Published: June 2004

Herein we describe the case of a man who was diagnosed as having relapsing polychondritis (RP) when he was 18 years of age and was treated over the course of 2 years with numerous immunosuppressive agents, including tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) inhibitors. His respiratory symptoms were refractory to treatment. Serum and urine samples were obtained periodically for measurement of erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C‐reactive protein (CRP) levels, anti–type II collagen (anti‐CII) antibodies, and urinary type II collagen neoepitope (uTIINE) levels. The uTIINE assay is specific for collagenase cleavage products CII present in urine. ESRs and CRP levels varied widely but were rarely normal. Anti‐CII antibody titers were high initially and decreased slowly and steadily for a year following the start of immunosuppressive medication, remaining low throughout the remainder of the patient's monitored disease course. The uTIINE levels were elevated prior to the initiation of TNFα inhibitors. Upon initiation of etanercept, they decreased abruptly to normal and stayed nearly normal. The uTIINE levels rose abruptly again upon discontinuation of TNFα inhibitor treatment. The dramatic decline in CII degradation, coincident with the administration of the TNFα inhibitors, suggested that this treatment dramatically reduced the chondritis. Serum levels of Th1 cytokines (interferon‐γ, interleukin‐12 [IL‐12], and IL‐2) paralleled changes in uTIINE levels, while those of Th2 cytokines (IL‐4, IL‐5, IL‐6, and IL‐10) showed little or no association with disease state or uTIINE levels. These results indicate that RP might be a Th1‐mediated disease process. Moreover, the uTIINE assay appears to provide an objective measure of the severity of chondritis that could assist clinical decisions regarding adjustments of steroid and other immunosuppressive therapy. This outcome measure merits investigation in a broader spectrum of RP patients.
Galectin 3 and its binding protein in rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Ohshima Shiro , Kuchen Stefan , Seemayer Christian A. , Kyburz Diego , Hirt Astrid , Klinzing Stephanie , Michel Beat A. , Gay Renate E. , Liu Fu‐Tong , Gay Steffen , Neidhart Michel
Published: June 2004

Objective

To characterize the expression pattern and role of galectin 3 and galectin 3 binding protein (G3BP) in rheumatoid arthritis (RA), in comparison with galectin 1, and to explore whether soluble galectin 3 and G3BP, investigated in serum, synovial fluid, or cell culture supernatant, are associated with disease.

Methods

Synovial tissues from patients with RA or osteoarthritis (OA), as well as from healthy controls, were analyzed for galectins 1 and 3 and G3BP by in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry. Levels of galectin 3 and G3BP in serum and synovial fluid from patients with RA and OA and controls, as well as in cell culture supernatants, were determined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). In vitro, the intracellular expression of galectin 3 in RA and OA synovial fibroblasts after modulation with tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα), interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β), and anti‐CD40 monoclonal antibodies was measured by flow cytometry.

Results

In RA, galectin 3 messenger RNA and protein stained throughout the synovial membrane, whereas G3BP was particularly expressed at sites of bone destruction. In contrast, the expression of galectin 1 was not uniform in different RA specimens, and was never found at sites of invasion. In OA and normal synovial tissues, only a small number of cells were positive for galectins and/or G3BP. Galectin 3 was elevated in RA sera and synovial fluids, whereas G3BP was increased in RA synovial fluids only. In RA, serum galectin 3 correlated with C‐reactive protein levels, whereas G3BP was associated with joint destruction and/or synovial cell activation as measured by the levels of cartilage oligomeric matrix protein. In vitro, RA synovial fibroblasts showed an increased release of galectin 3 into culture medium, as measured by ELISA, but decreased secretion of G3BP. In RA synovial fibroblasts with low basal expression of galectin 3, TNFα increased its intracellular level in a dose‐dependent manner. In contrast, IL‐1β or anti‐CD40 monoclonal antibodies showed no effect.

Conclusion

Our data indicate that galectin 3 and G3BP are not only involved in inflammation, but also contribute to the activation of synovial fibroblasts. The intracellular accumulation of galectin 3 can be enhanced by TNFα. Thus, galectin 3 and G3BP represent novel markers of disease activity in RA.
Bone morphogenetic proteins 2 and 6, expressed in arthritic synovium, are regulated by proinflammatory cytokines and differentially modulate fibroblast‐like synoviocyte apoptosis
Authors: Lories Rik J. U. , Derese Inge , Ceuppens Jan L. , Luyten Frank P.
Published: June 2004

Objective

To examine the expression, regulation, and potential roles of bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) in arthritic synovium.

Methods

Expression of BMPs in arthritic synovium from patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) or spondylarthropathy (SpA) and in noninflamed synovium from patients undergoing diagnostic or therapeutic arthroscopies was studied by reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR), Western blot, immunohistochemistry, and 2‐color immunofluorescence. In vitro regulation of gene expression in fibroblast‐like synoviocytes (FLS) was determined by real‐time quantitative RT‐PCR and immunohistochemistry. We used 3H‐thymidine incorporation after serum deprivation–induced growth arrest to examine effects on FLS proliferation. FLS apoptosis was evaluated by flow cytometry cell cycle analysis. Apoptotic cells in synovial tissue were detected by TUNEL staining.

Results

Transcripts of different BMPs, most strikingly BMP‐2 and BMP‐6, were detected in synovial tissues. By Western blot, BMP‐2 and BMP‐6 precursor protein was found in RA and SpA synovial tissue extracts, but not in extracts of noninflamed synovial tissue. By immunohistochemistry, BMP‐2 and BMP‐6 were detected in the hyperplastic lining and the sublining layer of synovium from RA and SpA patients, both in CD90+ cells (FLS) and in some CD68+ cells (macrophages). Proinflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin‐1β and tumor necrosis factor α, but not interferon‐γ, enhanced the expression of BMP‐2 and BMP‐6 transcripts in FLS in vitro. Neither BMP‐2 nor BMP‐6 affected FLS proliferation. BMP‐2 promoted FLS apoptosis, whereas BMP‐6 protected against nitric oxide–induced FLS apoptosis. BMP‐2–positive apoptotic cells were found in arthritic synovium.

Conclusion

BMP‐2 and BMP‐6 are expressed in arthritic synovium and are strongly up‐regulated by proinflammatory cytokines. Although BMP signaling has been proposed to be involved in cartilage and bone repair in arthritis, this pathway may be equally important in modulating FLS cell populations in inflamed synovium.
Direct medical costs and their predictors in patients with rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Michaud Kaleb , Messer Jodi , Choi Hyon K. , Wolfe Frederick
Published: June 2004

Objective

To estimate total direct medical costs in persons with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and to characterize predictors of these costs.

Methods

Patients (n = 7,527) participating in a longitudinal study of outcome in RA completed 25,050 semiannual questionnaires from January 1999 through December 2001. From these we determined direct medical care costs converted to 2001 US dollars using the consumer price index. We used generalized estimating equations to examine potential predictors of the costs. Monte Carlo simulations and sensitivity analyses were performed to evaluate the varying prevalence and cost of biologic therapy.

Results

The mean total annual direct medical care cost in 2001 for a patient with RA was $9,519. Drug costs were $6,324 (66% of the total), while hospitalization costs were only $1,573 (17%). Approximately 25% of patients received biologic therapy. The mean total annual direct cost for patients receiving biologic agents was $19,016 per year, while the cost for those not receiving biologic therapy was $6,164. RA patients who were in the worst quartile of functional status, as measured by the Health Assessment Questionnaire, experienced direct medical costs for the subsequent year that were $5,022 more than the costs incurred by those in the best quartile. Physical status as determined by the Short Form 36 physical component scale had a similar large effect on RA costs, as did comorbidity. Medical insurance type played a more limited role. However, those without insurance had substantially lower service utilization and costs, and health maintenance organization patients had lower drug costs and total medical costs. Increased years of education, increased income, and majority ethnic status were all associated with increased drug costs but not hospitalization costs. Costs in all categories decreased after age 65 years.

Conclusion

Estimates of direct medical costs for patients with RA are substantially higher than cost estimates before the biologic therapy era, and costs are now driven predominantly by the cost of drugs, primarily biologic agents. RA patients with poor function continue to incur substantially higher costs, as do those with comorbid conditions, and sociodemographic characteristics also play an important role in determination of costs.
First results from SPIFFI. I: The Galactic Center
Authors: Horrobin M. , Eisenhauer F. , Tecza M. , Thatte N. , Genzel R. , Abuter R. , Iserlohe C. , Schreiber J. , Schegerer A. , Lutz D. , Ott T. , Schödel R.
Published: June 2004

In this and a companion paper (Eisenhauer et al. 2003b), we discuss some of the scientific results obtained during the SPIFFI guest instrument runs at the VLT in March and April 2003. This paper concentrates on results for the Galactic Center. Section 1 discusses the stellar population of the Galactic Center, in which we clearly detect, for the first time, an early, hot WN star, as well as a large number of WC stars. Analysis of the stellar population indicates that the young stars in the Galactic Center originated in a high metalicity starburst about 5 Myr ago. A surprising result is that essentially all young stars in the central 10″ belong to one of two well defined, rotating stellar rings/disks. Section 2 outlines a new determination of the distance to the Galactic Center which is essentially free of systematic uncertainties in the astrophysical modelling, and gives Ro as 7.94 ± 0.42 kpc. (© 2004 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
A SAURON look at galaxy bulges
Authors: Falcón‐Barroso J. , Bacon R. , Bureau M. , Cappellari M. , Davies R. L. , Emsellem E. , Krajnović D. , Kuntschner H. , McDermid R. , Peletier R. F. , de Zeeuw P. T.
Published: June 2004

Kinematic and population studies show that bulges are generally rotationally flattened systems similar to lowluminosity ellipticals. However, observations with state‐of‐the‐art integral field spectrographs, such as SAURON, indicate that the situation is much more complex, and allow us to investigate phenomena such as triaxiality, kinematic decoupling and population substructure, and to study their connection to current formation and evolution scenarios for bulges of early‐type galaxies. We present the examples of two S0 bulges from galaxies in our sample of nearby galaxies: one that shows all the properties expected from classical bulges (NGC5866), and another case that presents kinematic features appropriate for barred disk galaxies (NGC7332). (© 2004 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
OASIS high‐resolution integral field spectroscopy of the SAURON ellipticals and lenticulars
Authors: McDermid R. , Emsellem E. , Cappellari M. , Kuntschner H. , Bacon R. , Bureau M. , Copin Y. , Davies R. L. , Falcón‐Barroso J. , Ferruit P. , Krajnović D. , Peletier R.F. , Shapiro K. , Wernli F. , de Zeeuw P.T.
Published: June 2004

We present a summary of high‐spatial resolution follow‐up observations of the elliptical (E) and lenticular (S0) galaxies in the SAURON survey using the OASIS integral field spectrograph. The OASIS observations explore the central 8″ × 10″ regions of these galaxies using a spatial sampling four times higher than SAURON, often revealing previously undiscovered features. Around 75% (31/48) of the SAURON E/S0s with central velocity dispersion ≳ 120 km s−1 were observed with OASIS, covering well the original SAURON representative sample.We present here an overview of this follow‐up survey, and some preliminary results on individual objects, including a previously unreported counter‐rotating core in NGC4382; the decoupled stellar and gas velocity fields of NGC2768; and the strong age gradient towards the centre of NGC3489. (© 2004 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
A detailed view on the kinematics of candidate intermediate luminosity early‐type galaxies with a lack of dark matter
Authors: Covone G. , Napolitano N.R.
Published: June 2004

In several nearby L ∼ L* early‐type galaxies, recent observations at large radii have shown indications of a lack of dark matter, substantially at odds with the prediction from the Cold Dark Matter (CDM) hierarchical merger models. Here we discuss a pilot observational project for the study of the internal kinematical and dynamical properties of this remarkable sample of galaxies. Using the VIMOS‐IFU in its high spectral resolution mode, it would be possible to investigate the regions up to ∼1.2 Re, taking advantage of the much larger field of view and telescope diameter. This will allow to disclose the presence of any kinematical substructures which could affect the conclusion on the mass modeling and definitely clarify the inner structure of this particular class of early‐type galaxies. (© 2004 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
The merging/AGN connection: a case for 3D spectroscopy
Authors: Sánchez S.F. , Christensen L. , Becker T. , Kelz A. , Jahnke K. , Benn C.R. , García‐Lorenzoa B. , Roth M.M.
Published: June 2004

We discuss an ongoing study of the connection between galaxy merging/interaction and AGN activity, based on integral field spectroscopy. We focus on the search for AGN ionization in the central regions of mergers, previously not classified as AGNs. We present here the science case, the current status of the project, and plans for future observations. (© 2004 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
The nearby supernova factory
Authors: Copin Y. , the Nearby Supernova Factory Collaboration
Published: June 2004

The Nearby Supernova Factory is an international project dedicated to the study of the nearby thermonuclear (type Ia) supernovæ. Based upon the NEAT search for the target discovery and the dedicated integral field spectrograph SNIFS for the follow‐up, the goal is to study, over a continuous period of 4 years, the spectro‐photometric evolution of ∼300 SNe Ia atz< 0.08 from −15 to +50 days in the extended optical range (320–1000 nm). This will allow to probe in detail the local Hubble diagram, SNe Ia physics and the SNe‐host galaxy correlations, serving as an unprecedented nearby benchmark for the high‐zcosmological studies to come. (© 2004 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Integral field observations of damped Lyman‐α galaxies
Authors: Christensen L. , Sánchez S.F. , Jahnke K. , Becker T. , Kelz A. , Wisotzki L. , Roth M.M.
Published: June 2004

We report preliminary results from a targeted investigation on quasars containing damped Lyman‐α absorption (DLA) lines as well strong metal absorption lines, carried out with the Potsdam Multi Aperture Spectrophotometer (PMAS). We search for line‐emitting objects at the same redshift as the absorption lines and close to the line of sight of the QSOs. We have observed and detected the already confirmed absorbing galaxies in Q2233+131 (zabs = 3.15) and Q0151+045 (zabs=0.168), while failing to find spectral signatures for the z = 0.091 absorber in Q0738+313. From the Q2233+131 DLA galaxy, we have detected extended Lyα emission from an area of 3″ ×5″. (© 2004 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Integral field spectroscopy of the gravitational lens HE1104‐1805
Authors: Gómez‐Álvarez P. , Mediavilla Gradolph E. , Sánchez S.F. , Arribas S. , Wisotzki L. , Wambsganss J. , Lewis G. , Muñoz J.A.
Published: June 2004

We present integral field spectroscopy of the double imaged quasar HE1104‐1805 taken with the optical fiber system INTEGRAL‐WYFFOS at theWHT telescope. From the spectra of the two components we have measured the continuum and line emission ratios, finding an offset between them that can be related to microlensing. (© 2004 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Integral field spectrophotometry of gravitationally lensed QSOs with PMAS
Authors: Wisotzki L. , Becker T. , Christensen L. , Jahnke K. , Helms A. , Kelz A. , Roth M.M. , Sánchez S.F.
Published: June 2004

We present spatially resolved spectrophotometric observations of multiply imaged QSOs, using the Potsdam Multi‐Aperture Spectrophotometer (PMAS), with the intention to search for spectral differences between components indicative of either microlensing or dust extinction. For the quadruple QSO HE 0435–1223 we find that the continuum shapes are indistinguishable, therefore differential extinction is negligible. The equivalent widths of the broad emission lines are however significantly different, and we argue that this is most likely due to microlensing. Contrariwise, the two components of the well‐known object UM 673 have virtually identical emission line properties, but the continuum slopes differ significantly and indicate different dust extinction along both lines of sight. (© 2004 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Extragalactic integral field spectroscopy on the Gemini telescopes
Authors: Bunker A. , Smith J. , Parry I. , Sharp R. , Dean A. , Gilmore G. , Bower R. , Swinbank M. , Davies R. , Metcalf R. B. , de Grijs R.
Published: June 2004

We have been undertaking a programme on the Gemini 8‐m telescopes to demonstrate the power of integral field spectroscopy, using the optical GMOS spectrograph, and the new CIRPASS instrument in the near‐infrared. Here we present some preliminary results from 3D spectroscopy of extra‐galactic objects, mapping the emission lines in a 3CR radio galaxy and in a gravitationally lensed arc, exploring dark matter sub‐structure through observations of an Einstein Cross gravitational lens, and the star formation time‐scales of young massive clusters in the starburst galaxy NGC 1140. (© 2004 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Observing the high redshift Universe using the VIMOS‐IFU
Authors: Foucaud S. , Scodeggio M. , Zanichelli A. , Garilli B. , Giallongo E.
Published: June 2004

We describe the advantages of using Integral Field Spectroscopy to observe deep fields of galaxies. The VIMOS Integral Field Unit is particularly suitable for this kind of study thanks to its large field‐of‐view (∼1 arcmin2). After a short description of the VIMOS‐IFU data reduction, we detail the main scientific issues which can be addressed using observations of the Hubble Deep Field South with a combination of Integral Field Spectroscopy and broad band optical and near‐Infrared imaging. (© 2004 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Science verification results from PMAS
Authors: Roth M.M. , Becker T. , Böhm P. , Kelz A.
Published: June 2004

PMAS, the Potsdam Multi‐Aperture Spectrophotometer, is a new integral field instrument which was commissioned at the Calar Alto 3.5 m Telescope in May 2001. We report on results obtained from a science verification run in October 2001. We present observations of the low‐metallicity blue compact dwarf galaxy SBS0335‐052, the ultra‐luminous X‐ray Source X‐1 in the Holmberg II galaxy, the quadruple gravitational lens system Q2237+0305 (the “Einstein Cross”), the Galactic planetary nebula NGC7027, and extragalactic planetary nebulae in M31. PMAS is now available as a common user instrument at Calar Alto Observatory. (© 2004 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
E3D, the Euro3D visualization tool I: Description of the program and its capabilities
Authors: Sánchez S.F.
Published: June 2004

We present the first version of E3D, the Euro3D visualization tool for data from integral field spectroscopy. We describe its major characteristics, based on the proposed requirements, the current state of the project, and some planned future upgrades. We show examples of its use and capabilities. (© 2004 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Detection of circulating oesophageal squamous cancer cells in peripheral blood and its impact on prognosis
Authors: Kaganoi J , Shimada Y , Kano M , Okumura T , Watanabe G , Imamura M
Published: June 2004

Background

Many studies have attempted to detect cancer cells using the reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction (RT–PCR) for specific mRNAs. None has examined the correlation between the presence of circulating oesophageal cancer cells in peripheral blood and long-term outcome.

Methods

Blood samples were obtained on admission, and before, during and after operation from 70 patients with squamous oesophageal cancer who had complete clinicopathological records and who underwent curative oesophagectomy between June 1997 and June 2000. RT–PCR for mRNA encoding squamous cell carcinoma antigen (SCCA mRNA) was used to detect oesophageal cancer cells in peripheral blood.

Results

Twenty-three patients (33 per cent) were positive for SCCA mRNA on admission and 17 of these patients developed recurrent disease. SCCA mRNA on admission correlated with the depth of tumour invasion (P < 0·001) and with venous invasion (P < 0·001). Eleven of 24 patients with a positive intraoperative result were positive for SCCA mRNA only during operation, of whom seven also developed recurrence.

Conclusion

RT–PCR for SCCA mRNA can detect oesophageal cancer cells in peripheral blood. The presence of such cells in blood samples obtained on admission or during operation is a useful predictor of outcome in patients with oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma.
Endovascular treatment of abdominal aortic aneurysm
Authors: Gorham T J , Taylor J , Raptis S
Published: May 2004

Background

Endovascular repair of abdominal aortic aneurysm has become widely used. Supporters claim high success rates, few complications and a dramatically reduced hospital stay. However, endoleak, endotension and reports of endoprosthesis rupture are causes of concern.

Methods

A Medline search was undertaken to identify articles on endovascular repair of abdominal aortic aneurysm. Additional papers were identified by manual scanning of the references from key articles.

Results and conclusion

Endoleak is a potentially serious complication of the endovascular technique and occurs in a significant proportion of patients. It is still not possible to judge whether the presence of an endoleak alone signifies failure of treatment, and the long-term durability of prosthetic covered stents is unknown. However, endovascular repair does appear to confer a degree of protection from rupture although patients must be advised of the need for life-long imaging surveillance and, perhaps, further intervention.
Synthesis of an Enzyme‐like Imprinted Polymer with the Substrate as the Template, and Its Catalytic Properties under Aqueous Conditions
Authors: Cheng Zhiyong , Zhang Liwei , Li Yuanzong
Published: May 2004

Transition state analogues (TSAs) have long been regarded as ideal templates for the preparation of catalytically active synthetic imprinted polymers. In the current work, however, a new type of molecularly imprinted polymer (MIP) was synthesized with the substrate (homovanillic acid, HVA) as the template and hemin introduced as the catalytic center, with the use of plural functional monomers to prepare the active sites. The MIP successfully mimicked natural peroxidase, suggesting that it may not be imperative to employ a TSA as the template when preparing enzyme‐like imprinted polymers and that the imprinted polymer matrix provided an advantageous microenvironment around the catalytic center (hemin), essentially similar to that supplied by apo‐proteins in natural enzymes. Significantly, by taking advantage of the special structure of hemin and multiple‐site interactions provided by several functional monomers, the intrinsic difficulties for MIPs in recognizing template molecules in polar solutions were overcome. The newly developed polymer showed considerable recognizing ability toward HVA, catalytic activity, substrate specificity and also stability, which are the merits lacked by the natural peroxidase. Meanwhile, the ease of recovery and reuse the MIP implies the potential for industrial application.
Metal Coordination to the Formal PN Bond of an Iminophosphorane and Charge‐Density Evidence against Hypervalent Phosphorus(V)
Authors: Kocher Nikolaus , Leusser Dirk , Murso Alexander , Stalke Dietmar
Published: June 2004

The iminophosphorane Ph2P(CH2Py)(NSiMe3) (1) was treated with deprotonating alkali metal reagents to give [(Et2O)Li{Ph2P(CHPy)(NSiMe3)}] (2), [{Ph2P(CH2Py)(NSiMe3)}Li{Ph2P(CHPy)(NSiMe3)}] (3) and [{Ph2P(CH2Py)(NSiMe3)}Na{Ph2P(CHPy)(NSiMe3)}] (4). We report their coordination behaviour in solid‐state structures and NMR spectroscopic features in solution. Furthermore, we furnish experimental evidence against hypervalency of the phosphorus atom in iminophosphoranes from experimental charge‐density studies and subsequent topological analysis. The topological properties, correlated to the results from NMR spectroscopic investigations, illustrate that the formal PN double bond is better written as a polar P+N−single bond. Additionally, the effects of metal coordination on the bonding parameters of the iminophosphorane and the related anion are discussed.
Sn2BrxI4‐x(g) and Sn2BryI3‐y+ (x = 0—4, y = 0—3) Species: Mass Spectrometric Evidence and Quantum‐Chemical Studies.
Authors: Saloni J. , Roszak S. , Miller M. , Hilpert K. , Leszczynski J.
Published: June 2004

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Crystal Engineering Through Face Interactions Between Tetrahedral and Octahedral Building Blocks: Crystal Structure of [ε‐Al13O4(OH)24 (H2O)12]2 [V2W4O19] 3(OH)2×27H2O.
Authors: Son Jung‐Ho , Kwon Young‐Uk
Published: June 2004

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A Novel 3‐D Heterobimetallic Cyano‐Bridged Coordination Polymer Incorporating Ag×××Ag Interaction: [Cu(dien)Ag(CN)2]2[Ag2(CN)3] [Ag(CN)2].
Authors: Zhou Hui‐Bo , Dong Wen , Liang Mao , Liao Dai‐Zheng , Jiang Zong‐Hui , Yan Shi‐Ping , Cheng Peng
Published: June 2004

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The First Rare Earth Metal Thioborate: Synthesis and Crystal Structure of EuB2S4.
Authors: Doech M. , Hammerschmidt A. , Krebs B.
Published: June 2004

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Synthesis, Crystal Structure, and Thermal Decomposition of Mg(H2O)6 [B12H12]×6H2O.
Authors: Tiritiris Ioannis , Schleid Thomas
Published: June 2004

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Mn14Al56+xGe3‐x (x = 0—0.6): A New Intermetallic Phase Containing Unprecedented “Half‐Broken” Mackay Icosahedra as Building Units.
Authors: Wu Li‐Ming , Seo Dong‐Kyun
Published: June 2004

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The Structures of Mercury Chalcogenhalogenides Hg3X2HaI2.
Authors: Minets Yu. V. , Voroshilov Yu. V. , Pan'ko V. V.
Published: June 2004

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X‐Ray Powder Diffraction Studies of Tl2TeBr6 and Tl2TeI6.
Authors: Sidey V. I. , Zubaka O. V. , Solomon A. M. , Kun S. V. , Peresh E. Yu.
Published: June 2004

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Crystal Structure of the Cu5.976Hg0.972SiSe6 Compound.
Authors: Gulay L. D. , Parasyuk O. V. , Romanyuk Ya. E. , Olekseyuk I. D.
Published: June 2004

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The Crystal Structure of the Compound Ce3Ru4Al12 with Gd3Ru4Al12 Type
Authors: Bukhan'ko N. G. , Tursina A. I. , Malyshev S. V. , Gribanov A. V. , Seropegin Yu. D. , Bodak O. I.
Published: June 2004

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Valence Instabilities, Phase Transitions, and Abrupt Lattice Expansion at 5 K in the YbGaGe System.
Authors: Margadonna Serena , Prassides Kosmas , Fitch Andrew N. , Salvador James R. , Kanatzidis Mercouri G.
Published: June 2004

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Fast Lithium Ion Diffusion in the Ternary Layered Nitridometalate LiNiN.
Authors: Stoeva Zlatka , Gomez Ruben , Gordon Alexandra G. , Allan Mark , Gregory Duncan H. , Hix Gary B. , Titman Jeremy J.
Published: June 2004

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Superconductivity in Diamond.
Authors: Ekimov E. A. , Sidorov V. A. , Bauer E. D. , Mel'nik N. N. , Curro N. J. , Thompson J. D. , Stishov S. M.
Published: June 2004

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Interaction of the Components in the Ni—Zn—Sb Ternary System at 570 K.
Authors: Chumak I. , Pavlyuk V.
Published: June 2004

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Synthesis of a New Class of Conformationally Rigid Phosphino‐oxazolines: Highly Enantioselective Ligands for Ir‐Catalyzed Asymmetric Hydrogenation.
Authors: Liu Duan , Tang Wenjun , Zhang Xumu
Published: June 2004

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Enantioselective Aza‐Henry Reaction Catalyzed by a Bifunctional Organocatalyst.
Authors: Okino Tomotaka , Nakamura Satoru , Furukawa Tomihiro , Takemoto Yoshiji
Published: June 2004

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Metal‐Free Bifunctional Catalysis of the Asymmetric Baylis—Hillman Reaction.
Authors: Mocquet Cecile M. , Warriner Stuart L.
Published: June 2004

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Pd/CaCO3 in Liquid Poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG): An Easy and Efficient Recycle System for Partial Reduction of Alkynes to cis‐Olefins under a Hydrogen Atmosphere.
Authors: Chandrasekhar S. , Narsihmulu Ch. , Chandrashekar G. , Shyamsunder T.
Published: June 2004

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Nucleophilic Addition to Electron‐Rich Heteroaromatics: Dearomatizing Anionic Cyclizations of Pyrrolecarboxamides.
Authors: Clayden Jonathan , Turnbull Rachel , Pinto Ivan
Published: June 2004

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Tris[(2‐oxazolinyl)phenolato]manganese(III) as Catalyst for Mild and Efficient Oxidation of Sulfides to Sulfones with Oxone®.
Authors: Bagherzadeh Mojtaba
Published: June 2004

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Epoxide Formation by Indirect Electroreductive Coupling Between Aldehydes or Ketones and Activated gem‐Dichloro Compounds.
Authors: Oudeyer S. , Leonel E. , Paugam J. P. , Nedelec J.‐Y.
Published: June 2004

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A Novel Route to Functionalized PFP Esters via Rapid Intermolecular Radical Addition to PFP Acrylate Mediated by Ethylpiperidinium Hypophosphite (EPHP).
Authors: Caddick Stephen , Hamza Daniel , Judd Duncan B. , Reich Melanie T. , Wadman Sjoerd N. , Wilden Jonathan D.
Published: June 2004

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Yttrium Triflate as an Efficient and Useful Catalyst for Chemoselective Protection of Carbonyl Compounds.
Authors: Kanta De Surya
Published: June 2004

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InCl3‐Promoted Allylation of Aldehydes in Ionic Liquid: Scope and Enantioselectivity Studies.
Authors: Lu Jun , Ji Shun‐Jun , Qian Rong , Chen Jian‐Ping , Liu Yu , Loh Teck‐Peng
Published: June 2004

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Rhodium(I)‐Catalyzed Regioselective Additions of Chloroformates to 1,2‐Dienes.
Authors: Hua Ruimao , Tanaka Masato
Published: June 2004

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Rhodium Complex‐Catalyzed Cycloisomerization of Allenenes: Exo and Endo Cyclization Depending on the Auxiliary Ligands.
Authors: Makino Tatsuya , Itoh Kenji
Published: June 2004

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Facile Preparation of β‐Fluoro Amines by the Reaction of Aziridines with Potassium Fluoride Dihydrate in the Presence of Bu4NHSO4.
Authors: Fan Ren‐Hua , Zhou Yong‐Gui , Zhang Wan‐Xuan , Hou Xue‐Long , Dai Li‐Xin
Published: June 2004

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Remarkably Facile Hexatriene Electrocyclizations as a Route to Functionalized Cyclohexenones via Ring Expansion of Cyclobutenones.
Authors: Magomedov Nabi A. , Ruggiero Piero L. , Tang Yuchen
Published: June 2004

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Formation of P‐Ylide under Neutral and Metal‐Free Conditions: Transformation of Aziridines and Epoxides to Conjugated Dienes in the Presence of Phosphine.
Authors: Fan Ren‐Hua , Hou Xue‐Long , Dai Li‐Xin
Published: June 2004

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Convenient Processes for the Synthesis of Aromatic Ketones from Aryl Bromides and Carboxylic Anhydrides Using a Cobalt Catalysis.
Authors: Kazmierski Igor , Bastienne Mylene , Gosmini Corinne , Paris Jean‐Marc , Perichon Jacques
Published: June 2004

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Free Radical‐Mediated Tandem Reaction of Dehydroamino Acid Derivative with π‐Allyl Palladium Complex: Synthesis of α,α‐Disubstituted Amino Acids.
Authors: Miyabe Hideto , Asada Ryuta , Yoshida Kazumasa , Takemoto Yoshiji
Published: June 2004

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Substituent Effects on Competitive Release of Phenols and 1,3‐Rearrangement in α‐Keto Amide Photochemistry.
Authors: Ma Chicheng , Steinmetz Mark G.
Published: June 2004

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Ring‐Opening Reactions of MCPs with Sulfonamides Promoted by Metal Triflate Lewis Acids.
Authors: Chen Yu , Shi Min
Published: June 2004

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The First Broad Application of Alkynyl Sulfides as Dienophiles in Cobalt(I)‐Catalyzed Diels—Alder Reactions.
Authors: Hilt Gerhard , Lueers Steffen , Harms Klaus
Published: June 2004

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Enantioselective Sulfoxidation Mediated by Renewable Camphor‐Derived Hydroperoxides.
Authors: Lattanzi Alessandra , Iannece Patrizia , Scettri Arrigo
Published: June 2004

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Platinum(II)‐Catalyzed Reaction of 2‐Alkynylbenzoates or Benzothioates with Vinyl Ethers: A Concise Method for Synthesis of 1‐Acyl‐4‐alkoxy‐ or 1‐Acyl‐4‐alkylsulfanylnaphthalene Derivatives.
Authors: Kusama Hiroyuki , Funami Hideaki , Takaya Jun , Iwasawa Nobuharu
Published: June 2004

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Cu(acac)2 Immobilized in Ionic Liquids: A Novel and Recyclable Catalytic System for Aziridination of Olefins Using PhI=NTs as Nitrene Donor.
Authors: Kantam M. Lakshmi , Neeraja V. , Kavita B. , Haritha Y.
Published: June 2004

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Oxidative Free Radical Reactions of Enamino Esters.
Authors: Chuang Che‐Ping , Wu Yi‐Lung
Published: June 2004

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A Tin‐Complexation Strategy for Use with Diverse Acylation Methods in the Preparation of 1,9‐Diacyldipyrromethanes.
Authors: Tamaru Shun‐ichi , Yu Lianhe , Youngblood W. Justin , Muthukumaran Kannan , Taniguchi Masahiko , Lindsey Jonathan S.
Published: June 2004

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Respiratory Syncytial Virus Inhibitors. Part 2. Benzimidazol‐2‐one Derivatives
Authors: Meanwell Nicholas A. , et al. et al.
Published: June 2004

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Potent Imidazole and Triazole CB1 Receptor Antagonists Related to SR141716.
Authors: Dyck Brian , Goodfellow Val S. , Phillips Teresa , Grey Jonathan , Haddach Mustapha , Rowbottom Martin , Naeve Gregory S. , Brown Brock , Sauders John
Published: June 2004

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Facile and Effective Copper‐Mediated Cyclization Reaction of Cyclopropylideneacetic Acids (or Esters) and Cyclopropylideneacetonitriles.
Authors: Huang Xian , Zhou Hongwei , Chen Wanli
Published: June 2004

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Microwave‐Assisted Solvent‐Free Synthesis of Hexahydrochromeno[4,3‐b]pyrroles.
Authors: Pospisil Jiri , Potacek Milan
Published: June 2004

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A New Biginelli Reaction Procedure Using Potassium Hydrogen Sulfate as the Promoter for an Efficient Synthesis of 3,4‐Dihydropyrimidin‐2(1H)‐one.
Authors: Tu Shujiang , Fang Fang , Zhu Songlei , Li Tuanjie , Zhang Xiaojing , Zhuang Qiya
Published: June 2004

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Metallation of Pyridines and Quinolines in the Presence of a Remote Carboxylate Group. New Syntheses of Heterocyclic Quinones.
Authors: Rebstock Anne‐Sophie , Mongin Florence , Trecourt Francois , Queguiner Guy
Published: June 2004

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A Simple Procedure for the Side‐Chain Substitution of 2‐Alkyl‐3H‐quinazoline‐4‐thiones: Application in Synthesis.
Authors: El‐Hiti Gamal A.
Published: June 2004

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Functionalization of Dihydrodipyridopyrazines Involving Palladium‐Catalyzed Coupling Reactions.
Authors: Grig‐Alexa Irina‐Claudia , Finaru Adriana‐Luminita , Ivan Lucia , Caubere Paul , Guillaumet Gerald
Published: June 2004

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The Bromination and Nitration of Some (2H)‐1,4‐Benzoxazin‐3(4H)‐ones.
Authors: Hanson James R. , Richards Lisa , Rozas Panteleimon
Published: June 2004

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