bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Absence of 12q21.2q22 deletions and subtelomeric rearrangements in cardiofaciocutaneous (CFC) syndrome patients
Authors: Kavamura M.I. , Zollino M. , Lecce R. , Murdolo M. , Brunoni D. , Alchorne M.M.A. , Opitz J.M. , Neri G.
Published: May 2003

Recent publications described two patients with a CFC‐like phenotype and the same deletion of chromosome region 12q21.2q22 [Rauen et al., 2000, 2002]. The patients did not have the classical CFC phenotype and presented other signs not usually seen in CFC patients: the first patient had hydrocephalus, and the second, a history of olygohydramnios, normal stature, pyloric stenosis, cutaneous syndactyly of toes and bilateral transverse palmar creases. In order to verify if classic CFC patients with normal chromosomes in conventional preparations have microdeletions within the 12q21.2q22 chromosome region, we performed FISH analysis using 12 BAC probes to screen this area. The average interval between the probes was of approximately 1 Mb. No deletions were found in any of the 17 classical CFC patients we examined. We conclude that the region 12q21.2q22 is not a candidate region for CFC syndrome and that the patients described by Rauen et al. [2000, 2002] probably have a different condition, i.e., an aneuploidy syndrome, with some phenotypic resemblance to the CFC syndrome. To further evaluate the possibility of other chromosome imbalances, we performed a subtelomeric analysis, by FISH technique, of all chromosomes, and did not find any subtelomeric rearrangements. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Association of microphthalmia and esophageal atresia: Description of a patient and review of the literature
Authors: Messina Mario , Ferrucci Elisabetta , Buonocore Giuseppe , Scarinci Renato , Garzi Alfredo
Published: May 2003

Since 1988, when Rogers first described a boy with anophthalmia associated with esophageal atresia, eight similar cases have been reported. These patients lend support to the hypothesis that this association of congenital anomalies constitutes a discrete entity, although the etiology is still unknown.We report a patient with this combination of malformations as well as a marked hypoplasia of the entire left half of the body. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Primary hypergonadotropic hypogonadism, partial alopecia, and müllerian hypoplasia: Report of a second family with additional findings
Authors: Mégarbané A. , Gannagé‐Yared M.H. , Khalifé A.A. , Fabre M.
Published: May 2003

Two sisters with primary hypergonadotropic hypogonadism associated with microcephaly, flat occiput, partial alopecia, absent or streak ovaries, and Müllerian hypoplasia are reported. Their parents are first cousins. Despite some clinical differences, their features were very close to a family described with such an association by Al‐Awadi et al. [1985: Am J Med Genet 22:619–622] in Kuwait. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Synthesis and behavior in solution of the triple cubane‐ and windmill‐type framework isomers of an organorhodium tungsten oxide cluster [(Cp*Rh)4W4O16]
Authors: Nishikawa Koji , Kido Koichi , Yoshida Jun'ichi , Nishioka Takanori , Kinoshita Isamu , Breedlove Brian K. , Hayashi Yoshihito , Uehara Akira , Isobe Kiyoshi
Published: May 2003

Two geometrical isomers of a [(Cp*Rh)4W4O16] oxide cluster, a triple cubane‐type and a windmill‐type, are isolated selectively from the systems of [Cp*Rh]2+ and [WO4]2− in CH3CN using different reaction temperatures. Both isomers, which interconvert in certain solutions, are characterized by X‐ray diffraction. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Second neoplasms after megavoltage radiation for pediatric tumors
Authors: Gold Douglas G. , Neglia Joseph P. , Dusenbery Kathryn E.
Published: May 2003

BACKGROUND

Because ionizing radiation is a known carcinogen, diligent long‐term follow‐up in children exposed to therapeutic radiation is required. The authors updated an earlier study on the nature and risk of second neoplasms (SN) in patients treated with megavoltage radiotherapy as children.

METHODS

The authors followed 446 children who were treated for a primary malignancy with megavoltage radiotherapy between January 16, 1954 and December 31, 1980. These children survived a minimum of 5 years. The nature and incidence of SNs were evaluated in this population. Patients with bilateral retinoblastoma or neurofibromatosis were excluded from the study due to their large genetically based predisposition for developing an SN.

RESULTS

The Kaplan–Meier actuarial survival rate was 80% (95% confidence interval [CI] 74–85%) at 30 years for all patients. Thirty‐seven (8.3%) patients developed SNs, most of which occurred within the original radiation treatment field, 3.8–31.8 years (median, 15.5 years) after radiotherapy. The cumulative risk of developing an SN was 13% (95% CI 9–19%) at 30 years and the standardized incidence ratio for the development of any SN was 5.2 (95% CI 3.4–7.6%). The most common SNs were breast carcinoma (n = 8), skin carcinoma (five basal cell carcinomas, two malignant melanomas, and one dermatosarcoma), and meningiomas (n = 6). All eight breast carcinomas occurred after the treatment of childhood Hodgkin disease. Of the 37 patients with SNs, 12 died of either the SN (n = 10) or of recurrent disease (n = 2). Risk factors associated with developing a SN included initial diagnosis of Hodgkin disease (P = 0.0003), female gender (P = 0.008), and an initial diagnosis of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (P = 0.02).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients in the radiation‐treated cohort experienced increased mortality, were at an increased risk of developing an SN, and should undergo increased medical surveillance as adults. The cumulative probability of developing an SN has increased substantially at 30 years, largely due to an increase in follow‐up time. In addition, the cumulative probability curve does not show evidence of plateau after increased duration of follow‐up. Finally, the emergence of secondary breast carcinoma in the current study was not noted in the previous analysis. Cancer 2003;10:2588–96. © 2003 American Cancer Society.

DOI 10.1002/cncr.11356
Rhabdomyosarcoma in infants younger than one year old
Authors: Ferrari Andrea , Casanova Michela , Bisogno Gianni , Zanetti Ilaria , Cecchetto Giovanni , Bernardi Bruno De , Riccardi Riccardo , Tamaro Paolo , Meazza Cristina , Alaggio Rita , Ninfo Vito , Carli Modesto
Published: May 2003

BACKGROUND

The management of rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) in patients age < 1 year is particularly problematic and requires a tailored therapeutic approach. We report on the Italian Cooperative Group's 20‐year study of 50 children with RMS who were age < 1 year at diagnosis.

METHODS

Patients were treated using multimodality therapeutic approaches that were based on three consecutive protocols. Chemotherapy was administered to all patients, with dosages calculated according to body weight; calculated doses subsequently were reduced by 33–50%. Radiotherapy was administered to 10 patients.

RESULTS

With a median follow‐up of 76 months, 5‐year event‐free survival and overall survival rates were 42.3% and 61.7%, respectively. Local recurrence was the major reason for treatment failure. In particular, the local recurrence rate was high in patients who warranted radiotherapy but received none due to their age. Completeness of surgery and nodal involvement were the most significant prognostic factors. After a suitable reduction in dosage was made, acute toxicity was no different from what has been observed in older children. The most relevant toxic event was cardiotoxic death in a newborn (n = 1).

CONCLUSIONS

The current study confirmed that the outcome for infants with RMS is less satisfactory than for older children and that infants with RMS require more careful monitoring and specific treatment guidelines. The absence of local control is the major cause of treatment failure; aggressive conservative surgery should be encouraged, but more radiotherapy may be advisable in selected cases. Intensive chemotherapy is essential; a 33% dose reduction may ensure adequate tolerance. In addition, patients age < 3 months should not receive anthracyclines. Cancer 2003;10:2597–604. © 2003 American Cancer Society.

DOI 10.1002/cncr.11357
Transitional cell carcinoma of the urinary bladder with regional lymph node involvement treated by cystectomy
Authors: Frank Igor , Cheville John C. , Blute Michael L. , Lohse Christine M. , Nehra Ajay , Weaver Amy L. , Karnes R. Jeffrey , Zincke Horst
Published: May 2003

BACKGROUND

Patients with transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) of the urinary bladder metastatic to regional lymph nodes (LN) typically have a poor prognosis. However, some patients are cured by radical cystectomy alone. The goal of this study was to identify predictors of survival in this cohort.

METHODS

The authors identified 154 patients with TCC metastatic to regional LNs treated by cystectomy between 1970 and 1998. Clinical characteristics collected included age, gender, and preoperative computed tomographic or magnetic resonance image scan findings, as well as neoadjuvant and adjuvant therapy. Pathologic features evaluated included multifocality, size, pathologic stage, grade, and margin status of the primary tumor, as well as the number, location, and bilaterality of the positive LNs. Capsular penetration, greatest linear extent, and surface area of the largest metastatic LN deposit were also recorded. The Kaplan–Meier method was used to evaluate survival rates. Cox proportional hazards models were used to identify predictors of outcome.

RESULTS

The mean follow‐up was 4.5 years (range, 0.1–13.9 years). In a multivariate setting, only adjuvant chemotherapy and the number of positive LNs were associated significantly with death from TCC. Patients treated adjuvantly with chemotherapy were 2.1 times less likely to die of their disease (P = 0.005). Each increase in one positive LN increased the risk of death from TCC by 20% (P < 0.001). Recursive partitioning indicated that the optimal cutoff point to predict death from TCC was five or more positive LNs.

CONCLUSIONS

Adjuvant chemotherapy and the number of positive LNs were associated significantly with death from TCC. Cancer 2003;10:2425–31. © 2003 American Cancer Society.

DOI 10.1002/cncr.11370
Avascular necrosis in long‐term survivors after allogeneic or autologous stem cell transplantation
Authors: Tauchmanovà Libuse , De Rosa Gennaro , Serio Bianca , Fazioli Flavio , Mainolfi Ciro , Lombardi Gaetano , Colao Annamaria , Salvatore Marco , Rotoli Bruno , Selleri Carmine
Published: May 2003

BACKGROUND

The most debilitating skeletal complication of stem cell transplantation (SCT) is avascular necrosis (AVN).

METHODS

Two hundred seven consecutive patients were evaluated prospectively for AVN. They survived disease free for more than 180 days after autologous or allogeneic SCT for hematologic malignancies. The diagnosis of AVN in suspicious cases was confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging. Possible correlations with treatments, bone mineral density (BMD), graft versus host disease (GVHD), and in vitro growth of fibroblast progenitors were investigated. Bone mineral density was evaluated by dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry in 100 transplanted patients, and the in vitro growth of fibroblast progenitors was monitored by a fibroblast colony‐forming unit (CFU‐F) assay in 30 patients after allogeneic SCT.

RESULTS

Twelve patients developed AVN 3–114 months (median, 26 months) following SCT: 10 (10%) after allogeneic SCT and 2 (1.9%) after autologous SCT (P = 0.04). Twenty‐five joints were affected by AVN. All patients had femoral head involvement, which was managed with hip replacement in six of them. All but one patient who developed AVN after allogeneic SCT suffered from chronic GVHD (cGVHD). Avascular necrosis occurred 1–4 months after exacerbation or progression of cGVHD. Cumulative dose of steroids was similar in both SCT groups (including steroids given pretransplant for the basic disease), whereas treatment duration was significantly longer in the allogeneic SCT group. Avascular necrosis was related to the decreased number of bone marrow CFU‐F colonies in vitro, but not to BMD values.

CONCLUSIONS

Avascular necrosis is a skeletal complication that occurs more often after allogeneic than after autologous SCT. Occurrence of AVN symptoms after clinical follow‐up of cGVHD suggests that cGVHD requiring long‐term steroid therapy is one of the main risk factors for AVN. Avascular necrosis may be facilitated by a severe deficit in the repopulating capacity of bone marrow stromal stem cells after SCT. Cancer 2003;97:2453–61. © 2003 American Cancer Society.

DOI 10.1002/cncr.11373
Weekly, high‐dose paclitaxel in advanced lung carcinoma
Authors: Akerley Wallace , Herndon James E. , Egorin Merrill J. , Lyss Alan P. , Kindler Hedy L. , Savarese Dianne M. , Sherman Carol A. , Rosen D. Marc , Hollis Donna , Ratain Mark J. , Green Mark R.
Published: May 2003

BACKGROUND

The Cancer and Leukemia Group B conducted a Phase II trial to evaluate the efficacy, toxicity, and pharmacokinetics of paclitaxel administered at a maximum dose density for patients with chemotherapy‐naïve, advanced‐stage non–small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC).

METHODS

Patients with Stage IIIB/IV or recurrent NSCLC, a performance status (PS) score of 0–1, and no history of chemotherapy exposure were eligible. Paclitaxel, 150 mg/m2, was administered over 3 hours during Weeks 1–6 of an 8‐week cycle. Doses were modified for ANC < 1500/μL or for ≥ Grade 2 neuropathy on the day of therapy. Treatment continued until toxicity or disease progression. Pharmacokinetics were assessed at Weeks 1, 3, and 5 of Cycle 1.

RESULTS

Thirty‐eight patients (median age, 64 years; range, 31–81 years) were treated. There were 21 males (PS = 0 for 17). Eleven patients had received previous radiation, 2 had brain metastases, 25 had adenocarcinoma, 23 had Stage IV disease, 6 had StageIIIB disease, and 9 had recurrent disease. Grade 3–4 granulocytopenia occurred in 39% of patients. There were no deaths due to toxicity. Grade 2 or 3 neuropathy occurred in 29% and 24% of patients, respectively. Ten (27%) patients had Grade 3 hyperglycemia (glucose concentration > 250 mg/dL). There were 16 partial responses (42%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 26–59%). The median survival period was 12.3 months (95% CI, 7.9–19.6%), and the 1‐year and 2‐year survival rates were 52% (95% CI, 39–71%) and 26% (95% CI, 15–45%), respectively. Paclitaxel pharmacokinetics were consistent with published values and clearance was not induced. Older age and hyperglycemia were associated with greater neurotoxicity.

CONCLUSIONS

Paclitaxel at 150 mg/m2 per week × 6 every 8 weeks can be administered safely in the cooperative group setting. These Phase II data are comparable to those associated with combination therapy. The weekly dose‐dense schedule may be more active than conventional schedules. Cancer 2003;10:2480–6. © 2003 American Cancer Society.

DOI 10.1002/cncr.11375
Majority versus minority influence: when, not whether, source status instigates heuristic or systematic processing
Authors: Martin Robin , Hewstone Miles
Published: May 2003

Two experiments investigated the extent of message processing of a persuasive communication proposed by either a numerical majority or minority. Both experiments crossed source status (majority versus minority) with message quality (strong versus weak arguments) to determine which source condition is associated with systematic processing. The first experiment showed a reliable difference between strong and weak messages, indicating systematic processing had occurred, for a minority irrespective of message direction (pro‐ versus counter‐attitudinal), but not for a majority. The second experiment showed that message outcome moderates when a majority or a minority leads to systematic processing. When the message argued for a negative personal outcome, there was systematic processing only for the majority source; but when the message did not argue for a negative personal outcome, there was systematic processing only for the minority source. Thus one key moderator of whether a majority or minority source leads to message processing is whether the topic induces defensive processing motivated by self‐interest. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Women's emotional responses to the pervasiveness of gender discrimination
Authors: Schmitt Michael T. , Branscombe Nyla R. , Postmes Tom
Published: May 2003

In two experiments we found that women exhibited worse psychological well‐being in a context in which gender discrimination was pervasive compared to a context in which is was rare. In Study 1, women who read an essay suggesting that sexism is pervasive reported lower self‐esteem than women who read an essay suggesting that sexism is rare. In Study 2, we examined the effects of the pervasiveness of sexism when women were making an attribution for a single negative outcome. Women who attributed a negative evaluation to pervasive sexism exhibited less positive self‐esteem and affect compared to women who could attribute the negative evaluation to an isolated instance of discrimination or to a non‐sexist, external cause. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The effects of status on identification with multiple groups
Authors: Roccas Sonia
Published: May 2003

Three studies explored the effects of the relative status of the multiple groups of which individuals are simultaneously members. In all studies participants reported their identification and their perception of the status of two groups (either real or experimental) of which they were simultaneously members. Results of all three studies lend support to the hypothesis that reactions to an ingroup are affected not only by the status of that group, but also by the status of another group of which an individual is simultaneously member: Individuals tend to perceive an ingroup as having higher status, and to identify with it more, if they are simultaneously members of a different group which has low rather than high status. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Morphological studies on the culture of kidney epithelial cells in a fiber‐in‐fiber bioreactor design with hollow fiber membranes
Authors: Fey‐Lamprecht F. , Albrecht W. , Groth T. , Weigel T. , Gross U.
Published: May 2003

A hollow fiber‐in‐fiber–based bioreactor system was tested for the applicability to host kidney epithelial cells as a model system for a bioartificial kidney. Hollow fibers were prepared from polyacrylonitrile (PAN), polysulfone‐polyvinylpyrollidinone (PVP) blend (PSU) and poly(acrylonitrile‐N‐vinylpyrollidinone) copolymer P(AN‐NVP). Hollow fibers with smaller and larger diameters were prepared so that the smaller fitted into the larger, with a distance of 50–100 μm in between. The following material combinations as outer and inner fiber were applied: PAN‐PAN; PSU‐PSU, PSU‐P(AN‐NVP). Madin–Darby kidney epithelial cells (MDCK) were seeded in the interfiber space and cultured for a period up to 14 days. Light, scanning, and transmission electron microscopy were used to follow the adhesion and growth of cells, and to characterize their morphology. As a result, we found that MDCK cells were able to grow in the interfiber space in mono‐ and multilayers without signs of systemic degeneration. Comparison of the different materials showed that PAN and P(AN‐NVP) provided the best growth conditions, indicated by a tight attachment of cells on hollow fiber membrane, and subsequent proliferation and development of structural elements of normal epithelia, such as tight junctions and microvilli. In conclusion, the fiber‐in‐fiber design seems to be an interesting system for the construction of a bioartificial kidney. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res 65A: 144–157, 2003
Injectable drug‐delivery systems based on supramolecular hydrogels formed by poly(ethylene oxide)s and α‐cyclodextrin
Authors: Li Jun , Ni Xiping , Leong Kam W.
Published: May 2003

Polymeric hydrogels long have attracted interest for biomaterials applications because of their generally favorable biocompatibility. High in water content, they are particularly attractive for delivery of delicate bioactive agents, such as proteins. However, because they require covalent crosslinking for gelation, many hydrogels can be applied only as implantables, and incorporation of drugs by sorption may be time‐consuming and limiting with regard to the loading level. Therefore a delivery formulation where gelation and drug loading can be achieved simultaneously, taking place in an aqueous environment and without covalent crosslinking, would be attractive. Herein is described a new class of injectable and bioabsorbable supramolecular hydrogels formed from poly(ethylene oxide)s (PEOs) and α‐cyclodextrin (α‐CD) for controlled drug delivery. The hydrogel formation is based on physical crosslinking induced by supramolecular self‐assembling with no chemical crosslinking reagent involved. The supramolecular structure of the hydrogels was confirmed with wide‐angle X‐ray diffraction studies. The gelation kinetics was found to be dependent on the concentrations of the polymer and α‐CD as well as on the molecular weight of the PEO used. The rheologic studies of the hydrogels showed that the hydrogels were thixotropic and reversible and that they could be injected through fine needles. The components of the supramolecular hydrogels potentially are biocompatible and nontoxic. Drugs can be encapsulated directly into the hydrogels in situ at room temperature without any contact with organic solvents. The supramolecular hydrogels were evaluated in terms of their in vitro release kinetics. The rate‐controlling mechanism of macromolecular drug release might be the erosion of the hydrogels. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res 65A: 196–202, 2003
Study of the toughening mechanisms in bone and biomimetic hydroxyapatite materials using Raman microprobe spectroscopy
Authors: Pezzotti Giuseppe , Sakakura Seiji
Published: May 2003

A Raman microprobe spectroscopy characterization of microscopic fracture mechanisms is presented for a natural hydroxyapatite material (cortical bovine femur) and two synthetic hydroxyapatite‐based materials with biomimetic structures—a hydroxyapatite skeleton interpenetrated with a metallic (silver) or a polymeric (nylon‐6) phase. In both the natural and synthetic materials, a conspicuous amount of toughening arose from a microscopic crack‐bridging mechanism operated by elasto‐plastic stretching of unbroken second‐phase ligaments along the crack wake. This mechanism led to a rising R‐curve behavior. An additional micromechanism, responsible for stress relaxation at the crack tip, was recognized in the natural bone material and was partly mimicked in the hydroxyapatite/silver composite. This crack‐tip mechanism conspicuously enhanced the cortical bone material resistance to fracture initiation. A piezo‐spectroscopic technique, based on a microprobe measurement of 980 cm−1 Raman line of hydroxyapatite, enabled us to quantitatively assess in situ the microscopic stress fields developed during fracture both at the crack tip and along the crack wake. Using the Raman piezo‐spectroscopy technique, toughening mechanisms were assessed quantitatively and rationally related to the macroscopic fracture characteristics of hydroxyapatite‐based materials. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res 65A: 229–236, 2003
Deposition of bone‐like apatite on silk fiber in a solution that mimics extracellular fluid
Authors: Takeuchi Akari , Ohtsuki Chikara , Miyazaki Toshiki , Tanaka Hiromi , Yamazaki Masao , Tanihara Masao
Published: May 2003

The fabrication of apatite–organic polymer hybrids is one of several attractive methods for the development of biomaterials as a substitute for bone. Such materials have both bone‐bonding ability and mechanical properties analogous to natural bone. The biomimetic process has focused attention on fabricating such hybrids, where bone‐like apatite is deposited on an organic polymer surface in solutions that mimic physiological conditions. In this process, a bone‐like apatite layer can be coated onto organic substrates either by using a simulated body fluid (SBF) with ion concentrations nearly equal to those of human extracellular fluid, or by using fluids that are supersaturated with respect to apatite at ambient conditions. In this study, we investigated the ability of natural silk and its related materials to facilitate apatite deposition under biomimetic conditions. Cloths made of raw silk or normal silk fibers were soaked in 1.5SBF, which has 1.5 times the ion concentration of SBF. Sericin film, which is made from an extract of degummed raw silk, was soaked in 1.5SBF. The cloth and the film soaked in 1.5SBF then were characterized by scanning electron microscopic (SEM) observation, energy dispersive X‐ray microanalysis (EDX), and thin‐film X‐ray diffraction (TF‐XRD). Apatite deposition was observed on the surface of cloth made from raw silk fiber after it was soaked in 1.5SBF, but it was not observed on cloth made from normal silk fibers. The apatite deposition on the raw silk fiber cloth was accelerated when the fibers were subjected to treatment with CaCl2 solution at a concentration of at least 1 kmol/m3 before immersion in 1.5SBF. Apatite deposition also was observed on the sericin film after the film was soaked in 1.5SBF for 7 days. These results indicate that apatite deposition on raw silk cloth is attributable to the catalytic effect of sericin because the surface of raw silk consists of sericin whereas that of normal silk contains fibroin. The deposition of the apatite and its crystal growth are accelerated by the presence of calcium ions on the sericin after treatment with CaCl2 solution. Thus, sericin on natural silk fiber has the potential to facilitate apatite deposition and can be useful as a polymer material in the fabrication of hybrid materials analogous to bone through biomimetic processes. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res 65A: 283–289, 2003
Adhesion and migration of marrow‐derived osteoblasts on injectablein situcrosslinkable poly(propylene fumarate‐co‐ethylene glycol)‐based hydrogels with a covalently linked RGDS peptide
Authors: Behravesh Esfandiar , Zygourakis Kyriacos , Mikos Antonios G.
Published: May 2003

Marrow‐derived osteoblasts were cultured on poly(propylene fumarate‐co‐ethylene glycol) (P(PF‐co‐EG)) based hydrogels modified in bulk with a covalently linked RGDS model peptide. A poly(ethylene glycol) spacer arm was utilized to covalently link the peptide to the hydrogel. Three P(PF‐co‐EG) block copolymers were synthesized with varying poly(ethylene glycol) block lengths relative to poly(ethylene glycol) spacer arm. A poly(ethylene glycol) block length of nominal molecular weight 2000 and spacer arm of nominal molecular weight 3400 were found to reduce nonspecific cell adhesion and show RGDS concentration dependent marrow‐derived osteoblast adhesion. A concentration of 100 nmol/mL RGDS was sufficient to promote adhesion of 84 ± 17% of the initial seeded marrow‐derived osteoblasts compared with 9 ± 1% for the unmodified hydrogel after 12 h. Cell spreading was quantified as a method for evaluating adhesivity of cells to the hydrogel. A megacolony migration assay was utilized to assess the migration characteristics of the marrow‐derived osteoblasts on RGDS modified hydrogels. Marrow‐stromal osteoblasts migration was greater on hydrogels modified with 100 nmol/mL linked RGDS when compared with hydrogels modified with 1000 nmol/mL linked RGDS, while proliferation was not affected. These P(PF‐co‐EG) hydrogels modified in the bulk with RGDS peptide are potential candidates asin situforming scaffolds for bone tissue engineering applications. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res 65A: 260–270, 2003
Perspectives on blood/materials interactions
Authors: Vroman Leo
Published: May 2003

Abstract.
Enhanced solubility of paclitaxel using water‐soluble and biocompatible 2‐methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine polymers
Authors: Konno Tomohiro , Watanabe Junji , Ishihara Kazuhiko
Published: May 2003

The purpose of this study was to enhance the water‐solubility of paclitaxel (PTX) using an amphiphilic 2‐methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine (MPC) polymer as the solubilizer. PTX is an antineoplastic drug effective for various cancers, especially for ovarian and breast cancers. However, its solubility in aqueous medium is quite low, less than 0.1 μg/mL in water. We prepared the amphiphilic MPC polymers containing hydrophobic units to form aggregates and provide hydrophobic domains in water. The most effective polymer to dissolve the PTX was poly[MPC‐co‐n‐butyl methacrylate(BMA) (PMB30W)] with 70 mol % of the BMA unit. The inside polarity of PMB30W aggregate was the same as that of ethanol, which is a good solvent for dissolving PTX. The diameter of PMB30W aggregate containing 1 mg/mL of PTX was 50 nm in aqueous medium. The concentration of PTX in the PMB30W aqueous solution reached 5.0 mg/mL. The solution was transparent and PTX did not precipitate even when the solution was stored at room temperature for 1 month. Animal experiments indicated that the PMB30W has no adverse effect even when the polymer solution is injected into the bloodstream. From the PMB30W/PTX solution, we prepared by the solvent evaporation method a PMB30W film containing PTX with good transparency. The PMB30W film containing PTX easily dissolved in water to give a clear solution. We conclude that the water‐soluble amphiphilic MPC polymers are good solubilizers for PTX as injectable and biocompatible drug formulations. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res 65A: 209–214, 2003
Effect of multiple herpesvirus infections on the progression of HIV disease in a cohort of HIV seroconverters
Authors: Suligoi Barbara , Dorrucci Maria , Uccella Ilaria , Andreoni Massimo , Rezza Giovanni
Published: May 2003

The effects of herpesviruses infection on the progression of HIV disease remain controversial, with some studies showing accelerated progression and others showing no effect. Furthermore, the effect of concurrent infection with more than one herpesvirus on the progression of HIV disease has never been investigated. To this end, the rates of progression of HIV disease were determined after stratifying for the presence of up to five different herpesvirus infections. The study population consisted of 359 HIV‐infected persons for whom the date of seroconversion was estimated (part of the Italian Seroconversion Study). One serum sample from each participant was tested for antibodies to five herpesviruses: HSV‐2, CMV, HHV‐6, HHV‐7, and HHV‐8. Univariate analysis showed that HSV‐2 and HHV‐8 were significantly associated with progression to AIDS, yet when adjusting for age at HIV seroconversion and for the presence of the other herpesvirus infections, only HHV‐8 infection showed a significant association. The age‐adjusted risk of progression to AIDS with Kaposi's sarcoma increased with the number of herpesvirus infections and was significant in individuals with four infections. The risk of progression to AIDS without Kaposi's sarcoma also increased with the number of infections, although not significantly. Similar results were found when considering CD4+ cell count <200 × 106 cells/L as the endpoint. Concurrent infection with more than one herpesvirus does not appear to have a significant effect on the course of HIV disease, except for the known association between HHV‐8 and Kaposi's sarcoma. However, even after excluding Kaposi's sarcoma from the AIDS‐defining endpoints, a slightly increased risk for participants with four herpesvirus infections remained. J. Med. Virol. 69:182–187, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Analyses of Epstein‐Barr virus latent membrane protein‐1 in Malaysian nasopharyngeal carcinoma: High prevalence of 30‐bp deletion, Xho1 polymorphism and evidence of dual infections
Authors: Tan Eng‐Lai , Peh Suat‐Cheng , Sam Choon‐Kook
Published: May 2003

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma, a malignancy associated closely with Epstein‐Barr virus (EBV), is prevalent among Chinese of Southern China origin. Epidemiological studies indicate a high prevalence of EBV in Asia with viral isolates having typical characteristics of the putative viral oncogene, latent membrane protein 1 (LMP‐1), such as the loss of the Xho1 restriction site in Exon 1 and the 30‐bp deletion in Exon 3. The EBV LMP‐1 gene from throat washings of 120 nasopharyngeal carcinoma patients and 14 healthy individuals were analyzed. Similar analyses were also carried out on 30 and 12 postnasal space biopsies from nasopharyngeal carcinoma patients and healthy individuals, respectively. The 30‐bp deletion was detected in 20% of nasopharyngeal carcinoma throat washes and in 100% of nasopharyngeal carcinoma postnasal space biopsies. Interestingly, 16% of the nasopharyngeal carcinoma biopsies possessed both the deleted and the undeleted variants, suggestive of dual infections. The notion of dual infections in nasopharyngeal carcinoma was further supported by the coexistence of both “F” and “f” (BamH1F region) EBV variants in 11% of the nasopharyngeal carcinoma biopsies. All of the throat washes and biopsies from the healthy controls showed the undeleted variant. The loss of the Xho1 restriction site was found with higher frequency both in throat washes and biopsies from patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma. The discrepancy in the frequency of the 30‐bp deletion between throat washes (20%) and postnasal space biopsies (100%) was an indication that this deletion is specific for viral isolates from primary tumour sites. J. Med. Virol. 69:251–257, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Inter‐laboratory comparison of HCV‐RNA assay results: Implications for multi‐centre research
Authors: Pembrey Lucy , Newell Marie‐Louise , Tovo Pier‐Angelo , van Drimmelen Harry , Quinti Isabella , Furlini Giuliano , Galli Silvia , Meliconi Maria Grazia , Burns Sheila , Hallam Nick , Sönnerborg Anders , Cilla Gustavo , Serrano Esther , Laccetti Paolo , Portella Giuseppe , Polywka Susanne , Icardi Giancarlo , Bruzzone Bianca , Balbo Luciano , Alfarano Alda
Published: May 2003

To investigate whether it is appropriate to assume comparability of hepatitis virus C (HCV)‐RNA results across laboratories in multi‐centre studies, nine laboratories of the European Paediatric HCV Network participated in an international proficiency study of HCV‐RNA assays. A panel of 12 samples of different dilutions and genotypes was sent to each laboratory and tested with qualitative and/or quantitative HCV‐RNA assays according to local procedures. Commercial assays were used in seven laboratories and in‐house assays in two. All six laboratories in which a commercial qualitative assay was used were proficient, as were four of six runs (in five laboratories) in which a commercial quantitative assay was used. The proficiency of the laboratories where in‐house assays were used could not be assessed according to the VQC definition because of differences in the methods used. Overall, there were several false‐negative results, but only one false‐positive result with a quantitative assay and none with a qualitative assay. The false‐negative results may have implications for the diagnosis of infection, and highlight the need for an antibody test to be performed at 18 months to confirm the absence of infection. The results of qualitative assays were generally consistent across laboratories but it was difficult to evaluate and compare the results of quantitative assays. Multivariate analysis of data collected in multi‐centre studies should therefore allow for centre and/or assay used. J. Med. Virol. 69:195–201, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Case report: Kinetics of Epstein‐Barr virus load in a bone marrow transplant patient with no sign of lymphoproliferative disease
Authors: Biasolo Maria Angela , Calistri Arianna , Cesaro Simone , Gentile Giuseppe , Mengoli Carlo , Palù Giorgio
Published: May 2003

The kinetics of Epstein‐Barr virus (EBV) load was measured in peripheral blood mononuclear cells of a severely immunocompromised allogeneic bone marrow recipient child, in conditions not associated with lymphoproliferative disease. The viral doubling time was 46.4 hr. The study permitted monitoring EBV clearance from blood, when the anti‐rejection therapy was interrupted. Likely, this is the first accurate kinetic assessment of EBV load increasing phase in a clinical context marked by the absence of an overt post‐transplant lymphoproliferative disease. According to these data γ‐herpesviruses behave like β‐herpesviruses in being capable of rapid growth. J. Med. Virol. 69:220–224, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Synergistic antiviral effect of a combination of mouse interferon‐α and interferon‐γ on mouse hepatitis virus
Authors: Fuchizaki Uichiro , Kaneko Shuichi , Nakamoto Yasunari , Sugiyama Yoshihiro , Imagawa Kenichi , Kikuchi Mikio , Kobayashi Kenichi
Published: May 2003

Although interferon (IFN)‐α and IFN‐γ have been reported to exhibit a synergistic antiviral effect through the different signaling pathways in vitro, their therapeutic efficacy is not well defined in vivo. The current study was carried out to investigate the combined antiviral effect in a model of mouse hepatitis virus Type 2 (MHV‐2) infection, in which fulminant hepatitis is developed. MHV‐2 was injected intraperitoneally into 4‐week‐old ICR mice, IFN or the vehicle was administered intramuscularly for 5 days, and the antiviral effect was evaluated based on survival periods, liver histology, serum alanine transaminase (ALT) levels, and MHV‐2 virus titers in the liver tissues. The animals in the group treated with a combination of IFN‐α and IFN‐γ survived for longer periods than the groups treated with IFN‐α alone and IFN‐γ alone (IFN‐α 103 (IU/mouse)/‐γ 103 vs. IFN‐α 103, P < 0.005; IFN‐α 103/‐γ 103 vs. IFN‐γ 103, P < 0.001). This is consistent with the lower levels of hepatocellular necrosis and serum ALT and the decreased titers of MHV‐2 virus in the liver tissues (48 hr, P < 0.001; 72 hr, P < 0.001). These findings indicate that a combination of IFN‐α and IFN‐γ exhibits a synergistic antiviral effect on MHV‐2 infection. The biology of MHV‐2 is quite different from that of human hepatitis viruses; however, these results suggest the beneficial combined therapy of IFN‐α and IFN‐γ for the treatment of human viral hepatitis. J. Med. Virol. 69:188–194, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Genome types of adenovirus type 7 isolated in Hiroshima City
Authors: Ikeda Yoshifumi , Yamaoka Koji , Noda Mamoru , Ogino Takeo
Published: May 2003

One hundred thirty‐two strains of adenovirus type 7 were isolated in Hiroshima City during the period 1995–1999. About 80% of the viruses were isolated from patients with respiratory illness, and about 70% were isolated from children younger than 6 years old. DNA restriction analysis was performed on 58 of the 132 isolates. Two genome types corresponding to adenovirus 7d and adenovirus 7h were recognized using BamHI. By using an additional 10 restriction endonucleases (BclI, BglI, BglII, BstEII, HindIII, HpaI, SmaI, PstI, PvuII, and SacI), the 58 isolates were classified finally into five genome types according to Wadell and coworkers' nomenclature system: adenovirus 7d2 (54 isolates), adenovirus 7d3 (one isolate), adenovirus 7d4 (one isolate), adenovirus 7d5 (one isolate), and adenovirus 7h (one isolate), among which adenovirus 7d3, 7d4, and 7d5 were new genome types. Our results indicate that the predominant genome type of adenovirus 7 that circulated in Hiroshima City during the period May 1995–November 1999 was adenovirus 7d2. J. Med. Virol. 69:215–219, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Studies of Injection‐Moulded Isotactic Poly(propylene) by Synchrotron WAXD/SAXS: Effects of Nucleating Agent on Morphological Distribution
Authors: Zhu Peng‐Wei , Edward Graham
Published: May 2003

The morphological distribution of injection‐moulded isotactic poly(propylene) (iPP) plates in the presence of nucleating agents was extensively investigated using synchrotron radiation. The commercial PP compound was injection‐moulded under a variety of different conditions in order to explore the effects of shear flow and temperature on the morphology and morphological distribution. The iPP structures obtained were characterized using the degree of crystallinity, α‐phase orientation index, β‐phase index, long spacing of lamellae, and the thickness of both crystalline and amorphous lamellae. These parameters were plotted as a function of position through the plate depth for the injection‐moulding conditions. Unlike relatively pure iPP, the distributions of crystallinity and α‐phase orientation index in this commercial iPP are independent of position through the plate depth. The “skin‐core” structure that is generally found for injection‐moulded iPP is not present because of the addition of nucleating agents. The β‐phase of iPP has the same distribution through the plate depth as that expected for iPP without nucleating agents. Additionally, the lamellar dimension is found to be independent of position through the plate depth and the fraction of noncrystalline materials residing outside the lamellar stacks can be up to about 30%. The results indicate that the properties of different injection‐moulded iPP grades should be investigated individually.

Typical WAXS patterns of the sample S9 at different labeled distances from the surface. The patterns are vertically shifted for clarity.

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Typical WAXS patterns of the sample S9 at different labeled distances from the surface. The patterns are vertically shifted for clarity.
Telomerization of Butyl Methacrylate and 1‐Octadecanethiol by Reactive Extrusion
Authors: Chen Jianding , Chalamet Yvan , Taha Mohamed
Published: May 2003

Butyl methacrylate and 1‐octadecanethiol telomers were prepared by radical reactive extrusion. The main advantages of the use of this processing technique are that mass reactions can be conducted and continuous production is achieved within a reduced reaction time and a correct temperature control. Preliminary studies concerned the choice of the reactants for the telomerization reaction and the adaptation of the telomerization reaction to the reactive extrusion process. The transfer constant to C18H37SH was measured, and then experimental studies were conducted to verify that the hypothesis and approximations made for kinetic modeling are realistic. Particularly, it was shown that the use of relatively high chain‐transfer agent to monomer concentration ratio had no perceptible effect on the monomer conversion kinetic. These results allowed the choice of reactive extrusion conditions. Telomers were prepared using a laboratory co‐rotating twin‐screw extruder. The effect of reaction conditions (temperature, 1‐octadecanethiol to monomer concentration ratio) and of processing conditions (throughput, screw rotation speed) on the residence time distributions, molar mass and monomer conversions were examined. This study allowed the continuous synthesis of butyl methacrylate telomers having variable controlled molar masses and complete monomer conversion.

Screw profile used in reactive extrusion telomerization.

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Screw profile used in reactive extrusion telomerization.
Monodisperse Silica‐Polymer Core‐Shell Microspheres via Surface Grafting and Emulsion Polymerization
Authors: Zhang Kai , Chen Haitao , Chen Xin , Chen Zhimin , Cui Zhanchen , Yang Bai
Published: May 2003

We describe a flexible method for preparing monodisperse silica‐polystyrene core‐shell microspheres. In this method, silica nanoparticles grafted with 3‐(trimethoxysilyl)propyl methacrylate (MPS) were employed as seeds in an emulsion polymerization. The thickness of the shells could be changed through varying the amount of the monomer. The monodispersity and diameters of the core‐shell microspheres were found to depend on the size of the grafted silica nanoparticles and the concentration of emulsifier. In addition, we investigated the formation mechanism of the core‐shell microspheres.

Schematic outline of the experimental procedure and TEM image of the monodisperse silica/PS core‐shell microspheres; inset: grafted silica nanoparticles (scale bar = 200 nm).

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Schematic outline of the experimental procedure and TEM image of the monodisperse silica/PS core‐shell microspheres; inset: grafted silica nanoparticles (scale bar = 200 nm).
On Blends of Polyamide 6 and a Hyperbranched Aramid
Authors: Monticelli Orietta , Oliva Daniela , Russo Saverio , Clausnitzer Carola , Pötschke Petra , Voit Brigitte
Published: May 2003

The hyperbranched (HB) aromatic polyamide synthesised by direct polycondensation of 5‐(4‐aminobenzoylamino)isophthalic acid (ABZAIA) has been solution‐ and melt‐ blended with polyamide 6 (PA6) incorporating different end groups. The concentration of p(ABZAIA) in PA6 has been varied from 5 to 30 wt.‐% in order to evaluate the influence of hyperbranched polymer content on blend properties. Viscosity and glass transition (Tg) data of the solution blends underlined the full miscibility between the components in the explored composition range. The miscibility was not related to any specific type of PA6 end group, thus suggesting a major role for its amide groups in interacting (presumably via hydrogen bonding) with HB functional end groups. Well‐separated powder particles have been obtained by precipitation from diluted solutions both for the neat polymers and for the blends. Also, in the case of blends prepared by melt mixing Tg linearly increased with the HB polymer content, again confirming full miscibility between the blend components. Blend characterisation, solubility tests and melt rheology supported the idea that p(ABZAIA) forms reactive blends with polyamide 6 by melt mixing. As a consequence of these reactions, the hyperbranched aramid strongly modified the rheological behaviour of PA6.

Formation of well dispersed spherical and homogeneous particles after precipitation of a PA6 dilute solution.

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Formation of well dispersed spherical and homogeneous particles after precipitation of a PA6 dilute solution.
Chemical Kinetics, Simulation, and Thermodynamics of Glycolytic Depolymerization of Poly(ethylene terephthalate) Waste with Catalyst Optimization for Recycling of Value Added Monomeric Products
Authors: Goje A. S. , Mishra S.
Published: May 2003

Reaction of poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) waste powder with ethylene glycol (EG) was carried out in a batch reactor at 1 atm pressure and at various temperatures ranging from 100–220 °C at the intervals of 10 °C. Particle size from 50–512.5 μm, reaction time from 30–150 min, amount of catalyst from 0.001–0.009 mol, and type of catalysts required for glycolysis of PET were optimized. To increase the PET weight (%) loss, various external catalysts were introduced during the reaction at different reaction parameters. Depolymerization of PET was increased with reaction time and temperature. Depolymerization of PET was decreased with increase in the particle size of PET. Reaction rate was found to depend on concentrations of liquid ethylene glycol and ethylene diester groups in the polyester. Analyses of value added monomeric products (DMT and EG) as well as PET were undertaken. Yields of monomers were agreed with PET conversion. A kinetic model was proposed and simulated, and observed consistent with experimental data. Comparisons of effect of various amounts of catalysts and type of catalysts on glycolysis rate were undertaken. Dependence of the rate constant on reaction temperature was correlated by Arrhenius plot, which shows activation energy of 46.2 kJ/mol and Arrhenius constant of 99 783 min−1.

Arrhenius plot of the rate constant of glycolysis at 1 atm pressure for 127.5 μm PET particle size (KZA = rate constant using zinc acetate as a catalyst, KMA = rate constant using manganese acetate as a catalyst).

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Arrhenius plot of the rate constant of glycolysis at 1 atm pressure for 127.5 μm PET particle size (KZA = rate constant using zinc acetate as a catalyst, KMA = rate constant using manganese acetate as a catalyst).