bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stress Relaxation of Sugi (Cryptomeria japonica D.Don) Wood in Radial Compression under High Temperature Steam
Authors: Dwianto W. , Morooka T. , Norimoto M. , Kitajima T.
Published: October 2004

To clarify the mechanism of the permanent fixation of compressive deformation of wood by high temperature steaming, stress relaxation and stress-strain relationships in the radial compression for Sugi (Cryptomeria japonica D.Don) wood were measured under steam at temperatures up to 200°C. The stress relaxation curves above 100°C were quite different in shape from those below 100°C, showing a rapid decrease in stress with increasing temperature. In the stress-strain relationships measured above 140°C, the stress reduced as pre-steaming time increased when compared at the same strain. The recovery of compressive deformation (strain recovery) was decreased with steaming time and reached almost 0 in 10 min at 200°C. The relationship between the residual stress and the strain recovery at the end of relaxation measurements could be expressed by a single curve regardless of time and temperature. The permanent fixation of deformation by steaming below 200°C was considered to be due to chain scission of hemicelluloses accompanying a slight cleavage of lignin. In some cases, the increase in regularity of the crystalline lattice space of microfibrils or the formation of crosslinks between the cell wall polymers seemed to play an important role in the permanent fixation of compressive deformation.
Structural Performance of Fire-Retardant Treated Plywood: Effect of Elevated Temperature
Authors: Wang Song-Yung , Rao Yu-Chen
Published: October 2004

This paper was designed to investigate the change of bending strength, bonding shear strength and surface fire-retardant (FR) performance of FR treated plywood after accelerated degradation treatment at elevated temperature (77 °C) and medium humidity (50%RH) condition. Furthermore, thermogravimetry analysis (TGA) and differential scanning curves (DSC) analysis were also conducted to explore their thermal degradation. PF-bonded Red meranti (Shorea spp.) and radiata pine (Pinus radiata) plywood, FR chemicals of AF21 and Lee-An 302 were used.

Results indicated that the bending strength and bonding shear strength of non-FR treated and FR treated plywood decreased linearly with the increase of treatment durations. After 80 days of accelerated degradation treatment, the reduction ratio ( %) of bending strength ranged from 6.5% to 33.4% and varied with treatment conditions, whereas 12.8% to 42.3% reduction ratios were observed in bonding shear strength. After subjected to accelerated degradation treatment FR treated plywood could meet the requirement of the third grade FR performance as specified by CNS 6532 standard except those treated with Lee-An 302 FR for 20 days and 40 days. Furthermore, based on TGA, the weight loss of FR treated plywood was found to be less than that of non-FR treated plywoods. After thermal degradation under 100°C, the residual weight of FR treated plywood was higher than that of non-FR treated plywoods.
Copper Accumulation in the Digestive Caecae of Limnoria quadripunctata Holthius (Isopoda: Crustacea) Tunnelling CCA-Treated Wood in Laboratory Cultures
Authors: Tupper C. , Pitman A.J. , Cragg S. M.
Published: October 2004

To investigate the mechanisms by which the isopod Limnoria tolerates copper, chromium and arsenic
when tunnelling CCA-treated wood in the marine environment, digestive caecae of specimens of L.
quadripunctata from CCA-treated and untreated Pinus sylvestris sapwood were examined using transmission
electron microscopy (TEM) and energy dispersive X-ray detection (EDX). Copper-containing
granules were found to be present in the small cells of the digestive caecae (midgut) of Limnoria from
both treated and untreated wood. However, individuals tunnelling treated timber contained a greater
number of granules, with six types of morphology being distinguished of which only two were present
in Limnoria from untreated wood. The presence of copper-containing granules in Limnoria from untreated
timber may be explained by the ability of this isopod to acquire and store copper from seawater for
use in enzymes and blood pigments. The increased number of copper granules in individuals tunnelling
treated wood was believed to result from elevated levels of this element in the food substrate. This ability
to store copper allows these organisms to tolerate this metal in the wood substrate and may explain
how this organism is able to attack CCA-treated wood in service. No chromium, or arsenic, was detected
in the digestive caecal cells.
Medium Density Fibreboard Manufactured from Blends of White Cypress Pine and Non-Durable Wood Species Shows Increased Resistance to Attack by the Subterranean Termite C. lacteus
Authors: Evans P.D. , Dimitriades S. , Cunningham R.B. , Donnelly C.F.
Published: October 2004

Medium density fibreboards consisting of blends of the naturally durable wood species white cypress
pine (Callitris glaucophylla) and non-durable wood species were manufactured in a commercial plant
and subjected to a bioassay using the subterranean termite species, Coptotermes lacteus. A board composed
of 30% cypress pine, 30% slash pine (Pinus elliottii) and 40% of the naturally durable hardwood
species spotted gum (Corymbia maculata) was also manufactured and bioassayed against C. lacteus. The
aims were to determine (i) whether boards containing cypress pine possessed increased resistance to termite
attack compared to a control manufactured entirely from non-durable wood species; (ii) the relationship
between the cypress pine content of boards and their resistance (if any) to termite attack; (iii)
whether the termite resistance of boards containing cypress pine could be further enhanced by the addition
of spotted gum fibre. There was an inverse relationship between the cypress pine content of MDF
specimens and mass losses of the specimens during the bioassay; the percentage mass losses of specimens
containing 11.4, 16.2 and 34.2% cypress pine being 20.3, 13.4 and 8.8%, respectively, compared
to 32.8% for the control, which consisted of non-durable slash pine (80%) and hoop pine (Araucaria
cunninghamii) (20%) fibre. There was strong evidence that the inverse relationship between the cypress
pine content of boards and mass losses during the bioassay was linear, although a statistically significant
quadratic (curvilinear) effect was also apparent. The addition of spotted gum fibre to boards did not
increase their resistance to termite attack. Cypress pine heartwood contains a variety of extractives that
are either toxic or repellent to termites, and the increased termite resistance of MDF containing cypress
pine compared to the control is probably due to the insecticidal effect of such chemicals on C. lacteus.
The incorporation of cypress pine fibre into MDF shows promise as an alternative to chemical biocides
for increasing the resistance of MDF to termites. However, the response of termites to heartwood extractives
varies between species, and therefore further experimentation is needed to test the resistance of
MDF containing cypress pine fibre to attack by greater range of wood destroying termites under test conditions
that more closely simulate field conditions.
Bleachability of Alkaline Pulps. Part 1. The Importance of β-Aryl Ether Linkages in Lignin
Authors: Gellerstedt G. , Al-Dajani W. Wafa
Published: October 2004

Analytical and structural studies were done on different types of alkaline pulps and their isolated residual
lignins. Although having the same degree of delignification after cooking, some pulps were easier to
bleach than others. All isolated residual lignins were found to contain β-aryl ether (β-O-4) structures in
reasonable amounts when analysed by thioacidolysis (≥10 % of the native lignin value). At decreasing
kappa numbers, there was also a corresponding decrease in the amount of β-aryl ether structures in the
residual lignin. Moreover, a high β-aryl ether content in the unbleached residual lignin after cooking was
found to contribute to a better bleachability of the pulp, especially when hydrogen peroxide stages were
involved. At the same degree of delignification, the superior bleachability of alkaline sulfite pulps over
kraft pulps was shown to be attributable to a higher content of β-aryl ether linkages in the former type
of pulps.
Pulping of Whole Jute Plant (Corchorus capsularies) by Soda-Amine Liquor
Authors: Jahan M. Sarwar , Farouqui F.I.
Published: October 2004

Pulping of whole jute plant is done by sodium hydroxide and ethylenediamine (EDA) or monoethanolamine
(MEA) within 1 hour of cooking. The pulp yield is considerably higher than for the control
soda and kraft pulps. Pulps obtained are better in physical properties as compared to kraft and soda pulps.
The apparent density of soda-EDA pulps decreases with the increase of EDA in the soda liquor whereas
the apparent density of soda-MEA pulps increases with the increase of MEA in soda liquor.
Pattern of Alkali Impregnation of Poplar Wood at Moderate Conditions
Authors: Zanuttini M. , Citroni M. , Marzocchi V.
Published: October 2004

The impregnation pattern of alkali in fresh Cottonwood is analysed. Isothermal process, medium alkali-concentration,
temperature below 100°C and tangential direction are considered. The degree of deacetylation
in the wood is taken as an indicator of the whole chemical action of the alkali. Profiles of alkali
concentration, alkali content, liquid content and acetyl content in the wood are experimentally determined.
The results show that wood behaves rather like a glassy polymeric solid placed in contact with a
solvent. An advancing boundary zone is established which separates an intact inner part from the outer
swollen zone. Alkali concentration and acetyl groups content profiles can approximately be described by
a model used to analyse the reaction of solids: the shrinking core model. The chemical reaction in the
front is the controlling mechanism. The swelling of the cell walls together with the occupation of the
hollow cavities of the wood by the liquor make it possible for the wood liquid content to increase up to
almost 3 g liquid g wood−1.

The procedure here adopted and the impregnation pattern proposed are valuable tools to analyse the
effect of wood direction and process variables such as temperature, alkali concentration and initial wood
moisture. They could also be very useful to build a model for alkaline impregnation of wood under moderate
conditions.
Variations in Transverse Fibre Wall Properties: Relations Between Elastic Properties and Structure
Authors: Bergander A. , Salmén L.
Published: October 2004

The transverse mechanical properties of the wood fibre play important roles in the use of wood and its
fibres in various applications. However, the variation in properties of fibres from different parts of the
tree and the relation of these properties to the structure of the fibre is not yet established. This study
focuses on the variation in the transverse elastic modulus of the fibre wall and its relation to the fibril
structure of the S2- and S1-layer. For this reason the local fibril angle of radial and tangential fibre walls
were measured by polarisation confocal microscopy. It was shown that the variation in fibril angle of the
S2-layer seems to have very little influence on the transverse modulus of the fibres. Instead the thickness
and fibril angle of the S1- and thus also the S3-layer should contribute to the variation in transverse modulus
between earlywood and transition wood fibres. The importance of the ray cells for the transverse
elastic properties of the wood was also emphasised.
The effects of protective helmet use on physiology and cognition in young cricketers
Authors: Neave Nick , Emmett John , Moss Mark , Ayton Rebecca , Scholey Andrew , Wesnes Keith
Published: October 2004

Many studies have reported physiological and cognitive decrements following heat stress. Of particular concern in cricket are the possible negative effects of sustained protective helmet use, as this leads to an increase in heat‐related stress. Correct and rapid decision making, and focused attention are essential for efficient performance whilst batting, and it is possible that helmet usage could impair such processes. In a repeated‐measures, randomized crossover study, physiological, self‐report, and cognitive measures were taken from 16 teenage cricketers before and after moderately intense (batting) exercise. Participants underwent the assessments twice, once while wearing a standard protective helmet, and again, when not wearing a helmet (counterbalanced). While helmet use did not lead to significant physiological changes, wearing a helmet led to some cognitive impairments in attention, vigilance and reaction times. These preliminary findings could have significance for cognitively demanding sports (and perhaps military and industrial settings) in which participants perform cognitively demanding operations under conditions of physical exercise whilst wearing protective helmets. Additional factors of hydration, exercise duration, and helmet design are discussed. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Streptococcus bovis septic shock due to contaminated transfused platelets
Authors: Chang Andrew H. , Kirsch Carl M. , Mobashery Niloufar , Johnson Nancy , Levitt Lee J.
Published: October 2004

Although most physicians and the public are primarily concerned about the risk of transmitting human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or hepatitis virus during a platelet transfusion, bacterial contamination is actually the most common infectious complication. Unlike red blood cells, platelets are stored at room temperature (20–24°C), which raises the risk of bacterial proliferation. The risk of bacterial sepsis is 2.5‐fold higher for each unit of transfused platelets compared to each unit of red blood cells. We report an unusual case of Streptococcus bovis septic shock associated with a contaminated platelet transfusion. Am. J. Hematol. 77:282–286, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Rituximab for refractory Evans syndrome and other immune‐mediated hematologic diseases
Authors: Mantadakis Elpis , Danilatou Vassiliki , Stiakaki Eftichia , Kalmanti Maria
Published: October 2004

The authors describe a 21‐year‐old man with long‐lasting Evans syndrome refractory to corticosteroids and immunosuppressive agents; the patient responded to four weekly infusions of rituximab. The patient relapsed with thrombocytopenia 7 months post‐therapy and was successfully re‐treated with two weekly doses of the same monoclonal antibody. He remains in remission for 7‐plus months after the second treatment. Therapy was well tolerated, and no infectious complications occurred, despite avoiding administration of prophylactic gammaglobulin. Rituximab appears safe and modestly effective in a variety of immune‐mediated hematologic diseases, including autoimmune hemolytic anemia, chronic immune thrombocytopenia, Evans syndrome, pure red cell aplasia, mixed type II cryoglobulinemia, cold agglutinin disease, and Waldenström's macroglobulinemia. However, as most of the published literature consists of case reports and small case series, international collaboration is essential in order to better define the efficacy and safety of this agent in children and adults with hematologic diseases. Am. J. Hematol. 77:303–310, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Morbidity and mortality of deep sedation in outpatient bone marrow biopsy
Authors: Burkle Christopher M. , Harrison Barry A. , Koenig Lisa F. , Decker Paul A. , Warner David O. , Gastineau Dennis A.
Published: October 2004

Deep sedation is being provided at an increasing rate for patients undergoing bone marrow biopsy and aspiration (BMBA). The aim of this study was to establish the safety of deep sedation used for adults undergoing BMBA. A nonrandomized database analysis and retrospective review of patient records from January 1997 to December 2000 was performed; 5,811 patients were identified as having undergone their first outpatient BMBA. Outcome measures included 30‐day mortality and same‐day hospital admission; surrogate measures included need for a surgical procedure or receipt of red blood cells within the 48 hr following the BMBA. Patients who received intravenously administered midazolam, fentanyl, and propofol for maintenance of deep sedation plus infiltration of a local anesthetic (n = 2,604; 45%) comprised the deep sedation group; those who received infiltration of a local anesthetic but no intravenous sedation or analgesia (n = 3,207; 55%) comprised the local anesthesia group. Patients in the deep sedation group compared to those in the local anesthesia group were less likely to die within 30 days (0.69% vs. 1.34%, P = 0.018) and less likely to receive red blood cells (1.27% vs. 2.25%, P = 0.006). No other differences between the groups were found. Although the study was retrospective and nonrandomized, the results suggest that the use of deep sedation for outpatient BMBA is as safe as using local anesthesia. Am. J. Hematol. 77:250–256, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Serum ionized magnesium levels and ionized calcium‐to‐magnesium ratios in adult patients with sickle cell anemia
Authors: Zehtabchi Shahriar , Sinert Richard , Rinnert Stephan , Chang Betty , Heinis Christian , Altura Rachel A. , Altura Bella T. , Altura Burton M.
Published: October 2004

Low levels of total magnesium in sickle cell erythrocytes have been linked to increased sickling due to cell dehydration. We tested the null hypothesis that adult sickle cell anemia (SCA) patients have the same serum level of ionized Mg (Mg2+) and Ca2+/Mg2+ ratio as healthy African Americans (AA) and healthy Caucasians (CAUC). We measured serum Mg2+ and ionized calcium (Ca2+) with ion‐selective electrodes and calculated the serum Ca2+/Mg2+ ratios in patients with SCA and control groups (AA and CAUC). Seventy‐four SCA patients and 61 controls were compared. SCA patients had significantly (P < 0.001) lower levels of serum Mg2+ (0.52 ± 0.05) compared to healthy AA (0.57 ± 0.04) and CAUC (0.62 ± 0.03). Eighty‐six percent of the adult SCA patients had serum Mg2+ levels below the mean for the AA group, and 96% of SCA patients were above the AA group's mean serum Ca2+/Mg2+. Of the SCA patients studied, 25.6% (95% CI, 16.2–37.2%) had serum Mg2+ levels below the racially adjusted lower limit of normal and 50% (95% CI, 38.1–61.9%) were above the upper limit of serum Ca2+/Mg2+ for AA controls. By measuring serum Mg2+ and Ca2+, we were able to define a subset of SCA patients with hypomagnesemia and elevated Ca2+/Mg2+ ratios, who may benefit from magnesium supplementation. Am. J. Hematol. 77:215–222, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Rapid irreversible encephalopathy associated with anti‐D immune globulin treatment for idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura
Authors: Christopher Kenneth , Horkan Clare , Barb Ilie T. , Arbelaez Christian , Hodgdon Travis A. , Yodice Paul C.
Published: October 2004

Intravenous Rho (D) immune globulin (IV RhIG, WinRho SDF) has been shown to be a safe treatment for idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP). Common side effects of IV RhIG include mild hemolysis, febrile reaction, and headache. Significant hemolysis with renal impairment following IV RhIG has been reported. We report a case of irreversible encephalopathy 48 hr following an infusion of IV RhIG for treatment of ITP. Am. J. Hematol. 77:299–302, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Immature granulocyte fraction in the peripheral blood is a practical indicator for mobilization of CD34+ cells
Authors: Endo‐Matsubara Mari , Ogawa Seishi , Sasaki Ko , Takahashi Tsuyoshi , Chiba Shigeru , Hirai Hisamaru
Published: October 2004

We propose a simple parameter that improves prediction of the number of CD34+ cells in blood cells collected by apheresis for autologous peripheral blood stem cell (PBSC) transplantation following administration of granulocyte colony‐stimulating factor. The percentage of immature granulocytes including myeloblasts, promyelocytes, myelocytes, and metamyelocytes (LSI for left‐shift index) immediately prior to the start of each apheresis correlated with the number of CD34+ cells in PBSC collections (r = 0.79, P < 0.0001, Y = 0.227X − 0.99, R2 = 0.623) much better than did the white blood cell count (r = 0.07), currently the most commonly used predictor in deciding the initiation of apheresis. We then used receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves to determine a cutoff point for LSI to prevent unnecessary apheresis. At LSI > 7.5, sensitivity and specificity of cutoff points in the probability of obtaining >1.0 × 106 CD34+ cells/kg BW were 93.3% and 94.3% (95% CI, 91.4–100.0%), respectively. When LSI reaches 15.25, nearly 100% of apheresis will attain the target CD34+ cell dose. These findings indicate that LSI is a useful and simple method for predicting the yield of CD34+ cells before the start of PBSC collection and avoiding unnecessary apheresis. Am. J. Hematol. 77:223–228, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Management of patients with systemic mastocytosis: Review of M. D. Anderson Cancer Center experience
Authors: Hennessy Bryan , Giles Francis , Cortes Jorge , O'Brien Susan , Ferrajoli Alessandra , Ossa Gladys , Garcia‐Manero Guillermo , Faderl Stefan , Kantarjian Hagop , Verstovsek Srdan
Published: October 2004

Mastocytosis is characterized by mast cell proliferation that may be limited to the skin (cutaneous mastocytosis) or may involve one or more extracutaneous organs, e.g., the bone marrow (systemic mastocytosis; SM). This study objective is to evaluate the features and outcome of patients referred to M. D. Anderson Cancer Center (MDACC) with SM. A search of the MDACC database from 1944 to 2002 was conducted for patients with SM and review of their clinical charts. Eighteen patients with mastocytosis were identified in the MDACC database; 15 (11 males and 4 females) had SM and available information. Two had associated myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), and one had acute myeloid leukemia (AML). The median age was 58 years (range 31–80). Nine patients were treated with subcutaneous interferon‐alpha, and only 1 experienced temporary control of the disease. Three of these patients were then treated with imatinib mesylate: transient improvement was noted in two patients. One patient underwent stem cell transplantation as first therapy and achieved complete remission; this patient had associated MDS and is now in complete remission for 8 years. The patient with associated AML was treated with high‐dose cytarabine and idarubicin; he has been in complete remission for 16 months. One patient was treated with induction chemotherapy consisting of high‐dose cytarabine and 2CDA but expired due to sepsis. Three patients received symptomatic therapy only; these were the only 3 patients who presented with normal blood counts. SM is rare and has no effective standard of care. Collaboration among academic centers to accrue enough patients to evaluate novel therapeutic strategies is needed. Am. J. Hematol. 77:209–214, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Catch‐up reproductive maturation in rural Tonga girls, Zambia?
Authors: Gillett‐Netting Rhonda , Meloy Melissa , Campbell Benjamin C.
Published: October 2004

To compare the timing of reproductive maturation among urban and rural Tonga girls in Zambia, anthropometric measures and Tanner stages of breast development were obtained. Subjects were 774 (282 rural, 492 urban) girls ages 6–18. Results indicate that rural girls are shorter and have smaller triceps and subscapular skinfolds than their urban counterparts. Median age at menarche for the entire sample, as estimated by probit analysis, was 14.8 years (95% CL = 14.34–15.40). Onset of breast development among urban girls was significantly younger than for the rural girls: 11.47 (95% CL 11.22–11.71) years vs. 13.15 (95% CL 12.40–14.15) years. In contrast, the two groups did not differ in timing of pubertal completion as assessed by median age for Tanner Breast Stage 5: 17.01 (95% CL 16.30–18.33) vs. 16.96 (95% CL 16.37–17.56) years. Predictors of pubertal onset, based on multivariate logistic regression, included dental maturation, height, and triceps skinfold. Triceps skinfold was the only significant predictor of pubertal completion. These results suggest that rural girls progress through puberty more rapidly than the urban girls despite their later start. This finding of maturational catch‐up contrasts with earlier urban/rural comparisons of girls as well as previous results among Gwembe boys, for which later pubertal onset is associated with longer duration of pubertal maturation. While the mechanism remains unclear, biocultural explanations suggest preferential feeding during adolescence as a source for rural girl's maturational catch‐up. Am. J. Hum. Biol. 16:658–669, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Sulfatases: Structure, Mechanism, Biological Activity, Inhibition, and Synthetic Utility
Authors: Hanson Sarah R. , Best Michael D. , Wong Chi‐Huey
Published: October 2004

Sulfatases, which cleave sulfate esters in biological systems, play a key role in regulating the sulfation states that determine the function of many physiological molecules. Sulfatase substrates range from small cytosolic steroids, such as estrogen sulfate, to complex cell‐surface carbohydrates, such as the glycosaminoglycans. The transformation of these molecules has been linked with important cellular functions, including hormone regulation, cellular degradation, and modulation of signaling pathways. Sulfatases have also been implicated in the onset of various pathophysiological conditions, including hormone‐dependent cancers, lysosomal storage disorders, developmental abnormalities, and bacterial pathogenesis. These findings have increased interest in sulfatases and in targeting them for therapeutic endeavors. Although numerous sulfatases have been identified, the wide scope of their biological activity is only beginning to emerge. Herein, accounts of the diversity and growing biological relevance of sulfatases are provided along with an overview of the current understanding of sulfatase structure, mechanism, and inhibition.
Dynamic imaging of cell, extracellular matrix, and tissue movements during avian vertebral axis patterning
Authors: Filla Michael B. , Czirók András , Zamir Evan A. , Little Charles D. , Cheuvront Tracey J. , Rongish Brenda J.
Published: October 2004

Vertebrate axis patterning depends on cell and extracellular matrix (ECM) repositioning and proper cell‐ECM interactions. However, there are few in vivo data addressing how large‐scale tissue deformations are coordinated with the motion of local cell ensembles or the displacement of ECM constituents. Combining the methods of dynamic imaging and experimental biology allows both cell and ECM fate‐mapping to be correlated with ongoing tissue deformations. These fate‐mapping studies suggest that the axial ECM components “move” both as a composite meshwork and as autonomous particles, depending on the length scale being examined. Cells are also part of this composite, and subject to passive displacements resulting from tissue deformations. However, in contrast to the ECM, cells are self‐propelled. The net result of cell and ECM displacements, along with proper ECM‐cell adhesion, is the assembly of new tissue architecture. Data herein show that disruption of normal cell‐ECM interactions during axis formation results in developmental abnormalities and a disorganization of the ECM. Our goal in characterizing the global displacement patterns of axial cells and ECM is to provide critical information regarding existing strain fields in the segmental plate and paraxial mesoderm. Deducing the mechanical influences on cell behavior is critical, if we are to understand vertebral axis patterning. Supplementary material for this article is available online at http://www.mrw.interscience.wiley.com/suppmat/1542‐975X/suppmat/72/v72.266.html. Birth Defects Research (Part C) 72:267–276, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Comparative transcriptional profiling of two human embryonic stem cell lines
Authors: Rao Raj R. , Calhoun John D. , Qin Xiaoting , Rekaya Romdhane , Clark Jason K. , Stice Steven L.
Published: October 2004

Human embryonic stem cells (ESCs) have generated enormous interest due to their ability to self‐renew and produce many different cell types. In conjunction with microarray technology, human ESCs provide a powerful tool for employing a systems‐based approach to deciphering the molecular mechanisms that control pluripotency and early development. Recent work has focused on defining “stemness” and pluripotency based on different experimental and analytical approaches in both mouse and human ESCs. Using a mixed linear model statistical approach, we report a stringent direct comparison between data sets obtained from two human ESCs (BG01 and H1) in order to obtain a list of genes that are enriched in ESCs. In addition, we used another pluripotent population derived from BG01 ESCs to obtain a list of genes that we consider important to the maintenance of pluripotency. A total of 133 genes overlapped between the three pluripotent populations. A majority of the 133 genes were classified under the key functional categories of cell‐cycle regulation, signaling, and regulation of transcription. Key genes expressed were Oct4, Sox2, LeftyA, and Fgf2. Also found to be enriched in all three populations is FLJ10713, a gene encoding a hypothetical protein of unknown function that has been shown in earlier studies to possess a homolog in mouse ESCs and also to cluster tightly with Oct4 in human ESCs. Although there were many genes unique to each pluripotent population, they shared similarities based on functional ontologies that define pluripotency. The significance of our studies underscores the need for direct comparison of stem cell populations that share biological similarities using uniform stringent analytical approaches, in order to better define pluripotency. Our findings have important implications for the maintenance of pluripotency and in developing directed differentiation strategies for various regenerative applications. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
A prospective evaluation of two radiotherapy schedules with 10 versus 20 fractions for the treatment of metastatic spinal cord compression
Authors: Rades Dirk , Fehlauer Fabian , Stalpers Lukas J. A. , Wildfang Ingeborg , Zschenker Oliver , Schild Steven E. , Schmoll Hans J. , Karstens Johann H. , Alberti Winfried
Published: October 2004

BACKGROUND

The optimal treatment of patients with metastatic spinal cord compression (MSCC) is still being debated. The current observational multicenter study, performed prospectively by the authors, evaluated two radiotherapy (RT) schedules and prognostic factors with respect to functional outcome

METHODS

In the current study, 214 patients with MSCC were irradiated between April 2000 and September 2003 with 30 gray (Gy) per 10 fractions per 2 weeks (n = 110) or with 40 Gy per 20 fractions per 4 weeks (n = 104). Motor function and ambulatory status were evaluated before RT and until 6 months after RT. The following potential prognostic factors were investigated: RT schedule, performance status, age, number of irradiated vertebrae, type of primary tumor, pretreatment ambulatory status, and length of time developing motor deficits before RT.

RESULTS

Both groups were balanced for patient characteristics and potential prognostic factors. Motor function improved in 43% of patients after 30 Gy and in 41% of patients after 40 Gy (P = 0.799). Posttreatment ambulatory rates were 60% and 64% (P = 0.708), respectively. A multivariate analysis demonstrated that a slower progression of motor deficits before RT (P < 0.001), a favorable histology of the primary tumor (P < 0.001), and being ambulatory before RT (P = 0.035) were associated with a better functional outcome. RT schedule (P = 0.269) and other variables had no significant impact. Acute toxicity was mild, and late toxicity was not observed during the period of follow‐up. Follow‐up was 12 (6–28) months in patients surviving ≥ 6 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Thirty gray per 10 fractions was preferable to 40 Gy per 20 fractions, because it was associated with similar outcome, less treatment time, and lower costs. The type of tumor, pretreatment ambulatory status, and length of time developing motor deficits before RT were relevant prognostic factors and should be considered in future studies. Cancer 2004. © 2004 American Cancer Society.
Initial immunoglobulin M ‘flare’ after rituximab therapy in patients diagnosed with Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia
Authors: Ghobrial Irene M. , Fonseca Rafael , Greipp Philip R. , Blood Emily , Rue Montserrat , Vesole David H. , Gertz Morie A.
Published: October 2004

BACKGROUND

The goal of the current study was to characterize the initial upsurge in immunoglobulin M (IgM) levels after treatment with rituximab in patients with Waldenstrom macroglobulinemia (WM).

METHODS

As part of a Phase II Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group study, 72 patients were treated with rituximab (375 mg/m2 weekly for 4 weeks) between April 2000 and January 2002. IgM levels in these patients were measured at five separate time points so that any temporal changes that occurred could be characterized.

RESULTS

Of the 54 patients for whom the relevant IgM measurements were available, 29 (54%) experienced an increase in IgM levels between baseline and the first scheduled postbaseline time point. At 2 months, 13 of 22 evaluable patients (59%) continued to have elevated IgM levels, and at 4 months, elevated IgM levels persisted in 4 of 15 evaluable patients (27%). Overall, a nonlinear trend characterized by an initial increase in IgM levels followed by a decrease in these levels was observed (P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Treating physicians should be aware that an IgM ‘flare’ may occur in up to 54% of patients treated with rituximab; however, most of these patients experience a decrease in IgM levels within 4 months after the initiation of therapy. Therefore, patients should not be discouraged from continuing to receive this potentially effective therapeutic agent, as responses to rituximab may develop slowly. Longer follow‐up will reveal whether patients who experience an upsurge in IgM levels have poorer overall survival or shorter times to progression compared with patients who do not experience this IgM flare. Factors predicting an initial increase in IgM levels could not be identified. Cancer 2004. © 2004 American Cancer Society.
Long‐term survival estimates for imatinib versus interferon‐α plus low‐dose cytarabine for patients with newly diagnosed chronic‐phase chronic myeloid leukemia
Authors: Anstrom Kevin J. , Reed Shelby D. , Allen Andrew S. , Glendenning G. Alastair , Schulman Kevin A.
Published: October 2004

BACKGROUND

The authors estimated survival among patients with chronic myeloid leukemia for a cost‐effectiveness analysis of imatinib versus interferon‐α plus low‐dose cytarabine (IFN+LDAC).

METHODS

Two‐year survival and cytogenetic response were determined using data from 553 patients who received first‐line imatinib in the International Randomized Interferon versus ST571 Study (IRIS). Long‐term survival was modeled on complete cytogenetic response (CCyR) after 2 years. Long‐term survival for patients with a CCyR was modeled using data from a cohort study of 317 patients with CCyRs. Long‐term survival for patients without a CCyR was modeled using data from a trial of 275 patients who were treated with IFN+LDAC. Computation of lifetime survival estimates for imatinib assumed a proportional hazards relation between survival for an age‐matched and gender‐matched cohort and survival for patients with and without a CCyR.

RESULTS

For IRIS patients receiving imatinib, the estimated survival was 95.8% and the CCyR rate was 73.8%. The average residual life expectancy was estimated to be 16.71 years for CCyR patients and 5.78 years for non‐CCyR patients. The estimated life expectancy after treatment with imatinib was 15.30 years, compared with 9.07 years for patients who were treated with IFN+LDAC in previous studies.

CONCLUSIONS

Assuming the relation between CCyR and survival with interferon‐α holds for imatinib, higher CCyR rates with imatinib therapy will result in an estimated 6.23 life‐years gained compared with treatment with IFN+LDAC. Cancer 2004. © 2004 American Cancer Society.
Cost‐effectiveness of imatinib versus interferon‐α plus low‐dose cytarabine for patients with newly diagnosed chronic‐phase chronic myeloid leukemia
Authors: Reed Shelby D. , Anstrom Kevin J. , Ludmer Jennifer A. , Glendenning G. Alastair , Schulman Kevin A.
Published: October 2004

BACKGROUND

Despite a lack of long‐term data, imatinib has become standard therapy for patients with newly diagnosed chronic‐phase chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) who are not candidates for allogeneic stem cell transplantation. In the current study, the authors estimated the incremental cost‐effectiveness of imatinib versus interferon‐α plus low‐dose cytarabine (IFN+LDAC) as first‐line therapy for these patients.

METHODS

Data from the International Randomized Interferon versus STI571 Study and the literature were used to estimate lifetime costs, survival, and quality‐adjusted survival. Survival estimates were based on published survival curves for patients who achieved and those who did not achieve a complete cytogenetic response after treatment with interferon‐α.

RESULTS

The mean estimated survival with first‐line imatinib therapy was 15.30 years, compared with 9.07 years with IFN+LDAC. Undiscounted lifetime costs were approximately $424,600 with imatinib and $182,800 with IFN+LDAC. Using a 3% discount rate, the incremental survival gain with imatinib was 3.93 life‐years and 3.89 quality‐adjusted life‐years (QALYs). Incremental discounted lifetime costs were found to be $168,100 higher with imatinib, resulting in incremental cost‐effectiveness ratios of $43,100 per life‐year saved (95% confidence interval [95% CI], $37,600–51,100) and $43,300 per QALY (95% CI, $38,300–49,100).

CONCLUSIONS

The results of the current study demonstrate that compared with IFN+LDAC, imatinib is a cost‐effective first‐line therapy in patients with newly diagnosed chronic‐phase CML. Cancer 2004. © 2004 American Cancer Society.
Isolation and Molecular Structure of a Monomeric, Tris[peroxotitanium(IV)]‐Substituted α‐Dawson Polyoxometalate Derived from the Tetrameric Anhydride Form Composed of Four Tris[titanium(IV)]‐Substituted α‐Dawson Substructures and Four Bridging Titanium(IV) Octahedral Groups
Authors: Sakai Yoshitaka , Kitakoga Yuh , Hayashi Kunihiko , Yoza Kenji , Nomiya Kenji
Published: October 2004

The isolation and structural characterisation of a novel tris[peroxotitanium(IV)]‐substituted α‐Dawson polyoxometalate (POM), [α‐1,2,3‐P2W15(TiO2)3O56(OH)3]9− (1a), containing side‐on coordination (i.e. η2‐coordination) of the peroxo group to the titanium(IV) atom are described. A water‐soluble, completely inorganic compound of the monomeric POM Na9[α‐1,2,3‐P2W15(TiO2)3O56(OH)3]·16H2O (1), obtained as analytically pure, homogeneous orange crystals, was obtained from a reaction in aqueous solution of an excess of 30% aqueous hydrogen peroxide with {[α‐1,2,3‐P2W15Ti3O59(OH)3]4[μ3‐Ti(OH)3]4Cl}33− (2a). The latter has been recently shown to be a giant ”tetrapod”‐shaped, tetrameric anhydride formed from the tris[titanium(IV)]‐substituted Dawson substructures with four bridging Ti octahedral groups. Compound 1 could not be obtained from the reaction with another giant tetrapod POM, {[α‐1,2,3‐P2W15Ti3O57.5(OH)3]4Cl}25− (3a), which does not contain the bridging octahedral Ti groups. The molecular structure of 1a was successfully determined by a single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction study and was shown to be a monomeric α‐Dawson POM derived from the tris[peroxotitanium(IV)] species. Bond valence sum (BVS) calculations suggest that the μ2‐oxo sites of the three Ti−O−Ti bridges in the Ti3 cap of the Dawson unit are protonated. Characterisation of 1 was also accomplished by complete elemental analysis, TG/DTA, FTIR and solution (31P and 183W) NMR spectroscopy. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2004)
Fabrication and Characterization of DNA/QPVP‐Os Redox‐Active Multilayer Film
Authors: Liu Jianyun , Jin Yongdong , Wu Aiguo , Li Zhuang , Dong Shaojun
Published: October 2004

Calf thymus DNA was immobilized on functionalized glassy carbon, gold and quartz substrates, respectively, by the layer‐by‐layer (LBL) assembly method with a polycation QPVP‐Os, a quaternized poly(4‐vinylpyridine) partially complexed with osmium bis(2,2′‐bipyridine) as counterions. UV‐visible absorption and surface plasmon resonance spectroscopy (SPR) showed that the resulting film was uniform with the average thickness 3.4 nm for one bilayer. Cyclic voltammetry (CV) showed that the total surface coverage of the polycations increases as each QPVP‐Os/DNA bilayer added to the electrode surface, but the surface formal potential of Os‐centered redox reaction shifts negatively, which is mainly attributed to the intercalation of redox‐active complex to DNA chain. The electron transfer kinetics of electroactive QPVP‐Os in the multilayer film was investigated by electrochemical impedance experiment for the first time. The permeability of Fe(CN)$\rm{ {_{6}^{3-}}}$ in the solution into the multilayer film depends on the number of bilayers in the film. It is worth noting that when the multilayer film is up to 4 bilayers, the CV curves of the multilayer films display the typical characteristic of a microelectrode array. The nanoporous structure of the multilayer film was further confirmed by the surface morphology analysis using atomic force microscopy (AFM).
Oxygen Dependence in a Dual‐Phase Electrochemical Biosensing System
Authors: Zhang Shanqing , Zhao Huijun , John Richard
Published: October 2004

Oxygen dependence of a tyrosinase‐based electrochemical biosensor for determination of phenol in aqueous and organic media was systematically investigated. The result demonstrated that the enzymatic coupling reaction rate of tyrosinase (deoxy form) and O2 to regenerate tyrosinase (oxy form) is a kinetically fast reaction, and the significant change of O2 concentration in aqueous solution did not affect the coupling reaction. The further increase of O2 concentration did not increase the overall oxidation reaction rate of the substrate at low substrate concentration (e.g.,<10 μM phenol) when O2 concentration was greater than 8.9 ppm. The oxygen dependence was observed in the case of high substrate concentration due to insufficient amount of O2 available for the regeneration of tyrosinase. In other words, the upper linear range is oxygen dependent for tyrosinase biosensors. The phenol biosensors employing microelectrodes had wider upper linear ranges than macroelectrodes in both aqueous and organic phase, which can be explained by the oxygen dependence.
A New Calibration Free pH‐Probe for In Situ Measurements of Soil pH
Authors: Kahlert Heike , Steinhardt Tim , Behnert Jürgen , Scholz Fritz
Published: October 2004

A new pH‐probe was developed for in situ determination of soil pH. It consists of a stainless steel tube with a plastic inset containing the indicator electrode, the reference electrode and a temperature sensor at the end of the tube. The indicator electrode is a quinhydrone composite electrode that does not need to be calibrated, because it acquires almost the theoretical predicted potential and has a constant formal potential and slope under all fabrication conditions. The pH‐probe has a low standard deviation (±4 mV or 0.07 pH units). The response time is short (5 s). To characterize its function the soil pH‐probe was used to analyse pond and arable soil samples. The results were compared with those obtained with a conventional combined glass electrode. To evaluate the results, measurements were performed (i) in natural wet soil samples (in situ conditions), (ii) after drying and moistening the soil samples (moistened samples) and (iii) after drying the soil samples and mixing with bidistilled water (soil solutions; generally accepted method in laboratories). The minimum water content required to obtain stable potentials in soil samples was 10%. The influence of S2−, NO$\rm{ {_{3}^{-}}}$ and Fe3+ as naturally available reducing and oxidising agents on the potential response of the pH‐probe was investigated. All the obtained results demonstrate that the developed pH‐probe is a powerful tool to measure the pH of a soil sample under in situ conditions without a calibration step.
Drug‐human serum albumin binding studied by capillary electrophoresis with electrochemiluminescence detection
Authors: Zhao Xiaocui , You Tianyan , Liu Jifeng , Sun Xiuhua , Yan Jilin , Yang Xiurong , Wang Erkang
Published: October 2004

A new technique for investigating drug‐protein binding was developed employing capillary electrophoresis (CE) coupled with tris(2,2'‐bipyridyl) ruthenium(II) [Ru(bpy)32+] electrochemiluminescence (ECL) (CE‐ECL) detection after equilibrium dialysis. Three basic drugs, namely pridinol, procyclidine and its analogue trihexyphenidyl, were successfully separated by capillary zone electrophoresis with end‐column Ru(bpy)32+ ECL detection. The relative drug binding to human serum albumin (HSA) for each single drug as well as for the three drugs binding simultaneously was calculated. It was found that the three antiparkinsonian drugs compete for the same binding site on HSA. This work demonstrated that Ru(bpy)32+ CE‐ECL can be a suitable technique for studying drug‐protein binding.
Nonisotopic single‐strand conformation polymorphism analysis of sequence variability in ribosomal DNA expansion segments within the genus Trichinella (Nematoda: Adenophorea)
Authors: Gasser Robin B. , Hu Min , Abs El‐Osta Youssef G. , Zarlenga Dante S. , Pozio Edoardo
Published: October 2004

A nonisotopic single‐strand conformation polymorphism (SSCP) approach was employed to ‘fingerprint’ sequence variability in the expansion segment 5 (ES5) of domain IV and the D3 domain of nuclear ribosomal DNA within and/or among isolates and individual muscle (first‐stage) larvae representing all currently recognized species/genotypes of Trichinella. In addition, phylogenetic analyses of the D3 sequence data set, employing three different tree‐building algorithms, examined the relationships among all of them. These analyses showed strong support that the encapsulated species T. spiralis and T. nelsoni formed a group to the exclusion of the other encapsulated species T. britovi and its related genotypes Trichinella T8 and T9 and T. murrelli, and T. nativa and Trichinella T6, and strong support that T. nativa and Trichinella T6 grouped together. Also, these eight encapsulated members grouped to the exclusion of the nonencapsulated species T. papuae and T. zimbabwensis and the three representatives of T. pseudospiralis investigated. The findings showed that nonencapsulated species constitute a complex group which is distinct from the encapsulated species and supported the current hypothesis that encapsulated Trichinella group external to the nonencapsulated forms, in accordance with independent biological and biochemical data sets.