bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Explaining Differences in Attitude Toward Adjuvant Chemotherapy Between Experienced and Inexperienced Breast Cancer Patients
Authors: Jansen S.J.T. , Otten W. , Baas-Thijssen M.C.M. , van de Velde C.J.H. , Nortier J.W.R. , Stiggelbout A.M.
Published: September 2005

Purpose

Previous studies have shown that patients who have experienced adjuvant chemotherapy (experienced patients) have a more favorable attitude towards chemotherapy than those who have not (inexperienced patients). However, not much is known about the reasons underlying this difference. According to the Theory of Planned Behavior, the attitude towards a particular behavior (eg, accepting chemotherapy) is based on beliefs about the likelihood of outcomes of the behavior and the evaluations of these outcomes. We used this theory to explore in what way the beliefs of experienced patients differed from those of inexperienced patients.

Patients and Methods

A cross-sectional survey was undertaken among 719 patients who had been treated for early-stage breast cancer between 1998 and 2003. Patients were asked, first, to indicate the likelihood of six positive and six negative outcomes of undergoing chemotherapy and, second, to give their evaluation of these outcomes.

Results

Four hundred forty-six women filled in the questionnaire (response rate, 62%). As hypothesized, experienced patients (ie, patients who had been treated with adjuvant chemotherapy as part of their primary treatment plan) had a more positive attitude towards chemotherapy. Experienced patients provided higher likelihood estimates of treatment advantages, such as life prolongation. In addition, they evaluated the positive outcomes of chemotherapy more favorably. With regard to the negative outcomes of chemotherapy, few differences were observed between treatment groups.

Conclusion

Experienced patients have more confidence in the positive outcomes of chemotherapy than inexperienced patients. This might be the result of a cognitive mechanism to justify the way in which patients were treated.
Raf: A Strategic Target for Therapeutic Development Against Cancer
Authors: Beeram Muralidhar , Patnaik Amita , Rowinsky Eric K.
Published: September 2005

The mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway plays a critical role in transmitting proliferative signals generated by cell surface receptors and cytoplasmic signaling elements to the nucleus. Several important signaling elements of the MAPK pathway, particularly Ras and Raf, are encoded by oncogenes, and as such, their structures and functions can be modified, rendering them constitutively active. Because the MAPK pathway is dysregulated in a notable proportion of human malignancies, many of its aberrant and critical components represent strategic targets for therapeutic development against cancer. Raf, which is an essential serine/threonine kinase constituent of the MAPK pathway and a downstream effector of the central signal transduction mediator Ras, is activated in a wide range of human malignancies by aberrant signaling upstream of the protein (eg, growth factor receptors and mutant Ras) and activating mutations of the protein itself, both of which confer a proliferative advantage. Three isoforms of Raf have been identified, and therapeutics targeting Raf, including small-molecule inhibitors and antisense oligodeoxyribonucleotides (ASON), are undergoing clinical evaluation. The outcomes of these investigations may have far-reaching implications in the management of many types of human cancer. This review outlines the structure and diverse functions of Raf, the rationale for targeting Raf as a therapeutic strategy against cancer, and the present status of various therapeutic approaches including ASONs and small molecules, particularly sorafenib (BAY 43-9006).
Low-Dose Chemotherapy for Epstein-Barr Virus–Positive Post-Transplantation Lymphoproliferative Disease in Children After Solid Organ Transplantation
Authors: Gross Thomas G. , Bucuvalas John C. , Park Julie R. , Greiner Timothy C. , Hinrich Steven H. , Kaufman Stuart S. , Langnas Alan N. , McDonald Ruth A. , Ryckman Frederick C. , Shaw Byers W. , Sudan Debra L. , Lynch James C.
Published: September 2005

Purpose

To evaluate the efficacy of a low-dose chemotherapy regimen in children with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) –positive, post-transplantation lymphoproliferative disease (PTLD) after organ transplantation who have experienced failure with front-line therapy for PTLD.

Patients and Methods

Eligible patients received cyclophosphamide (600 mg/m2 intravenous for 1 day) and prednisone (2 mg/kg orally for 5 days) every 3 weeks for six cycles.

Results

Thirty-six patients treated on study were assessable for analyses. Front-line therapies for PTLD before study entry included immune suppression reduction or withdrawal (n = 36), antiviral therapy (n = 33), surgical resection (n = 8), rituximab (n = 2), and interferon alfa (n = 1). Reasons for failure of front-line therapy included progressive disease (PD; n = 33) and persistent disease with concurrent allograft rejection (n = 3). Thirty patients (83%) had stage III to IV disease, 92% had extranodal disease, and 75% had ≥ three sites of disease. The overall response rate was 83% (75% complete response + 8% partial response). The relapse rate was 19%, with only one of five relapsed patients alive and disease-free. Four patients presented with fulminant, disseminated PTLD; only one of these four patients achieved a response, and all four died of PD. Two patients died of treatment-related toxicity. Three patients (8%) experienced allograft loss, but two of the three patients are alive and disease-free after a second transplantation. The 2-year overall, relapse-free, and failure-free (without PTLD and with functioning original allograft) survival rates were 73%, 69%, and 67%, respectively.

Conclusion

This low-dose chemotherapy regimen is effective for children with EBV-positive, nonfulminant PTLD who have experienced treatment failure with front-line therapy, and this study represents the largest series of PTLD patients treated prospectively with a uniform chemotherapy regimen.
Risk-Adapted Androgen Deprivation and Escalated Three-Dimensional Conformal Radiotherapy for Prostate Cancer: Does Radiation Dose Influence Outcome of Patients Treated With Adjuvant Androgen Deprivation? A GICOR Study
Authors: Zapatero Almudena , Valcárcel Francisco , Calvo Felipe A. , Algás Rosa , Béjar Amelia , Maldonado Javier , Villá Salvador
Published: September 2005

Purpose

Multicenter study conducted to determine the impact on biochemical control and survival of risk-adapted androgen deprivation (AD) combined with high-dose three-dimensional conformal radiotherapy (3DCRT) for prostate cancer. Results of biochemical control are reported.

Patients and Methods

Between October 1999 and October 2001, 416 eligible patients with prostate cancer were assigned to one of three treatment groups according to their risk factors: 181 low-risk patients were treated with 3DCRT alone; 75 intermediate-risk patients were allocated to receive neoadjuvant AD (NAD) 4-6 months before and during 3DCRT; and 160 high-risk patients received NAD and adjuvant AD (AAD) 2 years after 3DCRT. Stratification was performed for treatment/risk group and total radiation dose.

Results

After a median follow-up of 36 months (range, 18 to 63 months), the actuarial biochemical disease-free survival (bDFS) at 5 years for all patients was 74%. The corresponding figures for low-risk, intermediate-risk, and high-risk disease were 80%, 73%, and 79%, respectively (P = .847). Univariate analysis showed that higher radiation dose was the only significant factor associated with bDFS for all patients (P = .0004). When stratified for treatment group, this benefit was evident for low-risk patients (P = .009) and, more interestingly, for high-risk patients treated with AAD. The 5-year bDFS for high-risk patients treated with AAD was 63% for radiation doses less than 72 Gy and 84% for those ≥ 72 Gy (P = .003).

Conclusion

The results of combined AAD plus high-dose 3DCRT are encouraging. To our knowledge, this is the first study showing an additional benefit of high-dose 3DCRT when combined with long-term AD for unfavorable disease.
Fatigue in Long-Term Hodgkin's Disease Survivors: A Follow-Up Study
Authors: Hjermstad Marianne J. , Fosså Sophie D. , Oldervoll Line , Holte Harald , Jacobsen Anne B. , Loge Jon H.
Published: September 2005

Purpose

To describe total fatigue (TF) and chronic fatigue (CF) in 476 long-term Hodgkin's disease survivors (HDSs). The development in CF over time was explored in 280 of the patients who had also been assessed 8 years earlier.

Patients and Methods

In 2003, the Fatigue Questionnaire was mailed to 610 successfully treated HDSs at the Norwegian Radium Hospital from 1971 to 1997. Mean TF scores and occurrence of CF were compared with general population (GP) values.

Results

Four hundred seventy-six complete forms (81%) were received (median age, 46 years; 56% males, median follow-up time, 195 months). There was a positive association between age and TF (P < .05), whereas presence of B symptoms at diagnosis and treatment before 1980 were associated with CF. Mean TF scores were elevated in HDSs compared with the GP (mean TF score, 14.6; 95% CI, 14.1 to 15.7 v 12.1; 95% CI, 11.9 to 12.3, respectively; P < .001), as was the proportion of persons with CF (30% v 11%, respectively; odds ratio = 3.6; P < .001). The 70 patients with CF 8 years earlier still reported higher TF at follow-up than the 210 patients without CF at the previous assessment (mean TF score, 17.0; 95% CI, 15.6 to 18.3 v 13.1; 95% CI, 12.9 to 14.1, respectively; P < .001). Significantly more patients with persisting CF had B symptoms at diagnosis compared with patients who had recovered (P = .05). No significant association with treatment modality and intensity was found.

Conclusion

Fatigue remains a major complaint in HDSs several years after treatment, but the association between treatment and fatigue still remains unclear. Many HDSs may recover from CF, particularly patients without B symptoms at diagnosis.
Phase I Trial of Tipifarnib in Patients With Recurrent Malignant Glioma Taking Enzyme-Inducing Antiepileptic Drugs: A North American Brain Tumor Consortium Study
Authors: Cloughesy Timothy F. , Kuhn John , Robins H. Ian , Abrey Lauren , Wen Patrick , Fink Karen , Lieberman Frank S. , Mehta Minesh , Chang Susan , Yung Alfred , DeAngelis Lisa , Schiff David , Junck Larry , Groves Morris , Paquette Steve , Wright John , Lamborn Kathleen , Sebti Said M. , Prados Michael
Published: September 2005

Purpose

To determine the maximum-tolerated dose (MTD), toxicities, and clinical effect of tipifarnib, a farnesyltransferase (FTase) inhibitor, in patients with recurrent malignant glioma taking enzyme-inducing antiepileptic drugs (EIAEDs). This study compares the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of tipifarnib at MTD in patients on and off EIAEDs.

Patients and Methods

Recurrent malignant glioma patients were treated with tipifarnib using an interpatient dose-escalation scheme. Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics were assessed.

Results

Twenty-three assessable patients taking EIAEDs received tipifarnib in escalating doses from 300 to 700 mg bid for 21 of 28 days. The dose-limiting toxicity was rash, and the MTD was 600 mg bid. There were significant differences in pharmacokinetic parameters at 300 mg bid between patients on and not on EIAEDs. When patients on EIAEDs and not on EIAEDs were treated at MTD (600 and 300 mg bid, respectively), the area under the plasma concentration–time curve (AUC)0-12 hours was approximately two-fold lower in patients on EIAEDs. Farnesyltransferase inhibition was noted at all tipifarnib dose levels, as measured in peripheral-blood mononuclear cells (PBMC).

Conclusion

Toxicities and pharmacokinetics differ significantly when comparing patients on or off EIAEDs. EIAEDs significantly decreased the maximum concentration, AUC0-12 hours, and predose trough concentrations of tipifarnib. Even in the presence of EIAEDs, the levels of tipifarnib were still sufficient to potently inhibit FTase activity in patient PBMCs. The relevance of these important findings to clinical activity will be determined in ongoing studies with larger numbers of patients.
Longitudinal Assessment of Hematopoietic Abnormalities After Autologous Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation for Lymphoma
Authors: Bhatia Ravi , Van Heijzen Khristine , Palmer Ann , Komiya Asako , Slovak Marilyn L. , Chang Karen L. , Fung Henry , Krishnan Amrita , Molina Arturo , Nademanee Auayporn , O'Donnell Margaret , Popplewell Leslie , Rodriguez Roberto , Forman Stephen J. , Bhatia Smita
Published: September 2005

Purpose

Autologous hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) is being increasingly used as an effective treatment strategy for patients with relapsed or refractory Hodgkin's lymphoma (HL) or non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) but is associated with therapy-related myelodysplasia and acute myeloid leukemia (t-MDS/AML) as a major cause of nonrelapse mortality. The phenomenon of hematopoietic reconstitution after autologous HCT and the role of proliferative stress in the pathogenesis of t-MDS/AML are poorly understood.

Patients and Methods

Using a prospective longitudinal study design, we evaluated the nature and timing of alterations in hematopoietic progenitors and telomere length after HCT in patients undergoing autologous HCT at City of Hope Cancer Center (Duarte, CA).

Results

A significant reduction in primitive and committed progenitors was observed before HCT compared with healthy controls. Further profound and persistent reduction in primitive progenitors but only transient reduction in committed progenitors were seen after HCT. Primitive progenitor frequency in pre-HCT marrow and peripheral-blood stem cells predicted for primitive progenitor recovery after HCT. Shortening of telomere length was observed in marrow cells early after HCT, with subsequent restoration to pre-HCT levels. Patients within this cohort who developed t-MDS/AML had reduced recovery of committed progenitors and poorer telomere recovery, possibly indicating a functional defect in primitive hematopoietic cells.

Conclusion

Our studies suggest that hematopoietic regeneration after HCT is associated with increased proliferation and differentiation of primitive progenitors. Increased proliferative stress on stem cells bearing genotoxic damage could contribute to the pathogenesis of t-MDS/AML. Extended follow-up of a larger number of patients is required to confirm whether alterations in progenitor and telomere recovery predict for increased risk of t-MDS/AML.
Late Effects of Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation Among 10-Year Adult Survivors Compared With Case-Matched Controls
Authors: Syrjala Karen L. , Langer Shelby L. , Abrams Janet R. , Storer Barry E. , Martin Paul J.
Published: September 2005

Purpose

To determine late effects of hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) on health problems and health-related quality of life for 10-year survivors.

Patients and Methods

Four hundred five adults consented to the study before HCT. Medical records and standardized self-report measures were maintained prospectively. After 10 years, 137 survivors and nontransplant controls, case-matched on age, sex, and race, completed self-report of medical problems, symptoms, and health-related quality of life.

Results

Survivors and controls had similar rates of hospitalization and most diseases, but survivors reported an average of 3.5 medical problems versus 1.7 for controls (P < .001). Survivors reported more musculoskeletal stiffness, cramps, weakness and joint swelling (P < .001), cataract surgery (P < .001), hepatitis C (P = .004), sexual problems for men (P = .01) and women (P < .001), restrictions in social function (P = .002), memory and attention concerns (P = .003), urinary frequency or leaking (P = .006), use of psychotropic medication (P = .009), and denial of life and health insurance (P < .001). Survivors and controls did not differ in self-reported rates of osteoporosis, hypothyroidism, employment, marital satisfaction, divorce, or psychological health.

Conclusion

Although indistinguishable in many respects, survivors had more medical needs than controls. Health problems were not focused on specific diseases or limited to survivors with readily identifiable risk factors. Musculoskeletal problems require both screening and research into etiologies and effective treatments. Osteoporosis and hypothyroidism may be underdiagnosed. Survivors require screening for sexual problems, urinary frequency, mood and need for antidepressants or benzodiazepines.
Randomized Phase IIB Trial of BLP25 Liposome Vaccine in Stage IIIB and IV Non–Small-Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Butts Charles , Murray Nevin , Maksymiuk Andrew , Goss Glenwood , Marshall Ernie , Soulières Denis , Cormier Yvon , Ellis Peter , Price Allan , Sawhney Ravinder , Davis Mary , Mansi Janine , Smith Colum , Vergidis Dimitrios , Ellis Paul , MacNeil Mary , Palmer Martin
Published: September 2005

Purpose

To evaluate the effect of BLP25 liposome vaccine (L-BLP25) on survival and toxicity in patients with stage IIIB and IV non–small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Secondary objectives included health-related quality of life (QOL) and immune responses elicited by L-BLP25.

Patients and Methods

Patients with an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status of 0 to 2 and stable or responding stage IIIB or IV NSCLC after any first-line chemotherapy were prestratified by stage and randomly assigned to either L-BLP25 plus best supportive care (BSC) or BSC alone. Patients in the L-BLP25 arm received a single intravenous dose of cyclophosphamide 300 mg/m2 followed by eight weekly subcutaneous immunizations with L-BLP25 (1,000 μg). Subsequent immunizations were administered at 6-week intervals.

Results

The survival results indicate a median survival time of 4.4 months longer for patients randomly assigned to the L-BLP25 arm (88 patients) compared with patients assigned to the BSC arm (83 patients; adjusted hazard ratio [HR] = 0.739; 95% CI, 0.509 to 1.073; P = .112). The greatest effect was observed in stage IIIB locoregional (LR) patients, for whom the median survival time for the L-BLP25 arm has not yet been reached compared with 13.3 months for the BSC arm (adjusted HR = 0.524; 95% CI, 0.261 to 1.052; P = .069). No significant toxicity was observed. QOL was maintained longer in patients on the L-BLP25 arm.

Conclusion

L-BLP25 maintenance therapy in patients with advanced NSCLC is feasible with minimal toxicity. The survival difference of 4.4 months observed with the vaccine did not reach statistical significance. In the subgroup of patients with stage IIIB LR disease, a strong trend in 2-year survival in favor of L-BLP25 was observed.
Phase II Study of Erlotinib (OSI-774) in Patients With Advanced Hepatocellular Cancer
Authors: Philip Philip A. , Mahoney Michelle R. , Allmer Cristine , Thomas James , Pitot Henry C. , Kim George , Donehower Ross C. , Fitch Tom , Picus Joel , Erlichman Charles
Published: September 2005

Purpose

Epidermal growth factor receptor/human epidermal growth factor receptor 1 (EGFR/HER1) and ligand expression is frequently seen in hepatocellular cancers (HCCs). Erlotinib (Tarceva, OSI-774; OSI Pharmaceuticals, Melville, NY) is a receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor with specificity for the EGFR/HER1.

Methods

The primary objective of this study was to determine the proportion of patients with advanced HCC who were progression-free at 6 months. Patients with either unresectable or metastatic disease were studied. Only one prior systemic or locoregional therapy was allowed. Erlotinib was given continuously at a dose of 150 mg per day orally.

Results

Thirty-eight patients with HCC were enrolled. Median age of the patients was 69 years (range, 27 to 83 years). A majority of patients (63%) had an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status of 1. Forty-seven percent of patients had received prior chemotherapy for advanced HCC. EGFR/HER1 expression was detected in 88% of the patients. Median number of cycles per patient was two (range, 1 to 26). Twelve (32%; CI 95%, 18 to 49) of the 38 patients with HCC were progression-free at 6 months. Three patients had partial radiologic responses of duration of 2, 10, and 11 months, respectively. Disease control was seen in 59% of the patients. Median overall survival time was 13 months. Ten patients (26%) had toxicity-related dose reductions of erlotinib. Grade 3/4 skin toxicity or diarrhea was encountered in five and three patients, respectively.

Conclusion

Results of this trial suggest a benefit for EGFR/HER1 blockade with erlotinib in patients with HCC manifested by disease control. Additional studies with erlotinib as a single agent or in combination with other agents are warranted.
Stroke As a Late Treatment Effect of Hodgkin's Disease: A Report From the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study
Authors: Bowers Daniel C. , McNeil D. Elizabeth , Liu Yan , Yasui Yutaka , Stovall Marilyn , Gurney James G. , Hudson Melissa M. , Donaldson Sarah S. , Packer Roger J. , Mitby Pauline A. , Kasper Catherine E. , Robison Leslie L. , Oeffinger Kevin C.
Published: September 2005

Purpose

The objectives of this report are to examine the incidence of and risk factors for stroke among childhood Hodgkin's disease (HD) survivors.

Patients and Methods

The Childhood Cancer Survivor Study is a multi-institutional cohort study of more than 5-year cancer survivors diagnosed between 1970 and 1986 and a sibling comparison group. Incidence rates of stroke among HD survivors (n = 1,926) and siblings (n = 3,846) were calculated and compared. Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate the hazard ratios, reported as relative risks (RR), of developing stroke between HD survivors and siblings.

Results

Nine siblings reported a stroke, for an incidence of 8.00 per 100,000 person-years (95% CI, 3.85 to 14.43 per 100,000 person-years). Twenty-four HD survivors reported a stroke. The incidence of late-occurring stroke among HD survivors was 83.6 per 100,000 person-years (95% CI, 54.5 to 121.7 per 100,000 person-years). The RR of stroke among HD survivors was 4.32 (95% CI, 2.01 to 9.29; P = .0002). All 24 survivors received mantle radiation exposure (median dose, 40 Gy). The incidence of late-occurring stroke among HD survivors treated with mantle radiation was 109.8 per 100,000 person-years (95% CI, 70.8 to 161.1 per 100,000 person-years). The RR of late-occurring stroke among HD survivors treated with mantle radiation was 5.62 (95% CI, 2.59 to 12.25; P < .0001).

Conclusion

Survivors of childhood HD are at increased risk of stroke. Mantle radiation exposure is strongly associated with subsequent stroke. Potential mechanisms may include carotid artery disease or cardiac valvular disease.
Aneurysmal Bone Cyst: A Review of 150 Patients
Authors: Mankin Henry J. , Hornicek Francis J. , Ortiz-Cruz Eduardo , Villafuerte Jorge , Gebhardt Mark C.
Published: September 2005

Purpose

We have reviewed a series of 150 aneurysmal bone cysts treated over the last 20 years.

Patients and Methods

The lesions were principally located in the tibia, femur, pelvis, humerus, and spine and, in most cases, presented the imaging appearance originally described by Jaffe and Lichtenstein as a blowout with thin cortices.

Results

Only one of the patients was believed to have an osteoblastoma of the spine with secondary development of an aneurysmal bone cyst, and none of the patients developed additional lesions. The patients were treated primarily with curettage and implantation of allograft chips or polymethylmethacrylate, but some patients were treated with insertion of autografts or allografts. The local recurrence rate was 20%, which is consistent with that reported by other centers.

Conclusion

Aneurysmal bone cysts are enigmatic lesions of unknown cause and presentation and are difficult to distinguish from other lesions. Overall, the treatment is satisfactory, but it is possible that newer approaches, such as improved magnetic resonance imaging studies, may help diagnose the lesions and allow the physicians to plan for more effective treatment protocols.
Plasma Carotenoids and Recurrence-Free Survival in Women With a History of Breast Cancer
Authors: Rock Cheryl L. , Flatt Shirley W. , Natarajan Loki , Thomson Cynthia A. , Bardwell Wayne A. , Newman Vicky A. , Hollenbach Kathy A. , Jones Lovell , Caan Bette J. , Pierce John P.
Published: September 2005

Purpose

Previous studies suggest that diet may affect recurrence or survival rates in women who have been diagnosed with breast cancer. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between plasma carotenoid concentration, as a biomarker of vegetable and fruit intake, and risk for a new breast cancer event in a cohort of women with a history of early-stage breast cancer.

Methods

Participants were 1,551 women previously treated for breast cancer who were randomly assigned to the control arm of a diet intervention trial between March 1995 and November 2000. Outcome events were probed during semiannual interviews and verified by medical record review. During the period under study, 205 women had a recurrence or new primary breast cancer. Plasma carotenoid concentrations were measured in baseline blood samples. Hazard ratios (HR) and 95% CIs by quartiles of plasma carotenoids were computed, controlling for tumor stage, grade, and hormone receptor status; chemotherapy and tamoxifen therapy; clinical site; age at diagnosis; body mass index; and plasma cholesterol concentration.

Results

Women in the highest quartile of plasma total carotenoid concentration had significantly reduced risk for a new breast cancer event (HR, 0.57; 95% CI, 0.37 to 0.89), controlled for covariates influencing breast cancer prognosis.

Conclusion

Plasma carotenoids are a biologic marker of intake of vegetables and fruit, so this observation supports findings from previous studies that have linked increased vegetable and fruit intake with greater likelihood of recurrence-free survival in women who have been diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer.
Electrical properties of nanostructured interpenetrating polymer networks based on natural rubber (NR)/polystyrene (PS)
Authors: Mathew Aji P. , Varghese Hima , Thomas S.
Published: September 2005

The electrical properties of nanostructured sequential interpenetrating polymer networks from natural rubber (NR) and polystyrene (PS) have been studied in the frequency range of 102–107 Hz. The permittivity, volume resistivity, dielectric loss factor, and dissipation factor were analyzed as a function of frequency, blend composition, crosslinking level, and initiating system. It was found that the volume resistivity and dissipation factor first increase, reach a maximum around 103–105 Hz, and then decrease gradually with the increase of frequency. As the NR content is increased from 30 to 70%, the dissipation factor (tan δ) increases. On increasing the extent of the PS phase crosslinking, the permittivity increases. However, at higher levels of PS crosslinking, the permittivity values decrease due to the agglomeration of PS phase arising from excessive crosslinking. The morphology studies using a scanning electron microscope confirmed the agglomeration of PS phase at high crosslinking level. The permittivity values are maximum at 4% of crosslinking content. The influence of initiating system on the dielectric properties was not very significant. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 98: 2017–2026, 2005
Differential scanning calorimetry characterization of urea–formaldehyde resin curing behavior as affected by less desirable wood material and catalyst content
Authors: Xing Cheng , Deng James , Zhang S. Y. , Riedl Bernard , Cloutier Alain
Published: September 2005

Differential scanning calorimetry was applied to investigate the curing behavior of urea–formaldehyde (UF) resin as affected by the catalyst content and several less desirable wood materials (e.g., wood barks, tops, and commercial thinnings). The results indicate that the reaction enthalpy of UF resin increased with increasing catalyst content. The activation energy and peak temperature of the curing UF resin generally decreased with increasing catalyst content at lower levels of catalyst content. However, with further increases in catalyst content, the changes in the activation energy and peak temperature were very limited to nonexistent. The hydrolysis reaction of the cured UF resin occurred during the latter stages of the curing process at both lower level (<0.2%) and higher level (>0.7%) catalyst contents. This indicates that there existed an optimal range of catalyst content for the UF resin. The curing enthalpy of the UF resin decreased with increasing wood raw materials present due to the effect of diffusion induced by the wood materials and the changes in the phase of the curing systems. This suggests that the curing reactions reached a lower final degree of conversion for the wood–resin mixtures than for the UF resin alone. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 98: 2027–2032, 2005
Synthesis and properties of 6FDA‐BisAAF‐PPD copolyimides for microelectronic applications
Authors: Yang Ching‐Yu , Hsu Steve Lien‐Chung , Chen J. S.
Published: September 2005

In this work, fluorine‐containing copolyimides were synthesized from 6FDA dianhydride and different ratios of BisAAF and PPD diamines. Properties, such as composition, viscosity, dielectric constant, glass‐transition temperature, thermal decomposition temperature, tensile characteristics, and transmittance, were investigated by using elemental analysis, viscometry, Fourier transform infrared spectrometry, differential scanning calorimetry, a thermogravimetric analyzer, a tensile tester, and UV–visible spectrophotometry. After curing at 300°C for 1 h, imidization was observed, as indicated the appearance of an absorption peak of the carbonyl of the imide at 1780 cm−1 (CO asymmetry stretching). The inherent viscosity increased with an increasing PPD mole fraction, from 0.40 dL/g of pure 6FDA‐BisAAF to 0.84 dL/g of pure 6FDA‐PPD. The dielectric constant decreased with increasing fluorine content. The glass‐transition temperature increased with an increasing PPD mole fraction; the values increased from 317°C with pure 6FDA‐BisAAF polyimide to 364°C with pure 6FDA‐PPD polyimide. The 5% weight loss temperature (Td) of the copolyimides was around 530°C in air and 540°C in a nitrogen atmosphere. The tensile modulus and tensile strength gradually increased with an increasing PPD molar fraction. The transmittance of 6FDA‐BisAAF‐PPD copolyimides was greater than 90% at wavelengths above 500 nm. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 98: 2064–2069, 2005
Influence of chitosan characteristics on coagulation and flocculation of organic suspensions
Authors: Roussy Jean , Van Vooren Maurice , Guibal Eric
Published: September 2005

Several samples of chitosan with different degrees of deacetylation and of different molecular weights were tested for the coagulation–flocculation of organic suspensions. Organic suspensions were prepared by mixing mushroom powder with tap water. Experiments were carried out at pH 5, pH 7, and pH 9. Because decreasing the pH reduced the amount of chitosan required to reach the required turbidity, at pH 9, a high concentration of chitosan was required to achieve the required treatment levels, whereas the difference was less significant between pH 7 and pH 5 (the required concentration of chitosan was halved). Though viscosity, correlated to the molecular weight of chitosan, affected treatment performance, its influence on the efficiency of coagulation–flocculation could be substantially reduced by slightly increasing the concentration of the polymer. This is of importance in the processing of industrial effluents: the aging of a chitosan solution, which may cause partial depolymerization, and loss of viscosity, will have a limited impact on process efficiency. The degree of deacetylation also has a limited effect on treatment performance, especially when the degree of deacetylation exceeds 90%. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 98: 2070–2079, 2005
Understanding community re‐entry of former prisoners with mental illness: a conceptual model to guide new research
Authors: Draine Jeffrey , Wolff Nancy , Jacoby Joseph E. , Hartwell Stephanie , Duclos Christine
Published: September 2005

Criminal justice, mental health, and social service professionals face a myriad of role expectations in working with prisoners with mental illness to facilitate community re‐entry. These expectations include those related to law enforcement, social welfare, and administrative efficiency. The challenge for front line workers and the multiple systems that employ them is to integrate all these expectations effectively on behalf of the individual as well as the community. Current models of re‐entry for individuals leaving prison with mental illness focus on the management and interaction of service systems. This paper presents a model of prisoner re‐entry that incorporates a larger social context, illustrating dynamics related to both individuals with mental illness leaving prison and their interaction with the community setting. This model was generated through an interdisciplinary team effort. It was refined through a focus group process that included advocates, community members and other informants from mental health and criminal justice systems in five states. The model is designed to generate new questions for research that address both individual and community level issues. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A retrospective examination of outpatient commitment in New York
Authors: Erickson Steven K.
Published: September 2005

Outpatient commitment (OC) is a growing trend in mental health treatment. The impetus for this movement has been partly due to the public perception that some mentally ill outpatients are prone to violence as result of poor treatment compliance. Numerous studies have shown that poor treatment compliance is associated with increased hospitalization, substance abuse, homelessness, and contact with the criminal justice system. This study examined treatment effectiveness, demographic variables, hospital utilization, and violence among 100 OC participants in New York. Results indicate that OC can be an effective means of increasing treatment compliance and reducing hospitalization and encounters with the criminal justice system. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The impact of mental health evidence on support for capital punishment: are defendants labeled psychopathic considered more deserving of death?
Authors: Edens John F. , Colwell Lori H. , Desforges Donna M. , Fernandez Krissie
Published: September 2005

Controversy surrounds the use of the Hare Psychopathy Checklist—Revised (Hare, 1991, 2003) in capital murder cases, where it has been introduced to support prosecution claims that a defendant represents a “continuing threat to society”. Although widely presumed to have a prejudicial impact (e.g., American Psychological Association, 2004), little is known about how the lay public reacts to data derived from ostensibly stigmatizing assessment instruments such as the PCL‐R. The present study examined the effect of psychopathy data on layperson attitudes by having 203 undergraduates review a capital murder case where the results of the defendant's psychological evaluation were experimentally manipulated. When expert testimony described the defendant as psychopathic, a much larger percentage of participants supported a death sentence (60%) than when testimony indicated that he was psychotic (30%) or not mentally disordered (38%). Interestingly, participant ratings of how psychopathic they perceived the defendant to be—regardless of the testimony condition to which they had been assigned—also predicted support for a death sentence. Given the limited probative value of the PCL‐R in capital cases and the prejudicial nature of the effects noted in this study, we recommend that forensic examiners avoid using it in these trials. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Enaminones in Heterocyclic Synthesis: Synthesis and Chemical Reactivity of 3‐Anilino‐1‐substituted‐2‐propene‐1‐one.
Authors: Al‐Saleh Balkis , El‐Apasery Morsy Ahmed , Abdel‐Aziz Rasha Safwat , Elnagdi Mohamed Hilmy
Published: September 2005

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Investigation of Naphthyridines. Part 16. Synthesis of Derivatives of 2,5‐Dioxo‐1,2,5,6,7,8‐hexahydro‐1,6‐naphthyridine‐3‐carboxylic Acids from Anilides (Hydrazides) of 6‐Oxo‐2‐styrylnicotinic Acids.
Authors: Deyanov A. B. , Konshin M. E. , Semenova Z. N.
Published: September 2005

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
Stereoselective Rearrangement of β‐Hydroxy‐N‐acyloxazolidin‐2‐ones to Afford N‐2‐Hydroxyethyl‐1,3‐oxazinane‐2,4‐diones.
Authors: Feuillet Fred J. P. , Niyadurupola D. Gangani , Green Rachel , Cheeseman Matt , Bull Steven D.
Published: September 2005

For Abstract see ChemInform Abstract in Full Text.
In vitro permeation of diclofenac sodium from novel microemulsion formulations through rabbit skin
Authors: Kantarcı Gülten , Özgüney Işık , Karasulu Hatice Y. , Güneri Tamer , Başdemir Gülçin
Published: September 2005

In order to increase topical penetration of the nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drug, diclofenac sodium, new microemulsion formulations were prepared to increase drug solubility and in vitro penetration of the drug. The influence of dimethyl sulfoxide and propylene glycol were also investigated as enhancers on the in vitro penetration of diclofenac sodium using Franz diffusion cells using excised dorsal rabbit skin. Factorial randomized design was performed to analyze the results of in vitro permeation studies. Microemulsions prepared with isopropyl alcohol were superior to those prepared with propanol. Enhancers had different effects depending on the formulation. Propylene glycol was superior to dimethyl sulfoxide when incorporated into isopropyl alcohol microemulsion, whereas dimethyl sulfoxide was superior to propylene glycol in propanol microemulsions. There were no observable histopathological differences between the skin of the control group and the treated groups at the light microscope level due to swelling of the skin tissue. The present study shows that microemulsion formulations containing isopropyl alcohol as co‐surfactant and propylene glycol as enhancer represent a promising approach for a topical vehicle for diclofenac sodium. Drug Dev. Res. 65:17–25, 2005. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Modulation of intrasperm Ca2+: A possible maneuver for spermicidal activity
Authors: Gupta Anshu , Gupta Puneet Kumar , Jain Subheet , Moudgil Pranab , Tiwary Ashok Kumar
Published: September 2005

Sperm in the testis and proximal part of epididymis are nonmotile. As sperm matures, its response towards Ca2+changes. The cation is essential for stimulating motility of sperm in epididymis. However, both a decrease in extracellular Ca2+below 65% and an increase in the intracellular Ca2+above 1200 nM are detrimental to sperm survival in ejaculated semen. Ca2+homeostasis in sperm cells is intricately maintained through influx and efflux of Ca2+via various channels and pumps present on sperm membrane. Depletion of intracellular calcium evokes the opening of calcium channels present on sperm, thus causing Ca2+influx. The efflux of Ca2+can be effectively blocked by Na+‐Ca2+exchange inhibitors, thus resulting in elevation of intracellular Ca2+beyond the threshold level. Na+‐K+‐ATPase inhibitors and IP3 modulators can potentiate this effect. Furthermore, Ca2+channel blockers acting on L‐ and T‐type channels can modulate intrasperm Ca2+by influencing its influx. In addition, a close relationship exists between Ca2+and other regulators of sperm viability such as intracellular pH (Na+‐H+exchanger), cAMP, protein kinases, calmodulin, etc. In light of these facts, it becomes imperative to consider the pivotal role of intracellular Ca2+in sperm function and to critically evaluate the possible use of pharmacological agents as contact spermicides. This should aid in identifying novel target sites for arresting sperm viability in ejaculated human semen. As these agents will act on ejaculated sperm, they should be devoid of any adverse effects associated with the other contraceptives. The ideal agent will be one that acts selectively on a sperm Ca2+mobilization process or preferably on a Ca2+mobilization process that is expressed only in sperm. Recent reports on Catsper, a cation channel expressed only in sperm cells, have generated considerable interest in the search for novel nonhormonal approaches for contraception. Drug Dev. Res. 65:1–16, 2005. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Helping children and adults cope with parental infidelity
Authors: Lusterman Don‐David
Published: September 2005

This article addresses the impact of discovered marital infidelity on the couple's young children, adolescents, and adult children. It distinguishes between two types of infidelity, affairs and womanizing, and suggests differential treatments for each. Treatment must address the impact of the secrecy, which is always part of infidelity, and the boundary violations that occur when a child is directly involved in the infidelity or in its aftermath. Four clinical cases illustrate therapeutic interventions for children suffering from their parent's infidelity. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol/In Session 61: 1439–1451, 2005.
The production of organic nitrates from atmospheric oxidation of ethers and glycol ethers
Authors: Espada Cyntia , Shepson Paul B.
Published: September 2005

The production of organic nitrates from OH reaction (in the presence of NO) with methoxy propane, 1‐methoxy‐2‐propanol, ethoxy butane, and 2‐butoxyethanol was studied. The measured total organic nitrate yields were 1.8 (±0.4)%, 0.98 (±0.2)%, 7.7 (±2)%, and 9.6 (±1)%, respectively. The total organic nitrate yield for methoxypropane is 26% of that (7.0%) for n‐butane. The organic nitrate yield for ethoxy butane is 55% of that (14%) for n‐hexane. The peroxy radicals produced from OH reaction with the methylene groups α to the ether linkage have an organic nitrate branching ratio (k3b/k3) value ∼50% of those in analogous n‐alkanes. On the other hand, k3b/k3 values for peroxy radical functional groups not adjacent to the ether linkage (in γ and δ positions) are on average 1.7 times greater than for the analogous n‐alkyl peroxy radicals. The organic nitrate formation yield for 1‐methoxy‐2‐propanol is almost half that of methoxy propane, while for 2‐butoxyethanol it is 21% greater than that of butoxyethane. Our data lead us to the conclusion that the ether linkage imparts an inductive effect that decreases the value of k3b/k3 for peroxy radicals adjacent to it, yet has a stabilizing effect, from the additional vibrational modes for those peroxy radicals not adjacent to it, increasing their k3b/k3 values. The effect of both the O and OH groups in these molecules and the importance of their position relative to the peroxy group are discussed in this paper. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Chem Kinet 37: 686–699, 2005
Two new dammarane triterpenoids from Kageneckia angustifolia D. Don
Authors: López‐Pérez José Luis , Erazo Silvia , Delporte Carla , Negrete Rosa , Muñoz Orlando , García Rubén , Backhouse Nadine , San Feliciano Arturo
Published: September 2005

Two new dammarane triterpenoids, 20R,21‐epoxydammar‐24‐ene‐3,23‐dione and 20R,21‐epoxy‐3β‐hydroxydammar‐24‐ene‐23‐one have been isolated from the aerial parts of Kageneckia angustifolia D. Don, Rosaceae, along with the previously reported triterpenoids oleanolic acid and 3β‐(β‐D‐glucosyloxy)‐16α,23α‐epoxycucurbita‐5,24‐dien‐11‐one and the phenolic prunasin. The structures of these compounds were established by MS, 1D‐ and 2D‐NMR experiments, and the structure of the new compounds were confirmed by X‐ray diffraction analysis. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Characterisation of the phenolic profile of Boerhaavia diffusa L. by HPLC‐PAD‐MS/MS as a tool for quality control
Authors: Ferreres Federico , Sousa Carla , Justin Mulangu , Valentão Patrícia , Andrade Paula B. , Llorach Rafael , Rodrigues Alírio , Seabra Rosa M. , Leitão Anabela
Published: September 2005

Phenolic acids and flavonols of nine leaf and three root samples of Boerhaavia diffusa L., collected at different locations and subjected to several drying procedures, were characterised by reversed‐phase HPLC‐PADESI/MS for the first time. Ten phenolic compounds were identified: 3,4‐dihydroxy‐5‐methoxycinnamoyl‐rhamnoside, quercetin 3‐O‐rhamnosyl(1→6)galactoside (quercetin 3‐O‐robinobioside), quercetin 3‐O‐(2″‐rhamnosyl)‐robinobioside, kaempferol 3‐O‐(2″‐rhamnosyl)‐robinobioside, 3,5,4′‐trihydroxy‐6,7‐dimethoxyflavone 3‐O‐galactosyl(1→2)glucoside [eupalitin 3‐O‐galactosyl(1→2)glucoside], caffeoyltartaric acid, kaempferol 3‐O‐robinobioside, eupalitin 3‐O‐galactoside, quercetin and kaempferol. Quantification was achieved by HPLC‐PAD and two phenolic patterns were found for the leaves, in which quercetin 3‐O‐robinobioside or quercetin 3‐O‐(2″‐rhamnosyl)‐robinobioside was the major compound. Caffeoyltartaric acid was only present in the root material where it represented the main phenolic constituent. The results obtained demonstrated that the geographical origin (particularly the nature of the soil), but not the drying process, influences the phenolic composition. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prediction and evolutionary information analysis of protein solvent accessibility using multiple linear regression
Authors: Wang Jung‐Ying , Lee Hahn‐Ming , Ahmad Shandar
Published: September 2005

A multiple linear regression method was applied to predict real values of solvent accessibility from the sequence and evolutionary information. This method allowed us to obtain coefficients of regression and correlation between the occurrence of an amino‐acid residue at a specific target and its sequence neighbor positions on the one hand, and the solvent accessibility of that residue on the other. Our linear regression model based on sequence information and evolutionary models was found to predict residue accessibility with 18.9% and 16.2% mean absolute error respectively, which is better than or comparable to the best available methods. A correlation matrix for several neighbor positions to examine the role of evolutionary information at these positions has been developed and analyzed. As expected, the effective frequency of hydrophobic residues at target positions shows a strong negative correlation with solvent accessibility, whereas the reverse is true for charged and polar residues. The correlation of solvent accessibility with effective frequencies at neighboring positions falls abruptly with distance from target residues. Longer protein chains have been found to be more accurately predicted than their smaller counterparts. Proteins 2005. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Development and control of MOVPE growth processes for devices using reflectance anisotropy spectroscopy and normalized reflectance
Authors: Zorn Martin , Zettler J.‐Thomas
Published: September 2005

The use of the optical in situ techniques reflectance anisotropy (RA) and normalized reflectance (NR) for metal‐organic vapour‐phase epitaxy (MOVPE) growth processes of compound semiconductor devices is reviewed. The RA signal detects small deviations in the doping profile during growth of hetero‐bipolar transistors and correlates to the emission wavelength of edge‐emitting laser structure via its sensitivity to the quantum well composition. The NR signal is crucial for the alignment of distributed Bragg reflectors (DBR) in vertical‐cavity surface‐emitting lasers. With simultaneously performed RA and NR measurements the doping profile as well as the DBR alignment can be determined in situ. The composition monitoring in quaternary InGaAsP grown on InP is demonstrated using the RA signal for the As:P ratio while the NR signal is used for the Ga:In ratio. For AlGaInP on GaAs the NR signal is sensitive to both the aluminium and the indium content. Therefore these effects have to be separated via the determination of the growth efficiency of the respective materials using the growth rate calculated from the NR signal. (© 2005 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)