bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Accuracy of fine‐needle aspiration cytology of salivary gland lesions in the netherlands cancer institute
Authors: Postema Rolf J. , van Velthuysen Mari‐Louise F. , van den Brekel Michiel W. M. , Balm Alfons J. M. , Peterse Johannes L.
Published: April 2004

Background.

To evaluate the accuracy of fine‐needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) in salivary gland lesions in a tertiary referral center.

Methods.

A cytohistologic correlation study was performed using an automated pathology database of 1023 patients diagnosed with a salivary gland lesion.

Results.

In 388 cases, both cytology and histology were available. Using cytologic confirmation of malignancy as the starting point, the sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of FNAC in this study were 88%, 99%, and 96%, respectively. Exact type‐specific concordance of the malignant diagnosis was achieved in 66 (88%) of 75 cases and in 211 (95%) of 223 benign cases. Of the 19 cases with a cytologic diagnosis “cyst,” four proved to be malignant. A non‐neoplastic lesion at cytology proved to be correctly classified in 53 (68%) of 80 patients.

Conclusions.

Our data show that cytology is a reliable and accurate technique to assess lesions of the salivary glands. The cytologic diagnosis of “cysts” and “non‐neoplastic lesions” should be interpreted with caution. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 26: 418–424, 2004
Promising results with chemoradiation in patients with sinonasal undifferentiated carcinoma
Authors: Rischin Danny , Porceddu Sandro , Peters Lester , Martin Jarad , Corry June , Weih LeAnn
Published: April 2004

Background.

Sinonasal undifferentiated carcinoma (SNUC) is an uncommon malignancy associated with poor prognosis. The optimal treatment approach for SNUC has not been established was performed.

Methods.

A retrospective review of all patients with SNUC seen at the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre over a 12‐year period.

Results.

Ten patients with SNUC were identified, with nine having locally advanced disease (T4). Seven were treated with three cycles of platinum and 5‐fluorouracil followed by radiation with two cycles of concurrent platinum. In these seven patients, the 2‐year progress on‐free survival was 43% (95% CI, 11% to 82%) and 2‐year overall survival was 64% (95% CI, 23% to 91%). One patient with a T1N0 nasal cavity tumor treated with radiation alone has not relapsed. Two patients who were treated with initial surgical resection, prior to referral to our institution, received postoperative radiation, but they subsequently had relapses and died.

Conclusion.

Induction chemotherapy followed by concurrent chemoradiation is promising treatment strategy for SNUC. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 26: 435–441, 2004.
Facial node involvement in head and neck cancer
Authors: Sheahan Patrick , Colreavy Michael , Toner Mary , Timon Conrad V. I.
Published: April 2004

Background.

Facial node involvement in head and neck cancer is rarely documented. Furthermore, facial node removal may increase the risk of damage to the marginal mandibular nerve. Thus, although they may receive afferent lymphatic drainage from the oral cavity, facial nodes are rarely removed during neck dissection.

Methods.

We retrospectively reviewed the records of 29 patients with oral cavity or oropharyngeal carcinomas who underwent facial node sampling in 32 heminecks during neck dissection for oral cavity or oropharyngeal cancer.

Results.

Facial node metastases were present in seven patients. Facial node involvement was much more common among patients with palpable cervical lymphadenopathy. Positive facial nodes were associated with an increased risk of treatment failure and a poorer survival.

Conclusions.

In patients with oral cavity/oropharyngeal primary tumors and palpable cervical lymphadenopathy, consideration should be given to removal of facial nodes during neck dissection; however, further data are awaited before any benefits can be quantified. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 26: 531–536, 2004
Transoral carbon dioxide laser microsurgery for recurrent glottic carcinoma after radiotherapy
Authors: Steiner Wolfgang , Vogt Petra , Ambrosch Petra , Kron Martina
Published: April 2004

Background.

Transoral laser microsurgery is successfully performed in the treatment of primary laryngeal carcinomas. Few publications deal with the application in patients with recurrent glottic carcinomas after radiation failure. Our study aims to review our experience with transoral laser microsurgery in these patients.

Methods.

Thirty‐four patients with early and advanced recurrent glottic carcinoma after full‐course radiotherapy (rT1, n = 11; rT2, n = 10; rT3, n = 10; rT4, n = 3) had CO2 laser treatment with curative intent between 1987 and 1998.

Results.

Twenty‐four patients (71%) were cured with one or more laser procedures. In nine patients, recurrences could not be controlled by laser microsurgery: six patients underwent total laryngectomy and three palliative treatment. One patient received total laryngectomy because of chondronecrosis after laser treatment. With a median follow‐up interval of 38.6 months, the 3‐year and 5‐year disease‐specific survival was 86%. The overall 3‐year survival rate was 74%; the corresponding 5‐year survival rate was 53%. No major complications occurred. In three cases, temporary tracheostomy was needed.

Conclusions.

In early‐stage and advanced‐stage recurrent glottic carcinomas after radiotherapy, CO2 laser treatment can successfully be used as a curative organ‐preserving procedure. Compared with salvage laryngectomy, results are superior with respect to preservation of laryngeal function. Great expertise is required, especially in resections of advanced‐stage recurrent carcinomas. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 26: 477–484, 2004
Constitutive expression of interleukin‐18 in head and neck squamous carcinoma cells
Authors: Martone Tiziana , Bellone Graziella , Pagano Marco , Beatrice Fabio , Palonta Francesca , Emanuelli Giorgio , Cortesina Giorgio
Published: April 2004

Background.

Interleukin (IL)‐18 is a potent immunomodulatory cytokine promoting TH‐1 and cytotoxic immune responses through interferon (IFN)‐γ induction. The aim of this study was to investigate the production of IL‐18 by squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (HNSCC).

Methods.

The expression of IL‐18 was analyzed by reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction, Western blot, and ELISA in untreated and 5‐fluorouracil (5‐FU)–treated HNSCC cell lines. Immunohistochemical analysis was performed on tumor specimens from 16 patients with primary invasive HNSCC.

Results.

We have demonstrated that HNSCC cell lines express IL‐18 at the mRNA, as well as the protein, level. However, the IL‐18 protein was expressed intracellularly and predominantly released as an unprocessed inactive 24‐kDa form. After exposure to 5‐FU, the processed form of IL‐18 was detected in the supernatants of both HNSCC cell lines.

Conclusions.

These results indicate that HNSCC cells are a potential source of IL‐18 cytokine. The finding that the exposure to 5‐FU can elicit its processing suggests a novel target for immunomodulatory intervention in patients with HNSCC. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 26: 494–503, 2004
Surgical variables affecting swallowing in patients treated for oral/oropharyngeal cancer
Authors: Pauloski Barbara Roa , Rademaker Alfred W. , Logemann Jerilyn A. , McConnel Fred M. S. , Heiser Mary Anne , Cardinale Salvatore , Lazarus Cathy L. , Pelzer Harold , Stein David , Beery Quinter
Published: April 2004

Background.

Postoperative swallowing function may be influenced by a number of treatment variables; this study examines the relationship of various treatment factors to measures of swallow function.

Methods.

Swallowing was examined with the modified barium swallow procedure in 144 patients surgically treated for oral or oropharyngeal cancer 3 months after healing. Univariate and multivariate correlations were used to examine the relationship between swallowing function and treatment.

Results.

Percent tongue base resected and total volume resected were most often correlated with swallowing function in the univariate analyses. Multivariate analyses identified the following combinations with the strongest correlations: (1) percent tongue base resected and closure type for liquids; (2) percent tongue base resected and unreconstructed mandible for pastes; (3) total volume resected, percent lateral floor of mouth resected, and postoperative radiotherapy dose for masticated boluses.

Conclusions.

Total volume resected and percent tongue base resected had a profound impact on postoperative swallowing function. Combinations of percent tongue base resected with other surgical variables had the strongest relationships with overall swallowing function. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 26: 625–636, 2004
The in vivo calcification capacity of a copolymer, based on methacryloyloxyethyl phosphate, does not favor osteoconduction
Authors: Stancu I.C. , Filmon R. , Grizon F. , Zaharia C. , Cincu C. , Baslé M.F. , Chappard D.
Published: April 2004

Polymers can be interesting alternatives to bone grafts; they must present suitable mechanical and osteoconductive properties. Biomimetic properties may be a key factor for the recognition by bone cells. Methacryloyloxyethyl phosphate (MOEP) was found to enhance hydroxyapatite deposition. The copolymer containing MOEP and 1‐vinyl‐2‐pyrrolidinone (50–50%) binds large amounts of calcium. Particles of the copolymer were used to fill large cranial bone defects in the rat. After a 12‐week healing period, the animals were euthanized and the skulls examined by X‐ray, histology, and electron microscopy (EM). The high phosphate content of the polymer conferred a marked calcium‐binding capacity, and the particles were heavily calcified. They were embedded in a light fibrous stroma containing numerous capillaries and multinucleated giant cells. The osteoconductive properties were poor: only few trabeculae developed centripetally from the margins of the defects. There was no bone bonding and no osteoblast on the surface of the calcified material. Backscattered EM revealed that the degree of calcification was homogeneous in all particles. Calcium‐phosphorus calcospherites were never observed. The material appeared to trap calcium but to impair nucleation because only small hydroxyapatite tablets were occasionally observed. Polyphosphated materials do not represent a suitable source of potentially usable bone substitutes. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res 69A: 584–589, 2004
Determining relevance of a weight‐bearing ovine model for bone ingrowth assessment
Authors: Willie Bettina M. , Bloebaum Roy D. , Bireley William R. , Bachus Kent N. , Hofmann Aaron A.
Published: April 2004

A weight‐bearing ovine model was used to quantify cancellous bone ingrowth and remodeling in porous‐coated implants over 6, 12, and 24 weeks in situ. The null hypothesis for the investigation was that there would be no significant difference between the amount of cancellous bone ingrowth and rate of remodeling in this ovine model compared to a reported human bilateral implant model. Bone ingrowth progressed from 20.1 ± 8.2% at 6 weeks in situ to 23.8 ± 7.9% at 12 weeks, and 30 ± 5.1% at 24 weeks. Fluorochrome analysis demonstrated a mineral apposition rate of 1.07 ± 0.28 μm/day for bone at the porous‐coating interface, whereas host bone remodeling at 0.89 ± 0.23 μm/day. Histological analysis showed no adverse tissue or inflammatory response. The null hypothesis was supported in that regression analysis demonstrated that the amount of cancellous bone ingrowth over time (p = 0.545) and mineral apposition rate over time (p = 0.089) in this ovine model was not significantly different than reported human bilateral knee data. The results of this study appear to validate the ovine model for use in understanding skeletal attachment of porous‐coated implants to cancellous bone in humans. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res 69A: 567–576, 2004
Chemical extraction and direct adsorptive purification of recombinant human antigen Ro52
Authors: Saccodossi Natalia , Cabrera Rosa B. , Oliver Fernando , Gelmi Lucila , Magglio Daniel G. , Fernández‐Lahore Héctor M. , Leoni Juliana , Stumpo Rita R.
Published: April 2004

The antigenic protein Ro52 was expressed in the E. coli system harboring a 6×His tag in the form of insoluble inclusion bodies. Direct chemical extraction of the product using 6–8 M urea proved to be effective. Furthermore, the tagged protein was recovered by direct adsorption on Ni2+‐loaded commercial adsorbents derivatized with iminodiacetic acid. Screening experiments in small packed columns revealed that selective binding and elution were possible using a denaturing buffer at pH 4.5. The hydrodynamic evaluation of scaled‐up fluidized systems showed values for the φ (dynamic zone) parameter in the range 0.95–1.00 for fluidization in buffer and in the range 0.70–0.85 for the biomass‐containing feedstock. Removal of macromolecular DNA released by the disrupted biomass was mandatory. Under optimized process conditions good recovery (60–70%) was achieved and a highly purified (95%) product obtained. The purified Ro52 retained its immunoreactivity against sera of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and Sjögren's syndrome‐related disorders. The production and application of new recombinant antigens may contribute to increasing the sensitivity and specificity of the detection of anti‐Ro antibodies in these autoimmune diseases.
Synthesis and Thermal Characterization of Perfluorocyclobutyl (PFCB) Polymers Containing Crown Ether Vertebrae
Authors: Ligon S. Clark , Topping Chris M. , Jin Jianyong , Fallis Stephen , Irvin Jennifer A. , Desmarteau Darryl D. , Smith Dennis W.
Published: April 2004

Summary: The synthesis and polymerization of novel 18‐crown‐6 and 24‐crown‐8 bis aryl trifluorovinyl ethers is described. Thermally induced polymerization yields linear crown ether fluoropolymers with hexafluorocyclobutyl linkages. The polymers exhibit Tg's above 120 °C and show good thermal stability with no appreciable weight loss below 350 °C. Incorporation of crown ether macrocycles into the polymer is expected to increase cationic uptake of an otherwise electroneutral fluoropolymer.

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Monolayer Assemblies of Comb Polymers Containing Different Kinds of Fluorocarbon Side‐Chains
Authors: Fujimori Atsuhiro , Shibasaki Yoshio , Araki Tohru , Nakahara Hiroo
Published: April 2004

Summary: Langmuir monolayers and organized molecular films of comb polymers containing different kinds of fluorocarbon side‐chains with various chain lengths and substituted atoms at the ω‐position were characterized by surface pressure‐area isotherms as well as Brewster angle microscopy on a water surface and by scanning probe microscopies (AFM and FFM) and the out‐of and in‐plane X‐ray diffractions on the solid substrates, respectively. When compared with monolayers of fluorinated amphiphilic vinyl monomers, those of the corresponding comb polymers were significantly stabilized. The nanostructures of these organized molecular films changed considerably with the film fabrication method used (such as mixed monolayers with hydrogenated amphiphiles) and the deposition conditions as well as with minor chemical modification of the fluorinated comb polymers with different hydrophilic esters and fluorocarbon side‐chains. The characteristic friction behavior for films built up of the fluorinated amphiphiles and comb polymers was found to depend strongly on the chemical constituents of the outermost layer of the film surface.

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Synthesis and Ring‐Opening Metathesis Polymerization (ROMP) Reactivity of endo‐and exo‐Norbornenylazlactone Using Ruthenium Catalysts
Authors: Lapinte Vincent , Brosse Jean‐Claude , Fontaine Laurent
Published: April 2004

Summary: Norbornenylazlactone (NBAz) was prepared by a Diels‐Alder cycloaddition between cyclopentadiene and 2‐vinyl‐4,4‐dimethyl‐5‐oxazolone. The stereoselectivity of this pericyclic reaction was in favour of endo isomers. The ring‐opening metathesis polymerization (ROMP) of NBAz was carried out in presence of ruthenium catalysts [(PCy3)2(Cl)2RuCHPh 1; (SIMes)(PCy3)(Cl)2RuCHPh 2 (SIMes: 1,3‐dimesityl‐4,5‐dihydroimidazol‐2‐ylidene); (PiPr3)2(Cl)2RuCHSPh 3; (PiPr3)(Cl)2RuCH(CH2)2C, N‐2‐C5H4N 4]. It was found that the exo isomer is much more reactive than the corresponding endo isomer. Some hypotheses of mechanism are suggested to justify the low polymerization rate of endo isomer using the results of NBAz derivatives as the hydrolyzed NBAz, 5, and the coupling product between NBAz and glycine methyl ester hydrochloride, 6. For exo‐NBAz, the propagating rate constant, kp, was determined with the four Ru‐initiators and their activity decreases in the order 2 > 1 > 3 > 4. Complementary kinetic measurements with 1 and 2 were given as kp/ki ratio. The ROMP of exo isomer was faster with 2 than 1 in spite of a worse control of the chains size. The azlactone ring survived intact during the polymerization and may be used for further reactions with nucleophiles.

ROMP of NBAz by ruthenium initiators.

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ROMP of NBAz by ruthenium initiators.
Synthesis and Properties of a New Poly(arylene ethynylene) Containing 1,3,5‐Triazine Units
Authors: Fang Qiang , Yamamoto Takakazu
Published: April 2004

Summary: A new photoluminescent poly(arylene ethynylene) containing 1,3,5‐triazine units was prepared by polycondensation between 2,4‐diphenyl‐6‐N,N‐bis(4‐bromophenyl)amino‐1,3,5‐triazine and 1,4‐didodecyloxy‐2,5‐diethynylbenzene using Pd(PPh3)4 and CuI as the catalysts in the presence of triethylamine. The polymer showed good solubility in common organic solvents and had a number average molecular weight, $\overline M _{\rm n}$, of 3 400, and a weight average molecular weight, $\overline M _{\rm w}$, of 8 100. In toluene the polymer exhibited an intrinsic viscosity [η] of 0.11 dL · g−1 at 30 °C. The polymer showed photoluminescence (PL) with emission peaks at 479 nm in CHCl3 and at 509 nm in the solid state; quantum yield of the PL in CHCl3 was 21%. Electrochemical reduction (or n‐doping) of the polymer started at about −2.05 V versus Ag/AgNO3 and gave a peak at −2.30 V versus Ag/AgNO3.

The 1,2,3‐triazine unit‐containing poly(arylene ethynylene) (PATZ) polymer synthesized and investigated here.

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The 1,2,3‐triazine unit‐containing poly(arylene ethynylene) (PATZ) polymer synthesized and investigated here.
High‐Temperature Propagation and Termination Kinetics of Styrene to High Conversion Investigated by Electron Paramagnetic Resonance Spectroscopy
Authors: Zetterlund Per B. , Yamauchi Satoru , Yamada Bunichiro
Published: April 2004

Summary: The free radical bulk polymerization of styrene at 120 °C has been investigated over almost the entire conversion range using electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy, Fourier‐transform near‐infrared spectroscopy and gel permeation chromatography. The free radical concentration went through a sharp maximum that coincided with the peak in the rate of polymerization during the gel effect, and shifted to higher conversion with increasing initiator concentration. The termination rate coefficient (kt), decoupled from the initiator efficiency (f) by use of the instantaneous degree of polymerization, remained close to constant up to as high as approximately 80% conversion, at which a dramatic decrease occurred. Both the propagation rate coefficient (kp) and f fell orders of magnitude near 80% conversion in spite of the temperature being above the glass transition temperature of the system. The value of kp increased with the initiator concentration at a given conversion in the highest (diffusion‐controlled) conversion range.

Termination rate coefficient (kt) versus conversion for bulk free radical polymerization of St initiated by TBP at 120 °C. [TBP] = 0.15 (○), 0.10 (▴) and 0.05 M ().

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Termination rate coefficient (kt) versus conversion for bulk free radical polymerization of St initiated by TBP at 120 °C. [TBP] = 0.15 (○), 0.10 (▴) and 0.05 M ().
Miscibility and Intermolecular Specific Interactions in Blends of Poly(hydroxyether sulfone) and Poly(N‐vinylpyrrolidone)
Authors: Lü Han , Zheng Sixun , Zhang Bing , Tang Xiaozhen
Published: April 2004

Summary:The blends of poly(hydroxyether sulfone) (PHES) with poly(N‐vinylpyrrolidone) (PVPy) were investigated by means of differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and FTIR spectroscopy. The miscibility of the blend system was established on the basis of the thermal analysis results. DSC showed that the PHES/PVPy blends prepared by casting fromN,N‐dimethylformamide (DMF) possessed single, composition‐dependent glass transition temperatures, indicating that the blends are miscible in the entire composition. The experimental glass transition temperatures have higher values than those calculated on the basis of additive behavior; the variation of the glass transition temperatures of the blends was accounted for by the Kwei equation. FTIR studies indicate that competitive hydrogen bonding interactions exist upon addition of PVPy to the system, which were involved in the self‐ and cross‐association, i.e., OH···OS, OH···OH of PHES and OH···OC< of PVPy. The FTIR spectra in the range of the sulfonyl stretching vibrations showed that the hydroxyl‐associated sulfonyl groups are partially “set free” upon addition of PVPy to the system. The IR spectroscopic investigation of both the model compounds and the PHES/PVPy blends suggests that the strength of the hydrogen bonding interactions in the blend system increases in the following order: OH···OS, OH···OH and OH···OC<.

Plot of glass transition temperature for PHES/PVPy blends as a function of weight fraction of PVPy. The prediction of the Kwei equation yields the values ofk = 1 andq = 122.

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Plot of glass transition temperature for PHES/PVPy blends as a function of weight fraction of PVPy. The prediction of the Kwei equation yields the values ofk = 1 andq = 122.
Swelling, Elasticity and Spatial Inhomogeneity of Poly(N,N‐dimethylacrylamide) Hydrogels Formed at Various Polymer Concentrations
Authors: Gundogan Nermin , Okay Oguz , Oppermann Wilhelm
Published: April 2004

Summary: The equilibrium swelling degree, modulus of elasticity and the spatial inhomogeneity of poly(N,N‐dimethylacrylamide) (PDMAAm) hydrogels were investigated over the entire range of the initial monomer concentration. The degree of dilution of the networks after their preparation was denoted by ν, the volume fraction of crosslinked polymer after the gel preparation. The linear swelling ratio of the gels increased linearly with increasing ν. Depending on the value of ν, three different gel regimes were observed: (1) For ν < 0.3, increasing ν decreases the extent of cyclization during crosslinking so that the effective crosslink density of gels increases with rising ν. (2) For 0.3 < ν < 0.7, increasing ν reduces the accessibility of the pendant vinyl groups during crosslinking due to steric hindrance at high polymer concentrations. As a result, the effective crosslink density of gels decreases with increasing ν. (3) For ν > 0.7, the modulus of elasticity increases sharply with increasing ν due to the increasing extent of chain entanglements in this high concentration regime. Static light scattering measurements on the gels show that the degree of spatial gel inhomogeneity in PDMAAm gels attains a maximum value at ν = 0.06. The appearance of a maximum as well as the ν‐dependence of scattered light intensities from gels was successfully reproduced by the theory proposed by Panyukov and Rabin.

Effective crosslink density νe of the hydrogels shown as a function of ν.

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Effective crosslink density νe of the hydrogels shown as a function of ν.
Synthesis of Macromonomers via Catalytic Chain Transfer (CCT) Polymerization and their Characterization via NMR Spectroscopy and Electrospray Ionization Mass Spectrometry (ESI‐MS)
Authors: Chiu T. Y. Joan , Heuts Johan P. A. , Davis Thomas P. , Stenzel Martina H. , Barner‐Kowollik Christopher
Published: April 2004

Summary: Macromonomers consisting of a butyl acrylate (BA) tail and α‐methyl styrene (AMS) or benzyl methacrylate (BzMA) unsaturated termini were synthesized via catalytic chain transfer (CCT) polymerization employing the low spin bis(difluoroboryl)dimethylglyoximato cobalt (II) (COBF) complex. The structures of the generated macromonomers were characterized via 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy and electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI‐MS). A variety of low molecular weight ($\overline M _{\rm n}$ < 4 000 g · mol−1) BA/AMS and BA/BzMA macromonomers were generated by varying the reaction conditions. The generated BA/AMS macromonomers are shown to be terminated by an AMS moiety while consisting of n units of BA plus 1 to 3 units of AMS. The structures of the synthesized BA/BzMA macromonomers give a more complex mixture. Apart from BzMA terminated macromonomer chains consisting of n units of BA plus 1 to 3 units of BzMA, pure BA macromonomers were also generated.

Possible structure of BA/AMS macromonomers with various length of the BA tail and a different number of AMS units.

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Possible structure of BA/AMS macromonomers with various length of the BA tail and a different number of AMS units.
Reverse Atom Transfer Radical Polymerization of Methyl Methacrylate using a New Catalyst, Copper(II) N,N′‐Butyldithiocarbamate
Authors: Zhang Wei , Zhu Xiulin , Zhu Jian , Cheng Zhenping
Published: April 2004

Summary: The homogeneous bulk reverse ATRP using AIBN/Cu(SC(S)N(C4H9)2)2/bpy as the initiating system has been successfully carried out for methyl methacrylate. Well‐controlled polymerizations with low polydispersities ($\overline M _{\rm w} /\overline M _{\rm n}$ = 1.10–1.30) have been achieved. The revised number‐average molecular weights ($\overline M _{{\rm n}({\rm rev})}$'s) increased linearly with monomer conversion and were close to the $\overline M _{{\rm n}({\rm th})}$ values. The polymerization rate followed the first‐order kinetics in monomer, while it is about 2.0 order in initiator concentration and 1.15 order in Cu(II) concentration. The k values for the homogeneous bulk reverse ATRP of MMA initiated by AIBN/Cu(SC(S)N(C4H9)2)2/bpy (1:2:6) at 80, 90, 100 and 110 °C were 0.402 × 10−4, 1.021 × 10−4, 2.952 × 10−4, and 3.687 × 10−4 (s−1), respectively. On the basis of the Arrhenius plot, the apparent activation energy was calculated to be ΔE = 87.1 kJ/mol. The obtained PMMA was functionalized with an ultraviolet light sensitive ω‐SC(S)N(C4H9)2 group characterized by means of 1H NMR spectroscopy, and which was also proved by its chain extension with fresh MMA under UV‐light irradiation at room temperature. A polymerization mechanism for this novel initiation system is proposed.

Dependence of $\overline M _{{\rm n}({\rm rev})}$ and $\overline M _{\rm w} /\overline M _{\rm n}$ on the monomer conversion for the homogeneous bulk reverse ATRP of MMA at different concentration of catalyst.

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Dependence of $\overline M _{{\rm n}({\rm rev})}$ and $\overline M _{\rm w} /\overline M _{\rm n}$ on the monomer conversion for the homogeneous bulk reverse ATRP of MMA at different concentration of catalyst.
Novel Polyelectrolyte Carboxymethyl Konjac Glucomannan–Chitosan Nanoparticles for Drug Delivery
Authors: Du Jian , Sun Rui , Zhang Sheng , Govender Thirumala , Zhang Li‐Fang , Xiong Cheng‐Dong , Peng Yu‐Xing
Published: April 2004

Summary: Carboxymethyl Konjac Glucomannan–Chitosan (CKGM‐CS) nanoparticles, which are well dispersed and stable in aqueous solution, were spontaneously prepared under very mild conditions by polyelectrolyte complexation. Investigations of the physicochemical properties of these nanoparticles were undertaken. This study showed that the nanoparticulate system driven by complex formation has potential as an advanced drug‐delivery system for water‐soluble drugs.

Preparation mechanism of CS–CKGM nanoparticles.

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Preparation mechanism of CS–CKGM nanoparticles.
Thermosensitive PEGylated Polypeptides
Authors: Cho Jang Young , Sohn Youn Soo , Gutowska Anna , Jeong Byeongmoon
Published: April 2004

Summary: We report a thermosensitive polypeptide consisting of hydrophilic poly(ethylene glycol)s and hydrophobic phenyl alanine ethyl esters. It is soluble in most solvents and undergoes a micelle (radius ≈ 10 nm) to nanoparticle (radius ≈ 100 nm) transition in water as the temperature increases. The transition temperature could be controlled to between 30 and 40 °C by varying the number of poly(ethylene glycol) grafts. This system might be promising for advanced drug delivery.

Measurement of the lower critical solution temperatures of PEG‐PP aqueous solutions (1.0 wt.‐%).

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Measurement of the lower critical solution temperatures of PEG‐PP aqueous solutions (1.0 wt.‐%).
Nanostructured Crosslinkable Micropatterns by Amphiphilic Dendrimer Stamping
Authors: Kohli Neeraj , Dvornic Petar R. , Kaganove Steven N. , Worden Robert M. , Lee Ilsoon
Published: April 2004

Summary: Microcontact printing was used to deposit stable, nanostructured, amphiphilic and crosslinkable patterns of poly(amidoamine organosilicon) (PAMAMOS)‐dimethoxymethylsilyl (DMOMS) dendrimer multilayers onto silicon wafers, glass, and polyelectrolyte multilayers. The effects of dendrimer ink concentration, contact time, and inking method, on the thickness, uniformity, and stability of the resulting patterns were studied using optical microscopy, fluorescence microscopy, atomic force microscopy (AFM), and contact‐angle analysis. Microarrayed dendrimer film thickness was found to be controllable by conditions used during spin self‐assembly.

Optical micrograph of the circular patterns, obtained from a 0.5% PAMAMOS dendrimer solution, on a glass substrate.

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Optical micrograph of the circular patterns, obtained from a 0.5% PAMAMOS dendrimer solution, on a glass substrate.
Transient blepharospasm secondary to unilateral striatal infarction
Authors: Grandas Francisco , López‐Manzanares Lydia , Traba Alfredo
Published: April 2004

We report on a patient who presented a transient eyelid motor disorder characterized by bilateral reflex blepharospasm as the main clinical manifestation of a right‐sided striatal infarction. This case emphasizes the role of the nondominant striatum in the pathophysiology of eyelid motor abnormalities. © 2004 Movement Disorder Society
Anxiety in musicians with focal dystonia and those with chronic pain
Authors: Jabusch Hans‐Christian , Müller Sandra V. , Altenmüller Eckart
Published: April 2004

Psychological conditions were studied in 20 musicians with focal dystonia and compared with 20 musicians with chronic pain and 30 healthy musicians using the Freiburg Personality Inventory and the Questionnaire for Competence and Control Orientations. Additional questionnaires focused on perfectionism and anxiety particularly with regard to the dynamics of these psychological features. Musicians with focal dystonia and those with chronic pain more often displayed anxiety than controls. In both patient groups, anxiety was present before onset of the playing‐related disorder. Dystonic musicians additionally showed higher levels of perfectionism than controls, which was not observed in musicians with chronic pain. © 2004 Movement Disorder Society
Elucidation of the structures of 3‐alkylthio‐, 3‐benzylthio‐, 2‐arylthio‐ and 2‐heteroarylthio‐N1‐(1,3‐dimethylbutyl)‐N4‐phenyl‐1,4‐phenylenediamines by one‐ and two‐dimensional NMR spectroscopy
Authors: Katritzky Alan R. , Akhmedov Novruz G. , Abdel‐Fattah Ashraf A. A. , Wang Mingyi , Rostek Charles J. , Maender Otto W.
Published: April 2004

Nucleophilic addition of alkyl‐ and benzylthiols to benzoquinone diimine (1) gave the corresponding 3‐alkylthio‐ or 3‐benzylthio‐1,4‐phenylenediamines (2–5). However, addition of aryl‐ or heteroarylthiols to 1 formed 2‐arylthio‐ or 2‐heteroarylthio‐1,4‐phenylenediamines (6–14). The structures of 2–14, obtained in 55–91% yields, were confirmed in CDCl3 or DMSO‐d6 solution using 1D (NOE difference, coupled 13C NMR spectra, APT and DEPT) and 2D NMR techniques [DQCOSY, NOESY, HETCOR and heteronuclear multiple bond coherence (HMBC)] that resulted in unambiguous proton and carbon NMR resonance assignments. The substituent‐induced 13C NMR chemical shift differences were calculated in 2–14 relative to carbon atoms in the model compound N1‐(1,3‐dimethylbutyl)‐N4‐phenyl‐1,4‐phenylenediamine (DMBPPD) (15) (a reduced form of benzoquinone diimine). Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
NMR and x‐ray conformational study of artemisiifolin and three other related germacranolides
Authors: Jimeno María L. , Apreda‐Rojas María del Carmen , Cano Félix H. , Rodríguez Benjamín
Published: April 2004

From an acetone extract of Staehelina dubia, large quantities of the previously known germacranolide artemisiifolin were isolated. The conformations of the 10‐membered germacra‐1(10)E,4Z‐diene ring system of this compound and those of its derivatives 11,13‐dihydroartemisiifolin, isabelin and 6α‐hydroxy‐15‐oxogermacra‐1(10)E,4Z,11(13)‐trien‐12,8α‐olide were studied by NMR spectroscopic methods. Low‐energy conformations were obtained by quantum mechanical calculations. An x‐ray diffraction analysis of artemisiifolin established that, in the crystalline state, it possesses a unique conformation that corresponds to the majority one existing in acetone‐d6 solution. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Combined ab initio computational and experimental multinuclear solid‐state magnetic resonance study of phenylphosphonic acid
Authors: Gervais Christel , Profeta Mickaël , Lafond Vincent , Bonhomme Christian , Azaïs Thierry , Mutin Hubert , Pickard Chris J. , Mauri Francesco , Babonneau Florence
Published: April 2004

1H, 13C, 17O and 31P NMR parameters, including chemical shift tensors and quadrupolar parameters for 17O, were calculated for phenylphosphonic acid, C6H5PO(OH)2, under periodic boundary conditions. The results are in very good agreement with experimental data and permit the unambiguous assignment of all the sites present in the structure. In particular, the 17O NMR parameters of the PO and P—OH environments were precisely determined, which should help in the characterization of the bonding mode of phosphonate molecules in hybrid solids. Moreover, the effect of intermolecular interactions on the NMR parameters were investigated by comparing the results of the calculations in the crystal and in an isolated molecule of phenylphosphonic acid. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
1H chemical shifts in NMR. Part 20 — Anisotropic and steric effects in halogen substituent chemical shifts (SCS), a modelling and ab initio investigation
Authors: Abraham Raymond J. , Mobli Mehdi , Smith Richard J.
Published: April 2004

The 1H NMR spectra of 1‐halonaphthalenes were recorded and assigned. These data together with the known 1H chemical shifts of the halobenzenes and of H‐5 in 4‐halophenanthrenes were used to investigate different models of halogen SCS using the CHARGE program. Good agreement was obtained with the observed shifts for the fluoro compounds, but a new model which included the anisotropy of the C—X bond (X = Cl, Br, I) and steric and electric field effects was required to give an accurate description of the observed chemical shifts for the other halogens. A previous observation of an anomalous 1H SCS on the meta protons in halobenzenes was further investigated using the 1‐halonaphthalenes plus the observed 1H shifts of a number of 2‐substituted bromobenzenes. The meta SCS of the bromo substituent in the bromobenzenes was only observed on H‐5. When a substituent was attached to C‐2, H‐3 showed no appreciable effect. This remarkable effect was investigated by CHARGE and GIAO calculations and shown to be due to the π‐electron system. It was reproduced in CHARGE as a γ effect from the C—X carbon atom. The observed 1H chemical shifts in the above compounds were compared with those calculated by CHARGE, the GIAO technique and by the ACD database program. The recommended ab initio basis set for the iodo compounds (Lan12DZ) gave very poor calculated shifts, which suggests that 1H chemical shifts of fourth‐row atoms when calculated with the GIAO technique should be viewed with caution. In contrast, the recommended 6–31G** basis set with the B3LYP technique in the Gaussian98 program gave calculated values in reasonable agreement with the observed data, as did the ACD package. These different prediction methods were compared by pie charts, scatter plots and r.m.s. errors and the CHARGE program was shown to be more accurate for the compounds considered here than the other two methods. The different philosophies of these programs are discussed together with the results obtained. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Softening, localization and stabilization: capture of discontinuous solutions in J2 plasticity
Authors: Cervera M. , Chiumenti M. , Agelet de Saracibar C.
Published: April 2004

This paper exploits the concept of stabilization techniques to improve the behaviour of mixed linear/linear simplicial elements (triangles and tetrahedra) in incompressible or nearly incompressible situations. Elasto‐J2‐plastic constitutive behaviour has been considered with linear and exponential softening. Two different stabilization methods are used to attain global stability of the corresponding discrete finite element formulation. Implementation and computational aspects are also discussed, showing that a robust application of the proposed formulation is feasible. Numerical examples show that the formulation derived is free of volumetric locking and spurious oscillations of the pressure. The results obtained do not suffer from spurious mesh‐size or mesh‐bias dependence, comparing very favourably with those obtained with the standard, non‐stabilized, approaches. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Differential responsiveness among “high risk” pediatric brain tumors in a pilot study of dose‐intensive induction chemotherapy
Authors: Jennings Mark T. , Cmelak Anthony , Johnson Mahlon D. , Moots Paul L. , Pais Ray , Shyr Yu
Published: April 2004

Background

These factors have been predictive for progressive disease on therapy (PDOT) among pediatric brain tumors: >1.5 cm2 unresectable tumor, glioblastoma, supratentorial primitive neuroectodermal tumor, and metastatic medulloblastoma (MBL). This pilot study sought to correlate cytoreductive response with progression free survival.

Procedures

Four courses of cisplatinum, cyclophosphamide, etoposide, and vincristine preceded hyperfractionated radiotherapy (RT). Maintenance chemotherapy consisted of eight cycles of carboplatin, etoposide, and vincristine. Biopsy specimens were immunohistochemically studied for labeling index, hypoxia, and multidrug resistance proteins.

Results

Twenty newly diagnosed patients [nine primitive neuroectodermal tumors/MBL, one choroid plexus carcinoma, eight malignant gliomas, and two anaplastic ependymomas] were treated. Ten patients, who required neuraxis irradiation, constituted the “PNET” group. These demonstrated five complete and one partial response (PR), with an estimated median progression free survival of 44 months and median survival in excess of 53 months. Patients treated with involved field irradiation were designated the “Glioma” group. Induction chemotherapy produced partial and minor responses (MRs) among 5/10. Their estimated median progression free survival was 6.9 months (P = 0.035 relative to the PNET) with a median survival of 10.7 months (P = 0.04). Age, labeling index, the presence of hypoxia, and Pgp/MDR1 expression failed to discriminate between the two groups.

Conclusions

This induction regimen produced a cytoreductive response in 6/10 and achieved a significant improvement in progression free survival among 7/10 in the PNET group. Unfortunately, responses among Glioma patients did not translate into durable control. Expression of the biologic factors was similar between both groups and did not correlate with diagnosis or response. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Congenital tuberculosis requiring extracorporeal membrane oxygenation
Authors: Weisoly David L. , Khan Amir M. , Elidemir Okan , Smith Kim Connelly
Published: April 2004

We describe a 6‐week‐old infant with congenital tuberculosis with cardiorespiratory failure. She was successfully treated with ECMO initiated after worsening hypoxemia despite mechanical ventilation. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2004; 37:470–473. © 2004 Wiely‐Liss, Inc.
Symptomatic spontaneous pneumothorax in term newborn infants
Authors: Al Tawil Khalil , Abu‐Ekteish Faisal M. , Tamimi Omar , Al Hathal Muneef M. , Al Hathlol Khalid , Abu Laimun Bdeir
Published: April 2004

The association between congenital major urinary tract anomalies (CMUTA) and spontaneous pneumothorax in term newborn infants (SPTNI) is controversial. We conducted a case‐control study to test the hypothesis that SPTNI is associated with CMUTA. We compared 80 term infants with spontaneous pneumothorax to 80 healthy control infants. We recorded risk factors, clinical course, therapy, and outcome. Only 1 infant of 60 infants (1.7%) had CMUTA with SPTNI, as revealed by renal ultrasound studies. This is comparable to the 1.4% rate reported for CMUTA in healthy newborn infants by Steinhart et al. ([1988] Pediatrics 82:609–614). SPTNI were significantly more likely in males with higher birth weights and with vacuum delivery. Sixty‐seven (84%) infants with SPTNI had follow‐up for a mean and median of 46.4 and 39 months, respectively (range, 1–126 months), without manifesting any renal or pulmonary complications. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2004; 37:443–446. © 2004 Wiely‐Liss, Inc.
Standardized procedure for measurement of nasal potential difference: An outcome measure in multicenter cystic fibrosis clinical trials
Authors: Standaert Thomas A. , Boitano Louis , Emerson Julia , Milgram Laura J.H. , Konstan Michael W. , Hunter Janice , Berclaz Pierre‐Yves , Brass Lois , Zeitlin Pamela L. , Hammond Keith , Davies Zoe , Foy Carla , Noone Peadar G. , Knowles Michael R.
Published: April 2004

Patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) can be discriminated from healthy subjects by measurement of the nasal potential difference, which has become a useful outcome measure for therapies directed toward correcting defective electrolyte transport in CF. A standard operating procedure was developed by a CF Foundation clinical trials network, to be followed by all sites performing collaborative studies. Key variables in the measurement included type of voltmeter, exploring probe, reference electrodes, and solutions used to assess both sodium transport and chloride conductance. Eight sites submitted data on 3–8 normal and 4–5 CF subjects. Baseline voltage, an index of sodium transport, was −18.2 ± 8.3 mV (mean ± SD) for normals, and −45.3 ± 11.4 mV for CF patients. There was no CFTR‐mediated chloride secretion in CF subjects, as evidenced by the lack of response to perfusion with zero chloride + beta agonist solutions (+3.2 ± 3.5 mV) vs. that in normals (−23.7 ± 10.2 mV). The standardized nasal potential difference measurement minimizes variability between operators and study sites. Valid and consistent results can be attained with trained operators and attention to technical details. These data demonstrate the procedure to be sufficient for multicenter studies in the CF Foundation network. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2004; 37:385–392. © 2004 Wiely‐Liss, Inc.
Asthma prevalence in European, Maori, and Pacific children in New Zealand: ISAAC study
Authors: Pattemore Philip K. , Ellison‐Loschmann Lis , Asher M. Innes , Barry David M.J. , Clayton Tadd O. , Crane Julian , D'Souza Wendyl J. , Ellwood Philippa , Ford Rodney P.K. , Mackay Richard J. , Mitchell Edwin A. , Moyes Christoper , Pearce Neil , Stewart Alistair W.
Published: April 2004

The International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood (ISAAC) demonstrated that the highest prevalence of asthma in the world is in English‐speaking countries, including New Zealand. In this paper, we compare asthma symptom prevalence in the three major ethnic groups (Maori, Pacific, and European) in the six participating centers in New Zealand. Hospital admission rates for asthma are higher among Maori and Pacific children compared to European children. The working hypothesis was that there were important differences in prevalence of asthma symptoms or diagnosis between ethnic groups which might explain these observed differences in asthma morbidity. In each center in 1992–1993, we sampled approximately 3,000 children at each of the age brackets 6–7 years and 13–14 years. There were 37,592 participants. Maori children had higher rates of diagnosed asthma and reported asthma symptoms than Pacific children in both age groups (diagnosed asthma in 6–7‐year‐olds: Maori, 31.7%; Pacific, 21.2%; 95% confidence interval on difference (CID), 7.2, 13.8; P < 0.001; 13–14‐year‐olds: Maori, 24.7%; Pacific, 19.2%; CID 2.5, 8.5; P < 0.001; recent wheeze in 6–7‐year‐olds: Maori, 27.6%; Pacific, 22.0%; CID, 2.6, 8.6; P < 0.001; 13–14‐year‐olds: Maori, 30.8%; Pacific, 21.1%; CID, 4.8, 14.5; P < 0.001;). European children had rates intermediate between those of Maori and Pacific children (6–7‐year‐olds) or similar to those of Maori children (13–14‐year‐olds), but had the lowest prevalence of night waking with wheeze in both age groups (e.g., 6–7‐year‐olds: European, 2.6%; Maori, 5.8%; Pacific, 5.7%; European‐Maori CID: −4.2, −2.2, P < 0.001; European‐Pacific CID: −4.7, −1.7, P < 0.001; Maori‐Pacific CID: −1.7, 1.8, P = 1.0). The pattern of differences closely resembled that in a 1985 Auckland study, despite a 1.5–1.7‐fold overall increase in prevalence. In conclusion, there are important differences in asthma prevalence among Maori, Pacific, and European children. These differences are small compared to worldwide variation, but their pattern is stable over time. The higher rate of severe asthma symptoms that Maori and Pacific children report may be one reason for the increased asthma morbidity in these groups. Further studies are needed to determine the reasons for these apparent differences in asthma severity. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2004; 37:433–442. © 2004 Wiely‐Liss, Inc.
Antibody response to Pseudomonas aeruginosa in cystic fibrosis patients: A marker of therapeutic success?—A 30‐year Cohort study of survival in Danish CF patients after onset of chronic P. aeruginosa lung infection
Authors: Johansen Helle Krogh , Nørregaard Lena , Gøtzsche Peter C. , Pressler Tacjana , Koch Christian , Høiby Niels
Published: April 2004

We studied the effects of increasingly intensive treatment regimens on anti‐pseudomonal antibody response and survival in five successive cohorts of a total of 157 Danish cystic fibrosis patients after they had acquired chronic P. aeruginosa lung infection. The time periods were 1971–1975 (N = 21), 1976–1980 (N = 64), 1981–1986 (N = 27), 1987–1993 (N = 26), and 1994–2000 (N = 19). During this 30‐year period, we introduced elective 2‐week courses of chemotherapy every third month in all chronically infected patients, early aggressive treatment with inhalation of colistin and oral ciprofloxacin for 3 months whenever P. aeruginosa was cultured in sputum from noncolonized patients, and inhalation of recombinant human dornase alfa. There was a significant correlation between the calendar year when chronic P. aeruginosa infection was acquired and the subsequent increase in the level of precipitins (P < 0.00001). The median number of precipitins increased by 5 per year in the oldest calendar year cohort, and 1 per year in the youngest. The median age of onset of chronic P. aeruginosa increased from 9.3 years from 1981–1986 to 13.8 years from 1987–2000. Survival after acquisition of chronic P. aeruginosa lung infection improved with time (P = 0.008). Our study shows that CF patients who are treated intensively have lower antibody responses and longer survival after acquisition of chronic P. aeruginosa lung infection. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2004; 37:427–432. © 2004 Wiely‐Liss, Inc.