bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The level of cadherin‐6 mRNA in peripheral blood is associated with the site of metastasis and with the subsequent occurrence of metastases in renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Shimazui Toru , Yoshikawa Kazuhiro , Uemura Hirotsugu , Hirao Yoshihiko , Saga Shinsuke , Akaza Hideyuki
Published: July 2004

BACKGROUND

To evaluate the significance of the presence of circulating renal cell carcinoma (RCC) cells in the development of metastases, the authors extended a previous study to quantify cadherin‐6 mRNA levels in association with the pattern of metastasis.

METHODS

Cadherin‐6 mRNA levels were measured in peripheral blood samples from 66 patients with RCC, including 55 patients who had newly diagnosed RCC (43 without metastases and 12 with metastases) and 11 patients who had recurrent RCC. For quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis, a cutoff value was determined in blood samples from 25 healthy volunteers and was verified in samples from 5 healthy controls and from 10 patients who had other malignancies. The correlation between the site of metastases and the cadherin‐6 mRNA level was analyzed, and a follow‐up study (median, 39 months) to track subsequent metastases was performed after patients underwent nephrectomy.

RESULTS

Cadherin‐6 was found in 69.9% of patients with metastases and in 34.9% of patients without apparent metastases (P = 0.0099). In the group of patients with recurrent RCC, patients who had only pulmonary metastases had a significantly lower positivity rate (25.0%) compared with patients who had distant metastases (85.7%; P = 0.044). Among 43 patients with newly diagnosed RCC, 5 of 15 patients who were positive for cadherin‐6 had metastases after nephrectomy, whereas only 2 of the 28 patients with negative cadherin‐6 status had recurrent disease (P = 0.0398). In addition, the recurrence‐free survival of patients who were positive for cadherin‐6 was poorer compared with the survival of patients who were negative for cadherin‐6 (P = 0.062).

CONCLUSIONS

The quantification of cadherin‐6 mRNA in peripheral blood may be a significant predictive marker for current and future metastases. However, subsequent metastases did not always correlate with levels of cadherin‐6 mRNA. This may have been due either to the small numbers of circulating tumor cells or to the low levels cadherin‐6 mRNA in circulating tumor cells. Cancer 2004. © 2004 American Cancer Society.
Squamous cell carcinoma of the penis
Authors: Rippentrop Jonathan M. , Joslyn Sue A. , Konety Badrinath R.
Published: July 2004

BACKGROUND

Penile carcinoma is uncommon. Therefore, obtaining meaningful epidemiologic data requires analysis of large, multisource databases. The authors examined the association between different demographic variables and the prevalence, presentation, and survival of patients with penile squamous cell carcinoma in the National Cancer Institute's Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database.

METHODS

The SEER database represents 12% of the U.S. population. The database included 1605 patients with a diagnosis of penile squamous cell carcinoma between 1973 and 1998. The variables analyzed were age, race, marital status, stage at presentation, type of surgery, performance of lymphadenectomy, and disease‐specific survival.

RESULTS

Of 1605 patients, 37% presented with carcinoma in situ (CIS), 39% with localized disease, 13% with regional disease, 2.3% with distant disease, and 7.9% of the patients were unstaged. The percentage of patients presenting with CIS and localized disease increased and decreased yearly, respectively. African Americans represented 9.9% of the population and tended to present at a younger age and with a higher stage of disease, and their cancer‐specific survival was shorter in all stages. However, these associations were statistically significant only for men with regional disease. Marital status was documented for 1394 patients (87%). The majority (84%) had a history of marriage and presented at an earlier stage of disease and had higher disease‐specific survival in the localized (P = 0.0002) and regional stages (P = 0.0010) of disease.

CONCLUSIONS

The diagnosis of penile carcinoma significantly reduced survival. African‐American men presented with a higher stage of disease and statistically significant decreased survival, whereas previously or currently married men presented at an earlier stage of disease and sought more aggressive treatment. Cancer 2004. © 2004 American Cancer Society.
Metastatic breast carcinoma confined to bone
Authors: Briasoulis Evangelos , Karavasilis Vasilis , Kostadima Lida , Ignatiadis Michael , Fountzilas George , Pavlidis Nicholas
Published: July 2004

BACKGROUND

The current study was performed to study metastatic breast carcinoma that remains confined to bone.

METHODS

The medical notes of 2514 breast carcinoma patients who were treated in 2 academic units over a 20‐year period were screened and patients who fulfilled the following criteria were selected: 1) clinical manifestation and imaging confirmation of bone metastases, and 2) metastatic disease remaining confined to bone for a minimum of 24 months. Available clinical and pathologic data were recorded and analyzed. The objective of the current study was to describe this clinical entity and investigate possible correlations between clinicopathologic parameters and clinical outcome.

RESULTS

A total of 104 patients (4% of the total screened patient population) fulfilled the study criteria. The majority of patients were postmenopausal, with a median age of 58 years; 44 of the patients were found to have metastases at the time of presentation (M1) and 60 patients developed metastases at a median of 38 months (range, 8–160 months) after surgery for the primary tumor. Metastases remained confined to bone for a median of 50 months. Survival after the diagnosis of bony metastases was 72 months and was similar in the 2 groups (66 months vs. 78 months). Of the patients treated, 80% responded to hormonal therapy, and 76.5% responded to chemotherapy. There was no association noted between survival and tumor grade, anatomic distribution, or disease extension.

CONCLUSIONS

Bone‐confined metastatic breast carcinoma has an indolent clinical course that alleviates the need for vigorous follow‐up and calls into question aggressive therapeutic approaches in these patients. Translational studies are warranted to map the molecular profile, leading to the development of targeted therapies in this group of patients. Cancer 2004. © 2004 American Cancer Society.
Numerical characteristics of a simple finite element formulation for consolidation analysis
Authors: Zhu Guofu , Yin Jian‐Hua , Luk Shun‐tim
Published: July 2004

The spatial oscillation of values in the consolidation analysis when using small time increments has been a common problem for most existing methods. In this paper, the numerical characteristics of a simple finite element formulation for 1‐D consolidation analysis recently proposed by the authors have been examined in detail. This paper proves that the commonly encountered phenomenon of spatial oscillation due to small time increments does not occur in the simple finite element formulation. The criterion of minimum time step used in most existing methods can be eliminated at least for linear situations by using the simple formulation proposed by the authors. Thus, the consolidation analysis can be carried easily for many situations, such as the one involving a relatively impermeable clay layer sandwiched between sandy layers. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
High‐density oligonucleotide array analysis reveals extensive differences between freshly isolated blood and hepatic natural killer cells
Authors: Vermijlen David , Seynaeve Carine , Luo Dianzhong , Kruhøffer Mogens , Eizirik Decio L. , Ørntoft Torben F. , Wisse Eddie
Published: July 2004

Hepatic NK cells are more cytotoxic than blood NK cells against tumor cells. To understand the basis of this difference in cytotoxicity we analyzed RNA derived from freshly isolated rat blood and hepatic NK cells [high‐density (HD) and low‐density subpopulations] by high‐density oligonucleotide arrays (Affymetrix), containing about 9,000 genes and expressed sequence tags. IL‐2‐treated blood NK (A‐NK) cells and IL‐2‐treated hepatic HD cells were used as a reference of NK cell activation. About 150 genes and expressed sequence tags were differentially expressed between hepatic and blood NK cells. Surprisingly, more than half of the increased expressed genes in hepatic NK cells were not increased in A‐NK cells. Differentially expressed genes like the stem cell factor receptor c‐kit and the chemokine receptor CCR5 can contribute to the homing and differentiation of hepatic NK cells in the liver sinusoids. Several of the differentially expressed genes can possibly contribute to the enhanced cytotoxic activity of hepatic NK cells: cell membrane receptors like NKG2D, NKG2C, CD94, ecto‐ATPase; signaling molecules like phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase; granule‐associated effector molecules like granzymes and defensin NP3. Moreover, it appears that redirection of cytotoxic granules and increase in intracellular Ca2+ are convergence points of several of these genes.
Differences between CD8+ T cells in lupus‐prone (NZB × NZW) F1 mice and healthy (BALB/c × NZW) F1 mice may influence autoimmunity in the lupus model
Authors: Karpouzas George A. , La Cava Antonio , Ebling Fanny M. , Singh Ram Raj , Hahn Bevra H.
Published: July 2004

Immunization with portions of a murine antibody to DNA induced Ig peptide‐reactive peripheral CD8+ inhibitory T (Ti) cells in non‐autoimmune (BALB/c × NZW) F1 (CWF1) mice. Those Ti suppressed in vitro production of IgG anti‐DNA by lymphocytes from MHC‐matched, lupus‐prone (NZB × NZW) F1 (BWF1) mice, primarily via secretion of transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β). However, splenic CD8+ cells from immunized BWF1 mice failed to suppress anti‐DNA. Therefore, BWF1 mice were studied for defects in peripheral CD8+ T cells. The potential to suppress autoimmunity mediated by activated CD4+ helper T and B cells in BWF1 mice was assessed. As BWF1 mice aged, peripheral CD8+ T cells expanded little; fewer than 10% displayed surface markers of activation and memory. In contrast, quantities of splenic CD4+ T and B cells increased; high proportions displayed activation/memory markers. In old compared to young BWF1 mice, splenic cell secretion of two cytokines required for generation of CD8+ T effectors, IL‐2 and TGF‐β, was decreased. Immunizing BWF1 mice activated peptide‐reactive CD8+ T cells, but their number was decreased compared to young BWF1 or old normal mice. While peptide‐reactive splenic CD8+ T cells from immunized BWF1 mice did not survive in short‐term cultures, similar CD8+ T cell lines from immunized CWF1 mice expanded and on transfer into BWF1 mice delayed autoimmunity and prolonged survival. Therefore, CD8+ T cells in old BWF1 mice are impaired in expansion, acquisition of memory, secretion of cytokine, and suppression of autoimmunity. Understanding these defects might identify targets for therapy in systemic lupus erythematosus.
Spectroscopic Studies of Europium(III) and Gadolinium(III) Tris‐β‐diketonate Complexes with Diazabutadiene Ligands
Authors: Fernandes José A. , Ferreira Rute A. Sá , Pillinger Martyn , Carlos Luís D. , Gonçalves Isabel S. , Ribeiro‐Claro Paulo J. A.
Published: July 2004

Adducts of the type Ln(NTA)3·L [Ln = Eu, Gd; NTA = 1‐(2‐naphthoyl)‐3,3,3‐trifluoroacetonate; L = 1,4‐diaza‐1,3‐butadiene RN=CHCH=NR (R = p‐tolyl, o‐tolyl)] were prepared by treatment of Ln(NTA)3·2H2O with one equivalent of the chelating N−N ligand. The mixed ligand complexes were characterised by elemental analysis, thermogravimetric analysis, IR and Raman spectroscopy, and photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy. Ab initio calculations were carried out in order to predict coordination geometries and also to interpret the vibrational spectra. For the europium(III) compounds, new Raman‐active bands at approximately 440 and 479 cm−1 are tentatively assigned to (νEu−N)sym and (νEu−N)as modes, respectively. A second band at 1185 cm−1 is associated with the symmetric stretching of the N−C(ring) and C−C (DAB) bonds, and is shifted about 20 cm−1 to a higher wavenumber relative to the corresponding band for the free ligand. The room‐temperature PL spectra of the two Eu complexes are composed of the typical Eu3+ red emission, assigned to transitions between the first excited state (5D0) and the ground multiplet (7F0−4). Based on the room‐temperature emission spectra and lifetime measurements, the quantum efficiencies of the 5D0 Eu3+ excited state were estimated and found to be quite low (e.g. 2−3%). The low efficiencies are attributed to the presence of thermally activated nonradiative channels involving ligand‐to‐metal charge‐transfer (LMCT) states. Indeed, a low‐lying LMCT band was detected for the Eu complex containing the ligand p‐tolyl‐DAB by comparison of the room‐temperature diffuse reflectance spectrum for this complex with that of the corresponding Gd analogue. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2004)
1,2,4,5‐Benzenetetracarboxylic Acid and 4,4′‐Bipyridine as Ligands in Designing Low‐Dimensional Coordination Polymers
Authors: Ruiz‐Pérez Catalina , Lorenzo‐Luis Pablo , Hernández‐Molina María , Laz M. Milagros , Delgado Fernando S. , Gili Pedro , Julve Miguel
Published: July 2004

The combined use of 1,2,4,5‐benzenetetracarboxylic acid (H4bta) and 4,4′‐bipyridine (bpy) as ligands with MnII and CoII ions afforded two polymeric compounds with the formulae [Mn(Hbta)(Hbpy)(H2O)2] (1) and [H2bpy][Co(bta)(bpy)(H2O)2] (2). 1 and 2 were prepared under hydrothermal conditions (145 °C, 3 h) and characterized by elemental analysis, IR spectroscopy, TG‐DTA analysis and single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction methods. 1 exhibits a novel double chain structure growing along the b axis where the manganese atoms are linked by tris‐monodentate Hbta3− ligands. The values of the manganese···manganese intrachain separations are 7.627(2) Å [Mn(1)···Mn(1c); c = −x + 1/2, y − 1/2, −z] and 9.274(4) Å [Mn(1)···Mn(1d); d = x, y + 1, −z]. Adjacent double chains in 1 are further linked through hydrogen bonds between the NH fragment of the Hbpy+ cation and one of the carboxylate groups of the Hbta3− anion along the a axis, resulting in a sheetlike structure. 2 exhibits a rectangular grid arrangement of cobalt atoms bridged by bis‐monodentate bta4− and bpy ligands in the bc plane, the cobalt···cobalt separations across them being 6.228(2) and 10.074 (2) Å, respectively. The metal atoms in 1 and 2 are six‐coordinate with two water molecules in trans positions (1 and 2), three (1)/two (2) carboxylate oxygen atoms and one (1)/two (2) pyridyl nitrogen atoms forming a distorted octahedral environment. The varying nature of the divalent metal ions [Mn 1 and Co 2] along with the differing degrees of protonation of the tetracaboxylate [Hbta3− 1 and bta4− 2] and bipyridyl [Hbpy+ 1 and bpy and H2bpy2+ 2] species account for the structural differences between 1 and 2. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2004)
“The smallest grain in the balance”
Authors: Weiss Kenneth M.
Published: July 2004

Darwin viewed evolution as a continuous force perfectly sensitive to variation. The nearly‐neutral theory of evolution says something quite different. Both may be right.
Grid‐free surface vorticity method applied to flow induced vibration of flexible cylinders
Authors: Lam K. , Jiang G. D. , Liu Y. , So R. M. C.
Published: July 2004

In order to study cross flow induced vibration of heat exchanger tube bundles, a new fluid–structure interaction model based on surface vorticity method is proposed. With this model, the vibration of a flexible cylinder is simulated at Re=2.67 × 104, the computational results of the cylinder response, the fluid force, the vibration frequency, and the vorticity map are presented. The numerical results reproduce the amplitude‐limiting and non‐linear (lock‐in) characteristics of flow‐induced vibration. The maximum vibration amplitude as well as its corresponding lock‐in frequency is in good agreement with experimental results. The amplitude of vibration can be as high as 0.88D for the case investigated. As vibration amplitude increases, the amplitude of the lift force also increases. With enhancement of vibration amplitude, the vortex pattern in the near wake changes significantly. This fluid–structure interaction model is further applied to simulate flow‐induced vibration of two tandem cylinders and two side‐by‐side cylinders at similar Reynolds number. Promising and reasonable results and predictions are obtained. It is hopeful that with this relatively simple and computer time saving method, flow induced vibration of a large number of flexible tube bundles can be successfully simulated. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of Deep Temperature Cycling on Nafion® 112 Membranes and Membrane Electrode Assemblies
Authors: McDonald R.C. , Mittelsteadt C.K. , Thompson E.L.
Published: July 2004

A study was conducted to understand the physical and chemical changes in fuel cell membranes that result from Freeze/Thaw (F/T) cycling which might occur in electric vehicles. Nafion™ membranes and membrane electrode assemblies (MEA) were subjected to 385 temperature cycles between +80 °C and –40 °C over a period of three months to examine the effects on key properties. These studies were done on both compressed and uncompressed materials in the un‐humidified state. Although no catastrophic failures were seen, the analytical results shed some light on the relationship of temperature cycling to membrane structure, water management, ionic conductivity, gas permeability and mechanical strength. Changes in water swelling behavior and dry densities were noted and the effect on ionic conductivity and cell performance was examined. The impact on catalyst activity and structural integrity of MEAs was evaluated electrochemically.
Portable Size DMFC‐Stack
Authors: Oedegaard A. , Hufschmidt S. , Wilmshoefer R. , Hebling C.
Published: July 2004

A small, low temperature, direct methanol fuel cell stack for portable applications has been developed. Several flow field designs were investigated with respect to stable operation and high performance. Due to carbon dioxide and water production on the anode and cathode, respectively, methanol and oxygen access to the electrodes is hindered. During single cell operation the effect of both carbon dioxide evolution and water production on the current output was observed. The difference between parallel and serial feeding of both fuel and oxidant to the DMFC stack was also investigated. It was found that it is very important to remove reaction products from the active cell surface in order to ensure stable stack operation at low temperatures. The maximal power realised with the 12‐cell direct methanol fuel cell stack was 30 W.
Assessment of Fuel‐Cell‐Based Passenger Cars
Authors: Grube T. , Höhlein B. , Menzer R.
Published: July 2004

Highly efficient energy conversion systems with fuel cells for vehicles, as well as for stationary and portable applications, are currently being discussed all over the world. Fuel cell technology is expected to help reduce primary energy demand and emissions of limited and climate‐relevant pollutants. The high flexibility of fuel cell systems with respect to energy carriers opens up possibilities of modifying the energy sector in the long term. Introducing new fuels based on low‐carbon, or in the long term carbon‐free, energy carriers can contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions as well as locally and regionally active atmospheric pollutants. The use of hydrogen as feed gas for fuel cells on the basis of it being a non‐fossil, renewable energy, leads to special benefits with respect to conserving resources and climate protection, but at present still represents a medium‐ to long‐term prospect. A major milestone on the road to market success for all energy conversion systems with fuel cells is the reduction of costs. The definition of the „appropriate” fuel represents a serious obstacle to the market introduction of fuel‐cell‐powered vehicles.

Presenting data from a well‐to‐wheel analysis of various vehicle fuel systems at FZJ this article aims to discuss the potential benefits of future vehicle concepts with fuel cells in terms of primary energy use and greenhouse gas emissions. Results from a comparison of international studies on this subject will be used to identify relevant assumptions that lead to different answers in the evaluation process.
Structural and Physical Properties of GDL and GDL/BPP Combinations and their Influence on PEMFC Performance
Authors: Wilde P.M. , Mändle M. , Murata M. , Berg N.
Published: July 2004

The change in the structural and physical properties of the components assembled in a fuel cell stack, when being compressed, is important for performance evaluation. The physical properties of Gas Diffusion Layer (GDL) materials, such as thickness, through plane resistivity and gas permeability and pore size data are presented as a function of compressive force. The data obtained are correlated with fuel cell performance data. Beyond the materials and components specific properties the behaviour of combinations of BPP and GDL materials, which are manufactured by SGL Technologies GmbH, are evaluated and presented. Through plane resistance of a GDL‐BPP‐GDL sandwich is evaluated for varied compression forces and materials permutations.
MEA Segmentation using LASER Ablation
Authors: Schmitz A. , Wagner S. , Hahn R. , Weil A. , Schneiderlöchner E. , Tranitz M. , Hebling C.
Published: July 2004

In a flat design, several serial connected single cells are arranged side by side in a plane. Sealing problems can be reduced by using one single MEA for all cells. This MEA must consist of segments of catalyst coated area. In order to avoid short circuits between serial interconnected cells their catalyst segments have to be electrically insulated. The distance between the segments has to be minimised in order to make the most efficient use of the MEA area. By the use of conventional coating technology the distances between electrode areas are in the range of some millimetres. With LASER ablation the distance between the segments can be reduced to less than 200 μm.

Results of removing the catalyst by LASER ablation are analysed by SEM and light microscopy. The electrical resistance between segmented areas is determined with 4‐point probe impedance measurements. The influence of segmentation on cell performance is characterised in a planar serial connected test cell.
Manufacture of Robust Catalyst Layers for the DMFC
Authors: Schonert M. , Jakoby K. , Schlumbohm C. , Glüsen A. , Mergel J. , Stolten D.
Published: July 2004

Catalyst layers for direct methanol fuel cells (DMFC) must possess a complex structure in order to provide protonic and electronic conductivity as well as access to reactants at all reactive sites. This involves a highly porous structure, which is often mechanically instable, especially when mass production processes are utilized. A feasible process should provide a catalyst layer in one coating step and must include relatively fast drying of the catalyst ink.

In the present work, different types of additives are used to provide such an ink. Inorganic particles that are much larger than the catalyst particles provide dimensional stability in the catalyst layer. Depending on their structure and surface, they can also be used to influence the porosity or hydrophobicity of the layers, and thus to optimize performance.

Gel forming polymers are used to adjust the viscosity of the inks and since they also act as a binder, they help to stabilize the catalyst layers. These effects can be obtained by using minimal quantities of polymers, thus avoiding problems such as pore clogging or the deactivation of catalyst surfaces.

As a result, catalyst inks can be adjusted to suit coating techniques such as knife‐coating or screen‐printing. Also, catalyst layers are mechanically stable, thus avoiding long‐term degradation due to crack formation or delamination.
Modular Stack‐Internal Air Humidification Concept‐Verification in a 1 kW Stack
Authors: Santis M. , Schmid D. , Ruge M. , Freunberger S. , Büchi F.N.
Published: July 2004

The analysis of the complete H2/air polymer electrolyte fuel cell system shows that process air humidification is one of the biggest obstacles for a high performance portable system in the kW range. Therefore, a new concept, with passive process air humidification integrated into the stack, has been developed. Humidification in each cell makes the process independent from the number of cells and the operation mode, thus making the concept fully scalable. Without external humidification the system is simpler, smaller, and cheaper. The humidification of the process air is achieved by transfer of product water from the exhaust air, through part of the membrane, to the dry intake air. Tests have shown that cells using the concept of internal humidification and operated with dry air at 70 ° have almost the same performance as when operated with external humidification. A 42‐cell stack with this internal humidification concept was built and integrated into a portable 1 kW power generator system.
How good are the Electrodes we use in PEFC?
Authors: Eikerling M. , Ioselevich A.S. , Kornyshev A.A.
Published: July 2004

Basically, companies and laboratories implement production methods for their electrodes on the basis of experience, technical capabilities and commercial preferences. But how does one know whether they have ended up with the best possible electrode for the components used? What should be the (i) optimal thickness of the catalyst layer? (ii) relative amounts of electronically conducting component (catalyst, with support – if used), electrolyte and pores? (iii) “particle size distributions” in these mesophases? We may be pleased with our MEAs, but could we make them better? The details of excellently working MEA structures are typically not a subject of open discussion, also hardly anyone in the fuel cell business would like to admit that their electrodes could have been made much better. Therefore, we only rarely find (far from systematic) experimental reports on this most important issue. The message of this paper is to illustrate how strongly the MEA morphology could affect the performance and to pave the way for the development of the theory. Full analysis should address the performance at different current densities, which is possible and is partially shown in this paper, but vital trends can be demonstrated on the linear polarization resistance, the signature of electrode performance. The latter is expressed through the minimum number of key parameters characterizing the processes taking place in the MEA. Model expressions of the percolation theory can then be used to approximate the dependence on these parameters. The effects revealed are dramatic. Of course, the corresponding curves will not be reproduced literally in experiments, since these illustrations use crude expressions inspired by the theory of percolation on a regular lattice, whereas the actual mesoscopic architecture of MEA is much more complicated. However, they give us a flavour of reserves that might be released by smart MEA design.
Interdealer trading in futures markets
Authors: Locke Peter R. , Sarajoti Pattarake
Published: July 2004

Trading amongst dealers on the floor of the futures exchange is examined. Since there is only one trading venue, the common floor area, trading between dealers is carried on in the presence of trades involving customer orders as well, offering a unique setting for testing the effect of inventory on dealer pricing. The findings are that these futures floor traders implicitly engage in interdealer trading as an inventory management tool. Interdealer trades are more likely to be position reducing than other trades, at higher costs than offsetting with customers. In addition, the concept of a dealer hierarchy is developed, where some floor traders, who generally are more successful, profit from their trades with other dealers. Furthermore, these more successful traders are more likely to use interdealer trading in position reducing trades, which is consistent with the existence of a dealer hierarchy. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Jrl Fut Mark 24:923–944, 2004
Conditional OLS minimum variance hedge ratios
Authors: Miffre Joëlle
Published: July 2004

The paper presents a new methodology to estimate time dependent minimum variance hedge ratios. The so‐called conditional OLS hedge ratio modifies the static OLS approach to incorporate conditioning information. The ability of the conditional OLS hedge ratio to minimize the risk of a hedged portfolio is compared to conventional static and dynamic approaches, such as the naïve hedge, the roll‐over OLS hedge, and the bivariate GARCH(1,1) model. The paper concludes that, both in‐sample and out‐of‐sample, the conditional OLS hedge ratio reduces the basis risk of an equity portfolio better than the alternatives conventionally used in risk management. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Jrl Fut Mark 24:945–964, 2004
Towards modelling production of clean fuels: sour gas formation in catalytic cracking
Authors: Villafuerte‐Macías Eduardo F , Aguilar Ricardo , Maya‐Yescas Rafael
Published: July 2004

Although one important by‐product of fluidised‐bed catalytic cracking of hydrocarbons is the sour gas (mainly hydrogen sulfide), there are no kinetic models to predict its generation. Moreover, if feedstock sulfur is not directed to sour gas, it will be present in gasoline, cycle oils and coke. These products are used as fuels, which could emit sulfur oxides during their combustion. In order to be able to model production of clean fuels, a kinetic scheme that considers sour gas as unmatched product was developed; meanwhile, the sulfur distribution in cracking products is predicted. Model parameters are validated using industrial operating data. This kinetic scheme is employed to model steady state operation of an industrial catalytic cracking riser and to find operating conditions that diminish the sulfur content in fuels. Copyright © 2004 Society of Chemical Industry
Color Doppler imaging of fibroadenomas of the breast with histopathologic correlation
Authors: Strano Selwyn , Gombos Eva C. , Friedland Orith , Mozes Marta
Published: July 2004

Purpose

This study was conducted to characterize the spatial distribution of blood vessels in breast fibroadenomas.

Methods

We performed a prospective study to map the anatomic distribution of the vessels in 29 fibroadenomas of the breast using color Doppler sonography. We categorized the detected vessels according to their location in or on the fibroadenoma, counted the different types of vessels, and tested for correlations between vessel distributions or numbers and histopathologic findings.

Results

Blood flow was demonstrated in 24/29 (83%) of fibroadenomas. We found 3 vessel types: feeding vessels, which are prominent vessels leading from the surrounding breast tissue into the fibroadenoma; capsular vessels, which are located within the tissue capsule; and segmental vessels, which are located within the fibrous septa of the fibroadenoma. Capsular and segmental vessels were demonstrated in 23/24 (96%) and 24/24 (100%) of the cases, respectively. Feeding vessels were seen in 12/24 (50%) of the cases. Histopathologic analysis revealed the same location and distribution of the vessels as color Doppler imaging. However, there was no correlation between numbers of vessels counted on sonograms and on histopathologic specimens.

Conclusions

Examination of the vascularity demonstrated on color Doppler imaging helps in the diagnosis of benign breast neoplasms such as fibroadenomas. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 32:317–322, 2004
Sonoanatomy of the Achilles tendon insertion in children
Authors: Grechenig Wolfgang , Mayr Johannes M. , Peicha Gernot , Hammerl Randolf , Schatz Bernd , Grechenig Stefan
Published: July 2004

Purpose

The aim of this study was to describe typical age‐related sonographic features of the Achilles tendon and calcaneal apophysis in children, providing a reference for the assessment of heel pathologies during the growth period.

Methods

The calcaneal apophysis and Achilles tendon insertion of 100 children 2 months to 18 years old were examined by high‐frequency gray‐scale and color Doppler sonography along both the longitudinal and transverse planes. The thicknesses of the apophyseal cartilage at the calcaneal tuberosity and of the Achilles tendon were measured. Also, the sonographic appearance of the bone‐cartilage interface was studied.

Results

In children 2 months to 3 years old, the cartilage of the calcaneal tuberosity apophysis was anechoic, with small scattered echoes. In 19 of these 25 children (76%), the echogenic areas contained at least 1 small vessel, visualized on color Doppler sonography. In 15 of 25 children (60%) 4–6 years old, a wavy interface was noted at the junction of the calcaneus and the apophyseal cartilage.

Conclusions

High‐frequency sonography can yield reliable information about the bone‐cartilage interface and the Achilles tendon insertion site at the calcaneal tuberosity in children. The sonographic features of the normal heel described here may contribute to improved assessment of pathologies in this anatomic region. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 32:338–343, 2004
Primary hydatid cyst in the anterior thigh: Sonographic findings
Authors: Koc Zafer , Muhteşem Ağıldere A. , Yalcın Özlem , Pourbagher Aysin , Pourbagher MirAli
Published: July 2004

Hydatid cysts rarely involve the musculoskeletal system. We present the case of a 23‐year‐old man with a primary hydatid cyst between the femur and the quadriceps muscle in his left thigh. No cysts were located in the adjacent femur or quadriceps muscle. Cyst resection with sparing of the surrounding muscles, combined with anthelmintic therapy, was curative. In regions where hydatidosis is endemic, hydatid cysts should be included in the differential diagnosis of any unusual soft‐tissue swelling. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 32:358–360, 2004
Primary peripheral T‐cell lymphoma in subcutaneous tissue: Sonographic findings
Authors: Fujii Yasutomo , Shinozaki Takeshi , Koibuchi Harumi , Ono Tomoko , Omoto Kiyoka , Taniguchi Nobuyuki , Itoh Kouichi
Published: July 2004

We describe the sonographic findings in a case of Lennert's lymphoma, a rare type of peripheral T‐cell lymphoma, involving the subcutaneous tissues of the arm. The sonographic appearance was thought to be more helpful than MRI to establish the diagnosis. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 32:361–364, 2004
Enlargement and hypervascularity of both the epididymis and testis do not exclude involvement with lymphoma or leukemia
Authors: Ishigami Kousei , Yousef‐Zahra Dina M. , Abu‐Yousef Monzer M.
Published: July 2004

We present 3 cases of diffuse infiltration of the testes and epididymides by malignant lymphoma and leukemia. Gray‐scale and color Doppler sonograms showed diffuse hypoechoic enlargement and hypervascularity of the involved testes and epididymides. The authors emphasize that enlargement and hypervascularity of both the epididymis and testis can be caused by lymphomatous/leukemic involvement and is not always indicative of epididymo‐orchitis. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 32:365–369, 2004
Bilateral epidermoid cysts of the testis: Sonographic and MRI findings
Authors: Cittadini Giuseppe , Gauglio Cristina , Pretolesi Fabio , Santacroce Elena , Derchi Lorenzo E.
Published: July 2004

Epidermoid cysts of the testis are rare benign lesions, without malignant potential, that can be managed conservatively with cyst enucleation and testis‐sparing surgery. Bilateral epidermoid cysts in the testes have been reported very infrequently. We report the sonographic and MRI findings in a patient who presented with a palpable nodule in only 1 testis, but in whom sonography showed bilateral lesions. On sonography, the cysts had an internal “onion‐ring” structure; color Doppler signals were absent. On MRI, the cysts had a laminated appearance, with alternating low‐ and high‐signal‐intensity areas on T2‐weighted images. These imaging findings and the negative results of laboratory tests for tumor markers suggested the correct diagnosis, and testis‐sparing surgery could be performed. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 32:370–372, 2004
Pleiotropic effects on mandibular morphology II: Differential epistasis and genetic variation in morphological integration
Authors: Cheverud James M. , Ehrich Thomas H. , Vaughn Ty T. , Koreishi Safina F. , Linsey Robin B. , Pletscher L. Susan
Published: July 2004

The evolution of morphological modularity through the sequestration of pleiotropy to sets of functionally and developmentally related traits requires genetic variation in the relationships between traits. Genetic variation in relationships between traits can result from differential epistasis, where epistatic relationships for pairs of loci are different for different traits. This study maps relationship quantitative trait loci (QTLs), specifically QTLs that affect the relationship between individual mandibular traits and mandible length, across the genome in an F2 intercross of the LG/J and SM/J inbred mouse strains (N = 1045). We discovered 23 relationship QTLs scattered throughout the genome. All mandibular traits were involved in one or more relationship QTL. When multiple traits were affected at a relationship QTL, the traits tended to come from a developmentally restricted region of the mandible, either the muscular processes or the alveolus. About one‐third of the relationship QTLs correspond to previously located trait QTLs affecting the same traits. These results comprise examples of genetic variation necessary for an evolutionary response to selection on the range of pleiotropic effects. J. Exp. Zool. (Mol. Dev. Evol.) 302B:000–000, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Lovastatin modulation of microglial activation via suppression of functional CD40 expression
Authors: Townsend Kirk P. , Shytle Doug R. , Bai Yun , San Nan , Zeng Jin , Freeman Melissa , Mori Takashi , Fernandez Francisco , Morgan David , Sanberg Paul , Tan Jun
Published: July 2004

Recent studies have shown that the 3‐hydroxy‐3‐methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase inhibitors (statins) possess antiinflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, distinct from their action of lowering serum lipid levels. Moreover, results of epidemiological studies suggest that long‐term use of statins is associated with a decreased risk for Alzheimer's disease (AD). Interestingly, lovastatin (one of the most commonly used anticholesterol drugs) treatment of vascular‐derived cells has been reported to antagonize activation of the Janus kinase (JAK)/signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) signaling pathway, and it is well known that the JAK/STAT pathway plays a central role in interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ)‐induced microglial CD40 expression. We and others have previously reported that microglial CD40 expression is significantly induced by IFN‐γ and amyloid‐β (Aβ) peptide. Moreover, it has been shown that CD40 signaling is critically involved in microglia‐related immune responses in the CNS. In this study, we examined the putative role of lovastatin in modulation of CD40 expression and its signaling in cultured microglia. RT‐PCR, Western immunoblotting, and flow cytometry data show that lovastatin suppresses IFN‐γ‐induced CD40 expression. Additionally, lovastatin markedly inhibits IFN‐γ‐induced phosphorylation of JAK/STAT1. Furthermore, lovastatin is able to suppress microglial tumor necrosis factor‐α, interleukin (IL)‐β1 and IL‐6 production promoted either by IFN‐γ or by Aβ peptide challenge in the presence of CD40 cross‐linking. To characterize further lovastatin's effect on microglial function, we examined microglial phagocytic capability following CD40 cross‐linking. Data reveal that lovastatin markedly attenuates CD40‐mediated inhibition of microglial phagocytosis of Aβ. These results provide an insight into the mechanism of the beneficial effects of lovastatin in neurodegenerative disorders, particularly Alzheimer's disease. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Rapid analysis of triterpenic acids by liquid chromatography using porous graphitic carbon and evaporative light scattering detection
Authors: Bérangère Claude , Caussarieu Nathalie , Morin Philippe , Morin‐Allory Luc , Lafosse Michel
Published: July 2004

An original system which uses Porous Graphitic Carbon as support and a mixture of organic solvents as mobile phase is proposed for the analysis of triterpenic acids by liquid chromatography. The separation of betulinic acid, ursolic acid, oleanolic acid, and 18α‐ and 18β‐glycyrrhetinic acids was carried out within a short time and monitored by evaporative light scattering detection as universal detection method. Molecular modelling studies show that the main contribution to the selectivity comes from the electrostatic interaction characterised by the dipole moment of the products.
Mass spectrometric analysis of 1,2,4‐Oxadiazoles and 4,5‐Dihydro‐1,2,4‐Oxadiazoles
Authors: Srivastava Rajendra M.
Published: July 2004

1,2,4‐Oxadiazoles and 4,5‐dihydro‐1,2,4‐oxadiazoles are an interesting class of compounds because of their pharmacological and other properties. Although short descriptions of these compounds under mass spectrometric conditions exist, we thought it worthwhile to write a comprehensive review of this class of compounds. Therefore, this revision deals first with 1,2,4‐oxadiazoles and then 4,5‐dihydro‐1,2,4‐oxadiazoles from 1964 until the year 2002. Much work on these compounds has been described under electron impact conditions and only a little under chemical ionization (CI). © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc., Mass Spec Rev 24:328–346, 2005
Bacterial proteomics and its role in antibacterial drug discovery
Authors: Brötz‐Oesterhelt Heike , Bandow Julia Elisabeth , Labischinski Harald
Published: July 2004

Gene‐expression profiling technologies in general, and proteomic technologies in particular have proven extremely useful to study the physiological response of bacterial cells to various environmental stress conditions. Complex protein toolkits coordinated by sophisticated regulatory networks have evolved to accommodate bacterial survival under ever‐present stress conditions such as varying temperatures, nutrient availability, or antibiotics produced by other microorganisms that compete for habitat. In the last decades, application of man‐made antibacterial agents resulted in additional bacterial exposure to antibiotic stress. Whereas the targeted use of antibiotics has remarkably reduced human suffering from infectious diseases, the ever‐increasing emergence of bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics has led to an urgent need for novel antibiotic strategies. The intent of this review is to present an overview of the major achievements of proteomic approaches to study adaptation networks that are crucial for bacterial survival with a special emphasis on the stress induced by antibiotic treatment. A further focus will be the review of the, so far few, published efforts to exploit the knowledge derived from bacterial proteomic studies directly for the antibacterial drug‐discovery process. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc., Mass Spec Rev 24:549–565, 2005
Maternal chromatin remodeling during maturation and after fertilization in mouse oocytes
Authors: Spinaci Marcella , Seren Eraldo , Mattioli Mauro
Published: July 2004

Immunofluorescence staining with antibodies against acetylated histone H4 and 5‐methylcytosine was carried out to investigate female chromatin remodeling throughout oocyte maturation and chromatin rearrangement involving both male and female genomes after fertilization. Oocyte cytoplasm remodels female chromatin in preparation of the fertilizing event and the subsequent chromatin rearrangement. Histone H4 are in fact progressively deacetylated whereas demethylating enzymes do not seem to be active over this period. The acetylase/deacetylase balance seems to be cell cycle dependent as female chromatin is deacetylated during maturation and reacetylated at telophase II stage both after fertilization and activation. On the contrary, DNA demethylation seems to be strictly selective. It is in fact confined to the remodeling of paternal genome after fertilization of mature oocytes as the ooplasm is not effective in demethylating either paternal chromatin in germinal vesicle breakdown (GVBD) fertilized oocytes or maternal genome of partenogenetically activated oocytes. Surprisingly, we induced maternal chromatin demethylation after fertilization by treating oocytes with a combination of a methyltransferase inhibitor, 5‐azacytidine (5‐AzaC), and a reversible and specific inhibitor of histone deacetylase, trichostatin A (TSA). This treatment likely induces a hyperacetylation of histones (thus favoring the access to demethylating enzymes by opening female chromatin structure) associated with a block of reparative methylation by inhibiting methytransferases. This manipulation of chromatin remodeling may have applications regarding the biological significance of aberrant DNA methylation. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 69: 215–221, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Thyroglobulin type‐1 domain protease inhibitors exhibit specific expression in the cortical ooplasm of vitellogenic rainbow trout oocytes
Authors: Wood Antony W. , Matsumoto Jacqueline , Kraak Glen Van Der
Published: July 2004

The synthesis, uptake, and processing of yolk proteins remain poorly described aspects of oviparous reproductive development. In this study, we report the identification and characterization of two protease inhibitors in rainbow trout ovary whose expression and distribution are directly associated with yolk protein uptake in vitellogenic oocytes. The first transcript, termed “oocyte protease inhibitor‐1” (OPI‐1), is predicted to encode a 9.1 kDa, 87 amino acid protein containing a single thyroglobulin type‐1 (TY) domain, identifying it as a putative TY domain inhibitor. The second transcript, termed OPI‐2, is predicted to encode an 18.3 kDa, 173 amino acid protein with two similar, but not identical, TY domains. Messenger RNA expression of both genes was first detected in ovarian tissues at the onset of vitellogenesis, and persisted throughout the vitellogenic growth phase. We did not detect expression of either gene in previtellogenic ovaries, nor in any somatic tissues examined. Expression of OPI‐1 mRNA was significantly reduced in atretic follicles as compared to healthy vitellogenic follicles, suggesting a downregulation of inhibitor expression during oocyte atresia. Western immunoblot analyses of whole yolk from vitellogenic oocytes revealed the presence of two immunoreactive proteins that corresponded to the predicted sizes of OPI‐1 and OPI‐2. We detected strong crossreactivity of this antiserum with specific vesicles in the cortical ooplasm of vitellogenic oocytes, in regions directly associated with vitellogenin processing. The identification of OPI‐1 and OPI‐2 provides new evidence for the expression of multiple TY domain protease inhibitors likely involved in the regulation of yolk processing during oocyte growth in salmonids. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 69: 205–214, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.