bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Extending the Rule Space Methodology to a Semantically-Rich Domain: Diagnostic Assessment in Architecture
Authors: Katz Irvin R. , Martinez Michael E. , Sheehan Kathleen M. , Tatsuoka Kikumi K.
Published: March 2008

This paper presents a technique for applying the Rule Space methodology of cognitive diagnosis to assessment in a semantically-rich domain. Previous applications of Rule Space—all in simple, well-structured domains—based diagnosis on examinees’ ability to perform individual problem-solving steps. In a complex domain, however, test items might be so different from one another that the problem-solving steps used for one item are unrelated to the steps used to solve another item. The technique presented herein extends Rule Space’s applicability by basing diagnosis on item characteristics that are more abstract than individual problem-solving steps. A cognitive model of problem-solving motivates selection of characteristics in order to maintain the connection between an examinee’s problem-solving skill and his/her diagnosis. To test the extended Rule Space procedure, data were collected from 122 architects of three ability levels (students, architecture interns, and professional architects) on a 22-item test of architectural knowledge. Rule Space provided diagnostic reporting for between 40 and 90% of examinees. The findings support the effectiveness of Rule Space in a complex domain.
Perceived Control and Coping in Women Faced with Activity Restriction due to Osteoarthritis: Relations to Anxious and Depressive Symptoms
Authors: Rivard Vicky , Cappeliez Philippe
Published: March 2008

The study focuses on perceived control and coping strategies regarding activity restriction due to osteoarthritis in a sample of older women. Using a cross-sectional design, it examines how these variables, separately and in combination, predict anxious symptoms and depressive symptoms. Perceived control did not predict anxious symptoms, while approach-type coping strategies did. Perceived control and approach-type coping strategies individually predicted depressive symptoms. Higher perceived control in interaction with avoidant-type coping strategies significantly predicted lower depressive symptoms. Overall, the findings suggest that perceived control and coping strategies with regard to activity restriction relate in different ways to anxious symptoms and to depressive symptoms.
Colonization of recent coniferous versus deciduous forest stands by vascular plants at the local scale
Authors: Wulf Monika , Heinken Thilo
Published: March 2008

Questions: 1. Are there differences among species in their preference for coniferous vs. deciduous forest? 2. Are tree and shrub species better colonizers of recent forest stands than herbaceous species? 3. Do colonization patterns of plant species groups depend on tree species composition?

Location: Three deciduous and one coniferous recent forest areas in Brandenburg, NE Germany.

Methods: In 34 and 21 transects in coniferous and deciduous stands, respectively, we studied the occurrence and percentage cover of vascular plants in a total of 150 plots in ancient stands, 315 in recent stands and 55 at the ecotone. Habitat preference, diaspore weight, generative dispersal potential and clonal extension were used to explain mechanisms of local migration. Regression analysis was conducted to test whether migration distance was related to species’ life‐history traits.

Results: 25 species were significantly associated with ancient stands and ten species were significantly more frequent in recent stands. Tree and shrub species were good colonizers of recent coniferous and deciduous stands. In the coniferous stands, all herbaceous species showed a strong dispersal limitation during colonization, whereas in the deciduous stands generalist species may have survived in the grasslands which were present prior to afforestation.

Conclusions: The fast colonization of recent stands by trees and shrubs can be explained by their effective dispersal via wind and animals. This, and the comparably efficient migration of herbaceous forest specialists into recent coniferous stands, implies that the conversion of coniferous into deciduous stands adjacent to ancient deciduous forests is promising even without planting of trees.
Development of Industrial Catalysts1A list of symbols used in the text is provided at the end of the chapter.
Authors: Gallei Ewald F. , Hesse Michael , Schwab Ekkehard
Published: March 2008

The sections in this article are

Introduction

Types and Properties of Technical Catalysts

Characterization of Technical Catalysts

In‐Situ
Experiments

High‐Throughput Experimentation (
HTE
)

Identification of Technical Catalysts

Production of Technical Catalysts

Conclusions
Electron Microscopy and Diffraction
Authors: Datye Abhaya K. , Hansen Poul Lenvig , Helveg Stig
Published: March 2008

The sections in this article are

Introduction

Imaging

Electron Diffraction

Electron Beam Microanalysis

In SituElectron Microscopy

Summary and Conclusions

Acknowledgments
Ensemble and Ligand Effects in Metal Catalysis
Authors: Sachtler Wolfgang M. H.
Published: March 2008

The sections in this article are

Introduction: Adsorption Sites on Metal Surfaces

Dissociative Chemisorption; Ensemble Requirements

The “Electronic” Ligand Effect

Pure and “Mixed” Ensembles on Binary Alloys

Acknowledgments
Short Contact‐Time Reactors
Authors: Veser Götz
Published: March 2008

The sections in this article are

Introduction

Brief History

Short Contact‐Time Reactions

Hydrogen and Syngas Formation from Methane

Hydrogen and Syngas from Higher Alkanes

Production of Olefins

Production of Oxygenates

Ketenes from Carboxylic Acids

Reaction Mechanisms and Catalysts for
SCTR

Catalysts for Syngas Formation

Syngas Formation: The Reaction Mechanism

Catalysts and Reaction Mechanism for Olefin Production

Catalysts and Reaction Mechanism for Oxygenate Production

Reactor Concepts

Summary and Outlook
Catalytic Membrane Reactors
Authors: Dittmeyer Roland , Caro Jürgen
Published: March 2008

The sections in this article are

Introduction

Types of Membrane Reactor

Catalytic Reactors with Hydrogen‐Selective Membranes

Membrane Types

Organic Polymers

Solid Polymer Electrolytes

Metals

Microporous Membranes

Ceramic Proton Conductors and Cermets

Final Remarks

Selective Removal of Hydrogen

Dehydrogenation

A
Hydrocarbons

B
Alcohols

Water Gas Shift Reaction

Reforming

A
Packed‐Bed Membrane Reformers

B
Fluidized‐Bed Membrane Reformers

C
Microstructured Membrane Reformers

D
Techno‐Economic Evaluation

Selective Supply of Hydrogen

Hydrogenation

Hydroxylation by
In‐Situ
H
2
O
2
Formation

Perspectives

Reactors with Oxygen‐Selective Membranes

Membrane Types

Mixed Oxygen‐Ion‐ and Electron‐Conducting Membranes

Solid Electrolytes for Electrochemical Operation

Membranes for Selective Removal of Oxygenates

Pore Membranes for Non‐Selective Oxygen Feeding

Selective Supply of Oxygen

Production of Pure Oxygen and of Oxygen‐Enriched Air

Partial Oxidation of Methane to Synthesis Gas

Oxidative Dehydrogenation of Light Alkanes to Olefins

Oxidative Coupling of Methane to
C
2
‐Hydrocarbons

Solid Electrolyte Membrane Reactors

Perspectives

Catalytic Reactors with Non‐Selective Membranes

Distributed Feeding through Membranes

Catalytic Membrane Contactors

Gas–Liquid Applications

Liquid–Liquid Applications

Gas–Gas Applications

Perspectives

Design of Catalytic Membrane Modules

Novel Inorganic Membrane Supports

High‐Temperature Membrane Reactor Design

Concluding Remarks
Catalytic Combustion
Authors: Forzatti Pio , Groppi Gianpiero , Cristiani Cinzia
Published: March 2008

The sections in this article are

Introduction

Base Concepts and System Requirements

Design Approaches

Fully Catalytic Combustor

Fuel Staging

Partial Catalytic Hybrid Combustor

Commercialization Status and Perspectives

Fuel‐Rich Catalytic Combustion

Catalytic Materials

Honeycomb Substrate

Active Catalyst Layer

PdO‐Based Catalysts

Metal‐Substituted Hexaaluminate (HA) Catalysts

Rich Combustion Catalysts

Modeling of Catalytic Combustors

Status and Outlook
Oxidations on Immobilized Molecular Catalysts
Authors: Wahlen Joos , De Vos Dirk
Published: March 2008

The sections in this article are

Introduction

Immobilization Methods

Adsorption

Ion Pair Formation

Physical Entrapment

Covalent Binding

Framework Substitution

General Considerations

Oxidants

Metal Catalysts

AMetal‐Catalyzed Oxidations with Peroxide Oxidants

BMetal‐Catalyzed Oxidations with Molecular Oxygen

Catalyst Supports

AOrganic Supports

BInorganic Supports

Leaching

Selected Examples

Titanium

Manganese and Iron

AImmobilized Phthalocyanines and Porphyrins

a Olefin Epoxidation

b Oxyfunctionalization of Saturated Hydrocarbons

BImmobilized Non‐Planar Ligands

Cobalt

AOxidation of Thiols

BOxyfunctionalization of Saturated Hydrocarbons

Copper

AOxidative Coupling of Phenols

BOxygenation of Enamines

Molybdenum

Ruthenium

AAlcohol Oxidation

BOlefin Epoxidation and Oxyfunctionalization of Saturated Hydrocarbons

Tungsten

AImmobilization ofWvia Anion Exchange

BImmobilization ofWviaPOWinteractions

Osmium

Concluding Remarks
Review of the Phillips Chromium Catalyst for Ethylene Polymerization
Authors: McDaniel Max P.
Published: March 2008

The year 2001 marked the 50th anniversary of the discovery of the Phillips chromium catalyst, from which today's worldwide high‐density polyethylene industry sprang. Appropriately, during that year the discoverers of this catalyst system, J. Paul Hogan and Robert L. Banks, were inducted into the National Inventors Hall of Fame, in Akron, OH, to join other distinguished inventors spanning two centuries who have shaped our world. This chapter reviews our understanding of the chemistry associated with that catalyst system, which is used globally to produce perhaps half of the world's high‐density polyethylene, and it provides examples of how that chemistry is exploited commercially.
Block Copolymer ‘Stealth’ Nanoparticles for Chemotherapy: Interactions with Blood Cells In Vitro
Authors: Ma Lwin L. , Jie Pan , Venkatraman Subbu S.
Published: March 2008

Passive targeting is one of the approaches to reduce the side effects in intravenous chemotherapeutic administration. This is usually achieved by using so‐called ‘stealth’ particles as carriers, such that the particles can avoid uptake by cells of the reticulo endothelial system (RES) and thus enhance their blood lifetime. To date, there have been no studies of the contribution of various factors to the uptake of particles by the RES, although there is general agreement that a hydrophilic particle surface is helpful. In this study, data is presented on the effect of particle size and surface chemistry on the uptake by monocyte cell lines, as well as by cells in whole blood. Block copolymers of hydrophilic poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) and the hydrophobic poly(L‐lactide) (PLA) have been used to study surface concentration and conformation effects. It is found that diblock copolymers, in general, show the best stealth characteristics, although triblocks with PEG segment lengths above a certain value are also comparable. It is also found that the uptake goes through a minimum with respect to particle size. For the first time, a method is presented to evaluate the relative uptake efficiency of various types of blood cells, using flow cytometry. The observations are related to structural features found on the polymers.
Iridium‐Catalyzed Asymmetric Hydrogenation of Vinyl Ethers
Authors: Zhu Ye , Burgess Kevin
Published: March 2008

A carbene‐oxazoline catalyst 1 proved to be an effective catalyst for reduction of an enol ether that the literature suggested could not be hydrogenated effectively by P,N‐Ir catalysts. Thus, a series of ester and alcohol substrates were hydrogenated using catalyst 1. Good to excellent enantioselectivities and high conversions were obtained.
The in vitro antifungal activity of some dithiocarbamate organotin(IV) compounds on Candida albicans— a model for biological interaction of organotin complexes
Authors: Menezes D. C. , Vieira F. T. , de Lima G. M. , Wardell J. L. , Cortés M.E. , Ferreira M. P. , Soares M. A. , Vilas Boas A.
Published: March 2008

The in vitro antifungal activity of the dithiocarbamate organotin complexes [Sn{S2CN(CH2)4}2Cl2] (1), [Sn{S2CN(CH2)4}2Ph2] (2), [Sn{S2CN(CH2)4}Ph3] (3), [Sn{S2CN(CH2)4}2n‐Bu2] (4), [Sn{S2CN(CH2)4}Cy3] {Cy = cyclohexyl} (5), [Sn{S2CN(C2H5)2}2Cl2] (6), [Sn{S2CN(C2H5)2}2Ph2] (7), [Sn{S2CN(C2H5)2}Ph3] (8), [Sn{S2CN(C2H5)2}3Ph] (9) and [Sn{S2CN(C2H5)2}Cy3] (10) has been screened against Candida albicans (ATCC 18804), Candida tropicalis (ATCC 750) and resistant Candida albicans collected from HIV‐positive Brazilian patients with oral candidiasis. All compounds exhibited antifungal activities and complexes 3 and 8 displayed the best results. We have investigated the effect of compounds 1–10 on the cellular activity of the yeast cultures. Changes in mitochondrial function have not been detected. However, all drugs reduced ergosterol biosynthesis. Preliminary studies on DNA integrity indicated that the compounds do not cause gross damage to yeast DNA. The data suggest that these compounds share some mechanisms of action on cell membranes similar to that of polyene but not with azole drugs, normally used in Candida infections. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Novel glycosylated carboranylquinazolines for boron neutron capture therapy of tumors: synthesis, characterization, and in vitro toxicity studies
Authors: Genady Afaf R. , El‐Zaria Mohamed E.
Published: March 2008

The synthesis of a series of N‐glycosyl caboranylquinazolines is described. The condensation reaction of nitro‐acetylanthranilic acid with aminophenylcarborane gave 3‐[(o‐carboran‐1‐yl)phenyl]‐2‐methyl‐6‐nitroquinazolin‐4(3H)‐one 1 followed by reduction with Na2S to the corresponding 6‐amino‐3‐[(o‐carboran‐1‐yl)phenyl]‐2‐methylquinazolin‐4(3H)‐one 2. Reaction of compound 2 with D‐glucose or D‐ribose in methanol in the presence of a catalytic amount of acetic acid affords boronated N‐glycosylaminoquinazolines namely: 2‐methyl‐3‐[4‐(o‐carboran‐1‐yl)phenyl]‐6‐[N‐β‐D‐glucopyranosyl)]aminoquinazolin‐4(3H)‐one 3 or 2‐methyl‐3‐[4‐(o‐carboran‐1‐yl)phenyl]‐6‐[N‐β‐D‐ribofuranosyl)]aminoquinazolin‐4(3H)‐one 4, respectively. Degradation of the o‐caborane cage of compounds 3 and 4 yielded highly water‐soluble compounds of sodium 2‐methyl‐3‐[4‐(nido‐undecarborate‐1‐yl)phenyl]‐6‐[N‐β‐D‐glucopyranosyl]aminoquinazolin‐4(3H)‐one 5 and sodium 2‐methyl‐3‐[4‐(nido‐undecarborate‐1‐yl)phenyl]‐6‐[N‐β‐D‐ribofuranosyl)]aminoquinazolin‐4(3H)‐one 6, respectively. The structures were established on the basis of elemental analysis, NMR, IR and mass spectrometry. The in vitro toxicity test using B16 melanoma cells showed that N‐glycosyl of nido‐undecaboranylquinazolines (5 and 6), with higher water solubility, is not toxic at boron concentration of 3000 µg boron ml−1, whereas, N‐glycosyl of closo‐carboranylquinazolines (3 and 4) has LD50 > 200 µg boron ml−1. The compounds described here may be considered as potential agents for BNCT. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Antimicrobial activity of organotin(IV) compounds: a review
Authors: Basu Baul Tushar S.
Published: March 2008

A comprehensive review on antimicrobial activity of organotin(IV) compounds is presented. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis and biological activities of new 1H‐1,2,4‐triazole alcohol derivatives containing a ferrocenyl moiety
Authors: Liu Jianbing , Li Lichun , Dai Hong , Fang Jianxin
Published: March 2008

Fourteen new 1H‐1,2,4‐triazole alcohol derivatives containing a ferrocenyl moiety were synthesized. In addition, six unexpected compounds, the hydroxyls of the title compounds, methylated by methanol, were obtained. The structures of all these new compounds were confirmed using 1H NMR spectra, 13C NMR, MS and elemental analyses. Some compounds were also confirmed with IR spectra. The antifungal and plant growth regulatory activities of the title compounds are discussed. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis and characterization of an amphiphilic graft copolymer with a poly(acrylic acid) backbone and n‐octylphenyl polyoxyethylene side chains
Authors: Wang F. P. , Du X. Z. , Wang C. , Dong X. L. , Yuan L.
Published: March 2008

A novel, well‐defined, amphiphilic graft copolymer was synthesized by the free‐radical copolymerization of acrylic acid and an amphiphilic macromonomer, n‐octylphenyl polyoxyethylene acrylate. This acrylic copolymer was characterized by IR and 1H‐NMR. The number‐average molecular weight was determined by gel permeation chromatography to be 4.37 × 104 (weight‐average molecular weight/number‐average molecular weight = 1.23). The graft copolymer exhibited good solubility in water and high surface activity at much lower concentrations. The molecules of the AA–C8PhEO10Ac copolymer formed polymolecular micelles at 3.0 × 10−4 g/mL. The aggregation of the copolymer was examined in aqueous solution by measurement of the fluorescence of 2‐p‐ toluidinylnaphthalene 6‐sulfonate as a fluorescent probe. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Effects of operation conditions, solvent and gelation bath on morphology and performance of PPESK asymmetric ultrafiltration membrane
Authors: Sun Weina , Li Lei , Chen Cuixian , Li Jiding
Published: March 2008

The effect of gelation temperature, evaporation time, solvent and gelation bath on the structure and performance of poly(phthalazinone ether sulfone ketone) (PPESK) asymmetric ultrafiltration membrane via phase inversion are investigated; the relationship between gelation thickness of dope solutions (X) and time for several polymer solutions with different solvents and gelation bath by online optical microscope–CCD camera experimental system (OM–CC system) are obtained. The results show that gelation temperature has much stronger influence on aperture opening ratio of membrane surface (AOR) and average diameter of membrane surface (AD) than evaporation time, whereas evaporation time has greater effect on the structure factor of membrane cross‐section (S). Bovine serum albumin rejection (R) is mainly determined by surface structure; however, pure water flux (J) is controlled not only by the structure of surface and cross‐section, but also the connectivity of the pores. PPESK membranes with fine performance can be fabricated under appropriate gelation temperature and evaporation time. In addition, the membrane structure and performance vary widely when various solvents and gelation bath are employed. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Atom transfer radical polymerization of methyl methacrylate in a novel ionic liquid and recycling of the catalyst
Authors: Xiao Guilin , Zhang Haibo , Hong Xinlin , Zhang Gaoyong , Zhou Xiaohai , Xia Bilai
Published: March 2008

With 2,2′‐bipyridine as the ligand and methyl 2‐bromopropionate as the initiator, the copper‐mediated atom transfer radical polymerization of methyl methacrylate was first conducted in a novel ionic liquid, N‐butyl‐N‐methyl morpholinium tetrafluoroborate. The polymerization kinetics were confirmed to agree with the features of living/controlled free‐radical polymerization. The results showed that the dosage of catalyst for well‐controlled polymerization could be reduced obviously in N‐butyl‐N‐methyl morpholinium tetrafluoroborate versus the normal organic solvent. The obtained polymers could be separated easily from the catalyst solution in the ionic liquid. Significantly, the recycled N‐butyl‐N‐methyl morpholinium tetrafluoroborate solution of catalysts had catalytic activity similar to that of the fresh catalyst. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Magnetic composite based on vinylic template
Authors: Tudorachi N. , Chiriac A. P.
Published: March 2008

This article presents the achievement of a magnetic composite having a vinylic polymeric structure as matrix based on a styrene/methyl methacrylate/2,3‐epoxypropyl methacrylate. The synthesis of the copolymers performed through an emulsion polymerization process was realized in the presence of potassium persulfate as radical initiator and sodium lauryl sulfate as anionic tensioactive agent. To have a network capable for a better coupling of the ferrite, the vinylic polymeric structure was crosslinked with a diamino‐compound. The magnetic composite obtainment was confirmed by the IR, DSC, and thermogravimetric analysis, as well as by optic and electronic microscopy, and also by the determination of the magnetic susceptibility of the products. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Mit Schrauben Bewehren
Authors: Trautz Martin , Koj Christoph
Published: March 2008

Selbstbohrende Vollgewindeschrauben (VGS) sind moderne Verbindungsmittel des Holzbaus, die aufgrund ihrer hohen Festigkeit und ihrer günstigen Verbundeigenschaften zunehmend als Verstärkungselemente oder als Verbindungsmittel für Fügungen von Holzbauteilen zum Einsatz kommen. Um die konstruktiven Vorzüge, die vergleichbar mit den Eigenschaften einer Bewehrung im Stahlbetonbau sind, systematisch zu nutzen, wurden Bauteile aus Brettschichtholz mit Schrauben verstärkt, deren Konfiguration u.a. mit Hilfe von Fachwerkmodellen auf den inneren Kräfteverlauf abgestimmt waren.

Im Rahmen von Sondierungsversuchen an Serien gleich bewehrter Bauteile wurden die Veränderungen und Verbesserungen des Tragverhaltens der auf diese Weise verstärkten Bauteile untersucht.
Rapid Cooling Experiments and Use of an Anionic Nuclear Probe to Sense the Spin Transition of the 1D Coordination Polymers [Fe(NH2trz)3]SnF6⋅n H2O (NH2trz=4‐amino‐1,2,4‐triazole)
Authors: Garcia Yann , Ksenofontov Vadim , Mentior Sophie , Dîrtu Marinela M. , Gieck Christine , Bhatthacharjee Ashis , Gütlich Philipp
Published: March 2008

[Fe(NH2trz)3]SnF6⋅n H2O (NH2trz=4‐amino‐1,2,4‐triazole; n=1 (1), n=0.5 (2)) are new 1D spin‐crossover coordination polymers. Compound 2 exhibits an incomplete spin transition centred at around 210 K with a thermal hysteresis loop approximately 16 K wide. The spin transition of 2 was detected by the Mössbauer resonance of the 119Sn atom in the SnF62− anion primarily on the basis of the evolution of its local distortion. Rapid‐cooling 57Fe Mössbauer and superconducting quantum interference device experiments allow dramatic widening of the hysteresis width of 2 from 16 K up to 82 K and also shift the spin‐transition curve into the room temperature region. This unusual behaviour of quenched samples on warming is attributed to activation of the molecular motion of the anions from a frozen distorted form towards a regular form at temperatures well above approximately 210 K. Potential applications of this new family of materials are discussed.
Thermolysis Product Distribution of Solid Waste Obtained From Olive Oil Production
Authors: Mehmetli Ebru , Dogan Özgür , Tiris Mustafa , Kiran Nilgün Ciliz , Matuschek Georg
Published: March 2008

Pyrolysis and direct combustion processes were applied to pomace obtained from olive oil production in Bayer/ICI/Shell (BIS) and Verbant der Chemische Industrie (VCI) furnaces. The volatile and semi‐volatile products derived from both processes taking place in each furnace were captured on XAD resins at selected temperature and non‐volatiles were obtained after extraction of the resins with acetone. The qualitative and quantitative determinations were carried out by using a gas chromatograph coupled with mass spectrometry. It was found that the compound distribution at different temperatures in the combustion process were wider than for the pyrolysis in the BIS furnace. The compounds obtained at lower temperatures during pyrolysis and combustion in the VCI furnace showed similarities, although a larger number of compounds were obtained at 800°C in the combustion process than in the pyrolysis process.
Pilot study of combination chemotherapy of S‐1, a novel oral DPD inhibitor, and interferon‐α for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma with extrahepatic metastasis
Authors: Nakamura Masato , Nagano Hiroaki , Marubashi Shigeru , Miyamoto Atsushi , Takeda Yutaka , Kobayashi Shogo , Wada Hiroshi , Noda Takehiro , Dono Keizo , Umeshita Koji , Monden Morito
Published: March 2008

BACKGROUND.

To the authors' knowledge, there is no effective therapy for extrahepatic metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In a pilot study, the results of combination therapy of S‐1, a novel oral dehydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPD) inhibitor, and interferon‐alpha (IFN‐α) are reported for HCC patients with extrahepatic metastasis.

METHODS.

Twelve patients with extrahepatic metastasis of HCC were enrolled in the pilot study. S‐1 was administered orally at a dose based on body surface area, twice daily after a meal, for 4 weeks. IFN‐α was injected subcutaneously on Days 1, 3, and 5 of each week. One course consisted of consecutive administration for 28 days followed by 14 days rest.

RESULTS.

An objective response was observed in 3 (25%) of 12 patients. The overall 1‐year survival rate was 61.7%. Grade 3 leukocytopenia was observed in 1 patient (8.3%). No severe toxicity or treatment‐related deaths were observed.

CONCLUSIONS.

The combination therapy of S‐1 and IFN‐α appears to be highly efficacious, with low toxicity in patients with extrahepatic metastases of HCC. The combination chemotherapy of oral S‐1 and subcutaneous IFN‐α is a potentially promising treatment strategy for advanced HCC with extrahepatic metastasis. Cancer 2008. ©2008 American Cancer Society.
Role of resection margins in patients treated with breast conservation surgery
Authors: Zavagno Giorgio , Goldin Elena , Mencarelli Roberto , Capitanio Giovanni , Bianco Paola Del , Marconato Renato , Mocellin Simone , Marconato Giorgia , Belardinelli Valentina , Marcon Francesca , Nitti Donato
Published: March 2008

BACKGROUND

After breast conservation therapy (BCT), margin status is routinely evaluated to select patients who need reexcision. The aim of this study was to investigate how margin status and other clinicopathologic factors correlate with the presence of residual tumor at reexcision.

METHODS

A series of 431 breast cancer patients who underwent BCT followed by reexcision were considered because they had positive or close (≤3 mm) margins. At univariate and multivariate analysis the frequency of residual tumor in the reexcision specimens was associated with the status and width of resection margins and with a series of other clinicopathologic factors.

RESULTS

Of the 382 evaluable patients, 253 had positive and 129 close margins. Residual tumor was found at reexcision in 51.8% positive‐margin patients and 34.1% close‐margin patients (P = .001). In the latter group tumor‐margin distance (range, 0.08 to 3 mm) was not associated with the incidence of residual tumor (P = .134). On univariate analysis age ≤45 years (P = .006), intraductal histotype (P = .005), size > 2 cm (P = .010), positive axillary nodes (P = .031), and timing of reexcision (P = .044) were significantly associated with a higher frequency of residual tumor. All these factors, except tumor size, maintained a significant predictive value on multivariate analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

In the presence of positive margins, relevant residual disease cannot be ruled out and further surgery is indicated. Close margins do not mandate reexcision because they may indicate either that the tumor has been radically excised or the presence of residual foci of a multifocal tumor, which are usually effectively treated by radiotherapy. Cancer 2008. © 2008 American Cancer Society.
Dietary flavonoid intake and lung cancer—A population‐based case‐control study
Authors: Cui Yan , Morgenstern Hal , Greenland Sander , Tashkin Donald P. , Mao Jenny T. , Cai Lin , Cozen Wendy , Mack Thomas M. , Lu Qing‐Yi , Zhang Zuo‐Feng
Published: March 2008

BACKGROUND

Laboratory studies suggest that flavonoids are antimutagenic and anticarcinogenic. To investigate the associations between commonly consumed flavonoid compounds and lung cancer, the authors conducted a population‐based case–control study of 558 lung cancer cases and a group of 837 controls.

METHODS

Dietary intakes of flavonoids were estimated by combining the intake frequency (collected by a food frequency questionnaire), portion size, and food composition data. Unconditional logistic regression analysis was used to estimate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence limits (95% CLs) with an adjustment for potential confounders, including age, sex, race‐ethnicity, years of schooling, smoking status, pack‐years of tobacco smoking, and daily energy intake.

RESULTS

Lung cancer was associated inversely with the consumption of epicatechin (in 10 mg per day increment: OR, 0.64; 95% CL, 0.46–0.88), catechin (4 mg per day increment: OR, 0.49; 95% CL, 0.35–0.70), quercetin (9 mg per day increment: OR, 0.65; 95% CL, 0.44–0.95), and kaempferol (2 mg per day increment: OR, 0.68; 95% CL, 0.51–0.90) among tobacco smokers. There was little association between lung cancer and the flavonoid compounds mentioned above among nonsmokers. Regardless of smoking status, there was little association with total flavonoids: thearubigins, hesperetin, naringenin, and myricetin. In addition, consumption of vegetables, tea, and wine, all of which are rich sources of flavonoids, was associated inversely with lung cancer among tobacco smokers.

CONCLUSIONS

Certain flavonoid compounds, including epicatechin, catechin, quercetin, and kaempferol, were associated inversely with lung cancer among tobacco smokers, but not among nonsmokers. Further studies of these associations may be warranted. Cancer 2008. © 2008 American Cancer Society.
Predicting NMR Relaxation Rates in Anisotropically Tumbling Proteins through Networks of Coupled Rotators
Authors: Nodet Gabrielle , Abergel Daniel , Bodenhausen Geoffrey
Published: March 2008

We show that the prediction of 15N relaxation rates in proteins can be extended to systems with anisotropic global rotational diffusion by using a network of coupled rotators (NCR), starting from a three‐dimensional structure. The relaxation rates predicted by this method are confronted in several examples with experiments performed by other groups. The NCR spectral density functions are compared with the results obtained from reduced spectral density mapping. The consequence of the timescales of internal motions on the predicted relaxation rates and the effects of the predicted local anisotropy—present only in the case of anisotropic overall tumbling—on dynamic parameters, are discussed.
Electron microscopic 3D‐reconstruction of dendritic spines in cultured hippocampal neurons undergoing synaptic plasticity
Authors: Ovtscharoff Wladimir , Segal Menahem , Goldin Miri , Helmeke Carina , Kreher Ute , Greenberger Varda , Herzog Andreas , Michaelis Bernd , Braun Katharina
Published: March 2008

Dendritic spines are assumed to constitute the locus of neuronal plasticity, and considerable effort has been focused on attempts to demonstrate that new memories are associated with the formation of new spines. However, few studies that have documented the appearance of spines after exposure to plasticity‐producing paradigms could demonstrate that a new spine is touched by a bona fida presynaptic terminal. Thus, the functional significance of plastic dendritic spine changes is not clearly understood. We have used quantitative time lapse confocal imaging of cultured hippocampal neurons before and after their exposure to a conditioning medium which activates synaptic NMDA receptors. Following the experiment the cultures were prepared for 3D electron microscopic reconstruction of visually identified dendritic spines. We found that a majority of new, 1‐ to 2‐h‐old spines was touched by presynaptic terminals. Furthermore, when spines disappeared, the parent dendrites were sometime touched by a presynaptic bouton at the site where the previously identified spine had been located. We conclude that new spines are most likely to be functional and that pruned spines can be transformed into shaft synapses and thus maintain their functionality within the neuronal network. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol, 2008.
Semaphorin 3A inhibits ERM protein phosphorylation in growth cone filopodia through inactivation of PI3K
Authors: Gallo Gianluca
Published: March 2008

Ezrin–radixin–moesin (ERM) proteins are involved in the linkage of membranes to theactin filament (F‐actin) cytoskeleton. Phosphorylation of the C‐terminus activates the F‐actin binding domain of ERM proteins by preventing the action of an autoinhibitory domain. In this study, we investigated whether a growth cone collapsing signal, semaphorin 3A (Sema3A), alters the state of ERM C‐terminus phosphorylation. In the growth cones of dorsal root ganglion axons, phosphorylated ERM proteins localize to filopodia. We report that Sema3A inhibits ERM protein phosphorylation in growth cone filopodia. Significantly, Sema3A decreased ERM phosphorylation prior to the onset of growth cone collapse. Over‐expression of the F‐actin binding fragment of ERM proteins, which competes with endogenous ERM proteins for binding to F‐actin, inhibited filopodial initiation and dynamics. Sema3A has been previously shown to inhibit phosphoinositide 3‐kinase (PI3K) activity. Inhibition of PI3K resulted in the loss of phosphorylated ERM proteins from growth cone filopodia, and treatment with a PI3K activating peptide blocked the effects of Sema3A on ERM phosphorylation. Collectively, these observations demonstrate that inactivation of PI3K in response to Sema3A results in decreased phosphorylation of ERM proteins in filopodia thereby contributing to growth cone collapse. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol, 2008.
Generation and characterization of alpha‐chymase‐Cre transgenic mice
Authors: Müsch Werner , Wege Anja K. , Männel Daniela N. , Hehlgans Thomas
Published: March 2008

The Cre‐loxP technology allows the introduction of somatic gene alterations in a tissue and/or cell type specific manner. The development of transgenes that target Cre expression to specific cell types is a critical component in this system. Here, we describe the generation and characterization of transgenic mouse lines expressing Cre recombinase under the control of the baboon α‐chymase promoter, designated Chm:Cre, in order to direct Cre expression specifically to mouse mast cells. Chm:Cre expression was detected in mast cells in lung and colon tissue. Cre‐mediated recombination in these mice identified a population of mature tissue resident mast cells using ROSA26R reporter mice. No Cre‐expression and Cre‐mediated recombination was induced in in vitro generated bone marrow derived mast cells or mast cells isolated from the peritoneal cavity indicating that Cre‐expression under the control of the α‐chymase promoter is solely activated in tissue resident mast cells. These Chm:Cre transgenic mice represent a useful tool to specifically inactivate genes of interest in mast cells of these tissues. genesis 46:163–166, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Generation and characterization of Csrp1 enhancer‐driven tissue‐restricted Cre‐recombinase mice
Authors: Snider Paige , Fix Jana L. , Rogers Rhonda , Peabody‐Dowling Goldie , Ingram David , Lilly Brenda , Conway Simon J.
Published: March 2008

Cell type‐specific genetic modification using the LoxP/Cre system is a powerful tool for genetic analysis of distinct cell lineages. Because of the unique arterial smooth muscle‐restricted expression of a 5.0 kb cysteine‐rich protein (Csrp1) enhancer (Lilly et al.,2001, Dev Biol 240:531–547), we hypothesized that a transgenic Cre line would prove useful for the smooth muscle lineage‐specific genetic manipulation. Here we describe a transgenic mouse line, ECsrp1Cre, where Cre is initially specifically expressed in arterial smooth muscle cells. Use of the ROSA26R reporter allele confirmed that Cre‐mediated recombination in vascular smooth muscle cells began at ∼E10.0 and was highly proficient. Subsequently, Cre is expressed in restricted skeletal and nonvascular smooth muscle lineages. This lineage tracing data is important for future conditional knockout studies to understand where and when Cre‐mediated deletion occurs and where Cre‐expressing daughter cells finally localize. Additionally, we crossed the ECsrp1Cre mice to the ROSA26‐eGFP‐DTA diphtheria toxin A‐expressing mice to genetically ablate ECsrp1Cre expressing cells. This ECsrp1Cre transgenic line should thus prove useful for genetic analysis of diverse aspects of cardiovascular morphogenesis and as a general smooth muscle lineage deletor line. genesis 46:167–176, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Regulation and function of foxe3 during early zebrafish development
Authors: Swindell Eric C. , Zilinski Carolyn A. , Hashimoto Ryuju , Shah Rina , Lane Mary Ellen , Jamrich Milan
Published: March 2008

In this article, we investigate the expression, regulation, and function of the zebrafish forkhead gene foxe3. In wild type embryos, foxe3 is first expressed in a crescent‐shaped area at the anterior end of the prechordal plate, corresponding to the polster. At later stages, the hatching gland, the lens, and the anterior pituitary express this gene. Using morpholinos against the zinc finger Kruppel‐like factor 4 (KLF4) we show that foxe3 is regulated differently in the polster and in the lens. In the absence of KLF4, expression of foxe3 in the polster is not activated, whereas in the lens placode the expression of KLF4 is not required for the transcription of foxe3. The expression of foxe3 is also regulated by the hedgehog and nodal signaling pathways. foxe3 expression is altered in the hedgehog pathway mutants iguana and you‐too and the nodal pathway mutant cyclops. foxe3 function is necessary for the execution of lens‐specific gene expression and lens morphogenesis, as the knockdown of foxe3 results in a loss of platelet‐derived growth factor receptor alpha (pdgfrα) expression and in the vacuolization of the lens. 46:177–183, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Speciation of magnesium in rat plasma using capillary electrophoresis‐inductively coupled plasma‐atomic emission spectrometry
Authors: Deng Biyang , Li Xianfeng , Zhu Pingchuan , Xu Xiangshu , Xu Qiumei , Kang Yanhui
Published: March 2008

A new method for speciation analysis of magnesium species and quantification of free magnesium concentrations in rat plasma was developed by on‐line coupling of CE with inductively coupled plasma‐atomic emission spectrometry (ICP‐AES). Baseline separation of seven magnesium species was achieved by using a 120 cm (100 μm internal diameter) fused‐silica capillary, a 20 kV separation voltage and a solution of 50 mmol/L NaAc‐HAc (pH 5.5) as electrolyte buffer. CE‐ICP‐AES analysis of a rat plasma sample showed the presence of seven magnesium species, one of which was identified as free Mg2+ ion by spiking a Mg2+ standard; the migration time of the Mg2+ peak in the standard and the spiked sample matched with each other. One protein‐bound magnesium species in rat plasma is associated with albumin, and the other three species are combined with globulin. The concentration of free magnesium in the plasma was 14.0 mg/L. The other six magnesium species were estimated to be 4–15 mg/L. RSDs of migration time and peak area for the magnesium species from ten replicates were less than 5%. The developed method was also applied to speciation analysis of magnesium species in spiked plasma samples. The recoveries of the free magnesium species in four samples ranged from 95.8 to 103.8%.
High‐dose‐rate brachytherapy plus neck dissection for nodal disease
Authors: Beitler Jonathan J. , Garg Madhur , Owen Randall P. , Sarta Catherine , Smith Richard V. , Yaparpalvi Ravindra
Published: March 2008

Background

Regional control for advanced nodal disease has been only marginally affected by concurrent chemoradiation, hyperfractionation, concomitant boost, or accelerated external radiation.

Methods

Twenty‐five necks in 24 patients received brachytherapy treatment (20 Gy in 10 twice‐daily fractions) in addition to external radiation, neck dissection ± chemotherapy. Indications for brachytherapy included initial treatment of bulky disease (n = 12), recurrence of neck disease in a previously treated patient with at least a 3‐month disease‐free interval (n = 6), persistent disease after a curative efforts (n = 4), inadequate external radiation (ie, <40 Gy) due to either intolerance or noncompliance (n = 3).

Results

Overall actuarial regional control was 67% at 2 years. Regional control for those receiving brachytherapy as part of their initial treatment was 82% despite a mean nodal diameter of 8.7 cm (range, 5–15 cm). The 2‐year actuarial regional control was 56% for the patients with a disease‐free interval of at least 3 years.

Conclusion

High‐dose‐rate brachytherapy produced excellent regional control. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2008
Lymphadenomatous carcinoma of the sublingual gland: Report of a first case in an unusual localization
Authors: Kwon Yong‐Dae , Biesterfeld Stefan , Hansen Torsten , Schwerdtfeger Andreas , Kunkel Martin
Published: March 2008

Background.

Lymphadenomatous carcinoma of the salivary gland is a very rare tumor, which hitherto occurred exclusively in the parotid gland. This report describes a case of lymphadenomatous carcinoma of the sublingual gland, which is thought to be the first report of this special entity.

Methods and Results.

A 36‐year‐old man was seen with slowly growing mass on his right floor of mouth. Upon surgical removal, the mass was well encapsulated. Microscopic examination revealed a biphasic appearance with islands of neoplastic epithelial cells presenting against a dense lymphoid stroma, while the epithelial compartment showed features of malignancy. During 30‐months of close follow‐up, there has not been any sign of local recurrence or metastasis.

Conclusion.

The clinical behavior, the age of the patient, and the sublingual localization differentiate this lesion from the sebaceous type, favoring lymphadenomatous carcinoma as a distinct clinical entity. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2008
Free tissue transfer reconstruction of the head and neck at a Veterans Affairs hospital
Authors: Myers Larry L. , Sumer Baran D. , Defatta Robert J. , Minhajuddin Abu
Published: March 2008

Background

The Veterans Affairs (VA) population is considered to have generally poorer health than its non‐VA counterpart.

Methods

We reviewed our experience with 55 consecutive patients undergoing free tissue transfers for head and neck reconstruction at the Dallas VA Hospital between July 2000 and September 2006, with 6 months' follow‐up.

Results

The overall success rate was 93% (51 of 55 flaps). Factors affecting flap survival were fasciocutaneous flap versus others (p = .01) and minimal versus excessive intraoperative crystalloid administration (p = .03). Nine different flaps were used. Major and minor complications occurred in 33% (n = 18) and 31% (n = 17) patients, respectively. Average intensive care unit and hospital stays were 7.4 and 16.0 days, respectively.

Conclusions

Free flaps for head and neck reconstructions in the VA population can be performed with excellent success rates. Complication rates and hospital days in this population are similar to those of the non‐VA populations. Flap selection and administration of minimal intraoperative fluids are important. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck, 2008
In vivo patellar tracking: Clinical motions and patellofemoral indices
Authors: Nha Kyung W. , Papannagari Ramprasad , Gill Thomas J. , Van de Velde Samuel K. , Freiberg Andrew A. , Rubash Harry E. , Li Guoan
Published: March 2008

Patellar tracking during in vivo weightbearing knee function is not well understood. This study investigated patellar tracking of eight subjects during a full range of weightbearing flexion using magnetic resonance imaging and dual orthogonal fluoroscopy. The data were reported using a clinical description based on patellar and femoral joint coordinate systems and using patellar indices based on geometrical features of the femur and patella. The mean patellar shift was within 3 mm over the entire range of flexion. The patella tilted laterally from 0° to 75°, and then tilted medially beyond 75° of flexion. The mean tilt was within 6°. Similarly, the mean patellar rotation was small at early flexion, and the mean total excursion of patellar rotation was about 8°. The patellofemoral indices showed that the mean sulcus angle and congruence angle varied within 8° over the entire flexion range. The mean lateral patellar displacement was within 6 mm. A consistent decrease in lateral patellar tilt and an increase in lateral patellofemoral angle were observed with knee flexion. In conclusion, patellar motion is relatively small with respect to the femur during in vivo weightbearing knee flexion. These data may provide baseline knowledge for understanding normal patellar tracking. © 2008 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 26:1067–1074, 2008
Knee joint biomechanics following arthroscopic partial meniscectomy
Authors: Sturnieks Daina L. , Besier Thor F. , Mills Peter M. , Ackland Tim R. , Maguire Ken F. , Stachowiak Gwidon W. , Podsiadlo Pawel , Lloyd David G.
Published: March 2008

We investigated spatiotemporal data, joint kinematics, and joint kinetics during gait in a group of subjects who had recently undergone arthroscopic partial meniscectomy and compared the results to those of healthy controls. Gait analysis was performed on 105 pain‐free meniscectomy patients and 47 controls, walking at a self‐selected speed. The meniscectomy population was comparable to controls in spatiotemporal parameters and knee kinematics. However, they had reduced range of motion (ROM) and lower peak moments in the sagittal plane on the operated limb compared to the nonoperated limb. Compared to controls, the meniscectomy patients had significantly larger knee adduction moments over stance, even after accounting for their greater body weight. These differences likely increase articular loads on the medial compartment of the tibiofemoral joint and may contribute to the high risk of knee osteoarthritis following arthroscopic meniscal surgery. © 2008 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 26:1075–1080, 2008
Effects of a bioscaffold on collagen fibrillogenesis in healing medial collateral ligament in rabbits
Authors: Liang Rui , Woo Savio L‐Y. , Nguyen Tan D. , Liu Ping‐Cheng , Almarza Alejandro
Published: March 2008

Bioscaffolds have been successfully used to improve the healing of ligaments and tendons. In a rabbit model, the application of porcine small intestine submucosa (SIS) to the healing medial collateral ligament (MCL) resulted in improved mechanical properties with the formation of larger collagen fibrils. Thus, the objective of the study was to find out whether the SIS bioscaffold could improve the gene expressions of fibrillogenesis‐related molecules, specifically, collagen types I, III, V, and small leucine‐rich proteoglycans including decorin, biglycan, lumican, and fibromodulin, as well as collagen fibril morphology and organization, in the healing rabbit MCL at an early time point (6 weeks postinjury). Twenty skeletally mature rabbits were equally divided into two groups. In the SIS‐treated group, a 6‐mm gap was surgically created and a layer of SIS was sutured to cover the gap, whereas the gap was left open in the nontreated group. At 6 weeks postinjury, Masson's trichrome staining showed that the SIS‐treated group had more regularly aligned collagen fibers and cells. Transmission electron microscopy revealed that the SIS‐treated group had larger collagen fibrils with a diameter distribution from 24 to 120 nm, whereas the nontreated group had only small collagen fibrils (ranging from 26 to 87 nm, p < 0.05). Finally, the quantitative real‐time PCR showed that the mRNAs of collagen type V, decorin, biglycan, and lumican in the SIS‐treated group were 41, 58, 51, and 43% lower than those in the nontreated group, respectively (p < 0.05). Such significant reduction in the gene expressions are closely related to the improved morphological characteristics, which are known to be coupled with better mechanical properties, as previously reported in longer term studies. © 2008 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 26:1098–1104, 2008