bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preoperative clinically inapparent leucopenia in patients undergoing neoadjuvant chemotherapy for locally advanced gastric cancer is not a risk factor for surgical or general postoperative complications
Authors: Reim Daniel , Hüser Norbert , Humberg Daniela , Novotny Alexander , Assfalg Volker , Matevossian Edouard , Friess Helmut , Schuhmacher Christoph
Published: June 2010

Background

Since the recent MAGIC trial neoadjuvant chemotherapy has been considered as treatment option for patients with advanced gastric cancer for tumor‐downsizing and increasing R0 resection rates. Morbidity was reported in 45% of the patients treated within this randomized trial. Due to myelotoxicity under chemotherapy a part of the patients might undergo surgery with preoperative leucopenia. As leucopenia causes adverse events such as opportunistic infections and fever, it might be considered as a relevant risk factor in the course of surgical treatment.

Patients and Methods

We analyzed a cohort of neoadjuvantly treated patients (n = 214), which had a clinically inapparent but proven leucopenia (n = 58) before undergoing surgery due to advanced stage gastric cancer.

Results

Statistical analysis by Fisher's exact test showed, that there was no significant effect neither on general (P = 0.191) nor on surgery‐dependant postoperative complications (P = 0.75).

Conclusion

Conclusively patients with clinically inapparent leucopenia after neoadjuvant chemotherapy due to advanced stage gastric cancer can be safely operated on without putting them in danger of relevant surgical complications. J. Surg. Oncol. 2010;102:321–324. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effects of preceding interferon therapy on outcome after surgery for hepatitis C virus‐related hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Tomimaru Yoshito , Nagano Hiroaki , Eguchi Hidetoshi , Kobayashi Shogo , Marubashi Shigeru , Wada Hiroshi , Tanemura Masahiro , Umeshita Koji , Hiramatsu Naoki , Takehara Tetsuo , Doki Yuichiro , Mori Masaki
Published: June 2010

Background and Objectives

Interferon (IFN) can eradicate hepatitis C virus (HCV)‐RNA from serum and hepatic tissue, and suppress the development of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Despite such effectiveness, HCC develops even in HCV patients successfully treated with IFN therapy.

Methods

HCV‐related HCC patients who underwent curative hepatectomy for HCC were divided into three groups according to preceding IFN for HCV infection therapy and the therapeutic effect: responders group (n = 23), non‐responders group (n = 46), and no‐IFN group (n = 215). Postoperative outcome was retrospectively examined in the three groups.

Results

AST and ALT were significantly lower in responders group than non‐responders group (P < 0.001, P = 0.001) and no‐IFN group (P = 0.001, P = 0.002). Platelet count was significantly higher in responders group than other groups (P = 0.008, P = 0.001). The percentage of cirrhotic patients in responders group was significantly lower than other groups (P = 0.017, P = 0.014). Multivariate analysis identified preceding IFN therapy to be associated with disease‐free survival at marginal significance (P = 0.086), and as a significant independent factor for overall survival (P = 0.042).

Conclusions

Preceding IFN therapy for HCV infection improves postoperative outcome in HCV‐related HCC patients treated successfully with IFN. J. Surg. Oncol. 2010;102:308–314. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
VEGF and cortactin expression are independent predictors of tumor recurrence following curative resection of gastric cancer
Authors: Wang Xin , Cao Weiguo , Mo Mingcong , Wang Wei , Wu Huita , Wang Jiejun
Published: June 2010

Introduction

To investigate the clinicopathological role of expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and cortactin, as well as whether their expression are independent predictors of tumor recurrence following curative resection of gastric cancer.

Methods

One hundred twenty‐eight patients with gastric cancer were included in this study. Formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded specimens were stained for VEGF and cortactin, and the correlation between the staining, clinicopathological parameters and prognostic power were analyzed.

Results

Of the 128 patients studied, 58 (45.3%) and 71 (55.5%) cases were strongly positive for VEGF and cortactin, respectively. VEGF expression correlated with Lauren classification (P < 0.001), pathological tumor stage (P < 0.001), and pathological tumor node metastasis (TNM) stage (P = 0.003). Cortactin expression correlated with pathological lymph node stage (P = 0.018), pathological TNM stage (P < 0.001), and degree of differentiation (P < 0.001). There were statistically significant associations between tumor recurrence and VEGF expression (P = 0.023), and cortactin expression (P < 0.001). In multivariate analysis, pathological TNM stage, VEGF expression, and cortactin expression were independent prognostic influence on disease‐free survival (P < 0.001, 0.022, and 0.034, respectively).

Conclusions

VEGF and cortactin may be a good biomarker to be applied in clinic to predict the prognosis of patients with curatively resected gastric cancer. J. Surg. Oncol. 2010;102:325–330. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Comparison of common mobile‐phase volume markers with polar‐group‐containing reversed‐phase stationary phases
Authors: Perry Paige R. , Coym Jason W.
Published: June 2010

A systematic study of the behavior of several common mobile‐phase volume markers using traditional and polar‐group‐containing reversed‐phase stationary phases is presented. Examined mobile‐phase volume markers include two neutral molecules, uracil and thiourea, concentrated (0.10 M) and dilute (0.0001 M) KNO3, and D2O. Mobile‐phase volumes are examined over the entire reversed‐phase mobile‐phase range of 100% water to 100% methanol or acetonitrile. The behavior of these mobile‐phase volume markers is compared with a maximum theoretical value (i.e. the void volume), as determined by pycnometry. The data suggest that: (i) uracil begins to fail as a mobile‐phase volume marker in mobile phases below about 40% strong solvent for polar group containing phases; (ii) in nearly all cases, the mobile‐phase volume measured dynamically is smaller than the pycnometric void volume; (iii) a significant dependence of measured mobile‐phase volume on salt concentration is seen on the polar endcapped phase, which is not observed on the traditional and embedded polar group phase; and (iv) D2O does not work well as a mobile‐phase volume marker with polar‐group‐containing phases, possibly due to interaction with the stationary phase polar group.
Direct contact‐less velocity measurement in high velocity gas flows
Authors: Lange S. , Sieber M. , Marqués J. L. , Forster G. , Schein J.
Published: June 2010

Die Entwicklung des thermischen Beschichtens als eine der Schlüsselindustrien des 21. Jahrhunderts wird auch zukünftig besonders vom Kostendruck getrieben werden. Die Möglichkeit zur Herstellung qualitativ hochwertiger Schichten erfordert ein vertiefendes Verständnis in allen Abschnitten des Beschichtungsprozesses. Den Eigenschaften der Gasströmung im Bereich des Ausganges des Flammengenerators kommt hierbei eine große Bedeutung zu, wenn die Reproduzierbarkeit der gespritzten Schichten erhöht und dadurch eine Kostenreduktion erreicht werden soll. Die Optimierung der Injektionsbedingungen verschiedenster Pulver ist Ziel der Forschung. Diese Arbeit stellt ein robustes rückwirkungsfreies optisches Diagnostikverfahren für schnelle Gasströmungen vor, welches auf der Auswertung dopplerverschobenen gestreuten Laserlichts beruht. Zur Validierung des Verfahrens wurde eine Überschalldüse von bekannter Mach‐Zahl konstruiert und mit dem etablierten Particle Imaging Velocimetry (PIV) Verfahren der Strömungsmechanik vermessen.

Thermal spraying, as one of the key industries of the 21st century, is being developed particularly due to its potential in reducing production costs. The possibility of a deposition of high quality coatings requires a deep knowledge of each step involved in the spraying process. One important factor are the properties of the gas flow close to the outlet of the flame generator, if the reproducibility of the sprayed coatings is to be achieved, as well as their production cost reduction. The optimisation of the injection parameters for different powders is the main object of this work. This paper presents a robust contact‐less optical diagnostic technique for high velocity gas flows, based in the measurement of the Doppler shift of scattered laser light. Additionally, in order to validate these measurements, a supersonic nozzle of known Mach number at outlet has been designed and measured with the well established particle imaging velocimetry technique.
Modeling approach for the life cycle profit of materials – conceptual design and case study
Authors: Götze U. , Schmidt A. , Weber T.
Published: June 2010

Eine langfristig erfolgreiche Entwicklung, Herstellung und Verwendung von (neuen) Werkstoffen setzt voraus, dass die daran beteiligten, auf wirtschaftlichen Erfolg angewiesenen Unternehmen mit diesen Werkstoffen einen positiven monetären Lebenszykluserfolg erzielen. Die Ermittlung eines solchen Lebenszykluserfolgs ist allerdings eine komplexe Aufgabenstellung, wird dieser doch durch eine Vielzahl verschiedenartiger unternehmensexterner und ‐interner Größen beeinflusst. Gerade bei derartigen komplexen Problemstellungen bietet es sich an, Vorgehensmodelle für eine systematische und strukturierte Problemanalyse und ‐zerlegung sowie die darauf basierende Bildung und Auswertung von monetären Lebenszyklusmodellen zu nutzen. Im vorliegenden Beitrag soll daher ein Vorgehensmodell zur Ermittlung und Analyse des Lebenszykluserfolgs von Werkstoffen zunächst konzipiert und anschließend anhand eines Fallbeispiels veranschaulicht werden.

Long‐term successful development, production and use of (new) materials presuppose that involved companies achieve a positive monetary life cycle benefit with these materials. However, the appraisal of this life cycle profit is a demanding task, since the profit is influenced by a huge number of different internal and external variables. Especially in case of such complex problems procedure models can support the systematic and structured analysis and decomposition of the problems as well as the creation and evaluation of monetary life cycle models basing on that. Therefore, this paper offers a suitable modeling approach for the life cycle profit of materials, which is illustrated by a case study.
Fabrication of silicon carbide reinforced aluminium powders by high‐energy ball‐milling
Authors: Wielage B. , Nestler D. , Siebeck S. , Podlesak H.
Published: June 2010

Die Herstellung von Siliziumkarbid‐Aluminium‐Verbundpulver stellt die erste Stufe der pulvermetallurgischen Herstellungsroute für partikelverstärkte Aluminiumwerkstoffe dar. Der Prozess der Verbundpulverausbildung beim Mahlen in einer Hochenergiekugelmühle und der Einfluss von Prozessparametern werden anhand der Al‐Legierung EN AW‐2017 mit 10 und 15 Vol.‐% Siliziumkarbidteilchen der Kornfraktion <2 μm untersucht. Die Gefügeentwicklung des Pulvers wird materialografisch charakterisiert. Bestimmte Prozessparameter beeinflussen den Verbundpulverzustand zum Teil gegenläufig, so dass der erreichte Optimierungsstand als Kompromiss anzusehen ist. Lösungsvarianten für eine weitere Verbesserung werden aufgezeigt.

The fabrication of aluminium silicon‐carbide composite powder is the first step of the powder metallurgical production of particle‐reinforced aluminium material. This paper deals with the production of silicon‐carbide reinforced aluminium matrix (AA2017) composite powder through an high energy ball milling process by using simoloyer‐ and planetary high energy mills. The Stages of composite powder formation during the high‐energy ball milling process will be shown by means of materialographic studies and by micro hardness. Major factors of influence as well as typical problems are discussed.
Possible genetic heterogeneity of spinocerebellar ataxia linked to chromosome 15
Authors: Weissbach Anne , Djarmati Ana , Klein Christine , Dragašević Nataša , Zühlke Christine , Raković Aleksandar , Gužvić Miodrag , Butz Elisabeth , Tönnies Holger , Siebert Reiner , Petrović Igor , Svetel Marina , Kostić Vladimir S. , Lohmann Katja
Published: June 2010

Autosomal dominant spinocerebellar ataxias (SCAs) are a clinically and genetically heterogeneous group of neurodegenerative disorders. We investigated an SCA family from Serbia of Roma ethnic origin; four affected and nine unaffected family members underwent a detailed neurological examination. The presenting symptom in all patients was gait unsteadiness in early adulthood. Additional features included pyramidal signs, depression, and cognitive impairment. The condition follows an autosomal dominant pattern of inheritance. After excluding repeat expansions in nine known SCA genes, a genome‐wide linkage analysis with 412 microsatellite markers localized the putative disease gene to a 40.7 cM (42.5 Mb) region on chromosome 15q between markers D15S1006 and D15S116. The maximum model‐based multipoint LOD score was 1.75. This region is only 4.3 Mb away from the SCA11 (TTBK2) gene. Accordingly, mutations in TTBK2 were not found, suggesting a second SCA gene on chromosome 15q as cause of this novel form of SCA. In addition, we excluded alterations in two candidate genes in the linked region, namely expansion of a polyglutamine‐coding CAG repeat in ARID3B and mutations in SEMA6D. © 2010 Movement Disorder Society
Differential pattern of brain‐specific CSF proteins tau and amyloid‐beta in Parkinsonian syndromes
Authors: Süssmuth Sigurd D. , Uttner Ingo , Landwehrmeyer Bernhard , Pinkhardt Elmar H. , Brettschneider Johannes , Petzold Axel , Kramer Bernd , Schulz Jörg B. , Palm Christian , Otto Markus , Ludolph Albert C. , Kassubek Jan , Tumani Hayrettin
Published: June 2010

To evaluate cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) proteins reflecting processes of neurodegeneration and glial activation in progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP; Richardson's syndrome, n = 20; PSP‐Parkinsonism, n = 7) and multiple system atrophy (MSA, n = 25), we analyzed tau, phosphorylated tau, amyloid‐beta1–42 (Aβ1–42), Aβ1–40, glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), and CSF routine variables. Individuals with PSP‐Parkinsonism and MSA had elevated tau levels when compared with Richardson's syndrome, Parkinson's disease (PD), and age‐matched controls (P ≤ 0.001). Ratios of P‐tau/T‐tau were significantly different in Parkinsonian syndromes. CSF Aβ1–42 was decreased only in patients with Richardson's syndrome. In a subset of Parkinsonian syndromes, we found elevated GFAP concentrations and increased CSF/serum albumin ratios. There were no correlations between biomarker concentrations and clinical scores in any of the diseases. In conclusion, this preliminary data show that changes in CSF tau and Aβ1–42 may indicate different protein processing in PSP patients and might, therefore, be relevant in the differentiation of PSP subtypes. © 2010 Movement Disorder Society
Risk factors for executive dysfunction after subthalamic nucleus stimulation in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Daniels Christine , Krack Paul , Volkmann Jens , Pinsker Markus O. , Krause Martin , Tronnier Volker , Kloss Manja , Schnitzler Alfons , Wojtecki Lars , Bötzel Kai , Danek Adrian , Hilker Rüdiger , Sturm Volker , Kupsch Andreas , Karner Elfriede , Deuschl Günther , Witt Karsten
Published: June 2010

A slight decline in cognitive functions and especially in executive functioning after deep brain stimulation (DBS) of the nucleus subthalamicus (STN) in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) has been described. This study evaluated baseline parameters that contribute to a deterioration of cognitive functioning after DBS. We analyzed data from the neuropsychological protocol in a randomized controlled study comparing DBS with best medical treatment (BMT). Change scores were calculated for the cognitive domains “global cognitive functioning,” “memory,” “working memory,” “attention,” and “executive function.” These domain‐specific change scores were correlated with previously defined preoperative parameters. Compared with the BMT group (63 patients), the STN‐DBS group (60 patients) showed a significant decline only in the domain executive function 6 months after DBS, which was significantly correlated with age, levodopa‐equivalence dosage (LED) and axial subscore of the UPDRS in the off‐medication state at baseline. Multiple regression analysis showed that these three factors explained, however, only about 23% of the variance. Patients with higher age, higher baseline LED, and/or higher axial subscore of the UPDRS at baseline have an increased risk for worsening of executive function after STN‐DBS. High scores of these factors might reflect an advanced stage of disease progression. As these baseline factors explained the variance of the change score executive function only to a minor proportion, other factors including the surgical procedure, the exact placement of the electrode or postsurgical management might be more relevant for a decline in executive functioning after STN‐DBS. © 2010 Movement Disorder Society
Treatment of insomnia in Parkinson's disease: A controlled trial of eszopiclone and placebo
Authors: Menza Matthew , Dobkin Roseanne DeFronzo , Marin Humberto , Gara Michael , Bienfait Karina , Dicke Allison , Comella Cynthia L. , Cantor Charles , Hyer Lee
Published: June 2010

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a common neurodegenerative disease affecting up to 1 million individuals in the United States. Sleep disturbances, typically in sleep maintenance, are found in up to 88% of these individuals and are associated with a variety of poor outcomes. Despite being common and important, there are few data to guide clinical care. We conducted a 6‐week, randomized, controlled trial of eszopiclone and placebo in 30 patients with PD and insomnia. Patients with other primary sleep disorders (PSG defined) were excluded. The primary outcome was total sleep time (TST), and secondary measures included wake after sleep onset (WASO), number of awakenings, and quality of sleep, among others. The groups did not significantly differ on TST, but significant differences, favoring eszopiclone, did emerge in number of awakenings (P = 0.035), quality of sleep (P = 0.018), and in physician‐rated CGI improvement (P = 0.035). There was also a trend toward significance in WASO (P = 0.071). There were no significant differences between groups in measures of daytime functioning. The drug was well tolerated, with 33% of patients on eszopiclone and 27% of patients on placebo reporting adverse events. Although modest in size, this is the first controlled study of the treatment of insomnia in patients with PD. Eszopiclone did not increase TST significantly but was superior to placebo in improving quality of sleep and some measures of sleep maintenance, which is the most common sleep difficulty experienced by patients with PD. Definitive trials of the treatment of sleep disorders in this population are warranted. © 2010 Movement Disorder Society
Antioxidant effectiveness of coffee extracts and selected constituents in cell‐free systems and human colon cell lines
Authors: Bakuradze Tamara , Lang Roman , Hofmann Thomas , Stiebitz Herbert , Bytof Gerhard , Lantz Ingo , Baum Matthias , Eisenbrand Gerhard , Janzowski Christine
Published: June 2010

Scope: Epidemiological studies suggest that coffee can reduce the risk of degenerative diseases such as diabetes type 2, cardiovascular disease and cancer. These beneficial effects have partly been attributed to the antioxidant activity of coffee. We determined composition and antioxidant potential of differentially roasted coffee extracts and investigated the impact of selected original constituents and roast products.

Methods and results: Parameters studied were direct antioxidant activity (trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity/oxygen radical absorbing capacity), cellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) level, DNA damage and protein expression of NAD(P)H: quinone oxidoreductase, γ‐glutamylcysteine ligase and glutathione reductase in HT‐29/Caco‐2 cells at 24‐h incubation. All extracts showed distinct direct antioxidant activity: medium roasts>light roast AB1 (caffeoylquinic acid (CQA)‐rich Arabica Brazil extract); dark roast AB2 (N‐methylpyridinium (NMP)‐rich Arabica Brazil extract), and diminished t‐butylhydroperoxide‐induced ROS level in HT‐29 cells (AB2>medium roasts>AB1). NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase 1 expression and γ‐glutamylcysteine ligase expression were distinctly induced by AB1 and 5‐CQA, but not by AB2 and NMP. 5‐CQA and caffeic acid exhibited highest trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity/oxygen radical absorbing capacity values (5‐CQA: 1.3/3.5 mM and caffeic acid: 1.3/3.9 mM trolox); ROS level was distinctly diminished by 5‐CQA (≥3 μM), catechol (30 μM) and trigonelline (≥30 μM), whereas menadione‐induced DNA damage in Caco‐2 cells was reduced by NMP compounds (1–30 μM).

Conclusion: The results emphasize that both original constituents and roast products contribute to the cellular antioxidant effectiveness of coffee.
Study of liquid–liquid interfaces by an easily implemented localized NMR sequence
Authors: Mantel Claire , Bayle Pierre‐Alain , Hediger Sabine , Berthon Claude , Bardet Michel
Published: June 2010

To selectively extract heavy metals from solutions containing fission products, it is essential to optimize the liquid–liquid extraction processes. Such an objective requires improving the fundamental knowledge of the different mechanisms that are involved in these processes. In that respect, we propose a localized NMR sequence named LOCSY to assess the concentration profiles of different species involved in these processes. One of the goals of this sequence is to study the products as close as possible to the liquid–liquid interface with the help of a standard NMR spectrometer of chemistry labs. The one‐dimensional spatial localization along the NMR tube is obtained by a discrete stepping of the frequency‐selective excitation pulses under a pulsed field gradient. Specific data processing has been developed to obtain the 1D NMR spectra as a function of the vertical position in the NMR tube. The LOCSY sequence has been tested and evaluated on three different systems: (i) a cylindrical phantom inserted in the NMR tube containing 4‐methylsalicylic acid solution, (ii) D2O/olive oil biphasic system, and (iii) the dissolution of solid saccharose in D2O. These examples illustrate potential applications of the LOCSY sequence, particularly the possibility to measure concentration profiles and to study phenomena such as diffusion, provided the dynamic range is compatible with NMR timescale and sensitivity. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
GIAO DFT 13C/15N chemical shifts in regioisomeric structure determination of fused pyrazoles
Authors: Chimichi Stefano , Boccalini Marco , Matteucci Alessandra , Kharlamov Sergey V. , Latypov Shamil K. , Sinyashin Oleg G.
Published: June 2010

The combined use of two‐dimensional NMR correlation experiments and gauge including atomic orbital density functional theory in 13C NMR chemical shift (CS) calculations allowed reliable and simple structural determination of regioisomeric heterocyclic systems that originate from the reactions of acylquinolinones with substituted hydrazines. Moreover, the results of differential analysis between the calculated 15N NMR CSs for hypothetical structures and the experimental data of the title azaheterocyclic systems were even more advantageous with respect to 13C because there was no need for correlational analysis: structures of the regioisomeric compounds could be determined just by direct comparison. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
INa and IKir are reduced in Type 1 hypokalemic and thyrotoxic periodic paralysis
Authors: Puwanant Araya , Ruff Robert L.
Published: June 2010

We evaluated voltage‐gated Na+ (INa) and inward rectifier K+ (IKir) currents and Na+ conductance (GNa) in patients with Type 1 hypokalemic (HOPP) and thyrotoxic periodic paralysis (TPP). We studied intercostal muscle fibers from five subjects with HOPP and one with TPP. TPP was studied when the patient was thyrotoxic (T‐toxic) and euthyroid. We measured: (1) IKir, (2) action potential thresholds, (3) INa, (4) GNa, (5) intracellular [Ca2+], and (6) histochemical fiber type. HOPP fibers had lower INa, GNa, and IKir and increased action potential thresholds. Paralytic attack frequency correlated with the action potential threshold, GNa and INa, but not with IKir. GNa, INa, and [Ca2+] varied with fiber type. HOPP fibers had increased [Ca2+]. The subject with TPP had values for GNa, INa, action potential threshold, IKir, and [Ca2+] that were similar to HOPP when T‐toxic and to controls when euthyroid. HOPP T‐toxic TPP fibers had altered GNa, INa, and IKir associated with elevation in [Ca2+]. Muscle Nerve, 2010
Atypical childhood chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy
Authors: Mohamed Ahmad R. , Rodriguez‐Casero M. Victoria , Ryan Monique M.
Published: June 2010

Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) is an uncommon cause of progressive weakness in childhood. The diagnosis is easy when the clinical history and findings are supported by unequivocal electrophysiologic and laboratory evidence of demyelination, but it can be challenging if the criteria for demyelination are not met. We report a case of atypical childhood CIDP to highlight the diagnostic difficulties and the importance of recognizing this treatable condition. Muscle Nerve, 2010
Fibrosis inhibition and muscle histopathology improvement in laminin‐α2‐deficient mice
Authors: Nevo Yoram , Halevy Orna , Genin Olga , Moshe Itai , Turgeman Tidhar , Harel Michal , Biton Edva , Reif Shimon , Pines Mark
Published: June 2010

In muscular dystrophies (MD) the loss of muscle and its ability to function are associated with fibrosis. We evaluated the efficacy of halofuginone in reducing fibrosis in the dy2J/dy2J mouse model of congenital MD. Mice were injected intraperitoneally with 5 μg of halofuginone 3 times a week for 5 or 15 weeks, starting at the age of 3 weeks. Halofuginone caused a reduction in collagen synthesis in hindlimb muscles. This was associated with reductions in the degenerated area, in cell proliferation, in the number of myofibers with central nuclei, with increased myofiber diameter, and with enhanced motor coordination and balance. Halofuginone caused a reduction in infiltrating fibroblasts that were located close to centrally nucleated myofibers. Our results suggest that halofuginone reduced the deleterious effects of fibrosis, thus improving muscle integrity. Halofuginone meets the criteria for a novel antifibrotic therapy for MD patients. Muscle Nerve, 2010
Motor unit number index (MUNIX): A novel neurophysiological technique to follow disease progression in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Neuwirth Christoph , Nandedkar Sanjeev , StåLberg Erik , Weber Markus
Published: June 2010

Motor unit number estimation techniques in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients are technically challenging and time‐consuming. The Motor Unit Number Index (MUNIX) is a novel technique based on surface‐EMG recordings and requires only 3–5 minutes per muscle. The objective was to explore the feasibility of longitudinal MUNIX measurements in ALS patients. In seven patients enrolled in a clinical trial, eight muscles were studied every 2 months for up to 15 months in addition to the revised ALS‐functional rating scale, slow vital capacity, and compound muscle action potentials. The method was well tolerated and easy to perform. Initial MUNIX measures were significantly reduced compared to controls (487 ± 194 vs. 1459 ± 113; P < 0.001). Relative drop from baseline paralleled the clinical course and was greater than the drop of other markers of disease progression. MUNIX measurements in multiple muscles are suitable for serial neurophysiologic investigations in ALS. Further longitudinal data are needed for reliability validation. Muscle Nerve, 2010
Prolonged 14‐day continuous infusion of high‐dose ifosfamide with an external portable pump: Feasibility and efficacy in refractory pediatric sarcoma
Authors: Meazza Cristina , Casanova Michela , Luksch Roberto , Podda Marta , Favini Francesca , Cefalo Graziella , Massimino Maura , Ferrari Andrea
Published: June 2010

Background

Ifosfamide is currently used to treat pediatric sarcomas and increasing its dosage may be associated with a better response rate. Prolonged continuous infusion seems an attractive administration modality.

Methods

Ifosfamide 14 g/m2 (with mesna 14 g/m2) was administered through an ambulatory portable pump over 14 days as a continuous infusion, starting every 3 weeks, in 14 patients with relapsing sarcomas. No growth factors were given.

Results

Acute grade 3 hematological toxicity was observed in only 13/66 cycles and red cell transfusions were given in two patients. Hematuria and dysuria occurred in three cases. The response rate was: five partial responses, five stable disease. The median time to progression was 3 months (range: 2–19 months). The best response rate was seen for synovial sarcoma and Ewing sarcoma.

Conclusion

Prolonged 14‐day continuous infusion of high‐dose ifosfamide is well tolerated. Potentially interesting preliminary responses in pediatric patients already treated with ifosfamide are reported. Pediatr Blood Cancer. 2010;55:617–620. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Clinical outcome in pediatric glial and embryonal brain tumors correlates with in vitro multi‐passageable neurosphere formation
Authors: Panosyan Eduard H. , Laks Dan R. , Masterman‐Smith Michael , Mottahedeh Jack , Yong William H. , Cloughesy Timothy F. , Lazareff Jorge A. , Mischel Paul S. , Moore Theodore B. , Kornblum Harley I.
Published: June 2010

Background

Cultured brain tumors can form neurospheres harboring tumorigenic cells with self renewal and differentiation capacities. Renewable neurosphere formation has clinical predictive value in adult malignant gliomas, yet its prognostic role for pediatric brain tumors is unknown.

Methods

Established neurosphere conditions were used for culturing samples from glial, embryonal and mixed glioneuronal tumors from 56 pediatric patients. Potential associations between neurosphere formation and clinical outcome were analyzed retrospectively.

Results

Thirty‐seven percent of all samples formed renewable neurospheres. Analysis of available clinical outcome data from 51 patients demonstrated significantly increased hazard ratios (HR) for both disease progression (HR = 9.9, P < 0.001) and death (HR = 16.6, P < 0.01) in the neurosphere forming group. Furthermore, neurosphere formation correlated with adverse progression free survival (PFS) in glial and embryonal tumors, but not in mixed glioneuronal tumors. Overall survival (OS) was significantly worse for neurosphere‐forming patients with embryonal tumors, as a group and amongst the subgroup with medulloblastoma, but not in the glial group. Multivariate analysis showed that neurosphere formation was associated with diminished PFS and OS independent of age, gender, or treatment. Neurosphere formation was an independent predictor of diminished PFS of glial tumors after adjusting for grade. Multivariate analysis, adjusting for both Ki67 staining and neurosphere formation, demonstrated that neurosphere formation remained predictive of progression whereas Ki67 did not.

Conclusions

Neurosphere formation is more predictive of pediatric brain tumor progression than semi‐quantitative Ki67 staining. Pediatric brain tumor derived neurospheres may provide a predictive model for preclinical explorations. Pediatr Blood Cancer. 2010;55:644–651. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Juvenile xanthogranuloma with hematological dysfunction treated with 2CDA‐AraC
Authors: Blouin Pascale , Yvert Marion , Arbion Flavie , Pagnier Anne , Emile Jean François , Eitenschenck Laurence , Machet Marie‐Christine , Plantaz Dominique , Colombat Philippe , Alla Corinne Armari , Donadieu Jean
Published: June 2010

Juvenile xanthogranuloma was diagnosed in two infants aged 8 and 2 months with skin lesions, hepatosplenomegaly, and pancytopenia. Disease control was not achieved with first‐line vinblastine–steroid–VP16 combination therapy. Two courses of 2‐chlorodeoxyadenosine (2CDA) (0.3 mg/kg) and cytosine arabinoside (AraC) (1 g/m2) were then administered for 5 days and were followed, after hematological recovery, by maintenance therapy. Both patients had normal complete blood cell counts and no signs of JXG, respectively, 31 and 24 months after diagnosis. Pediatr Blood Cancer. 2010;55:757–760. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Psychosocial functioning and career decision‐making in Israeli adolescent and young adult cancer survivors
Authors: Stern Marilyn , Krivoy Elena , Foster Rebecca H. , Bitsko Matthew , Toren Amos , Ben‐Arush Myriam
Published: June 2010

Objectives

This study examined how dispositional optimism, health vulnerability, and time perspective were related to adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer survivors' career decision‐making (CDM) and quality of life (QOL). Secondarily, how cultural factors relate to CDM and QOL among Israeli‐Jewish and Israeli‐Arab cancer survivors was explored.

Methods

Fifty‐one cancer survivors (68.6% females, 80.4% Israeli‐Jewish, 19.6% Israeli‐Arab, Mage = 21.45 years), at least 6 months post‐active treatment (Mtime = 5.75 years) completed self‐report questionnaires.

Results

Multiple regression analyses indicated that optimism, vulnerability, and past negative, present fatalistic, and future time perspective were significantly associated with QOL (F(6, 47) = 6.80, P < 0.001) and CDM (F(6, 47) = 2.46, P < 0.04). Perceived vulnerability explained the main portion of QOL variance with greater vulnerability associated with lowered QOL (β = 0.33, P < 0.001). Optimism was positively associated with QOL (β = 0.55, P < 0.02). Greater present fatalistic time perspective was associated with greater CDM difficulties (β = 0.32, P < 0.05). Multivariate analyses indicated greater past negative time perceptions (F(1, 46) = 8.92, P < 0.005) and fatalism about the future (F(1, 46) = 5.90, P < 0.02) among Israeli‐Arabs as compared to Israeli‐Jewish survivors. Israeli‐Jewish survivors were more optimistic than Israeli‐Arab survivors (F(1, 46) = 3.48, P < 0.065).

Conclusions

Vulnerability, optimism, and time perspective were significantly associated with QOL and CDM among Israeli AYA cancer survivors. Israeli‐Arabs viewed their pasts and futures more negatively and reported lower optimism than Israeli‐Jews. Implications for future research and interventions were considered. Pediatr Blood Cancer. 2010;55:708–713. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Acute megakaryocytic leukemia (AMKL,FAB;M7) with Beckwith–wiedemann syndrome
Authors: Yamamoto Shohei , Toyama Daisuke , Yatsuki Hitomi , Higashimoto Ken , Soejima Hidenobu , Isoyama Keiichi
Published: June 2010

Beckwith–Wiedemann syndrome (BWS) is characterized by an accumulation of multiple congenital anomalies. Although patients with BWS are known to have a higher incidence of embryonal tumors, there has been no reports associated with acute leukemia. This report describes the case of a patient with BWS who developed Acute Megakaryocytic Leukemia (AMKL,FAB;M7). Because most patients with BWS present gigantism, the therapy‐related toxicity of chemotherapy can be a very serious problem. This patient exhibited no therapy‐related toxicity after chemotherapy, suggesting that acute leukemia with BWS may not require a reduction in dosage. Pediatr Blood Cancer. 2010;55:733–735. © 2010 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Thermal, rheological, mechanical, and dyeing property studies of poly(ethylene‐co‐trimethylene terephthalate) copolymer filaments
Authors: Zou Hantao , Wang Luoxin , Yi Changhai , Liu Hongtao , Xu Weilin
Published: June 2010

The thermal and rheological properties of poly(ethylene‐co‐trimethylene terephthalate) (PETT) copolymer are investigated. The thermal behavior of PETT copolymers is dependent on the composition. The PETT‐15 and PETT‐85 copolymers can crystallize, whereas the PETT‐30 copolymer cannot crystallize at 5°C/min cooling rate. The copolymers have a good thermal stability, even though the addition of poly(trimethylene terephthalate) (PTT) chain causes a disadvantage to the thermal stability of the copolymers. Moreover, the PETT copolymers are a typical pseudoplastic fluid exhibiting shear thinning. With increasing the shear rate or the content of PTT units, the flow activation energy decreases and the sensitivity of the shear viscosity to the melt temperature declines. The PETT copolymer filaments have intermediate elastic recovery and dyeability between poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) and PTT filaments. With increasing the PTT content, the elastic recovery and dyeability of PETT copolymer filaments increase. That is to say, introducing PTT units as a minor component into the macromolecular chains is an available means to improve the properties of PET filament. The obtained PETT copolymer filaments blend the advantage of the mechanical property of PET and the elastic and dyeability of PTT filament together into one polymer and possess a softer feeling and a higher extension. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 50:1689–1695, 2010. © 2010 Society of Plastics Engineers
Nonisothermal crystallization kinetics of poly(lactic acid) formulations comprising talc with poly(ethylene glycol)
Authors: Li Ming , Hu Defu , Wang Yaming , Shen Changyu
Published: June 2010

The nonisothermal crystallization behavior of poly(lactic acid) (PLA) in the presence of talc with poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) was performed by using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and polarized optical microscopy. It was evidenced that talc together with PEG had a synergistic effect on enhancing the crystallization rate of PLA, despite the fact that the two additives had an opposite effect on the size and density of the spherulites. The nonisothermal crystallization data were analyzed by using three different kinetics models, namely, the Avrami, Ozawa, and Mo models. It was found that the Avrami method and the Mo model could describe the experimental data of the nonisothermal crystallization fairly well for all the specimens, whereas the Ozawa analysis failed to provide an adequate description of the nonisothermal crystallization of the PLA formulations comprising talc with PEG. The difference in the values of the Avrami exponent between neat PLA and its mixtures with talc and PEG suggested that the nonisothermal crystallization of the mixtures corresponds to a three‐dimensional growth with heterogeneous nucleation. The activation energy for nonisothermal crystallization of PLA formulations was evaluated based on the differential isoconversional method of Friedman. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2010. © 2010 Society of Plastics Engineers
Photovoltaics literature survey (No. 79)
Authors: Shrestha Santosh
Published: June 2010

In order to help keep readers up‐to‐date in the field each issue ofProgress in Photovoltaicswill contain a list of recently published journal articles most relevant to its aims and scope. This list is drawn from an extremely wide range of journals, includingIEEE Transactions on Electron Devices,Journal of Applied Physics,Applied Physics Letters, Progress in Photovoltaics, andSolar Energy Materials and Solar Cells. To assist the reader, the list is separated into broad categories, but please note that these classifications are by no means strict. Also note that inclusion in the list is not an endorsement of a paper's quality.

magnified image
Maßgeschneiderter optischer Raum. Transformationsoptik
Authors: Halimeh Jad C. , Ergin Tolga , Stenger Nicolas , Wegener Martin
Published: June 2010

Die Transformationsoptik erlaubt Verformungen des optischen Raums, die denen der Raumzeit in der Allgemeinen Relativitätstheorie bei Anwesenheit von Materie ähneln. Von Fata Morganas ist der Effekt kontinuierlich veränderlicher Brechzahlprofile vertraut. Doch erst die Theorie der Transformationsoptik erlaubt die systematische Entwicklung völlig neuer optischer Funktionen. Computersimulationen des Karlsruhe Institute of Technology zeigen, wie eine Tarnkappe und eine kugelförmige Strahlumlenkung funktionieren könnten – zwei Beispiele für die ungeahnten prinzipiellen Möglichkeiten der Transformationsoptik. Die experimentelle Umsetzung im optischen Spektralbereich stellt allerdings noch eine große Herausforderung dar.
The mechanisms of hydrolysis of N‐alkyl O‐arylthioncarbamate esters
Authors: Humeres Eduardo , de Souza Eduardo P. , Debacher Nito A.
Published: June 2010

The hydrolysis of N‐ethyl O‐p‐methoxyphenylthioncarbamate (EMeOT) at 50 °C was studied in the range of $H_o^X $ −3.6 to H− 13.7. The pH‐rate profile showed that the hydrolysis occurred through specific acid catalysis at pH <2, spontaneous hydrolysis at pH 2–3, and specific basic catalysis at pH >3. The excess acidity plot against X was linear with slope 0.93, and the Bunnett–Olsen coefficient was 0.07. The acid hydrolysis occurred by an A1 mechanism. The basic hydrolysis of EMeOT can be explained if the mechanism is E1cb. At pH >3 the rate constants increased, reaching a constant value indicating that the expulsion of the aryloxy is not concerted. The neutral species hydrolyzed with general base catalysis with Brønsted β = 0.63 ± 0.07. Water acted as a general base catalyst with (pseudo‐) first‐order rate constant kN = (2.6 ± 0.2) × 10−8 s−1, and inverse kinetic solvent isotope effect of $k_o^D /k_o^H = 2.76$ consistent with a transfer of the proton at a late transition state, as also supported by the highly negative entropy of activation (−31 cal K−1 mol−1). The polynomial expression of the proton inventory curve presented a minimum of the standard deviations that favors the assumption that there are three active protons. The N to O proton transfer to the water molecule forms an incipient hydron. The fractionation factor of the TS of the protons indicated that the hydron is ca. 68% developed at the transition state. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis and structural characterization of dendritic‐linear PMA‐APM‐r‐PS copolymers for a self‐assembled microporous matrix
Authors: Hsieh Shang‐Ju , Wang Cheng‐Chien , Chen Chuh‐Yung
Published: June 2010

A set of dendritic‐linear copolymers, poly(maleic anhydride‐grafted‐3,3′‐dimethyl‐(4‐aminophenylazanediyl)bis(2‐methylpropanoate))‐random‐polystyrene (PMA‐APM‐r‐PS), was successfully prepared by copolymerization of the novel dendritic macromonomer, 4‐(4‐(bis(3‐(4‐(bis(3‐methoxy‐2‐methyl‐3‐oxopropyl)amino)phenylamino)‐2‐methyl‐3‐oxopropyl)amino)phenylamino)‐4‐oxobut‐2‐enoic acid (MA‐APM), with styrene monomer. The dendritic MA‐APM macromonomer dendron 3,3′‐dimethyl‐(4‐aminophenylazanediyl)bis(2‐methylpropanoate) (APM) was then grafted by using the divergent growth method. FTIR, 1H NMR, and 13C NMR spectra were used to identify the structures of the dendron, the dendritic macromonomer, and the dendritic‐linear PMA‐APM‐r‐PS copolymer. Furthermore, microporous dendritic‐linear PMA‐APM‐r‐PS copolymer films were prepared by using solvent‐induced phase separation at room temperature. We investigated the phase separation behavior and morphological structures of the dendritic‐linear copolymer film as functions of dendritic GMA‐HPAM segments in the content using SEM. Self‐assembly of the dendritic‐linear PMA‐APM‐r‐PS copolymer in the MG2‐X system, which represented the second generation dendron containing X wt % of the dendritic MA‐APM segment, resulted in submicron phase segregation. Interestingly, the submicron phase segregation morphology of the MG2–43 sample presented a uniform size distribution of ordered‐array structures. The results of this study demonstrate that controlling the appropriate macromonomer content via the grafting of a three‐dimensional structure results in a self‐assembly process that is capable of providing an ordered‐array microporous morphology in a polymer film. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 48: 3290–3301, 2010
Well‐defined pH‐sensitive block glycopolymers via reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer radical polymerization: Synthesis, characterization, and recognition with lectin
Authors: Liu Li , Zhang Jiechun , Lv Wenhui , Luo Yan , Wang Xiaojuan
Published: June 2010

pH‐Sensitive block glycopolymers of poly(2‐(diethylamino)ethyl methacrylate) (PDEAEMA) and poly(3‐O‐methacryloy‐α,β‐D‐glucopyranose) (PMAGlc) were synthesized via reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) radical polymerization based on protected glycomonomer 3‐O‐methacryloyl‐1,2:5,6‐di‐O‐isopropylidene‐D‐glucofuranose (MAIpGlc). It was found that RAFT homopolymerization of MAIpGlc proceeded in a controlled fashion with 4‐cyanopentanoic acid dithiobenzoate as chain transfer agent. Using the dithioester‐capped PDEAEMA as macro‐RAFT agent, block copolymerization of MAIpGlc was in good control as indicated by the linear pseudo first‐order kinetic plot, the linear increment of number‐average molecular weights as well as narrow and symmetrical gel permeation chromatography peaks, and low polydispersities. Well‐defined diblock copolymers of DEAEMA and MAIpGlc were prepared successfully through the chain extension of PDEAEMA. The deprotection of MAIpGlc units in trifluoroacetic acid/H2O solution afforded PDEAEMA‐b‐PMAGlc block glycopolymer. The self‐assembly behavior of PDEAEMA‐b‐PMAGlc in aqueous solution was investigated by using 1H NMR, UV‐vis spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering, and transmission electron microscopy. The results demonstrated that spherical micelles with PDEAEMA as the hydrophobic cores and PMAGlc as the hydrophilic shells were formed in alkaline aqueous solution. These glucose‐installed micelles had specific recognition with Concanavalin A. The combination of pH‐sensitivity of PDEAEMA and biomolecular recognition of PMAGlc in one micellar system may create a multifunctional platform for targeted delivery, biomimetics, and biodection. © 2010 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 48: 3350–3361, 2010