bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modeling hexavalent chromium removal in a Bacillus sp. fixed‐film bioreactor
Authors: Nkhalambayausi‐Chirwa Evans M. , Wang Yi‐Tin
Published: August 2004

A one‐dimensional diffusion‐reaction model was developed to simulate Cr(VI) reduction in a Bacillus sp. pure culture biofilm reactor with glucose as a sole supplied carbon and energy source. Substrate utilization and Cr(VI) reduction in the biofilm was best represented by a system of (second‐order) partial differential equations (PDEs). The PDE system was solved by the (fourth‐order) Runge‐Kutta method adjusted for mass transport resistance using the (second‐order) Crank‐Nicholson and Backward Euler finite difference methods. A heuristic procedure (genetic search algorithm) was used to find global optimum values of Cr(VI) reduction and substrate utilization rate kinetic parameters. The fixed‐film bioreactor system yielded higher values of the maximum specific Cr(VI) reduction rate coefficient and Cr(VI) reduction capacity (kmc = 0.062 1/h, and Rc = 0.13 mg/mg, respectively) than previously determined in batch reactors (kmc = 0.022 1/h and Rc = 0.012 mg/mg). The model predicted effluent Cr(VI) concentration well with 98.9% confidence (σ = 2.37 mg2/L2, N = 119) and effluent glucose with 96.4 % confidence (σ = 5402 mg2/L2, N = 121, w = 100) over a wide range of Cr(VI) loadings (10–498 mg Cr(VI)/L/d). © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
An impedance study on admiralty brass dezincification originated by microbiologically influenced corrosion
Authors: Ibars J.R. , Polo J.L. , Moreno D.A. , Ranninger C. , Bastidas J.M.
Published: August 2004

In this article we describe a field study of biofouling and microbiologically influenced corrosion (MIC) of admiralty brass heat exchanger tubes in contact with running fresh water on the river Tagus close to Almaraz nuclear power plant in Spain. Dezincification originated by biofouling and MIC was studied using impedance, polarization resistance, gravimetric, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and X‐ray diffraction (XRD) measurements. Close correlation was observed between the biofilms formed and the corrosion process (dezincification) using the different experimental techniques. Impedance data showed a capacitive behavior including two time constants. Kramers‐Kronig (KK) transforms were used to validate impedance data. The admiralty tubes' impedance data satisfied the KK relations. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
In vitroeffects of high glucose concentrations on membrane protein oxidation, G‐actin and deformability of human erythrocytes
Authors: Resmi Halil , Akhunlar Hülya , Temiz Artmann Ayşegül , Güner Gül
Published: August 2004

The object of this study was to examine the effect of elevatedin vitroglucose concentrations on protein modification and functional changes in human erythrocytes. Groups were exposed to 5–45 mMglucose concentrations. The time effect of any changes was also evaluated. In erythrocyte ghosts, protein glycation and oxidation were evaluated using spectrophotometric methods. G‐actin was measured by a DNase I inhibition assay in cell lysates. Erythrocyte deformability was assessed using a cell transit analyser. At 24 h, a significant protein oxidation (at 25 and 45 mMglucose;p < 0.05), and G‐actin increase was observed for all concentrations (p < 0.05). At 48 h, a significant increase in glycation (25 and 45 mMglucose;p < 0.05), protein oxidation (p < 0.05), and G‐actin (p < 0.05) was observed in all groups. A significant positive correlation was observed between glucose /protein oxidation, glucose/G‐actin and protein oxidation/G‐actin at 24 and 48 h. Our findings show that the oxidative effect of glucose on erythrocytes depends on concentration and incubation time. We also present the first evidence of increased G‐actin in human erythrocytes exposed to high glucose concentrations as a diabetes model. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Protective effects of melatonin against carbon tetrachloride‐induced hepatotoxicity in rats: a light microscopic and biochemical study
Authors: Kus Ilter , Ogeturk Murat , Oner Hakan , Sahin Semsettin , Yekeler Hayrettin , Sarsilmaz Mustafa
Published: August 2004

The aim of this study was to examine the protective effects of melatonin against CCl4‐induced hepatotoxicity in the rat. Twenty‐four male Wistar rats were divided into three groups. Group I was used as a control. Rats in group II were injected every other day with CCl4 for 1 month, whereas rats in group III were injected every other day with CCl4 and melatonin for 1 month. At the end of the experiment, all animals were killed by decapitation and blood samples were obtained. Serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), total and conjugated bilirubin levels were determined. For histopathological evaluation, livers of all rats were removed and processed for light microscopy. All serum biochemical parameters were significantly higher in animals treated with CCl4 than in the controls. When rats injected with CCl4 were treated with melatonin, significantly reduced elevations in serum biochemical parameters were found. In liver sections of the CCl4‐injected group, necrosis, fibrosis, mononuclear cell infiltration, haemorrhage, fatty degeneration and formation of regenerative nodules were observed. Additionally, apoptotic figures, microvesicular steatosis and hydropic degeneration in hepatocytes were seen in this group. In contrast, the histopathological changes observed after administration of CCl4 were lost from rats treated with CCl4 and melatonin. Except for mild hydropic degeneration of the hepatocytes, a normal lobular appearance was seen in the livers of this group. The results of our study indicate that melatonin treatment prevents CCl4‐induced liver damage in rats. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Polarity Matching of Radical Trapping: High Yielding 3‐exo and 4‐exo Cyclizations
Authors: Gansäuer Andreas , Lauterbach Thorsten , Geich‐Gimbel Daniel
Published: August 2004

A catalyzed synthesis of cyclopropanes and cyclobutanes via radical chemistry is described. The method that generally proceeds in high yields uses epoxides as radical precursors and titanocene(III) complexes as the electron transfer catalysts (see scheme). The key to the success of the transformation is constituted by the chemoselectivity of radical reduction. Electrophilic enol radicals generated through cyclization are reduced rapidly whereas their precursors, nucleophilic alkyl radicals, remain unaffected.
Expression of Fas ligand in retinoblastoma
Authors: Krishnakumar Subramanian , Kandalam Mallikarjuna , Mohan Adithi , Iyer Anita , Venkatesan Nalini , Biswas Jyotirmay , Shanmugam Mahesh Palanivelu
Published: August 2004

BACKGROUND

The importance of the Fas‐Fas ligand (FasL) mechanism for the immune evasion by tumors provided a strong rationale for the examination of FasL expression in retinoblastoma. In an earlier publication, the authors reported that invasive retinoblastomas decreased Fas expression. Because to the authors' knowledge there is not much information regarding the effect of FasL expression on retinoblastoma, the authors studied the expression of FasL in retinoblastoma and correlated it with invasiveness.

METHODS

Thirty‐six archival retinoblastoma specimens were divided into 2 groups. Group A (n = 17) was comprised of specimens from tumors with no invasion and Group B (n = 19) was comprised of specimens from tumors with invasion of the choroid (focal, diffuse), optic nerve (laminar, postlaminar, surgical end), and orbit. Sections were immunostained with a monoclonal antibody to FasL and the immunoreactivity was assessed.

RESULTS

In Group A, FasL was negative in 100% (17 of 17) of the tumor specimens. In Group B, FasL was expressed in 79% (15 of 19) of the tumor specimens (positive in 9 tumors and heterogeneous in 6 tumors). The difference in FasL expression between the two groups was significant (P < 0.001)

CONCLUSIONS

Increased expression of FasL was observed in specimens taken from patients with aggressive tumors. Thus, Loss of Fas and gain of aberrant FasL expression were common features of malignant transformation. The data suggested that the Fas/FasL pathway is potentially immunosuppressive and may be involved in the escape of retinoblastoma cells from immune destruction. Cancer 2004. © 2004 American Cancer Society.
The superior prognostic value of humoral factors compared with molecular proliferation markers in renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Lehmann Jan , Retz Margitta , Nürnberg Nils , Schnöckel Uta , Raffenberg Uta , Krams Matthias , Kellner Udo , Siemer Stefan , Weichert‐Jacobsen Klaus , Stöckle Michael
Published: August 2004

BACKGROUND

The American Joint Committee on Cancer and the Union Internationale Contre le Cancer have acknowledged routine laboratory parameters, such as serum calcium, alkaline phosphatase, hemoglobin, and the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), as predictors of survival in patients with renal cell carcinoma. The predictive value of these parameters compared with proliferation markers, such as Ki‐67, proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), topoisomerase II‐α, and p100, has not been determined.

METHODS

Forty‐eight consecutive patients who underwent nephrectomy for nonmetastatic renal cell carcinoma between 1990 and 1994 were observed up to 120 months postoperatively. Ten of 48 patients developed tumor progression 6–69 months after surgery. Routine preoperative laboratory parameters as well as tumor‐specific data were assessed. Findings were compared with tumor proliferation indices, which were obtained by immunohistochemical staining for nuclear antigens Ki‐67, PCNA, topoisomerase II‐α, and p100 in paraffin embedded tumor tissue.

RESULTS

Univariate and multivariate statistical analyses demonstrated superiority of routine laboratory values compared with tumor proliferation indices in predicting progression‐free survival and disease‐specific death. The best predictor after tumor size and symptomatic presentation was ESR (P< 0.0001), with ESR values > 70 mm at 2 hours indicating a significantly poorer prognosis. Only the proliferation marker Ki‐67 reached univariate significance at a threshold of 7%.

CONCLUSIONS

Routine laboratory parameters, such as alkaline phosphatase, lactate dehydrogenase, thrombocyte count, and especially ESR, provided superior long‐term prognostic information for patients with nonmetastatic renal cell carcinoma compared with the molecular tumor proliferation markers Ki‐67, PCNA, topoisomerase II‐α, and p100. Cancer 2004. © 2004 American Cancer Society.
Regulatory T‐cells in type 1 diabetes
Authors: Juedes Amy E. , von Herrath Matthias G.
Published: August 2004

Type 1 diabetes is a T‐cell‐mediated autoimmune disease, resulting in destruction of the insulin‐producing beta cells in the pancreas. Disease progression is thought to involve the action of T‐cells, particularly those producing Th1‐type cytokines. Given the complexity in understanding the precise etiology of autoimmune diseases, the diversity of autoantigens, and the variability that exists between individual patients, it might be very difficult to eliminate autoaggressive T‐cell responses without resorting to generalized means of immunosuppression. However, recent evidence shows that autoimmune processes are composed not only of autoaggressive T‐cell responses but also of autoreactive regulatory components. Enhancing regulatory T‐cell responses, therefore, has become an area of intense focus as a means of treating autoimmune diseases like type 1 diabetes. This review will concentrate on two different types of regulatory T‐cells, the naturally occurring (‘professional’) CD4+CD25+ T‐cells and antigen‐induced (‘adaptive’) CD4+ Th2‐like regulatory T‐cells. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Tol2 transposon‐mediated enhancer trap to identify developmentally regulated zebrafish genes in vivo
Authors: Parinov Serguei , Kondrichin Igor , Korzh Vladimir , Emelyanov Alexander
Published: August 2004

We have used the Tol2 transposable element to design and perform effective enhancer trapping in zebrafish. Modified transposon DNA and transposase RNA were delivered into zebrafish embryos by microinjection to produce heritable insertions in the zebrafish genome. The enhancer trap construct carries the EGFP gene controlled by a partial epithelial promoter from the keratin8 gene. Enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) is used as a marker to select F1 transgenic fish and as a reporter to trap enhancers. We have isolated 28 transgenic lines that were derived from the 37 GFP‐positive F0 founders and displayed various specific EGFP expression patterns in addition to basal expression from the modified keratin 8 promoter. Analyses of expression by whole‐mount RNA in situ hybridization demonstrated that these patterns could recapitulate the expression of the tagged genes to a variable extent and, therefore, confirmed that our construct worked effectively as an enhancer trap. Transgenic offspring from the 37 F0 EGFP‐positive founders have been genetically analyzed up to the F2 generation. Flanking sequences from 65 separate transposon insertion sites were identified by thermal asymmetric interlaced polymerase chain reaction. Injection of the transposase RNA into transgenic embryos induced remobilization of genomic Tol2 copies producing novel insertions including some in the germ line. The approach has great potential for developmental and anatomical studies of teleosts. Developmental Dynamics 231:449–459, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Development of a statistical approach to classifying treatment response in individual children with ADHD
Authors: Mollica Catherine M. , Maruff Paul , Vance Alasdair
Published: August 2004

The use of cognitive tests as measures of treatment response in individual children with ADHD has not been adequately evaluated or commonly applied by clinicians. This is most likely due to a lack of suitable assessment tasks as well as clinicians' limited awareness of the appropriate statistical techniques for analysing cognitive change in individuals. This study investigated the application of statistical decision rules to the cognitive and behavioural measures of individual children with ADHD in order to classify a significant, positive response to medication. The previously reported data of 14 children with ADHD (combined type; ADHD‐CT) were re‐analysed to investigate changes in function following a low‐ and high‐dose of stimulant medication (2.5 mg and 7.5 mg dexamphetamine, respectively). The performances of 14 age‐, gender‐ and IQ‐matched controls was also analysed to provide an estimate of the false‐positive classification rate. Overall, the decision rule yielded a high sensitivity and high specificity to treatment response. In the high‐dose condition, 71% of children with ADHD demonstrated improvements in both cognitive and behavioural function. This study demonstrates an evidence‐based approach to evaluating concurrent cognitive and behavioural improvement in individual children with ADHD following treatment with stimulant medication. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Expression of matrix metalloproteinase‐2 and ‐9 in exudates associated with polydimethyl siloxane and gelatin tubes implanted in mice
Authors: Xu Ping , Sefton Michael V.
Published: August 2004

The expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), MMP‐2 and ‐9, during the inflammatory response to two implanted biomaterials was determined. To illustrate this phenomenon, polydimethyl siloxane (PDMS), weakly crosslinked gelatin, and highly crosslinked gelatin tubes were implanted subcutaneously in mice for up to 3 weeks. Latent MMP‐2 (pro‐MMP‐2) was seen in exudates throughout the experimental period and did not show any apparent changes in time or among the three biomaterials. The expression of MMP‐9, however, showed a very different pattern. At days 4 and 8, the predominant form of MMP‐9 is pro‐MMP‐9 (the latent form) and its level is much higher for the PDMS tube than either of the gelatin tubes. The active form of MMP‐9, initially low, rose progressively over the 3‐week period and reached its peak at week 2 for PDMS and highly crosslinked gelatin and at week 3 for the more degradable, weakly crosslinked gelatin. Data from the histological and cytological analysis also showed that the PDMS tube induced a much stronger cellular response than gelatin tubes, although endotoxin contamination precludes a conclusion related to biomaterial effects. We concluded that MMP‐9 is a useful marker of the host inflammatory response to the implanted biomaterials and it may be useful in the assessment of biomaterial biocompatibility. Perhaps more importantly, the consequences of MMPs on matrix remodeling may become of concern in biomaterials used for tissue engineering. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res 71A: 226–232, 2004
Synthesis and degradation of sodium iron phosphate glasses and their in vitro cell response
Authors: Parsons A. J. , Evans M. , Rudd C. D. , Scotchford C. A.
Published: August 2004

The degradation profiles of six sodium iron phosphate glass formulations have been investigated using simple dissolution trials in deionized water. The glasses were produced from the appropriate phosphate salts by melting at 1200°C in 5% Au/95% Pt crucibles. Dissolution rates varied from 0.2 gcm−2h−1 for the 1% Fe glass to essentially zero over the 6‐week test period for the 15% Fe and 20% Fe glasses. The overall degradation rate was found to vary according to the approximate relation: rate = 1.3e−0.79x gcm−2h−1, where x is the percentage iron content of the glass. Glasses with 10% or greater iron content were observed to maintain a constant density over the course of the tests and thus appeared to degrade from the surface and not the bulk. In vitro cell response tests were conducted on the glasses using macrophages and primary craniofacial osteoblasts. These tests were performed on the glasses with 10% or greater iron content because glasses with lower iron content degraded too quickly. Confocal microscopy revealed a rounded macrophage morphology and IL‐1β production was low, suggesting little macrophage activation. However, a significant level of peroxide production was observed. Osteoblasts were observed to attach to the glass surfaces and spread, exhibiting a similar cytosketetal organization to the cells on the Thermanox controls, with a high level of F‐actin organization. On balance, the 15% Fe glass performed slightly better than the 20% Fe glass in these assays. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res 71A: 283–291, 2004
Effects of chitosan nonwoven membrane on periodontal healing of surgically created one‐wall intrabony defects in beagle dogs
Authors: Yeo Young‐Ju , Jeon Dong‐Won , Kim Chang‐Sung , Choi Seong‐Ho , Cho Kyoo‐Sung , Lee Yong‐Keun , Kim Chong‐Kwan
Published: August 2004

The purpose of this study was to investigate the periodontal regenerative effects of a chitosan nonwoven membrane applied to surgically created preclinical one‐wall intrabony defects in beagle dogs. One‐wall intrabony defects (4 × 4 × 4 mm) were surgically created bilaterally in the mandibular second and fourth premolars of six beagle dogs. The surgical control group received a flap operation only. The resorbable‐membrane (RM) group was treated with resorbable membrane. The chitosan‐nonwoven‐membrane (CNWM) group was treated with chitosan nonwoven membrane. The amount of junctional epithelium migration and the amount of connective tissue adhesion did not show any statistically significant differences among the groups. However, the amount of suprabony cementum regeneration, intrabony cementum regeneration, and alveolar bone regeneration showed significant differences (p < 0.05) between CNWM site group and control group. The results demonstrate the regenerative effects of the chitosan nonwoven membrane in one‐wall intrabony defects of beagle dogs. The chitosan nonwoven membrane has the potential to support the cementum and bone regeneration, possibly by providing the conditions needed for guided tissue regeneration in the one‐wall intrabony periodontal defects of beagle dogs. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater 72B: 86–93, 2005
Evaluation of the effect of fluoride‐containing acetic acid on NiTi wires
Authors: Kwon Yong Hoon , Cho Ho‐Sung , Noh Dong‐Jin , Kim Hyung‐Il , Kim Kyo‐Han
Published: August 2004

The possibility of the formation of hydrofluoric acid by the reaction of fluoride with acetic acid seems natural in the oral cavity. The effect of an acidic fluoride solution on NiTi wires was investigated by testing microhardness and color changes on wires. For aesthetic reasons, the color change on wires was also evaluated. Wires were immersed in four different test solutions for 1 or 3 days. As‐received wires were used as a reference. After immersion for 3 days, the microhardness of the tested wires increased 1.8% to 10.4% compared to that of their as‐received state. Wires immersed in a higher NaF concentration, lower pH solution with longer immersion yielded a more corroded surface than those of the counter cases. Wires showed a different color after immersion. However, after 3 days in solutions of pH 4, wires showed an appreciable color change regardless of the products. In test solutions, 3M wires showed the highest volumetric and percentage (0.59 for 0.05%; 1.19 for 0.2% solution) weight loss and G&H wires showed the least volumetric and percentage (0.43 for 0.05%; 1.05 for 0.2% solution) weight loss among tested wires. In pH 6 solutions, wires lost weight and were under the detection limit of the testing machine. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater 72B: 102–108, 2005
Water content and apparent stiffness of non‐caries versus caries‐affected human dentin
Authors: Ito Shuichi , Saito Takashi , Tay Franklin R. , Carvalho Ricardo M. , Yoshiyama Masahiro , Pashley David H.
Published: August 2004

Caries‐affected dentin contains less mineral and more water than surrounding normal dentin. Such dentin should be less stiff and should shrink more than normal dentin when dried. The purpose of this study was to test the relationships between the stiffness, shrinkage, and water content of caries‐affected versus normal dentin. Extracted human carious third molars were stained with caries‐detector dye and the occlusal surfaces ground down until only caries‐affected dentin remained, surrounded by normal dentin. Dentin disks were prepared from these crowns placed in a aluminum well positioned under a modified thermal mechanical analyzer. Changes in specimen height and stiffness were measured following drying or static loading in both caries‐affected and surrounding normal dentin. Core samples of these two types of dentin were used to gravimetrically measure water content. Two‐way ANOVA and regression analysis was used to test the relationship between shrinkage versus water content, stiffness versus water content, and stiffness versus shrinkage. Caries‐affected dentin was found to be less stiff and contained more water than normal dentin (p < 0.05). Regression analysis revealed highly significant inverse relationships between stiffness and water content, and stiffness and shrinkage (p < 0.0005). © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res Part B: Appl Biomater 72B: 109–116, 2005
IGF‐I mRNA levels in bovine satellite cell cultures: Effects of fusion and anabolic steroid treatment
Authors: Kamanga‐Sollo E. , Pampusch M.S. , Xi G. , White M.E. , Hathaway M.R. , Dayton W.R.
Published: August 2004

Androgenic and estrogenic steroids enhance muscle growth in a number of species; however, the mechanism by which anabolic steroids enhance muscle growth is not known. Castrated male cattle (steers) provide a particularly good model system in which to study the effects of anabolic steroids on muscle growth because they respond dramatically to treatment with both estrogens and androgens. The goal of this study was to determine if treatment of bovine satellite cell (BSC) cultures with 17β‐estradiol (E2) or trenbolone (a synthetic androgen) directly affects proliferation rate or level of mRNA for estrogen receptor (ER)‐α, androgen receptor, and growth factors that have been shown to affect muscle growth (insulin‐like growth factor (IGF)‐I, IGF binding protein (IGFBP)‐3, and myostatin). BSC cultures were established from the semimembranosus muscles of steers and then treated for 48 h with various concentrations of E2 or trenbolone ranging from 0.001 to 10 nM. IGF‐I mRNA levels in proliferating BSC cultures were significantly increased at 0.01 (1.9‐times control values, P < 0.02) and at 0.1, 1, and 10 nM E2 (2.9‐, 3.5‐, and 3.5‐times control values, respectively, P < 0.0001). Additionally both 1 and 10 nM trenbolone increased IGF‐I mRNA levels to 1.7‐times control values (P < 0.02). ER‐α mRNA was detectable in BSC cultures, and levels were increased (2.3‐times control levels, P < 0.001) in cultures treated with 0.001 nM E2 but not in cultures treated with higher concentrations of E2. Androgen receptor mRNA levels also were increased (1.5‐times control levels, P < 0.02) in cultures treated with 0.001 nM trenbolone but not by treatment with higher concentrations of trenbolone. Levels of IGFBP‐3 were increased (1.4‐times control values, P < 0.02) by treatment with 0.001 nM E2 but not by treatment with high concentrations of E2. Myostatin mRNA levels were not affected by any concentration of either of the steroids. Although, levels of IGF‐I mRNA were 10‐times greater (P < 0.02) in fused BSC cultures than in proliferating cultures, treatment of fused cultures for 48 h with 10 nM E2 increased IGF‐I mRNA levels (2.5‐times control levels, P < 0.02). Both E2 and trenbolone increased 3H‐thymidine incorporation rate (1.5‐times control levels, P < 0.001) in BSC cultures in media containing serum from which IGFBP‐3 had been removed by anti‐IGFBP‐3 affinity chromatography. In summary, treatment of BSC cultures with either E2 or trenbolone increased IGF‐I mRNA level and proliferation rate, thus, establishing that these steroids have direct anabolic effects on cells present in the BSC culture. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Kaposi's sarcoma: An update
Authors: Schwartz Robert A.
Published: August 2004

While there have been many important advances in the study of Kaposi's sarcoma (KS), it remains both a challenge and an enigma in many ways. Kaposi's original description of “multiple idiopathic hemorrhagic sarcoma[s]” in patients who died within 2–3 years resembles KS in AIDS more than classic KS in elderly men of Italian, Jewish, or Mediterranean lineage, in whom the disease is usually benign. KS had been evident in about one‐third of those with early AIDS, often as its presenting sign, a pattern markedly reduced in recent times since the introduction of highly active anti‐retroviral therapy (HAART). The most important advance has been the convincing etiologic linkage of KS with human herpesvirus 8 (HHV‐8), which is necessary but not sufficient. It has a low prevalence in the general population of the USA and UK, with an intermediate rate in Italy and Greece, and a high one in Uganda. KS risk may be significantly lower in AIDS patients with a history of anti‐herpes therapy. Many aspects of HHV‐8, including its transmission pattern and different genospecies, are being scrutinized. The diagnosis of KS may be difficult. One should be aware of KS clinical variants, including telangiectatic, eccymotic, and keloidal KS. One must consider a number of other disorders, including bacillary angiomatosis. HHV‐8 DNA sequences in dermatofibromas and other tumors should probably not be viewed as representing a marker for KS. Therapeutic options vary for KS. Intralesional and low‐dose outpatient intravenous vinblastine may be valuable, as immunosuppression with KS is not a good idea if it can be avoided. Anti‐herpes virus therapy may have potential for wide use, especially in preventing the development of KS in at risk populations, such as HHV‐8 seropositive individuals undergoing transplantation surgery. J. Surg. Oncol. 2004;87:146–151. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Clinical patterns and treatment outcome of elderly patients in clinical stage IB/II non‐small cell lung cancer
Authors: Okamoto Tatsuro , Maruyama Riichiroh , Shoji Fumihiro , Ikeda Jiro , Miyamoto Tetsuya , Nakamura Tomomi , Asoh Hiroshi , Ichinose Yukito
Published: August 2004

Background and Objectives

Surgery is a standard treatment in patients with clinical stage IB/II non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). We often have difficulty in treating of elderly patients due to their insufficient physiological function. To better manage such elderly patients, the clinical characteristics and prognosis of patients with these stages, who were 75 years of age or older, were reviewed.

Methods

From 1972 to 1999, 112 elderly patients with these stages were treated in our department. These patients comprised 88 men and 24 women. The histological types were 50 adenocarcinomas, 51 squamous cell carcinomas, 8 large cell carcinomas, and 3 adenosquamous carcinomas.

Results

Seventy‐four patients (66%) underwent a surgical resection, including 60 surgery alone, 14 combined modality therapy. Radiotherapy, with or without chemotherapy, was given to 30 patients (27%), and chemotherapy alone to 5 (4.5%). In addition, 3 (2.7%) were given no therapy. The survivals of the surgery group at 2 and 5 years are 53% and 21% and those of the radiotherapy group are 35% and 3%, respectively. A multivariate analysis in radiotherapy group shows the predominant prognostic factor to be adenocarcinoma. The 2‐year survival of the radiotherapy group in patients with adenocarcinoma is 58%, while that of patients with squamous cell carcinoma is 22%.

Conclusions

These above observations suggest that radiotherapy is an alternative strategy for patients who cannot undergo surgery, especially with adenocarcinoma. J. Surg. Oncol. 2004;87:134–138. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Clear cell sarcoma in the era of sentinel lymph node mapping
Authors: Al‐Refaie Waddah B. , Ali Mir W. , Chu David Z. , Paz Isaac B. , Blair Sarah L.
Published: August 2004

Clear cell sarcoma of the tendons and aponeuroses (CCSTA) are rare aggressive soft tissue tumors with tendency for lymph nodes dissemination. Lymph node involvement is a correlate for prognosis. We present three patients with CCSTA in whom simultaneous sentinel lymph biopsy (SLNB) and resection was performed. Sentinel lymph node mapping may have a role in clear cell sarcoma from a prognostic standpoint. Further investigations are needed for validation. J. Surg. Oncol. 2004;87:126–129. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Management of hepatocellular carcinoma in renal transplant recipients
Authors: Chok Kenneth S. , Lam Chi Ming , Li Fu Keung , Ng Kelvin K. , Poon Ronnie T. , Lo Chung Mau , Fan Sheung Tat
Published: August 2004

Background and Objective

In Hong Kong where hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection is endemic, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) accounts for 20% of all malignant transformations in renal transplant recipients. The aim of the present study was to review the management and outcome of HCC in renal transplant recipients at a specialized surgical center.

Method

A retrospective analysis on the data collected prospectively in a tertiary referral center.

Results

From January 1991 to December 2002, five renal transplant recipients were diagnosed to have primary HCC and received treatment in our center. There were four men and one woman with a median age of 47 (range, 38–68) years. Four of them had cadaveric renal transplantation whereas one had live donor transplantation. All of them were HBV carriers. The median tumor size was 3.5 cm (range, 1.8–8 cm). All tumors, except one, were diagnosed in sub‐clinical stage by surveillance serum α‐fetoprotein assay and percutaneous ultrasonography. Four patients were treated with surgical resection and one received transarterial oily chemoembolization (TOCE) as their primary treatments. There was one peri‐operative death and the remaining three surgically treated patients were alive 4, 62, and 64 months after the resection. One patient developed recurrence 18 months after curative resection and was treated with TOCE. The patient with unresectable disease was alive for 50 months after the initial diagnosis. The surgical resection and overall survival rates of these patients were better than the published results.

Conclusion

Early detection with regular serum α‐fetoprotein assay and ultrasonographic study, vigilant care in the peri‐operative period, long‐term follow‐up for detection and treatment of recurrence, as well as close collaboration between renal physicians and liver surgeons may improve the outcome of treatment of HCC in renal transplant recipients. J. Surg. Oncol. 2004;87:139–142. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Anti‐Ri antibody opsoclonus‐myoclonus syndrome and breast cancer: A case report and a review of the literature
Authors: Weizman David A. , Leong Wey L.
Published: August 2004

Opsoclonus‐myoclonus is a rare neurological paraneoplastic syndrome associated with breast cancer and the presence of anti‐Ri antibody. We presented a case of a 79‐year‐old woman with this syndrome and a small invasive ductal carcinoma [pT1aN0(sn)M0], whose symptoms improved 3 months following her simple mastectomy without any adjuvant therapy. Based on the 15 previously reported cases in the literature, there is no uniform treatment option available, and the response to such treatments is mixed. J. Surg. Oncol. 2004;87:143–145. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Intra‐abdominal metastases from soft tissue sarcoma
Authors: Behranwala Kasim A. , Roy Pratik , Giblin Victoria , A'hern Roger , Fisher Cyril , Thomas J. Meirion
Published: August 2004

Objective

To define the clinical features and prognosis of patients with abdominal metastasis from primary soft tissue sarcoma (STS) at other sites.

Methods

All patients with abdominal metastasis from STS were identified from the Royal Marsden Hospital Sarcoma Unit prospective database from January 1990 to July 2001.

Results

Nineteen patients developed abdominal metastasis out of a cohort of 2127 patients (0.9%) evaluated during the study interval. The median age was 49 (19–71) years. The median time to abdominal metastasis from diagnosis of the primary was 27 (8–91) months. The presenting complaints were incomplete intestinal obstruction (n = 5), abdominal pain (n = 4), mass (n = 2), gastrointestinal bleed (n = 2), urinary obstruction (n = 2), anorexia (n = 1), and abdominal distension (n = 1). Emergency laparotomy was done for perforative peritonitis (n = 2), intussusception (n = 2), and bleed in spleen (n = 1). Two patients were asymptomatic. The common histologies were myxoid liposarcoma (n = 6) and leiomyosarcoma (n = 4). The median follow‐up of survivors post metastasis was 12 months. Abdominal metastatectomy was performed in 16 patients, 3 of these patients had abdominal recurrences. The 1‐ and 2‐year overall disease specific survival for the 19 patients was 66% (SE = 11%) and 43% (SE = 13%) with a median survival of 13 months (95% CI = 11.8–14.7). Metastasectomy was associated with slight improved median post‐metastasis survival (33 months vs. 8 months for unresected patients).

Conclusions

Although abdominal metastasis is rare, vigilance is warranted. Symptomatic patients should be examined and investigated thoroughly for metastases. Surgery is the treatment of choice for patients with an acute presentation; however, survival is dismal. J. Surg. Oncol. 2004;87:116–120. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Primary sarcoma of the breast
Authors: Pandey Manoj , Mathew Aleyamma , Abraham Elizabeth K. , Rajan Balakrishnan
Published: August 2004

Background and Objectives

Primary sarcoma occurring in breast is rare and comprises 0.5–1% of all breast neoplasm. Majority of the series include both stromal and cystosarcoma phyllodes, only a few hundred cases of sarcomas other then cystosarcoma are reported.

Patients and Methods

We carried out a retrospective analysis of 19 patients with primary sarcoma of the breast treated between 1982 and 2002.

Results

Mean age of the patients was 38.6 years (12–70 years). Gradually progressive swelling was the commonest presenting feature. There were eight cases of angiosarcoma, four cases of spindle cell sarcoma, two each of pleomorphic sarcoma and stromal sarcoma, and one each of malignant fibrous histiocytoma, embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma, and sarcoma (NOS). Eight of these were high‐grade (42%). Eight patients underwent either radical or modified mastectomy, three underwent wide excisions, and one underwent quadrantectomy. Ten (52.6%) patients received postoperative adjuvant radiation. Two patients received chemotherapy. After a mean follow‐up time of 34.5 months (median 25 months), eight patients failed. Failure was local in five, opposite breast in one, and both local and distant in two. The disease free survival at 3‐year was 39%. In univariate analysis only the margin of first surgery was found to be a significant predictor of survival (P = 0.05).

Conclusions

Primary sarcomas of the breast are aggressive tumors. Surgical treatment should consist of at least simple mastectomy. All attempts should be made to achieve a negative margin as this appears to be the only factor influencing survival in these patients. J. Surg. Oncol. 2004;87:121–125. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
An Overview of Polylactides as Packaging Materials
Authors: Auras Rafael , Harte Bruce , Selke Susan
Published: August 2004

Summary: Polylactide polymers have gained enormous attention as a replacement for conventional synthetic packaging materials in the last decade. By being truly biodegradable, derived from renewable resources and by providing consumers with extra end‐use benefits such as avoiding paying the “green tax” in Germany or meeting environmental regulations in Japan, polylactides (PLAs) are a growing alternative as a packaging material for demanding markets. The aim of this paper is to review the production techniques for PLAs, summarize the main properties of PLA and to delineate the main advantages and disadvantages of PLA as a polymeric packaging material. PLA films have better ultraviolet light barrier properties than low density polyethylene (LDPE), but they are slightly worse than those of cellophane, polystyrene (PS) and poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET). PLA films have mechanical properties comparable to those of PET and better than those of PS. PLA also has lower melting and glass transition temperatures than PET and PS. The glass transition temperature of PLA changes with time. Humidity between 10 and 95% and storage temperatures of 5 to 40 °C do not have an effect on the transition temperature of PLA, which can be explained by its low water sorption values (i.e. <100 ppm at Aw = 1). PLA seals well at temperatures below the melting temperature but an appreciable shrinking of the films has been noted when the material is sealed near its melting temperature. Solubility parameter predictions indicate that PLA will interact with nitrogen compounds, anhydrides and some alcohols and that it will not interact with aromatic hydrocarbons, ketones, esters, sulfur compounds or water. The CO2, O2 and water permeability coefficients of PLA are lower than those of PS and higher than those of PET. Its barrier to ethyl acetate and D‐limonene is comparable to PET. The amount of lactic acid and its derivatives that migrate to food simulant solutions from PLA is much lower than any of the current average dietary lactic acid intake values allowed by several governmental agencies. Thus, PLA is safe for use in fabricating articles for contact with food.

Percent transmission versus wavelength for PLA(98% L‐lactide), PS, LDPE, PET and cellophane films.

image

Percent transmission versus wavelength for PLA(98% L‐lactide), PS, LDPE, PET and cellophane films.
A New Method for the Evaluation of Biodegradable Plastic Using Coated Cellulose Paper
Authors: Lim Hyun‐A. , Raku Takao , Tokiwa Yutaka
Published: August 2004

Summary: A highly sensitive analytical method for evaluation of poly(L‐lactide) (PLA), poly(ε‐caprolactone) (PCL), poly(β‐hydroxybutyrate) (PHB), and poly(butylene succinate) (PBS) degradability was developed using coated cellulose paper, prepared by penetration and adhesion of these plastics into/onto the cellulose paper. Enzymatic degradability of the obtained plastic coated papers was evaluated using various commercial proteases and lipases. PLA coated paper was highly susceptible to subtilisin and mammalian enzymes, α‐chymotrypsin, elastase and trypsin. To our knowledge, this is the first report on the degradation of PLA coated paper using subtilisin and mammalian enzymes. Almost all lipase preparations degraded PCL and PHB coated papers but not PBS coated paper. The biodegradability of plastic coated paper was greater than that of plastic powder. The penetration of plastic into cellulose paper by coating improved the plastic degradability, and can be regulated easily.

Model structures of the plastic coated papers prepared by penetration (A) and adhesion (B) used in the enzyme degradation studies.

image

Model structures of the plastic coated papers prepared by penetration (A) and adhesion (B) used in the enzyme degradation studies.
Macromolecular Dimensions and Mechanical Properties of Monolayer Films of Sonorean Mesquite Gum
Authors: López‐Franco Yolanda L. , Valdez Miguel A. , Hernández Javier , Calderón de la Barca Ana M. , Rinaudo Marguerite , Goycoolea Francisco M.
Published: August 2004

Summary: Mesquite gum sourced from Prosopis velutina trees and gum arabic (Acacia spp.) were characterized using light scattering and Langmuir isotherms. Both gum materials were fractionated by hydrophobic interaction chromatography, yielding four fractions for both gums: FI, FIIa, FIIb and FIII in mesquite gum and FI, FII, FIIIa and FIIIb in gum arabic. In mesquite gum, the obtained fractions had different protein content (7.18–38.60 wt.‐%) and macromolecular dimensions ($\overline M _{\rm w}$ ≈ 3.89 × 105–8.06 × 105 g · mol−1, RG ≈ 48.83–71.11 nm, RH ≈ 9.61–24.06 nm) and architecture given by the structure factor (RG/RH ratio ≈2.96–5.27). The mechanical properties of Langmuir monolayers at the air‐water interface were very different on each gum and their fractions. For mesquite gum, the most active species at the interface were those comprised in Fractions IIa and IIb and III, while Fraction I the π/A isotherm lied below that of the whole gum. In gum arabic only Fraction III developed greater surface pressure at the same surface per milligram of material than whole gum. This is rationalized in terms of structural differences in both materials. Mesquite gum tertiary structure seems to fit best with an elongated polydisperse macrocoil in agreement with the “twisted hairy rope” proposal for arabinogalactan proteoglycans.

Compression isotherms of gum arabic and mesquite gum.

image

Compression isotherms of gum arabic and mesquite gum.
Cell Attachment and Proliferation on Poly(carbonate urethanes) with Various Degrees of Nanophase Separation
Authors: Hsu Shan‐hui , Kao Yu‐Chih
Published: August 2004

Summary: In this work, we synthesized six 4,4′‐diphenylmethane diisocyanate (MDI)‐based poly(carbonate urethanes) (PCU) by using the macrodiol poly(1,6‐hexyl, 1,2‐ethyl carbonate) diol (MW = 2 017) in different molar ratios to MDI. The bulk and surface properties of cast PCU films were analyzed. The glass transition temperatures measured by dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) and surface images obtained from atomic force microscopy (AFM) indicated that these PCU had various degrees of nanophase separation that changed with the time and film casting temperatures. The degree of nanophase separation correlated very well with endothelial cell attachment and proliferation on PCU.

Phase image (left) and light micrograph (right) of a PCU.

image

Phase image (left) and light micrograph (right) of a PCU.
Formation and Degradation of Poly(D,L‐lactide) Nanoparticles and Their Potential Application as Controllable Releasing Devices
Authors: Zhao Yue , Fu Jie , Ng Dennis K. P. , Wu Chi
Published: August 2004

Summary: In the presence of surfactant, water‐insoluble poly(D,L‐lactide) (PLA) was dispersed into narrowly distributed nanoparticles stable in water via microphase inversion. The structure and degradation of such formed nanoparticles were investigated by a combination of static and dynamic laser light scattering. Our results revealed that the degradation rate increased with the temperature and pH so that the degradation could be regulated from minutes to days. Using anionic sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) as stabilizer resulted in a slower degradation than using cationic hexadecyltrimethylammonium bromide (HTAB). The phthalocyanine chromophores (PC) could be encapsulated inside these PLA nanoparticles. The degradation of individual PLA nanoparticles led to a controllable releasing of PC. The absorption and fluorescence studies revealed a correlation between the degradation and the releasing of PC. Our results showed that a higher PC/PLA ratio could lead to a faster degradation.

Hydrodynamic radius distributions f(Rh) of PLA‐SDS and PLA‐HTAB nanoparticles.

image

Hydrodynamic radius distributions f(Rh) of PLA‐SDS and PLA‐HTAB nanoparticles.
Properties of Polyimide/Silica Nanohybrids from Silicic Acid Oligomer
Authors: Wang Haitao , Zhong Wei , Xu Peng , Du Qiangguo
Published: August 2004

Summary: A new method to synthesize polyimide (PI)/silica nanohybrids has been presented. It uses silicic acid oligomer as the silica precursor, which was obtained by extracting with tetrahydrofuran (THF) from PH‐adjusted water glass. The films of PI/silica nanohybrids remained transparent even at high silica content due to the formation of nanometer‐scaled SiO2 particles at the addition of γ‐aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES). In comparison with pure PI, PI/silica hybrids showed improved thermal stability and mechanical properties, and lower linear coefficients of thermal expansion (CTEs). The glass transition temperatures of the hybrids were increased with increasing content of silica or APTES as a result of the increasing limitation to the movements of the PI backbone.

SEM photograph of PI 20/4.

magnified image

SEM photograph of PI 20/4.
Formaldehyde Resins Bearing Diaminodiphenylmethane Groups: Synthesis, Characterization and Properties
Authors: Mustata Fanica , Bicu Ioan
Published: August 2004

Summary: Novel formaldehyde resins bearing diaminodiphenylmethane groups were synthesized by the polymerization of a mixture of diaminodiphenylmethane (DDM), cyclohexanone (CHx) and o‐cresol (o‐Cz) with formaldehyde (FA) in the presence of an acid catalyst (HCl). The resins obtained were characterized by spectral, elemental and thermal analysis and used as a hardener for epoxy resins. The curing and temperature behavior of these epoxy resin/formaldehyde systems were investigated using differential scanning calorimetry and thermogravimetry techniques. The resins had good thermal stability and the activation energies of degradation reactions had values between 70–98 kJ · mol−1.

The curing reaction of epoxy resins with the DDM/CHx/o‐Cz/formaldehyde resins.

magnified image

The curing reaction of epoxy resins with the DDM/CHx/o‐Cz/formaldehyde resins.
Micromechanical Processes in PET/PC Multilayered Tapes: High Voltage Electron Microscopy Investigations
Authors: Ivan'kova Elena M. , Michler Goerg H. , Hiltner Anne , Baer Eric
Published: August 2004

Summary: A totally new kind of multilayered tape consisting of two macroscopically ductile polymers (PET and PC) was studied using high voltage electron microscopy (HVEM). Both components were co‐extruded as uniform laminates with thousands of alternating layers. The multilayered PET/PC samples were annealed at high temperature. Investigation of the multilayered PET/PC tapes with various compositions clearly demonstrated a transition of the microdeformation mechanism which was dependent on the thickness of the individual layers. The annealing of the tapes led to a significant change in the deformation behavior. However, no lamellae formation was revealed in the PET phase after annealing, leading to the assumption of constrained crystallization in very thin PET layers.

magnified image