bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A neurohormonal role for serotonin in the control of locust oviducts
Authors: Lange Angela B.
Published: July 2004

Serotonin increases the frequency and amplitude of spontaneous contractions and leads to an increase in the basal tonus of the locust oviducts. These effects were dose‐dependent and were seen on both the non‐innnervated and innervated portion of the oviducts. Vertebrate type serotonin agonists and antagonists were used and the profile shows that the receptors on the non‐innervated and innervated portion of the oviducts are more similar to 5‐HT3 receptors than to either 5‐HT1 or 5‐HT2 receptors. No serotonin was found associated with the oviducts or the innervation to the oviducts using immunohistochemistry and HPLC coupled to electrochemical detection, suggesting a neurohormonal role for serotonin in the control of locust oviducts. Arch. Insect Biochem. Physiol. 56:179–190, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Pharmacokinetics of clarithromycin in rats with acute renal failure induced by uranyl nitrate
Authors: Lee Ae K. , Lee Joo H. , Kwon Jong W. , Kim Won B. , Kim Sang G. , Kim So H. , Lee Myung G.
Published: July 2004

In rats pretreated with dexamethasone (an inducer of CYP3A1/2 in rats) and troleandomycin (an inhibitor of CYP3A1/2 in rats), the area under the plasma concentration–time curve from time zero to time infinity (AUC) values of clarithromycin were significantly smaller (365 compared with 600µgmin/ml) and greater (1410 compared with 581µg min/ml), respectively, than those in control rats. This indicated that clarithromycin was metabolized via CYP3A1/2 in rats. The expression of CYP3A1(23) increased in rats with acute renal failure induced by uranyl nitrate (rats with U‐ARF). Hence, it could be expected that AUC of clarithromycin could be smaller in rats with U‐ARF. However, after intravenous administration of clarithromycin at a dose of 20mg/kg, the AUC and time‐averaged total body (Cl) and nonrenal (Clnr) clearance values were comparable between the two groups of rats. The 9000 × g supernatant fraction of liver homogenates in rats with U‐ARF had comparable metabolic activities for clarithromycin compared with those in control rats, suggesting that the CYP3A isozyme responsible for metabolism of clarithromycin seemed not to be expressed considerably in the rats. This could explain the comparable AUC, Cl and Clnr values of clarithromycin between the two groups of rats. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A slug, a fox, a pair of sox: Transcriptional responses to neural crest inducing signals
Authors: Heeg‐Truesdell Elizabeth , LaBonne Carole
Published: July 2004

The neural crest, a cell type found only in vertebrate embryos, gives rise to the structures of the skull and face and most of the peripheral nervous system, as well as other cell types characteristic of vertebrates. These cells are of great clinical significance and a wide variety of congenital defects are due to aberrant neural crest development. Increasing numbers of studies are contributing to our understanding of how this group of cells form and differentiate during normal development. Wnt, FGF, BMP, and Notch‐mediated signals all have essential roles in this process, and several of these signals appear to play multiple temporally distinct roles. Changes in the response of neural crest cells to the same signal over time may be mediated, in part, by an ever‐changing cocktail of transcription factors expressed within these cells. Neural crest development is thus a complex multistep process, and elucidating the molecular mechanisms that mediate distinct aspects of this process will require that we determine the role of each of these factors alone and in combination. Here, we review some recent advances in our understanding of the signals and downstream transcription factors involved in neural crest cell formation. Birth Defects Research (Part C) 72:124–139, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Neural crest contribution to mammalian tooth formation
Authors: Miletich Isabelle , Sharpe Paul T.
Published: July 2004

The cranial neural crest cells, which are specialized cells of neural origin, are central to the process of mammalian tooth development. They are the only source of mesenchyme able to sustain tooth development, and give rise not only to most of the dental tissues, but also to the periodontium, the surrounding tissues that hold teeth in position. Tooth organogenesis is regulated by a series of interactions between cranial neural crest cells and the oral epithelium. In the development of a tooth, the epithelium covering the inside of the developing oral cavity provides the first instructive signals. Signaling molecules secreted by the oral epithelium 1) establish large cellular fields competent to form a specific tooth shape (mono‐ or multicuspid) along a proximodistal axis; 2) define an oral (capable of forming teeth) and non‐oral mesenchyme along a rostrocaudal axis; and 3) position the sites of future tooth development. The critical information to model tooth shape resides later in the neural crest–derived mesenchyme. Cranial neural crest cells ultimately differentiate into highly specialized cell types to produce mature dental organs. Some cranial neural crest cells located in the dental pulp, however, maintain plasticity in their developmental potential up to postnatal life, offering new prospects for regeneration of dental tissues. Birth Defects Research (Part C) 72:200–212, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The neural crest: Basic biology and clinical relationships in the craniofacial and enteric nervous systems
Authors: Farlie Peter G. , McKeown Sonja J. , Newgreen Donald F.
Published: July 2004

The highly migratory, mesenchymal neural crest cell population was discovered over 100 years ago. Proposals of these cells' origin within the neuroepithelium, and of the tissues they gave rise to, initiated decades‐long heated debates, since these proposals challenged the powerful germ‐layer theory. Having survived this storm, the neural crest is now regarded as a pluripotent stem cell population that makes vital contributions to an astounding array of both neural and non‐neural organ systems. The earliest model systems for studying the neural crest were amphibian, and these pioneering contributions have been ably refined and extended by studies in the chick, mouse, and more recently the fish to provide detailed understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms regulating and regulated by the neural crest. The key questions regarding control of craniofacial morphogenesis and innervation of the gut illustrate the wide range of developmental contexts in which the neural crest plays an important role. These questions also focus attention on common issues such as the role of growth factor signaling in neural crest cell development and highlight the central role of the neural crest in human congenital disease. Birth Defects Research (Part C) 72:173–189, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cell surface molecules and truncal neural crest ontogeny: A perspective
Authors: Moore Robert , Larue Lionel
Published: July 2004

The neural crest cell is synonymous with vertebrates and can be viewed as a transitory, mobile vector that conveys neuroepithelial stem cells to a diverse number of remote locations in the embryo. Neural crest cells have been studied intensively over the past 30 years, and it is increasingly apparent that their fate is, at least in part, directed extrinsically by the environment to which they are exposed in vivo. The interface between the cell surface and the opposing environment is clearly an important compartment for the correct deployment of the neural crest. Here, we review some of the molecules present in this location and how they influence the fate of the neural crest and generate disease. Birth Defects Research (Part C) 72:140–150, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Molecular mechanisms of neural crest induction
Authors: Basch Martín L. , García‐Castro Martín I. , Bronner‐Fraser Marianne
Published: July 2004

The neural crest is an embryonic cell population that originates at the border between the neural plate and the prospective epidermis. Around the time of neural tube closure, neural crest cells emigrate from the neural tube, migrate along defined paths in the embryo and differentiate into a wealth of derivatives. Most of the craniofacial skeleton, the peripheral nervous system, and the pigment cells of the body originate from neural crest cells. This cell type has important clinical relevance, since many of the most common craniofacial birth defects are a consequence of abnormal neural crest development. Whereas the migration and differentiation of the neural crest have been extensively studied, we are just beginning to understand how this tissue originates. The formation of the neural crest has been described as a classic example of embryonic induction, in which specific tissue interactions and the concerted action of signaling pathways converge to induce a multipotent population of neural crest precursor cells. In this review, we summarize the current status of knowledge on neural crest induction. We place particular emphasis on the signaling molecules and tissue interactions involved, and the relationship between neural crest induction, the formation of the neural plate and neural plate border, and the genes that are upregulated as a consequence of the inductive events. Birth Defects Research (Part C) 72:109–123, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Endovascular stents for treatment of coarctation of the aorta: Acute results and follow‐up experience
Authors: Johnston Troy A. , Grifka Ronald G. , Jones Thomas K.
Published: July 2004

Balloon angioplasty as treatment for coarctation of the aorta is increasingly performed. Endovascular stents have been proposed as a means of improving the efficacy and safety of the procedure. In this report, we describe one institution's immediate results and clinical follow‐up after implantation of endovascular stents. Retrospective analysis for endovascular stent placement for coarctation of the aorta between 1993 and 2002 was made. The immediate hemodynamic results and clinical follow‐up were reviewed. Thirty‐two patients underwent attempted stent placement for coarctation. Twenty‐three patients had postoperative recurrent coarctation and nine had native coarctation. The systolic gradient decreased from 31 to 1.8 mm Hg (P = 0.001) and the diameter was increased 8.1 to 13.5 mm (P–0.001). Mean follow‐up was 1.5 years. The mean follow‐up gradient as assessed by sphygomomanometry was 13.1 mm Hg. Eight patients underwent 10 successful further dilations. Complications included one stent migration and one aortic dissection. The use of stents as an adjunct to balloon angioplasty in selected patients with coarctation can be performed with low complication rates and provides excellent immediate relief of obstruction with promising follow‐up. Further dilation of these stents is possible. Long‐term follow‐up is warranted. Catheter Cardiovasc Interv 2004;62:499–505. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Emergency localization of radioactive seeds lost during intracoronary brachytherapy
Authors: Krüll Andreas , Köster Ralf , Bohuslavizki Karl Heinz , Todorovic Manuel , Schmidt Rainer , Thurmann Horst , Brockhoff Carsten , Schwarz Rudolf , Münzel Thomas , Alberti Winfried
Published: July 2004

Recently, it has been reported that brachytherapy catheters ruptured in vivo. Localization of lost β‐radiation‐emitting seeds is a problem because no appropriate technique is available that is rapid and precise. We developed a technique to localize β‐emitting seeds utilizing the effect that β‐radiation induces bremsstrahlung. The loss of a single radioactive source was simulated in an Alderson Phantom representing a human body. The β‐induced bremsstrahlung could be detected selectively by a γ‐camera. The position of the radioactive seed could be located within 5 min with an accuracy of ± 0.5 cm. The result of this study suggests that in an emergency case of loss of a brachytherapy source, a commercially available γ‐camera can be a valuable tool to detect lost β‐radiation‐emitting seeds rapidly and precisely. In addition, the technique minimizes the patient's as well as the surgeon's exposure to radiation and reduces the extent of surgical trauma. Catheter Cardiovasc Interv 2004;62:482–484. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effects of contrast media on porcine bone marrow‐derived mononuclear cells and calf myoblast viability and secretion of VEGF and MCP‐1
Authors: Baffour Richard , Pakala Rajbabu , Hellinga David , Seabron Rufus , Fournadjiev Jana , Wolfram Roswitha , Okubagzi Petros , Epstein Stephen E. , Waksman Ron
Published: July 2004

We investigated the effect of contrast media on bone marrow‐derived cell viability, growth factor secretion, and myoblast viability. Bone marrow was exposed to contrast media, mononuclear cells were isolated, viability was assessed by Trypan blue exclusion or cultured for 4 weeks, and conditioned medium was assayed for vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1 (MCP‐1). Skeletal myoblasts viability was assessed after exposing them to contrast media. In separate experiments, bone marrow or bone marrow‐derived mononuclear cells were exposed to contrast media, cultured for 40 hr, then assessed for viability. None of the contrast media tested had any effect on bone marrow‐derived cell viability. Hypaque or Hexabrix increased myoblasts viability by 8–10%. VEGF and MCP‐1 concentrations in the conditioned medium increased in a time‐related manner. These findings support the concept that for cell therapy, bone marrow cells or myoblasts may be mixed with contrast media and injected into ischemic myocardium without compromise in viability or function. Catheter Cardiovasc Interv 2004;62:476–481. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Percutaneous closure of multiple atrial septal defects with three Amplatzer septal occluder devices
Authors: Lander Stuart R. , Phillips Sabrina , Vallabhan Ravi C. , Grayburn Paul A. , Anwar Azam
Published: July 2004

We report on the successful closure of three atrial septal defects with three Amplatzer septal occluders in a 55‐year‐old woman. Catheter Cardiovasc Interv 2004;62:526–529. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Ventricular septal rupture masquerading as coronary perforation during intervention for acute myocardial infarction
Authors: Kawamura Akio , Asakura Yasushi , Shin Hankei , Okabe Teruo , Yamane Akiko , Ogawa Satoshi
Published: July 2004

Ventricular septal rupture is a serious complication of acute myocardial infarction. We experienced a case of septal rupture immediately after primary angioplasty with thrombolysis, whose angiographic findings were similar to those of coronary perforation. The progression of septal rupture was delineated by the serial angiograms. Catheter Cardiovasc Interv 2004;62:466–470. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Transcatheter patent foramen ovale closure for secondary prevention of paradoxical embolic events: Acute results from the FORECAST registry
Authors: Alameddine Fadi , Block Peter C.
Published: July 2004

Patients with patent foramen ovale (PFO) and paradoxical embolism are at increased risk for recurrent events. Percutaneous PFO closure is a new treatment modality aimed at secondary prevention. We report the multicenter experience of interventional closure of PFO using two different devices in 272 patients. The mean age was 51 ± 14.2 years and 52.9% were males. The implantation procedure resulted in an initial complete shunt closure rate of 74.3% with a periprocedural complication rate of 6.6%. There were no deaths or pericardial tamponade. The mean procedure time was less than 44 min under either conscious sedation, local or general anesthesia. This is the largest report to date demonstrating the procedural safety, reliability, and feasibility of the transcatheter PFO closure technique with the STARFlex and CardioSEAL septal implants. Randomized clinical trials are currently in progress to identify patients most likely to benefit from this intervention. Catheter Cardiovasc Interv 2004;62:512–516. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Acute and long‐term clinical and angiographic outcomes of coronary stenting using Palmaz‐Schatz stent and ACS Multi‐Link stent
Authors: Hsieh I‐Chang , Chang Hern‐Jia , Huang Hsuan‐Li , See Lai‐Chu , Chern Ming‐Shyan , Hung Kuo‐Chun , Lin Fun‐Chung , Wu Delon
Published: July 2004

Acute and long‐term (≥ 3 years) outcomes of coronary artery stenting using Palmaz‐Schatz and Multi‐Link stent implantations between November 1995 and October 1999 were analyzed. There were 655 Palmaz‐Schatz stent implantations in 577 lesions on 477 patients (group A) and 428 Multi‐Link stent implantations in 381 lesions on 326 patients (group B). The baseline characteristics were similar in the two groups. Group B had more complex lesions, longer stenotic lesions, and larger reference vessel sizes than group A. However, both groups had a similar in‐hospital cardiac events. Four hundred and two patients with 488 lesions in group A and 260 patients with 307 lesions in group B underwent a 6‐month follow‐up coronary angiography. The restenotic rate per lesion was 16% in both groups (P = 0.872). A 3‐year angiographic follow‐up was performed in 262 patients of group A (301 lesions) and 139 patients of group B (162 lesions), and restenosis was noted in only 3 patients (1.36%) in group A and 5 patients (4%) in group B, in which the lesion was patent at the 6‐month angiographic follow‐up. Significant increase in minimal luminal diameter was noted from 2.23 ± 0.66 mm at 6 months to 2.33 ± 0.64 mm in group A (P < 0.01), and insignificant increase from 2.23 ± 0.77 to 2.28 ± 0.82 mm was noted in group B (P = 0.27). No differences were noted between the two groups in mortality, reinfarction, recurrent angina, target lesion angioplasty, or elective coronary artery bypass surgery during a follow‐up period of 60 ± 3 months. Forty‐five patients (9.4%) in group A and 18 patients (5.5%) in group B received additional stenting procedures for newly developed lesions. The overall cardiac event‐free survival was 66% in group A and 72% in group B (P = 0.844). In conclusion, the procedural success rate, in‐hospital morbidity, 6‐month angiographic results, and long‐term (≥ 3 years) clinical and angiographic outcomes were similar with coronary stenting using either Palmaz‐Schatz or Multi‐Link stent. The stented lesions were stable; however, late regression of minimal luminal diameter was noted in both groups, and progression of atherosclerotic change in the nonstented site was noted during long‐term follow‐up. Catheter Cardiovasc Interv 2004;62:453–460. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Coronary anatomy and left ventricular ejection fraction in patients with type 2 diabetes admitted for elective coronary angiography
Authors: Ammann Peter , Brunner‐La Rocca Hanspeter , Fehr Thomas , Münzer Thomas , Sagmeister Markus , Angehrn Walter , Rickli Hans
Published: July 2004

Patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) have more severe coronary artery disease and a two‐ to fourfold higher risk for myocardial infarction and death as compared to patients without DM. In this study, we analyzed coronary anatomy, left ventricular ejection fraction, and cardiac risk factors in patients with DM referred for coronary angiography and compared them with findings in nondiabetic patients. Coronary anatomy was assessed in a total of 6,234 patients and left ventricular ejection fraction in a subset of 4,767 (76.5%) patients. Diabetic patients (n = 641) were older (60.8 ± 9.6 vs. 58.5 ± 10.5 years; P < 0.0001) and had higher rates of hypertension (65% vs. 47%; P < 0.0001). Three‐vessel disease (DM 44.7% vs. no DM 25.4%; P < 0.0001) and reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (DM 58.4% ± 15.2 vs. no DM 63.9% ± 13.2; P < 0.0001) were significantly associated with DM. After adjustment for age and other vascular risk factors, the presence of DM was associated with a higher atherosclerotic burden. We conclude that advanced coronary heart disease and left ventricular dysfunction are highly prevalent in diabetic patients, independent of age and other cardiovascular risk factors. Thus, cardiac assessment in diabetic patients should, in addition to optimal diabetic control, involve screening for left ventricular dysfunction. Cathet Cardiovasc Intervent 2004;62:432–468. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Novel growth stent for the permanent treatment of vessel stenosis in growing children: An experimental study
Authors: Ewert Peter , Riesenkampff Eugénie , Neuss Malte , Kretschmar Oliver , Nagdyman Nicole , Lange Peter E.
Published: July 2004

Stent implantation in stenotic vessels of infants and small children is problematic because there is no ideal stent model that is small enough to be easily introduced into the infant femoral vein or artery and, at the same time, large enough to be dilated during growth to adult vessel diameters. To overcome this problem, we designed a new stent, the growth stent. This growth stent is a balloon‐expandable metal stent. Two longitudinal halves are connected with bioabsorbable sutures so that a circular stent is created. It was postulated that after absorption of the sutures the stent would not impede growth. Twenty of these stents were implanted in the aorta, pulmonary arteries, and inferior vena cava of piglets (average weight 6.9 kg). After 18 weeks (14–23 weeks) and a mean weight gain of 59 kg, none of the stented vessels showed any significant stenosis or pressure gradient, documented by angiography and catheter pullback. During fluoroscopy, the two halves of the stent were clearly separated in all animals. The growth stent has the potential to be nonrestrictive during vessel growth, and thus is a promising new device for the permanent treatment of stenotic vessels in infancy and childhood. Catheter Cardiovasc Interv 2004;62:506–510. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Luminal narrowing due to intramural hematoma shift from left anterior descending coronary artery to left circumflex artery
Authors: Hirose Makoto , Kobayashi Yoshio , Kreps Edward M. , Stone Gregg W. , Moussa Issam , Leon Martin B. , Moses Jeffrey W.
Published: July 2004

This case report demonstrates subacute luminal narrowing 20 days after balloon angioplasty in the left anterior descending coronary artery due to an intramural hematoma. Stenting was performed and resulted in side‐branch compromise caused by squeezing the hematoma from the left anterior descending coronary artery into the left circumflex artery. Another stent was deployed to treat the stenosis in the left circumflex artery. Catheter Cardiovasc Interv 2004;62:461–465. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Correlation optimized warping and dynamic time warping as preprocessing methods for chromatographic data
Authors: Tomasi Giorgio , van den Berg Frans , Andersson Claus
Published: July 2004

Two different algorithms for time‐alignment as a preprocessing step in linear factor models are studied. Correlation optimized warping and dynamic time warping are both presented in the literature as methods that can eliminate shift‐related artifacts from measurements by correcting a sample vector towards a reference. In this study both the theoretical properties and the practical implications of using signal warping as preprocessing for chromatographic data are investigated. The connection between the two algorithms is also discussed. The findings are illustrated by means of a case study of principal component analysis on a real data set, including manifest retention time artifacts, of extracts from coffee samples stored under different packaging conditions for varying storage times. We concluded that for the data presented here dynamic time warping with rigid slope constraints and correlation optimized warping are superior to unconstrained dynamic time warping; both considerably simplify interpretation of the factor model results. Unconstrained dynamic time warping was found to be too flexible for this chromatographic data set, resulting in an overcompensation of the observed shifts and suggesting the unsuitability of this preprocessing method for this type of signals. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Doxorubicin for favorable histology, Stage II–III Wilms tumor
Authors: Breslow Norman E. , Ou San‐San , Beckwith J. Bruce , Haase Gerald M. , Kalapurakal John A. , Ritchey Michael L. , Shamberger Robert C. , Thomas Patrick R. M. , D'Angio Giulio J. , Green Daniel M.
Published: July 2004

BACKGROUND

After randomized trials in the 1980s, doxorubicin (DOX) was added to dactinomycin plus vincristine as standard chemotherapy for patients who had Stage III Wilms tumor (WT) of favorable histology (FH). Double‐agent chemotherapy was retained for patients with Stage II disease. In this study, the authors reevaluated the efficacy of DOX using extended follow‐up and additional patients.

METHODS

The relative risks (RR) (DOX vs. no DOX) of disease recurrence and mortality were estimated for patients with Stage II–III/FH WT who were enrolled in the third and fourth National Wilms Tumor Studies (NWTS‐3 and NWTS‐4). The risk of congestive heart failure (CHF) was estimated for all patients who received DOX.

RESULTS

No statistically significant effects of DOX were found for patients with Stage II tumors. For patients with Stage III tumors, the 8 year recurrence‐free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS) rates for randomized patients on NWTS‐3 were 84% and 89%, respectively, for patients who received DOX (n= 130) and 74% and 83%, respectively, for patients who did not receive DOX (n= 118). Including all patients with Stage III disease who received DOX (n= 678) and did not receive DOX (n= 138), the RRs of recurrence were 0.47 (P= 0.007) and 0.40 (P= 0.011), and local recurrence respectively, after adjustment for radiation therapy (RT) dose, whereas the RR of mortality adjusted for RT and study was 0.68 (P= 0.17). The 20‐year risk of CHF after primary DOX treatment on NWTS‐3 and NWTS‐4 was 1.2%.

CONCLUSIONS

The inclusion of data from nonrandomized patients yielded estimates of DOX treatment effects for Stage III/FH WT that were stronger, albeit more susceptible to bias, than reported previously. Despite a lower reported risk of CHF, conclusive evidence that frontline therapy with DOX definitively improves survival remains elusive. Cancer 2004. © 2004 American Cancer Society.
Medullomyoblastoma: A radiographic and clinicopathologic analysis of six cases and review of the literature
Authors: Helton Kathleen J. , Fouladi Maryam , Boop Frederick A. , Perry Arie , Dalton James , Kun Larry , Fuller Christine
Published: July 2004

BACKGROUND

Medullomyoblastoma (MMB) is a rare cerebellar embryonal neoplasm that occurs almost exclusively in children. It is biphasic by microscopy, containing myoblastic and primitive neuroectodermal components.

METHODS

The authors conducted a retrospective review of the radiographic and pathologic characteristics, treatment, and clinical outcomes of six children with MMB who were treated at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital (Memphis, TN) between 1984 and 2003. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) data were available for four children. A literature review also was conducted and focused on imaging and pathologic findings.

RESULTS

The median age at diagnosis was 4.5 years (range, 0.83–7.5 years). Radiographically, all tumors were cerebellar and exhibited variable enhancement, and 50% of tumors had necrotic foci. Three tumors contained discrete, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) T2‐weighted–hypointense/computed tomography (CT)‐hyperdense enhancing regions and separate hyperintense/hypodense nonenhancing regions, which correlated microscopically with geographic islands of primitive neuroectodermal and rhabdomyoblastic cells. Large cell/anaplastic (five tumors), nodular/desmoplastic (two tumors), and classic (two tumors) medulloblastoma histologies were encountered either alone (five tumors) or in combination with each other (two tumors). All 4 tumors that were tested exhibited alterations in chromosome 17 or c‐myc amplification. All patients underwent macroscopic total resection and subsequently received chemotherapy and craniospinal (five patients) or local conformal (one patient) radiotherapy. At a median follow‐up of 92 months (range, 23–187 months), 3 patients remain alive with no evidence of disease, 2 patients have died of disease, and 1 patient has died of secondary acute lymphocytic leukemia.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of the current study demonstrated the frequent correlation of biphasic nodularity (as determined by MRI or CT) with discrete rhabdomyoblastic and primitive neuroectodermal islands (as revealed by microscopy) in MMB. These results also support the view that MMB and medulloblastoma may have common tumorigenic origins, given their similar histologic and molecular features. Cancer 2004. © 2004 American Cancer Society.
High‐dose chemotherapy followed by locoregional irradiation improves the outcome of patients with international neuroblastoma staging system Stage II and III neuroblastoma with MYCN amplification
Authors: Laprie Anne , Michon Jean , Hartmann Olivier , Munzer Caroline , Leclair Marc‐David , Coze Carole , Valteau‐Couanet Dominique , Plantaz Dominique , Carrie Christian , Habrand Jean‐Louis , Bergeron Christophe , Chastagner Pascal , Défachelles Anne‐Sophie , Delattre Olivier , Combaret Valérie , Bénard Jean , Pérel Yves , Gandemer Virginie , Rubie Hervé ,   Neuroblastoma Study Group of the French Society of Pediatric Oncology
Published: July 2004

BACKGROUND

The objective of this study was to determine whether systemic and regional, intensified treatment can improve the outcome of children who present with a localized neuroblastoma (NB) with MYCN amplification (MNA).

METHODS

Between 1990 and 2000, 610 children with localized NB were included in the Localized Neuroblastoma 90 (NBL 90) and NBL 94 study from the French Society of Pediatric Oncology. Among them, 32 children had MNA with Stage II or III NB. During the first period of the study, 20 children (Group A) received postoperative conventional chemotherapy (CT) and/or radiotherapy (RT), depending on each patient's postoperative status. Subsequently, because of a high recurrence rate, the next 12 children (Group B) were given postoperative high‐dose CT (HDC) (busulfan and melphalan) with stem cell rescue (SCR) followed by RT in addition to conventional postoperative CT.

RESULTS

The two groups were comparable with regard to prognostic factors (age, location of the primary lesion, International Neuroblastoma Staging System stage, lymph node invasion) and response to preoperative CT. The 6‐year overall survivalrate was significantly different between the two groups 25% ± 10% in Group A vs. 83% ± 11% in Group B; P = 0.004).

CONCLUSIONS

Postoperative intensification treatment with HDC, SCR, and locoregional RT resulted in higher survival rates when compared with standard treatment alone and should be considered in the treatment plan for children who are diagnosed with Stage II or III NB and MYCN amplification. Cancer 2004. © 2004 American Cancer Society.
Recurrent excitation of granule cells with basal dendrites and low interneuron density and inhibitory postsynaptic current frequency in the dentate gyrus of macaque monkeys
Authors: Austin Jenifer E. , Buckmaster Paul S.
Published: July 2004

Temporal lobe epilepsy is often associated with pathological changes in the dentate gyrus, and such changes may be more common in humans than in some nonprimate species. To examine species‐specific characteristics that might predispose the dentate gyrus to epileptogenic damage, we evaluated recurrent excitation of granule cells with and without basal dendrites in macaque monkeys, measured miniature inhibitory postsynaptic currents (mIPSCs) of granule cells in macaque monkeys and compared them to rats, and estimated the granule cell‐to‐interneuron ratio in macaque monkeys and rats. In hippocampal slices from monkeys, whole‐cell patch recording revealed antidromically evoked excitatory PSCs that were four times larger and inhibitory PSCs that were over two times larger in granule cells with basal dendrites than without. These findings suggest that granule cells with basal dendrites receive more recurrent excitation and, to a lesser degree, more recurrent inhibition. Miniature IPSC amplitude was slightly larger in monkey granule cells with basal dendrites than in those without, but mIPSC frequency was similar and only 26% of that reported for rats. In situ hybridization for glutamic acid decarboxylase and immunocytochemistry for somatostatin, parvalbumin, and neuronal nuclei revealed interneuron proportions and distributions in monkeys that were similar to those reported for rats. However, the interneuron‐to‐granule cell ratio was lower in monkeys (1:28) than in rats (1:11). These findings suggest that in the primate dentate gyrus, recurrent excitation is enhanced and inhibition is reduced compared with rodents. These primate characteristics may contribute to the susceptibility of the human dentate gyrus to epileptogenic injuries. J. Comp. Neurol. 476:205–218, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Development of the human motor‐related thalamic nuclei during the first half of gestation, with special emphasis on GABAergic circuits
Authors: Kultas‐Ilinsky Kristy , Fallet Catherine , Verney Catherine
Published: July 2004

This study analyzed the expression of differentiation markers (Calbindin D28K: CaBP; parvalbumin: PARV; calretinin: CalR), gamma‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) markers (GABA, glutamic acid decarboxylases: GAD65, GAD67; and GABA transporters: GAT1, GAT3), and other markers (neurotensin: NT, and neurofilament‐specific protein: SMI32) in the human thalamus at 8–23 gestation weeks (g.w.), focusing on the motor‐related nuclei. From 8–13 g.w. mainly CaBP was expressed in the cells while fiber bundles traversing the thalamus in addition to CaBP expressed all GABA markers except GAD67. CaBP and PARV expression patterns in different nuclei changed over the time course studied, whereas NT was expressed consistently along the anterior‐lateral curvature of the thalamus. CalR and SMI were detectable at 23 g.w. in the ventral parts of the dorsal thalamus. Most remarkably, punctate GAD65 immunoreactivity in the neuropil was confined to the nigro‐ and pallidothalamic afferent receiving nuclei from 16 to about 21 g.w., overlapping with that of CaBP in some of these nuclei (subdivisions of the ventral anterior and mediodorsal nuclei) and with PARV in others (centromedian nucleus). During this period, GAD65 immunoreactivity can be considered a marker of the basal ganglia afferent receiving territory in the motor thalamus. GAD67‐positive local circuit neurons were first detected at 12–13 g.w. in the thalamic nuclei outside the basal ganglia afferent receiving territory. In the ventral anterior and centromedian nuclei, GAD‐containing local circuit neurons were not conspicuous even at 22–23 g.w. The cells of the reticular nucleus expressed GAD67 and PARV from 12 g.w. on starting in the lateral‐posterior regions. By 23 g.w., both markers were expressed in about two‐thirds of the nucleus except for its most medial‐anterior part. The results imply spatially and temporally differential expression of GABA and differentiation markers in the developing human thalamus. J. Comp. Neurol. 476:267–289, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Subventricular zone‐derived neuronal progenitors migrate into the subcortical forebrain of postnatal mice
Authors: De Marchis Silvia , Fasolo Aldo , Puche Adam C.
Published: July 2004

The presence of a germinal layer and the capacity to generate neurons, once thought restricted to the embryonic brain, persists in the forebrain of both postnatal and adult mammals. The two regions in which this phenomenon has been extensively demonstrated are the hippocampal dentate gyrus and the lateral ventricle subventricular zone (SVZ). SVZ‐derived cells migrate along the rostral migratory stream into the olfactory bulb, where they differentiate into local interneurons. In this study, using tracer injections into the SVZ at different postnatal ages, we investigated the occurrence of secondary migratory pathways in the mouse subcortical forebrain. During the course of the first week postnatal, in addition to the well‐characterized rostral migratory stream, SVZ‐derived progenitors migrate in a ventral migratory mass across the nucleus accumbens into the basal forebrain and along a ventrocaudal migratory stream originating at the elbow between the vertical and horizontal limbs of the rostral migratory stream. These cells give rise to granule neurons in the Islands of Calleja and olfactory tubercle pyramidal layer, respectively. In adult, a very small number of cells continue to migrate along the ventrocaudal migratory stream, whereas no migration was observed across the nucleus accumbens. These data demonstrate that in early postnatal and, to a minor extent in adult mice, SVZ‐derived cells contribute new neurons to the subcortical forebrain. J. Comp. Neurol. 476:290–300, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Axonogenesis in the medaka embryonic brain
Authors: Ishikawa Yuji , Kage Takahiro , Yamamoto Naoyuki , Yoshimoto Masami , Yasuda Takako , Matsumoto Atsuko , Maruyama Kouichi , Ito Hironobu
Published: July 2004

In order to know the general pattern of axonogenesis in vertebrates, we examined axonogenesis in the embryonic brain of a teleost fish, medaka (Oryzias latipes), and the results were compared with previous studies in zebrafish and mouse. The axons and somata were stained immunocytochemically using antibodies to a cell surface marker (HNK‐1) and acetylated tubulin and visualized by retrograde and anterograde labeling with a lipophilic dye. The fiber systems developed correlating with the organization of the longitudinal and transverse subdivisions of the embryonic brain. The first axons extended from the synencephalic tegmentum, forming the first fiber tract (fasciculus longitudinalis medialis) in the ventral longitudinal zone of the neural rod, 38 hours after fertilization. In the neural tube, throughout the entire brain two pairs of longitudinal fiber systems, one ventral series and one dorsal or intermediate series, and four pairs of transverse fiber tracts in the rostral brain were formed sequentially during the first 16 hours of axon production. In one of the dorsal longitudinal tracts, its branch retracted and disappeared at later stages. One of the transverse tracts was found to course in the telencephalon and hypothalamus. The overall pattern of the longitudinal fiber systems in medaka brain is similar to that in mouse, but apparently different from that in zebrafish. We propose that a ventral tract reported in zebrafish partially belongs to the dorsal fiber system, and that the longitudinal fiber systems in all vertebrate brains pass through a common layout defined by conserved genetic and developmental programs. J. Comp. Neurol. 476:240–253, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Differentiation of the midbrain dopaminergic pathways during mouse development
Authors: Hu Zhaoliang , Cooper Margaret , Crockett David P. , Zhou Renping
Published: July 2004

Dopaminergic (DA) neurons in the substantia nigra (SN) and ventral tegmental area (VTA) of the midbrain project to the dorsolateral caudate/putamen and to the ventromedially located nucleus accumbens, respectively, establishing the mesostriatal and the mesolimbic pathways. Disruptions in this system have been implicated in Parkinson's disease, drug addiction, schizophrenia, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. However, progress in our understanding has been hindered by a lack of knowledge of how these pathways develop. In this study, different retrograde tracers, placed into the dorsolateral caudate/putamen and the nucleus accumbens, were used to analyze the development of the dopaminergic pathways. In embryonic day 15 mouse embryos, both SN and VTA neurons, as well as their fibers, were doubly labeled by striatal injections into the dorsolateral and ventromedial striatum. However, by birth, the SN DA neurons were labeled exclusively by DiA placed in the dorsolateral striatum, and the VTA DA neurons were labeled only by DiI injected into the ventromedial striatum. These data suggest that initial projections from midbrain DA neurons target nonspecifically to both the dorsolateral striatum and the nucleus accumbens. Later during development, the separate mesostriatal and mesolimbic pathways differentiate through the selective elimination of mistargeted collaterals. J. Comp. Neurol. 476:301–311, 2004. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
On the Bond‐Stretch Isomerism in the Benzo[1,2:4,5]dicyclobutadiene System—An ab initio MR‐AQCC Study
Authors: Antol Ivana , Eckert‐Maksić Mirjana , Lischka Hans , Maksić Zvonimir B.
Published: July 2004

Bond‐stretch isomerism in benzo[1,2:4,5]dicyclobutadiene (BDCB) has been investigated using the MR‐AQCC/6–31G(d) method, a high‐level multireference ab initio approach including size‐extensivity corrections. The applied theoretical approach includes both nondynamical and dynamical electron correlation effects. Full MR‐AQCC geometry optimizations of localized (1) and delocalized (3) isomers as well as the transition structure (TS) have been determined using D2h symmetry restriction. The calculations show that both isomers are approximately of equal stability separated by a barrier with a height of about 5 kcal mol−1. Thus, the present results strongly indicate that benzo[1,3:4,5]dicyclobutadiene is a very good candidate for an organic compound exhibiting bond‐stretch isomerism, since isomers 1 and 3 correspond to true minima on the double‐well potential energy surface, which are separated by a sufficiently high barrier. It is particularly important to emphasize that isomer 3 represents a realization of the highly elusive quasi‐[10]annulene.
Two‐Photon Absorption in Linear Bis‐dioxaborine Compounds—The Impact of Correlation‐Induced Oscillator‐Strength Redistribution
Authors: Zojer Egbert , Wenseleers Wim , Halik Marcus , Grasso Cara , Barlow Stephen , Perry Joseph W. , Marder Seth R. , Brédas Jean‐Luc
Published: July 2004

Quantum‐chemical calculations of the two‐photon absorption (TPA) cross‐sections are used to determine the characteristics of the electronic excited states responsible for the observed peaks in the TPA spectra of two bis‐dioxaborine‐substituted biphenyl derivatives. We find two distinct TPA‐active states with very different TPA cross‐sections; the difference is explained on the basis of electron correlation. These effects, on the one hand, lead to TPA cross‐sections of up to 500×10−50 cm4 s photon−1 for the state favored by correlation; on the other hand, they limit the overall cross‐sections achievable in this class of materials.
Direct Measurement of Dynamic Frequency Shift Induced by Cross‐Correlations in 15N‐Enriched Proteins
Authors: Desvaux Hervé , Kümmerle Rainer , Kowalewski Jozef , Luchinat Claudio , Bertini Ivano
Published: July 2004

We describe a new NMR experimental scheme that allows the direct determination of the dynamic frequency shift induced by chemical shift anisotropy/dipolar interaction (CSA/DD) cross‐correlations in 15N‐enriched proteins. Its principle consists of comparing two rates of polarisation transfer between the amide proton and nitrogen. The first rate, which is independent of the dynamic frequency shift, is based on a selective Hartmann–Hahn coherence transfer. The second rate, which depends on the dynamic frequency shift, is based on a free evolution of the transverse magnetisation. We report experimental validation of this approach by measuring the average dynamic frequency shift due to CSA/DD cross‐correlations in the calcium‐binding protein D9k. The method may also be applicable to the measurement of dynamic frequency shift induced by cross‐correlations between the Curie spin and dipolar interactions.
Scanning Force Microscopy Based Rapid Force Curve Acquisition on Supported Lipid Bilayers: Experiments and Simulations Using Pulsed Force Mode
Authors: Krüger Stephanie , Krüger Daniel , Janshoff Andreas
Published: July 2004

In situ pulsed force mode scanning force microscopy (PFM–SFM) images of phase separated solid‐supported lipid bilayers are discussed with the help of computer simulations. Simultaneous imaging of material properties and topography in a liquid environment by means of PFM–SFM is severely hampered by hydrodynamic damping of the cantilever. Stiffness and adhesion images of solid‐supported membranes consisting of cholesterol, sphingomyelin, and 1,2‐dioleyl‐phosphatidylcholine obtained in aqueous solution exhibit contrast inversion of adhesion and stiffness images depending on parameters such as driving frequency, amplitude, and trigger setting. Simulations using a simple harmonic oscillator model explain experimental findings and give a deeper insight into the way PFM–SFM experiments have to be performed in order to obtain interpretable results and hence pave the way for reliable material contrast imaging at high speed.
Two‐Dimensional Double‐Quantum 2H NMR Spectroscopy in the Solid State under OMAS Conditions: Correlating 2H Chemical Shifts with Quasistatic Line Shapes
Authors: Hoffmann Anke , Schnell Ingo
Published: July 2004

Solid‐state 2H NMR spectroscopy is a well‐established and versatile method to study molecular orientation and dynamics in selectively deuterated samples. Herein, we introduce a 2D 2H double‐quantum (DQ) NMR experiment performed under fast magic‐angle spinning with a slight offset of the magic angle (OMAS). The experiment combines 2H chemical‐shift resolution with DQ‐filtered quasistatic 2H line shapes. In this way, it is possible to separate 2H resonances and to independently determine 2H quadrupole couplings at multiple sites. While 2H chemical shifts are resolved in the 2H DQ dimension, the quadrupole parameters can be obtained from characteristic line shapes which are reintroduced in the second dimension by the magic‐angle offset. The 2D 2H DQ OMAS experiment is demonstrated on L‐histidine which was deuterated at multiple sites by recrystallisation from D2O.
Amorphous Silica as a Versatile Supermolecular Ligand for NiII Amine Complexes: Toward Interfacial Molecular Recognition
Authors: Boujday Souhir , Lambert Jean‐François , Che Michel
Published: July 2004

Selective adsorption of NiII amine complexes used as precursors for supported catalysts was studied on amorphous silica surfaces. The nature of the adsorption sites was probed by [Ni(en)(dien)(H2O)]2+, [Ni(en)2(H2O)2]2+, and [Ni(dien)(H2O)3]2+ (en=ethylenediamine, dien=diethylenetriamine), which respectively contain one, two, and three labile aqua ligands. The silica surface acts as a mono‐ or polydentate ligand that can substitute the aqua ligands of the NiII complexes in an inner‐sphere adsorption mechanism. Room‐temperature adsorption isotherms indicate that each nickel complex selects a limited number of adsorption sites; different sites are recognised by the three complexes, even though they have the same charge and comparable sizes. Several spectroscopic techniques (UV/Vis/NIR, EXAFS, and 29Si NMR) were used to confirm the selective character of the interaction of NiII amine complexes with the silica surface. The specific sites include both silanol/silanolate groups in the same number as the original labile ligands and other surface groups that probably act as hydrogen‐bond acceptors. These two types of groups cooperate to result in interfacial molecular‐recognition phenomena with interactional complementarity.
Microsolvation of Phthalocyanines in Superfluid Helium Droplets
Authors: Lehnig Rudolf , Slenczka Alkwin
Published: July 2004

Experimental and theoretical investigations of the spectroscopy of molecules in superfluid helium droplets provide evidence for the key role of the first helium layer surrounding the dopant molecule in determining the molecule's spectroscopic features. Recent investigations of emission spectra of phthalocyanine in helium droplets revealed a doubling of all transitions. Herein, we present the emission spectra of Mg‐phthalocyanine and of phthalocyanine–argon clusters in helium droplets, which confirm the splitting as a general effect of the helium environment. A scheme of levels is deduced from the emission spectra and attributed to quantized states of the first helium layer surrounding the dopant molecule.