bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intestinal Obstruction as a Manifestation of Metastatic Gastrointestinal Neuroendocrine Tumor – A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Brahmi Yasser El , Dabbagh Mahmoud , Mohamed Ballouch , Moctar Noufou Fodiya , Chair Walid , Najih Mohammed
Published: April 2024

Neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) are rare tumors that are capable of secreting hormones into the bloodstream. They can affect any organ but are most commonly found in the digestive system, particularly in the small intestine.

Neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) are often identified in later stages due to the emergence of nonspecific symptoms.  Chromogranin A serves as the primary biochemical indicator for NETs. Evaluating the extent of the disease typically involves conventional imaging techniques such as CT scans and MRIs, as well as isotopic imaging methods.

Curative surgery remains the gold standard in the management of small intestine neuroendocrine tumors (SI-NETs). It should be considered as soon as possible, even in cases of metastatic stage.

Somatostatin analogs (SSAs) are pivotal in both managing symptoms and therapeutically addressing metastatic Neuroendocrine Tumors (NETs).

we present a case of a neuroendocrine tumor with intestinal obstruction along with a literature review.
Internet‐initiated sexual abuse: adolescent victims' reports about On‐ and Off‐line sexual activities
Authors: Leander Lina , Christianson Sven Å , Granhag Pär Anders
Published: March 2008

The purpose of the present study was to investigate how adolescent girls, who had been sexually (on‐ and off‐line) deceived and abused by an Internet hebephile, reported about these acts. As we had access to documentation of 68 girls' conversations (i.e. chat logs) and involvement with the perpetrator, we were able to gauge what the victims reported during the police interview against this detailed documentation. In contrast with findings from previous research, the majority of victims reported about the off‐line activities (real‐life meetings) with the perpetrator. However, the victims omitted and/or denied more of the on‐line activities, specifically the more severe sexual on‐line acts (sending nude photos and participating in sexual web shows). There is probably a gap between what the victims reported and what they presumably remembered about the on‐line activities. Factors that might have affected the victims' pattern of reports are discussed. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The role of emotional elaboration in the creation of false memories
Authors: Drivdahl Sarah B. , Zaragoza Maria S. , Learned Dianne M.
Published: March 2008

Two experiments employed an eyewitness suggestibility paradigm to examine the effects of emotional elaboration on the creation of false memories for suggested events. The results of both experiments converge in showing that reflectively elaborating on the emotional consequences of suggested events increases both false belief and false memory in having witnessed the suggested events. Moreover, the results also showed that emotional elaboration leads to higher false memory than other types of meaningful elaboration, thus providing evidence that the emotional content of the elaboration plays a role in promoting false memory development. The results have several real‐world implications for forensic and therapeutic interviews. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The effects of wording on the understanding and use of uncertainty information in a threshold forecasting decision
Authors: Joslyn Susan L. , Nadav‐Greenberg Limor , Taing Meng U. , Nichols Rebecca M.
Published: March 2008

Many believe that information about small chances of severe weather would be useful to the general public for precautionary action. What is the best way to explain this kind of information to a non‐expert audience? The studies reported here investigated effects of framing (negative vs. positive), format (frequency vs. probability), likelihood (low vs. high) and compatibility (task‐match) on interpretation of verbal expressions of forecast uncertainty and on subsequent forecasting decisions. The crucial factor was the match between the verbal expression and the overall task goal. Errors increased when there was a mismatch between the expression (e.g. winds less than 20 knots) and the task (e.g. post an advisory when winds will exceed 20 knots). However, framing and format had little impact. We conclude that consideration of user expectations arising from the overall task goal is crucial in explaining uncertainty information to a naïve audience. Global expectations overpower other potential effects. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Theoretical Study of Substitution Effects in Unimolecular Rectifiers
Authors: Stadler Robert , Geskin Victor , Cornil Jérôme
Published: March 2008

The concept of molecular rectifiers introduced by Aviram and Ratner in 1974 has been the starting point of the field of molecular electronics and the possibility of unimolecular rectification has been widely debated ever since. Despite the large amount of publications on this topic over the years, the physical mechanisms leading to this phenomenon have not yet been clarified to the point where a systematic route for enhancing the rectification ratio (RR) of molecules could be suggested. We present here a theoretical study of RR for a range of molecules with a carboxylic group as a bridge between π‐conjugated chains substituted by nitro and amino groups to improve the rectification. We estimate the RR in two distinct ways, namely: i) as the ratio of the threshold electric fields required to transfer one electron between the donor and acceptor units of the molecule and vice versa, using quantum‐chemical calculations based on the semi‐empirical Hartree–Fock Austin Model 1 (AM1) method, ii) as the ratio of the currents in forward versus reverse bias, as obtained with a non‐equilibrium Green's function (NEGF) approach for charge transport through gold/molecule/gold junctions within the framework of density functional theory (DFT). The trends in RR as a function of the molecular structure agree very well when these two methods are compared and can be explained in terms of the relative position of the nitro group within the generated electrostatic potential. These findings allow us to derive some general conclusions about the physical mechanisms behind unimolecular rectification.
Reinforcement of a Rubbery Epoxy Polymer by Mesostructured Silica and Organosilica with Wormhole Framework Structures
Authors: Jiao Jian , Sun Xin , Pinnavaia Thomas J.
Published: March 2008

Mesostructured forms of silica (denoted MSU‐J) and aminopropyl‐functionalized silica (denoted AP‐MSU‐J) with wormhole framework structures are effective reinforcing agents for a rubbery epoxy polymer. At loadings of 2.0–10 wt %, MSU‐J silica with an average framework pore size of 14 nm (65 °C assembly temperature) provides superior reinforcement properties in comparison to MSU‐J silica with a smaller average framework pore size of 5.3 nm (25 °C assembly temperature), even though the surface area of the larger pore mesostructure (670 m2 g−1) is substantially lower than the smaller pore mesostructure (964 m2 g−1). The introduction of 5.0 and 10 mol % aminopropyl groups in the wormhole framework walls decreases the textural properties in comparison to the pure silica analogs. AP‐MSU‐J organosilicas increase the tensile strength as well as the strain‐at‐break of the rubbery epoxy mesocomposites in comparison to MSU‐J silica as a reinforcing agent. The improved toughness provided by the aminopropyl functionalized mesostructures is attributable in part to covalent bond formation between the mesostructured silica walls and the cured epoxy matrix and to a more ductile mesostructure framework in comparison to a pure silica framework. An organosilica derivative containing 20 mol % aminopropyl groups, but lacking a mesostructured framework, provides little or no improvement in polymer tensile properties, demonstrating that an ordered porous network is essential for polymer reinforcement. In general, the reinforcement benefits provided by mesostructures with larger framework pores are superior to those provided by smaller pore derivatives, most likely because of more efficient polymer impregnation of the particle mesopores. The presence of a mesostructured form of the organosilica is essential for improving the mechanical properties of the epoxy polymer.
Nanocrystalline Magnesium Oxide‐Stabilized Palladium(0): An Efficient and Reusable Catalyst for Selective Reduction of Nitro Compounds
Authors: Kantam M. Lakshmi , Chakravarti Rajashree , Pal Ujjwal , Sreedhar B. , Bhargava Suresh
Published: March 2008

An efficient, mild and selective synthesis of aromatic and aliphatic amines from the corresponding nitro compounds has been realized by using a ligand‐free heterogeneous nanocrystalline magnesium oxide‐stabilized palladium(0) catalyst, employing molecular hydrogen as the reductant. The catalyst is recovered quantitatively by simple filtration and was reused for several cycles with consistent activity.
Electrochemical microreactor for chiral syntheses using the cofactor NADH
Authors: Cheikhou Kane , Tzédakis Théodore
Published: March 2008

An electrochemical filter‐press microreactor has been designed by electroerosion to perform chiral enzymatic syntheses. Semicylindrical channels are created in the electrodes, only separated by a Nafion membrane. Electrochemical and hydrodynamic characterization of the microreactor allows operating conditions to be optimized. Continuous enzymatic regeneration of NADH was achieved using flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD/FADH2) as redox mediator. The high specific surface area of the cathode (250 cm−1) provides favorable conditions to increase the FADH2/FAD concentration ratio and shifts the nonspontaneous reaction FADH2/NAD+ toward regeneration of NADH. Synthesis of chiral L‐lactate from pyruvate, in the presence of L‐LDH, is the model reaction used to check the ability of the microreactor to regenerate NADH; the optimized device allows quantitative yields to be reached in NAD+ conversion and in L‐lactate production. The simulation (FemLab software) results are in good agreement with the experimental mass balances for flow in the range 0.1–0.2 cm3/min. © 2008 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2008
Filtered two‐fluid models for fluidized gas‐particle suspensions
Authors: Igci Yesim , Andrews Arthur T. , Sundaresan Sankaran , Pannala Sreekanth , O'Brien Thomas
Published: March 2008

Starting from a kinetic theory based two‐fluid model for gas‐particle flows, we first construct filtered two‐fluid model equations that average over small scale inhomogeneities that we do not wish to resolve in numerical simulations. We then outline a procedure to extract constitutive models for these filtered two‐fluid models through highly resolved simulations of the kinetic theory based model equations in periodic domains. Two‐ and three‐dimensional simulations show that the closure relations for the filtered two‐fluid models manifest a definite and systematic dependence on the filter size. Linear stability analysis of the filtered two‐fluid model equations reveals that filtering does indeed remove small scale structures that are afforded by the microscopic two‐fluid model. © 2008 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 2008
The continuous depolymerization of filled polytetrafluoroethylene with a continuous process
Authors: van der Walt I. J. , Grunenburg A. T. , Nel J. T. , Maluleke G. G. , Bruinsma O. S. L.
Published: March 2008

A new method for beneficiating unfilled as well as filled polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) waste has been developed. This process does not use any carrier gas while forming the depolymerization products. It enables polymer manufacturers and end‐users to reuse and adds value to filled fluorocarbon polymer waste. The filler material was qualified by means of scanning electron microscopy and thermogravimetric analysis and the success of the depolymerization process inside a rotating kiln was proved by visual observation. The PTFE was depolymerized inside a kiln‐type reactor declined at a 5° angle, with a central rotating paddle screw to scrape the inner wall of the reactor, which was able to operate within the temperature range of 600–800°C and pressure range of 10–90 kPa. Different ratios of the useful products tetrafluoroethylene (TFE), hexafluoropropylene (HFP), and octafluorocyclobutane (OFCB) were produced. The optimum conditions for TFE production are 600°C and 10–30 kPa, for HFP production it was 800°C and 10 kPa, and for OFCB production 600°C and 90 kPa. Temperatures of 700°C should be avoided as this leads to considerable amounts of undesirable HFE and OFP as well as the very toxic PFIB. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Novel blood‐compatible waterborne polyurethane using chitosan as an extender
Authors: Xu Dan , Meng Zhen , Han Ming , Xi Kai , Jia Xudong , Yu Xuehai , Chen Qingmin
Published: March 2008

A series of novel block polymers of polyurethane (PU) and chitosan have been prepared in two steps. The first step is the preparation of PU prepolymer, obtained from polytetramethylene oxide glycol (PTMO, Mn = 1000), isophrone diisocyanate (IPDI), and 2,2′‐dimethylol propionic acid (DMPA), followed by ionizing PU prepolymer with triethylamine (TEA). The second step involves PU chain‐extended by water‐soluble chitosan of low molecular weight (Mn = 5000) by self‐emulsion polymerization method. The sizes of the latex particles, morphology, and copolymer architecture have been characterized by dynamic light scattering (DLS), general tensile test, infrared spectroscopy (IR), surface contact angle measurement, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Furthermore, it shows that the addition of chitosan remarkably increases anticoagulative property of PU elastomers confirmed by the recalcification time. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Resin. III. Synthesis, characterization, and ion‐exchange properties of a 2,2′‐dihydroxybiphenyl–formaldehyde copolymer resin
Authors: Jadhao Manjusha M. , Paliwal L. J. , Bhave N. S.
Published: March 2008

A 2,2′‐dihydroxybiphenyl–formaldehyde copolymer, synthesized by the condensation of 2,2′‐dihydroxybiphenyl with CH2O in the presence of an acid catalyst, proved to be a selective chelating ion‐exchange copolymer for certain metals. The chelating ion‐exchange properties of this copolymer were studied for Fe(III), Cu(II), Ni(II), Zn(II), Cd(II), and Pb(II) ions. A batch equilibrium method was employed in the study of the selectivity of metal ion uptake, involving the measurements of the distribution of a given metal ion between the copolymer sample and the solution containing the metal ion. The study was carried out over a wide pH range and in media of various ionic strengths. The copolymer showed a higher selectivity for Fe(III), Cu(II), and Ni(II) ions than for Co(II), Zn(II), Cd(II), and Pb(II) ions. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Preparation of poly (ethylene oxide)‐graft‐poly (acrylic acid) copolymer stabilized iron oxide nanoparticles via an in situ templated process
Authors: Li Pengpeng , Huang Junlian
Published: March 2008

Superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles were prepared in the presence of poly (ethylene oxide)‐graft‐poly (acrylic acid) copolymers via an in situ templated coprecipitation process. The resulted composite nanoparticles consisted of clusters of iron oxide monocrystals embedded inside the polymer chains, and were highly dispersible in aqueous solution. In these graft copolymers, the PAA segments were chemisorbed onto the Fe3O4 nanoparticle surface through their carboxylic acid groups by forming carboxylate groups with the Fe atoms, while PEO segments as the stabilizers extended into the water matrix. Thus the composite nanoparticles exhibited narrow size distribution by the dynamic light scattering measurement. X‐ray diffraction and magnetometer data confirmed the crystalline structure and superparamagnetic property of the particles. This procedure provided a good choice for preparing stable iron oxide magnetic nanoparticles with PEO modified surfaces. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Crosslinkable poly(vinyl acetate)/clay nanocomposite films cast from soap‐free emulsion‐polymerized latices
Authors: Chien An‐Ting , Lee Yuan‐Haun , Lin King‐Fu
Published: March 2008

Exfoliated poly(vinyl acetate) (PVAc)/montmorillonite (MMT) and poly(vinyl acetate‐co‐glycidyl methacrylate) [P(VAc‐co‐GMA)]/MMT nanocomposite latices, prepared by soap‐free emulsion polymerization, were able to be cast into films, and the latter was crosslinked with diethylene triamine as a curing agent. The glass‐transition temperature of the crosslinked P(VAc‐co‐GMA)/MMT nanocomposite films was higher than that of the PVAc/MMT counterparts. Although both the Young's modulus and yield stress for the PVAc/MMT nanocomposite films increased with the content of MMT, the extent of the increase was greater for the crosslinked P(VAc‐co‐GMA)/MMT nanocomposites. The exfoliated MMT nanoplatelets retarded the cold drawing of the PVAc matrix during tensile testing, resulting in a decrease of the elongation. However, crosslinked P(VAc‐co‐GMA)/MMT nanocomposite films still had more elongation than the PVAc/MMT counterparts. The drastic decrease of the water vapor permeability with the content of MMT for both types of nanocomposite films suggested that the exfoliated MMT nanoplatelets were dispersed evenly and flattened completely along the film surface. After all the nanocomposite film samples were burned, the inflammable residues for the samples with an MMT content higher than 5 wt % could preserve the original film profile with stiffness, and this indicated that the exfoliated MMT nanoplatelets acted as inflammable scaffolds. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Isothermal differential scanning calorimetry study of the cure kinetics of a novel aromatic maleimide with an acetylene terminal
Authors: Luo Zhenhua , Wei Liuhe , Li Wanwan , Liu Feng , Zhao Tong
Published: March 2008

An isothermal differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) study on the cure kinetics was performed on N‐(3‐acetylenephenyl)maleimide (3‐APMI) monomer to determine a suitable cure model. The 3‐APMI monomer reported in our prior article was a novel aromatic maleimide monomer with an acetylene terminal that would be an ideal candidate for heat‐resistant composites. The isothermal DSC study was carried out in the temperature range 150–200°C. Although the cure temperatures were different, the shapes of the conversion curves were similar, and all of the cure reactions could be described by an nth‐order kinetic model. In particular, the cure reaction at the initial stage was a first‐order kinetic reaction. The cure kinetic parameters of the 3‐APMI monomer, including the reaction model, activation energy, and frequency factor, were determined. This information was very useful for defining the process parameters, final properties, and quality control of the cured 3‐APMI monomer. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Visualization of the flow history contours at the cross‐section of a weld‐line in an injected molded part
Authors: Fathi Saeed , Behravesh Amir Hossein
Published: March 2008

This article presents visualization of flow history contours at the cross‐section of an injection molded part along the weld‐line originated by an obstacle pin in a plate‐shaped cavity. The visualized flow history contours unveiled the interface of the two adjacent flows through which the penetration of one flow front to the other at the interface was observed. The penetration which was the most at the core of the part behind the obstacle pin was inferred to be originated from an eccentricity in the position of the obstacle pin. Applying image processing techniques, a sequence of the variation in the shape of the interface along the weld‐line was extracted from which the amount of penetration at different distances behind the obstacle was measured. Experimental results revealed an oscillation in the direction of the penetration along the weld‐line at the core of the part. A scanning electron microscope micrography was also applied to characterize the V‐notch along the weld‐line at the surface of the molded part. V‐notch characterization was used to investigate the possible correlation between the internal and external behaviors of the molten plastic during weld‐line formation by which an obstruction affected zone at the weld‐line area behind the obstacle pin was distinguished. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Synthesis and polymerizations of new metal chelating monomers from alkyl α‐hydroxymethacrylates
Authors: Albayrak Aylin Ziylan , Avci Duygu
Published: March 2008

Two new diethyl iminodiacetate‐containing monomers (EBMA‐ID and CMAC‐ID) were synthesized through the reaction of ethyl α‐bromomethacrylate (EBMA) and α‐chloromethacryloylchloride (CMAC) with diethyl iminodiacetate (ID). The hydrolysis of the ethyl ester groups with potassium hydroxide gave two chelating monomers with potassium salt of iminodiacetic acid (EBMA‐IDA‐K+ and CMAC‐IDA‐K+). The homopolymerization and copolymerization with 2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) of EBMA‐ID and CMAC‐ID were investigated by photodifferential scanning calorimetry at 40°C using 2,2′‐dimethoxy‐2‐phenyl‐acetophenone (DMPA) as initiator. The monomers showed very low homopolymerization reactivity which may be attributed to the steric effect of N,N‐disubstituted methacrylamides, the presence of allyl amine group that can undergo degradative chain transfer and the bulky ID group close to the double bond. Also, addition of these monomers to HEMA decreased polymerization rate and conversion with fraction added. EBMA‐IDA‐K+ and CMAC‐IDA‐K+ were copolymerized with acrylamide in water using 2,2′‐azobis(N,N′‐amidinopropane) dihydrochloride (V‐50) initiator. Here also, it was observed that the incorporation of the synthesized monomers into acrylamide reduced both the rate of polymerization and conversion. The copolymers were characterized by 1H‐NMR spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The UV‐visible and TGA spectra confirmed that the synthesized monomers showed chelating ability for Ni+2 and Cr+3. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Carboxylated multiwall carbon nanotube‐reinforced thermotropic liquid crystalline polymer nanocomposites
Authors: Park Sang Ki , Kim Seong Hun , Hwang Jin Taek
Published: March 2008

Thermotropic liquid crystalline polymer (TLCP) nanocomposites reinforced with carboxylated multiwall carbon nanotube (c‐MWCNT) were prepared through melt compounding in a twin screw extruder. The thermal stability of TLCP/c‐MWCNT nanocomposites increased with even a small amount of c‐MWCNT added. The rheological properties of the TLCP/c‐MWCNT nanocomposites were depended on the c‐MWCNT contents. The contents of c‐MWCNT have a slight effect on the complex viscosity of TLCP/c‐MWCNT nanocomposites due to the high‐shear thinning of TLCP. The storage modulus of TLCP/c‐MWCNT nanocomposites was increased with increasing c‐MWCNT content. This result can be deduced that the nanotube–nanotube interactions were more dominant, and some interconnected or network‐like structures were formed in the TLCP/c‐MWCNT nanocomposites. Incorporation of very small amount of c‐MWCNT improved the mechanical properties of TLCP/c‐MWCNT nanocomposites, and this was attributed to the reinforcement effect of c‐MWCNT with high aspect ratio and their uniform dispersion through acid treatment in the TLCP matrix. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Water‐blown rigid and flexible polyurethane foams containing epoxidized soybean oil triglycerides
Authors: Tu Yuan‐Chan , Suppes Galen J. , Hsieh Fu‐Hung
Published: March 2008

Both rigid and flexible water‐blown polyurethane foams were made by replacing 0–50% of Voranol® 490 for rigid foams and Voranol® 4701 for flexible foams in the B‐side of foam formulation by epoxidized soybean oil. For rigid water‐blown polyurethane foams, density, compressive strength, and thermal conductivity were measured. Although there were no significant changes in density, compressive strength decreased and thermal conductivity decreased first and then increased with increasing epoxidized soybean oil. For flexible water‐blown polyurethane foams, density, 50% compression force deflection, 50% constant force deflection, and resilience of foams were measured. Density decreased first and then increased, no changes in 50% compression force deflection first and then increased, increasing 50% constant force deflection, and decreasing resilience with increase in epoxidized soybean oil. It appears that up to 20% of Voranol® 490 could be replaced by epoxidized soybean oil in rigid polyurethane foams. When replacing up to 20% of Voranol® 4701 by epoxidized soybean oil in flexible polyurethane foams, density and 50% compression deflection properties were similar or better than control, but resilience and 50% constant deflection compression properties were inferior. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci, 2008
Development and validation of evaluation indicators for a consortium of institutional repositories: A case study of dcollection
Authors: Kim Yong Ho , Kim Hyun Hee
Published: March 2008

This study develops evaluation indicators for a consortium of Korean institutional repositories called “dCollection” and validates the indicators against actual data from the participants of this consortium. The literature review reveals a conceptual framework for institutional repository (IR) evaluation with four categories and 19 items. In developing the initial framework, equal amounts of emphasis are put on the assessments of procedural achievement and actual performance to pinpoint the procedural weaknesses of each IR and to determine its customized solution. A Delphi method of three rounds with the help of IR librarians reveals a converging tendency pertaining to the measures of importance ascribed to the categories and items. Through a focus‐group interview with middle‐ to top‐level managers, 39 indicators derived from 19 items are identified as possessing relevancy, measurability, data availability, and differentiability. Validation of evaluation indicators employs actual evaluation data from 32 university IRs. Factor analysis shows a simpler structural pattern containing 12 factors than that of the structural pattern of the conceptual framework that contains 19 items. Correlation analysis using the factor scores identifies six key factors: Registration Rate, Archiving, Resource Allocation, System Performance, Multifunctionality, and Use Rate. The results from regression analyses suggest that two different approaches can be employed to promote the Use Rate factor. In the content‐oriented approach, the Registration Rate factor is crucial while in the policy‐oriented approach the Archiving factor assumes this role; however, the System Performance factor plays a mediating role for the key factors, thus forming a contingency for either approach.
The association of split hand foot malformation (SHFM) and congenital heart defects
Authors: Elliott Alison M. , Evans Jane A.
Published: March 2008

BACKGROUND: Split hand foot malformation (SHFM) (cleft hand, central ray deficiency) is a highly variable malformation that shows genetic heterogeneity with at least five loci mapped to date. SHFM occurs as an isolated finding or in association with other anomalies, including congenital heart defects (CHDs). METHODS: In total 48 SHFM1, 52 SHFM3, 48 SHFM4, 21 SHFM5, and four chromosome 8 patients were evaluated. In addition, we performed a literature review to identify “unmapped” SHFM patients with CHD to evaluate the various etiologies of this combination of findings. The London Dysmorphology Database also served as a resource to identify syndromes with this combination of phenotypic findings. Only patients presenting with both SHFM and CHD were included in the analysis. Classification of CHD among mapped and unmapped SHFM patients was performed utilizing the revised Clark classification. A closer inspection of the types of CHD found in this patient group was performed in order to investigate possible pathogenetic mechanisms. RESULTS: CHDs were found in 10% of SHFM1 patients, 47% of SHFM5 patients, but were not reported in SHFM2, SHFM4 patients, or patients mapped to chromosome 8. Forty‐two syndromic cases and 15 cases of unrecognized syndromes were identified. CONCLUSIONS: The higher frequency of heart defects seen in SHFM1 and SHFM5 of the mapped patient group raises the question as to whether common mechanisms/genetic players are involved. Candidate genes for SHFM1 and SHFM5 include members of the DLX homeobox gene family. Birth Defects Research (Part A), 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Embryonic development in the reduced folate carrier knockout mouse is modulated by maternal folate supplementation
Authors: Gelineau‐van Waes Janee , Heller Steven , Bauer Linda K. , Wilberding Justin , Maddox Joyce R. , Aleman Francisco , Rosenquist Thomas H. , Finnell Richard H.
Published: March 2008

BACKGROUND: The reduced folate carrier (RFC1) is a ubiquitously expressed integral membrane protein that mediates delivery of 5‐methyltetrahydrofolate into mammalian cells. In this study, embryonic/fetal development is characterized in an RFC1 knockout mouse model in which pregnant dams receive different levels of folate supplementation. METHODS: RFC1+/− males were mated to RFC1+/− females, and pregnant dams were treated with vehicle (control) or folic acid (25 or 50 mg/kg) by daily subcutaneous injection (0.1 mL/10 g bwt), beginning on E0.5 and continuing throughout gestation until the time of sacrifice. RESULTS: Without maternal folate supplementation, RFC1 nullizygous embryos die shortly postimplantation. Supplementation of pregnant dams with 25 mg/kg/day folic acid prolongs survival of mutant embryos until E9.5–E10.5, but they are developmentally delayed relative to wild‐type littermates, display a marked absence of erythropoiesis, severe neural tube and limb bud defects, and failure of chorioallantoic fusion. Fgfr2 protein levels are significantly reduced or absent in the extraembryonic membranes of RFC1 nullizygous embryos. Maternal folate supplementation with 50 mg/kg/day results in survival of 22% of RFC1 mutants to E18.5, but they develop with multiple malformations of the eyelids, lungs, heart, and skin. CONCLUSIONS: High doses of daily maternal folate supplementation during embryonic/fetal development are necessary for early postimplantation embryonic viability of RFC1 nullizygous embryos, and play a critical role in chorioallantoic fusion, erythropoiesis, and proper development of the neural tube, limbs, lungs, heart, and skin. Birth Defects Research (Part A), 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Extremely low frequency (ELF) electric and magnetic field exposure limits: Rationale for basic restrictions used in the development of an Australian standard
Authors: Wood Andrew W.
Published: March 2008

There are large disparities between basic restrictions for exposure to extremely low‐frequency (0–3 kHz) Electric and Magnetic Fields set by two major international bodies. Both bodies agree that these basic restrictions should prevent neuro‐stimulatory effects: the retinal phosphene at frequencies up to a few hundred Hertz and peripheral nervous stimulation (PNS) at higher frequencies. The disparity arises from differences in estimated thresholds and frequency dependence, and whether restrictions should be of tissue induced current density or electric field. This paper argues that the latter metric more directly relates to neurostimulatory processes. By analysing available literature, a threshold for retinal phosphenes occurrence is found to be 56 mV/m (95% Confidence Interval 2–1330 mV/m), with a characteristic frequency of 20 Hz. Similarly, the smallest PNS sensation threshold is identified at 2 V/m (characteristic frequency above 3 kHz). In the case of the former, the large range of uncertainty suggests a ‘power of ten’ value of 100 mV/m. For the latter, because of the small margin between sensation and pain threshold, and because of the large individual variation, the smallest estimate of sensation threshold (2 V/m) represents a basic restriction with precaution incorporated. Bioelectromagnetics 29:414–428, 2008. © 2008 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Conformational studies of hexapeptides containing two dehydroamino acid residues in positions 2 and 5 in peptide chain
Authors: Latajka Rafal , Jewginski Michal , Makowski Maciej , Krezel Artur , Paluch Slawomir
Published: March 2008

Conformational preferences of a group of hexapeptides containing two dehydroamino acid residues in Positions 2 and 5 in peptide chain were investigated by means of spectroscopic methods (NMR and CD) and theoretical calculations. In the case of dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) solution, only peptide with free N‐termini adopted rigid 310‐helical conformation, for the rest of examined peptides extended and “zig‐zag” conformers were predominant. CD measurements showed that only in chloroform solution the conformational freedom of investigated peptides was restricted. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 89: 691–699, 2008.

This article was originally published online as an accepted preprint. The “Published Online” date corresponds to the preprint version. You can request a copy of the preprint by emailing the Biopolymers editorial office at biopolymers@wiley.com
Lipopolysaccharide‐induced monocyte chemotactic protein‐1 is enhanced by suppression of nitric oxide production, which depends on poor CD14 expression on the surface of skeletal muscle
Authors: Kawanishi Noriaki , Tanaka Yohei , Kato Yasuko , Shiva Daisuke , Yano Hiromi
Published: March 2008

It is known that lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced monocyte chemotactic protein (MCP)‐1 secretion from tissues recruits monocytes from the circulation, but the mechanism of the LPS‐induced MCP‐1 production in skeletal muscle is largely unexplained. To clarify the effect of LPS on MCP‐1 production in skeletal muscle cells, C2C12 cells from a mouse skeletal muscle cell line, and RAW 264.7 cells from a mouse macrophage cell line, were used to assess production of LPS‐induced MCP‐1, nitric oxide (NO) and interferon (IFN)‐β. In addition, we evaluated inducible NO synthases (iNOS) mRNA expression using RT‐PCR, and cell surface expression of CD14 and toll‐like receptor (TLR) 4 using flow cytometry. In C2C12 cells, LPS stimulation increased MCP‐1 production (p < 0.01), but combined treatment with LPS and NO inducer, diethylammonium (Z)‐1‐(N,N‐diethylamino) diazen‐1‐ium‐1,2‐diolate (NONOate), significantly inhibited its production (p < 0.01). LPS stimulation neither induced production of NO nor of IFN‐β, which is an NO inducer. Recombinant IFN‐β stimulation, on the other hand, enhanced LPS‐induced NO production (p < 0.01). Interestingly, we found that surface expression of CD14, which regulates IFN‐β production, in C2C12 cells was much lower than that in RAW 264.7 cells, although TLR4 expression on C2C12 cells was similar to that on RAW 264.7 cells. These data suggest that the reduced NO production in response to LPS may depend on low expression of CD14 on the cell surface of skeletal muscle, and that it may enhance LPS‐induced MCP‐1 production. Together, these functions of skeletal muscle could decrease the risk of bacterial infection by recruitment of monocytes. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Self‐Organization of Dendritic Supermolecules, Based on Isocyanide–Gold(I), –Copper(I), –Palladium(II), and –Platinum(II) Complexes, into Micellar Cubic Mesophases
Authors: Coco Silverio , Cordovilla Carlos , Donnio Bertrand , Espinet Pablo , García‐Casas María Jesús , Guillon Daniel
Published: March 2008

First‐ and second‐generation dendrimers with an isocyanide group as the focal functional point (CN‐Gn; n: 1,2) and their corresponding organometallic complexes [MCl(CN‐Gn)] (M: Au, Cu), [{CuCl(CN‐Gn)2}2], and trans‐[MI2(CN‐Gn)2] (M: Pd, Pt) have been synthesized. The free ligands and the first‐generation complexes do not show mesogenic behavior, but all of the second‐generation complexes display a thermotropic micellar cubic mesophase, over a large temperature range, and some of them directly at room temperature. The structure of the mesophase consists of the packing of two, discrete polyhedral micellar aggregates in a three‐dimensional cubic Im$\bar 3$m lattice.
68Ga‐PET: a powerful generator‐based alternative to cyclotron‐based PET radiopharmaceuticals
Authors: Fani Melpomeni , André João P. , Maecke Helmut R.
Published: March 2008

PET (positron emission tomography) is a powerful diagnostic and imaging technique which requires short‐lived positron emitting isotopes. The most commonly used are accelerator‐produced 11C and 18F. An alternative is the use of metallic positron emitters. Among them 68Ga deserves special attention because of its availability from long‐lived 68Ge/68Ga generator systems which render 68Ga radiopharmacy independent of an onsite cyclotron. The coordination chemistry of Ga3+ is dominated by its hard acid character. A variety of mono‐ and bifunctional chelators have been developed which allow the formation of stable 68Ga3+complexes and convenient coupling to biomolecules. 68Ga coupling to small biomolecules is potentially an alternative to 18F‐ and 11C‐based radiopharmacy. In particular, peptides targeting G‐protein coupled receptors overexpressed on human tumour cells have shown preclinically and clinically high and specific tumour uptake. Kit‐formulated precursors along with the generator may be provided, similar to the 99Mo/99mTc‐based radiopharmacy, still the mainstay of nuclear medicine. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Functional imaging of neuroendocrine tumors with combined PET/CT using 68Ga‐DOTATATE (DOTA‐DPhe1,Tyr3‐octreotate) and 18F‐FDG
Authors: Kayani Irfan , Bomanji Jamshed B. , Groves Ashley , Conway Gerard , Gacinovic Sveto , Win Thida , Dickson John , Caplin Martyn , Ell Peter Joseph
Published: March 2008

BACKGROUND.

The aim was to assess the relevant distribution of the novel PET tracer 68Ga‐DOTATATE in neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) with combined positron emission tomography / computed tomography (PET/CT) and compare its performance with that of 18F‐FDG PET/CT.

METHODS.

The imaging findings with 68Ga‐DOTATATE and 18F‐FDG on 38 consecutive patients with a diagnosis of primary or recurrent NET were compared and correlated with tumor grade on histology based on ki67 and mitotic index.

RESULTS.

The sensitivity of 68Ga‐DOTATATE PET/CT was 82% (31 of 38) and that of 18F‐FDG PET/CT was 66% (25 of 38). The sensitivity of combined 68Ga‐DOTATATE and 18F‐FDG PET/CT was 92% (35 of 38). There was greater uptake of 68Ga‐DOTATATE than 18F‐FDG in low‐grade NET (median SUV 29 vs 2.9, P < .001). In high‐grade NET there was higher uptake of 18F‐FDG over 68Ga‐DOTATATE (median SUV 11.7 vs 4.4, P = .03). There was a significant correlation with predominant tumor uptake of 68Ga‐DOTATATE or 18F‐FDG and tumor grade on histology (P < .0001).

CONCLUSIONS.

68Ga‐DOTATATE PET/CT is a useful novel imaging modality for NETs and is superior to 18F‐FDG for imaging well‐differentiated NET. Functional imaging with both 68Ga‐DOTATATE and 18F‐FDG has potential for a more comprehensive tumor assessment in intermediate‐ and high‐grade tumors. Cancer 2008. ©2008 American Cancer Society.
Separating surgical quality from causality—Gaining perspective in the debate on lymph node count and extent of lymphadenectomy
Authors: Gilbert Scott M.
Published: March 2008

Although the number of lymph nodes removed during lymphadenectomy is associated with survival in several cancers, the survival association has been based primarily on observational data, and causality has not been confirmed through randomized surgical trials. Certainly, the number of lymph nodes removed and the extent of lymphadenectomy are likely related to surgical quality at some level; however, a direct connection to survival is less likely.
Antiandrogen withdrawal in castrate‐refractory prostate cancer
Authors: Sartor A. Oliver , Tangen Catherine M. , Hussain Maha H. A. , Eisenberger Mario A. , Parab Minoti , Fontana Joseph A. , Chapman Robert A. , Mills Glenn M. , Raghavan Derek , Crawford E. David
Published: March 2008

BACKGROUND.

Antiandrogen withdrawal is a potential therapeutic maneuver for patients with progressive prostate cancer. This study was designed to examine antiandrogen withdrawal effects within the context of a large multi‐institutional prospective trial.

METHODS.

Eligibility criteria included progressive prostate adenocarcinoma despite combined androgen blockade. Eligible patients received prior initial treatment with an antiandrogen plus orchiectomy or luteinizing hormone‐releasing hormone (LHRH) agonist. Patients were stratified according to type of antiandrogen, type of progression (prostate‐specific antigen [PSA] or radiographic), presence or absence of metastatic disease, and prior LHRH agonist versus surgical castration.

RESULTS.

A total of 210 eligible and evaluable patients had a median follow‐up of 5.0 years; 64% of patients previously received flutamide, 32% bicalutamide, and 3% nilutamide. Of the 210 patients, 21% of patients had confirmed PSA decreases of ≥50% (95% CI, 16% to 27%). No radiographic responses were recorded. Median progression‐free survival (PFS) was 3 months (95% CI, 2 months to 4 months); however, 19% had 12‐month or greater progression‐free intervals. Median overall survival (OS) after antiandrogen withdrawal was 22 months (20 and 40 months for those with and without radiographic evidence of metastatic disease, respectively). Multivariate analyses indicated that longer duration of antiandrogen use, lower PSA at baseline, and PSA‐only progression at study entry were associated with both longer PFS and OS. Longer antiandrogen use was the only significant predictor of PSA response.

CONCLUSIONS.

These data indicate a relatively modest rate of PSA response in patients who were undergoing antiandrogen withdrawal; however, PFS can be relatively prolonged (≥1 year) in approximately 19% of patients. Cancer 2008. © 2008 American Cancer Society.
Hessian estimates for the sigma‐2 equationin dimension 3
Authors: Warren Micah , Yuan Yu
Published: March 2008

We derive a priori interior Hessian estimates for the special Lagrangian equation σ2 = 1 in dimension 3. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Experimental study on the extraction and distribution of textual domain keywords
Authors: Luo Xiangfeng , Fang Ning , Xu Weimin , Yu Sheng , Yan Kai , Xiao Huizhe
Published: March 2008

Domain keywords of text play a primary role in text classifying, clustering and personalized services. This paper proposes a term frequency inverse document frequency (TFIDF) based method called TDDF (TFIDF direct document frequency of domain) to extract domain keywords from multi‐texts. First, we discuss the optimal parameters of TFIDF, which are used to extract textual keywords and domain keywords. Second, TDDF is proposed to extract domain keywords from multi‐texts, which takes document frequency of domain into account. Finally, the distribution of domain keywords on scientific texts is studied. Experiments and applications show that TDDF is more effective than the optimal TFIDF in the extraction of domain keywords. Domain keywords accord with normal distribution on a single text after deleting the ubiquitous domain keywords. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
From synapses to behavior: Development of a sensory‐motor circuit in the leech
Authors: Marin‐Burgin Antonia , Kristan William B. , French Kathleen A.
Published: March 2008

The development of neuronal circuits has been advanced greatly by the use of imaging techniques that reveal the activity of neurons during the period when they are constructing synapses and forming circuits. This review focuses on experiments performed in leech embryos to characterize the development of a neuronal circuit that produces a simple segmental behavior called “local bending.” The experiments combined electrophysiology, anatomy, and FRET‐based voltage‐sensitive dyes (VSDs). The VSDs offered two major advantages in these experiments: they allowed us to record simultaneously the activity of many neurons, and unlike other imaging techniques, they revealed inhibition as well as excitation. The results indicated that connections within the circuit are formed in a predictable sequence: initially neurons in the circuit are connected by electrical synapses, forming a network that itself generates an embryonic behavior and prefigures the adult circuit; later chemical synapses, including inhibitory connections, appear, “sculpting” the circuit to generate a different, mature behavior. In this developmental process, some of the electrical connections are completely replaced by chemical synapses, others are maintained into adulthood, and still others persist and share their targets with chemical synaptic connections. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol, 2008
Imaging second messenger dynamics in developing neural circuits
Authors: Dunn Timothy A. , Feller Marla B.
Published: March 2008

A characteristic feature of developing neural circuits is that they are spontaneously active. There are several examples, including the retina, spinal cord, and hippocampus, where spontaneous activity is highly correlated among neighboring cells, with large depolarizing events occurring with a periodicity on the order of minutes. One likely mechanism by which neurons can “decode” these slow oscillations is through activation of second messenger cascades that either influence transcriptional activity or drive posttranslational modifications. Here, we describe recent experiments where imaging has been used to characterize slow oscillations in the cAMP/PKA second messenger cascade in retinal neurons. We review the latest techniques in imaging this specific second messenger cascade, its intimate relationship with changes in intracellular calcium concentration, and several hypotheses regarding its role in neurodevelopment. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol, 2008
Molecular MALDI imaging: An emerging technology for neuroscience studies
Authors: Wisztorski Maxence , Croix Dominique , Macagno Eduardo , Fournier Isabelle , Salzet Michel
Published: March 2008

Mass spectrometry (MS) has become an essential tool for the detection, identification, and characterization of the molecular components of biological processes, such as those responsible for the dynamic properties of the nervous system. Generally, the application of these powerful techniques requires the destruction of the specimen under study, but recent technological advances have made it possible to apply the matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) MS technique directly to tissue sections. The major advantage of direct MALDI analysis is that it enables the acquisition of local molecular expression profiles, while maintaining the topographic integrity of the tissue and avoiding time‐consuming extraction, purification, and separation steps, which have the potential for introducing artifacts. With automation and the ability to display complex spectral data using imaging software, it is now possible to create multiple 2D maps of selected biomolecules in register with tissue sections, a method now known as MALDI Imaging, or MSI (for Mass Spectrometry Imaging). This creates, for example, an opportunity to correlate functional states, determined a priori with live recording or imaging, with the corresponding molecular maps obtained at the time the tissue is frozen and analyzed with MSI. We review the increasing application of MALDI Imaging to the analysis of molecular distributions of proteins and peptides in nervous tissues of both vertebrates and invertebrates, focusing in particular on recent studies of neurodegenerative diseases and early efforts to implement assays of neuronal development. © 2008 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Develop Neurobiol, 2008