bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Geophysics in support of industrial archaeology in a challenging environment: Shade iron furnace, Pennsylvania, USA
Authors: Kulessa Bernd , Chiarulli Beverly , Haney Susanne
Published: November 2004

The value of geophysical methods in investigating iron furnaces in North America (of which several hundred exist) has so far been poorly evaluated. We report on the magnetic gradiometer and electrical resistivity surveys conducted at the Shade iron furnace, Pennsylvania, USA, together with results from ground‐truthing excavations. We find that (i) numerous useful data sets could be recorded despite challenging field conditions; (ii) reconnaissance gradiometer and resistivity data yield complementary information allowing large‐scale site reconstruction; (iii) high‐resolution resistivity data reflect archaeologically valuable site lithologies with decimetre‐scale accuracy; and (iv) extreme absolute background values (several hundred nT) of, and spatial contrasts (several hundred to > 1000 nT) in, the gradiometer data are common owing to the presence of much burnt material and iron artefacts. We conclude that geophysical investigations of iron furnaces in North America may yield spatially extensive subsurface information of substantial archaeological value, which is impossible to obtain using traditional archaeological survey methods alone. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The presence of citrullinated proteins is not specific for rheumatoid synovial tissue
Authors: Vossenaar Erik R. , Smeets Tom J. M. , Kraan Maarten C. , Raats Jos M. , Van Venrooij Walther J. , Tak Paul P.
Published: November 2004

Objective

Antibodies directed toward citrullinated proteins (e.g., anti–cyclic citrullinated peptide antibodies) are highly specific for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and are produced locally at the site of inflammation. Although the presence of citrullinated proteins in rheumatoid synovium has been described in the literature, it is uncertain whether their presence is specific for RA. The present study was undertaken to investigate this.

Methods

The local production of the anti–citrullinated protein antibodies was investigated by comparing the concentration of the antibodies (corrected for the total amount of IgG present) in paired samples of serum and synovial fluid from RA patients. The presence of citrullinated proteins in the synovial tissue was investigated by immunohistochemical analysis of synovial tissue from RA patients and from patients with other arthropathies, using a variety of specific antibodies to citrullinated proteins.

Results

In RA patients, anti–citrullinated protein antibodies constituted a 1.4‐fold higher proportion of IgG in synovial fluid compared with serum, which is indicative of a local production of the antibodies. Immunohistochemical staining of citrullinated proteins was observed in the lining layer, the sublining layer, and in extravascular fibrin deposits in inflamed synovial tissue from RA as well as non‐RA patients.

Conclusion

The presence of citrullinated proteins in the inflamed synovium is not specific for RA, but rather, it may be an inflammation‐associated phenomenon. The high specificity of the anti–citrullinated protein antibodies is, therefore, most likely the result of an abnormal humoral response to these proteins.
Autoreactive CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes to major histocompatibility complex class I chain–related gene A in patients with Behçet's disease
Authors: Yasuoka Hidekata , Okazaki Yuka , Kawakami Yutaka , Hirakata Michito , Inoko Hidetoshi , Ikeda Yasuo , Kuwana Masataka
Published: November 2004

Objective

To detect and characterize the autoreactive CD8+ T cells to major histocompatibility complex class I chain–related gene A (MICA), a stress‐inducible antigen preferentially expressed on the epithelium and endothelium, in patients with Behçet's disease (BD).

Methods

A candidate for the antigenic MICA peptide was selected based on its predicted binding affinity for HLA–B51 and proteasomal cleavage sites. Peripheral blood T cells from 14 patients with BD and 15 healthy controls were repeatedly stimulated with the MICA peptide, and the specific T cell response was measured by peptide‐induced interferon‐γ. Cytotoxic T lymphocyte activity was examined by chromium‐51 release from an HLA–B51–transfected B cell line in the presence of the MICA peptide.

Results

A 9‐mer peptide AAAAAIFVI (termed MICA transmembrane [MICA‐TM]) was selected as a candidate for the antigenic peptide presented by HLA–B51. A specific T cell response to MICA‐TM was detected in 4 patients with BD (29%) but in none of the 15 healthy donors. All 4 responders had HLA–B51 and active disease, and the specific T cell response was lost after the BD‐related symptoms disappeared. The MICA‐induced T cell response was specifically inhibited by anti–HLA class I antibody or by CD8+ cell depletion. MICA‐reactive T cells recognized an HLA–B51–transfected B cell line pulsed with MICA‐TM or a B cell line transfected with both HLA–B51 and MICA in the absence of exogenous peptides. Finally, MICA‐stimulated T cell lines lysed the HLA–B51–expressing B cell line in the presence of MICA‐TM.

Conclusion

HLA–B51–restricted cytotoxic T lymphocytes autoreactive to MICA may be involved in the pathogenesis of BD.
Anti–lipoprotein lipase antibodies: A new player in the complex atherosclerotic process in systemic lupus erythematosus?
Authors: de Carvalho Jozélio Freire , Borba Eduardo Ferreira , Viana Vilma Santos Trindade , Bueno Cleonice , Leon Elaine Pires , Bonfá Eloísa
Published: November 2004

Objective

The novel description of antibodies to lipoprotein lipase (anti‐LPL) associated with dyslipoproteinemia prompted us to analyze the association of anti‐LPL with clinical and serologic features in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and its link to markers of inflammation that are known to be involved in atherogenesis.

Methods

Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay was used to test for the presence of anti‐LPL antibodies in 66 consecutive patients with SLE. Clinical and laboratory evaluation, including a fasting lipid profile, autoantibody screening, an assessment for markers of inflammation (C‐reactive protein [CRP], erythrocyte sedimentation rate [ESR]), and the SLE Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI) were performed at the time of inclusion in the study. Exclusion criteria were any conditions that affect the lipid profile. SLE patients were categorized into 2 groups according to detection of these anti‐LPL antibodies, as follows: anti‐LPL+ and anti‐LPL−.

Results

Anti‐LPL antibody IgG was detected in 25 SLE patients (37.8%). Triglyceride levels were significantly higher in the anti‐LPL+ group (112.4 ± 50.2 versus 89.9 ± 54.5 mg/dl in the anti‐LPL− group; P = 0.033), but no significant differences between the 2 groups were detected for total, high‐density lipoprotein, and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. A higher frequency of elevated CRP levels and ESRs was observed in the anti‐LPL+ group compared with the anti‐LPL− group (44% and 17.1%, respectively [P = 0.023] and 52% and 19.5%, respectively [P = 0.013]). Moreover, SLE patients with anti‐LPL antibodies also had significantly higher levels of CRP (11.1 ± 16.4 versus 2.4 ± 2.6 μg/ml; P = 0.036) and higher ESRs (33.4 ± 29.8 versus 16.5 ± 11.8 mm/hour; P = 0.020). Anti‐LPL titers had a significant positive correlation with the CRP level (r = 0.56, P < 0.001), the ESR (r = 0.55, P < 0.001), the SLEDAI score (r = 0.45, P < 0.001), anti–double‐stranded DNA (anti‐dsDNA; r = 0.52, P < 0.001), and anticardiolipin IgG antibodies (r = 0.25, P = 0.04), and a significant negative correlation was detected with total hemolytic complement activity (CH100) (r = −0.34, P = 0.005). Reinforcing these findings, multiple regression analysis also revealed a significant association of anti‐LPL with the CRP level (P = 0.025) and anti‐dsDNA (P < 0.001). Importantly, a comparison of positive and negative anti‐dsDNA sera revealed similar mean CRP levels (P = 0.56) and ESRs (P = 0.102), contrasting with the SLEDAI score (P = 0.004) and CH100 (P = 0.008).

Conclusion

These data support the link between inflammation, immune response, and dyslipoproteinemia in SLE, introducing anti‐LPL as a possible new player that may ultimately help in understanding the complex events of atherogenesis in this disease.
Tübbinge aus Stahlfaserbeton: Optimierung der Bewehrung durch experimentelle Untersuchungen
Authors: Suter René , Bergmeister Konrad
Published: November 2004

Ziel dieser Untersuchungen an vorgefertigten Tübbingen aus Stahl‐ und Stahlfaserbeton war es, das Zusammenwirken von Stabbewehrung und Stahlfasern an Bauteilen im Maßstab 1:1 zu beurteilen. Die Belastungsversuche bezogen sich in einer ersten Phase auf die stark beanspruchten Randzonen und in einer zweiten Phase auf ganze Tübbingelemente. Die Untersuchungen haben gezeigt, daß die Stahlfaserbewehrung einen Teil der Stabbewehrung, insbesondere die aufwendige Bügelbewehrung in den Randzonen, ersetzen kann. Es ist jedoch nicht angezeigt, bei Tübbingen mit großen Radien auf eine Biegebewehrung mit Stabstählen gänzlich zu verzichten. Für kleine Tunnelradien kann eine reine Stahlfaserbewehrung unter Umständen ein befriedigendes Verhalten bezüglich Tragsicherheit und Gebrauchstauglichkeit gewährleisten. Die beschränkte Anzahl der Versuche erlaubt es jedoch nicht, allgemein gültige Folgerungen zu diesem komplexen Problem zu ziehen. Insbesondere ist es aufgrund dieser Versuche nicht möglich, einen Grenzradius oder einen Mindestgehalt an Stahlfasern zu nennen.
Vorspannung intern, extern, mit und ohne Verbund: Wo liegt das Optimum, was bringt die Zukunft?
Authors: Heiler Heinz , Scheibe Matthias
Published: November 2004

Die 65 Jahre Spannbetonbrückenbau beginnend mit der Bahnhofsbrücke in Aue (Bild 1) bis zur heutigen Zeit führten in Deutschland zu einem augenblicklichen Bestand von annähernd 30500 Brücken, über die Tag für Tag ein an Häufigkeit und Last mehr als verdoppelter Verkehr rollt. Die Spannbetonbauweise hat damit sicherlich ihre Leistungsfähigkeit bewiesen. Durch die Kreativität der beteiligten Ingenieure und den starken Wettbewerbsdruck sind in den letzten Jahren erhebliche Fortschritte zur Qualitätsverbesserung gemacht worden. Die nachfolgenden Ausführungen stellen den Stand der augenblicklich verfügbaren Spannverfahren dar und sollen einen Weg für die Zukunft aufzeigen.
Eine ungewöhnliche Taktschiebebrücke: Überwurf im Autobahnkreuz Münster‐Süd
Authors: Kosza Peter , Krautwald Winfried , Schmitz Christoph
Published: November 2004

In jüngster Zeit werden von den Straßenbauverwaltungen zunehmend Stahl‐ bzw. Stahlverbundlösungen für Brückenüberbauten gewählt. Es werden immer weniger Spannbetonbrücken ausgeschrieben und gebaut. Die Anwendung der externen Vorspannung für Kastenquerschnitte hat diesen Trend nicht aufhalten können. Das Brückenbauwerk “Überwurf im AK Münster‐Süd” zeigt, daß derartige Bauwerke auch unter extremen Randbedingungen wirtschaftlich günstiger erstellt werden können. Zum anderen zeigt dieses Beispiel, daß Architektur und Gestaltung den Stahlverbundlösungen in nichts nachstehen.
Furfural, 5‐hydroxymethyl furfural, and acetoin act as external electron acceptors during anaerobic fermentation of xylose in recombinant Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Wahlbom C. Fredrik , Hahn–Hägerdal Bärbel
Published: November 2004

The electron acceptors acetoin, acetaldehyde, furfural, and 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) were added to anaerobic batch fermentation of xylose by recombinant, xylose utilising Saccharomyces cerevisiae TMB 3001. The intracellular fluxes during xylose fermentation before and after acetoin addition were calculated with metabolic flux analysis. Acetoin halted xylitol excretion and decreased the flux through the oxidative pentose phosphate pathway. The yield of ethanol increased from 0.62 mol ethanol/mol xylose to 1.35 mol ethanol/mol xylose, and the cell more than doubled its specific ATP production after acetoin addition compared to fermentation of xylose only. This did, however, not result in biomass growth. The xylitol excretion was also decreased by furfural and acetaldehyde but was unchanged by HMF. Thus, furfural present in lignocellulosic hydrolysate can be beneficial for ethanolic fermentation of xylose. Enzymatic analyses showed that the reduction of acetoin and furfural required NADH, whereas the reduction of HMF required NADPH. The enzymatic activity responsible for furfural reduction was considerably higher than for HMF reduction and also in situ furfural conversion was higher than HMF conversion. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biotechnol Bioeng 78: 172–178, 2002; DOI 10.1002/bit.10188
Pulsed electric field stimulates plant secondary metabolism in suspension cultures of Taxus chinensis*
Authors: Ye Hong , Huang Lin‐Ling , Chen Shu‐De , Zhong Jian‐Jiang
Published: November 2004

The effects of pulsed electric field (PEF) on growth and secondary metabolite production by plant cell culture were investigated by using suspension cultures of Taxus chinensis as a model system. Cultured cells in different growth phases were exposed to a PEF (50 Hz, 10 V/m) for various periods of time. A significant increase in intracellular accumulation of taxuyunnanine C (Tc), a bioactive secondary metabolite, was observed by exposing the cells in the early exponential growth phase to a 30‐min PEF. The Tc content (i.e., the specific production based on dry cell weight) was increased by 30% after exposure to PEF, without loss of biomass, compared with the control. The combination of PEF treatment and sucrose feeding proved useful for improving secondary metabolite formation. Production levels of reactive oxygen species, extracellular Tc, and phenolics were all increased, whereas cell capacitance was decreased with PEF treatment. The results show that PEF induced a defense response of plant cells and may have altered the cell/membrane's dielectric properties. PEF, an external stimulus or stress, is proposed as a promising new abiotic elicitor for stimulating secondary metabolite biosynthesis in plant cell cultures. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Comparative proteomic analysis of GS‐NS0 murine myeloma cell lines with varying recombinant monoclonal antibody production rate
Authors: Smales C.M. , Dinnis D.M. , Stansfield S.H. , Alete D. , Sage E.A. , Birch J.R. , Racher A.J. , Marshall C.T. , James D.C.
Published: November 2004

We have employed an inverse engineering strategy based on quantitative proteome analysis to identify changes in intracellular protein abundance that correlate with increased specific recombinant monoclonal antibody production (qMab) by engineered murine myeloma (NS0) cells. Four homogeneous NS0 cell lines differing in qMab were isolated from a pool of primary transfectants. The proteome of each stably transfected cell line was analyzed at mid‐exponential growth phase by two‐dimensional gel electrophoresis (2D‐PAGE) and individual protein spot volume data derived from digitized gel images were compared statistically. To identify changes in protein abundance associated with qMab datasets were screened for proteins that exhibited either a linear correlation with cell line qMab or a conserved change in abundance specific only to the cell line with highest qMab. Several proteins with altered abundance were identified by mass spectrometry. Proteins exhibiting a significant increase in abundance with increasing qMab included molecular chaperones known to interact directly with nascent immunoglobulins during their folding and assembly (e.g., BiP, endoplasmin, protein disulfide isomerase). 2D‐PAGE analysis showed that in all cell lines Mab light chain was more abundant than heavy chain, indicating that this is a likely prerequisite for efficient Mab production. In summary, these data reveal both the adaptive responses and molecular mechanisms enabling mammalian cells in culture to achieve high‐level recombinant monoclonal antibody production. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Mineralization of LCFA associated with anaerobic sludge: Kinetics, enhancement of methanogenic activity, and effect of VFA
Authors: Pereira M.A. , Sousa D.Z. , Mota M. , Alves M.M.
Published: November 2004

Long‐chain fatty acids (LCFA) associated with anaerobic sludge by mechanisms of precipitation, adsorption, or entrapment can be biodegraded to methane. The mineralization kinetics of biomass‐associated LCFA were established according to an inhibition model based on Haldane's enzymatic inhibition kinetics. A value around 1,000 mg COD‐LCFA·.g VSS−1 was obtained for the optimal specific LCFA content that allowed the maximal mineralization rate. For sludge with specific LCFA contents of 2,838 ± 63 and 4,571 ± 257 mg COD‐LCFA·.g VSS−1, the specific methanogenic activities in the presence of acetate, butyrate, and H2/CO2 were significantly enhanced after the mineralization of the biomass‐associated LCFA. For sludge with a specific LCFA content near the optimal value defined by the kinetic model, the effect of adding VFA to the medium was studied during the mineralization of the biomass‐associated LCFA. Different patterns were obtained for each individual substrate. Acetate and butyrate were preferentially consumed by the consortium, but in the case of propionate no evidence of a sequential consumption pattern could be withdrawn. It was concluded that LCFA do not exert a bactericidal neither a permanent toxic effect toward the anaerobic consortia. A discussion is addressed to the relative roles of a reversible inhibitory effect and a transport limitation effect imposed by the LCFA surrounding the cells. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Aggressive fibromatosis of the abdominal wall, limbs and limb girdles
Authors: Phillips S R , A'Hern R , Thomas J M
Published: November 2004

Background

Aggressive fibromatosis (AF) is a rare soft-tissue tumour. It is histologically benign but locally aggressive and destructive. Surgery is the mainstay of treatment. This was a review of patients treated at the Royal Marsden Hospital between 1986 and 2003.

Methods

Records of patients with abdominal wall (23) and limb or limb girdle (86) AF were studied to determine patient, tumour and treatment characteristics and outcome. Children and patients with intra-abdominal AF were excluded. The data were analysed by Cox regression to calculate univariate hazard ratios.

Results

Twenty-one (19·3 per cent) of 109 patients developed recurrence after a median follow-up of 39 months. Recurrence did not correlate with surgical margin or any other variable.

Conclusion

Wide excisional, function-preserving surgery is the goal in treatment of AF. Surgery for recurrent disease is often curative. Tumours are frequently irresectable at presentation and an initial period of expectant observation is advisable because growth arrest is a common feature of the disease.
Randomized clinical trial comparing radioisotope occult lesion localization and wire-guided excision for biopsy of occult breast lesions
Authors: Rampaul R S , Bagnall M , Burrell H , Pinder S E , Evans A J , Macmillan R D
Published: November 2004

Background

Accurate localization of impalpable breast lesions that require biopsy is important. This randomized trial compared radioisotope occult lesion localization (ROLL) with the standard hooked-wire technique.

Methods

Ninety-five patients were randomized to receive either ROLL or wire localization of an occult breast lesion. Correct placement of isotope was confirmed by mammography and a hand-held γ probe was used to guide the surgical excision. Radiological, surgical and pathological data were compared for accuracy, duration and ease of technique, and histopathological diagnosis. Procedure-related pain was also assessed.

Results

Of the 95 patients entered, 48 were randomized to ROLL and 47 to wire localization. Two ROLL procedures failed. Marking was accurate in 46 of 48 ROLL procedures and 44 of 47 of wire localizations (P = 0·242). Difficulty in localization (Likert score 2·6 for ROLL versus 4·4 for wire localization; P < 0·001) and the degree of surgical difficulty (2·6 versus 4·0; P < 0·001) were significantly less for ROLL. ROLL was associated with less pain (score 2·7 versus 3·6; P = 0·012). There were no significant differences in mean duration of operation, specimen weight, need for intraoperative re-excision or second therapeutic operation.

Conclusion

ROLL and wire-guided localization were similarly effective for breast biopsy, but ROLL was easier for both radiologist and surgeon, and less painful for the patient.
Surgical management of primary and recurrent retroperitoneal liposarcoma
Authors: Neuhaus S J , Barry P , Clark M A , Hayes A J , Fisher C , Thomas J M
Published: November 2004

Background

Surgery plays a dominant role in the initial and subsequent treatment of retroperitoneal liposarcoma (RPLS). This study was a review of outcomes of patients treated at the Royal Marsden Hospital.

Methods

Records of all patients who had surgery for RPLS since 1990 were reviewed, with particular attention to local recurrence and disease-specific survival. Patients with primary RPLS and those with recurrent RPLS, who had palliative surgery after a variable number of operations performed elsewhere, were considered separately.

Results

Seventy-two patients had surgery for primary RPLS, over half of whom underwent resection of a contiguous organ to achieve clearance. Follow-up of at least 12 months was available for 58 patients. Thirty-four patients had no evidence of recurrence after median follow-up of 26 (range 12–151) months. Low-grade tumour and macroscopic clearance of tumour were significantly associated with a reduced risk of local recurrence and improved survival. Forty-seven patients had palliative surgery for recurrent RPLS. Median survival from time of last operation to death was 27 (range 0–79) months. Follow-up was to a median of 68 (range 14–261) months.

Conclusion

Patients with low-grade RPLS that has been completely resected at the initial operation have the most favourable prognosis. Palliative resection is worthwhile to treat troublesome symptoms of recurrence
Implications of screening for abdominal aortic aneurysms on surgical workload
Authors: Kim L G , Scott R A P , Thompson S G , Collin J , Morris G E , Sutton G L , Wilson N M
Published: November 2004

Background

The Multicentre Aneurysm Screening Study (MASS) provided strong evidence for both the clinical benefit and the cost-effectiveness of a screening programme for abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) in men. If a national screening programme for AAA were adopted in the UK, it would be expected to increase the elective and decrease the emergency surgical workload.

Methods

The MASS trial randomized 67 800 men aged 65–74 years to be invited to attend for ultrasonographic screening for AAA or to a control group that received no invitation. Predictions of elective and emergency surgical workload were made for a 20-year interval after the introduction of a screening programme for 65-year-old men, based on surgical rates observed in the MASS trial and national mortality statistics.

Results

For a district general hospital serving a population of 400 000, there was an estimated reduction from nine emergency operations per year before introduction of the screening programme to three emergency operations annually in men aged 65 years and over by the end of the 20-year interval, and an increase from 24 to 43 AAA operations overall. The corresponding estimated annual costs for all AAA surgery increased by 47 per cent, from £209 000 to £308 000. These results were not affected by changes in the underlying assumptions.

Conclusion

The results support the expectation of very few emergency operations, and principally elective operations, being performed following the introduction of a screening programme. For a typical district general hospital, a screening programme would be expected to lead to two additional elective AAA operations per month, and to save 11 AAA-related deaths per year.
Environmental practices and the value added of horticultural firms
Authors: Céspedes‐Lorente José , Galdeano‐Gómez Emilio
Published: November 2004

This paper explores the relationship between environmental management and productivity in the fruit and vegetable sector. Our empirical analysis focuses on the effect of environmental practices on the value added in horticultural firms of Andalusia. These practices are included in the incentive programmes established by the Common Agricultural Policy on a voluntary basis. Taking the investment in environmental activities as knowledge capital, we propose a specific analysis that evaluates the effect of the factors of the production function on the value added. Our results show a positive overall impact of environmental investment on the product's market value. We conclude that there is a direct link between environmental management and productivity in the sector under study. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and ERP Environment.
Oligonucleotide Bearing Ethylenediamine‐N,N,N′‐Triacetates for Gap‐Selective DNA Hydrolysis by Ce4+/EDTA
Authors: Komiyama Makoto , Arishima Hiroyuki , Yokoyama Masahito , Kitamura Yoshihito , Yamamoto Yoji
Published: November 2004

With the use of two oligonucleotides bearing ethylenediamine‐N,N,N′‐triacetate groups as additives, gap sites were formed at predetermined sites in substrate DNA. Upon treating these systems with a Ce4+/EDTA complex at pH 7.0 and 37 °C, the phosphodiester linkages at the gap site were selectively hydrolyzed. The DNA scission was greatly promoted by the introduction of ethylenediaminetriacetate groups, and the scission efficiency increased as the number of these groups increased. Even a one‐base gap was successfully hydrolyzed when three ethylenediaminetriacetate groups were placed consecutively at both edges of the gap, although the scission was minimal in the absence of these groups. The site‐selective scission could be also achieved at higher temperatures without any significant loss of site‐selectivity.
Large Bubble Sizes and Rise Velocities in a Bubble Column Slurry Reactor
Authors: Vandu C.O. , Koop K. , Krishna R.
Published: November 2004

The results are reported of an experimental study of the gas holdup, ϵG, large bubble diameter, dLb, and large bubble rise velocity, VLb, in a 0.1 m wide, 0.02 m deep and 0.95 m high rectangular slurry bubble column operated at ambient temperature and pressure conditions. The superficial gas velocity U was varied in the range of 0–0.2 m/s, spanning both the homogeneous and heterogeneous flow regimes. Air was used as the gas phase. The liquid phase used was C9‐C11 paraffin oil containing varying volume fractions (ϵS = 0, 0.05, 0.10, 0.15, 0.20 and 0.25) of porous catalyst (alumina catalyst support, 10 % < 10 μm; 50 % < 16 μm; 90 % < 39 μm). With increasing slurry concentrations, ϵG is significantly reduced due to enhanced bubble coalescence and for high slurry concentrations the “small” bubbles are significantly reduced in number. By the use of video imaging techniques, it was shown that the large bubble diameter is practically independent of the gas velocity for ϵS > 0.05 and U > 0.1 m/s. The measured large bubble rise velocity VLb agrees with the predictions of a modified Davis‐Taylor relationship.
An introduction to decision tree modeling
Authors: Myles Anthony J. , Feudale Robert N. , Liu Yang , Woody Nathaniel A. , Brown Steven D.
Published: November 2004

In this tutorial, traditional decision tree construction and the current state of decision tree modeling are reviewed. Emphasis is placed on techniques that make decision trees well suited to handle the complexities of chemical and biochemical applications. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Aryl Cation and Carbene Intermediates in the Photodehalogenation of Chlorophenols
Authors: Manet Ilse , Monti Sandra , Fagnoni Maurizio , Protti Stefano , Albini Angelo
Published: November 2004

The photochemistry of 2,6‐dimethyl‐4‐chlorophenol (6) has been studied in methanol and trifluoroethanol (TFE) through product studies and transient absorption spectroscopy. Chloride loss from triplet 6 gave triplet hydroxyphenyl cation 14, which equilibrated with triplet oxocyclohexadienylydene 15 within a few tens of nanoseconds; the cation can, however, be selectively trapped by allyltrimethylsilane (kad = 108–109  m−1 s−1) to give a phenonium ion and the allylated phenol. In neat alcohols, 14 and 15 are reduced through different mechanisms, namely by hydrogen transfer through radical cation 17 and via phenoxyl radical 16, respectively. The mechanistic rationalization has been substantiated by the parallel study of an O‐silylated derivative. The work shows that the chemistry of the highly (but selectively) reactive phenyl cation 14 can not only be discriminated from that of the likewise highly reactive carbene 15, but also exploited for synthetically useful reactions, as in this case with alkenes. Photolysis of electron‐donating substituted halobenzenes may be the method of choice for the mild generation of some classes of phenyl cations.
On the Gas‐Phase Reactivity of Complexed OH+ with Halogenated Alkanes
Authors: Adlhart Christian , Sekiguchi Osamu , Uggerud Einar
Published: November 2004

OH+ is an extraordinarily strong oxidant. Complexed forms (LOH+), such as H2OOH+, H3NOH+, or iron–porphyrin‐OH+ are the anticipated oxidants in many chemical reactions. While these molecules are typically not stable in solution, their isolation can be achieved in the gas phase. We report a systematic survey of the influence on L on the reactivity of LOH+ towards alkanes and halogenated alkanes, showing the tremendous influence of L on the reactivity of LOH+. With the help of with quantum chemical calculations, detailed mechanistic insights on these very general reactions are gained. The gas‐phase pseudo‐first‐order reaction rates of H2OOH+, H3NOH+, and protonated 4‐picoline‐N‐oxide towards isobutane and different halogenated alkanes CnH2n+1Cl (n=1–4), HCF3, CF4, and CF2Cl2 have been determined by means of Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance meaurements. Reaction rates for H2OOH+ are generally fast (7.2×10−10–3.0×10−9 cm3 mol−1 s−1) and only in the cases HCF3 and CF4 no reactivity is observed. In contrast to this H3NOH+ only reacts with tC4H9Cl (kobs=9.2×10−10), while 4‐CH3‐C5H4N‐OH+ is completely unreactive. While H2OOH+ oxidizes alkanes by an initial hydride abstraction upon formation of a carbocation, it reacts with halogenated alkanes at the chlorine atom. Two mechanistic scenarios, namely oxidation at the halogen atom or proton transfer are found. Accurate proton affinities for HOOH, NH2OH, a series of alkanes CnH2n+2 (n=1–4), and halogenated alkanes CnH2n+1Cl (n=1–4), HCF3, CF4, and CF2Cl2, were calculated by using the G3 method and are in excellent agreement with experimental values, where available. The G3 enthalpies of reaction are also consistent with the observed products. The tendency for oxidation of alkanes by hydride abstraction is expressed in terms of G3 hydride affinities of the corresponding cationic products CnH2n+1+ (n=1–4) and CnH2nCl+ (n=1–4). The hypersurface for the reaction of H2OOH+ with CH3Cl and C2H5Cl was calculated at the B3 LYP, MP2, and G3m* level, underlining the three mechanistic scenarios in which the reaction is either induced by oxidation at the hydrogen or the halogen atom, or by proton transfer.
Homocoenzyme B12 and Bishomocoenzyme B12: Covalent Structural Mimics for Homolyzed, Enzyme‐Bound Coenzyme B12
Authors: Gschösser Sigrid , Hannak Renate B. , Konrat Robert , Gruber Karl , Mikl Christian , Kratky Christoph , Kräutler Bernhard
Published: November 2004

Efficient electrochemical syntheses of “homocoenzyme B12” (2, Coβ‐(5′‐deoxy‐5′‐adenosyl‐methyl)‐cob(III)alamin) and “bishomocoenzyme B12” (3, Coβ‐[2‐(5′‐deoxy‐5′‐adenosyl)‐ethyl]‐cob(III)alamin) are reported here. These syntheses have provided crystalline samples of 2 and 3 in 94 and 77 % yield, respectively. In addition, in‐depth investigations of the structures of 2 and 3 in solution were carried out and a high‐resolution crystal structure of 2 was obtained. The two homologues of coenzyme B12 (2 and 3) are suggested to function as covalent structural mimics of the hypothetical enzyme‐bound “activated” (that is, “stretched” or even homolytically cleaved) states of the B12 cofactor. From crude molecular models, the crucial distances from the corrin‐bound cobalt center to the C5′ atom of the (homo)adenosine moieties in 2 and 3 were estimated to be about 3.0 and 4.4 Å, respectively. These values are roughly the same as those found in the two “activated” forms of coenzyme B12 in the crystal structure of glutamate mutase. Indeed, in the crystal structure of 2, the cobalt center was observed to be at a distance of 2.99 Å from the C5′ atom of the homoadenosine moiety and the latter was found to be present in the unusual syn conformation. In solution, the organometallic moieties of 2 and 3 were shown to be rather flexible and to be considerably more dynamic than the equivalent group in coenzyme B12. The homoadenosine moiety of 2 was indicated to occur in both the syn and the anti conformations.
Harnstofffällung als konkurrenzfähiges Trennverfahren für schwierige Stofftrennungen in der Oleochemie
Authors: Josten H. , Gutsche B. , Johannisbauer W. , Fieg G.
Published: November 2004

No abstracts.
Frühentdeckung von Schadenfeuern in industriellen Anlagen mit Hilfe videobasierter Branddetektion
Authors: Opitz D.
Published: November 2004

No abstracts.
Einstellen einer gezielten Porosität in keramischen Grünkörpern über das kontrollierte Kristallisieren der wässrigen Phase
Authors: Donchev D. , Ulrich J. , Andresen L. , Koch D. , Grathwohl G.
Published: November 2004

No abstracts.
Prognostic factors in patients with thick cutaneous melanoma (> 4 mm)
Authors: Zettersten Elizabeth , Sagebiel Richard W. , Miller James R. , Tallapureddy Sreedhar , Leong Stanley P. L. , Kashani‐Sabet Mohammed
Published: November 2004

BACKGROUND

The current study was conducted to examine the role of multiple clinical and histologic factors in the prognostic assessment of patients with thick primary melanoma (> 4 mm, classified as T4).

METHODS

A retrospective analysis was performed in 329 patients with T4 cutaneous melanomas who were seen at the University of California at San Francisco Melanoma Center between 1978 and 2000. Fourteen histopathologic features were recorded prospectively by a single dermatopathologist. In addition, 9 clinical factors were analyzed.

RESULTS

Several histologic factors were found to have a significant impact on the survival of patients with T4 melanoma. On univariate analysis, tumor thickness, ulceration, mitotic rate, microsatellites, vascular involvement, and histogenetic type of the primary tumor all were found to have a significant impact on the overall survival rate. Regional lymph node involvement reduced the overall survival of T4 patients dramatically. The 5‐year overall survival of patients with lymph node‐negative T4 disease was 61%, compared with 30% for those with lymph node‐positive disease. When lymph node status was taken into account, tumor thickness, vascular involvement, and ulceration all remained independent predictors of overall survival on multivariate Cox regression analysis. Neither age, gender, nor anatomic location appeared to affect the recurrence‐free or overall survival rates.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with thick primary cutaneous melanomas (> 4 mm) comprise a heterogeneous group. The presence or absence of lymph node involvement, vascular involvement, and ulceration appears to result in significantly divergent overall survival rates in this patient cohort. Consideration of these factors has important implications in the management of patients with T4 melanoma. Cancer 2002;94:1049–56. © 2002 American Cancer Society.

DOI 10.1002/cncr.10326
Evaluation of screening strategy for detecting hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal carcinoma
Authors: Furukawa Taiji , Konishi Fumio , Shitoh Kazuhisa , Kojima Masayuki , Nagai Hideo , Tsukamoto Toshihiko
Published: November 2004

BACKGROUND

The Amsterdam criteria are used worldwide for the clinical diagnosis of hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal carcinoma (HNPCC). In Japan, clinical criteria (JCC) have been proposed to identify as many HNPCC cases as possible, but the suitability of the JCC remains uncertain. In this article, the authors evaluate retrospectively whether the JCC are adequate to diagnose HNPCC compared with the Bethesda guidelines (BG) and also investigated useful screening methods for HNPCC.

METHODS

The authors studied 452 colorectal carcinoma cases, of which 69 cases fulfilled the JCC (A, 12; B, 57) and 106 fulfilled the BG. Microsatellite instability (MSI) was examined for 452 cases. TGFβRII, immunohistochemical staining, and germline mutations of hMLH1 and hMSH2 were analyzed in high‐frequency MSI cases.

RESULTS

High‐frequency MSI was found in 21.7% (98 of 452). Germline mutations were detected in eight cases (hMLH1, three, hMSH2; five). Six cases fulfilled the JCC (A, four; B, two), and six fulfilled the BG. The germline mutation rate was significantly higher in the JCCA than in non‐JCCA cases (33.3% vs. 0.91%; P < 0.001) and in cases with an age at onset younger than 50 years than older than 50 years (9.3% vs. 0.27%, P < 0.001). All germline mutation carriers had the TGFβRII mutation. Immunohistochemically, a decreased nuclear staining was found in 57.3% (47 of 82) for hMLH1 and in 18.3% (15 of 82) for hMSH2. The frequency of predicted germline mutations was higher in cases with decreased hMSH2 than hMLH1 (33.3% vs. 6.4%; P = 0.016).

CONCLUSIONS

The JCCA are suitable for selecting cases to analyze for gene mutations, but the JCCB are not useful for the clinical setting. The authors suggest that an age at onset younger than 50 years is also important for screening. Analyzing TGFβRII mutations and immunohistochemical staining of hMLH1 or hMSH2 for cases with MSI phenotype are useful for selecting cases who should be tested for germline mutations. Cancer 2002;94:911–20. © 2002 American Cancer Society.

DOI 10.1002/cncr.10332
HER‐2 profiling and targeting in prostate carcinoma
Authors: Morris Michael J. , Reuter Victor E. , Kelly W. Kevin , Slovin Susan F. , Kenneson Kate , Verbel David , Osman Iman , Scher Howard I.
Published: November 2004

BACKGROUND

The clinical effects of targeting HER‐2 in prostate carcinoma are not known. This study explored the feasibility of molecular profiling to determine the correlation between HER‐2 expression, hormonal sensitivity, and the antitumor effects of trastuzumab and paclitaxel in patients with prostate carcinoma.

METHODS

Patients with progressive androgen dependent (AD) and androgen independent (AI) prostate carcinoma were eligible to participate in the study. HER‐2 expression was assessed on pretreatment tissue specimens, and patients were then assigned to one of four treatment groups: AD HER‐2 positive, AD HER‐2 negative, AI HER‐2 positive, and AI HER‐2 negative. They were treated with weekly trastuzumab at a dose of 2 mg/kg (after a 4 mg/kg loading dose) until they experienced disease progression, when weekly paclitaxel at 100 mg/m2 was added.

RESULTS

The authors screened 130 patients for HER‐2 expression. In total, 23 patients were treated. Six eligible patients had HER‐2 positive disease; therefore, only the AI HER‐2 negative arm accrued to completion. All patients (100%) experienced disease progression on trastuzumab alone at or before the first 12 weeks of treatment. Fifteen patients received combined therapy: Seven patients (47%) experienced disease progression, 5 patients (33%) had stable disease, and 3 patients (20%) had a decline ≥ 50% in prostate specific antigen PSA level or in soft tissue disease. HER‐2 overexpression was found in significant proportions only in AI metastatic tissue samples (42% HER‐2 positive; 95% confidence interval, 14–60%). In three of nine matched pairs, the AD prostate biopsy was HER‐2 negative, and the AI metastatic sample was HER‐2 positive.

CONCLUSIONS

Trastuzumab is not effective as a single agent for the treatment of patients with AI HER‐2 negative tumors. HER‐2 expression varies by clinical state in patients with prostate carcinoma: Accurate HER‐2 profiling requires sampling metastatic tissue in patients with metastatic disease. Further development of trastuzumab for the treatment of patients with metastatic prostate carcinoma is not feasible until more reliable and practical methods of sampling metastatic disease are developed to identify patients with HER‐2 positive tumors. Cancer 2002;94:980–6. © 2002 American Cancer Society.

DOI 10.1002/cncr.10339
Clinical pretreatment risk factors and Ga‐67 scintigraphy early during treatment for prediction of outcome of patients with aggressive non‐Hodgkin lymphoma
Authors: Israel Ora , Mor Maya , Epelbaum Ron , Frenkel Alex , Haim Nissim , Dann Eldad J. , Gaitini Diana , Bar‐Shalom Rachel , Kolodny Gerald M. , Front Dov
Published: November 2004

BACKGROUND

Clinical pretreatment risk factors indicate the severity of disease in patients with aggressive non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL). Ga‐67 scintigraphy during treatment is an early indicator of treatment‐related features of lymphoma cells. The ability of risk factors and Ga‐67 to predict disease outcome was compared in 139 patients with aggressive NHL.

METHODS

Pretreatment clinical risk factors and Ga‐67 scintigraphy performed after one cycle and at mid‐treatment were evaluated for their correlation with response rate and as predictors of 5‐year failure‐free survival (FFS). Univariate analysis was performed to determine the ability of pretreatment risk factors and Ga‐67 early during treatment to predict FFS. Subsequently, multivariate analysis was performed on the variables with significant univariate results using the Cox proportional hazards method. The predictive value of risk factors and Ga‐67 scintigraphy was calculated to determine their suitability in selecting patients with poor outcome.

RESULTS

Response rate correlated with stage of disease (P < 0.01) and the international prognostic index (IPI) score (P < 0.05). Five‐year FFS was predicted by stage of disease (P < 0.004), performance status (P < 0.02), and the IPI score (P < 0.01). Response rate correlated with results of Ga‐67 scintigraphy after one cycle of chemotherapy (P < 0.001) and at mid‐treatment (P < 0.001). Five‐year FFS was predicted by Ga‐67 after one cycle of chemotherapy (P < 0.0004) and at mid‐treatment (P < 0.0001). Positive Ga‐67 after the first cycle of treatment predicted 64% of patients who had failure of treatment. A positive study at mid‐treatment predicted 77% of patients who had treatment failure. Cox analysis showed Ga‐67 after one course (P < 0.0012) and at mid‐treatment (P < 0.0002) as being the most significant variables in predicting FFS.

CONCLUSIONS

Ga‐67 scintigraphy demonstrates early the effect of treatment in patients with aggressive NHL. It is a better predictor than pretreatment risk factors of both response rate and FFS. Positive Ga‐67 early during treatment may be used as an independent test in selecting patients who will not respond favorably to current protocol treatment for early therapeutic modifications. Cancer 2002;94:873–8. © 2002 American Cancer Society.

DOI 10.1002/cncr.10344
Acupuncture for xerostomia
Authors: Johnstone Peter A. S. , Niemtzow Richard C. , Riffenburgh Robert H.
Published: November 2004

BACKGROUND

In the authors' clinic, patients with xerostomia after radiation therapy for malignancy have been offered acupuncture as potential palliation of their symptoms since November 1999. Preliminary data revealed that many patients achieve relief, even for symptoms refractory to pilocarpine therapy.

METHODS

Acupuncture technique has been refined since the authors' previous publication. Originally described as a two‐step process, a single treatment with eight needles is now used. Three points are treated in each ear, and one in the radial aspect of each index finger. Patients are also provided a sugar‐free lozenge in the mouth to further stimulate salivation. Response is measured by the xerostomia inventory (XI).

RESULTS

Fifty patients have undergone 318 treatments (median, 5; range, 2–15 treatments). Median follow‐up since the first treatment is 224 days (range, 9–455 days). Median palliation as described by the XI was 9 points (range, 0–25 points). Response (defined as improvement of 10% or better over baseline XI values) occurred in 35 patients (70%). Twenty‐four patients (48%) have received benefit of 10 points or greater on the XI. Duration of effect for 13 patients (26%) has exceeded 3 months.

CONCLUSIONS

Acupuncture palliates xerostomia for many patients. A regimen of three to four weekly treatments followed by monthly sessions is now recommended, although some patients achieve lasting response without further therapy. Cancer 2002;94:1151–6. © 2002 American Cancer Society.

DOI 10.1002/cncr.10348
Docetaxel plus epidoxorubicin as neoadjuvant treatment in patients with large operable or locally advanced carcinoma of the breast
Authors: de Matteis Andrea , Nuzzo Francesco , D'Aiuto Giuseppe , Labonia Vincenzo , Landi Gabriella , Rossi Emanuela , Mastro Angelo Antonio , Botti Gerardo , De Maio Ermelinda , Perrone Francesco
Published: November 2004

BACKGROUND

The objective of this study was to test the activity and toxicity of epirubicin plus docetaxel as primary chemotherapy for women with large, operable (T2; > 3 cm) or locally advanced (Stage III) breast carcinoma, including patients with inflammatory breast carcinoma.

METHODS

In this single‐center, open‐label, single‐stage, Phase II trial, epirubicin (75 mg/m2; intravenous bolus) followed by docetaxel (80 mg/m2; 1‐hour intravenous infusion) was administered on Day 1 of each cycle for four cycles.

RESULTS

Nine of 30 patients (30%) had inflammatory breast carcinoma. Twenty‐three patients (76.7%; 95% confidence interval, 57.7–90.1) had a clinical objective response that was complete in 6 patients (20%). Twenty‐seven patients (90%) underwent surgery that was conservative in 5 patients (16.7%). Pathologic response evaluation revealed four complete responses (13.3%; 95% confidence interval, 3.8–30.7). Grade 4 neutropenia was recorded in 80.0% of patients, and febrile neutropenia was recorded in one‐third of patients. Anemia and thrombocytopenia were never severe. Other side effects were diarrhea (26.6%), oral mucositis (43.3%), and emesis (26.6%).

CONCLUSIONS

Neoadjuvant chemotherapy with epirubicin plus docetaxel was a feasible treatment and was active in an unfavorable series of patients with locally advanced breast carcinoma, including patients with inflammatory breast carcinoma. Cancer 2002;94:895–901. © 2002 American Cancer Society.

DOI 10.1002/cncr.20335