First stretching overtone of BiH3: An extreme local-mode case for XH3-type molecule?

The first stretching overtone region of short-lived, formerly inaccessible BiH3 near 3405 cm(-1) has been measured by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy with a resolution of 0.0066 cm(-1). Only the 2nu1(A1)/nu1+nu3(E) band system has been observed. Rotational analysis, with transitions reaching J'max=14, has revealed almost perfect local-mode behavior for the upper states denoted as (200A1/E) in the local-mode notation. Ratios of vibration-rotation interaction parameters q(eff)/alpha(eff)(BB) and r(eff)/alpha(eff)(BC), and the appropriate rotational constant differences, are in good agreement with theoretical local-mode limit values. A simple stretching vibrational model reproduces the observed vibrational term values well, and the potential parameters obtained are close to true values.

[Chondrosarcoma of the sphenoethmoid complex: Case report]

BACKGROUND

Chondrosarcomas are rare malignant mesenchymal tumors of unknown etiology. Only 5 to 10 % appear in the head and neck region.

PATIENT AND RESULTS

We report the case of a 63 year old woman with a chondrosarcoma of the sphenoethmoidal complex extending into the anterior cranial fossa. The tumor was subtotally resected via an osteoplastic lateral rhinotomy. Postoperatively, a fractionated radiation therapy with carbon ions (Schwerionen) was applied. There was no evidence of recurrence one year after therapy.

CONCLUSION

Recent prognostic improvements of skull base chondrosarcomas by combination of skull base surgery and innovative radiation therapy are discussed and the literature is presented.

Overexpression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and its cellular receptor KDR (VEGFR-2) in the bone marrow of patients with acute myeloid leukemia

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and its cellular receptor VEGFR-2 have been implicated as the main endothelial pathway required for tumor neovascularization. However, the importance of the VEGF/VEGFR-2 system for angiogenesis in hematologic malignancies such as AML remains to be elucidated. In 32 patients with newly diagnosed untreated AML, we observed by immunohistochemical analysis of bone marrow biopsies significantly higher levels of VEGF and VEGFR-2 expression than in 10 control patients (P <0.001). In contrast, VEGFR-1 staining levels in AML patients were in the same range as in the controls. Expression of VEGF and VEGFR-2 was significantly higher in patients with a high degree of microvessel density compared to those with a low degree (VEGF: P =0.024; VEGFR-2: P =0.040) and correlated well with bone marrow microvessel density (r(s)=0.566 and 0.609, respectively; P <0.001). Furthermore, in patients who achieved a complete remission following induction chemotherapy VEGFR-2 staining levels decreased into the normal range. In conclusion, our results provide evidence for increased expression of VEGF/VEGFR-2 of leukemic blasts and correlation with angiogenesis in the bone marrow of AML patients. Thus, VEGF/VEGFR-2 might constitute promising targets for antiangiogenic and antileukemic treatment strategies in AML.

The multicentric epitheloid hemangioendothelioma of bone: a case example and review of the literature

Epitheloid hemangioendothelioma of bone is a rare primary bone malignancy. Diagnosis can be difficult for physicians who are not experienced with bone neoplasms. We also had difficulties in diagnosis and treatment in one of our patients with a multicentric epitheloid hemangioendothelioma involving the pelvis, left femur, and left tibia. We recommend a complete skeletal survey with magnetic resonance imaging because it can reveal previously undetected lesions on conventional radiographs. We performed an extraarticular resection of the hip joint including the spina iliaca anterior inferior, resection of the femur, and amputation of the lower leg. The femur was replaced by a modular endoprosthesis. The patient is provided with an above-knee prosthesis and is able to walk even longer distances with a cane 2 years after surgery. In our opinion it is necessary to perform a wide resection of this tumour in order to treat a patient with curative intention. Palliative radiotherapy should only be used for a non-resectable tumour or in metastatic disease. Chemotherapy is not a treatment option.

Soft tissue reconstruction of megaprostheses using a trevira tube

In soft tissue reconstruction of megaprostheses, the reattachment of soft tissue and joint capsules is essential. Sixty-nine megaprostheses were implanted and a trevira tube was applied to support reconstruction of the capsule and soft tissue. In cases of proximal femur replacement (33 patients), total femur replacement (five patients), and proximal humerus replacement (16 patients), the trevira tube allowed for reconstruction of the capsule and refixation of the muscles and helped to minimize dislocation. In cases of proximal tibia replacement (seven patients), arthrodesis of the knee (three patients), total knee replacement (two patients), and distal femur replacement (three patients), the trevira tube allowed for attachment of muscle flaps and extensor apparatus. Dislocation was observed in two of 54 patients who had proximal femur replacements. No dislocation was observed in patients with a total femur endoprosthesis or a proximal humerus endoprosthesis. The trevira tube also was used to attach the gastrocnemius muscle in patients with a proximal tibia endoprosthesis and to reattach the rotator cuff in patients with a proximal humerus prosthesis. There was no significant increase in the rate of infection. The histopathologic findings in six patients showed tissue ingrowth into the tube.

Synthesis and properties of the tetrakis(trifluoromethyl)borate anion, [b(CF3)4]-: structure determination of Cs[B(CF3)4] by single-crystal X-ray diffraction

Salts of the tetrakis(trifluoromethyl)borate anion, M[B(CF3)4], M=Li, K, Cs, Ag, have been prepared by two different routes for the first time. The colorless compounds are thermally stable up to 425 C (Cs salt) and soluble in anhydrous HF, water, and most organic solvents. Single crystals of Cs[B(CF3)4] were grown from diethyl ether by diffusion of CH2Cl2 vapor into the solution. The molecular structure was obtained by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. Crystal data: rhombohedral space group R3m (no. 160); a =7.883(1), c=13.847(4) A: V=748.2 A3; Z=3; T=150K; R1=0.0118, wR2=0.0290. The internal bond parameters of the [B(CF3)4] ion were compared to those of the C(CF3)4 molecule. Due to a disorder of the anions in the cesium salt, it is not possible to distinguish between T and Td symmetry by X-ray diffraction experiments alone. However, a comprehensive IR and Raman study demonstrated that in the potassium and cesium salt as well as in aqueous solution, the anion exhibits T symmetry with all CF3 groups rotated off the staggered position required for Td symmetry. The vibrational study is supported by DFT calculations, which provide, in addition to the equilibrium structure and vibrational wavenumbers, estimates of IR and Raman band intensities. The anion is resistant against strong oxidizing (e.g., F2) as well as reducing agents (e.g., Na) and is not affected by nucleophiles like C2H5O or electrophiles such as H3O+. It is very weakly coordinating, as demonstrated by the low-equilibrium CO pressure over the [Ag(CO)x][B(CF3)4] (x=1, 2) co-adducts and the formation of [Ag(CO)x][B(CF3)4] (x=3,4) at higher CO pressure. The 11B, 13C, and 19F NMR data as well as the structural parameters of the anion are compared with those for other borates containing F, CN, and CF3 ligands.

High-Resolution Infrared and Millimeter-Wave Study of D(3)SiF: The Ground and v(3)=1 States of the (29)Si and (30)Si Species, and the v(3)=v(6)=1 and v(3)=2 States of D(3) (28)SiF

The nu(3) band of D(3)SiF near 890 cm(-1) recorded with a resolution of 2.4x10(-3) cm(-1) has been explored for the (29)Si and (30)Si isotopic species. Moreover, the nu(3)+nu(6)-nu(6) and 2nu(3)-nu(3) bands for the main (28)Si isotopomer have been assigned. For this purpose the nu(3)+nu(6) and 2nu(3) bands at 1435.697 and 1769.531 cm(-1) have been studied. Ground state parameters of the (29)Si and (30)Si species have been determined by merging newly measured MMW frequencies and ground state combination differences. In addition, v(3)=1 excited state parameters for these species have been obtained. While for the (28)Si species the v(3)=v(6)=1 state is locally perturbed by levels of the v(2)+v(5)=2 polyad, the v(3)=2 state appears to be unperturbed, its parameters being predictable from those of the v(3)=1 state. Anharmonicity constants x(33)=-4.1334 cm(-1) and x(36)=-3.6547 cm(-1) have been determined. Copyright 2001 Academic Press.

High-Resolution Infrared, Microwave, and Submillimeter-Wave Study of FClO(2) in the nu(2), nu(3), nu(4), and nu(6) Excited States

A high-resolution analysis of the {nu(2), nu(3)} and {nu(4), nu(6)} bands of the two isotopomers of chloryl fluoride F(35)ClO(2) and F(37)ClO(2) has been carried out for the first time using simultaneously infrared spectra recorded around 16&mgr;m and 26&mgr;m with a resolution of ca. 0.003 cm(-1) and microwave and submillimeter-wave transitions occurring within the vibrational states 2(1), 3(1), 4(1), and 6(1). Taking into account the Coriolis resonances which link the rotational levels of the {2(1), 3(1)} and the {4(1), 6(1)} interacting states, it was possible to reproduce very satisfactorily the observed transitions and to determine accurate vibrational energies and rotational constants for the upper states 2(1), 3(1), 4(1), and 6(1) of both the (35)Cl and (37)Cl isotopic species. Copyright 2001 Academic Press.

High-Resolution Spectroscopy and Analysis of the nu(3) and nu(4) Fundamentals of Monoisotopic (70)GeF(4)

The first high-resolution study on germanium tetrafluoride is reported. We used a monoisotopic sample of (70)GeF(4). The FTIR spectra of the two infrared active fundamentals, namely the nu(4) (bending) and nu(3) (stretching) modes, were recorded at a temperature of ca. 210 K and a resolution (1/maximum optical path difference) of 0.0031 and 0.0023 cm(-1), respectively. These spectra were analyzed using the STDS software developed in Dijon. In both cases, we obtained a fit with a root mean square better than 1x10(-3) cm(-1). Both bands show very regular structures with no detectable perturbation. Copyright 2001 Academic Press.

High-Resolution Spectroscopy and Analysis of the nu(4) Bending Region of SF(6) near 615 cm(-1)

The high-resolution Fourier transform spectrum of the nu(4) bending region of SF(6) near 615 cm(-1) has been recorded at 213 K. We were able to perform a simultaneous analysis of the nu(4) and nu(4) + nu(6) - nu(6) bands of the main isotopomer, namely (32)SF(6). This is the first detailed analysis of a hot band for this molecule. The nu(4) band of (34)SF(6) was also analyzed and the Q branch of the nu(4) band of (33)SF(6) was identified. In both cases we used the HTDS software developed in Dijon. Copyright 2001 Academic Press.

Cytogenetic analysis of multifocal bladder cancer supports a monoclonal origin and intraepithelial spread of tumor cells

Bladder cancer is often characterized by a multifocal growth pattern. This observation has given rise to the hypothesis of "field cancerization," predicting a polyclonal origin of multiple tumors rising from an area of independently transformed mucosa cells. On the other hand, genetic studies suggested a monoclonal origin. To address these contradictory hypotheses, we performed comparative genomic hybridization (CGH) on 32 tumors originating from six bladder cystectomy specimens. All tumors derived from the same patient showed a set of 7-13 identical chromosomal aberrations and additional individual alterations. Most striking were the findings of 17p losses in all (32 of 32) tumors of the six cystectomy specimens and 20p gains in all tumors of four bladders, as well as an unexpected high number of chromosomal changes (20.4 alterations per tumor on average). To clarify a possible role of the TP53 tumor suppressor gene on 17p13, we applied immunohistochemistry and sequence analysis on the tumors and additional 52 mucosa samples. Identical TP53 mutations and protein overexpression was found in individual tumors only as well as in mucosa samples from continuous areas. Our results not only provide further evidence for a monoclonal origin of multifocal bladder cancer but also point at intraepithelial migration of tumor cells carrying specific chromosomal aberrations.

High-Resolution Infrared and Millimeter-Wave Study of the Fermi-Coupled v(2) = 1 and v(3) = 2 States of DSiF(3)

The nu(2) (nu(eff.) 854.841 cm(-1)) and 2nu(3) infrared bands (nu(eff.) 840.083 cm(-1)) of DSiF(3) have been studied with a resolution of 2.5 x 10(-3) cm(-1). Moreover, millimeter-wave transitions in the v(2) = 1 and v(3) = 2 states up to J" = 33 have been measured. The assignments and fit of the poorly resolved, compressed cluster-type 2nu(3) IR transitions have been confirmed by a simultaneous study of the 2nu(3)-nu(3) band. The constant W = 5.116 cm(-1) of the Fermi interaction between the v(2) = 1 and v(3) = 2 levels has been determined from frequency effects which are in agreement with relative intensities of the nu(2) and 2nu(3) bands. The deperturbed (B(0) - B(v)) and (C(0) - C(v)) values of the states involved agree with their ab initio predictions within 7% in the worst case. Copyright 2001 Academic Press.

High-Resolution Study of the nnu(2), n = 1, 2, 3, Vib-Rotational Bands of D(2)Se

High-resolution Fourier transform spectra of the D(2)(M)Se with M = 76, 77, 78, 80, and 82 in the regions of the first and second bending overtones 2nu(2) and 3nu(2) near 1480 and 2210 cm(-1), respectively, were recorded for the first time and assigned. On the basis of these experimental data, rotation-vibration energies were determined and fitted together with those of the (010) state reported earlier (W. Jerembeck, H. Bürger, J.-M. Flaud, and Ph. Arcas, J. Mol. Spectrosc. 197, 215-221 (1999)) by using the "Global Fit" procedure. The obtained set of 43 fitted parameters for these three vibrational states of the D(2)(80)Se species (altogether 86 fitted parameters for 12 states of five M species) reproduces the rotation-vibration energies of all studied states with accuracies close to experimental uncertainties. Copyright 2000 Academic Press.

Absolute nu(2) Line Intensities of HOCl by Simultaneous Measurements in the Infrared with a Tunable Diode Laser and Far-Infrared Region Using a Fourier Transform Spectrometer

We have measured absolute line intensities in the nu(2) fundamental band at 1238 cm(-1) of both isotopomers of hypochlorous acid, HOCl. To obtain the partial pressure of the species in the sample mixture, unavailable through direct measurement since HOCl exists only in equilibrium with H(2)O and Cl(2)O and may decay by secondary reactions, we relied on known absolute line intensities in the pure rotational far-infrared (FIR) spectrum determined from Stark effect measurements. We have thus recorded simultaneously the FIR pure rotation spectrum of HOCl using a Bruker IFS120HR interferometer and the spectrum of a few vibration-rotation lines in the infrared (IR) nu(2) band using a tunable diode laser spectrometer. The absolute intensities of these IR lines thus determined allowed us to "calibrate" the intensities of vibration-rotation lines in the whole nu(2) band, measured previously using Fourier transform spectroscopy. The treatment of the data took into account the blackbody emission contribution in the FIR and the evolution of the HOCl amount during the recording of the spectra. The latter was found to be almost constant over hours after conditioning of the cell. The square of the nu(2) band vibrational transition dipole moment was determined to be 0.013947(23) D(2) and 0.013870(51) D(2) for HO(35)Cl and HO(37)Cl, respectively, that is, 29 to 73% lower than previous measurements. A linear Herman-Wallis factor was also determined for both isotopomers. Finally, the line intensities were least-squares fitted using a model that takes into account a weak resonance between the (010) and (002) levels. Copyright 2000 Academic Press.

Comparative methodological analysis of erbB-2/HER-2 gene dosage, chromosomal copy number and protein overexpression in breast carcinoma tissues for diagnostic use

AIMS

This study was performed to test the validity of different methods for determining the status of the erbB-2/HER-2 oncogene in breast cancer tissues for diagnostic use.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Forty formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded breast carcinomas were investigated by fluorescence in situ and comparative genomic hybridization (FISH, CGH) as well as by immunohistochemistry (IHC) using Dako-HercepTest and CB11 antibody (Ventana). Additionally, competitive-differential polymerase chain reaction (cdPCR) was performed on frozen samples to estimate gene dosage alterations of erbB-2/HER-2. Amplification was detected in 12-23% and protein overexpression in 16-68% of the cases, depending on the methodology and/or the reagent used. Perfect concordance (100%) was found between the results of cdPCR and CB11-IHC, and a 97% concordance between FISH and CB11-IHC. The concordance between Dako-HercepTest and CB11-IHC was 78%: seven of eight 2+ carcinomas with the Dako-HercepTest were classified as nonamplified using FISH.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results indicate that high-level expression as well as normal erbB-2/HER-2 status of breast carcinomas can be detected reliably both by IHC and gene dosage assessment in paraffin material for diagnostic use. However, borderline results, especially those with 2 + immunopositivity, should be interpreted with caution and increased emphasis should be given to other clinical and prognostic information available.