bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Paleomagnetic Constraints on Sedimentation Rates in the Eastern Arctic Ocean
Authors: Schneider David A. , Backman Jan , Curry William B. , Possnert Göran
Published: October 2002

Deep-sea sediments recovered from six sites visited during the International Arctic Ocean Expedition of 1991 were examined to determine sedimentation rates in the eastern Arctic Ocean basin. The dearth of age-diagnostic biogenic material in these sediments precludes the application of biostratigraphic methods, but ages can be deduced using paleomagnetism, in conjunction with measurements of radiocarbon and carbonate concentration. Although no one of these techniques gives an unambiguous determination of age, the interpretation most consistent with these diverse data implies that sedimentation rates in the eastern Arctic are, in general, a few centimeters per thousand years. Such estimates of sedimentation rate are an order of magnitude greater than those previously determined from many sediment cores taken from the Canada Basin. However, one site examined on the Morris Jesup Rise shows a relatively low rate of sediment accumulation (less than 0.6 cm/103 yr) suggesting that, although higher than in the Canada Basin, sedimentation rates in the eastern Arctic can be highly variable.
Phytolith and Carbon Isotope Evidence for Late Quaternary Vegetation and Climate Change in the Southern Black Hills, South Dakota
Authors: Fredlund Glen G. , Tieszen Larry L.
Published: October 2002

Analyses of phytoliths and carbon isotopes document change in late Quaternary grasslands in the Red Valley of the southern Black Hills. Late Pleistocene grassland composition was equivalent to the C3grass parklands of modern central Alberta. The rise of mixed grassland occurred rapidly between 11,000 and 9000 yr B.P. Early Holocene mixed grasslands included both short and tall C4grasses. A mid-Holocene erosional unconformity (ca. 8000 to 4500 yr B.P.) precludes phytolith or isotope analysis, but suggests lack of vegetation and landscape denudation caused by a drier climatic. Basin-wide stability and soil development followed the erosional episode (ca. 4500 to 3600 yr B.P.). Mesic-adapted C4panicoid grasses increased during this period of soil development. Low-magnitude fluctuation in the C4-dominated mixed grassland occurred throughout the late Holocene (3600 yr B.P. to present). Rise in δ13C values during the last 1000 yr without corresponding change in phytoliths may indicate a decrease in woodlands caused by increased fire frequency.
Holocene Climate in the Northern Great Plains Inferred from Sediment Stratigraphy, Stable Isotopes, Carbonate Geochemistry, Diatoms, and Pollen at Moon Lake, North Dakota
Authors: Valero-Garcés Blas L. , Laird Kathleen R. , Fritz Sherilyn C. , Kelts Kerry , Ito Emi , Grimm Eric C.
Published: October 2002

Seismic stratigraphy, sedimentary facies, pollen stratigraphy, diatom-inferred salinity, stable isotope (δ18O and δ13C), and chemical composition (Sr/Ca and Mg/Ca) of authigenic carbonates from Moon Lake cores provide a congruent Holocene record of effective moisture for the eastern Northern Great Plains. Between 11,700 and 950014C yr B.P., the climate was cool and moist. A gradual decrease in effective moisture occurred between 9500 and 710014C yr B.P. A change at about 710014C yr B.P. inaugurated the most arid period during the Holocene. Between 7100 and 400014C yr B.P., three arid phases occurred at 6600–620014C yr B.P., 5400–520014C yr B.P., and 4800–460014C yr B.P. Effective moisture generally increased after 400014C yr B.P., but periods of low effective moisture occurred between 2900–280014C yr B.P. and 1200–80014C yr B.P. The data also suggest high climatic variability during the last few centuries. Despite the overall congruence, the biological (diatom), sedimentological, isotopic, and chemical proxies were occassionally out of phase. At these times the evaporative process was not the only control of lake-water chemical and isotopic composition.
Climatic Oscillations 10,000–155,000 yr B.P. at Owens Lake, California Reflected in Glacial Rock Flour Abundance and Lake Salinity in Core OL-92
Authors: Bischoff James L. , Menking Kirsten M. , Fitts Jeffrey P. , Fitzpatrick John A.
Published: October 2002

Chemical analyses of the acid-soluble and clay-size fractions of sediment samples (1500-yr resolution) reveal oscillations of lake salinity and of glacial advances in core OL-92 back to 155,000 yr B.P. Relatively saline conditions are indicated by the abundance of carbonate and smectite (both pedogenic and authigenic), reflected by Ca, Sr, and Mg in the acid-soluble suite, and by Cs2O, excess MgO, and LOI (loss on ignition) in the clay-size fraction. Rock flour produced during glacial advances is represented by the abundance of detrital plagioclase and biotite in the clay-size fraction, the ratio of which remains essentially constant over the entire time span. These phases are quantitatively represented by Na2O, TiO2, Ba, and Mn in the clay fraction. The rock-flour record indicates two major ice-advances during the penultimate glacial cycle corresponding to marine isotope stage (MIS) 6, no major advances during the last interglaciation (entire MIS 5), and three major advances during the last glacial cycle (MIS 2, 3, and 4). The ages of the latter three correspond rather well to36Cl dates reported for Sierra Nevada moraines. The onset of the last interglaciation is shown by abrupt increases in authigenic CaCO3and an abrupt decrease in rock flour, at about 118,000 yr B.P. according to our time scale. In contrast, the boundary appears to be gradual in the δ18O record in which the change from light to heavy values begins at about 140,000 yrs B.P. The exact position of the termination, therefore, may be proxy-dependent. Conditions of high carbonate and low rock flour prevailed during the entire period from 118,000 yr B.P. until the glacial advance at 53,000 yr B.P. signaled the end of this long interglaciation.
Late Pleistocene Climatic Variations at Achenheim, France, Based on a Magnetic Susceptibility and TL Chronology of Loess
Authors: Rousseau Denis-Didier , Zöller Ludwig , Valet Jean-Pierre
Published: October 2002

New field investigations of the Achenheim sequence (Alsace, France) allow for the characterization of variations in the low-field magnetic susceptibility over most of the last climatic cycle, i.e., the past 130,000 yr. New stratigraphic data and thermoluminescence measurements permit reassessment of the previous chronological interpretation of the Upper Pleistocene at Achenheim. A high-resolution analysis of magnetic susceptibility discloses the occurrence of a fine-grained “marker” horizon which was also found recently in another section. This horizon is interpreted as a small-scale dust layer deposited prior to the main interval of loess deposition. The horizon, deposited at the marine isotope stage (MIS) 5/4 boundary, has been found in other loess sequences and is especially prevalent in central Europe. It is characterized by low susceptibility values and a grayish color. New thermoluminescence dates indicate that the loess deposition took place after the MIS 5/4 boundary, i.e., after 70,000 yr. These results are consistent with the Greenland GRIP ice-core dust record which also demonstrates a dusty atmosphere after 72,000 yr ago. On a more regional scale, the Achenheim loess sequence demonstrates a reliable correlation between the western side of the Eurasian loess belt and the dust record of the Greenland ice cores.
Late Pleistocene and Holocene Vegetation and Climate on the Taymyr Lowland, Northern Siberia
Authors: Andreev Andrei A. , Siegert Christine , Klimanov Vladimir A. , Derevyagin Aleksandr Yu. , Shilova Galina N. , Melles Martin
Published: October 2002

Pollen records from perennially frozen sequences provide vegetation and climate reconstruction for the last 48,000 14C years in the central part of Taymyr Peninsula. Open larch forest with Alnus fruticosa and Betula nana grew during the Kargin (Middle Weichselian) Interstade, ca. 48,000–25,000 14C yr B.P. The climate was generally warmer and wetter than today. Open steppe-like communities with Artemisia, Poaceae, Asteraceae, and herb tundralike communities with dwarf Betula and Salix dominated during the Sartan (Late Weichselian) Stade, ca. 24,000–10,300 14C yr B.P. The statistical information method used for climate reconstruction shows that the coldest climate was ca. 20,000–17,000 14C yr B.P. A warming (Allerød Interstade?) with mean July temperature ca. 1.5°C warmer than today occurred ca. 12,000 14C yr B.P. The following cooling with temperatures about 3°–4°C cooler than present and precipitation about 100 mm lower corresponds well with the Younger Dryas Stade. Tundra–steppe vegetation changed to Betula nana–Alnus fruticosa shrub tundra ca. 10,000 14C yr B.P. Larch appeared in the area ca. 9400 14C yr B.P. and disappeared after 2900 14C yr B.P. Cooling events ca. 10,500, 9600, and 8200 14C yr B.P. characterized the first half of the Holocene. A significant warming occurred ca. 8500 14C yr B.P., but the Holocene temperature maximum was at about 6000–4500 14C yr B.P. The vegetation cover approximated modern conditions ca. 2800 14C yr B.P. Late Holocene warming events occurred at ca. 3500, 2000, and 1000 14C yr B.P. A cooling (Little Ice Age?) took place between 500 and 200 14C yr ago.
Generating Test Sets from Non-Deterministic Stream X-Machines
Authors: Ipate Florentin , Holcombe Mike
Published: October 2002

X-machines were proposed by Holcombe as a possible specification language and since then a number of further investigations have demonstrated that the model is intuitive and easy to use as well as general enough to cater for a wide range of applications. In particular (generalised) stream X-machines have been found to be extremely useful as a specification method and most of the theory developed so far has concentrated on this particular class of X-machines. Furthermore, a method for testing systems specified by stream X-machines exists and is proved to detect all faults of the implementation provided that the system meets certain initial requirements. However, this method can only be used to generate test sequences from deterministic X-machine specifications. In this paper we present the theoretical basis for a method for generating test sets from non-deterministic generalised stream X-machines.
Conformance Tests for Real-Time Systems with Timed Automata Specifications
Authors: Cardell-Oliver Rachel
Published: October 2002

A method is introduced for testing the conformance of implemented real-time systems to timed automata specifications. Uppaal timed automata are transformed into testable timed transition systems (TTTSs) using a test view. Fault hypotheses and a test generation algorithm for TTTSs are defined. Results of applying the method are presented.
Early and late results of the acid suppression and duodenal diversion operation in patients with Barrett’s esophagus: Analysis of 210 cases
Authors: Csendes Attila , Burdiles Patricio , Braghetto Italo , Korn Owen , Díaz Juan Carlos , Rojas Jorge
Published: October 2002

The usual surgical treatment for patients with Barrett’s esophagus (BE) is a classic Nissen fundoplication or posterior gastropexy with cardial calibration. However, some surgical reports as well as our experience suggest that the rate of failure of the Nissen fundoplication or Hill’s posterior gastropexy in patients with BE is significantly higher than in those with reflux esophagitis without BE, probably due in part to the persistence of duodenal reflux into the esophagus. Our aim was to determine the late subjective and objective results of an operation consisting in “acid suppression” (vagotomy‐partial gastrectomy) and “duodenal diversion” (Roux‐en‐Y anastomosis) as a primary surgical procedure for patients with BE. Altogether, 210 patients were subjected to this technique. It consisted in a primary operation in 142 patients and revision surgery in 68. They underwent complete clinical, radiologic, endoscopic, histologic, and manometric studies. In some cases 24‐hour pH studies, Bilitec studies, gastric emptying, and gastric acid secretion evaluations were performed. There were two deaths (0.95%), and postoperative morbidity was low (5.3%). The late mean follow‐up (58 months) for 146 patients who completed a follow‐up longer than 24 months showed Visick I and II grades in 91.1% of the cases. In 14.9% of the cases 24‐hour pH monitoring showed excessive acid reflux 1 year after surgery. No dysplasia or adenocarcinoma has appeared up to now. Functional studies showed significant alleviation of lower esophageal sphincter (LES) incompetence, with abolition of duodenal reflux into the esophagus. Gastric emptying of solids was normal, and basal and peak gastric acid output remained at a low level 8 to 10 years after surgery. In patients with BE, with severe damage of the LES and esophageal peristalsis, the “suppression diversion” operation completely abolishes the reflux of injurious components of the refluxate and improves sphincter competence. This effect is permanent and avoids the appearance of dysplasia or adenocarcinoma.
History of treatment of groin hernia
Authors: Lau W. Y.
Published: October 2002

The history of open surgery for groin hernia has gone through many stages of development, including the ancient era (ancient times to the fifteenth century), the era of the start of herniology (fifteenth to seventeenth centuries), the anatomic era (seventeenth to nineteenth centuries), the era of repair under tension (nineteenth to mid‐twentieth century), and the era of tensionless repair (mid‐twentieth century to the present). Five principles of modern hernia repair developed through these periods of development: antiseptic/aseptic hernia operation, high ligation of the sac, tightening of the internal ring, reconstruction of the posterior inguinal floor, and tensionless repair. Interestingly, many of the initial attempts at laparoscopic hernia repair did not adhere to the recognized principles of hernia surgery learned from open surgery. It is only when the transabdominal preperitoneal mesh repair and the totally extraperitoneal approach, which adhere to the basic principles, are considered that the results of laparoscopic hernia repair procedures can improve and the recurrence of hernia decrease.
Very long‐term recall and recognition of well‐learned material
Authors: Noice Tony , Noice Helga
Published: October 2002

Three experiments examined very long‐term verbatim memory (from 4 months to 28 years) for lengthy, complex material. Experiments 1 and 2 found that recall (12 and 20 months after the material was last accessed) was at or near ceiling for many participants, and was significantly higher than free‐choice recognition, with recognition failure for recallable words (RF) being observed. The magnitude of the effect corresponded to that predicted by the Tulving–Wiseman (1975) function. Experiment 3 found that recall was at or near ceiling for 3 years, then declined dramatically as the retention interval increased. However, given equal amounts of context as retrieval cues, forced‐choice recognition remained relatively strong for as long as 28 years. These findings provide evidence of long‐term memory for exact details of complex discourse far in excess of previous demonstrations, and, under certain circumstances, extend the RF phenomenon to lengthy, well‐learned texts over long retention intervals. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Memory for previous recall: a comparison of free and cued recall
Authors: Padilla‐Walker Laura Maria , Poole Debra Ann
Published: October 2002

Case studies of individuals who claimed to have recovered previously repressed memories of abuse during situations that involved memory cueing revealed that some individuals had discussed abuse with others during an earlier time period. Termed the ‘forgot‐it‐all‐along’ effect, this phenomenon has legal implications for statutes of limitations. Two experiments provide evidence for differences between free recall and more directed (recognition or cued recall) test conditions in the accuracy of memories for previous recall. Participants more often erred by claiming they had not previously remembered recognized (Experiment 1) or cued (Experiment 2) sentences than freely recalled sentences, and this difference was obtained even when the number of remembered sentences was equivalent across conditions (Experiment 2). These studies document that memory for previous recollection is less accurate for cued memories even when remembered events do not produce feelings of shock or surprise. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Multiple sclerosis associated with interferon‐alpha therapy for chronic myelogenous leukemia
Authors: Kataoka Itaru , Shinagawa Katsuji , Shiro Yoshihiko , Okamoto Shinichiro , Watanabe Reiko , Mori Takehiko , Ito Daisuke , Harada Mine
Published: October 2002

We report a chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) patient in chronic phase (CP) who developed multiple sclerosis (MS) in association with interferon‐alpha (IFN‐α) administration. In our patient, recombinant IFN‐α2b therapy induced hematologically complete and cytogenetically major partial response for CML first, and sequential central nervous system dysfunction evolved, which subsided shortly after the cessation of its administration. Restarting IFN‐α therapy by changing to a natural type of IFN‐α resulted in rapid exacerbation of MS. The patient's neurological symptoms progressed gradually, but partial hematologic response persisted without any IFN‐α derivatives or anti‐cancer agents until a matched unrelated donor transplant procedure was performed. Myeloablative therapy led to lasting stable state of MS and finally to complete cytogenetic remission of CML. This patient's presenting clinical course and laboratory data suggest that both exertion of anti‐leukemic activity and autoimmune process of MS might be mediated by mutual mechanisms, such as enhancement of specific cellular immunity induced by IFN‐α. Am. J. Hematol. 70:149–153, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Acetaminophen and diphenhydramine as premedication for platelet transfusions: A prospective randomized double‐blind placebo‐controlled trial
Authors: Wang Stephen E , Lara Primo N. , Lee‐Ow Angie , Reed Jeanne , Wang Lori R. , Palmer Patti , Tuscano Joseph M. , Richman Carol M. , Beckett Laurel , Wun Ted
Published: October 2002

Non‐hemolytic transfusion reactions (NHTR) occur in up to 30% of patients receiving platelet transfusions. Premedication with acetaminophen and diphenhydramine is a common strategy to prevent NHTR, but its efficacy has not been studied. In this prospective trial, transfusions in patients receiving pre‐storage leukocyte‐reduced single‐donor apheresis platelets (SDP) were randomized to premedication with either acetaminophen 650 mg PO and diphenhydramine 25 mg IV, or placebo. Fifty‐one patients received 98 transfusions. Thirteen patients had 15 NHTR: 15.4% (8/52) in the treatment arm and 15.2% (7/46) in the placebo arm. Premedication prior to transfusion of pre‐storage leukocyte reduced SDP does not significantly lower the incidence of NHTR as compared to placebo. Am. J. Hematol. 70:191–194, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Acute rhabdomyolysis as a complication of cytarabine chemotherapy for acute myeloid leukemia: Case report and review of literature
Authors: Truica Cristina I. , Frankel Stanley R.
Published: October 2002

Rhabdomyolysis is an unusual complication of chemotherapy that can lead to substantial morbidity through such complications as renal failure, infections, and disseminated intravascular coagulation. The syndrome has been described after treatment with cyclophosphamide, 5‐azacytidine, interleukin‐2, and interferon and after bone marrow transplantation. We report a patient with acute myeloid leukemia who developed fulminant rhabdomyolysis after treatment with a cytarabine‐containing regimen. The syndrome was complicated by acute renal failure requiring hemodyalisis, respiratory insufficiency, and pancreatitis. We suggest that the muscle damage might be related to the known ability of cytarabine to trigger the release of cytochrome c from the mitochondria, which could lead to uncoupling of the oxidative phosphorylation with subsequent depletion of ATP reserves at the skeletal muscle and rhabdomyolysis. Am. J. Hematol. 70:320–323, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Occupation, exposure to chemicals and risk of gliomas and meningiomas in Sweden
Authors: Navas‐Acién Ana , Pollán Marina , Gustavsson Per , Plato Nils
Published: October 2002

Background

Occupational exposures may be related to the development of brain cancer. The objective was to estimate occupational‐specific risk of gliomas and meningiomas among Swedish men and women gainfully employed in 1970 over the period 1971–1989, and the influence of occupational exposure to chemical substances.

Methods

A dataset linking cancer diagnoses from the Swedish national cancer register to occupational and demographical data obtained in the 1970 census was used to fit log‐linear Poisson models, in order to obtain relative risks adjusted by age, period, geographical area and town size. Exposure to 13 chemicals was assessed using a Swedish job‐exposure matrix.

Results

The main findings of this study among men were the increased risk of glioma with occupational exposure to arsenic, mercury, and petroleum products and of meningioma with lead. Women in occupational sectors with a higher socio‐economic status showed an increased incidence of both, gliomas and meningiomas.

Conclusions

Occupational exposure to some chemicals appeared to be related with an increased risk of glioma and meningioma in men. Exposures involved in glioma and meningioma development seemed to be different. Am. J. Ind. Med. 42:214–227, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Humoral beta‐cell autoimmunity in relation to HLA‐defined disease susceptibility in preclinical and clinical type 1 diabetes
Authors: Knip Mikael , Kukko Marika , Kulmala Petri , Veijola Riitta , Simell Olli , Åkerblom Hans K. , Ilonen Jorma
Published: October 2002

We have studied the relationship between diabetes‐associated autoantibodies and various HLA genotypes and alleles in patients with newly diagnosed type 1 diabetes, in non‐diabetic siblings and in children representing the general population to test the hypothesis that specific HLA genes regulate the humoral immune response to various autoantigens. Among the newly diagnosed patients we observed that those carrying the DR4‐DQB1*0302 haplotype had increased levels of insulin autoantibodies (IAA) and IA‐2 antibodies (IA‐2A), but low levels of GAD antibodies (GADA). In contrast, those with the DR3‐DQB1*02 haplotype had increased GADA titers but low IAA and IA‐2 levels. DQB1*02‐homozygous patients had a conspicuously low frequency and low levels of IA‐2A. Among the siblings there was an apparent association between genetic risk and the prevalence of islet cell antibodies (ICA), IAA, GADA, IA‐2A and multiple autoantibodies, the latter being detectable at a frequency of 24.1% in high risk siblings and at a frequency of only 0.9% in those with genotypes conferring disease protection. Among 7–16‐year‐old Finnish schoolchildren there was an association between GADA and the DQB1*02/*0302 genotype and the DQB1*0302 allele. Among young children identified from the general population based on high (DQB1*02/0302 heterozygosity) or moderate (DQB1*0302/x; x ≠ *02, *0301, *0602, *0603) genetic risk for type 1 diabetes the high risk children seroconverted more often to positivity for ICA, GADA and IA‐2A over their first 2 years of life. Among older sibs of these children we observed an obvious relationship between the degree of genetic risk and the frequency of ICA, IAA, GADA, IA‐2A, and multiple antibodies. Taken together these observations suggest that HLA genes have a strong impact on the appearance of diabetes‐associated autoantibodies both in first‐degree relatives of affected children and in the general population. In patients with newly diagnosed disease IA‐2A may be a more specific marker of beta‐cell damage, whereas GADA might reflect a propensity to autoimmunity in general. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Heritability and number of quantitative trait loci of neurocognitive functions in families with schizophrenia
Authors: Tuulio‐Henriksson Annamari , Haukka Jari , Partonen Timo , Varilo Teppo , Paunio Tiina , Ekelund Jesper , Cannon Tyrone D. , Meyer Joanne M. , Lönnqvist Jouko
Published: October 2002

Despite evidence for several chromosomal loci linked to schizophrenia, no susceptibility genes have been identified for the disorder. Using quantitative measures of phenotypic affection in place of clinical diagnostic categories or dichotomous classification of the affection status may be more effective in searching for susceptibility genes. Neurocognitive traits have been suggested as putative quantitative endophenotypes of the disorder, but their heritability estimates are not well known. We investigated the heritability of working memory, verbal declarative memory and its different components, and both verbal and visual ability functions in schizophrenia families with a well‐ascertained pedigree structure. We also estimated the number of quantitative trait loci (QTLs) contributing to these neurocognitive functions. Additive genetic heritability of the neurocognitive functions was estimated in a sample of schizophrenia patients and their first‐degree relatives (N = 264) from an isolated geographical subregion in Finland. The number of QTLs was analyzed using Markov chain Monte Carlo segregation analysis. Significant heritabilities were found in working memory and ability functions. Furthermore, the working memory functions revealed the most restricted number of QTLs. The mean numbers of loci for verbal and visual working memory were 1.2 and 1.0, respectively, with corresponding posterior probabilities of 73% and 70% for at least one locus. In declarative memory variables, the number of loci was more dispersed. Our results suggest that neurocognitive measures, particularly working memory, may provide valid quantitative phenotypic traits for linkage analyses searching predisposing genes for schizophrenia. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Pulmonary alveolar microlithiasis: Clinical features, evolution of the phenotype, and review of the literature
Authors: Castellana G. , Gentile M. , Castellana R. , Fiorente P. , Lamorgese V.
Published: October 2002

Pulmonary alveolar microlithiasis (PAM) (MIM 265100) is a rare, autosomal recessive pneumopathy characterized by intra‐alveolar formation and accumulation of tiny, roundish corpuscles called “microliths”. The name “alveolar microlithiasis” was first used by Puhr in 1933; since then, several reports have appeared, and over 300 individuals with this condition have been reported. We have reviewed the PAM cases in the literature in light of personal experience, focusing on medical implications, disease diagnosis and progression over time, familial predisposition, and geographical and sex distribution. This study confirms autosomal recessive inheritance and does not support the role of other, non‐genetic, factors in the pathogenesis of PAM. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Unexpected retention and concomitant loss of subtelomeric regions in balanced chromosome anomalies by FISH
Authors: Pettenati Mark J. , Jackle Bethy , Bobby Peggy , Stewart William , Von Kap‐Herr Chris , Mowrey Philip , Rao P. Nagesh , May Kristin M.
Published: October 2002

Florescence in situ hybridization (FISH) using subtelomeric probes has been useful in detecting cryptic telomeric chromosomal rearrangements. We report, for the first time, that cytogenetically visible chromosome rearrangements can occur between the subtelomeric and telomeric region in clinically normal individuals with balanced chromosome anomalies in which one of the breakpoints involves a terminal band region. Using FISH with subtelomeric probes, we observed in three cases with a balanced reciprocal translocations the retention and subsequent loss of subtelomeric regions. In one case with a paracentric inversion, there was a proximal relocation of a subtelomeric region. Because subtelomeric regions serve important roles in chromosome pairing, this retention and concomitant loss or relocation of a subtelomeric region could possibly further disrupt the complex meiotic configurations of these balanced chromosome rearrangements. This may then have an effect on gamete production, placing these individuals at a higher risk for miscarriages and/or abnormal outcomes for individuals with similar chromosome aberrations. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Brain biopterin and tyrosine hydroxylase in asymptomatic dopa‐responsive dystonia
Authors: Furukawa Yoshiaki , Kapatos Gregory , Haycock John W. , Worsley Julian , Wong Henry , Kish Stephen J. , Nygaard Torbjoern G.
Published: October 2002

It is assumed that brain biopterin and dopamine loss should not be as severe in asymptomatic dopa‐responsive dystonia caused by GCH1 mutations as it is in symptomatic dopa‐responsive dystonia. However, the actual status of dopaminergic systems in asymptomatic cases is unknown. In the autopsied putamen of an asymptomatic GCH1 mutation carrier, we found that brain biopterin loss (−82%) paralleled that reported in dopa‐responsive dystonia patients (−84%). However, tyrosine hydroxylase protein and dopamine levels (−52 and −44%, respectively) were not as severely affected as in symptomatic patients (exceeding −97 and −88%, respectively). Our data suggest that the extent of striatal tyrosine hydroxylase protein loss may be critical in determining dopa‐responsive dystonia symptomatology.
Synthesis and water absorbency of crosslinked superabsorbent polymers
Authors: Raju K. Mohana , Raju M. Padmanabha , Mohan Y. Murali
Published: October 2002

A series of novel copolymer superabsorbents based on monomer acrylamide (AM), potassium methacrylate (KMA), and 2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) were prepared by copolymerization using ammonium persulfate (APS) as an initiator and N,N‐methylenebisacrylamide (MBA) as a crosslinking agent. The synthetic variables (the monomer concentration, crosslinker concentration, and initiator concentration) were also studied. The experimental results of superabsorbent polymers (SAPs) show a better absorbency in both water and NaCl solutions. The copolymers were characterized by IR spectroscopy. The water retention in the soil was enhanced using the above superabsorbents. The use of SAPs for the growth of groundnut plants was also investigated. SAPs can be considered for water‐managing materials for agriculture and horticulture purposes in desert and drought‐prone areas. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 85: 1795–1801, 2002
Kudzu fiber‐reinforced polypropylene composite
Authors: Luo Xiaoyu , Benson Roberto S. , Kit Kevin M. , Dever Maureen
Published: October 2002

Kudzu fiber‐reinforced polypropylene composites were prepared, and their mechanical and thermal properties were determined. To enhance the adhesion between the kudzu fiber and the polypropylene matrix, maleic anhydride‐grafted polypropylene (MAPP) was used as a compatibilizer. A continuous improvement in both tensile modulus and tensile strength was observed up to a MAPP concentration of 35 wt %. Increases of 24 and 54% were obtained for tensile modulus and tensile strength, respectively. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) showed improved dispersion and adhesion with MAPP. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy showed an increase in hydrogen bonding with an increase in MAPP content. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) analysis indicated little change in the melting temperature of the composites with changes in MAPP content. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 85: 1961–1969, 2002
Preparation of phosphorous‐containing poly(epichlorohydrin) and polyurethane from a novel synthesis route
Authors: Wu Chuan Shao , Liu Ying Ling , Chiu Yie Shun
Published: October 2002

Phosphorylation of poly(epichlorohydrin) (PECH) was successfully performed via reacting the PH bond of 9,10‐dihydro‐oxa‐10‐phosphaphenanthrene‐10‐oxide (DOPO) with the pendent chloromethyl groups of PECH. From this reaction, phosphorus‐containing PECH with hydroxyl terminal groups was obtained. This compound was further reacted with toluene‐2,4‐diisocyanate to form a phosphorous‐containing polyurethane. The performance of the phosphorylation reaction and the structure of the resulting polymers were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, phosphorous‐31 nuclear magnetic resonance (31P NMR) spectroscopy, and elemental analysis. The phosphorylated PECH and polyurethane were characterized by thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), which showed weight loss retardation behavior under air at high temperature at >500 °C and high char yield at 700 °C. Both of the synthesized polymers are potentially useful as multifunctional modifiers for epoxy resins and for improving the toughness and flame retardancy of the resins. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 85: 2254–2259, 2002
Preparation and properties of PVA/PVP hydrogels containing chitosan by radiation
Authors: Nho Y. C. , Park K. R.
Published: October 2002

Radiation can induce chemical reactions to modify polymers even when they are in the solid state or at a low temperature. Radiation crosslinking can be easily adjusted by controlling the radiation dose and is reproducible. The finished product contains no residuals of substances required to initiate the chemical crosslinking, which can restrict its application possibilities. In these studies, hydrogels for wound dressing were made from a mixture of chitosan and polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)/poly‐N‐vinylpyrrolidone (PVP) by freezing and thawing, gamma‐ray irradiation, or combined freezing and thawing and gamma‐ray irradiation. The physical properties of the hydrogel, such as gelation, water absorptivity, and gel strength, were examined to evaluate the usefulness of the hydrogels for wound dressing. The PVA/PVP composition was 60:40, PVA/PVP–chitosan ratio was in the range 9:1–7:3, and the concentration of, PVA/PVP–chitosan as a solid was 15 wt %. A mixture of PVA/PVP–chitosan was exposed to gamma irradiation doses of 25, 35, 50, 60 and 70 kGy to evaluate the effect of irradiation dose on the physical properties of hydrogels. Water‐soluble chitosan was used in these experiment. The physical properties of the hydrogels, such as gelation and gel strength, were higher when the combination of freezing and thawing and irradiation were used rather than just freezing and thawing. The PVA/PVP–chitosan composition and irradiation dose had a greater influence on swelling than gel content. Swelling percent increased as the composition of chitosan in PVA/PVP–chitosan increased. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 85: 1787–1794, 2002
Influence of water on the viscoelastic behavior of recycled nylon 6,6
Authors: Vallés‐Lluch A. , Camacho W. , Ribes‐Greus A. , Karlsson S.
Published: October 2002

Nylons are highly sensitive to moisture, as water molecules are able to form hydrogen‐bonded complexes with nitrogen and oxygen from the amide functional groups. In recycled nylon 6,6, a higher absorbed moisture content can be detected in comparison to virgin material. Moisture uptake is manifested in chemical and physical properties, and has important technological consequences, so the relationship between them must be assessed. Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) has been used to measure the water content of different samples and physical changes have been analyzed by means of dynamic mechanical thermal analysis (DMTA). The relaxation zones of the dynamic‐mechanical relaxation spectra of the samples have been characterized according to the Fuoss‐Kirkwood equation and with help of the deconvolution method. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 85: 2211–2218, 2002
Effect of hydrothermal environment on moisture absorption and mechanical properties of wood flour–filled polypropylene composites
Authors: Lin Qunfang , Zhou Xiaodong , Dai Gance
Published: October 2002

The moisture absorption and mechanical properties of wood flour–filled polypropylene composites in a hydrothermal environment have been studied by immersing the composites in water at 23, 60, and 100°C. The degree of moisture absorption was found to be dependent on the modification of matrix, the weight percentage, mesh size, and surface treatment of wood flours. It increased with increasing the immersion temperature. The tensile strength of all composites with wood flours of different contents, mesh sizes, and surface treatments increased after immersion in water baths of various temperatures, to either greater or lesser extents. The flexural strength and modulus followed a similar trend when immersed in water at ambient temperature. However, the contrary was true for composites when immersed in 60 and 100°C water baths. The impact strength increased after immersion in water at each immersion temperature, and the extent of such increment decreased with increasing the immersion temperature. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 85: 2824–2832, 2002
Ganglionic eminence of the human fetal brain—new vistas
Authors: Ulfig Norbert
Published: October 2002

This review deals with recent findings concerning the complex functions of the ganglionic eminence (GE), which represents a conspicuous domain of the telencephalic proliferative zone and persists nearly throughout fetal life. The GE not only contains precursor neurons of the basal ganglia, it also contributes significantly to the population of interneurons in the cerebral cortex and to a population of thalamic neurons. The latter migrate through a distinct transient structure, the gangliothalamic body (GTB). The GE also represents an intermediate target for growing thalamic axons (on their way to the cerebral cortex) and cortical axons (on their way to the thalamus). In developmental neuropathology the GE plays an important role in prematurely born infants. The pathogenesis of GE bleedings is discussed with regard to the abundant expression of interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) receptors on GE cells. The consequences of such bleedings are discussed in view of cellular responses, such as the induction of leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) expression in GE cells after hemorrhage. Anat Rec 267:191–195, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Species‐specific differences of myosin content in the developing cardiac chambers of fish, birds, and mammals
Authors: Franco Diego , Gallego Alejandro , Habets Petra E.M.H. , Sans‐Coma V. , Moorman Antoon F.M.
Published: October 2002

Key morphogenetic events during heart ontogenesis are similar in different vertebrate species. We report that in primitive vertebrates, i.e., cartilaginous fishes, both the embryonic and the adult heart show a segmental subdivision similar to that of the embryonic mammalian heart. Early morphogenetic events during cardiac development in the dogfish are long‐lasting, providing a suitable model to study changes in pattern of gene expression during these stages. We performed a comparative study among dogfish, chicken, rat, and mouse to assess whether species‐specific qualitative and/or quantitative differences in myosin heavy chain (MyHC) distribution arise during development, indicative of functional differences between species. MyHC RNA content was investigated by means of in situ hybridisation using an MyHC probe specific for a highly conserved domain, and MyHC protein content was assessed by immunohistochemistry. MyHC transcripts were found to be homogeneously distributed in the myocardium of the tubular and embryonic heart of dogfish and rodents. A difference between atrial and ventricular MyHC content (mRNA and protein) was observed in the adult stage. Interestingly, differences in the MyHC content were observed at the tubular heart stage in chicken. These differences in MyHC content illustrate the distinct developmental profiles of avian and mammalian species, which might be ascribed to distinct functional requirements of the myocardial segments during ontogenesis. The atrial myocardium showed the highest MyHC content in the adult heart of all species analysed (dogfish (S. canicula), mouse (M. musculus), rat (R. norvegicus), and chicken (G. gallus)). These observations indicate that in the adult heart of vertebrates the atrial myocardium contains more myosin than the ventricular myocardium. Anat Rec 268:27–37, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Activation of the Sarcophaga lectin gene promoter in transgenic Drosophila
Authors: Tanji Takahiro , Kobayashi Ayako , Natori Shunji
Published: October 2002

We established transgenic Drosophila strains in which the lacZ gene was expressed under the control of the 5′‐upstream regulatory region of the Sarcophaga lectin gene promoter (3.1 kbp). The reporter gene was expressed in the fat bodies of the transgenic larvae when they were immunized by body pricking or treatment with Escherichia coli, which was the same as the Sarcophaga lectin gene expression in Sarcophaga larvae. However, the same reporter gene was found to be expressed constitutively in the digestive tracts of the transgenic larvae even without immunization. Arch. Insect Biochem. Physiol. 50:131–138, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Inhibition of insulin‐like growth factor binding protein 5 proteolysis in articular cartilage and joint fluid results in enhanced concentrations of insulin‐like growth factor 1 and is associated with improved osteoarthritis
Authors: Clemmons David R. , Busby Walker H. , Garmong Aaron , Schultz Duane R. , Howell David S. , Altman Roy D. , Karr Robert
Published: October 2002

Objective

The complement component C1s is present in dog joint fluid in an activated state. Since C1s degrades insulin‐like growth factor binding protein 5 (IGFBP‐5), we undertook to determine whether inhibiting C1s in joint fluid would result in an increase in the amount of intact IGFBP‐5 and IGF‐1 in cartilage and joint fluid, and whether C1s inhibition would be associated with a reduction in cartilage destruction during the development of osteoarthritis (OA).

Methods

Twenty‐two dogs were randomized to 3 treatment groups. All dogs underwent anterior cruciate ligament transection and were exercised. Dogs received 1 of 3 treatments: buffer alone (controls; n = 6); PB‐145, a peptide derived from the sequence of antithrombin III (n = 9); and pentosan polysulfate (PPS; n = 7). PB‐145 or saline was injected into the joint space 3 times per week for 3 weeks. PPS was injected intramuscularly weekly for 3 weeks.

Results

Joint histology showed preservation of chondrocytes and a smooth joint surface in the animals treated with PB‐145 and PPS. Mankin scoring showed statistically significant reductions in joint destruction with PB‐145 and PPS treatments (P < 0.01) compared with buffer control. Mean active collagenase concentrations were decreased by these two treatments. Immunoblotting of joint fluid showed that both treatments increased concentrations of intact IGFBP‐5. Direct analysis of IGFBP‐3 and IGFBP‐5 protease activity showed that IGFBP‐5 was degraded more rapidly and that PB‐145 and PPS inhibited the degradation of both proteins. Total IGF‐1 concentrations in joint fluid were increased 5.6–5.8‐fold by these two treatments. Analysis showed that C1s was being activated in joint fluid and that its activation was inhibited by the addition of PB‐145 or PPS.

Conclusion

The findings suggest that direct inhibition of the serine protease C1s results in increased concentrations of intact IGFBP‐5 and that proteolysis of IGFBP‐3 is also inhibited, probably by the inhibition of some other protease. This increase in concentrations of intact IGFBP‐3 and IGFBP‐5 leads to an increase in IGF‐1 which is associated with an improvement in joint architecture during the development of OA.
A serologic marker for fetal risk of congenital heart block
Authors: Salomonsson Stina , Dörner Thomas , Theander Elke , Bremme Katarina , Larsson Per , Wahren‐Herlenius Marie
Published: October 2002

Objective

To analyze the humoral immune response to Ro/SSA and La/SSB antigens in detail, in order to identify markers in mothers at high risk of having children with congenital heart block (CHB).

Methods

Serum samples were obtained from 9 Ro/La‐positive mothers who gave birth to affected children, from their 8 newborns with CHB, and from 26 Ro/La‐positive mothers whose children were healthy. Antibodies against Ro 52‐kd, Ro 60‐kd, and La were analyzed by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay and immunoblotting, using recombinant proteins and synthetic peptides.

Results

IgG anti‐Ro 52‐kd antibodies were detected in all mothers who gave birth to children with CHB, as well as in their affected children, but were less frequent and at lower levels in control mothers. Fine mapping revealed a striking difference in which the response in mothers with affected children was dominated by antibodies to amino acids 200–239 of the Ro 52‐kd protein (P = 0.0002), whereas the primary activity in control mothers was against amino acids 176–196 (P = 0.001). Furthermore, 8 of 9 mothers of children with CHB had antibody reactivity against amino acids 1–135 of the Ro 52‐kd protein, containing 2 putative zinc fingers reconstituted under reducing conditions.

Conclusion

The results suggest that development of CHB is strongly dependent on a specific antibody profile to Ro 52‐kd, which may be a useful tool to identify pregnant Ro/La‐positive women at risk of delivering a baby with CHB. Close monitoring of mothers at high risk would enable early detection of a block that is still developing and allow early treatment to combat more serious complications.
Heterogeneity between men and women in the influence of the HLA–DRB1 shared epitope on the clinical expression of rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: del Rincón Inmaculada , Battafarano Daniel F. , Arroyo Ramón A. , Murphy Frederick T. , Escalante Agustín
Published: October 2002

Objective

To test the hypothesis that the influence of the HLA–DRB1 shared epitope (SE) on the clinical manifestations of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) differs between men and women.

Methods

We assessed 777 consecutive RA patients for age at disease onset, articular manifestations, subcutaneous nodules, laboratory and radiographic findings, and treatment received. We typed HLA–DRB1 alleles by polymerase chain reaction–sequence‐specific primer amplification and categorized the number of SE‐containing alleles. We used regression models to adjust comparisons between the sexes for age and clustering by recruitment center, and included SE × sex interaction terms to look for heterogeneity between men and women in the effect of the SE.

Results

Among the 777 RA patients, 548 (71%) were women. Men and women differed significantly in the adjusted frequency of SE positivity (women 71.4% versus men 78.4%;P≤ 0.001). The SE was associated with a younger age at symptom onset and RA diagnosis among men, but not among women. The SE likewise had a significant adverse effect on joint tenderness, swelling, and deformity among men only. The SE was associated with a higher erythrocyte sedimentation rate in women and more frequent positivity for rheumatoid factor among both men and women.

Conclusion

There is heterogeneity between men and women in the effect of the SE on RA susceptibility and clinical expression. Further research is needed to understand the mechanism of this heterogeneity.