bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Specific interactions in 4‐hydroxybenzoic acid/poly(2‐vinylpyridine)/poly(N‐vinyl‐2‐pyrrolidone) blends
Authors: Li Xue‐Dong , Goh S. H.
Published: August 2002

The specific interactions in ternary 4‐hydroxybenzoic acid (HBA)/poly(2‐vinylpyridine) (P2VPy)/poly(N‐vinyl‐2‐pyrrolidone) (PVP) blends were studied by differential scanning calorimetry, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and electron microscopy. FTIR study shows the existence of hydrogen‐bonding interactions between HBA and P2VPy as well as PVP. The addition of a sufficiently large amount of HBA produces a blend showing one glass‐transition temperature (Tg). Microscopic study shows a drastic reduction in domain size in single‐Tg blends. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 81: 901–907, 2001
Stress development in drying coatings
Authors: Lei H. , Payne J. A. , McCormick A. V. , Francis L. F. , Gerberich W. W. , Scriven L. E.
Published: August 2002

As a solvent‐cast polymeric coating dries, each part reaches a concentration at which it solidifies and develops elastic modulus. Thereafter, as further solvent departs, that part shrinks out‐of‐plane, but not in‐plane, if the coating adheres to its substrate. Hence, it develops in‐plane elastic stress. If the stress grows large enough, the stress‐free state may yield, which reduces the final stress level. A theoretical model of diffusion and mass transfer, large shrinkage‐induced deformation, and elastic stress, together with yielding and postyielding viscous deformation, was developed to predict stress evolution in one‐dimensional drying of polymer coatings. Concentration varies only perpendicularly to the substrate, the coating shrinks only in that direction, and the stress varies only in that direction but is in‐plane isotropic. The predictions are compared with measurements of evolving stress in various solvent‐cast polymer coatings and aqueous gelatin coatings by a cantilever‐deflection method. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 81: 1000–1013, 2001
Thermal and dynamic mechanical properties of γ‐ray‐cured poly(methyl methacrylate) used as a dental‐base material
Authors: Usanmaz Ali , Eser Özlem , Doğan Arife
Published: August 2002

In this study, γ rays were used for the first time to cure dental‐base material. The effect of the radiation dose on the thermal and rheological properties of poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) used as a dental‐base material was investigated. The commercial powder and liquid material (heat‐curing‐grade) were mixed and polymerized at 60 and 70°C in a constant‐temperature water bath for 30 min and then were cured by γ rays, with total doses of 7.5, 15, 22.5, 30, 45, 52.5, 360, and 2160 krad. For each sample, the viscosity‐average molecular weights were measured, and no significant differences were observed of total dose on molecular weights. A thermal investigation with differential scanning calorimetry showed an exothermic peak in the thermograms of samples that were not completely polymerized and crosslinked. The rheological nature of the samples was studied with dynamic mechanical analysis. A comparison of properties of γ‐ray‐cured samples and those cured by other methods revealed γ curing to be a superior method for producing high‐molecular‐weight homogenous polymers with low porosity and crosslinking. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 81: 1291–1296, 2001
Characterization of glow‐discharge–treated cellulose acetate membrane surfaces for single‐layer enzyme electrode studies
Authors: Biederman Hynek , Boyaci Ismail H. , Bilkova Petra , Slavinska Danka , Mutlu Selma , Zemek Josef , Trchova Miroslava , Klimovic Josef , Mutlu Mehmet
Published: August 2002

Cellulose acetate membranes (CA) were modified by means of plasma polymerization of ethylene diamine (EDA) and n‐butylamine (n‐BA). The motivation for this work was the application of a modified membrane for the single‐layer enzyme electrode. A tubular reactor with the external radiofrequency (13.56 MHz) excitation was used. Surface modification was performed at 5, 10, and 15 W power (at 27 Pa working pressure) for 5, 10, 15 min. Modified surfaces were characterized in detail by FTIR–ATR, XPS (ESCA), contact angle, and enzyme immobilization activity. The best treatment results were obtained for EDA with 5 W and 30 min and 15 W and 10 min. These results are discussed using surface analysis data. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 81: 1341–1352, 2001
Surface modification of polypropylene membrane by low‐temperature plasma treatment
Authors: Kang Min Soo , Chun Baehyuck , Kim Sung Soo
Published: August 2002

Microporous polypropylene membranes were low temperature plasma treated with acrylic acid and allylamine. Parameters of plasma treatment were examined and optimized for the enhancement of membrane performance properties. Excess power damaged the membrane surface and excess monomer flow rate increased the reactor pressure to interfere with the glow discharge. Longer plasma treatment time resulted in even more plasma coating and micropore blocking. The contact angle with water decreased and wettabilities increased with the increase of plasma treatment time. Deposition of the plasma polymer on the membrane surface was confirmed by FTIR/ATR spectra of the treated surface. In determining the flux, the hydrophilicity of the surface played a role as important as that of the micropore size. Adequate plasma treatment could enhance both water flux and solute removal efficiency. Results from the BSA (bovine serum albumin) solution test confirmed that fouling was greatly reduced after the plasma treatment. The BSA solution flux through the plasma‐treated membranes depended on pH, whereas pH variation had no serious effects on the untreated membrane. Modification of the surface charge by the plasma treatment should exert a substantial influence on the adsorption and removal of BSA. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 81: 1555–1566, 2001
Preparation and characterization of pyrrole/aniline copolymer nanofibrils using the template‐synthesis method
Authors: Li Xiaohong , Zhang Xiaogang , Li Hulin
Published: August 2002

Copolymer nanofibrils composed of pyrrole and aniline had been prepared by synthesizing the desired polymer within the pores of microporous anodic aluminum oxide (AAO) template membrane. To analyze their structure and properties, FTIR spectra were taken and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) was applied. Also, the copolymer nanofibrils were photographed under scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) for microstructure analysis, and the conductivities were obtained by the four‐probe method. The result of SEM and TEM revealed that the obtained copolymer nanofibrils had uniform and well‐aligned array, and their diameter and length can be controlled by changing the aspect ratios of the AAO membrane. The result of IR spectrometry and TGA indicated that both polypyrrole and polyaniline were involved in the copolymer. The obtained nanofibrils were identified to be copolymer rather than composite. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 81: 3002–3007, 2001
Preparation and evaluation of some water‐soluble polyester surfactants
Authors: Azab M. M. , Bader S. K. , Shaaban A. F.
Published: August 2002

A novel series of water‐soluble polyester surfactants were prepared by the polymerization of bis‐1,4‐(dicarboxymethoxy) benzene, maleic anhydride, and oxypropylated 1,4‐butane diol (IP1–IP5) or oxypropylated 1,6‐hexane diol (IIP1–IIP5). The unique structural features of these surfactants were confirmed by IR and 1H‐NMR spectra. These water‐soluble polyester surfactants exhibited excellent surface tension, interfacial tension, low foaming, good emulsifier capability, and good biodegradability in river water, solubilization, wetting, and dispersant properties for applied dyes. The antimicrobial and antifungal properties of the prepared polyester surfactants were measured and found to be highly active. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 81: 3413–3424, 2001
Immobilization of yeast alcohol dehydrogenase by entrapment and covalent binding to polymeric supports
Authors: Soni Sunil , Desai J. D. , Devi Surekha
Published: August 2002

Yeast alcohol dehydrogenase (YADH), which catalyzes oxidoreductions of a broad spectrum of substrates, was immobilized by entrapping it into a network of a poly(acrylamide‐co‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate) copolymer and was also covalently bound onto porous chitosan beads activated through glutaraldehyde. Maximum retention of YADH activity achieved was 90 and 24% for entrapment and covalent binding, respectively. The results obtained for thermal, storage, and operational stability of entrapped and covalently bound YADH were compared with free YADH. The immobilized enzyme showed improved thermal and storage stability. The immobilized enzymes also retained 50% activity after six and eight cycles. Enzyme‐catalyzed oxidation of ethanol was observed to be diffusion‐controlled through Lineweaver–Burk plots. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 82: 1299–1305, 2001
Conducting polymer composites of zinc‐filled nylon 6
Authors: Pinto Gabriel , Maidana Mónica B.
Published: August 2002

The present work is concerned with the effect of processing variables and filler concentration on the electrical conductivity, hardness, and density of composite materials prepared by compression molding of a mixture of zinc powder and nylon 6 powder. The electrical conductivity of the composites is <10−12 S/cm, unless the metal content reaches the percolation threshold at a volume fraction of about 0.18, beyond which the conductivity increases markedly by as much as 10 orders of magnitude. The density of the composites was measured and compared with values calculated by assuming different void levels within the samples. Furthermore, it is shown that the hardness increases with the increase of metal concentration, but for values of filler volume fraction higher than about 0.30 the hardness of samples remains almost constant. Two parameters of molding process, temperature and time, were shown to have a notable effect on the conductivity of composites, whereas pressure has no influence on this property in the pressure range considered. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 82: 1449–1454, 2001
Characterization by thermal analysis of PP with enhanced biodegradability
Authors: Contat‐Rodrigo L. , Ribes‐Greus A. , Díaz‐Calleja R.
Published: August 2002

Samples of polypropylene (PP) filled with a biodegradable additive marketed under the Bioefect trademark, were subjected to an outdoor soil burial test for 21 months. Samples were initially characterized by thermogravimetry. The kynetics of the thermal degradation of both the carbonated chains of PP and the additive have been studied by means of the Hirata differential method and the Broido integral method. Such analysis reveals that the additive is more affected by the degradation process than the PP matrix. Changes in the morphology of the samples with the exposure time have been analyzed by Differential Scanning Calorimetry, in terms of the crystalline content of PP and its lamellar thickness distribution. The β‐ and α‐relaxation zones of the dynamic mechanical relaxation spectra of both PP and pure Bioefect have been characterized using the Fuoss‐Kirkwood equation and a deconvolution method. The analysis of the relaxation spectra shows that the interfacial and crystalline regions of the PP matrix are quite affected by the degradation process. On the other hand, it has also been found that changes in the crystallinity and the mechanical behavior of the samples take place in different stages. Such an evolution can be adequately represented by polynomial equations. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 82: 2174–2184, 2001
Study on β‐cyclodextrin grafting with chitosan and slow release of its inclusion complex with radioactive iodine
Authors: Chen Shuiping , Wang Yuting
Published: August 2002

β‐CD‐2‐CTS was synthesized by β‐cyclodextrin reacting with p‐toluenesulfonyl chloride, then grafting with chitosan. The infrared spectra analysis and 13C NMR confirmed that β‐cyclodextrin reacted with p‐toluenesulfonyl chloride at the 2‐position carbon atom in the substituted glucose unit of β‐cyclodextrin and formed β‐CD‐2‐OTs. In the 13C NMR of β‐CD‐2‐OTs, the characteristic peak of the 2‐postion carbon atom in the substituted glucose unit of β‐cyclodextrin appeared at 78.43 ppm. β‐CD‐2‐CTS was characterized with infrared spectra analysis and X‐ray diffraction. In the infrared spectra of β‐CD‐2‐CTS, the characteristic peak of α‐pyanyl vibration of β‐CD was at 848.6 cm−1. The characteristic peak of β‐pyanyl vibration of CTS was at 894.9 cm−1. The X‐ray diffraction analysis showed that the peak at 2θ = 20° decreased greatly in β‐CD‐2‐CTS. The polymer inclusion complex of β‐CD‐2‐CTS with iodine was prepared and its inclusion ability was studied. The experimental results showed that a nice bit of iodine was included with β‐CD‐2‐CTS and formed a stable inclusion complex. After the subcutaneous implantation of the polymer inclusion complex of β‐CD‐2‐CTS with 131I2 in rats, 131I2 exhibited the property of slow release. 131I2 in the blood of rats decreased slowly. 131I2 in the blood of rats maintained approximately half of maximum for 70 days later, and maintained much higher radioactivity in the organs of rats compared to the inclusion complex of β‐CD with 131 I2, too. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 82: 2414–2421, 2001
Dynamic quenching of 5‐(2′‐ethyl‐hexyloxy)‐p‐phenylene vinylene (MEH‐PPV) by charge transfer to a C60 derivative in solution
Authors: Wang Jian , Wang Deli , Moses Daniel , Heeger Alan J.
Published: August 2002

The fluorescence of 5‐(2′‐ethyl‐hexyloxy)‐p‐phenylene vinylene (MEH‐PPV) quenched in solution in 1,2‐dichlorobenzene by a soluble derivative of C60 [1‐(3‐methoxycarbonyl)propyl‐1‐phenyl[6,6]C61; [6,6]PCBM] is studied by changing the concentration of the quencher and by varying the temperature. For MEH‐PPV and PCBM dissolved in 1,2‐dichlorobenzene, the Stern–Volmer constant (KSV) is 2 × 103M−1. At high temperature, KSV is enhanced because thermal energy facilitates the diffusion of PCBM. The results show that dynamic quenching (rather than static quenching) is the basic mechanism. Comparison with data obtained from quenching studies of trans‐stilbene indicates that a single acceptor in contact with an MEH‐PPV macromolecule quenches the luminescence from hundreds of repeat units. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 82: 2553–2557, 2001
Phase morphology of polystyrene–polyarylate block copolymer/polycarbonate blends and their application to disk substrates
Authors: Ohishi Hiroshi , Ikehara Takayuki , Nishi Toshio
Published: August 2002

Polystyrene–polyarylate (PS–PAr) block copolymer was applied as a moldability modifier of polycarbonate (PC). From the 1,1,1,3,3,3‐hexafluoro‐2‐propanol (HFIP) extraction results, PS–PAr block copolymer was demonstrated to copolymerize with PC via an in situ reaction between the PAr chain and PC. As a result of the chemical bonding between PS and PC chains, the PS dispersed domain in the PS–PAr block copolymer/PC blend could be reduced, on average, to a size smaller than the visible light wavelength. In particular, by adjusting PAr composition to 30 wt % in the fed PS–PAr block copolymer during the melt‐mixing process, the PS domain size was completely reduced to be smaller than the visible light wavelength. As a result the blend substrate could satisfy the transparency required for the optical disk substrate with higher memory density: homogeneity under polarizing light, clarity on the reflective plate, and transparency at 400 nm. The melt viscosity could be lowered to the equal viscosity level of PC at about 30°C higher temperature by blending PC 15 wt % with the PS–PAr block copolymer. The lowered melt viscosity could reduce the retardation in the optical disk substrate, which was equivalent to that of the PC substrate processed at 30°C higher. In addition, the PS–PAr block copolymer/PC blend could attain the exact groove transcription at 20°C lower mold temperature than that of PC as a result of the lowered elastic modulus caused by the PS‐rich phase. These features of the PS–PAr block copolymer/PC blend indicated a potential to offer an improved process window for the substrate molding. Because of its excellent transparency and a potential for processing flexibility, the PS–PAr block copolymer/PC blend would be a promising material for optical disk substrates with higher memory density. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 82: 2566–2582, 2001
Photocuring of acrylate oligomers containing pentabromo benzylacrylate as flame‐retarding monomer and properties of cured films
Authors: Imamoglu Tülin , Yagci Yusuf
Published: August 2002

Photocuring of formulations containing polyurethane and unsaturated polyester acrylate oligomers and a flame‐retarding (FR) monomer, that is, pentabromo benzylacrylate, with various α‐cleavage–type photoinitiators were studied. The effects of each photoinitiator on photocuring efficiency in both the presence and the absence of the FR monomer were examined. The flame retardancy and both physical and mechanical properties of the cured films were also investigated. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 83: 1181–1189, 2002
Study of stability of high‐temperature polyimides using TG/MS technique
Authors: Xie Wei , Heltsley Rebecca , Cai Xinhua , Deng Fuquan , Liu Jiemin , Lee Charles , Pan Wei‐Ping
Published: August 2002

The oxidative stability of the carbon fiber‐reinforced composite of polyimide was examined, in real time, using the evolved gas analysis techniques. Off‐gas degradation products suggested the onset temperature for chain scissions to be fairly low at about 190–220°C. Based on the off‐gas products present and the trend of their release, the composite degradation mechanism appeared to be similar between 190 and 371°C, thereby marking 371°C to be the highest accelerated aging temperature for its long‐term lifetime prediction. Beyond 371°C, different degradation mechanisms would apply. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 83: 1219–1227, 2002
Study of the synthesis of chitosan derivatives containing benzo‐21‐crown‐7 and their adsorption properties for metal ions
Authors: Tang Xin‐Hu , Tan Shu‐Ying , Wang Yu‐Ting
Published: August 2002

Three new chitosan crown ethers, N‐Schiff base‐type chitosan crown ethers (I, III), and N‐secondary amino type chitosan crown ether (II) were prepared. N‐Schiff base‐type chitosan crown ethers (I, III) were synthesized by the reaction of 4′‐formylbenzo‐21‐crown‐7 with chitosan or crosslinked chitosan. N‐Secondary amino type chitosan‐crown ether (II) was prepared through the reaction of N‐Schiff base type chitosan crown ether (I) with sodium brohydride. Their structures were characterized by elemental analysis, infrared spectra analysis, X‐ray diffraction analysis, and solid‐state 13C NMR analysis. In the infrared spectra, characteristic peaks of CN stretch vibration appeared at 1636 cm−1 for I and 1652 cm−1 for II; characteristic peaks of NH stretch vibration appeared at 1570 cm−1 in II. The X‐ray diffraction analysis showed that the peaks at 2θ = 10° and 28° disappeared in chitosan derivatives I and III, respectively; the peak at 2θ = 10° disappeared and the peak at 2θ = 28° decreased in chitosan‐crown ether II; and the peak at 2θ = 20° decreased in all chitosan derivatives. In the solid‐state 13C NMR, characteristic aromatic carbon appeared at 129 ppm in all chitosan derivatives, and the characteristic peaks of carbon in CN groups appeared at 151 ppm in chitosan crown ethers I and III. The adsorption and selectivity properties of I, II, and III for Pd2+, Au3+, Pt4+, Ag+, Cu2+, and Hg2+ were studied. Experimental results showed these adsorbents not only had good adsorption capacities for noble metal ions Pd2+, Au3+, Pt4+, and Ag+, but also high selectivity for the adsorption of Pd2+ with the coexistence of Cu2+ and Hg2+. Chitosan‐crown ether II only adsorbs Hg2+ and does not adsorbs Cu2+ in an aqueous system containing Pd2+, Cu2+, and Hg2+. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 83: 1886–1891, 2002
From an environmental policy towards a sustainable tourism industry. The Albanian case
Authors: Santoro Lezzi Cecilia
Published: August 2002

Albania possesses enormous potential in terms of environment resources, which could play a leading role in the economic reconstruction of the country. A great heritage of environmental resources, as well as of historical and archaeological sites, occurs along the coasts, which could allow a substantial development in the sector of tourism. Among the many priorities facing this emerging country, a valorization of the coastline may reveal that it represents one of the country's greatest resources, even if, at the moment, it shows signs of degradation and pollution. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Expression of bone morphogenetic protein‐5 gene during chick heart development: Possible roles in valvuloseptal endocardial cushion formation
Authors: Yamagishi Toshiyuki , Nakajima Yuji , Nishimatsu Shin‐Ichiro , Nohno Tsutomu , Ando Katsumi , Nakamura Hiroaki
Published: August 2002

The bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) family, comprising multifunctional peptide growth factors, regulates many developmental processes in a variety of tissues. We examined the spatiotemporal expression of BMP5 by in situ hybridization in chick embryonic hearts from stages 5 to 33. The BMP5 gene was first expressed in the endoderm underlying the precardiac mesoderm at stages 5 to 8. Thereafter, BMP5 expression was restricted to the myocardium of the atrioventricular (AV) canal and outflow tract (OT) regions, where the valvuloseptal endocardial cushion tissue is induced. These results suggest that BMP5 may play important roles not only in myocardial differentiation, but also in the formation and maintenance of endocardial cushion tissue. Anat Rec 264:313–316, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Pathology of the adult central nervous system induced by genetic inhibition of programmed cell death in Drosophila pupae
Authors: Usui‐Aoki Kazue , Nakano Yoshiro , Yamamoto Daisuke
Published: August 2002

In the spinster (spin) mutant of Drosophila melanogaster, the extent of programmed cell death (PCD) in the abdominal ganglion 6 h after puparium formation (APF) is significantly reduced. The shortening of the abdominal ganglion, which is normally completed 48 h APF, does not occur. After eclosion, neurodegeneration accompanied by accumulation of autofluorescent materials is manifested in the central nervous system (CNS) of the spin mutant. The materials accumulated in the spin‐mutant CNS contain a substance that is immunopositive to an antibody against GM2 ganglioside. Halving the dosage of three cell death genes, rpr, grim, and hid, blocks shortening of the abdominal ganglion and induces neurodegeneration accompanied by accumulation of autofluorescent materials in the adult CNS. These observations suggest that the primary action of the spin mutation is to reduce the extent of PCD 6 h APF, which concomitantly leads to a failure in shortening of the abdominal ganglion and to neurodegeneration of the adult CNS. Arch. Insect Biochem. Physiol. 49:94–101, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Endogenous control of circadian rhythms of pheromone production in the turnip moth, Agrotis segetum
Authors: Rosén WenQi
Published: August 2002

The circadian variation of pheromone production in the turnip moth, Agrotis segetum, was characterized by quantifying (Z)‐7‐dodecenyl acetate (Z7‐12:OAc), the most abundant pheromone component produced by female turnip moth, at different times of day. Under 17:7 h light‐dark cycle (LD), the peak of Z7‐12:OAc production occurred around 4 h into the scotophase, while there was very little pheromone production during the photophase. When females were maintained under constant darkness (DD), the periodicity of pheromone production was sustained for 3 consecutive days. Furthermore, the rhythm in pheromone production could be entrained to a shifted LD. These results demonstrate that the pheromone production in the turnip moth is regulated endogenously by a circadian clock. To understand how the circadian rhythm of pheromone production is generated, circadian variation of pheromone‐ biosynthesis‐activating neuropeptide (PBAN)‐like activity in the brain‐suboesophageal ganglion complexes (Br‐SOG), hemolymph, and ventral nerve cord (VNC) was also examined. Under both LD and DD, only the VNC displayed a circadian variation in the PBAN‐like activity, which was significantly higher during the late‐photophase than that in the scotophase. In addition, the present study showed that removal of VNC in isolated abdomen did not affect PBAN stimulation of pheromone production, while severing the VNC impaired normal pheromone production. The role of Br‐SOG, VNC, and hemolymph in the regulation of the periodicity of pheromone production is discussed. Arch. Insect Biochem. Physiol. 50:21–30, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Age‐ and diapause‐related acid and alkaline phosphatase activities in the intestine and malpighian tubules of the Colorado potato beetle, Leptinotarsa decemlineata (Say)
Authors: Yi Shu‐Xia , Adams T.S.
Published: August 2002

Specific activities for soluble (s) and membrane (m)‐bound acid (ACP) and alkaline phosphatases (ALP) were determined in the midgut, hindgut, and Malpighian tubules for developing, prediapausing, and diapausing adult Colorado potato beetles, Leptinotarsa decemlineata (Say). High ACP activities were found in the hindgut and Malpighian tubules while high ALP activities were found in the Malpighian tubules. Variation in both ACP and ALP activities in each tissue reflects fluctuation in protein synthesis and secretion involved with digestion, excretion, and other unknown functions. Phosphatase activities in the tissues examined show the dynamic nature of diapause in this insect. Diapausing beetles showed increases in phosphatase activity after hormone treatments. JHA treatments increased s‐ACP and m‐ACP activities in all tissues but 20‐HE did not increase activity in any tissue. Allatotropin tended to mimic the effects of JHA treatment. The s‐ALP activity was also increased in all tissues whereas m‐ALP was increased in the midgut and hindgut by JHA treatment. Malpighian tubule m‐ALP activity was only increased by 20‐HE treatments. Allatotropin was not as effective in increasing ALP activities as it was with ACP activities. Arch. Insect Biochem. Physiol. 46:152–163, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Differences in midgut serine proteinases from larvae of the bruchid beetles Callosobruchus maculatus and Zabrotes subfasciatus
Authors: Silva Carlos P. , Terra Walter R. , Lima Rodrigo M.
Published: August 2002

Proteinase activities in the larval midguts of the bruchids Callosobruchus maculatus and Zabrotes subfasciatus were investigated. Both midgut homogenates showed a slightly acidic to neutral pH optima for the hydrolysis of fluorogenic substrates. Proteolysis of ϵ‐aminocaproil‐Leu‐Cys(SBzl)‐MCA was totally inhibited by the cysteine proteinase inhibitors E‐64 and leupeptin, and was activated by 1.5 mM DTT in both insects, while hydrolysis of the substrate Z‐ArgArg‐MCA was inhibited by aprotinin and E‐64, which suggests that it is being hydrolysed by serine and cysteine proteinases. Gel assays showed that the proteolytic activity in larval midgut of C. maculatus was due to five major cysteine proteinases. However, based on the pattern of E‐64 and aprotinin inhibition, proteolytic activity in larval midgut of Z. subfasciatus was not due only to cysteine proteinases. Fractionation of the larval midgut homogenates of both bruchids through ion‐exchange chromatography (DEAE‐Sepharose) revealed two peaks of activity against Z‐ArgArg‐MCA for both bruchid species. The fractions from C. maculatus have characteristics of cysteine proteinases, while Z. subfasciatus has one non‐retained peak of activity containing cysteine proteinases and another eluted in a gradient of 250–350 mM NaCl. The proteolytic activity of the retained peak is higher at pH 8.8 than at pH 6.0 and corresponds with a single peak that is active against N‐p‐tosyl‐GlyGlyArg‐MCA, and sensitive to 250 μM aprotinin (90% inhibition). The peak contains a serine proteinase which hydrolyzes α‐amylase inhibitor 1 from the common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris). Arch. Insect Biochem. Physiol. 47:18–28, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Geophysical Investigation at the Falling Creek Ironworks, an Early Industrial Site in Virginia
Authors: Jones Geoffrey
Published: August 2002

A geophysical investigation was conducted at the site of the Falling Creek Ironworks (1619–1622), the first iron production facility in North America. Electrical resistance and magnetic field gradient surveys were conducted over the site of the seventeenth century ironworks. Additionally, ground‐penetrating radar was used to investigate areas under an existing roadway. Linear and rectangular anomalies that appear in the resistance data may be caused by architectural features, possibly shops or domestic structures associated with the ironworks. Several low‐amplitude magnetic anomalies that appear in the data appear to be cultural in origin, and may be caused by features associated with the ironworks. A number of high‐amplitude magnetic anomalies appear in the magnetic field gradient data that are thought to be associated with iron production, including extensive slag deposits and the possible location of the blast furnace. Ground‐penetrating radar data shows an anomalous reflection in the vicinity of the suspected blast furnace, which is partially beneath the modern roadway. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Constitutive expression of BCL‐XL in the T lineage attenuates collagen‐induced arthritis in Bcl‐XL transgenic mice
Authors: Chen Ying , Rosloniec Ed , Price Jim , Boothby Mark , Chen Jin
Published: August 2002

Objective

To determine if inhibition of T cell apoptosis through constitutive expression of Bcl‐XL in the T lineage influences inflammatory arthritis in the mouse collagen‐induced arthritis (CIA) model.

Methods

The incidence and severity of arthritis were quantified in Bcl‐XL transgenic mice and nontransgenic littermates after immunization with type II collagen (CII). To correlate T cell responses with disease phenotype, antigen‐specific T cell proliferation was measured by 3H‐thymidine incorporation. Apoptosis and cell cycle progression were analyzed by flow cytometry using propidium iodide. Production of CII‐specific interferon‐γ (IFNγ), interleukin‐5 (IL‐5), and IL‐10 was determined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

Disease severity in CIA was significantly attenuated in Bcl‐XL transgenic mice compared with their nontransgenic littermates. Inhibition of CIA was associated with decreased T cell apoptosis, delayed cell cycle progression, and reduced IFNγ production.

Conclusion

Rather than promoting inflammation, inhibition of apoptosis by expression of the Bcl‐XL protein in the T lineage attenuates disease progression in CIA, probably through inhibition of IFNγ production.
A novel mutation in the third extracellular domain of the tumor necrosis factor receptor 1 in a Finnish family with autosomal‐dominant recurrent fever
Authors: Nevala Hanna , Karenko Leena , Stjernberg Susanna , Raatikainen Maria , Suomalainen Hanna , Lagerstedt Anssi , Rauta Jenita , McDermott Michael F. , Peterson Pärt , Pettersson Tom , Ranki Annamari
Published: August 2002

Objective

To investigate the presence of TRAPS (tumor necrosis factor receptor–associated periodic syndrome), which is a recently defined, dominantly inherited autoinflammatory syndrome caused by mutations in the tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily 1A gene (TNFRSF1A, CD120a), in a Finnish family with recurrent fever.

Methods

The TNFRSF1A gene was sequenced in both affected and unaffected family members. Flow cytometry and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay analyses were used to assess membrane expression and serum levels of the TNFRSF1A protein, respectively.

Results

A missense mutation in exon 4, located in the third extracellular domain of TNFRSF1A and resulting in an amino acid substitution (F112I) close to a conserved cysteine, was found in all 4 affected family members and in 1 asymptomatic individual. The mutation was clearly associated with low levels of soluble TNFRSF1A as well as with the clinical symptoms of recurrent fever and abdominal pain. Impaired shedding of TNFRSF1A after phorbol myristate acetate stimulation was detected in blood granulocytes and monocytes from the 3 adult family members with the mutation, but in the child bearing the mutation and showing clinical symptoms of recent onset, the shedding defect was less marked.

Conclusion

TRAPS should be suspected in any patient who presents with a history of intermittent fever accompanied by unexplained abdominal pain, arthritis, or skin rash, particularly in the presence of a family history of such symptoms. Screening for low serum levels of soluble TNFRSF1A identifies individuals who are likely to have TNFRSF1A mutations.
Assessment of fatigue in patients with ankylosing spondylitis: A psychometric analysis
Authors: van Tubergen Astrid , Coenen Jolanda , Landewé Robert , Spoorenberg Anneke , Chorus Astrid , Boonen Annelies , van der Linden Sjef , van der Heijde Désirée
Published: August 2002

Objectives

To investigate whether the single‐item fatigue question of the Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index (BASDAI) and the Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory (MFI) are appropriate instruments to measure fatigue in ankylosing spondylitis (AS); to identify factors that influence fatigue in AS; and to assess how fatigue in all its aspects is associated with quality of life in AS.

Methods

A total of 812 patients with AS were included. Patients completed questionnaires on disease activity (BASDAI), functional ability (Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Functional Index [BASFI]), global well‐being (Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Global Score [BAS‐G]), overall perceived health (EuroQoL visual analog scale), and quality of life (Ankylosing Spondylitis Quality of Life questionnaire, and Short Form 36 [SF‐36]). Patients were dichotomized into a F+ group (fatigue = major symptom) if the BASDAI fatigue score was > 5.0 and a F− group (fatigue = minor symptom) if the fatigue score was < 5.0. Reproducibility was assessed with intraclass correlation coefficients, and responsiveness was calculated according to 3 different methods. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine which factors were associated with fatigue. Multiple regression analysis was used to investigate whether fatigue contributes in explaining quality of life.

Results

Fifty‐three percent of the patients were assigned to the F+ group. They scored significantly worse compared with the F− group with respect to each dimension of the MFI and to all other questionnaires studied (all P < 0.001). The BASDAI fatigue question, as well as each separate dimension of the MFI, showed moderate to good reproducibility (0.57–0.75) and responsiveness (0.23–0.96). Fatigue was, in the opinion of the patients, highly associated with pain (70% of patients) and stiffness (54% of patients). Logistic regression analysis showed that scores on BASDAI, BASFI, BAS‐G, and mental health status (SF‐36) were independently associated with fatigue (R2 = 0.52). Multiple regression analysis showed that scores on the BASDAI fatigue question were significantly associated with quality of life. With the 5 MFI dimensions as explanatory variables, different aspects of fatigue were associated with different domains of quality of life.

Conclusions

Fatigue as a major symptom of AS can effectively be measured with either a single‐item question on the intensity of fatigue or with the MFI. The MFI, however, provides more insight into specific dimensions of fatigue. Fatigue appears to be associated with the level of disease activity, functional ability, global well‐being, and mental health status. In addition, fatigue negatively influences different aspects of quality of life.
Pharmacokinetics of andolast after administration of single escalating doses by inhalation in mild asthmatic patients
Authors: Persiani S. , D'Amato M. , Makovec F. , Arshad S.H. , Holgate S.T. , Rovati L.C.
Published: August 2002

The pharmacokinetics of andolast, a new tetrazolyl‐benzamido derivative with antiallergic, antiinflammatory, mucosal protective and antisecretive activities, have been investigated in patients suffering from mild asthma (FEV1⩾70% of predicted) in whom obstruction was reversible (FEV1 increase⩾15% of initial) after the administration of 0.2 mg of salbutamol by inhalation. Twelve out‐patients (seven males and five females) were enrolled in the present study and were treated with a single dose of andolast of 2, 4 and 8 mg by inhalation using the MIAT Monohaler® device according to a randomised crossover design. Plasma samples were collected before drug administration and up to 540 min after dosing. Andolast plasma concentrations were determined using a validated LC‐MS/MS method with a limit of quantitation of 0.2 ng ml−1. Pharmacokinetic analysis was carried out using standard non‐compartmental methods. In addition, andolast safety and tolerability were evaluated by performing standard laboratory tests, by recording vital signs and ECGs and by monitoring the occurrence of adverse events throughout the study period. Andolast was absorbed after inhalation and was available to the systemic circulation. The mean peak plasma concentrations were 6.3, 10.9 and 30.5 ng ml−1 at the three doses, respectively, and occurred at 30, 52.5 and 30 min (median tmax). The mean AUCt values were 1852, 2889 and 7677 ng min ml−1. The apparent plasma clearance (CL/F) and volume of distribution (Vz/F) were, respectively, 1168 ml min−1 and 430 l at the dose of 2 mg, 1143 ml min−1 and 468 l at the dose of 4 mg, and 1141 ml min−1 and 486 l at the dose of 8 mg. The apparent elimination half‐life averaged 4.5, 5.0 and 4.6 h at the three doses, respectively. Even though the small number of subjects participating in the present study reduced the power of the statistical test, there was no statistically significant evidence of non‐proportionality for all the andolast pharmacokinetic parameters calculated at the three doses. Thus, the data obtained as a whole suggest that andolast pharmacokinetics are dose‐independent in the dose range investigated. Finally, the safety and tolerabilty of the drug administered to mild asthmatic patients was good up to the maximum investigated dose of 8 mg. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Study of high‐ and low‐current‐configuration homes from the 1988 Denver childhood cancer study
Authors: Kaune W.T. , Dovan T. , Kavet R.I. , Savitz D.A. , Neutra R.R.
Published: August 2002

An epidemiological study conducted by Savitz et al. reported that residential wire codes were more strongly associated with childhood cancer than were measured magnetic fields, a peculiar result because wire codes were originally developed to be a surrogate for residential magnetic fields. The primary purpose of the study reported here, known as the Back to Denver (BTD) study, was to obtain data to help in the interpretation of the original results of Savitz et al. The BTD study included 81 homes that had been occupied by case and control subjects of Savitz et al., stratified by wire code as follows: 18 high current configuration (HCC) case homes; 20 HCC control homes; 20 low current configuration (LCC) case homes; and 23 LCC control homes. Analysis of new data acquired in these homes led to the following previously unpublished conclusions. The home‐averaged (i.e., mean of fields measured in subjects' bedrooms, family/living rooms, and rooms where meals normally eaten) spot 60 Hz, 180 Hz, and harmonic (i.e., 60–420 Hz) magnetic fields were associated with wire codes. The 180 Hz and harmonic components, but not the 60 Hz component, were associated with case/control status. Measured static magnetic fields were only weakly correlated (r ≈ 0.2) between rooms in homes. The BTD data provide little support for, but are too sparse to definitively test, the 1995 resonance hypothesis proposed by Bowman et al. Case and control homes had similar concentrations of copper in their tap water. Copper concentration was not associated with wire codes nor with the level of electric current carried by a home's water pipe. These results of the BTD study suggest that future case/control studies investigating power frequency magnetic fields might wish to include measurements of 180 Hz or harmonic magnetic fields in order to examine their associations (if any) with disease status. Bioelectromagnetics 23:177–188, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Carcinogenicity test in B6C3F1 mice after parental and prenatal exposure to 50 Hz magnetic fields
Authors: Otaka Yoshihisa , Chida Tetsuo , Yamagishi Yasuhiko , Kitamura Satoshi
Published: August 2002

Some epidemiological studies suggest association of childhood cancer with occupational exposure of the parents to magnetic fields. To test this relationship, 50 each of C57BL/6J female and C3H/HeJ male mice were exposed for 2 and 9 weeks, respectively, to 50 Hz sham (group A), 0.5 (group B), and 5 mT (group C) sinusoidal alternating magnetic fields. They were mated under the exposure for up to 2 weeks, and the exposure was continued until parturition. All the B6C3F1 offspring, without adjusting numbers of animals, were clinically observed without exposure to magnetic field for a nominal 78 weeks from 6–8 weeks of age after weaning and then euthanized for pathological examination according to a routine carcinogenicity test. 540 pups entered the test, and the survival rate was 96.7%. No F1 mouse died of tumoral diseases before a male in A group died of stomach cancer at 43 weeks of age. The first animal death in the exposed groups due to tumor occurred at 71 weeks of age. Eighteen animals died before necropsy at 84–86 weeks of age. No significant difference was detected in the final number of survivors and incidence of tumors between groups A and B, or A and C. Concerning reproduction total implants in group B were less than in group A and the difference was on the borderline of significance (P = .05). This difference was not reproduced in a later duplicate experiment. Bioelectromagnetics 23:206–213, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Comparison of three different ways of measuring distances between residences and high voltage power lines
Authors: Blaasaas Karl Gerhard , Tynes Tore
Published: August 2002

The aim of this study was to evaluate whether distance data based on calculations by use of digitalized geographical information systems (GIS) and distance data based on measurements on 1:5000 maps agree sufficiently with on site distance measurements to be used as input to magnetic field calculations in epidemiological studies. The analysis were performed by use of weighted kappa (κw) statistical method described by Bland and Altman for comparison of measures of agreement. Map measurements showed better agreement with on site measurements than GIS calculations did. However, we consider both methods appropriate for use in larger epidemiological studies if the results are interpreted with caution. GIS calculations have the advantage of being both time and cost saving. Bioelectromagnetics 23:288–291, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Decreased DNA repair rates and protection from heat induced apoptosis mediated by electromagnetic field exposure
Authors: Robison Jacob G. , Pendleton Amanda R. , Monson Kirk O. , Murray Byron K. , O'Neill Kim L.
Published: August 2002

In this study, we demonstrate that electromagnetic field (EMF) exposure results in protection from heat induced apoptosis in human cancer cell lines in a time dependent manner. Apoptosis protection was determined by growing HL‐60, HL‐60R, and Raji cell lines in a 0.15 mT 60 Hz sinusoidal EMF for time periods between 4 and 24 h. After induction of apoptosis, cells were analyzed by the neutral comet assay to determine the percentage of apoptotic cells. To discover the duration of this protection, cells were grown in the EMF for 24 h and then removed for 24 to 48 h before heat shock and neutral comet assays were performed. Our results demonstrate that EMF exposure offers significant protection from apoptosis (P<.0001 for HL‐60 and HL‐60R,P<.005 for Raji) after 12 h of exposure and that protection can last up to 48 h after removal from the EMF. In this study we further demonstrate the effect of the EMF on DNA repair rates. DNA repair data were gathered by exposing the same cell lines to the EMF for 24 h before damaging the exposed cells and non‐exposed cells with H2O2. Cells were allowed to repair for time periods between 0 and 15 min before analysis using the alkaline comet assay. Results showed that EMF exposure significantly decreased DNA repair rates in HL‐60 and HL‐60R cell lines (P<.001 andP<.01 respectively), but not in the Raji cell line. Importantly, our apoptosis results show that a minimal time exposure to an EMF is needed before observed effects. This may explain previous studies showing no change in apoptosis susceptibility and repair rates when treatments and EMF exposure were administered concurrently. More research is necessary, however, before data from this in vitro study can be applied to in vivo systems. Bioelectromagnetics 23:106–112, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Nonlinear dynamical law governs magnetic field induced changes in lymphoid phenotype
Authors: Marino Andrew A. , Wolcott R. Michael , Chervenak Robert , Jourd'heuil Frances , Nilsen Erik , Frilot Clifton
Published: August 2002

The results of many different types of animal and human studies dealing with the biological effects of exposure to low frequency electromagnetic fields (EMFs) have consistently been both positive and negative. We addressed the question of why this pattern had occurred so commonly in biological studies involving exposure to EMFs and hypothesized that it stemmed from the prevalent use of a linear model to characterize what are inherently nonlinear input–output relationships. The hypothesis was tested by analyzing biological data using a novel statistical procedure that could be adjusted to detect either nonlinear or linear effects. The reliability of the procedure was established using positive and negative controls and by comparison with the results obtained from sampling a known nonlinear system. In four independent experiments, male and female mice were exposed continuously to 0.1 or 0.5 mT, 60 Hz, for 175 days, and the effect on 20 immune parameters was measured using flow cytometry and functional assays. In each experiment, EMF exposure resulted in statistically significant changes in lymphoid phenotype when and only when the response of the animals to the fields was analyzed as if it were governed by nonlinear laws. Our results suggest that the pattern of inconsistency in the EMF bioeffects studies is an artifact resulting from an incorrect choice of the conceptual model for the relation between the field and the biological effect it causally determines. Bioelectromagnetics 22:529–546, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.