bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Testing conditional independence in diagnostic palaeoepidemiology
Authors: Boldsen Jesper L.
Published: May 2005

Leprosy was a well‐known and dreaded disease in the Middle Ages. A substantial fraction of the adult population carried leprosy‐related lesions. Previous research analyzed the occurrence and implications of seven such lesions in samples of medieval skeletons. These analyses were carried out under the assumption of conditional independence among lesion scores. The present paper examines this assumption by developing a test based on the odds ratios and applying the test to three rural medieval samples from Europe: Tirup from the 12th–14th century AD in Jutland, Denmark; Refshale from the 12th–14th century AD on the island of Lolland, Denmark; and Lauchheim from AD 460–680 in southern Germany. Signs of nonzero prevalence of leprosy at death were found in all three samples: Tirup, 25.5% (95% CI, 17.2–34.6%); Refshale, 39.1% (95% CI, 25.5–54.7%); and Lauchheim, 16.2% (95% CI, 10.0–22.9%). It is shown that when leprosy is the prime factor creating variation in the lesion scores in and between samples, the assumption of conditional independence cannot be rejected. Am J Phys Anthropol, 2005. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Preparation and properties of nano‐montmorillonite paper–plastic laminating adhesive
Authors: Ye Lunxue , Zhong Anyong , Chen Deben , Yang Fei
Published: May 2005

Emulsion paper–plastic nanometer laminating adhesive of 1.5% organic montmorillonite (OMMT) was prepared by OMMT intercalating polyacrylate‐system materials. In this article, it was discovered that nanometer‐laminating adhesive has better adhesion, smaller latex particles size, lower surface tension, and higher drying speed than general laminating adhesive. The rheologic behavior of the emulsion was discussed and it was shown that the value of n (the flow index of emulsion) was reduced and viscous flow activation energy (Ea) was increased. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 97: 872–877, 2005
Synthesis of photoisomeric azobenzene monomers and model compound effect on electric–optical properties in PDLC films
Authors: Liu Jui‐Hsiang , Wu Fuh‐Tsang
Published: May 2005

A series of azobenzene monomers and related model compounds with various side‐chain lengths were synthesized. The electrooptical properties of a polymer‐dispersed liquid crystal (PDLC) were verified by side‐chain methoxy azobenzene in various chain lengths (n = 3, 6, 11). The properties under various voltages were measured and the effect of extra voltage on the transmittance of PDLC was researched as well. The experiment demonstrated the validity of employing these side chain methoxy azobenzene materials in electrooptical devices. The azobenzene model compound showed better electric–optical and thermal–optical properties, having a higher contrast ratio (CR = 689) and a lower saturation voltage (4.7 V/μm). All the azobenzene molecules can be photoisomerized through UV light irradiation, following the mechanism of isomerization. The reversible photo and heat isomerization property was studied. The cis‐azobenzene that was transformed from the trans‐azobenzene irradiated by UV light can decrease the clearing point of the liquid crystal phase. We used this unique characteristic to record image patterns and it worked successfully. We synthesized the azobenzene monomers can stabilize the PDLC and their relative model compounds with various alkyl chain lengths even got better electric–optical effects. We found that azobenzene monomer shows different behaviors in the electric–optical property from its relative model compound. The difference between the systems were explained using a proposed model. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 97: 721–732, 2005
Ester and epoxide functionalization of high‐density polyethylene by thermolysis method—An FTIR study
Authors: Anbarasan R. , Babout O. , Dequil M. , Maillard B.
Published: May 2005

High‐density polyethylene was functionalized using a thermolysis method in the presence of functionalized peroxides at different temperatures and at various peroxide concentrations. It was found that both percentage cross‐linking (% CL) and percentage functionalization (% Fn) increased with an increase in peroxide concentration. The ester and epoxide functionalization was confirmed by FTIR spectroscopy. Ester functionalization was further confirmed by saponification and acidolysis reaction. The functionalization capacities of acrylic ester peroxide and acrylic acid peroxide were determined and compared. A plausible reaction mechanism has been proposed to explain the experimental results obtained. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 97: 761–765, 2005
Surface stability of polypropylene compounds and paint adhesion
Authors: Ernst E. , Reußner J. , Poelt P. , Ingolic E.
Published: May 2005

Thermoplastic olefins based on polypropylene compounds are being increasingly used for the production of painted automotive parts. The poor adhesion properties of these compounds are improved with flaming, which results in good adhesion for waterborne paints. The surface stability and adhesion properties of two commercial injection‐molded compounds and their base polymer blends (polypropylene/ethylene–propylene rubber) were investigated after they were flamed with various parameters under typical vapor jet conditions. The compounds and the corresponding base blends showed mainly the same behavior. Thus, filler particles and additives seemed to have only a minor influence on the adhesion properties of these compounds. For the characterization of the surface itself and the near‐surface region, scanning and transmission electron microscopy, XPS, and microthermal analysis were used. The utmost surface layer for all specimens consisted of a skin of pure polypropylene. The oxygen concentrations at the surface after flaming were rather similar for both compounds. Differences could be found in the surface roughness, the oxygen diffusion from the interior to the surface, and, probably most importantly, the viscosity and elasticity of the impact modifier. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 97: 797–805, 2005
Infrared spectroscopy method reveals hydrogen bonding and intermolecular interaction between components in polymer blends
Authors: Gordon S. H. , Cao X. , Mohamed A. , Willett J. L.
Published: May 2005

An infrared spectroscopy method was devised to uncover evidence of hydrogen bonding and intermolecular interaction between components in solid poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and poly(hydroxyester ether) (PHEE) blends. The method compares Gaussian/Lorentzian deconvoluted infrared spectra of the polymer blends with deconvoluted spectra of weight ratio‐equivalent mixtures of the physically separated polymers. Infrared spectra of polymer blends, where hydrogen bonding exists, differ from spectra of physical mixtures of the polymers. Deconvoluting spectra of the blends into their underlying peaks revealed theoretically expected differences between hydrogen‐bonded and nonhydrogen bonded components. The findings are supported by differential scanning calorimetry, scanning electron microscopy, and mechanical rheometry studies. The new method, differential spectral deconvolution, afforded a quantitative estimate of the extent of hydrogen bonding between PLA and PHEE and could therefore be used to measure the degree of interaction between components in thermoplastic blends. This technique is superior to conventional spectral subtraction and it should be applicable to intimate mixtures or solid solutions in general. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 97: 813–821, 2005
Mechanical properties of linseed oil monoglyceride maleate/styrene copolymers
Authors: Mosiewicki M. , Aranguren M. I. , Borrajo J.
Published: May 2005

In this study, rigid thermoset polymers were prepared from radical copolymerization of linseed oil monoglyceride maleates with styrene (St). First, linseed oil monoglycerides (LOMGs) were obtained from the reaction of linseed oil with glycerol at 220–240°C. Then, LOMGs were reacted with maleic anhydride at 80°C to produce the LOMG maleate half esters. The reactions were followed by FTIR spectroscopy and size exclusion chromatography (SEC) and the final resin was characterized by 1H‐NMR spectroscopy. Finally, radical copolymerization of the LOMG maleates with 20, 40, 60, and 80% by weight of St was performed to produce rigid, thermoset polymers. The thermomechanical properties and fracture behavior of the cured copolymers, as a function of the percentage of St, were measured and analyzed. The copolymer with 40% by weight of St was the material with better mechanical and fracture behavior. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 97: 825–836, 2005
Curing of epoxy siloxane monomer with anhydride
Authors: Morita Yasumasa
Published: May 2005

Epoxy siloxane monomer, 1,3‐Bis[2‐(3‐{7‐oxabicyclo[4.1.0]heptyl})ethyl]‐tetramethyldisiloxane, was cured with methylhexahydrophthalic anhydride, and the catalysts, N,N‐dimethylbenzylamine (BDMA) and tetra‐n‐butylphosphonium o,o‐diethylphosphorodithioate (PX‐4ET), were compared. The curing reactivity of BDMA was higher than that of PX‐4ET, but the thermal stability of the polymer was lower. PX‐4ET caused less thermal discoloration, which increased in proportion to catalyst concentration. The optimum was 0.71–0.35 mol %. Maximum hardness and glass transition temperature as well as minimum coefficient of thermal expansion and thermal discoloration was achieved with equivalent amounts of epoxy and anhydride. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 97: 946–951, 2005
A new set of amino acid descriptors and its application in peptide QSARs
Authors: Mei Hu , Liao Zhi H. , Zhou Yuan , Li Shengshi Z.
Published: May 2005

In this work, a new set of amino acid descriptors, i.e., VHSE (principal components score Vectors of Hydrophobic, Steric, and Electronic properties), is derived from principal components analysis (PCA) on independent families of 18 hydrophobic properties, 17 steric properties, and 15 electronic properties, respectively, which are included in total 50 physicochemical variables of 20 coded amino acids. Using the stepwise multiple regression (SMR) method combined with partial least squares (PLS), the VHSE scales are then applied to QSAR studies of bitter‐tasting dipeptides (BTD), angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, and bradykinin‐potentiating pentapeptides (BPP). To validate the predictive power of resulting models, external validation are also performed. A comparison of the results to those obtained with z scores and other two‐dimensional (2D) or three‐dimensional(3D) descriptors shows that the VHSE scales are comparable for parameterizing the structural variability of the peptide series. ©2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopoly 80: 775–786, 2005

This article was originally published online as an accepted preprint. The “Published Online” date corresponds to the preprint version. You can request a copy of the preprint by emailing the Biopolymers editorial office at biopolymers@wiley.com
Use of microelectrodes to investigate the effects of 2‐chlorophenol on microbial activities in biofilms
Authors: Satoh Hisashi , Sasaki Yuichi , Nakamura Yoshiyuki , Okabe Satoshi , Suzuki Takuya
Published: May 2005

In order to assess the applicability of using microelectrodes as a tool for inhibition tests, temporal and spatial inhibitory effects of 2‐chlorophenol (2‐CP) on O2 respiration and nitrification activities in municipal wastewater biofilms were investigated using microelectrodes for O2 and NH. The time‐course microelectrode measurements demonstrated that 2‐CP inhibited O2 respiration and nitrification activities within 6–18 min. The microbial activities were inhibited only in the upper 400 μm of the biofilms by 2‐CP, and the bacteria present in the deeper parts of the biofilms were still active, probably due to limited penetration of 2‐CP. These results could reasonably explain the difference in inhibitory ratios of the O2 respiration and nitrification activities in the biofilms. O2 respiration activity was incompletely inhibited, which was attributed to the presence of O2 respiration activities in the deeper parts of the biofilm. In contrast, nitrification activity was significantly inhibited because ammonia‐oxidizing bacteria were present in the upper parts of the biofilm. These results indicate that the microelectrodes with a very quick response time and a high spatial resolution are useful tools to study temporal and spatial inhibitory effects of inhibitors on in situ microbial activities in biofilms. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Regulation of cell adhesion using a signal‐responsive membrane substrate
Authors: Okajima Shuhei , Yamaguchi Takeo , Sakai Yasuyuki , Nakao Shin‐ichi
Published: May 2005

We have developed a novel cell culture material that regulates cell adhesion by changes in potassium ion concentration. The material is a polyethylene substrate grafted to a copolymer of the thermoresponsive polymer N‐isopropylacrylamide (NIPAM) and benzo‐18‐crown‐ 6‐acrylamide (BCAm), with a pendant crown ether as sensor. The crown ether recognizes potassium ion concentrations and NIPAM conformational changes lead to changes in the hydrophobicity/hydrophilicity balance of the entire polymer at constant cell culture temperatures. Although cells were successfully cultured on the ion recognition material in normal culture medium at 37°C, the cells could be detached from the material surface by adding potassium ions alone, without proteolytic enzymes, because the surface to which the cells were attached altered its surface characteristics to a more hydrophilic state. Therefore, cell layers with intact cell‐to‐cell junctions and high activities were successfully recovered. Furthermore, by changing the target sensors, this material will be able to control cell adhesion through various cellular signals. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Issues concerning visibility and reassurance provided by the new ‘policing family’
Authors: Cooke Claire Ann
Published: May 2005

In recent years there has been a rapid growth in quasi‐policing organizations throughout England and Wales. Public awareness and understanding of their roles and functions within the community has not been explored. While the community's desire for a uniformed presence on the streets remains strong, practical implementation through traditional public policing appears to grow more difficult. In order to satisfy this demand, the government has developed the concept of a ‘policing family’ made up of both traditional and new policing agencies. These agencies are public, private, and hybrid in nature and organization. There has been relatively little attempt to inform the public of these new arrangements or to ensure that these officers can be readily recognized. How these agencies are visually represented, how they interact with the community, and with each other, raises many issues and implications for the future success of community policing. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Angiographic predictors of femoral access site complications: Implication for planned percutaneous coronary intervention
Authors: Sherev Dimitri A. , Shaw Richard E. , Brent, Bruce N.
Published: May 2005

This study examined the relationship between the femoral arteriotomy location and the risk of femoral access site complications after diagnostic and interventional cardiac catheterization procedures. One of the most common complication of cardiac catheterization and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) involves the vascular access site. The femoral approach is the most frequent site of vascular access during invasive cardiac procedures. This approach is associated with vascular complications, such as retroperitoneal bleeding, which can be life‐threatening. If angiographic predictors of retroperitoneal bleeding can be identified, this complication could be avoided. A prospective cohort of 33 patients with femoral access site complications was subgrouped based on the angiographic arteriotomy site. Concurrent patients without complications were randomly selected to form a control group. Study and control patients were compared on presenting risk factors and outcomes. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify independent predictors for femoral access site complications. Arteriotomy location above the most inferior border of the inferior epigastric artery in patients undergoing PCI was associated with 100% of all retroperitoneal bleeds (P < 0.001). Low, high middle, and high femoral arteriotomy sites were associated with 71% of all vascular access complications. The combination of these locations for the femoral arteriotomy was an independent predictor of adverse vascular access site complications beyond traditional risk factors (odds ratio = 28.7; CI = 6.73–122.40; P < 0.0001). Vascular complications occurred more frequently in patients who were of older age (72 vs. 66 years; P < 0.001). The location of the femoral arteriotomy site assessed by a femoral angiogram is predictive of life‐threatening complications. Patients undergoing PCI with an arteriotomy above the most inferior border of the inferior epigastric artery are at an increased risk for retroperitoneal bleeding. This complication may be avoided by risk‐stratifying patients prior to intervention with a femoral angiogram. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Stereoselective Functionalization of 2‐(1‐Aminoalkyl)aziridines via Lithiation of Aziridine–Borane Complexes
Authors: Concellón José M. , Bernad Pablo L. , Suárez José Ramón
Published: May 2005

Highly selective functionalization of the aziridine ring of (2S,1′S)‐2‐(1′‐aminoalkyl)aziridines 1, through successive formation of aziridine–borane complexes, lithiation, treatment with a variety of electrophiles and final decomplexation is described. The influence of the structure of the starting complexes 2 and of the electrophiles in the stereoselectivity of this process has been studied. Finally, successive double lithiation–electrophile reactions were carried out affording enantiopure 1,2,3,3‐tetrasubstituted aziridine–borane complexes with high selectivity.
Electronic Coupling in Mixed‐Valence Dinuclear Ferrocenes and Cobaltocenes with Saturated Bridging Groups
Authors: Jones Simon C. , Barlow Stephen , O'Hare Dermot
Published: May 2005

We have synthesised a series of new dinuclear metallocenes [{M(Cp*)(C5H4)}2X] (Cp*=η5‐pentamethylcyclopentadienyl; M=Fe, Co, X=CMe2, SiMe2, GeMe2; M=Fe, X=Si2Me4). For the neutral dicobalt complexes, magnetic susceptibility measurements reveal intramolecular antiferromagnetic interactions of −21 and −14 cm−1 for SiMe2‐ and GeMe2‐bridged species, respectively, but negligible interaction for the CMe2‐bridged compound. In contrast, intervalence charge‐transfer (IVCT) data for the mixed‐valence monocations of both Fe and Co complexes show electronic coupling to decrease in the order CMe2>SiMe2>GeMe2. This suggests that electronic coupling is principally through‐space in contrast to results found from previous studies. The IVCT data also show much stronger coupling in the dicobalt species versus their diiron analogues.
Increasing incidence of type 1 diabetes in population from Santiago of Chile: trends in a period of 18 years (1986–2003)
Authors: Carrasco E. , Pérez‐Bravo F. , Dorman J. , Mondragón A. , Santos J. L.
Published: May 2005

Study objective and setting

The aim of this study is to determine the incidence rate of type 1 diabetes in the metropolitan region of Santiago, Chile from 1 January 1986 to 31 December 2003.

Design

Population‐based incidence study. Participants: A case must fulfill the following requirements to be included in this study: age at onset: 0 to 14 years, diagnosed with diabetes and placed on insulin, diagnosed within the defined time period, and to be a resident of the metropolitan region of Santiago at the time of the diagnosis. The population ‘at risk’ is the population less than 15 years of age.

Result

The overall rate of type 1 diabetes was estimated as 4.02 cases per 100 000 children per year (95% confidence interval: 2.98–4.83).

Conclusion

The incidence of type 1 diabetes in Santiago, Chile has increased during the last years. This data are concordant with the observation that the incidence of type 1 diabetes is increasing in Latin America and worldwide. Copyright © 2005 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Opposing roles of two isoforms of the Prx1 homeobox gene in chondrogenesis
Authors: Peterson Richard E. , Hoffman Stanley , Kern Michael J.
Published: May 2005

The Prx1 homeobox gene is critical for cartilage and bone development as suggested by previous expression studies and demonstrated by gene targeting. However, neither approach assessed the individual roles of the two isoforms Prx1a and Prx1b. In this study, Western blot analysis demonstrates that, in the early stages of chondrogenesis, during mesenchymal condensation, only Prx1a is expressed. Higher level Prx1b expression is concomitant with the formation of a defined perichondrium. Prx1a overexpression in limb micro mass cultures results in an increase in the number of prechondrogenic condensations and cartilage nodules, whereas overexpression of Prx1b results in a decrease. Prx1a increases the percentage of proliferating cells in micro mass cultures and decreases apoptosis. The Prx1b isoform does not alter proliferation, but it does increase apoptosis, which is opposite of Prx1a. These results suggest that the Prx1a:Prx1b ratio and the alternative splicing mechanism that generates these two isoforms are critical in controlling chondrogenesis. Developmental Dynamics 233:811–821, 2005. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Nephrin expression and three‐dimensional morphogenesis of the Xenopus pronephric glomus
Authors: Gerth Victor E. , Zhou Xiaolan , Vize Peter D.
Published: May 2005

Nephrin (NHPS1) encodes a transmembrane protein of approximately 1,200 amino acids that plays a critical role in podocyte slit‐diaphragm formation and the development of functional mammalian glomerular filtration barriers. In humans and mice with congenital defects in the nephrin gene, the glomerular filtration barrier is defective and protein leakage into the kidney filtrate causes a life‐threatening proteinuria. This protein also plays an essential role in the formation of the stellate cells of the Drosophila Malpighian tubules. In this report, the sequence and expression of a Xenopus ortholog of nephrin is described using both conventional and novel three‐dimensional (3D) visualization methodologies. Xenopus nephrin encodes a protein of 1,238 amino acids and is expressed at high levels in the forming pronephric kidney glomus, the equivalent of the mammalian glomerulus. Expression commences at stage 25 and is specific to the pronephric glomus up until at least tadpole feeding stages. Two‐color fluorescent whole‐mount in situ analysis of nephrin expression allowed the 3D shape of the glomus to be imaged and contrasted to the pronephric tubules throughout its morphogenesis. Confocal data processing pipelines were established to generate both volumetric and surface models of the developing pronephros, and a Web‐based visualization system was used to generate dynamic and manipulable models of the forming nephric organs. This system allows simple on‐line morphometric analysis of the developing pronephric components. As in fish embryos, the glomera first form laterally then migrate medially as the pronephros matures. Unlike in the zebrafish, in Xenopus, this migration stops short of complete fusion of the two glomera at the midline, but a nephrin‐positive glomeral nexus does form anteriorly and links the two structures from stage 38 onward. Developmental Dynamics 233:1131–1139, 2005. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Basement membrane composition in the early mouse embryo day 7
Authors: Gersdorff Nikolaus , Müller Matthias , Otto Sascha , Poschadel Ralf , Hübner Stephan , Miosge Nicolai
Published: May 2005

Basement membranes (BM) are specialized structures of the extracellular matrix known to be involved in various early developmental processes. Despite numerous investigations on the localization of BM components, it remains unknown which molecules are expressed in early developmental stages and by which germ layers these proteins are produced. Therefore, we tested for all known laminin chains, nidogens, collagen type IV, and perlecan by means of light microscopic immunostaining and performed in situ reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction to detect the mRNAs specific for laminin α1, laminin β1, the α1 chain of collagen type IV, nidogen‐2, and perlecan in the early mouse embryo, day 7, in vivo. Only the laminin chains α1, β1, and γ1 were detected immunohistochemically throughout the entire endodermal and ectodermal BM zones of the embryo proper. The mRNA of laminin α1, laminin β1, collagen type IV, nidogen‐2 and perlecan were expressed in the ectoderm‐derived mesoderm, in the endoderm as well as in the ectoderm. In contrast, Reichert's membrane was positive for all laminin chains except for the α4, α5, β3, and γ3 chains. Moreover, maternal epithelial as well as mesenchymal cells expressed laminins, nidogen‐1 and nidogen‐2, collagen type IV, and perlecan. In conclusion, laminin‐1 might be the only laminin isoform in the early mouse embryo that, together with the other main BM components, nidogens, collagen type IV, and perlecan, is synthesized by all three germ layers. Developmental Dynamics 233:1140–1148, 2005. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Developmental regulation and expression of the zebrafish connexin43 gene
Authors: Chatterjee Bishwanath , Chin Alvin J. , Valdimarsson Gunnar , Finis Carla , Sonntag Jennifer M. , Choi Bo Yon , Tao Liang , Balasubramanian Krithika , Bell Carolyn , Krufka Alison , Kozlowski David J. , Johnson Ross G. , Lo Cecilia W.
Published: May 2005

We cloned and sequenced the zebrafish (Danio rerio) connexin43 (Cx43α1) gene. The predicted protein sequence shows a high degree of sequence conservation. Transcript analyses revealed multiple transcription start sites and a potential alternative transcript encoding a N‐terminally truncated Cx43α1 protein. Maternal Cx43α1 transcripts were detected, with zygotic expression initiated before gastrulation. In situ hybridization revealed many Cx43α1 expression domains, including the notochord and brain, heart and vasculature, many resembling patterns seen in mammalian embryos. Of interest, a reporter construct under control of the mouse Cx43α1 promoter was observed to drive green fluorescent protein expression in zebrafish embryos in domains mimicking the native Cx43α1 expression pattern in fish and mice. Sequence comparison between the mouse and zebrafish Cx43α1 promoter sequences showed the conservation of several transcription factor motifs, which otherwise shared little overall sequence homology. The conservation of protein sequence and developmental gene regulation would suggest that Cx43α1 gap junctions are likely to have conserved roles in vertebrate embryonic development. Developmental Dynamics 233:890–906, 2005. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Thg‐1pit gene expression in granule cells of the developing mouse brain and in their synaptic targets, mature Purkinje, and mitral cells
Authors: Canterini Sonia , Mangia Franco , Fiorenza Maria Teresa
Published: May 2005

We have studied the expression of Thg‐1pit in developing and adult mouse brain by in situ hybridization analysis. We show that, at day 12.5 of embryo development, Thg‐1pit expression is restricted to the rhombic lip, subventricular neuroepithelium/mantle zone, and lateral ganglionic eminence, namely the embryonic brain areas where granule cell precursors originate. Thereafter, Thg‐1pit expression landmarks both differentiative steps and the mature function of granule/interneuron cells in several brain districts, including cerebellum, basal forebrain, olfactory bulb, and hippocampus. In the adult, Thg‐1pit becomes also activated in mitral cells of olfactory bulb and in Purkinje cells of cerebellum, in concomitance with full development of the synaptic contacts that Purkinje and mitral cells establish with granule cells. We conclude that Thg‐1pit is relevant to specification, proliferation/migration, differentiation, and mature function of granule/interneuron cells in different brain districts, as well as to the function of mature, but not immature, Purkinje cells and mitral cells. Developmental Dynamics 234:689–697, 2005. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Poly(ADP‐ribose)polymerase activity is reduced in circulating mononuclear cells from type 2 diabetic patients
Authors: Tempera Italo , Cipriani Rosalba , Campagna Gianluca , Mancini Patrizia , Gatti Alessandra , Guidobaldi Leo , Pantellini Federico , Mandosi Elisabetta , Sensi Maurizio , Quesada Piera , Mario Umberto Di , D'Erme Maria , Morano Susanna
Published: May 2005

Poly(ADP‐ribose)polymerase (PARP‐1), a nuclear enzyme activated by DNA strand breaks, is involved in DNA repair, aging, inflammation, and neoplastic transformation. In diabetes, reactive oxygen and nitrogen species occurring in response to hyperglycemia cause DNA damages and PARP‐1 activation. Because circulating mononuclear cells (MNCs) are involved in inflammation mechanisms, these cells were chosen as the experimental model to evaluate PARP‐1 levels and activity in patients with type 2 diabetes. MNCs were isolated from 25 diabetic patients (18 M, 7 F, age, 63.5 ± 10.2 years, disease duration 17.7 ± 8.2 years) and 11 age and sex matched healthy controls. PARP‐1 expression and activity were analyzed by semi‐quantitative PCR, Western and activity blot, and immunofluorescence microscopy. PARP‐1‐mRNA expression was increased in MNCs from all diabetic patients versus controls (P < 0.01), whereas PARP‐1 content and activity were significantly lower in diabetic patients (P < 0.0001). To verify whether low PARP‐1 levels and activity were due to a proteolytic effect of caspase‐3 like, the latter activation was measured by a fluorimetric assay. Caspase‐3 activity in MNCs was significantly higher in diabetic patients versus control subjects (P < 0.0001). The different PARP‐1 behavior in MNCs from patients with type 2 diabetes could therefore be responsible for the abnormal inflammation and infection responses in diabetes. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
GABA receptors and nitric oxide ameliorate constrictive collagen remodeling in hyperhomocysteinemia
Authors: Shastry Suresh , Moning LaQuita , Tyagi Neetu , Steed Mesia , Tyagi Suresh C.
Published: May 2005

Elevated plasma levels of homocysteine (Hcy) are associated with vascular dementias and Alzheimer's disease. The role of Hcy in brain microvascular endothelial cell (MVEC) remodeling is unclear. Hcy competes with muscimol, an γ‐amino butyric acid (GABA)‐A receptor agonist. GABA is the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain. Our hypothesis is that Hcy induces constrictive microvascular remodeling by altering GABA‐A/B receptors. MVEC from wild type, matrix metalloproteinase‐9 (MMP‐9) knockout (−/−), heterozygote cystathionine β synthase (CBS−/+), and endothelial nitric oxide synthase knockout (eNOS−/−) mouse brains were isolated. The MVEC were incorporated into collagen (3.2 mg/ml) gels and the decrease in collagen gel diameter at 24 h was used as an index of constrictive MVEC remodeling. Gels in the absence or presence of Hcy were incubated with muscimol or baclofen, a GABA‐B receptor agonist. The results suggested that Hcy‐mediated MVEC collagen gel constriction was ameliorated by muscimol, baclofen, MMP‐9, and eNOS gene ablations. There was no effect of anti‐alpha 3 integrin. However, Hcy‐mediated brain MVEC collagen constriction was abrogated with anti‐beta‐1 integrin. The co‐incubation of Hcy with L‐arginine ameliorated the Hcy‐mediated collagen gel constriction. The results of this study indicated amelioration of Hcy‐induced MVEC collagen gel constriction by induction of nitric oxide through GABA‐A and ‐B receptors. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Biologic and clinical variations of adenocarcinoma at the esophago–gastric junction: Relevance of a topographic‐anatomic subclassification
Authors: Siewert J. Rüdiger , Feith Marcus , Stein Hubert J.
Published: May 2005

A topographic‐anatomic subclassification of adenocarcinomas of the esophago–gastric junction (AEG) in distal esophageal adenocarcinoma (AEG Type I), true carcinoma of the cardia (AEG Type II), and subcardial gastric cancer (AEG Type III) was introduced in 1987 and is now increasingly accepted and used worldwide. Our experience with now more than 1,300 resected AEG tumors indicates that the subtypes differ markedly in terms of surgical epidemiology, histogenesis and histomorphologic tumor characteristics. While underlying specialized intestinal metaplasia can be found in basically all patients with AEG Type I tumors, this is uncommon in Type II tumors and virtually absent in Type III tumors. Stage distribution and overall long‐term survival after surgical resection also shows marked differences between the AEG subtypes. Surgical treatment strategies based on tumor type allow a differentiated approach and result in survival rates superior to those reported with other approaches. The subclassification of AEG tumors thus provides a useful tool for the selection of the surgical procedure and allows a better comparison of treatment results. J. Surg. Oncol. 2005;90:139–146. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Kinetic Parameters of Urease Immobilized on Modified Acrylonitrile Copolymer Membranes in the Presence and Absence of Cu(II) Ions
Authors: Godjevargova Tzonka , Gabrovska Katya
Published: May 2005

Summary: Poly(acrylonitrile‐methylmethacrylate‐sodium vinylsulfonate) membranes were subjected to seven different chemical modifications and the amount of the newly formed groups was measured for each membrane. Urease was then covalently immobilized onto the modified membranes and the amount of bound protein was determined. The kinetic parameters Vmax and Km of the immobilized urease were studied under static and dynamic conditions. Results showed that the rate of the enzyme reaction was higher for the membranes modified with NH2OH · H2SO4, NH2NH2 · H2SO4, NaOH + EDA and NaOH + GA + EDA. It was confirmed that the reaction rate, measured under dynamic conditions, was higher than that one determined under static conditions. The influence of Cu(II) ions, as inhibitors, on the enzyme reaction kinetics (Vi and Ki) was also investigated. It turned out that the most sensitive membranes towards Cu(II) were those modified with NH2NH2 · H2SO4, NaOH + EDA and H2O2. The results initiated further investigations on the influence of other heavy metal ions (Cd(II), Zn(II), Ni(II) and Pb(II)) over urease bound to a NH2OH · H2SO4‐modified membrane. It was found that the inhibition effect of the heavy metal ions over immobilized urease decreases in the order: Cu(II) > Cd(II) > Zn(II) > Ni(II) > Pb(II).

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Lipopolymers from New 2‐Substituted‐2‐Oxazolines for Artificial Cell Membrane Constructs
Authors: Lüdtke Karin , Jordan Rainer , Hommes Peter , Nuyken Oskar , Naumann Christoph A.
Published: May 2005

Summary: We present the synthesis of novel 2‐oxazoline monomers with different 2‐substituents and their consecutive conversion into lipopolymers by living cationic polymerization. The side functions of these monomers were varied to realize different steric needs and hydrogen bonding interactions of the polymer side chains. 2‐(2′‐N‐pyrrolidonyl‐ethyl)‐2‐oxazoline, 2‐(3′‐methoxymonoethyleneglycol)propyl‐2‐oxazoline, and 2‐(3′‐methoxytriethyleneglycol)propyl‐2‐oxazoline were synthesized. All of the monomers could be converted into the corresponding lipopolymers by living cationic polymerization using 2,3‐di‐O‐octadecyl‐1‐trifluormethansulfonyl‐sn‐glycerol as the initiator. The characterization of the 2,3‐di‐O‐octadecyl‐glycerol‐poly(2‐oxazoline) lipopolymers by NMR spectroscopy, IR spectroscopy, and gel permeation chromatography revealed that the targeted molar masses and compositions can be controlled by the initial initiator/monomer ([M]0/[I]0) ratio for all the synthesized lipopolymers. The polydispersities were found to be narrow (polydispersity indices from 1.06–1.3). The amphiphilic lipopolymers were spread at the air‐water interface (Langmuir‐Blodgett film balance) and the effect of the polymer side groups and chain lengths upon the Π‐area (A) isotherms of the corresponding lipopolymer monolayers were compared and analyzed. The impact of the polymer side functionalities on a 2D gel formation was examined using an interfacial rheometer operated in an oscillating stress‐strain mode. Interestingly enough, none of the newly synthesized lipopolymers showed a rheological transition. This somewhat surprising result not only verified that these 2D gels are not established by hydrogen bonding among hydrophilic polymer moieties, as earlier proposed, but also supported the concept of jammed surface micelles as the more likely origin for the gelation phenomenon.

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Front Cover: Macromol. Biosci. 5/2005
Authors: Lüdtke Karin , Jordan Rainer , Hommes Peter , Nuyken Oskar , Naumann Christoph A.
Published: May 2005

Front Cover: Novel lipopolymers with side chain moieties of different sterical need and H‐bonding capability were created by cationic polymerization of 2‐oxazoline monomers (MeOx, EtOx, PyOx, MEGOx, TEGOx). The impact of these variations on the self‐assembly behavior of the amphiphilic lipopolymers at the air‐water interface is summarized in the cumulative plot (area per molecule vs. film pressure). Further details can be found in the Full Paper by K. Lüdtke, R. Jordan,* P. Hommes, O. Nuyken, and C. A. Naumann on page 384.
Glycopeptide and glycoprotein synthesis involving unprotected carbohydrate building blocks
Authors: Guo Zhongwu , Shao Ning
Published: May 2005

This review summarizes the chemical and chemoenzymatic synthesis of glycopeptides and glycoproteins using unprotected carbohydrates as key intermediates. The synthetic methods covered herein include the convergent synthesis of glycopeptides by chemoselective ligation of peptides and free glycans, solution‐ and solid‐phase synthesis of glycopeptides by sequential peptide elongation with unprotected glycosyl amino acids or short glycopeptides as building blocks, and the synthesis of glycopeptides by enzymatic and/or chemical elongation of the free glycans. The use of unprotected carbohydrates in these syntheses can circumvent the final‐stage carbohydrate deprotection, lead to highly convergent synthetic designs, and more significantly, take advantage of the commercially available free glycans isolated from nature, which could considerably facilitate the synthesis of complex glycopeptides and glycoproteins. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Molecular control of mitochondrial function in preimplantation mouse embryos
Authors: Thundathil Jacob , Filion France , Smith Lawrence C.
Published: May 2005

Mitochondria play a key role in a number of physiological events during all stages of life, including the very first stages following fertilization. It is, therefore, important to understand the mechanisms controlling mitochondrial activity during early embryogenesis to determine their role in development outcome. The objective of this study was to investigate the molecular control of mitochondrial transcription and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) replication in mouse preimplantation embryos. We estimated the mtDNA copy number and characterized the expression patterns of two mitochondrial genes and several nuclear genes that encode mitochondrial transcription and replication factors throughout preimplantation development. Mitochondrial gene transcripts were present in larger quantities in morula and blastocyst stage embryos relative to other stages. A significant increase in the amount of mRNA for nuclear genes encoding mtDNA transcription factors was observed in eight‐cell stage embryos. Although a similar increase in the mRNA levels of nuclear genes encoding mtDNA replication factors was observed in morula and blastocyst stage embryos, the number of mtDNA molecules remained stable during preimplantation stages, suggesting that nuclear‐encoded mitochondrial transcription factors are involved in the regulation of mtDNA transcription during early development. Although transcripts of replication factors are abundant at the morula and blastocyst stage, mtDNA replication did not occur until the blastocyst stage, suggesting that the inhibition of mtDNA replication is controlled at the post‐transcriptional level during early embryogenesis. Mol. Reprod. Dev. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Differential protein expression in anatomical zones of the prostate
Authors: Lexander Helena , Franzén Bo , Hirschberg Daniel , Becker Susanne , Hellström Magnus , Bergman Tomas , Jörnvall Hans , Auer Gert , Egevad Lars
Published: May 2005

The prostate has three anatomical zones: the peripheral (PZ), the transition (TZ), and the central (CZ) zone. It is proposed that the CZ may be of mesodermal origin, whereas the other two are of endodermal origin. Proteome patterns in the zones were characterized to test for differences. Cells were scraped from macroscopically normal areas of PZ, TZ, and CZ in radical prostatectomy specimens. After exclusion of samples with cancer or prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia, 18 cases remained for analysis. Cells were collected in a medium with protease inhibitors, and the protein material was prepared for two‐dimensional gel electrophoresis. The proteins in spots that differed quantitatively between regions were identified via mass spectrometric fingerprinting of tryptic fragments and selected tandem mass spectrometry sequence analysis. Ten proteins with significant zonal differential expression were identified, eight with underexpression in the CZ versus the PZ and the TZ (arginase II, ATP synthase, cytokeratin 8, lamin A/C, peroxiredoxin 4, protein disulfide isomerase A3, tropomyosin, and vimentin), and two with overexpression in the CZ (peroxiredoxin 2 and creatine kinase B). The PZ and TZ, although differing in terms of incidence of cancer and hyperplasia, have epithelium with highly similar major protein expression profiles. However, the protein profile of the CZ differs from that of the other regions, suggesting functional differences.
Excess ZnO addition in PZN–PLZT ceramics
Authors: Zeng X. , Ding A. L. , Liu T. , Deng G. C. , Zheng X. S.
Published: May 2005

0.3PZN–0.7PLZT (5/55/45) ceramics with and without nonstoichiometric excess ZnO addition were prepared by a conventional mixing method. The phase structure, microstructure, and dielectric and piezoelectric properties were investigated. Improvements of performances were observed. Excess ZnO could limit the formation of pyrochlore phase and enhance the electrical properties and the degree of the diffuse phase transition. (© 2005 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Porous silicon matrix for chemical synthesis and chromatograpy
Authors: Lehmann V.
Published: May 2005

This paper reports the fabrication of a porous silicon matrix with two narrow pore size regimes: an ordered array of macropores and a network of mesopores within the walls of each macropore. Both types of pores are well defined in their length and show a narrow pore diameter distribution, but the difference in pore diameter between the two types may be as large as 103. By free choice of the dimensions for each size regime this material can be tailor‐made according to its specific application; for example as stationary phase in chromatograpy or as immobilisation and reaction site for chemical or biochemical synthesis. (© 2005 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Fast pore etching
Authors: Frey S. , Kemell M. , Carstensen J. , Langa S. , Föll H.
Published: May 2005

The growth of silicon macropores under high current densities and high HF concentrations is studied. A new growth mode for porous Si has been found where pores resemble the so‐called current line oriented pores previously discovered in InP. For the achievement of that the electrolyte had to be optimized in respect to the oxidation power of the electrolyte and its conductivity. All optimizations can be explained in the framework of the “Current‐Burst‐Model (CBM)”. The resulting pores show a strong self‐organization tendency as well as the tendency towards strong (also externally visible) oscillations. The growth speed could be driven up to almost 500 µm/h while still yielding pores whose roughness can easily compete with regular grown macropores. The pore diameters achieved span 50 to 3000 nm. (© 2005 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Thick macroporous membranes made of p‐type silicon
Authors: Zheng J. , Christophersen M. , Bergstrom P. L.
Published: May 2005

In the last decade, very thick macro porous silicon (PS) has been enjoying a growing popularity in a wide range of applications. There is also an increasing demand for thick macroporous membranes with through pores. In this work, we studied the optimal etch conditions with respect to stable pore growth and high etch rate for macro PS in p‐type silicon. A single‐step etching process has been developed to tackle the problem of uniform membrane formation. Very thick (>500 µm) through‐wafer macroporous membranes on p‐type silicon with variable pore sizes and growth rates up to 0.95 µm/min have been successfully demonstrated. (© 2005 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Defects in U3+:CaF2 single crystals grown under different conditions by the temperature gradient technique
Authors: Su Liangbi , Xu Jun , Yang Weiqiao , Jiang Xiongwei , Dong Yongjun , Zhao Guangjun , Zhou Guoqing
Published: May 2005

Defects in as‐grown U3+:CaF2 crystals grown with or without PbF2 as an oxygen scavenger were studied using Raman spectra, thermoluminescence glow curves, and additional absorption (AA) spectra induced by heating and γ‐irradiation. The effects of heating and irradiation on as‐grown U3+:CaF2 crystals are similar, accompanied by the elimination of H‐type centers and production of F‐type centers. U3+ is demonstrated to act as an electron donor in the CaF2 lattice, which is oxidized to the tetravalent form by thermal activation or γ‐irradiation. In the absence of PbF2 as an oxygen scavenger, the as‐grown U3+:CaF2 crystals contain many more lattice defects in terms of both quantity and type, due to the presence of O2– impurities. Some of these defects can recombine with each other in the process of heating and γ‐irradiation. (© 2005 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Phase correlations in the CuAlSe2–CuAlTe2 system
Authors: Korzun B. V. , Fadzeyeva A. A. , Bente K. , Schmitz W. , Kommichau G.
Published: May 2005

Alloys in the CuAlSe2–CuAlTe2 system were synthesized in BN‐crucibles in silica tubes under vacuum to obtain the corresponding phase equilibria. X‐ray powder diffraction and thermal analytic data of the T–x phase diagram revealed a complete solid solutions series in the subsolidus region. Within the CuAlSe2xTe2(1–x) system the refined lattice parameters a and c approximately obey the Vegard rule and also the cell volume and the heat of fusion confirm linear correlations with the composition of the mixed crystals. The anion position parameter calculated after S. C. Abrahams & J. L. Bernstein (uAB) and J. E Jaffe & A. Zunger (uJZ) is greater than 0.25 and reveals a linear dependence on composition. The liquidus part of the CuAlSe2xTe2(1–x) system with x < 0.35 exhibits vertical section behaviour with a ternary peritectic followed up by a ternary monotectic whereas the region with x > 0.35 shows quasibinary equilibria. (© 2005 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)