bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
BAG‐1 expression in human breast cancer: interrelationship between BAG‐1 RNA, protein, HSC70 expression and clinico‐pathological data
Authors: Townsend P. A. , Dublin E. , Hart I. R. , Kao R.‐H. , Hanby A. M. , Cutress R. I. , Poulsom R. , Ryder K. , Barnes D. M. , Packham G.
Published: October 2002

BAG‐1 (BCL‐2 athanogene‐1), a multifunctional protein which associates with steroid hormone receptors (including the oestrogen receptor) and the anti‐apoptotic BCL‐2 protein, regulates steroid hormone‐dependent transcription and apoptosis. Direct interaction with 70 kD heat‐shock proteins, HSC70 and HSP70, may mediate the diverse functions of BAG‐1. Immunohistochemistry was used to examine the expression of BAG‐1 and HSC70 in 160 cases of invasive breast cancer. BAG‐1 was expressed in 92% of cases; most tumours exhibited cytoplasmic BAG‐1, while a smaller proportion also had nuclear immunostaining. There was a significant inverse correlation between histological grade and nuclear BAG‐1 expression, with higher‐grade tumours tending to have reduced nuclear BAG‐1 expression, but there was no association with cytoplasmic BAG‐1. There was also no significant correlation between nuclear or cytoplasmic BAG‐1 expression and oestrogen receptor positivity. Since BAG‐1 may be influenced by hormonal background, the relationship between grade and oestrogen receptor was examined separately in pre‐menopausal and post‐menopausal women. The statistically significant correlation between nuclear BAG‐1 expression and low tumour grade was strong in pre‐menopausal, but not apparent in post‐menopausal women. A statistically significant correlation was observed between cytoplasmic, but not nuclear, BAG‐1 expression and oestrogen receptor status in pre‐menopausal, but not post‐menopausal, women. There was no correlation between BAG‐1 protein expression and RNA, suggesting that important post‐transcriptional mechanisms control BAG‐1 expression in vivo. HSC70 was also detected in the majority (97%) of cases, although expression was not correlated with BAG‐1 levels, oestrogen receptor status or tumour grade. Overall survival in cases with high levels of nuclear BAG‐1 expression was improved, though not significantly. These results are consistent with the hypothesis that BAG‐1 plays an important but variable role in breast cancers developing in pre‐menopausal and post‐menopausal women. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The glomerulo‐tubular junction: a target in renal diseases
Authors: Lindop G. B. M. , Gibson I. W. , Downie T. T. , Vass D. , Cohen E. P.
Published: October 2002

Both global and segmental glomerulopathies may damage specific areas of the renal glomerulus. Diseases associated with glomerular hyperperfusion cause lesions at the vascular pole, while diseases associated with proteinuria often damage the tubular pole. Atubular glomeruli are now known to be plentiful in a variety of common renal diseases. These glomeruli are disconnected from their tubule at the tubular pole and therefore cannot participate in the production of urine. It is widely believed that the disconnection is a result of external compression by periglomerular fibrosis. However, the variable anatomy and cell populations within both the glomerulus and the beginning of the proximal tubule at the glomerulo‐tubular junction may also have important roles to play in the response to damage at this sensitive site of the nephron. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Expression of the Duffy antigen/receptor for chemokines (DARC) by the inflamed synovial endothelium
Authors: Patterson Angela M. , Siddall Hilary , Chamberlain Giselle , Gardner Lucy , Middleton Jim
Published: October 2002

The expression of chemokine binding sites on the endothelial cells of venules in inflamed synovia was examined and whether the Duffy antigen/receptor for chemokines (DARC) was involved. Insitu binding assays were performed to determine the expression of chemokine binding sites from rheumatoid (n=10) and non‐rheumatoid (n=10) synovia. The expression of DARC protein and mRNA was examined by immunohistochemistry and northern blotting. The involvement of DARC in chemokine binding was studied by incubating sections with blocking antibodies to DARC (Fy3and 6), to find out if these reduced 125I‐IL‐8 binding. Binding of radiolabelled chemokines IL‐8, RANTES, MCP‐1, but not MIP‐1α, was found on venular endothelial cells in inflamed synovia from both rheumatoid and non‐rheumatoid patients. Excess homologous unlabelled chemokine displaced binding and excess unlabelled RANTES could displace radiolabelled IL‐8 binding. DARC protein expression was demonstrated on venular endothelial cells in all samples and DARC mRNA could be detected in extracts from synovia. There was downregulation of DARC protein and mRNA in rheumatoid samples. Binding of IL‐8 to both rheumatoid and non‐rheumatoid synovia was significantly reduced in the presence of anti‐DARC Fy3 and Fy6 monoclonal antibodies. These findings show the expression of a multispecific chemokine binding site on the inflamed synovial endothelium, with evidence for involvement of DARC. This suggests a potential role for DARC in the inflammatory processes involved in synovitis. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Nerve growth factor expression and innervation of the painful intervertebral disc
Authors: Freemont A. J. , Watkins A. , Le Maitre C. , Baird P. , Jeziorska M. , Knight M. T. N. , Ross E. R. S. , O'Brien J. P. , Hoyland J. A.
Published: October 2002

Following a previous description of nociceptive nerve fibre growth into usually aneural inner parts of painful intervertebral disc (IVD), this study has investigated whether nociceptive nerve ingrowth into painful IVD is stimulated by local production of neurotrophins. Immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization have been used to investigate expression of the candidate neurotrophin, nerve growth factor (NGF), and its high‐ and low‐affinity receptors trk‐A and p75, respectively, in painful IVD excised for the management of low back pain. IVD from patients with back pain were of two types: those that when examined by discography reproduced the patient symptoms (pain level IVD) and those that did not (non‐pain level IVD). Microvascular blood vessels accompanied nerve fibres growing into pain level IVD and these expressed NGF. The adjacent nerves expressed the high‐affinity NGF receptor trk‐A. These vessels entered the normally avascular IVD through the discal end plates. NGF expression was not identified in non‐pain level or control IVD. Some non‐pain level IVD had vessels within them, which entered through the annulus fibrosus. These did not express NGF nor did nerves accompany them. These findings show that nociceptive nerve ingrowth into painful IVD is causally linked with NGF production by blood vessels growing into the IVD, from adjacent vertebral bodies. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Robotic telepathology: efficacy and usability in pulmonary pathology
Authors: Leong F. J. W.‐M. , Nicholson A. G. , McGee J. O'D.
Published: October 2002

Robotic telepathology is well established in the USA as a method of case referral, but is less frequently used in the UK. Using cases covering a broad spectrum of pulmonary pathology, this study assessed its application in primary diagnosis and its functionality in terms of accuracy of diagnosis and time per case, for both small biopsies and open lung biopsies/resections. Forty cases (20 bronchoscopic and 20 surgical lung biopsy/resection specimens) were reviewed in blinded fashion by a single pathologist using robotic telepathology. Connection between the John Radcliffe and Royal Brompton Hospitals was via 10 Mb/s LAN to the Internet (supported by the Joint Academic Network). The cases were then randomized and reviewed a second time with conventional light microscopy. Diagnosis, initial time to reach diagnosis, and overall time per case were recorded. In two bronchoscopic biopsy cases, there were clinically significant differences between telepathology and conventional light microscopy, one probably attributable to user inexperience and the other to either speed of image capture or digital image quality. In the surgical lung biopsies and resections, there was one variation of opinion: with telepathology a case was considered to be probably mesothelioma, whereas this was thought less likely on light microscopy. In both instances, immunohistochemistry was requested prior to clinical management. Telepathology was 14 times slower than conventional light microscopy when examining bronchoscopic biopsies. The average time spent per slide was 7 min 21 s, compared with 32 s per slide with conventional light microscopy. When assessing open lung biopsies and resections, telepathology was five times slower, at 6 min 13 s compared with 1 min 10 s with conventional light microscopy. This study showed that robotic telepathology is accurate for primary diagnosis in pulmonary histopathology, but modifications in both laboratory protocols and telepathology hardware are needed to decrease the time difference between telepathology and conventional light microscopy, for telepathology to be usable within the framework of a busy referral practice. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Induction of PDX‐1‐positive cells in the main duct during regeneration after acute necrotizing pancreatitis in rats
Authors: Taguchi Masashi , Yamaguchi Taizo , Otsuki Makoto
Published: October 2002

Pancreatic regeneration involves two pathways; proliferation and differentiation of pancreatic progenitor cells, which probably exist in pancreatic ductal epithelium, and replication of pre‐existing differentiated acinar, islet, and ductal epithelial cells. During pancreatic development, differentiated cells arise from the ductal progenitor cells expressing the pancreatic/duodenal homeobox‐1 (PDX‐1) homeodomain transcription factor. The aims of this study were to characterize cell proliferation and differentiation during regeneration after acute necrotizing pancreatitis and to evaluate the role of PDX‐1‐positive stem cells. Necrotizing pancreatitis was induced in rats by retrograde intraductal infusion of sodium taurocholate. Cell types were classified into five categories: main, large, and small ductal epithelial cells, tubular complexes and acinar cells. Each category was scored using a 5‐bromo‐2′‐deoxyuridine (BrdU) labelling index (LI) at various time points after induction of pancreatitis. Tissue sections were also immunostained for PDX‐1 to determine the source of pancreatic stem cells. Acinar necrosis was observed at 24 h after induction of pancreatitis and most lobules were filled with tubular complexes on day 5. Subsequently, newly formed acinar cells were observed on day 7, but the lobular architecture returned to normal appearance on day 28. Proliferation started in the main and large ducts at 24 h; marked mitotic activity was evident in small ductal epithelial cells and tubular complexes on day 3, and in acinar cells on day 7. At 24 h after induction of pancreatitis, epithelial cells of the main duct with PDX‐1‐positive nuclei were greatly increased, simultaneously with the peak LI of BrdU. These results suggest that regeneration after necrotizing pancreatitis involves proliferation and differentiation of pancreatic progenitor cells, and that ductal epithelial cells with PDX‐1‐positive nuclei may contribute to the differentiation of pancreatic stem cells in the main duct. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Activated status of tumour‐infiltrating lymphocytes and apoptosis in testicular seminoma
Authors: Yakirevich Evgeny , Lefel Oleg , Sova Yanina , Stein Avi , Cohen Oded , Ben Izhak Ofer , Resnick Murray B.
Published: October 2002

Testicular seminoma is characterized by a prominent lymphoid infiltrate and an excellent prognosis. Cytotoxic T‐lymphocytes (CTLs) infiltrating seminoma tumour nests constitute a major subset of the lymphoid infiltrate. The objective of this study was to determine whether CTLs express markers of cytotoxic potential and activity and whether the number of activated CTLs correlates with the extent of apoptosis in testicular seminomas, as opposed to non‐seminomatous testicular germ cell tumours (NSTGCTs). Twenty cases of pure seminoma as well as 20 cases of NSTGCTs including 16 mixed germ cell tumours (MGCTs) were studied. Immunohistochemistry for the cytotoxic markers TIA‐1 (cytotoxic potential) and granzyme B (cytotoxic activity) and the T‐cell markers CD3 and CD8 was performed on formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded sections. The apoptotic index (AI) was determined by the TUNEL method. The number of CD3+, CD8+, TIA‐1+, and granzyme B+ cells in tumour cell nests was markedly increased in testicular seminomas, compared with NSTGCTs (p<0.01). Activated granzyme B+ cells numbered 25.6±5.2 per high power field in seminomas and 8.9±3.2, 8.1±3.9, and 0.4±0.2 for embryonal carcinomas, yolk sac tumours, and immature teratomas, respectively. Double immunohistochemical staining for granzyme B and CD8 revealed that 82.6±8.5% of granzyme B‐expressing cells were CD8+. The tumour cell AI was significantly increased in embryonal carcinoma, compared with the seminoma, yolk sac tumour, and immature teratoma subgroups (6.7±1.3, 2.3±0.3, 3.0±1.1, and 2.3±1.1, respectively, p<0.001). TUNEL/CD3 double immunostaining revealed that a significant proportion of the apoptotic seminomatous tumour cells were in direct contact with one or more CD3+ lymphocytes (47.2±6.2%). The number of activated granzyme B+ CTLs showed a strong linear correlation with the AI in the seminoma group (r=0.71, p<0.0001) but not in other subgroups. TUNEL/granzyme B double immunolabelling revealed that a proportion of activated granzyme B+ lymphocytes (20%) were often seen in close contact with apoptotic tumour cells. The presence of increased numbers of activated cytotoxic lymphocytes in testicular seminomas suggests that apoptotic tumour cell death in this neoplasm may be triggered by cytotoxic granule effectors. This phenomenon may be one of the key host immune mechanisms leading to the excellent prognosis in this tumour. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Pallister‐Killian syndrome: difficulties of prenatal diagnosis
Authors: Doray Bérénice , Girard‐Lemaire Françoise , Gasser Bernard , Baldauf Jean‐Jacques , de Geeter Bernard , Spizzo Michèle , Zeidan Charles , Flori Elisabeth
Published: October 2002

The first prenatal diagnosis of Pallister‐Killian syndrome (PKS) was reported by Gilgenkrantz et al. in1985. Since this report, about 60 prenatal cases have been reported but both sonographic and cytogenetic diagnoses remain difficult. Although ultrasound anomalies such as congenital diaphragmatic hernia, polyhydramnios and rhizomelic micromelia in association with fetal overgrowth are very suggestive of the syndrome, they are inconstant and they may even be absent. The mosaic distribution of the supernumerary isochromosome 12p greatly increases these difficulties. No prenatal cytogenetic technique is sensitive enough to ensure prenatal diagnosis and false‐negative results have been described on fetal blood, chorionic villi and amniocentesis. We report here two prenatal cases of PKS which illustrate the great variability of the fetal phenotype. In reviewing the 63 reported cases, we attempt to determine ultrasound indicators of the syndrome and to define a cytogenetic strategy. In cases where ultrasound indicators are present, our proposal is first to perform chorionic villus or placental sampling and then amniocentesis when the first cytogenetic result is normal. Fetal blood sampling is the least indicated method because of the low frequency of the isochromosome in lymphocytes. In this cytogenetic strategy, fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) and especially interphase FISH on non‐cultured cells increases the probability or identifying the isochromosome. A misdiagnosis remains possible when ultrasound is not contributory; the identification of new discriminating ultrasound indicators would be very helpful in this context. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prenatal prediction of childhood‐onset spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) in Turkish families
Authors: Savas S. , Eraslan S. , Kantarci S. , Karaman B. , Acarsoz D. , Tükel T. , Cogulu O. , Ozkinay F. , Basaran S. , Aydınlı K. , Yuksel‐Apak M. , Kirdar B.
Published: October 2002

Childhood‐onset spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is one of the most common neurodegenerative genetic disorders. SMN1 is the SMA‐determining gene deleted or mutated in the majority of SMA cases. There is no effective cure or treatment for this disease yet. Thus, the availability of prenatal testing is important. Here we report prenatal prediction for 68 fetuses in 63 Turkish SMA families using direct deletion analysis of the SMN1 gene by restriction digestion. The genotype of the index case was known in 40 families (Group A) but unknown in the remaining 23 families (Group B). A total of ten fetuses were predicted to be affected. Eight of these fetuses were derived from Group A and two of these fetuses were from Group B families. Two fetuses from the same family in Group A had the SMNhyb1 gene in addition to homozygous deletion of the NAIP gene. One fetus from Group A was homozygously deleted for only exon 8 of the SMN2 gene, and further analysis showed the presence of both the SMN1 and SMNhyb1 genes but not the SMN2 gene. In addition, one carrier with a homozygous deletion of only exon 8 of the SMN1 gene was detected to have a SMNhyb2 gene, which was also found in the fetus. To our knowledge, these are the first prenatal cases with SMNhyb genes. Follow‐up studies demonstrated that the prenatal predictions and the phenotype of the fetuses correlated well in 33 type I pregnancies demonstrating that a careful molecular analysis of the SMN genes is very useful in predicting the phenotype of the fetus in families at risk for SMA. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Novel mutation and prenatal sonographic findings of glutaric aciduria (type I) in two Taiwanese families
Authors: Lin S. K. , Hsu S. G. , Ho E. S. C. , Tsai C. R. , Hseih Y. T. , Lo F. C. , Lai H. Y. , Chen M. H.
Published: October 2002

Glutaric aciduria type I (GA I) is an autosomal recessively inherited inborn error with a defect of the enzyme glutaryl‐CoA dehydrogenase (GCDH), which has never been diagnosed prenatally in Taiwanese patients. We present the prenatal sonographic findings and mutational analysis data of three children in two Taiwanese families. One patient from each family was diagnosed postnatally due to macrocephaly and neurological deterioration at 4 months and 10 months, respectively. The third child, sister of the first patient, was diagnosed prenatally at 11 weeks' gestation through chorionic villus sampling (CVS). Molecular analysis revealed that the fetus and child in Family 1 were homozygous for a common mutation, IVS10 ‐2A>C, which has not been reported in the Caucasian population. The patient in Family 2 was a compound heterozygote for IVS10 ‐2A>C and a novel mutation 749T>C (L238P). After genetic counseling, the couple decided to continue the second pregnancy. However, dilatation of quadrigeminal cistern (QC) and suspicious macrocephaly were noted at 30 weeks. Progressive dilatation of the QC associated with macrocephaly, fronto‐temporal atrophy and wide space of perisylvian fissure were found in the follow‐up scans. The affected girl was delivered at 37 weeks' gestation by cesarean section. Postnatal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies confirmed the prenatal sonographic findings. With prenatal sonographic findings and mutational analysis presented in the present cases, the feasibility of prenatal diagnosis of GA I in high‐risk pregnancy can not be overlooked. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ability to handle, and patient preference for, insulin delivery devices in visually impaired patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Fox Charles , McKinnon Carol , Wall Anthony , Lawton Simon A
Published: October 2002

In this comparative study, 86 patients with type 2 diabetes and visual impairment were evaluated on their preference for, and ability to operate, three different insulin delivery systems— InnoLet® (NovoNordisk), Humulin® NPH Pen (Eli Lilly) and vial and syringe (Becton Dickinson). Patients found the clocklike dose scale on InnoLet® significantly easier to read than that of the other systems (92% were able to read four doses, versus 45% and 61% with Humulin® Pen and syringe respectively, both p < 0.001), and showed greater ability to set and dispense a 20 unit dose without instruction. After reading the packaging information leaflet and brief verbal instruction, 99% of patients were able to correctly set and dispense three consecutive insulin doses with InnoLet® compared with 85% with Humulin® Pen and 64% with syringe (p = 0.001 and p > 0.001, respectively). Ability to set and deliver insulin was not however clearly related to visual acuity. On questionnaire, 87% of patients expressed an overall preference for InnoLet®, and 13% for Humulin® Pen (p < 0.001); no patients preferred the syringe. In conclusion, insulin delivery systems designed to simplify accurate, reliable insulin delivery for people with visual impairment can improve the ability of such patients to repeatedly set and deliver the correct insulin dose. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Variations in prescribing atypical antipsychotic drugs in primary care: cross‐sectional study
Authors: Ashcroft Darren M. , Frischer Martin , Lockett Joanne , Chapman Stephen R.
Published: October 2002

Background

Side‐effects from conventional antipsychotic drugs, in particular extrapyramidal side‐effects, limit their use for some patients, lead to non‐compliance and may adversely affect the quality of life of others. Newer, more expensive, ‘atypical’ antipsychotics have been developed in attempts to address these problems, although debate about the most appropriate role for these medications remains.

Objectives

To examine variations in prescribing of the ‘atypical’ antipsychotics in primary care, over a 5‐year period.

Setting

All 13 health authorities within the West Midlands region.

Method

Cross‐sectional analysis of prescribing analysis and cost (PACT) data for atypical antipsychotic drugs (amisulpride, clozapine, olanzapine, risperidone, sertindole, and zotepine) was performed using one‐way analysis of variance. To test whether the differences reflected variation in local population need, the prescribing data were adjusted using Mental Illness Needs Index scores. Regression analysis was used to examine the relationship between the overall levels of prescribing and local population need.

Results

The total volume of prescribing of atypical antipsychotic drugs in primary care increased nearly six‐fold from 1996/97 to 2000/01 in the West Midlands region. Olanzapine was the most commonly prescribed drug during 1999/2000, accounting for 45% of defined daily doses, while risperidone accounted for 38% of the total. In 1996/97, a four‐fold variation in rates of atypical antipsychotic prescribing between health authorities was found, compared with a three‐fold variation in 2000/01, after adjusting for measures of local population need.

Conclusions

There has been a substantial increase in the prescription of atypical antipsychotics in primary care over the last 5 years, but the rate of increase has varied widely between health authorities. Further studies are needed to determine the factors that have led to these differences in uptake, and the likely impact of national guidance on future prescribing patterns. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Self‐medication in a Portuguese urban population: a prevalence study
Authors: Paula Martins Ana , da Costa Miranda Ana , Mendes Zilda , Soares Maria Augusta , Ferreira Patrícia , Nogueira Ana
Published: October 2002

Purpose

To determine the prevalence of self‐medication in a Portuguese urban population. To assess the feasibility of performing these studies in community pharmacies.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was chosen to collect information about demography, use of health services and drug utilization in a sample of pharmacy user‐purchasers in a pre‐determined period of time.

Results

The proportion of pharmacies which participated in the study was 18.3% (11 from 60 invited) in Lisbon and 37.5% (15 of 40 invited) in Porto. Among the 3312 selected patients, only 2.6% (n = 114) refused to participate. The prevalence of self‐medication was found to be 26.2%. The distribution of self‐medication by gender was 28.4% for males and 25.2% for females. Use of self‐medication was statistically significantly higher (p < 0.001) among individuals aged between 10 and 49 years. The main therapeutic groups used for self‐medication, according to the ATC classification, were throat preparations, cough and cold preparations, stomatological preparations (antiinfectives and corticosteroides for local oral treatment), laxatives, analgesics, dermatological preparations, vitamins, mineral supplements and other alimentary tract and metabolism products.

Conclusions

In the urban areas under study the overall prevalence of self‐medication was 26.2%. Predictive factors for self‐medication seem to be, a high level of education, professional status and length of waiting times for a medical consultation in cases of a severe health problem. Further research on this subject is needed to confirm the reproducibility of these results, since potential selection bias could have been introduced due to the method used for patient selection. Pharmacoepidemiologic research is feasible in Portuguese community pharmacies. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The relationship of emotional intelligence with academic intelligence and the Big Five
Authors: Van der Zee Karen , Thijs Melanie , Schakel Lolle
Published: October 2002

The present study examines the relationship of self‐ and other ratings of emotional intelligence with academic intelligence and personality, as well as the incremental validity of emotional intelligence beyond academic intelligence and personality in predicting academic and social success. A sample of 116 students filled in measures for emotional and academic intelligence, the Big Five, and indicators of social and academic success. Moreover, other ratings were obtained from four different raters on emotional intelligence and social success. Factor analysis revealed three emotional intelligence dimensions that were labelled as ‘Empathy’, ‘Autonomy’, and ‘Emotional Control’. Little evidence was found for a relationship between emotional and academic intelligence. Academic intelligence was low and inconsistently related to emotional intelligence, revealing both negative and positive interrelations. Strong relationships were found of the emotional intelligence dimensions with the Big Five, particularly with Extraversion and Emotional Stability. Interestingly, the emotional intelligence dimensions were able to predict both academic and social success above traditional indicators of academic intelligence and personality. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Preparation and characterization of acrylic latex/nano‐SiO2 composites
Authors: Xiong Mingna , Wu Limin , Zhou Shuxue , You Bo
Published: October 2002

Acrylic/nano‐silica composite latexes were prepared by blending via high shear stirring (SS) or ball milling (BM) and in situ polymerization (IS). For comparison, composites filled with micro‐silica were also prepared. The mechanical and optical properties of the polymers formed by the composite latex filled with nano‐ or micro‐silica were investigated using an Instron testing machine, by dynamic mechanical analysis, ultraviolet–visible spectrophotometry and transmission electron micrography. The results showed that SS and BM methods could obtain better nanocomposite latex and polymers than the IS method, characterized by better dispersion of nanoparticles, higher tensile strength and Tg for SS and BM than for IS. The increase in absorbance and reduction in transmittance of UV (290–400 nm wavelength) were observed as nano‐silica content increased, whereas the UV absorbance or transmittance basically were kept unchanged for the composites filled with micro‐silica.

© 2002 Society of Chemical Industry
A comprehensive needs assessment to facilitate prevention of school drop out and violence
Authors: Hunt Mary Helen , Meyers Joel , Davies Gwen , Meyers Barbara , Grogg Kathryn Rogers , Neel John
Published: October 2002

The present study addresses school violence and school drop out and proposes that the underlying factor of school connectedness/school climate should guide preventive and intervention efforts. Data were gathered from five schools in a small city school district in north Georgia. Group and individual interviews served as the basis for constructing a 78‐item district‐wide survey administered to 304 school employees. Data are presented on individual items from the survey. Principal components analysis revealed five distinct factors: school connectedness/positive school climate, causes of violence, causes of school drop out, interventions for drop out, and interventions for violence. The principal components analysis was the basis for construction of a revised scale. Differences between revised scale scores were noted as a function of whether respondents were from central office, elementary or secondary schools. The five revised scales had correlation ranging from .31 to .59. Implications for research and practice are discussed. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
The preparation of school psychologists for crisis intervention
Authors: Allen Melissa , Jerome Annette , White Adrianne , Marston Stephanie , Lamb Shannon , Pope Debbi , Rawlins Carrie
Published: October 2002

School psychologists (N = 276, 81% return rate) were surveyed regarding the following aspects of crisis intervention: (a) university preparation, (b) continuing professional development, and (c) current involvement with school crisis plans and crisis teams. Of those receiving university training, 58% believed they were minimally prepared or not at all prepared to deal with school crises. Only 2% reported being well prepared or very well prepared. Data analyses indicated increased university training in recent years, particularly with practicum/internship experiences related to crisis intervention. Approximately 81% of school psychologists participated in local training for crisis intervention as part of continuing professional development. Although 91% of school psychologists worked in districts with crisis plans in place, only 53% participated on crisis teams. Suicide, violence, and school district crisis plans were recommended as high priority topics for future academic training. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Winning the battle and losing the war: Examining the relation between grade retention and dropping out of high school
Authors: Jimerson Shane R. , Anderson Gabrielle E. , Whipple Angela D.
Published: October 2002

The aim of this investigation is to provide a comprehensive review of dropout research that examines grade retention within both associative and predictive models. A systematic review of seventeen studies examining dropping out of high school prior to graduation demonstrates that grade retention is one of the most powerful predictors of dropout status. The discussion addresses the discrepancies among the perspectives of many educational professionals regarding the effectiveness of grade retention and deleterious long‐term correlates. The transactional model of development is presented, which emphasizes developmental trajectories over time, in order to facilitate the interpretation of the association between grade retention and school withdrawal. Educational professionals, teachers, researchers, parents, and policymakers considering the efficacy of grade retention are encouraged to consider the implications of these findings. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Diversity research literature in school psychology: 1990–1999
Authors: Miranda Antoinette Halsell , Gutter Pamela B.
Published: October 2002

This study is an extension of an initial study conducted by Wiese Rogers in 1992 that examined the diversity literature in school psychology journals. The purpose of this study was to review all research published in four major school psychology journals during the decade of the 90s for diversity content to determine if there had been an increase. Results indicated that 10.6% of the articles have diversity as a focus, a slight increase over Wiese Rogers's findings. Assessment continues to be the area that has the greatest number of diversity articles. Six reasons are proposed for the continued gap in the literature base. Implications for the field of school psychology and suggestions for increasing diversity articles are provided. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Preparation of the tricyclo[5.3.1.13,9]dodeca‐1,5‐diyl dication: attempts to prepare a novel µ‐H cation
Authors: Taeschler C. , Parvez M. , Sorensen T. S.
Published: October 2002

The tricyclo[5.3.1.13,9]dodeca‐3,7‐diyl dication (6) was prepared in situ and characterized by 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy. Reaction of this dication with isopentane, NaBH4 or H2, in an attempt to prepare the µ‐H cation 7, did result in hydride transfer, but to the ‘outside’ face of the dication, leading to the conventional monocation 8, or rearrangement products of this. This monocation was independently prepared, and is thermally less stable than the dication, rearranging to the 2‐ethyl‐2‐adamantyl cation (19) at −60 °C, ΔG‡ = 16.0 ± 0.6 kcal mol−1. The 2‐methyltricyclo[4.3.1.13,7]undec‐2‐yl cation (20), a likely intermediate in this rearrangement, was also independently prepared and shown to rearrange to 19, ΔG‡ = 14.4 ± 0.3 kcal mol−1, consistent with a stepwise rearrangement process for 8→[20]→19. The structures of dication 6 and monocation 8 were investigated by high‐level ab initio calculations, and modeling studies were carried out to look at the factors that allow dications such as 6 to even be prepared. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Kinetics and mechanism of formation and decomposition of substituted 1‐phenylpyrrolidin‐2‐ones in basic medium
Authors: Sedlák Milos̆ , Hejtmánková Ludmila , Kas̆parová Pavla , Kaválek Jaromír
Published: October 2002

A study of chemical behaviour of substituted 4‐chloro‐N‐phenylbutanamides in aqueous solutions of sodium hydroxide showed that the substrate first undergoes ring closure to give substituted 1‐phenylpyrrolidin‐2‐ones, which are subsequently hydrolysed to substitution derivatives of sodium 4‐amino‐N‐phenylbutanoates. Kinetic measurements provided the values of dissociation constants pKa and cyclization rate constants kc in water at 25 °C for 2‐bromo‐4‐chloro‐N‐(4‐nitrophenyl)butanamide [pKa = 11.64 ± 0.01; kc = (1.94 ± 0.03) × 10−2 s−1], 4‐chloro‐N‐(4‐nitrophenyl)butanamide [pKa = 13.35 ± 0.02; kc = (1.60 ± 0.02) × 10−2 s−1] and 4‐chloro‐2‐methyl‐N‐(4‐nitrophenyl)butanamide [pKa = 13.55 ± 0.03; kc = (7.61 ± 0.11) × 10−2 s−1]. The pKa and kc values of individual derivatives differ depending on the substitution at the α‐position of the butanamide skeleton. In methanolic sodium methoxide solutions, the course of ring closure of 2‐bromo‐4‐chloro‐N‐(4‐nitrophenyl)butanamide is of similar nature but slower [K = 60.10 ± 0.08 and kc = (6.52 ± 0.05) × 10−3 s−1]. The subsequent hydrolyses of substituted 1‐phenylpyrrolidin‐2‐ones to substituted 4‐aminobutanoic acids also have different courses with different derivatives and depend on the substituents in the aromatic and/or heterocyclic moiety. The rate‐limiting step of hydrolysis of 1‐(4‐nitrophenyl)pyrrolidin‐2‐one consists of the non‐catalysed decomposition of the tetrahedral intermediate. In the case of 3‐bromo‐1‐(4‐nitrophenyl)pyrrolidin‐2‐one at sodium hydroxide concentrations below 0.1 mol l−1, the rate‐limiting step is the second reaction pathway, i.e. the hydroxide ion‐catalysed decomposition of the tetrahedral intermediate. At sodium hydroxide concentrations above 0.1 mol l−1, the rate‐limiting step shifts to formation of the tetrahedral intermediate. This formation of the intermediate is 140 times slower than its hydroxide ion‐catalysed decomposition [k3/k−1 = (1.40 ± 0.04) × 102 l mol−1]. Introduction of a 3‐bromo substituent into 1‐(4‐nitrophenyl)pyrrolidin‐2‐one results in acceleration of all the reaction steps of hydrolysis and increases the acidity of the intermediate. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Conformational features of a furyl‐substituted bis(tetrahydroindenyl)zirconium dichloride system
Authors: Dreier Thorsten , Hannig Frithjof , Erker Gerhard , Bergander Klaus , Fröhlich Roland
Published: October 2002

Treatment of 2‐(5‐methyl‐2‐furyl)tetrahydroindenyllithium with ZrCl4 gave bis[2‐(5‐methyl‐2‐furyl)tetrahydroindenyl]zirconium dichloride (8). Dynamic 1H NMR spectroscopy revealed a Cp‐furyl rotational barrier of ΔG≠Arrot (148 K) = 6.8 ± 0.4 kcal mol−1. The x‐ray crystal structure analysis of 8 showed the presence of a rac‐like metallocene conformation in which the furyl rings are oriented coplanar with the Cp moiety of the tetrahydroindenyl ligand systems, but the two furyl rings are oriented differently: one has the oxygen atom oriented toward the open front side, whereas the other has the furyl oxygen pointing toward the narrow back side of the bent metallocene wedge. The 8–MAO Ziegler–Natta catalyst system produces an atactic polypropylene oil. Copyright­© 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Functional polymers by living anionic polymerization
Authors: Jagur‐Grodzinski Joseph
Published: October 2002

The application of living anionic polymerization techniques for the functionalization of polymers and block copolymers is reviewed. The attachment of functional groups to polymeric chains of predetermined lengths and narrow molecular weight distributions is described. Carboxyls, hydroxyls, amines, halogens, double bonds, and many other functional groups can be placed at one or two ends in the center or evenly spaced along polymeric chains. Subsequent transformations of the functional groups further contribute to the versatility of such treatments. General methods based on the use, as terminators, of substituted haloalkanes, as well as the addition of living polymers or their initiators to diphenylethylenes, substituted with appropriate functional groups or molecules, are discussed. Another approach, based on the living polymerization of monomers with protected functional groups, is also discussed. It has been used for the preparation of polymers and copolymers with evenly spaced functional groups. The combination of living anionic polymerization techniques with controlled radical and cationic polymerizations is also described. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 40: 2116–2133, 2002
Reactivity of common functional groups with urethanes: Models for reactive compatibilization of thermoplastic polyurethane blends
Authors: Lu Qi‐Wei , Hoye Thomas R. , Macosko Christopher W.
Published: October 2002

Two model urethane compounds, dibutyl 4,4′‐methylenebis(phenyl carbamate) (BMB) and dioctyl 4,4′‐methylenebis(phenyl carbamate) (OMO) were prepared by capping 4,4′‐methylenebis(phenyl isocyanate) with n‐butanol and n‐octanol, respectively. The reactions of the two model urethane compounds with several small monofunctional compounds as well as two model poly(ethylene glycols) were carried out with neat mixtures at elevated temperatures. The ranking of reactivity of the functional groups with the urethanes was determined as follows—primary amine > secondary amine ≫ hydroxyl ∼ acid ∼ anhydride ≫ epoxide. Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR) was used for the quantitative analysis. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy was used to complement the NMR analysis. Conversions of carbamate in each reaction were monitored over time at constant temperature (200 °C). The reactions between OMO and primary amine were conducted at 170, 180, 190, and 200 °C and best described with a second‐order bimolecular reaction model. The rate constant was estimated to be 1.8 × 10−3 L · mol−1 · s−1 and activation energy 115 kJ · mol−1. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 40: 2310–2328, 2002
Star‐shaped polymers by Ru(II)‐catalyzed living radical polymerization. II. Effective reaction conditions and characterization by multi‐angle laser light scattering/size exclusion chromatography and small‐angle X‐ray scattering
Authors: Baek Kyung‐Youl , Kamigaito Masami , Sawamoto Mitsuo
Published: October 2002

Star poly(methyl methacrylate)s (P*) of various arm lengths and core sizes were synthesized in high yields by the polymer linking reaction in Ru(II)‐catalyzed living radical polymerization. The yields of the star polymers were strongly dependent on the reaction conditions and increased under the following conditions: (1) at a higher overall concentration of arm chains ([P*]), (2) with a larger degree of polymerization (DP) of the arm chains (arm length), and (3) with a larger ratio (r) of linking agents to P* (core size). In particular, the yields sharply increased in a short time at a higher temperature, in a polar solution, and at a higher complex concentration after the addition of linking agents. These star polymers were then analyzed by multi‐angle laser light scattering to determine the weight‐average molecular weight (3.8 × 103 to 1.5 × 106), the number of arm chains per molecule (f = 4–63), and the radius of gyration (Rz = 2–22 nm), which also depended on the reaction conditions (e.g., f and Rz increased as [P*], DP, and r increased). Small‐angle X‐ray scattering analyses of the star polymers showed that they consisted of spheres for which the radius of the microgel core was 2.7 nm. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 40: 2245–2255, 2002
Synthesis and properties of new aromatic poly‐(ether benzoxazole)s from 2,2′‐bis(4‐amino‐3‐hydroxyphenoxy)biphenyl and aromatic dicarboxylic acid chlorides
Authors: Imai Yoshio , Maeda Yasumasa , Takeuchi Hisashi , Park Ki‐Hong , Kakimoto Masa‐aki , Kurosaki Toshikazu
Published: October 2002

A new bis(o‐aminophenol) with a crank and twisted noncoplanar structure and ether linkages, 2,2′‐bis(4‐amino‐3‐hydroxyphenoxy)biphenyl, was synthesized by the reaction of 2‐benzyloxy‐4‐fluoronitrobenzene with biphenyl‐2,2′‐diol, followed by reduction. Biphenyl‐2,2′‐diyl‐containing aromatic poly(ether benzoxazole)s with inherent viscosities of 0.52–1.01 dL/g were obtained by a conventional two‐step procedure involving the polycondensation of the bis(o‐aminophenol) monomer with various aromatic dicarboxylic acid chlorides, yielding precursor poly(ether o‐hydroxyamide)s, and subsequent thermal cyclodehydration. These new aromatic poly(ether benzoxazole)s were soluble in methanesulfonic acid, and some of them dissolved in m‐cresol. The aromatic poly(ether benzoxazole)s had glass‐transition temperatures of 190–251 °C and were stable up to 380 °C in nitrogen, with 10% weight losses being recorded above 520 °C. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 40: 2656–2662, 2002
Impact‐specific essential work of fracture of maleic anhydride‐compatibilized polypropylene/elastomer blends and their composites
Authors: Tjong Sie Chin , Xu Shi‐Ai , Mai Yiu‐Wing
Published: October 2002

Charpy drop‐weight‐impact and essential work of fracture (EWF) characteristics of maleic anhydride (MA)‐compatibilized styrene–ethylene butylene–styrene (SEBS)/polypropylene (PP) blends and their composites reinforced with short glass fibers (SGFs) were investigated. MA was grafted to either SEBS copolymer (SEBS‐g‐MA) or PP (PP‐g‐MA). The mPP blend was prepared by the compounding of 95% PP and 5% PP‐g‐MA. Drop‐weight‐impact results revealed that the mPP specimen had an extremely low impact strength. The incorporation of SEBS or SEBS‐g‐MA elastomers into mPP improved its impact strength dramatically. Similarly, the addition of SEBS was beneficial for enhancing the impact strength of the SGF/SEBS/mPP and SGF/SEBS‐g‐MA/mPP hybrids. A scanning electron microscopy examination of the fractured surfaces of impact specimens revealed that the glass‐fiber surfaces of the SGF/SEBS/mPP and SGF/SEBS‐g‐MA/mPP hybrids were sheathed completely with deformed matrix material. This was due to strong interfacial bonding between the phase components of the hybrids associated with the MA addition. Impact EWF tests were carried out on single‐edge‐notched‐bending specimens at 3 m s−1. The results showed that pure PP, mPP, and the composites only exhibited specific essential work. The nonessential work was absent in these specimens under a high‐impact‐rate loading condition. The addition of SEBS or SEBS‐g‐MA elastomer to mPP increased both the specific essential and nonessential work of fracture. This implied that elastomer particles contributed to the dissipation of energy at the fracture surface and in the outer plastic zone at a high impact speed of 3 m s−1. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 40: 1881–1892, 2002
Synthesis and characterization of organosoluble, thermoplastic elastomer/clay nanocomposites
Authors: Pramanik M. , Srivastava S. K. , Samantaray B. K. , Bhowmick A. K.
Published: October 2002

We synthesized organosoluble, thermoplastic elastomer/clay nanocomposites by making a jelly like solution of ethylene vinyl acetate containing 28% vinyl acetate (EVA‐28) and blending it with organomodified montmorillonite. Sodium montmorillonite (Na+‐MMT) was made organophilic by the intercalation of dodecyl ammonium ions. X‐ray diffraction patterns of Na+‐MMT and its corresponding organomodified dodecyl ammonium ion intercalated montmorillonite (12Me‐MMT) showed an increase in the interlayer spacing from 11.94 to 15.78 Å. However, X‐ray diffraction patterns of the thermoplastic elastomer and its hybrids with organomodified clay contents up to 6 wt % exhibited the disappearance of basal reflection peaks within an angle range of 3–10°, supporting the formation of a delaminated configuration. A hybrid containing 8 wt % 12Me‐MMT revealed a small hump within an angle range of 5–6° because of the aggregation of silicate layers in the EVA‐28 matrix. A transmission electron microscopy image of the same hybrid showed 3–5‐nm 12Me‐MMT particles dispersed in the thermoplastic elastomer matrix; that is, it led to the formation of nanocomposites or molecular‐level composites with a delaminated configuration. The formation of nanocomposites was reflected through the unexpected improvement of thermal and mechanical properties; for example, the tensile strength of a nanocomposite containing only 4 wt % organophilic clay was doubled in comparison with that of pure EVA‐28, and the thermal stability of the same nanocomposite was higher by about 34 °C. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 40: 2065–2072, 2002