bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of Pellets Found in the North Area of the Asiago Plateau (Vicenza, Italy), a Locality of the 1914–18 World War
Authors: Mazzocchin Gian Antonio , Lucchini Vittorio , Bragato Carlo , Rudello Danilo
Published: January 2005

Pellets of unknown material contained in an aluminium cylinder were found in the north area of the Asiago plateau (Vicenza), a locality of the First World War (1914‐1918). Elemental analysis, infrared, chromatography and NMR experiments indicate that the main product is pentaerythritol tetranitrate (PETN). This substance was probably an igniting primer used by Austro‐Hungarian (A.U.) military engineering. Hypothesis of medical use of the pellets can be disregarded while it seems improbable the use of this explosive by German Army during the Second War World.
Multivariate Optimization of an Axially‐Viewed Inductively Coupled Plasma Multichannel‐Based Emission Spectrometer for the Analysis of Environmental Samples
Authors: Grotti Marco , Lagomarsino Cristina , Soggia Francesco , Frache Roberto
Published: January 2005

An experimental design procedure was applied to optimize the operating conditions of an axially‐viewed inductively coupled plasma emission spectrometer instruments equipped with echelle optics with cross dispersion and charge transfer device. The multivariate effect of carrier gas flow rate and r.f. power on several analytical figures was investigated and discussed. Both ultrasonic and pneumatic nebulization were used. For the final choice of the optimum, different criteria were taken into account, mainly plasma robustness, instrumental precision, analyte and background net emission, detection limits and signal‐to‐background ratios. It was found that the use of moderate power (1100W) and mean carrier gas flow rate (0.75 L/min) allows to obtain sufficient plasma robustness, satisfactory precision, and excellent signal‐to‐background ratios and limits of detection, favorable for ultratrace element determinations in environmental matrices.
Azorhodanine Derivatives as Inhibitors for Acidic Corrosion of Nickel
Authors: Fouda Abd El‐Aziz S. , Al‐Sarawy Ahmed A. , Omar Tark M.
Published: January 2005

Azorhodanine derivatives (HL1‐HL5) were tested as corrosion inhibitors for nickel in 2M HNO3 solution using weight loss and galvanostatic polarization techniques. The results showed that these derivatives act as inhibitors for nickel in this medium. The inhibition was assumed to occur via adsorption of the inhibitor molecule on the metal surface. Polarization measurements indicated that these compounds act as mixed‐type inhibitors, but the cathode is more polarized when an external current was applied. This means that these compounds retard the rate of hydrogen evolution and the rate of dissolution of the metal. Results showed that azorhodanine derivatives are adsorbed on the nickel surface following Temkin's adsorption isotherm. The activation energy and thermodynamic parameters were calculated and discussed at different temperatures (30‐45 °C).
Determination of Trace Cadmium in Waters by Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry After Preconcentration with 1‐Nitroso‐2‐Naphthol‐3, 6‐Disulfonic Acid on Ambersorb 572
Authors: Kendüzler Erdal , Türker Ali Rehber
Published: January 2005

A procedure for the determination of trace amount of cadmium after adsorption of its 1‐nitroso‐2‐naphthol‐3, 6‐disulfonic acid chelate on Ambersorb 572 has been proposed. This chelate is adsorbed on the adsorbent in the pH range 3‐8 from large volumes of aqueous solution of water samples with a preconcentration factor of 200. After being sorbed, cadmium was eluted by 5 mL of 2.0 mol L—1 nitric acid solution and determined directly by flame atomic absorption spectrophotometery (FAAS). The detection limit (3σ) of cadmium was 0.32 μg L—1. The precision of the proposed procedure, calculated as the relative standard deviation of recovery in sample solution (100 mL) containing 5 μg of cadmium was satisfactory (1.9%). The adsorption of cadmium onto adsorbent can formally be described by a Langmuir equation with a maximum adsorption capacity of 19.6 mg g—1 and a binding constant of 6.5×10—3 L mg—1. Various parameters, such as the effect of pH and the interference of a number of metal ions on the determination of cadmium, have been studied in detail to optimize the conditions for the preconcentration and determination of cadmium in water samples. This procedure was applied to the determination of cadmium in tap and river water samples.
Physicochemical Profile Studies of Soil Along the Banks of Ubu River in Ekwusigo and Nnewi Local Government Areas of Anambra State of Nigeria
Authors: Uzoukwu Bieluonwu Augustus , Onomake Okiemute Rosa
Published: January 2005

A physicochemical profile study on the soil along the banks of the Ubu river that runs across Ekwusigo and Nnewi Local Government Areas (LGA) of Anambra State of Nigeria was investigated for possible evidence of industrial waste disposal by the various large to medium scale industrial activities taking place within the two LGAs. When compared with soil samples from Uzoakwa Ihiala (pH 5.44) with little or no industrial activities, the soil along the banks of the course of the river were found to be more acidic with mean pH values that are lower than 4.7. Similarity in mean sulphate (7.01 mg/kg), phosphate (12.95 mg/kg) and chloride (242 mg/kg) contents was observed between the soils from the banks at Nnewi with those of the Uzoakwa Ihiala that was used as control. This was attributed to contributions from domestic sources rather than from industrial sources, and partly to the similarity of their soil chemistry that may be indigenous to both areas. Electrical conductivity values (55 ‐74 μS/cm) show that the ionic content of the soil is lower than those of the control (129 μS/cm). This may have been explained by the higher extractible Ca (175.73 mg/kg), K (34.32 mg/kg), and Mg (1.94 mg/kg) recorded for the control. The abundance of the metals extractible from the soils of the river banks follow the sequence Ca>K>Na>Fe. Results for the digested soil samples show that Fe is the most abundant metal in the soil with mean values that are close to 13, 000 mg/kg, but is much lower than the mean value of 39, 210 mg/kg recorded for the control. Both bank and control samples can be characterized as ferrous. The relative abundance of metal ions observed in the digested soil samples from the river banks follow the sequence Fe>>Al>Ca>Na>K>Zn>Cr. Values of 4, 565 mg/kg and 300 mg/kg were recorded for total hydrocarbon content and lead respectively for soils around Cento Group, indicating that there were industrial waste disposal or spillages on soil around the area, which was not observed in other areas.
Valproate embryopathy: Clinical and cognitive profile in 5 siblings
Authors: Schorry Elizabeth K. , Oppenheimer Sonya G. , Saal Howard M.
Published: January 2005

Valproate embryopathy is a well recognized syndrome caused by prenatal exposure to the anticonvulsant valproic acid (Depakote). We report five half‐siblings with the same mother (four different fathers) who all have valproate embryopathy. Valproic acid was the sole anticonvulsant in all five pregnancies, with doses ranging from 500 to 2,000 mg per day. All children were examined by a clinical geneticist and developmental pediatrician, and had formal developmental testing. Mean birth weight at term was 2,900 g (range: 2,400–3,400 g). Common features in the five children included: flat, broad nasal bridge (5/5), hypoplastic midface (4/5), apparent hypertelorism/telecanthus (4/5), smooth philtrum (4/5), thin upper lip (5/5), long thin tapering fingers (4/5), hypoplastic 5th toenails (2/5), and irregularly placed toes (2/5). Less frequent features were micro/brachycephaly (2/5), cleft palate (1/5), duplication cyst of small intestine (1/5), and hemangioma (1/5). None had neural tube defect. Neuropsychologic testing of the three children older than 4 years of age showed cognitive ability in the low normal or borderline range (mean IQ = 83; range: 75–86), with significantly lower scores in adaptive behavior and motor skills. Study of this family offers insight into the potentially high risk of valproate embryopathy in exposed pregnancies, and affords a unique opportunity to study the variability of expression and cognitive profile of the syndrome within one family. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Factors related to the development of communication in CHARGE syndrome
Authors: Thelin James W. , Fussner Jill C.
Published: January 2005

Parents of 28 children and a young adult with CHARGE syndrome participated in a survey on factors related to communication development. Information was obtained using a questionnaire and a follow‐up interview. Parents were asked to (1) specify their child's primary mode of communication, (2) judge the significance of the effects of physical disorders, sensory deficits, and behavior on development and communication, (3) provide lists of their child's conditions and disorders, and (4) provide information about intervention related to communication and education. Thirty‐nine percent of the participants (11/28) did not use symbolic language to communicate. The results suggest that factors affecting the majority of participants—physical disorders, vision loss, and hearing loss—may adversely affect communication ability. However, these factors did not preclude the development of symbolic language. Factors that were related to the development of symbolic language were success in the treatment of hearing loss with amplification, the ability to walk independently, and communication training initiated by 3 years of age. Other factors that may be related to the development of symbolic language are also discussed. © 2005 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Microglial activation and dopamine terminal loss in early Parkinson's disease
Authors: Ouchi Yasuomi , Yoshikawa Etsuji , Sekine Yoshimoto , Futatsubashi Masami , Kanno Toshihiko , Ogusu Tomomi , Torizuka Tatsuo
Published: January 2005

Neuroinflammatory glial response may contribute to degenerative processes in Parkinson's disease (PD). To investigate changes in microglial activity associated with changes in the presynaptic dopamine transporter density in the PD brain in vivo, we studied 10 early‐stage drug‐naive PD patients twice using positron emission tomography with a radiotracer for activated microglia [11C](R)‐PK11195 and a dopamine transporter marker [11C]CFT. Quantitative levels of binding potentials (BPs) of [11C](R)‐PK11195 and [11C]CFT in the nigrostriatal pathway were estimated by compartment analyses. The levels of [11C](R)‐PK11195 BP in the midbrain contralateral to the clinically affected side were significantly higher in PD than that in 10 age‐matched healthy subjects. The midbrain [11C](R)‐PK11195 BP levels significantly correlated inversely with [11C]CFT BP in the putamen and correlated positively with the motor severity assessed by the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale in PD. In healthy subjects, the [11C](R)‐PK11195 BP in the thalamus and midbrain showed an age‐dependent increase. In vivo demonstration of parallel changes in microglial activation and corresponding dopaminergic terminal loss in the affected nigrostriatal pathway in early PD supports that neuroinflammatory responses by intrinsic microglia contribute significantly to the progressive degeneration process of the disease and suggests the importance of early therapeutic intervention with neuroprotective drugs. Ann Neurol 2005;57:168–175
Acetylcholine receptors loss and postsynaptic damage in MuSK antibody–positive myasthenia gravis
Authors: Shiraishi Hirokazu , Motomura Masakatsu , Yoshimura Toshiro , Fukudome Takayasu , Fukuda Taku , Nakao Yoko , Tsujihata Mitsuhiro , Vincent Angela , Eguchi Katsumi
Published: January 2005

Muscle‐specific tyrosine kinase (MuSK) antibodies are found in some patients with “seronegative” myasthenia gravis (MG), but how they cause myasthenic symptoms is not clear. We visualized acetylcholine receptors (AChRs) and complement component 3 (C3) in muscle biopsies from 10 Japanese MG patients with MuSK antibodies, compared with 42 with AChR antibodies. The AChR density was not significantly decreased in MuSK antibody (Ab)–positive end‐plates compared with AChR antibody–positive end‐plates, and C3 was detected in only two of eight MuSK Ab–positive patients. MuSK antibodies do not appear to cause substantial AChR loss, complement deposition, or morphological damage. Effects on MuSK function need to be explored. Ann Neurol 2005;57:289–293
A responsive outcome for Parkinson's disease neuroprotection futility studies
Authors: Elm Jordan J. , Goetz Christopher G. , Ravina Bernard , Shannon Kathleen , Wooten George Fredrick , Tanner Caroline M. , Palesch Yuko Y. , Huang Peng , Guimaraes Paulo , Kamp Cornelia , Tilley Barbara C. , Kieburtz Karl
Published: January 2005

Futility studies are designed to test new treatments over a short period in a small number of subjects to determine if those treatments are worthy of larger and longer term studies, or if they should be abandoned. An appropriate outcome measure for a neuroprotection futility study in Parkinson's disease (sensitive to tracking disease progression in the short‐term) has not been determined. Data sets from three clinical trials were used to compare Parkinson's disease outcome measures. Total Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS; Mentation + Activities of Daily Living + Motor) change and Motor plus Activities of Daily Living UPDRS change, measured in untreated patients, required the smallest sample sizes of all the outcome measures explored. Other outcomes (UPDRS Motor, UPDRS Activities of Daily Living, and time to need levodopa) required somewhat larger sample sizes. Futility designs in Parkinson's disease are feasible in terms of short duration and small sample size requirements, and this design is being applied in two ongoing Parkinson's disease studies to select agents for future larger and longer term neuroprotection studies. Ann Neurol 2005;57:197–203
Paradoxical features of word finding difficulty in primary progressive aphasia
Authors: Vandenberghe Rik R. , Vandenbulcke Mathieu , Weintraub Sandra , Johnson Nancy , Porke Kathleen , Thompson Cynthia K. , Mesulam Marsel M.
Published: January 2005

Impaired word retrieval is a main symptom of primary progressive aphasia (PPA). The cognitive features of this impairment in PPA are poorly understood. We studied 12 patients with PPA (6 English‐speaking and 6 Dutch‐speaking), 7 patients with early‐stage clinically probable Alzheimer's disease (PRAD), 5 patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and 15 age‐matched, cognitively intact, control subjects. Subjects had to name a picture (the probe), which was preceded by a written word (the prime) that could be the correct name of the picture, a noun belonging to the same semantic subcategory (related prime), a semantically unrelated noun (unrelated prime), or a pseudoword (neutral control). Naming latencies were longer in PPA and PRAD patients than in control subjects. Critically, the interaction between group and prime type was highly significant. PPA patients named the probe more slowly after a related compared with an unrelated prime. In contrast, PRAD patients, mild cognitive impairment patients, and healthy control subjects tended to name the probe faster when it was preceded by a related prime. The semantic interference effect in PPA generalized across languages and PPA subtypes. Selection among competing word forms sharing a same semantic field is abnormal in PPA. The semantic interference effect constitutes a positive distinguishing feature between PPA and PRAD. Ann Neurol 2005;57:204–209
Is optic neuritis more benign than other first attacks in multiple sclerosis?
Authors: Tintoré Mar , Rovira Alex , Rio Jordi , Nos Carlos , Grivé Elisensa , Téllez Neus , Pelayo Raul , Comabella Manuel , Montalban Xavier
Published: January 2005

Optic neuritis presentations are thought to have a better prognosis. The aim of our study was to compare conversion to multiple sclerosis on the different topographies of CISs. We prospectively evaluated 320 patients with CISs (123 with optic neuritis, 78 with brainstem syndromes, 89 with spinal cord syndromes, and 30 with other topographies) who were observed for a median of 39 months. Patients underwent brain MRI within 3 months of their first attack and again 12 months later. Conversion to multiple sclerosis determined either clinically or by MRI was evaluated according to topography. Baseline MRI was normal in 49.2% of patients with optic neuritis compared with 24% in brainstem syndromes, 24% in spinal cord syndromes, and 18.5% in other syndromes. Optic neuritis behaved differently from the other CISs for lower conversion to clinically definite multiple sclerosis and smaller proportion of patients fulfilling MRI dissemination in space, time, or both. Nevertheless, when only patients with abnormal cranial MRI results at baseline were selected, no differences for clinical or MRI conversion were found. Optic neuritis has a smaller risk for conversion to multiple sclerosis. Nevertheless, MRI at baseline, not CIS topography, appears to be the crucial issue at multiple sclerosis presentation. Ann Neurol 2005;57:210–215
IgM deposits on skin nerves in anti–myelin‐associated glycoprotein neuropathy
Authors: Lombardi Raffaella , Erne Beat , Lauria Giuseppe , Pareyson Davide , Borgna Monica , Morbin Michela , Arnold Andreas , Czaplinski Adam , Fuhr Peter , Schaeren‐Wiemers Nicole , Steck Andreas J.
Published: January 2005

Anti–myelin‐associated glycoprotein (anti‐MAG) neuropathy is a chronic demyelinating neuropathy with predominant involvement of large sensory fibers and deposits of IgM and complement on sural nerve myelinated fibers. We assessed the presence of IgM deposits on skin myelinated nerve fibers and the involvement of unmyelinated axons in anti‐MAG neuropathy. Skin biopsies were performed in 14 patients with anti‐MAG neuropathy, in 8 patients with chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (CIDP), and in 2 patients with IgM paraproteinemic neuropathy. Biopsies were taken at the proximal thigh in 20 patients, at the distal leg in 21 patients, at the proximal arm in 13 patients, and at the hand or fingertip in 10 patients. We found IgM deposits on dermal myelinated fibers in all anti‐MAG neuropathy patients, with a greater prevalence at the distal site of the extremities. Deposits were located throughout the length of the fibers and at the paranodal loops. CIDP and IgM paraproteinemic neuropathies did not show any deposit of IgM. Anti‐MAG neuropathy and CIPD patients showed a decrease in epidermal nerve fiber density reflecting an associated axonal loss. In anti‐MAG neuropathy, both large‐ and small‐diameter nerve fibers are affected, and specific deposits of IgM are found on skin myelinated nerve fibers. Ann Neurol 2005;57:180–187
Blood–brain barrier dysfunction in parkinsonian midbrain in vivo
Authors: Kortekaas Rudie , Leenders Klaus L. , van Oostrom Joost C. H. , Vaalburg Willem , Bart Joost , Willemsen Antoon T. M. , Hendrikse N. Harry
Published: January 2005

Parkinson's disease (PD) is associated with a loss of neurons from the midbrain. The cause of PD is unknown, but it is established that certain neurotoxins can cause similar syndromes. The brain is normally protected from these noxious blood‐borne chemicals by the blood–brain barrier which includes specialized proteins on the inside of blood vessels in the brain. These act as molecular efflux pumps and P‐glycoprotein (P‐gp) is an abundant representative. Vulnerability to PD appears codetermined by the genotype for the P‐gp gene. We hypothesized that PD patients have reduced P‐gp function in the blood–brain barrier. We used positron emission tomography to measure brain uptake of [11C]‐verapamil, which is normally extruded from the brain by P‐gp. Here, we show significantly elevated uptake of [11C]‐verapamil (18%) in the midbrain of PD patients relative to controls. This is the first evidence supporting a dysfunctional blood–brain barrier as a causative mechanism in PD. Ann Neurol 2005;57:176–179
Intraputamenal infusion of glial cell line–derived neurotrophic factor in PD: A two‐year outcome study
Authors: Patel Nikunj K. , Bunnage Martin , Plaha Puneet , Svendsen Clive N. , Heywood Peter , Gill Steven S.
Published: January 2005

We have shown previously that intraparenchymal infusion of glial cell line–derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) continuously into the posterior putamen in five Parkinson's disease patients is safe and may represent a new treatment option. Here, we report a continuation of this phase I study. After 2 years of continual GDNF infusion, there were no serious clinical side effects and no significant detrimental effects on cognition. Patients showed a 57% and 63% improvement in their off‐medication motor and activities of daily living subscores of the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale, respectively, and health‐related quality‐of‐life measures (Parkinson's Disease Questionnaire–39 and Short Form–36) showed general improvement over time. Ann Neurol 2005;57:298–302
Confirmation of a hereditary motor and sensory neuropathy IIC locus at chromosome 12q23‐q24
Authors: McEntagart Meriel E. , Reid Sarah L. , Irtthum Alexandre , Douglas Jenny B. , Eyre Keith E. D. , Donaghy Michael J. , Anderson Neil E. , Rahman Nazneen
Published: January 2005

Hereditary motor and sensory neuropathy type IIC (HMSN IIC) is an autosomal dominant axonal neuropathy. The cardinal features include distal muscle wasting and weakness, vocal cord paralysis, and mild sensory impairment. Recently, HMSN IIC locus was mapped to chromosome 12q23‐24. Two families affected by HMSN IIC were identified and evaluated for linkage to this region. Segregation analysis in both families was consistent with linkage to chromosome 12q23‐24. Combined analysis generated a multipoint LOD score of 2.1 at marker D12S1583 and refined the HMSN IIC gene interval to The clinical and molecular findings are discussed.Ann Neurol 2005;57:293–297
Mutations in ZASP define a novel form of muscular dystrophy in humans
Authors: Selcen Duygu , Engel Andrew G.
Published: January 2005

Myofibrillar myopathy (MFM) is a morphologically distinct disorder in which disintegration of the Z‐disk and then of the myofibrils is followed by abnormal accumulation of multiple proteins. Mutations in desmin, αB‐crystallin, and myotilin, all Z‐disk–related proteins, cause MFM in the minority of cases. ZASP (a Z‐band alternatively spliced PDZ motif‐containing protein) is another Z‐disk–associated protein, and targeted deletion of ZASP in mouse causes skeletal and cardiac myopathy. We therefore searched for mutations in ZASP in 54 MFM patients and detected 3 heterozygous missense mutations in 11. Their age at onset was 44 to 73 years. Dominant inheritance was apparent in seven patients, cardiac involvement in three, and signs of peripheral neuropathy in five. Most patients had proximal and distal weakness, but in six, the weakness was greater distally than proximally. Ten carried either of two mutations in exon 6 (A147T and A165V) at or within a motif important in linking ZASP to the Z‐disk; one carried a missense mutation in exon 9 (R268C). We conclude that (1) mutations in ZASP cause stereotyped MFM pathology; (2) cardiomyopathy, distal more than proximal weakness, and neuropathy are in the spectrum of zaspopathy; and (3) mutations in ZASP define a novel form of autosomal dominant muscular dystrophy in humans. Ann Neurol 2005;57:269–276
Bone mass and turnover in women with epilepsy on antiepileptic drug monotherapy
Authors: Pack Alison M. , Morrell Martha J. , Marcus Robert , Holloway Leah , Flaster Edith , Doñe Silvia , Randall Alison , Seale Cairn , Shane Elizabeth
Published: January 2005

Antiepileptic drugs, particularly cytochrome P450 enzyme inducers, are associated with disorders of bone metabolism. We studied premenopausal women with epilepsy receiving antiepileptic drug monotherapy (phenytoin, carbamazepine, valproate, and lamotrigine). Subjects completed exercise and nutrition questionnaires and bone mineral density studies. Serum was analyzed for indices of bone metabolism including calcium, 25‐hydroxyvitamin D, parathyroid hormone, insulin growth factor I, insulin binding protein III, and bone formation markers, bone‐specific alkaline phosphatase, and osteocalcin. Urine was analyzed for cross‐linked N‐telopeptide of type I collagen, a bone resorption marker. Calcium concentrations were significantly less in subjects receiving carbamazepine, phenytoin, and valproate than in those receiving lamotrigine (p = 0.008). Insulin growth factor‐I was significantly reduced in subjects receiving phenytoin compared with those receiving lamotrigine (p = 0.017). Subjects receiving phenytoin had significantly greater levels of bone‐specific alkaline phosphatase (p = 0.007). Our results demonstrate that phenytoin is associated with changes in bone metabolism and increased bone turnover. The lower calcium concentrations in subjects taking carbamazepine or valproate compared with those taking other antiepileptic drugs suggest that these antiepileptic drugs may have long‐term effects. Subjects receiving lamotrigine had no significant reductions in calcium or increases in markers of bone turnover, suggesting this agent is less likely to have long‐term adverse effects on bone. Ann Neurol 2005;57:252–257
Gene expression profile of spinal motor neurons in sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Jiang Yue‐Mei , Yamamoto Masahiko , Kobayashi Yasushi , Yoshihara Tsuyoshi , Liang Yideng , Terao Shinichi , Takeuchi Hideyuki , Ishigaki Shinsuke , Katsuno Masahisa , Adachi Hiroaki , Niwa Jun‐Ichi , Tanaka Fumiaki , Doyu Manabu , Yoshida Mari , Hashizume Yoshio , Sobue Gen
Published: January 2005

The causative pathomechanism of sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is not clearly understood. Using microarray technology combined with laser‐captured microdissection, gene expression profiles of degenerating spinal motor neurons isolated from autopsied patients with sporadic ALS were examined. Gene expression was quantitatively assessed by real‐time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and in situ hybridization. Spinal motor neurons showed a distinct gene expression profile from the whole spinal ventral horn. Three percent of genes examined were downregulated, and 1% were upregulated in motor neurons. Downregulated genes included those associated with cytoskeleton/axonal transport, transcription, and cell surface antigens/receptors, such as dynactin, microtubule‐associated proteins, and early growth response 3 (EGR3). In contrast, cell death–associated genes were mostly upregulated. Promoters for cell death pathway, death receptor 5, cyclins A1 and C, and caspases‐1, ‐3, and ‐9, were upregulated, whereas cell death inhibitors, acetyl‐CoA transporter, and NF‐κB were also upregulated. Moreover, neuroprotective neurotrophic factors such as ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF), Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), and glial cell line–derived neurotrophic factor were upregulated. Inflammation‐related genes, such as those belonging to the cytokine family, were not, however, significantly upregulated in either motor neurons or ventral horns. The motor neuron–specific gene expression profile in sporadic ALS can provide direct information on the genes leading to neurodegeneration and neuronal death and are helpful for developing new therapeutic strategies. Ann Neurol 2005;57:236–251
Extracellular metabolites in the cortex and hippocampus of epileptic patients
Authors: Cavus Idil , Kasoff Willard S. , Cassaday Michael P. , Jacob Ralph , Gueorguieva Ralitza , Sherwin Robert S. , Krystal John H. , Spencer Dennis D. , Abi‐Saab Walid M.
Published: January 2005

Interictal brain energy metabolism and glutamate–glutamine cycling are impaired in epilepsy and may contribute to seizure generation. We used the zero‐flow microdialysis method to measure the extracellular levels of glutamate, glutamine, and the major energy substrates glucose and lactate in the epileptogenic and the nonepileptogenic cortex and hippocampus of 38 awake epileptic patients during the interictal period. Depth electrodes attached to microdialysis probes were used to identify the epileptogenic and the nonepileptogenic sites. The epileptogenic hippocampus had surprisingly high basal glutamate levels, low glutamine/glutamate ratio, high lactate levels, and indication for poor glucose utilization. The epileptogenic cortex had only marginally increased glutamate levels. We propose that interictal energetic deficiency in the epileptogenic hippocampus could contribute to impaired glutamate reuptake and glutamate–glutamine cycling, resulting in persistently increased extracellular glutamate, glial and neuronal toxicity, increased lactate production together with poor lactate and glucose utilization, and ultimately worsening energy metabolism. Our data suggest that a different neurometabolic process underlies the neocortical epilepsies. Ann Neurol 2005;57:226–235
Three‐centre RhHSn bonds: an NMR study of the effects of varying the electron density on rhodium
Authors: Carlton Laurence
Published: January 2005

The complexes [Rh(X)(H)(SnPh3)(PPh3)(L)] (X = NCBPh3 (a), N(CN)2 (b), NCS (c), NCO (d), N3 (e); L = 1‐methylimidazole) (1) show systematic changes in δ(119Sn), δ(103Rh), J(119Sn–1H) and J(119Sn–103Rh) that are related to the electron‐donating properties of X. As X becomes more electron‐rich, δ(103Rh), J(119Sn–1H) and J(119Sn–103Rh) increase and δ119Sn) decreases. The related complexes trans‐[Rh(X)(H)(SnPh3)(PPh3)2(L)] (X = N(CN)2, NCO; L = 4‐carboxymethylpyridine (x), pyridine (y) and 4‐dimethylaminopyridine (z)) (2), show a continuation of the trends in δ(119Sn) and J(119Sn–1H), but not δ(103Rh) or J(119Sn–103Rh). Data for 1 and 2 show that within certain limits of type of ligand varied (X = N‐donor, L = a pyridine) and coordination geometry, the response of δ(119Sn) and J(119Sn–1H) to changes in electron density on rhodium is largely independent of the means by which the change is effected.Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Catalytic activity of some organolanthanoid derivatives in styrene and propene polymerization
Authors: Kirillov Evgueni N. , Fedorova Elena A. , Trifonov Alexander A. , Bochkarev Mikhail N.
Published: January 2005

Organolanthanoids of several classes were examined as potential styrene and propene polymerization catalysts. They are: molecular hydrides of divalent lanthanoids (samarium, europium, ytterbium); naphthalene and stilbene complexes of neodymium(III), samarium(II), europium(II), ytterbium(II), lutetium(III); amides and alkoxides (including heterobifunctional derivatives) of praseodymium(III), neodymium(III), samarium(II), europium(II), thulium(III), ytterbium(II, III); thiolate of samarium(III); phenyl and phenylethinyl derivatives of europium(II), thulium(III), ytterbium(II); methylytterbium cluster Yb8 (μ‐CH3)14(μ‐CH2)(THF)6; heterobimetallic samarium(II), ytterbium(II, III) complexes; diazabutadiene ytterbium(III) derivatives; metallic praseodymium and ytterbium, activated by iodine. The highest activity in styrene polymerization revealed hydrides, naphthalene and stilbene complexes of samarium(II), europium(II) and ytterbium(II). In the propene polymerization only [(η5‐C5H4)CH2CH­(CH2OBu)(η1‐O)]YbMe(THF) displayed noticeable activity.Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Organometallic complexes with biological molecules. XV. Effects of tributyltin(IV)chloride on enzyme activity, Ca2+, and biomolecule and synthesis in Ciona intestinalis (Urochordata) ovary
Authors: Puccia E. , Mansueto C. , Cangialosi M. V. , Fiore T. , Di Stefano R. , Pellerito C. , Triolo F. , Pellerito L.
Published: January 2005

Considerable attention has been given in recent years to the possibility that xenobiotics in the environment may affect reproduction in animals. In this study, the relative impact of tributyltin(IV) (TBT) chloride, one of the most toxic environmental pollutants, was investigated using Ciona intestinalis ovary as a model system. The pleiotropic effects of TBT exposure are concentration dependent and include a decrease of ATP levels, lipid content and nucleic acid content and synthesis. In contrast, a marked increase in calcium (Ca2+) and glucose content is observed. Furthermore, TBT alters enzymatic activity, inhibiting creatine kinase and stimulating alkaline phosphatase and cholinesterase (at concentrations higher than 10−5M in sterile sea water solution). The implications of these effects on reproduction and embryonal development are discussed, along with the possibility that they reflect an extreme cellular defence mechanism triggered to avoid deleterious consequences for the survival of the species.Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis, antitumor activity and crystal structure of the triphenyltin derivative of exo‐7‐oxa‐bicyclo[2,2,1]hept‐5‐ene‐3‐N‐p‐tolylamide‐2‐acid
Authors: Li Jinshan , Ma Yongqiang , Liu Runchang , Li Jing
Published: January 2005

The synthesis and crystal structure of­Ph3SnO2CCHCHCH:CHCH(O)CHCONHC6H4­CH3·CH2Cl2 are reported. The monomer units­are bridged by the carbonyl oxygen of the amide group, thus forming a polymer in which each tin atom is best described as having a distorted five‐coordinate geometry. There is a relatively strong intramolecular hydrogen bond between the amide hydrogen and the ether oxygen. The in vitro antitumor activities of the title compound against HL‐60, BGC‐823, Bel‐7402, SKOV3, KB and Hela tumor lines are reported. The title compound shows a distinct advantage when the metal (tin) is introduced into the acid.Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Rhodium‐ and ruthenium‐complex‐catalyzed condensation of ferrocene‐containing dithiols and diols with diarylsilanes to give silaferrocenophanes and ferrocene polymers
Authors: Yamaguchi Isao , Ishii Hidetake , Sakano Tatsuaki , Osakada Kohtaro , Yamamoto Takakazu
Published: January 2005

1,1′‐Ferrocenedithiol reacts with di(4‐methoxyphenyl)silane, diphenylsilane, and di(4‐fluorophenyl)silane in the presence of RhCl(PPh3)3 catalyst to give mixtures of 2,2‐diaryl‐1,3‐dithia‐2‐sila[3]ferrocenophanes (1a–3a) and (FcSSiAr2S)
n (Fc = 1,1′‐ferrocenylene; 1b: Ar = C6H4OMe‐4; 2b: Ar = Ph; 3b: Ar = C6H4F‐4). The products are isolated and characterized by NMR spectroscopy and elemental analyses. The polymers 1b–3b, obtained from a toluene‐soluble fraction of the products, show GPC elution patterns corresponding to Mn values of 2700–4600 (polystyrene standards). The UV–vis spectra of the ferrocenophanes and polymers exhibit a d–d transition peak at about 440 nm, while the polymers show a π–π* transition peak at 320–330 nm. The cyclic voltammograms of 3a (Ar = C6H4F − 4) and 3b show a reversible redox of the iron center at 0.27 V and 0.35 V (Ag+/Ag) respectively. Reaction of 1,1′‐ferrocenedimethanol with diphenylsilane in the presence of RuCl2(PPh3)3 catalyst results in selective formation of 3,3‐diphenyl‐2,4‐dioxa‐3‐sila[5]ferrocenophane (4), whose structure was determined by X‐ray crystallography. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Various ligand‐stabilized metal nanoclusters as homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysts in the liquid phase
Authors: Toshima Naoki , Shiraishi Yukihide , Teranishi Toshiharu , Miyake Mikio , Tominaga Toshihiro , Watanabe Hiroshi , Brijoux Werner , Bönnemann Helmut , Schmid Günter
Published: January 2005

Ligand‐stabilized noble metal nanoclusters, prepared by various chemical methods by different research groups in Japan and Germany, were characterized and examined by a common method for application to the catalysis for hydrogenation of olefins in homogeneous and heterogeneous systems in the liquid phase. The mean diameters of palladium, platinum, rhodium and Pd/Pt nanoclusters stabilized by various ligands range from 1.3 to 3.2 nm if prepared by a single reaction, and from 2.2 to 4.0 nm if prepared by a stepwise growth method. The Stokes radii of metal nanoclusters stabilized by surfactants range from 1.7 to 2.1 nm, suggesting a thickness of the protective layer from 1.1 to 1.4 nm, whereas those stabilized by polymers give much larger values, suggesting the formation of aggregates. The catalytic activities of the metal nanoclusters, evaluated by hydrogenation of 1,3‐cyclooctadiene and methyl acrylate, depend mainly upon the particle size, i.e. the smaller the size, the higher the activity. However, a strongly interacting ligand like tetraoctylammonium halide and 1,10‐phenanthroline can disturb the hydrogenation. In contrast, the activities of heterogeneous catalysts supported on charcoal depend strongly on the covering strength of the stabilizer. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The effect of phenyltin chlorides on the phase polymorphism of dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine
Authors: Różycka‐Roszak Bożenna , Pruchnik Hanna
Published: January 2005

The effects of diphenyltin dichloride (DPhT) and triphenyltin chloride (TPhT) on polymorphic phase behaviour of aqueous dispersions of a dipalmitoylphosphatidylcholine (DPPC) bilayer were investigated by means of
31P NMR. It is suggested that DPhT induces interdigitated gel phase formation and TPhT induces hexagonal phase formation. The toxic activities of DPhT and TPhT seem to be connected with their ability to induce changes in the membrane structure. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Di‐n‐butyltin(IV) derivatives of bis(carboxymethyl)benzylamines: synthesis, NMR and X‐ray structure characterization and in vitro antitumour properties
Authors: Mancilla Teresa , Carrillo Lourdes , Zamudio Rivera Luis S. , Camacho Camacho Carlos , Vos Dick de , Kiss Robert , Darro Francis , Mahieu Bernard , Tiekink Edward R. T. , Rahier Hubert , Gielen Marcel , Kemmer Martine , Biesemans Monique , Willem Rudolph
Published: January 2005

Four di‐n‐butyltin(IV) derivatives of bis(carboxymethyl)benzylamines were synthesized and their structure characterized by 1H,13C and ­117/119Sn NMR, Mössbauer spectroscopy and mass spectrometry. The derivative substituted in the meta position by a methyl group has been further characterized by X‐ray crystallography. This compound exhibits a distorted trigonal bipyramidal geometry at tin. The NMR data in solution, as well as other spectroscopic results in the solid state, confirm this structure for all the compounds. Evidence is provided to show that the compounds are more highly associated in concentrated solution than in the solid state. Their in vitro antitumour activity is reported. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Development of a bio‐based composite material from soybean oil and keratin fibers
Authors: Hong Chang K. , Wool Richard P.
Published: January 2005

A novel bio‐based composite material, suitable for electronic as well as automotive and aeronautical applications, was developed from soybean oils and keratin feather fibers (KF). This environmentally friendly, low‐cost composite can be a substitute for petroleum‐based composite materials. Keratin fibers are a hollow, light, and tough material and are compatible with several soybean (S) resins, such as acrylated epoxidized soybean oil (AESO). The new KFS lightweight composites have a density ρ ≈ 1 g/cm3, when the KF volume fraction is 30%. The hollow keratin fibers were not filled by resin infusion and the composite retained a significant volume of air in the hollow structure of the fibers. Due to the retained air, the dielectric constant, k, of the composite material was in the range of 1.7–2.7, depending on the fiber volume fraction, and these values are significantly lower than the conventional silicon dioxide or epoxy, or polymer dielectric insulators. The coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) of the 30 wt % composite was 67.4 ppm/°C; this value is low enough for electronic application and similar to the value of silicon materials or polyimides used in printed circuit boards. The water absorption of the AESO polymer was 0.5 wt % at equilibrium and the diffusion coefficient in the KFS composites was dependent on the keratin fiber content. The incorporation of keratin fibers in the soy oil polymer enhanced the mechanical properties such as storage modulus, fracture toughness, and flexural properties, ca. 100% increase at 30 vol %. The fracture energy of a single keratin fiber in the composite was determined to be about 3 kJ/m2 with a fracture stress of about 100–200 MPa. Considerable improvements in the KFS composite properties should be possible by optimization of the resin structure and fiber selection. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 95: 1524–1538, 2005
New melamine‐formaldehyde‐ketone polymers: I. Synthesis of reactive solvents of melamine from selected ketones
Authors: Głowacz‐Czerwonka Dorota , Kucharski Mieczysław
Published: January 2005

Reactive solvents of melamine were prepared by reacting ketones with an excess of formaldehyde in the presence of triethylamine catalyst. The ketones used were cyclohexanone, cyclopentanone, acetophenone, benzoylacetone, biacetyl, or ethyl‐methyl ketone. The structures of the resulting reactive solvents were studied by 1H‐NMR. The best solubility of melamine was observed for the solvent derived from ethyl‐methyl ketone. Preliminary attempts at curing the melamine solutions yielded melamine‐formaldehyde‐ketone polymers. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 95:1319–1332, 2005
Effect of AgNO3–MnCl2 mixed fillers on the physical properties of polystyrene films
Authors: Tawansi A. , El‐Khodary A. , Oraby A. H. , Youssef A. E.
Published: January 2005

This study deals with the effects of various filling levels of a mixture of two transition compounds [(X)AgNO3(10 − X)MnCl2] on the structural, electrical, and magnetic properties of atactic polystyrene (PS) films. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) scans showed two main peaks for unfilled PS films. Crystalline peaks were unexpectedly detected with the filling and could be correlated to the formation of clusters. The IR transmission spectra revealed characteristic PS peaks. Certain IR peaks could be taken as evidence for the formation of polaron and bipolaron bound states in the polymeric matrix. The direct‐current (DC) electrical conduction measurements suggested that the conduction mechanism could be attributed to phonon‐assisted charge carrier hopping according to the interpolaron hopping model. The DC magnetic susceptibility results at 90–235 K obeyed the Curie–Weiss law. The negative values of the paramagnetic Curie temperature (θp) indicated the possibility of an antiferromagnetic exchange interaction, whereas the positive values of θp suggested a ferromagnetic exchange interaction at low temperatures. An electron spin resonance (ESR) spectrum at X = 0% revealed a broad Lorentzian signal. This suggested the presence of aggregated Mn2+ and was confirmation of cluster formation found in XRD studies. On the other hand, ESR spectra at higher values of X depicted hyperfine structures characterized by the six unresolved lines of the manganese nucleus, indicating the existence of isolated Mn2+. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 95:1333–1341, 2005
Preparation of novel syndiotactic poly(vinyl alcohol) microspheres through the low‐temperature suspension copolymerization of vinyl pivalate and vinyl acetate and heterogeneous saponification
Authors: Lee Se Geun , Kim Jae Pil , Lyoo Won Seok , Kwak Jin Woo , Noh Seok Kyun , Park Chan Sik , Kim Jae Hyun
Published: January 2005

Syndiotactic poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA)/poly(vinyl pivalate/vinyl acetate) [P(VPi/VAc)] microspheres, with a skin–core structure, were prepared through the heterogeneous saponification of copolymers of vinyl pivalate (VPi) and vinyl acetate (VAc). For the preparation of P(VPi/VAc) microspheres with various particle sizes and a uniform particle size distribution (which are promising precursors of syndiotactic PVA embolic materials to be introduced through catheters for the management of gastrointestinal bleeders, arteriovenous malformations, hemangiomas, and traumatic rupture of blood vessels), VPi and VAc were suspension‐copolymerized at 30°C with a room‐temperature initiator, 2,2′‐azobis(2,4‐dimethylvaleronitrile). The effects of the polymerization conditions were investigated in terms of the size and size distribution of the suspension particles. P(VPi/VAc) microspheres, with various syndiotactic dyad (s‐dyad) contents, were produced through the control of the monomer feed ratio. In addition, monodisperse P(VPi/VAc) particles of various particle diameters were obtained by the separation and sieving of the polymerization product. Monodisperse P(VPi/VAc) microspheres of various particle sizes were partially saponified in the heterogeneous system, and the effects of the particle size and particle size distribution on the saponification rate were investigated in terms of the tacticity and the saponification time and temperature. Novel skin–core PVA/P(VPi/VAc) microspheres of various s‐dyad contents and degrees of saponification were successfully produced through the control of the various polymerization and saponification parameters. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 95: 1539–1548, 2005
Polysiloxane resins modified by bisglycidyl calix[4]arene: Preparation, characterization, and adsorption behavior toward metal ions
Authors: Li Cheng , Gong Shu‐Ling , Meng Ling‐Zhi , Hu Ling , Huang Huang , He Yong‐Bing
Published: January 2005

Two porous polysiloxane resins were prepared by the ring‐opening polycondensation of epoxy groups of bisglycidyl calix[4]arene with amino groups of polysiloxane microparticles that were prepared by the sol–gel method of cohydrolysis and condensation from γ‐aminopropyltriethoxysilane (RSC‐I) or 4‐aza‐6‐aminohexyltriethoxysilane (RSC‐II) with tetraethylorthosilicate. The resins were characterized by elemental analysis, DR–Fourier transform infrared spectra, Raman scattering spectra, scanning electron micrographs, and thermogravimetric analysis. The porous polysiloxane resins exhibited high thermostability and preconcentration potential for divalent Cu, Pb, and Hg ions, especially for the trivalent auric ion, relative to both the special cavity and the network structure of polysiloxane resins. The nitrogen atoms in resins also exert some auxiliary action. The enthalpy of the adsorption of two resins toward trivalent auric ion was evaluated to be 6.83 and 8.04 kJ/mol for RSC‐I and RSC‐II, respectively. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals,Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 95: 1310–1318, 2005
Relaxation phenomenon of poly(vinyl alcohol)/sodium carboxy methyl cellulose blend by thermally stimulated depolarization currents and thermal sample technique
Authors: Abd El‐Kader F. H. , Shehap A. M. , Abo‐Ellil M. S. , Mahmoud K. H.
Published: January 2005

The dipolar relaxation in poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA), sodium carboxy methyl cellulose (NaCMCs), and their blends were studied using a thermally stimulated depolarization current (TSDC) technique. The mutual effects of polarization conditions such as heating rate, poling temperature, time, and field on the properties of TSDC were investigated. Quantitative analysis of the experimental data is given in terms of dipolar and space charge polarization. A thermal sampling (TS) technique was applied to decompose the complex relaxations in individual polymers and their blend of 0.5/0.5 wt/wt into its normal distribution components. The activation energy of TS‐formed electrets was determined by fitting the experimental curve to Bucci and Fieschi equations. Peak parameters such as activation energy and preexponential factor τ0 were obtained. A linear relationship between the activation energy and logarithm of the preexponential factor was found, thus confirming operation of the compensation law. In addition, by using the Eyring equation of the rate theory, the activation enthalpy ΔH≠ and the activation entropy ΔS≠ were calculated. © 2005 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 95: 1342–1353, 2005