bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Human liver regeneration: Hepatic energy economy is less efficient when the organ is diseased
Authors: Mann Darren V. , Lam Wynnie W. M. , Hjelm Magnus N. , So Nina M. C. , Yeung David K. W. , Metreweli Constantine , Lau Wan Y.
Published: August 2002

Recovery of liver cell mass following hepatectomy requires a metabolic compromise between differentiated function and organ regrowth. Clinical experience has shown that hepatic failure after resection is more common when the organ is diseased. We have evaluated intracellular hepatic biochemistry in patients with normal and cirrhotic livers undergoing partial hepatectomy, using 31-phosphorus magnetic resonance spectroscopy (31P MRS). Eighteen patients were studied, half with normal liver architecture (normal group, n = 9) and half with cirrhotic parenchyma (cirrhosis group, n = 9). Magnetic resonance examinations were performed preoperatively and on postoperative days 2, 4, 6, 14, and 28. Hepatic volume (estimated by magnetic resonance imaging [MRI]) and blood chemistries were measured at the same intervals. Following a comparable reduction in parenchymal volume, the cirrhotic group demonstrated a more sustained fall in adenosine triphosphate (ATP) energy state. Disturbance of membrane phospholipid metabolism and duration of acute-phase reaction were more marked when the liver was diseased. The pattern of derangement of hepatic function, however, was similar in the two groups. Overall, the recovery process was less efficient in the cirrhotic organ, and culminated in a diminished rate and extent of the regenerative response. These outcomes indicate that liver regeneration after partial hepatectomy involves modulation of hepatic energy economy in response to changing work demands. The efficiency of this process is influenced by the histopathologic state of the organ, and in turn governs the physiologic reserve. These findings may explain the mechanism of posthepatectomy liver failure, and offer a rational basis for the assessment of novel hepatic support strategies. (Hepatology 2001;34:557-565.)
Geographic distribution of hepatitis B virus (HBV) genotype in patients with chronic HBV infection in Japan
Authors: Orito Etsuro , Ichida Takafumi , Sakugawa Hiroshi , Sata Michio , Horiike Norio , Hino Keisuke , Okita Kiwamu , Okanoue Takeshi , Iino Shiro , Tanaka Eiji , Suzuki Kazuyuki , Watanabe Hisayoshi , Hige Shuhei , Mizokami Masashi
Published: August 2002

The geographic distribution of hepatitis B virus (HBV) genotypes in Japan and its clinical relevance are poorly understood. We studied 731 Japanese patients with chronic HBV infection. HBV genotype was determined by the restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) method after polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Of the 720 patients with positive PCR, 12 (1.7%) were HBV genotype A, 88 (12.2%) were genotype B, 610 (84.7%) were genotype C, 3 (0.4%) were genotype D, and 7 (1.0%) were of mixed genotype. Over 94% of patients on the Japanese mainland had genotype C, while 60% of the patients on Okinawa, the most southern islands, and 22.9% in the Tohoku area, the northern part of the mainland, harbored genotype B. Compared with genotype C patients, genotype B patients were older (53.6 to 42.2 years; P < .01), had a lower rate of positive hepatitis B e antigen (HBeAg) (18.4% to 50.6%; P < .01), and a lower level of serum HBV DNA (5.02 to 5.87 log genome equivalents (LGE)/mL; P < .01). The mean age of the genotype B patients with hepatocellular carcinoma was 70.1 ± 9.2 years, compared with 55.2 ± 9.7 of genotype C patients (P < .01). These results indicate that genotypes C and B are predominant in Japan, and there are significant differences in geographic distribution and clinical characteristics among the patients with the different genotypes. (Hepatology 2001;34:590-594.)
Recombinant Tissue Plasminogen Activator for Central Venous Access Device Occlusion
Authors: Hooke Casey
Published: August 2002

Maintaining and restoring the function of central venous access devices (CVAD) is an important component of pediatric oncology nursing care. Until 1999, Abbokinase Open Cath (urokinase; Abbott, Abbott Park, IL), a thrombolytic agent was the product primarily used to resolve thrombotic occlusions in intravascular devices. Changes in the manufacturing process mandated by the FDA have resulted in a lack of availability of Abbokinase Open Cath. Recombi nant tissue plasminogen activator (TPA) has provided an alternative solution for clearing occluded intravascular devices. This article reviews the literature supporting the use of TPA for CVAD clearance and discusses the process of how to administer the medication. Future implications for research about the use of TPA, and its role in the care of CVADs are discussed.
Prepubic Urethrostomy: A Long‐Term Study in 16 Cats
Authors: Baines S. J. , Rennie S. , White R. S. A.
Published: August 2002

Objective— To investigate the indications for and long‐term outcome of prepubic urethrostomy (PPU) in the cat.

Study Design— Retrospective survey.

Animals— Sixteen cats that had undergone PPU.

Methods— Data were recovered from the medical records of the cats. Follow‐up information was obtained from the owners and referring veterinarians.

Results— Indications for PPU were: failed perineal urethrostomy for the management of idiopathic lower urinary tract disease (ILUTD) (8 cats) or urethral trauma (1 cat); unresolved pelvic urethral obstruction after recurrent ILUTD (5 cats); and stenosis of the pelvic urethra as a result of trauma (2 cats). A patent urethral stoma was created in all cases. Signs of lower urinary tract disease were present in 8 cats postoperatively. With appropriate dietary management, these signs resolved in 2 cats and improved in another 4 cats. Eleven cats experienced postoperative complications that consisted of peristomal skin irritation or necrosis (7 cats) and urinary incontinence (6 cats). Complications developed in the immediate postoperative period in 6 cats, and resolved in 2 of these. Six cats developed late complications, at 6 to 84 months postoperatively. Six cats were euthanatized between 1 and 26 months' postoperatively. The mean survival time in these cats was 13 months. Reasons for euthanasia included urinary incontinence (3 cats), skin necrosis (2 cats), and unresolvable ILUTD (1 cat).

Conclusions— PPU is a salvage procedure that is successful in relieving the signs of urinary tract obstruction and preventing further obstruction. However, potential complications should limit its use to cases in which standard techniques for perineal urethrostomy cannot be performed.

Clinical Relevance— PPU is a comparatively simple procedure that should be considered as a salvage technique for obstructive disease of the pelvic urethra.
Evaluation of a Vessel‐Sealing Device for use in Laparoscopic Ovariectomy in Mares
Authors: Hand Reese , Rakestraw Peter , Taylor Tex
Published: August 2002

Objective—To evaluate a vessel‐sealing instrument (LigaSure™) as a method for hemostasis of the ovarian vasculature.

Study design—Prospective study.

Animals or sample population—Thirteen mares (8 experimental, 5 patients), aged 2 to 20 years and weighing 405 to 500 kg.

Methods—Thirteen mares had standing bilateral laparoscopic ovariectomy using a vessel‐sealing device (LigaSure) to provide hemostasis. Eight reproductively normal experimental mares were divided into 2 groups: 1 group was re‐examined laparoscopically 72 hours and the other group 10 days after the initial standing laparoscopic ovariectomy. The vessel‐sealing device uses high current and low voltage, along with pressure, to reorganize the collagen into a translucent seal to achieve hemostasis of the ovarian vasculature.

Results—No major operative or postoperative complications were encountered. Complete hemostasis of the ovarian pedicle was accomplished. One mare had a fever for 24 hours' postoperatively; this responded to a single dose of flunixin meglumine.

Conclusions—The LigaSure appears to be a safe method for hemostasis of the ovarian vasculature.

Clinical relevance—Benefits of the LigaSure include no foreign material remaining in the abdomen and minimal to no need for surgical dissection before application. The LigaSure eliminates complications with potential ligature slippage and bleeding during dissection.
Transendoscopic Electrosurgery of an Equine Pulmonary Granular Cell Tumor
Authors: Ohnesorge Bernhard , Gehlen Heidrun , Wohlsein Peter
Published: August 2002

Objective— Description of transendoscopic electrosurgical treatment of a pulmonary granular cell tumor in a horse.

Study design— Case report.

Animals— A 12‐year‐old Standardbred mare.

Methods— After endoscopic examination and transendoscopic biopsy, a granular cell tumor nodule was removed transendoscopically from the right principal bronchus of the sedated horse (0.02 mg/kg detomide intravenous) with a monopolar electrosurgical wire snare. Two days later, the surgical area was irradiated transendoscopically using a Nd‐YAG laser.

Results— After surgery, the horse had no further signs of respiratory disease. Clinical and endoscopic examination and radiography performed 4 times during the following 2 years showed no evidence of recurrence.

Conclusions— Transendoscopic electrosurgical removal of nodular masses located intraluminally in the principal bronchi is possible on the sedated standing horse.

Clinical relevance— Granular tumors are rare lung neoplasms that lead to unspecific signs of a low airway disease. Diagnosis requires endoscopic examination of the large bronchi. Early intraluminal stages can be treated transendoscopically.
Cell Compartmentalization in Redox Signaling
Authors: Pani Giovambattista , Bedogni Barbara , Colavitti Renata , Anzevino Rosanna , Borrello Silvia , Galeotti Tommaso
Published: August 2002

From a growing body of evidence on the role of Reactive Oxygen Species as intracellular signaling molecules, the concept starts to emerge that cell responses to redox changes are function of the intracellular site where oxidants are produced and/or meet their molecular targets. In particular,a major distinction between oxidative events in the cytosolic versus the mitochondrial compartment appears to exist in terms of physiological stimuli, signaling mechanisms and functional consequences. Experimental data supporting this view are reviewed here, and the potential implications of this new perspective in redox signaling are discussed.
Synthesis and Properties of Copper(II) Phthalocyanines with Monoazacrown and Crown Ethers as Peripheral Substituents
Authors: KANDAZ MEHMET , BEKAROĞLU ÖZER
Published: August 2002

Soluble and less soluble phthalocyaninatocopper(II) derivatives (4a and 4b) were prepared from the corresponding 7-[(4′-benzo-15-crown-5)oyl]-15, 16-dibromo-2,3,6,7,8,9,11,12-octahydro-5H-benzo[e]-[1,4,10,13,7] tetraoxaazacyclopentadecine (3a) and 7-(2′-tosylaminoethyl)-15, 16-dibromo-2,3,6,7,8,9,11, 12-octahydro-5H-benzo[e]-[1,4,10,13,7] tetraoxaazacyclopentadecine (3b) and CuCN in pyridine. A less soluble novel multifunctionalized scorpiand macrocycle-substituted phthalocyanine (4c) in which an NH2CH2CH2— chain is appended to a monoazacrown ether ring was obtained by detosylation of 4b with concentrated sulfuric acid.
Yeast Two-Hybrid Systems and Protein Interaction Mapping Projects for Yeast and Worm
Authors: Walhout Albertha J. M. , Boulton Simon J. , Vidal Marc
Published: August 2002

The availability of complete genome sequences necessitates the development of standardized functional assays to analyse the tens of thousands of predicted gene products in high-throughput experimental settings. Such approaches are collectively referred to as ‘functional genomics’. One approach to investigate the properties of a proteome of interest is by systematic analysis of protein–protein interactions. So far, the yeast two-hybrid system is the most commonly used method for large-scale, high-throughput identification of potential protein–protein interactions. Here, we discuss several technical features of variants of the two-hybrid systems in light of data recently obtained from different protein interaction mapping projects for the budding yeastSaccharomyces cerevisiaeand the nematodeCaenorhabditis elegans.
1H and 13CNMR studies of 1,4,8,11,15,18-hexadecyl-22,25-bis(6-hydroxyhexyl)phthalocyanine and its nickel derivative
Authors: BERGESEN KNUT , HAUGLAND LINDA , COOK MICHAEL J. , BRYANT GEOFFREY C.
Published: August 2002

1,4,8,11,15,18-Hexadecyl-22,25-bis(6-hydroxyhexyl)phthalocyanine and its nickel derivative have been studied by 1 H and 13 C NMR in deuterochloroform solution at ambient probe temperature. The assignments of the proton atoms and carbon atoms in the studied phthalocyanines have been confirmed by 2D COSY NMR and 2D heteronuclear COSY NMR respectively.
Aggression and bullying
Authors: Roland Erling , Idsøe Thormod
Published: August 2002

Models are presented describing how bullying others and being bullied are related to proactive and reactive aggressiveness. This was investigated among 1801 pupils in Norwegian schools at the end of grade five and among 2083 pupils at the end of grade eight. Pupils in the two samples were approximately 11 and 14 years old, respectively. The procedure of structural equation modeling with latent variables was followed using LISREL 8.30 to estimate the parameters. Analyses were conducted for boys and girls separately at fifth and eighth grades. Support for the assumptions of factor solution and factorial invariance of the concepts across gender and age was obtained independently from estimating structural parameters. Both proactive and reactive aggressiveness were related to bullying others and to being bullied at Level 5. Among the older pupils, there was a strong relationship between proactive aggressiveness and bullying others, while reactive aggressiveness was much more weakly related to bullying others. Being bullied, on the other hand, was only weakly related to proactive and reactive aggressiveness among the older pupils. Age was therefore an important factor in determining how proactive and reactive aggressiveness were related to bullying. When pupil gender is concerned, power‐related proactive aggressiveness in predicting bullying was a more important factor for boys, while affiliation‐related proactive aggressiveness was a more powerful factor for girls. Aggr. Behav. 27:446–462, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Agonistic behavior and growth in newly emerged brown trout (Salmo trutta L) of sea‐ranched and wild origin
Authors: Hedenskog Mikael , Petersson Erik , Järvi Torbjörn
Published: August 2002

Selection experiments and game theory models have revealed that the changes in agonistic behavior following selection for rapid growth rate of fish depend on the access of food. If food is spatially restricted and in excess of demand, the intensity of agonistic behaviors will decrease. This prediction was tested in an experiment on wild and sea‐ranched brown trout (Salmo trutta L.) fry originating from a common stock. Agonistic behavior, activity, and specific growth rate were studied in tanks (56 × 56 cm) at high (159.4 fry/m2) and low (9.6 fry/m2) stocking densities given either a large or small food ration (3.0% and 1.5%, respectively, food per total body weight and day). Observations were done during 4 days in each trial. Generally, fry of sea‐ranched origin had a higher growth rate. No differences in activity were found. Intensity of agonistic behavior was higher among wild groups. There was a tendency for interaction between density and strain, e.g., wild fish were relatively more aggressive at higher densities. Food ration had no effect on level of agonistic behavior. These results indicate that the selection for rapid growth in hatcheries may indirectly select for reduced aggressiveness. Genetic integrity and diversity of wild populations may be threatened when interbreeding occurs between wild and hatchery fish. Aggr. Behav. 28:145–153, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
On the design of adaptive notch filters
Authors: Clarke D. W.
Published: August 2002

In instrumentation and other applications, the on‐line estimation of the frequency and amplitude of a noise‐corrupted sinewave is of great practical interest. Recently an adaptive notch filter (ANF) with global convergence properties has been developed, and is a candidate approach to our problem. This paper analyses the transient and noise properties of this ANF and equips the method with design equations. Using frequency ranges greater than (up to 2 decades) and signal/noise ratios less than (down to −16 dB) those commonly found in the ANF literature, it is verified by extensive simulations that the new frequency estimator has excellent tracking and noise‐rejection properties, provided that the signal/noise ratio is not too small. A comparison is made of its behaviour with that of a phase‐locked loop, a method commonly used in practice. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
CD56 expression in myeloperoxidase‐negative FAB M5 acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Delgado Julio , Morado Marta , Jimenez Mª Carmen , Garcia‐Grande Arancha , Hernandez‐Navarro Fernando
Published: August 2002

CD56 is a natural killer (NK) cell marker that has been identified in approximately 15–20% of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) cases, where it has been associated with monocytic morphology and chromosomal abnormalities such as trisomy 8, t(8;21), t(15;17), and 11q23 rearrangements. The clinical presentation, chromosomal abnormalities as detected by fluorescent in‐situ hybridization (FISH), and clinical outcomes of 7 patients with AML are presented. These cases were characterized by French‐American‐British (FAB) M5 morphology, myeloperoxidase (MPO) negativity, and co‐expression of myelomonocytic and NK cell‐associated antigens (CD11c+, CD13+, CD15+, CD33+, HLA‐DR+, and CD56+). All patients presented lymph node, hepatic, or splenic involvement at diagnosis. Despite the homogeneous morphologic and immunophenotypic characteristics the outcomes varied considerably. Two patients died during induction therapy, but the other five patients attained complete remission (CR). Of these five patients, 4 have received a bone marrow transplantation (autologous or allogeneic) and 3 of them are in CR (median follow‐up: 45 months). The three patients with 11q23 rearrangements had a poor outcome and died of their disease within 1 year of diagnosis. Further studies with a larger group of patients would help establish the actual prognostic value of these morphologic, immunophenotypic and cytogenetic features. Am. J. Hematol. 69:28–30, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Serum transferrin receptor in the evaluation of the iron status in elderly hospitalized patients with anemia
Authors: Joosten Etienne , van Loon Ronny , Billen Jaak , Blanckaert Norbert , Fabri Ria , Pelemans Walter
Published: August 2002

The aim of the present study is to evaluate in an elderly hospitalized population the diagnostic value of the serum transferrin receptor (sTfR) in distinguishing IDA (iron deficiency anemia) from ACD (anemia of chronic disease) as compared to conventional laboratory tests of iron metabolism, especially serum ferritin. In a prospective study, 34 patients with IDA and 38 patients with ACD (a chronic disorder in 23 and an acute infection in 15) were evaluated using iron status tests including serum transferrin receptor assay. The iron stores were assessed by bone marrow examination. sTfR levels were elevated (>28.1 nmol/L) in 68% of the IDA patients but also in 43% of the patients with ACD‐chronic inflammation and 33% with ACD‐acute infection. Serum ferritin was the best test to differentiate IDA from ACD patients. We conclude that serum ferritin is a more sensitive and specific parameter than the sTfR assay to predict the bone marrow iron status in an elderly anemic population. Am. J. Hematol. 69:1‐6, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effectiveness of platelet transfusions after plasma exchange in adult thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura: A report of two cases
Authors: Coppo P. , Lassoued K. , Mariette X. , Gossot D. , Oksenhendler E. , Adrie C. , Azoulay E. , Schlemmer B. , Clauvel J.P. , Bussel A.
Published: August 2002

Plasma infusion (PI) and plasma exchange (PE) are the most efficient treatment of thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP), allowing achievement of complete remission in 60 to 90% of cases. Life‐threatening bleeding, related to severe thrombocytopenia, is one of the main complications of the disease. Thrombocytopenia may also preclude invasive procedures such as splenectomy, which may be required during the management of TTP. Platelet concentrates transfusions are usually thought to worsen the disease, especially if not associated with the appropriate treatment of this latter, and thus should be avoided. We report hereon 2 patients with TTP who experienced a surgical procedure i.e., a cholecystectomy for a cholecystitis, and a splenectomy for a refractory TTP. In both patients, the surgical procedure was preceded by a 60 mL/kg plasma exchange with solvent/detergent treated plasma as replacement fluid, followed by platelet transfusion, with a corrected count increment of 57.1% (Patient 1) and 69.3% (Patient 2). Using this sequential treatment, the patients did not experience any deterioration of their status. Both patients had a favorable outcome after surgery. However, until such a procedure will be validated on a larger series of patients, it should be restricted to patients presenting with a refractory life‐threatening thrombocytopenia and/or requiring surgery or any kind of invasive procedure. Am. J. Hematol. 68:198–201, 2001. Published 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Genetic variability in the Guahibo population from venezuela
Authors: Moral Pedro , Marini Elisabetta , Estebanup Esther , Mameli Giuseppa Elisa , Succa Valeria , Vona Giuseppe
Published: August 2002

Four communities from Guahibo of Venezuela were analyzed for the genetic variants of nine erythrocyte enzymes and five serum proteins. Of the 14 loci determined, four were monomorphic. Significant frequency differentiation among communities, was present for ESD and TF markers. In general, Guahibo allele frequencies are in the variation ranges described for South American groups. The analysis indicates a relatively higher affinity of Guahibos with other Venezuelan groups within an irregular pattern of genetic distances that are likely related to the complex demographic history of the South American groups. Genetic diversity estimates reveal a moderate degree of genetic structure between the four Guahibo communities. This intra‐tribal variability in Guahibo appears to be lower than in Venezuelan Piaroa but higher than in other Amerindians and could be attributed to a combined effect of low population size and relative isolation of communities. At a continental level, the distribution of genetic diversity is consistent with preferential population movements along the eastern and western coastal areas. Am. J. Hum. Biol. 14:21–28, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Association studies of the CT repeat polymorphism in the 5′ upstream region of the cholecystokinin B receptor gene with panic disorder and schizophrenia in Japanese subjects
Authors: Hattori Eiji , Yamada Kazuo , Toyota Tomoko , Yoshitsugu Kiyoshi , Toru Michio , Shibuya Haruo , Yoshikawa Takeo
Published: August 2002

The tetrapeptide of cholecystokinin (CCK), CCK‐4, is known to induce panic attacks in human subjects, while CCK‐8 is reported to have a therapeutic effect on schizophrenia symptoms. Recently, we have identified a novel microsatellite polymorphism in the 5′ upstream region of the CCK gene and shown a significant association between this polymorphism and panic disorder. In this study, we have investigated the CCK‐B receptor (CCKBR) gene, which is the main constituent of the CCK receptor in the CNS. Recently, a dinucleotide repeat, (CT)n, in the 5′ regulatory region of the CCKBR gene was reported to be associated with panic disorder in Canadian samples. To evaluate an association of the CT repeat with panic disorder and schizophrenia, we genotyped 71 subjects with panic disorder, 154 schizophrenics and 199 controls. However, no evidence of allelic association was found between the polymorphic repeat of the CCKBR gene and either panic disorder or schizophrenia (P = 0.186 and 0.987, respectively). Together with the negative reports on association analyses using other polymorphisms of the CCKBR gene and Japanese samples, the present results exclude a major genetic contribution of the CCKBR gene to susceptibilities to panic disorder and schizophrenia in Japanese cohorts. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Mixed clefting type in Rapp‐Hodgkin syndrome
Authors: Neilson Derek E. , Brunger Jeanne W. , Heeger Shauna , Bamshad Michael , Robin Nathaniel H.
Published: August 2002

Mixed clefting type (MCT) is the rare occurrence of cleft lip, with or without cleft palate, and cleft palate alone in the same pedigree. Here we present a family with Rapp‐Hodgkin syndrome (RHS) that manifests MCT, and use this rare finding to suggest that RHS may be related not only to phenotypically similar syndromes, but seemingly dissimilar ones as well. RHS has obvious phenotypic overlap with other ectodermal dysplasia‐clefting syndromes (EDCS), such as ectrodactyly‐ectodermal dysplasia‐clefting syndrome (EEC) and ankyloblepharon‐ectodermal dysplasia‐clefting syndrome (AEC), all of which show MCT. MCT is also found in the allelic disorders van der Woude syndrome (VDW) and popliteal‐pterygium syndrome (PPS). Therefore, while VDW and PPS have little clinical overlap with the EDCS, the common finding of MCT may indicate closer relationships at the developmental or genetic level. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Niemann‐Pick disease type B: An unusual clinical presentation with multiple vertebral fractures*
Authors: Volders P. , Van Hove J. , Lories R.J.U. , Vandekerckhove Ph. , Matthijs G. , De Vos R. , Vanier M.T. , Vincent M.F. , Westhovens R. , Luyten F.P.
Published: August 2002

We report here a unique case of a 55‐year‐old woman presenting with a clinical picture of Parkinson disease, severe back pain, splenomegaly, and pronounced dyspnea. Radiographic examination of the spine showed multiple vertebral fractures. Niemann‐Pick disease type B was diagnosed by findings of lipid‐loaded histiocytes and a strongly reduced sphingomyelinase enzyme activity. She was homozygous for the deletion of codon 608 (delR608), which encodes an arginine residue in the Acid Sphingomyelinase gene. To investigate the cause of the unusual vertebral fractures, we screened for polymorphisms previously described as possibly associated with increased risk for osteoporosis and fractures. Our patient was heterozygous for the polymorphisms of the vitamin D receptor gene, the estrogen receptor gene, and the collagen 1A1gene. Increased physical activity after Parkinson treatment, a genetic predisposition, together with worsening disease due to interfering medications could explain the dramatic presentation of this patient. She was treated with cholesterol lowering drugs such as statins to decrease sphingomyelin synthesis, avoidance of drugs that inhibit sphingomyelinase, and bisphosphonates. No new fractures have occurred, but the interstitial lung disease has progressed. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Duplication of chromosome region (16)(p11.2 → p12.1) in a mother and daughter with mild mental retardation
Authors: Engelen J.J.M. , de Die‐Smulders C.E.M. , Dirckx R. , Verhoeven W.M.A. , Tuinier S. , Curfs L.M.G. , Hamers A.J.H.
Published: August 2002

We report a 40‐year‐old female with mild mental retardation and behavior problems and her 6‐year‐old daughter. Chromosome analysis showed that both patients had a proximal duplication in the short arm of chromosome 16. The aberration was characterized further with band‐specific probes, resulting in a 46,XX,dir dup(16)(pter → p11.2::p12.1 → qter) karyotype. The clinical and cytogenetical findings are compared to other patients with partial trisomy 16p reported in the literature. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Phenotypic spectrum of interstitial 7p duplication in mosaic and non‐mosaic forms
Authors: Cox Helen , Stewart Helen , Hall Lucy , Donnai Dian
Published: August 2002

The phenotypes of a mother and child with a duplication of 7p15–7p22 are described. The mother is mosaic for the cytogenetic abnormality, whereas all cells are affected in her son. Fewer than 5 patients with interstitial 7p duplications are described in the world literature whereas over 30 phenotypic descriptions of individuals with terminal 7p duplication can be found. Authors have suggested that the associated phenotype amounts to a recognizable syndrome. The current cases give further insights into the phenotype that results from pure 7p duplication, both in its mosaic and in its full form. Comparisons are made with previous cases, in the light of the shorter segment involved in the current patients, whose duplication does not extend to pter. This case description will be useful in counseling patients with duplications of 7p and lends support to the existence of characteristic craniofacial features and congenital malformations in this chromosome rearrangement. In addition, as earlier case reports all describe the phenotype associated with non‐mosaic partial 7p trisomy, the current observations amount to clear evidence that mosaicism attenuates the phenotype of this rearrangement. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Systematic search for mutations in the human tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases‐3 (TIMP‐3) gene on chromosome 22 and association study with schizophrenia
Authors: Hung Chao‐Chun , Chen Yun‐Hsiang , Tsai Ming‐Ta , Chen Chia‐Hsiang
Published: August 2002

Several linkage studies have suggested that chromosome 22q12–q13 is a putative region for schizophrenic genes. In this study, the human tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase‐3 (TIMP‐3) gene was investigated as positional candidate gene for schizophrenia because of its regulatory function on extracellular matrix proteins, cell adhesion molecules, and neural cell adhesion molecules in the brain. We systematically searched for the nucleotide variants by sequencing all the exons and their flanking intronic sequences in a sample of Chinese schizophrenic patients from Taiwan. Two silent mutations in the exon 3 were identified: c.249T→C at codon 83 (His) and c.261C→T at codon 87 (Ser). However, no mutations causing amino acid alteration or aberrant splicing of transcripts were observed. Hence, it is unlikely that the TIMP‐3 gene itself may play an important role in the genetic susceptibility to schizophrenia. Further case control association study revealed a significant difference of genotype distribution of the c.249T→C between schizophrenic patients and control. This finding supports that 22q12 is a schizophrenia susceptible region, and it is likely that there might be other genetic mutations in the neighborhood of the TIMP‐3 gene locus that may contribute to the susceptibility of schizophrenia. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Analysis of epistasis in linked regions in the Irish study of high‐density schizophrenia families
Authors: Sullivan Patrick F. , O'Neill F. Anthony , Walsh Dermot , Ma Yunlong , Kendler Kenneth S. , Straub Richard E.
Published: August 2002

Epistasis may be important in the etiology of schizophrenia. Analysis of epistasis has been important in the positional cloning of a gene involved in the etiology of type II diabetes mellitus. We investigated the importance of epistasis among six linked regions in 268 multiplex pedigrees in the Irish Study of High‐Density Schizophrenia Families (ISHDSF) by computing pairwise correlations between nonparametric linkage scores for narrow, intermediate, and broad diagnostic definitions. The linked regions were on chromosomes 2, 4, 5, 6, 8, and 10. No correlation reached our a priori level of statistical significance. Using this statistical approach, we did not find evidence of important epistatic effects among these six regions in the ISHDSF. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Tool‐using chimpanzees
Authors: Mason William A.
Published: August 2002

Review of Folk Physics for Apes. The Chimpanzee’s Theory of How the World Works by Daniel J. Povinelli, in collaboration with James E. Reaux, Laura A. Theall, and Steve Giambrone. Oxford, Oxford University Press, 2000, xiii + 391 pp, 98 fig., 35 tab., $85.00.
Infant feeding and weaning practices in Roman Egypt
Authors: Dupras Tosha L. , Schwarcz Henry P. , Fairgrieve Scott I.
Published: August 2002

Current knowledge of infant feeding and weaning practices during the Roman period in Egypt is limited to scanty documentary and iconographic evidence. Stable nitrogen and carbon isotope analysis provides another avenue to explore this question. A sample of 49 infant and juvenile human skeletal remains from the Kellis 2 cemetery in the Dakhleh Oasis, Egypt, was used to determine patterns of infant feeding and weaning. δ15N values indicate that supplementary foods were introduced at around 6 months of age, and that weaning was complete by 3 years of age. By 6 months of age, δ13C values become increasingly enriched over adult values, and reach peak enrichment at approximately 1.5 years of age. Beyond this age, δ13C gradually declines to approach adult values. This enrichment in infant δ13C values is indicative of consumption of 13C‐enriched supplementary foods. Based on isotopic study of faunal and botanical remains from the ancient village of Kellis, we conclude that at approximately 6 months of age, infants were fed milk of goat and/or cow. Am J Phys Anthropol 115:204–212, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Mouse glioma gene expression profiling identifies novel human glioma‐associated genes
Authors: Gutmann David H. , Huang Zhi‐Yong , Hedrick Nicolé M. , Ding Hao , Guha Abhijit , Watson Mark A.
Published: August 2002

Based on previous studies demonstrating increased RAS activity in human astrocytomas, we developed a transgenic mouse model (B8) that targets an activated RAS molecule to astrocytes. Within 3 to 4 months after birth, these mice develop high‐grade astrocytomas that are histologically identical to human astrocytomas. To characterize genetic events associated with B8 mouse astrocytoma formation, we employed comparative gene expression profiling of wild‐type cultured mouse astrocytes, non‐neoplastic B8 astrocytes, B8 astrocytoma cultures, and two other astrocytoma cultures from independently derived RAS transgenic mouse lines. We identified several classes of gene expression changes, including those associated with the non‐neoplastic state in the B8 transgenic mouse, those associated with astrocytoma formation, and those specifically associated with only one of the three independently derived transgenic mouse astrocytomas. Differential expression of several unique genes was confirmed at the protein level in both the RAS transgenic mouse astrocytomas and two human glioblastoma multiforme cell lines. Furthermore, reexpression of one of these downregulated astrocytoma‐associated proteins, GAP43, resulted in C6 glioma cell growth suppression. The use of this transgenic mouse model to identify novel genetic changes that might underlie the pathogenesis of human high‐grade astrocytomas provides a unique opportunity to discover future targets for brain tumor therapy.
Synthesis and properties of σ–π conjugated alternating polymers consisting of carbazole and organosilicon units
Authors: Sakamaki Koichi , Ohshita Joji , Kunai Atsutaka , Nakao Hidenobu , Adachi Akira , Okita Koichi
Published: August 2002

We have synthesized novel σ–π conjugated polymers with an alternating organosilanylene and π‐electron system, intending to utilize them for hole‐transporting materials of electroluminescent (EL) devices. 3,6‐Di(lithioethynyl)carbazoles were co‐polymerized with organodichlorosilanes to give the corresponding polymers with molecular weights of MW = 2000–5000. Another type of polymer with a thienylene unit was also synthesized by the nickel‐catalyzed reaction of the di‐Grignard reagent of 1,2‐bis[2‐(5‐bromothienyl)]tetraethyldisilane with 3,6‐dibromocarbazole, the molecular weight being Mn = 3100. The EL devices with a double‐layer system composed of tris(8‐quinolinolato)aluminum(III) and the present polymers as the emitting‐electron‐transporting and hole‐transporting layers, respectively, emit green EL with a maximum intensity of the order of 103 cd m−2. Of these, the device with the thienylene–carbazole polymers exhibited the highest luminance of 1480 cd m−2. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Aluminiumorganic compounds of some metaldioximates
Authors: Voiculescu Nicolae
Published: August 2002

Coordinated dioximes with nickel(II), palla‐dium(II) and copper(II) ions proved capable of giving substitution reactions with a series of aluminiumorganic compounds. Studies made on the reaction products have revealed that in the case of both dimethylglyoxime and diphenylglyoxime. The reaction products result from substitution of the OH…O hydrogen bridges existing in such compounds by OAlO bridges. All compounds reported in this paper were separated from the reaction mixture as coloured powders and were characterized by chemical analyses, IR spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction spectra, proton NMR spectra and magnetic properties. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Dimethylarsinic acid targets tubulin in mitotic cells to induce abnormal spindles
Authors: Kawata Hiroko , Kuroda Koichi , Endo Yoko , Endo Ginji
Published: August 2002

Dimethylarsinic acid (DMA) is the most effective inducer of cell‐cycle disruption among the arsenic compounds and their metabolites. The present study was conducted to gain further insight into cell‐cycle disruption induced by DMA. The inhibition of cell proliferation and the mitotic arrest induced by DMA were significant and dose‐dependent in Chinese hamster V79 cells and the two seemed to be closely related. At less than 140 µM the DMA did not inhibit the proliferation of cells, but it significantly induced mitotic arrest. An indirect immunofluorescence assay using anti‐α‐tubulin antibodies revealed that DMA induced the formation of abnormal spindles in the metaphase cells even at 350 µM with 5 h of treatment. At 1.4 mM DMA no metaphase cells could form a definite spindle structure. The spindle figures were similar to those induced by colchicine (125 nM) or vinblastine (110 nM), major antimitotic agents. In DMA‐treated interphase cells, the microtubule networks were indistinguishable from those of normal cells. With the tubulin‐assembly assay estimated by turbidity, DMA at less than 200 µM suppressed tubulin assembly in a dose‐dependent manner, whereas at more than 700 µM it enhanced tubulin polymerization remarkably with or without addition of excess guanosine‐5′‐triphosphate. According to the above findings, we discussed the possibility that DMA, a primary metabolite of inorganic arsenic in mammals, is related to arsenic carcinogenicity. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Organometallic complexes with biological molecules: XVI. Endocrine disruption effects of tributyltin(IV)chloride on metamorphosis of the ascidian larva
Authors: Patricolo E. , Mansueto C. , D'Agati P. , Pellerito L.
Published: August 2002

The effects of tributyltin(IV)chloride (TBT) on the metamorphosis of ascidian larvae of Ciona intestinalis, 2 h after hatching, were investigated. Ascidians are protochordates that lack thyroid follicles and possess thyroid hormones (THs) and their precursors, 3‐monoiodo‐tyrosine (MIT) and 3,5‐diiodo‐tyrosine (DIT), in their endostyle. According to recent findings, these hormones are also present at larval stages, localize in mesenchymal cells and their function seems to be mainly related to larval transformations. Here, we investigate the effects of TBT on thyroxine (T4) content and localization by exposing larvae of C. intestinalis for different times to TBT concentrations known to block metamorphosis. The result is a blocking of the retraction of the tail, and larval immobility. As detected by immmunohistochemistry, in normal larvae, T4 is found in all mesenchymal cells spread out in the body cavity, under the adhesive papillae and around the intestine. By contrast, in larvae exposed to 10−5 M and 10−7 M TBT, T4 is detected only in 5% and 25% of total mesenchymal cells respectively. Radioimmunoassay shows a 70% decrease of T4 content in TBT‐exposed larvae, with respect to unexposed larvae. In addition, neosynthesis of THs is inhibited. Even if parallelism does not exist between the endocrine systems of invertebrates and vertebrates, however, a close similarity exists for functions such as reproduction and metabolism. Our results indicate that TBT could behave as an endocrine disrupter (ED) in ascidians and could impair T4 metabolism. These findings suggest that the ED activity of TBT could be conserved from invertebrates to vertebrates. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Aluminiumorganic compounds of coordinated salicylaldoxime and their adducts with nitrogen Lewis bases
Authors: Voiculescu Nicolae
Published: August 2002

Aluminiumorganic compounds of a coordinated salicylaldoxime resulted from reaction of M(II)(SALOxH)2 (where M(II) = Ni(II), Pd(II) and Cu(II); SALOx represents the divalent radical of the salicylaldoxime) with AlR3(R = CH3,C2H5,i‐C4H9,C6H5 and Cl). Copper(II) bis‐salicylaldoximate reacting with Al(i‐C4H9)3 does not form a compound similar to those obtained with nickel and palladium. Aluminiumorganic compounds of the coordinated salicylaldoxime result from the substitution of OHO hydrogen bonds, existing in chelates, by OAlO bridges. All compounds reported in this paper were separated from the reaction mixture as coloured powders and were characterized by chemical analyses, IR spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction spectra, proton NMR spectra and magnetic properties. The new aluminiumorganic compounds form adducts with amine. Among the amine adducts, only the adducts with pyridine were isolated to confirm their formula and the mode of binding. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Speciation of volatile antimony compounds in culture headspace gases of Cryptococcus humicolus using solid phase microextraction and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry
Authors: Smith L. M. , Maher W. A. , Craig P. J. , Jenkins R. O.
Published: August 2002

Direct analysis of the volatile antimony compounds stibine (SbH3), monomethylantimony, dimethylantimony (Me2Sb) and trimethylantimony (Me3Sb) using solid phase microextraction (SPME) with polydimethylsiloxane fibres and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) is described. The best analyte to background signal ratio was achieved using a 20 min extraction time. Antimony species were separated using a 3% phenylmethylsilicone capillary column operated at a column pressure of 70 kPa, a flow rate of 1.4 ml min−1 and temperature ramping from 30 to 36 °C at 0.1 °C min−1. Cryogenic focusing of desorbed species was required to achieve resolution of antimony species. The optimized SPME–GC–MS method was applied to the analysis of headspace gases from cultures of Cryptococcus humicolus incubated with inorganic antimony(III) and (V) substrates. The headspace gases from biphasic (aerobic–anaerobic) biomass‐concentrated culture incubations revealed the presence of SbH3, Me2Sb and Me3Sb. Stibine was the major antimony species detected in cultures amended with inorganic antimony(V). Me3Sb was the sole volatile antimony species detected when cultures were amended with antimony(III). Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Organotin speciation analyses in marine biota using sodium tetraethylborate ethylation and gas chromatography with flame photometric detection
Authors: Cassi Roberto , Tolosa Imma , Bartocci Jean , Mora Stephen de
Published: August 2002

The analysis of organotin compounds based on the in situ simultaneous derivatization and extraction with sodium tetraethylborate has been optimized to overcome the most common matrix effect problems with biological samples. To obtain a complete dissolution of the samples, free of colloidal interfaces problems, mechanical agitation has been coupled with stirring in a warmed ultrasonic bath. A strict quality control system using three internal standards was implemented. Tripropyltin chloride was used as internal standard to assess the derivatization reaction and tetraoctyltin was used to check the overall extraction efficiency. Tetrabutyltin was used to verify the gas chromatography (with flame photometric detector) performance of the analyses. The technique was validated using Certified Reference Materials (NIES‐11 and BCR‐477) and has been applied successfully to different biological matrices (fish, mussels, oyster and barnacles). Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Morphological analysis of linear low density polyethylene films by atomic force microscopy
Authors: Drummond Kate M. , Shanks Robert A. , Cser Ferenc
Published: August 2002

Atomic force microscopy has been used to investigate the morphology of hexene linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE) blown film in the undrawn and drawn states. The morphology of the undrawn film, which is biaxially oriented due to the nature of the extrusion process, is composed of crystallites, which consist of aggregates of lamellae. Elongation of the film caused these crystallites to undergo deformation, resulting in the gradual formation of a fibrillar structure in the draw direction. The transformation of these crystallites into fibrils corresponded with an initial increase in the surface roughness, until 250% elongation. Further extension of the film to 450% caused the surface roughness to reach a plateau. The changes observed in the surface roughness and morphology indicate that drawing of the film caused the crystallites to tilt and slip, rupturing crystalline blocks, which then develop into a fibrillar structure. Further extension of these initial fibrillar structures resulted in a more oriented fibrillar morphology. Wide‐angle x‐ray scattering clearly showed the orientation of the crystals with respect to the draw direction throughout the film. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 83: 777–784, 2002
Mechanical properties, morphology, and crystallization behavior of new thermoplastic polyimide (N‐TPI)/poly(ether sulfone) blends
Authors: Shibata Mitsuhiro , Ozawa Koichi , Yosomiya Ryutoku
Published: August 2002

Blends of wholly aromatic new thermoplastic polyimide (N‐TPI) and poly(ether sulfone) (PES) were prepared by melt‐mixing and subsequent injection molding. Their mechanical properties, morphology, and crystallization behavior were investigated. A synergistic effect on the flexural properties was observed for the N‐TPI/PES blends over the whole compositions. Differential scanning calorimetric analysis confirmed that the blend is an immiscible system and that the crystallinity of the N‐TPI component is very low (0.4–1.4%) irrespective of the composition. Scanning electron microscopic analysis suggested that the improvement in flexural properties is likely due to the reinforcement of the PES matrix by the fibrous N‐TPI phase for the N‐TPI/PES (40/60, 20/80) blends. For N‐TPI/PES (80/20, 60/40), the orientation of the matrix N‐TPI rather than the fibrillation of the PES phase along the melt‐flow direction may contribute to the synergism observed. Also, study of the isothermal crystallization behavior of the blends revealed that the addition of 10 wt % PES accelerates the crystallization of N‐TPI and further addition causes the retardation of it. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 83: 1366–1374, 2002