bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multiplex detection of herpesviruses in tear fluid using the “stair primers” pcr method: Prospective study of 93 patients
Authors: Robert Pierre‐Yves , Traccard Isabelle , Adenis Jean‐Paul , Denis François , Ranger‐Rogez Sylvie
Published: August 2002

Human herpesviruses can infect the eye and be excreted subsequently in tears. The aim of the present study was to use a multiplex PCR to detect herpesviruses (HSV‐1, ‐2, VZV, CMV, EBV, HHV‐6) in tears from normal subjects and from patients with pathological conditions (acute herpes, zoster, papillary conjunctivitis, and dry eye). Schirmer test strips were used to collect tear fluid from 93 patients, sampling both eyes. DNA was then extracted from the 186 samples by chromatography, and viral DNA amplified using a commercialised multiplex “stair primer” method. Thirty‐four samples (18.3%) contained Taq inhibitors. The multiplex test gave positive results for HSV and VZV in tear fluid from patients with acute dendritic keratitis (3 patients) and acute ocular zoster (4 patients) and was, therefore, considered effective in testing samples from patients with acute lesions. HSV‐1 and HSV‐2 were found in two samples from patients with metaherpetic corneal scarring. Among 28 cases of dry eye, two were positive for HHV‐6, the latter being associated with EBV in one patient. HHV‐6 was also found in 4 out of 54 cases of papillary conjunctivitis. This raised occurrence of HHV‐6 in dry eye or papillary conjunctivitis, suggests new clinical patterns for HHV‐6 latency or reactivation. Detection of EBV in 1 out of 80 healthy eyes confirms previous evidence that lacrimal glands constitute potentially a site for latent‐phase EBV. J. Med. Virol. 66:506–511, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A three‐dimensional current cell (TCC) for the TLM method
Authors: Faccioni F. Mauro , Raizer Adroaldo
Published: August 2002

This paper presents a new design for a three‐dimensional cell for the TLM method, and its application in the resonator analysis. The new proposed cell is based on ‘π‐type’ transmission line, and it uses incident and reflected currents. A condensed scattering matrix is developed. The computational results are compared with the analytical results and with TLM‐SCN (symmetrical condensed node) computational results. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Density dependent modulation of cell cycle protein expression in astrocytes
Authors: Nakatsuji Yuji , Miller Robert H.
Published: August 2002

The proliferation of type‐1 astrocytes is strongly inhibited by homotypic cell‐contact. To examine the mechanisms mediating this inhibition of proliferation, the expression of cell cycle related proteins was compared between exponential growth‐phase and contact‐inhibited astrocytes. Expression of the cyclin‐dependent kinase (Cdk) inhibitor p27Kip1 was upregulated 10‐fold in confluent compared with growth‐phase cultures. Density‐induced expression of p27Kip1 was reversible. When confluent cultures of astrocytes expressing high levels of p27Kip1 were replated at low density, the expression of p27Kip1 decreased rapidly. In contrast to p27Kip1, the expression levels of the cell cycle protein, cyclin A was decreased ten‐fold in confluent cultures compared with those in growth phase. In addition, the ratio of hyperphosphorylated to hypophosphorylated retinoblastoma protein (pRb) decreased concomitantly with the increase of p27Kip1 and the decrease of cyclin A levels. These results suggest that increased expression of p27Kip1 and decreased expression of cyclin A underlie the reduction in proliferation of contact inhibited astrocytes. High levels of mitogenic stimulation could transiently override contact‐dependent inhibition of astrocyte proliferation. Addition of exogenous epidermal growth factor (EGF) resulted in elevated proliferation at high density and formation of multiple cell layers. Addition of EGF did not substantially alter levels of p27Kip1 or cyclin A, but did elevate the levels of cyclin D1. Such changes in cell cycle protein expression may contribute to elevated cell proliferation seen in reactive gliosis after injury to the adult CNS. J. Neurosci. Res. 66:487–496, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Trends in the daily intensity of precipitation in Italy from 1951 to 1996
Authors: Brunetti Michele , Colacino Michele , Maugeri Maurizio , Nanni Teresa
Published: August 2002

An analysis of 67 sites of daily precipitation records over the 1951–1996 period for Italy is presented. Seasonal and yearly total precipitation (TP), number of wet days (WDs) and precipitation intensity (PI) are investigated, and the trends both for the single station records, and for some different area average series are studied. PI is analysed by attributing precipitation to ten class‐intervals, removing the influence of variations in the number of WDs to yield changes in the underlying shape of the WD amount distribution. The results show that the trend for the number of WDs in the year is significantly negative throughout Italy, stronger in the north than in the south: this trend is mainly a result of the winter. Moreover, they show that there is a tendency toward an increase in PI. This increase is globally less strong and significant than the decrease in the number of WDs. It is not concentrated in one specific season, but changes from area to area, and is generally weak in winter, due to a significant decrease of winter TP. In northern Italy, the increase in PI is mainly owing to a strong increase in the heaviest events, while in central–southern Italy, it depends on a larger part of the distribution of WD amounts. The analysis of the evolution of the class‐interval contributions shows that the positive trend of the heaviest events starts in the 1970s, as does the negative trend of lightest events. Copyright © 2001 Royal Meteorological Society.
Synthesis and characterization of zinc(II) meso-tetra(9-hexyl) carbazolylporphine: A green-emitting hole-transporting material for electroluminescent and photoconductive applications
Authors: WALSH CHRISTOPHER J. , SOOKSIMUANG THANASAT , MANDAL BRAJA K.
Published: August 2002

The preparation of a new zinc(II) metalloporphyrin, substituted with four alkylated carbazole moieties, by reaction of pyrrole and 3-formyl-9-hexylcarbazole is reported. The substitution pattern negatively shifts the redox potentials of the macrocycle and leads to a material that emits green light at 615 nm when photo-excited at 554 nm.
Introductory studies on the growth and characterization of carotenoid solids: an approach to carotenoid solid engineering
Authors: Mori Yuzo
Published: August 2002

Solids of seven all‐trans isomeric carotenoids, β‐carotene, β‐apo‐8′‐carotenal, astaxanthin, canthaxanthin, spheroidene, lycopene and zeaxanthin, were studied in the forms of KBr disks, aggregates, thin films and single crystals in an effort to understand and control the molecular arrangement of the solids. Optical absorption and resonance Raman scattering were adopted to characterize the arrangements. Card‐packed arrangements and head‐to‐tail arrangements were realized by changing either the end groups or the growth process. These studies, which reveal the elementary engineering of solid growth and its characterization, may open up carotenoid solid engineering to develop useful applications of the materials in the fields of electronics, photonics and mechanical engineering. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
High‐resolution Fourier transform Raman spectra of the fundamental bands of 14N15N and 15N2
Authors: Bendtsen Jørgen
Published: August 2002

The Fourier transform Raman spectra of the fundamental bands of 14N15N and 15N2 were measured with a resolution of 0.02 cm−1. Lines from all branches (O, Q, S) were observed and measured. The analyses of the wavenumbers yield improved values for the band origins ν0(14N15N) = 2291.33773(8) cm−1 and ν0(15N2) = 2252.07846(9) cm−1 and improved values for the rotational parameters of the ground state and the first excited state of the two molecules. The values obtained for 14N15N are B0 = 1.9236102(35) cm−1 and D0 = 5.3530(94) × 10−6 cm−1 and B1 − B0 = −0.01651064(86) cm−1 and D1 − D0 = 1.06(16) × 10−8 cm−1. For 15N2 the following values obtained are B0 = 1.8576250(36) cm−1, D0 = 4.9760(87), B1 − B0 = 0.01566657(99) cm−1 and D1 − D0 = 0.94(18) × 10−8 cm−1. The bond length calculated for all three isotopomers of molecular nitrogen shows a systematic decrease with increasing molecular mass. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Crystal structure and polarized vibrational spectra of 2‐bromo‐4‐nitropyridine N‐oxide single crystal
Authors: Hanuza J. , Michalski J. , Ma̧czka M. , Waśkowska A. , Talik Z. , van der Maas J. H.
Published: August 2002

2‐Bromo‐4‐nitropyridine N‐oxide is orthorhombic, space group Pbca, with eight molecules per unit cell of dimensions a = 5.979(1), b = 9.899(1), c = 23.249(5) Å. The Br ion is nearly coplanar with the pyridine ring, while the two oxygen atoms of the nitro group are displaced above and below the ring by (−0.214 Å) and (+0.053 Å). The hydrogen bond of the type C—H···O links the molecules into pairs around centers of symmetry. These dimers, arranged into layers related by glide planes, are held together solely by contacts of the van der Waals type. The polarized Fourier transform IR and Raman spectra, measured in the regions 30–3500 and 80–3500 cm−1, respectively, are correlated with x‐ray structural data. Comparison of the spectrum of the dissolved sample with the spectra obtained from the polycrystalline sample and single crystals shows the attractive character of the intermolecular C—H···O contacts for these molecules. The temperature‐dependent IR spectra suggest the presence of orientational disorder at higher temperatures. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
In situ Raman spectroscopy for the characterization of MoVW mixed oxide catalysts
Authors: Mestl Gerhard
Published: August 2002

In situ Raman spectroscopy was used to characterize the synthesis and activation steps of mixed metal oxide catalysts starting from the mixed solutions, through subsequent drying and activation procedures, to the catalytic propene partial oxidation reaction. Comparison with Raman spectra recorded for defined, well‐crystallized reference oxides allowed the assignment of the spectra obtained during the catalyst preparation to certain oxides, such as Mo5O14. Especially the latter oxide phase is relevant for selective partial oxidation catalysis. The selectivity for partial oxidation products could be improved between two‐ and three‐fold when the amount of Mo5O14‐type oxide increased. This phase forms from mixtures of molybdenum and tungsten and from mixtures of molybdenum, tungsten and vanadium, but not from binary mixtures of molybdenum and vanadium with high vanadium concentrations. Tungsten and vanadium play an important role as structural promoters in the formation and stabilization of this oxide and for high catalytic activity. A resonance Raman effect was proved for reduced molybdenum oxides due to resonant coupling of the exciting laser to the IVCT transitions between fivefold‐coordinated Mo5+ and sixfold‐coordinated Mo6+. This resonance enhancement renders possible the in situ characterization of operating, reduced molybdenum oxide catalysts. In contrast to the Mo5O14‐type phase, MoO3−x exhibits a high selectivity to total oxidation, and it even becomes re‐oxidized during propene partial oxidation. These different catalytic properties of MoO3−x and the Mo5O14‐type oxide led to the development of a structure–activity relationship which explains the behavior of industrial catalysts. A model is proposed on the basis of a bond order–Raman wavenumber relationship, which explains the different selectivities of these two oxides in terms of metal–oxygen bond strengths, i.e. oxygen basicity and oxygen lability, respectively. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Expression of vascular endothelial growth factor in renal cell carcinoma and the relation to angiogenesis and p53 protein expression
Authors: Lee Ji Shin , Kim Hyung Seok , Jung Jong Jae , Park Chang Soo , Lee Min Cheol
Published: August 2002

Background and Objectives:

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) seems to play an important role in tumor angiogenesis. The tumor‐suppressor gene p53 has been thought to regulate VEGF expression. We investigated the effect of VEGF expression on renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and the correlation between the expression of VEGF and tumor angiogenesis and p53 protein expression.

Methods:

Sixty‐two RCCs were examined by immunohistochemical studies with anti‐VEGF, anti‐p53, and anti‐CD34 antibodies.

Results:

Forty tumors (80.6%) were classified as VEGF positive, and 28 tumors (45.2%) were positive for p53 protein. The microvessel density was 75.3 ± 33.5. A significant correlation was found between VEGF expression and both the nuclear grade (P < 0.05) and the TNM stage (P < 0.05). The tumors with VEGF expression had a significantly higher microvessel density than those without VEGF expression (P < 0.01). There was no statistically significant correlation between p53 protein and VEGF expression. No statistically significant differences in survival were found to be associated with microvessel density, VEGF expression or p53 protein expression. By using multivariate survival analyses, nuclear grade (P < 0.05) and TNM stage (P < 0.05) were the only independent prognostic factors.

Conclusions:

Our data do not show a direct regulation of VEGF expression by p53. We suggest that VEGF expression plays a role in the promotion of angiogenesis in RCC. J. Surg. Oncol. 2001; 77:55–60. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Laser enhancement in hepatic regeneration for partially hepatectomized rats
Authors: de Castroe Silva O. , Zucoloto S. , Menegazzo L.A.G. , Granato R.G. , Marcassa L.G. , Bagnato V.S.
Published: August 2002

Background and Objective

The bio‐stimulation effect of laser has been observed in many areas of Medicine. However, there are a few works which investigate its use for liver regeneration. Most of their results were inconclusive due to the use of high power lasers. This work was carried out to investigate the bio‐stimulation effect of laser in liver regeneration using low power lasers.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

We used Wistar male rats, which were irradiated with laser light (wavelength 590 nm and intensity of 50 mW/cm2) for 5 minutes after 70% hepatectomy. The respiratory mitochondrial activity, the serum level of aminotransferase and the PCNA were measured.

Results

Our results show a dramatic increase in the mitochondrial activity for the laser treated group at 24 hours after the hepatectomy.

Conclusions

We conclude that the laser promotes a bio‐stimulation effect on the early stages of liver regeneration without any detectable damage of the cells. Lasers Surg. Med. 29:73–77, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Ploidy differences between hormone‐ and chemical carcinogen–induced rat mammary neoplasms: Comparison to invasive human ductal breast cancer*
Authors: Li Jonathan J. , Papa Dan , Davis Marilyn F. , Weroha S. John , Aldaz C. Marcelo , El‐Bayoumy Karam , Ballenger Jodi , Tawfik Ossama , Li Sara Antonia
Published: August 2002

To ascertain differences between solely hormone– and chemical carcinogen–induced murine mammary gland tumors (MGTs), a direct comparison of their ploidy status was assessed. Nuclear image cytometry (NIC) was used to evaluate ploidy in ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) and MGTs induced solely by 17β‐estradiol (E2) in female A‐strain Copenhagen Irish hooded gene rats (ACI) and E2 plus testosterone propionate in male Noble rats. These results were compared to ploidy data from primary MGTs induced by two synthetic carcinogens, 7,12‐dimethylbenz[a]antracene and nitrosomethylurea in female Brown Lewis Norway rats and an environmental carcinogen, 6‐nitrochrysene, in female Sprague‐Dawley rats. Both DCIS and primary MGTs induced solely by hormones were highly aneuploid (> 84%), whereas MGTs induced by either synthetic or environmental carcinogens were primarily diploid (> 85%). Examination of 76 metaphase plates obtained from eight individual E2‐induced ACI female rat MGTs revealed the following consistent chromosome alterations: gains in chromosomes 7, 11, 12, 13, 19, and 20 and loss of chromosome 12. On Southern blot analysis, six of nine ACI female rat primary E2‐induced MGTs (66%) exhibited amplified copy numbers (range: 3.4–6.9 copies) of the c‐myc gene. Fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) analysis of these MGTs revealed specific fluorescent hybridization signals for c‐myc (7q33) on all three homologs of a trisomy in chromosome 7. NIC analysis of 140 successive nonfamilial sporadic invasive human ductal breast cancers (BCs) showed an aneuploid frequency of 61%, while 31 DCISs revealed a 71% aneuploid frequency. These results clearly demonstrate that the female ACI rat E2‐induced MGTs more closely resemble invasive human DCIS and ductal BC in two pertinent aspects: they are highly aneuploid compared with chemical carcinogen–induced MGTs and exhibit a high frequency of c‐myc amplification. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Entacapone in restless legs syndrome
Authors: Sharif Ashfaq A.
Published: August 2002

Entacapone increased the duration of action of carbidopa–levodopa and resulted in longer periods of symptomatic relief in a patient with restless legs syndrome. The only side effect was nausea. ©2002 Movement Disorder Society.
Vascular parkinsonism: Clinical correlates predicting motor improvement after lumbar puncture
Authors: Ondo William G. , Chan Ling Ling , Levy Joel K.
Published: August 2002

Vascular parkinsonism (VP) is a poorly defined entity which has clinical, and perhaps pathological, overlap with other diagnoses. Although classical VP involves lesions of the basal ganglia, the majority of cases actually show diffuse subcortical white matter changes (SCWMC) on imaging. The exact pathologies of these white matter changes are debated and likely heterogeneous, but are generally thought to represent areas of chronic or recurrent partial ischemia. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) drainage is the treatment for NPH and has been reported to improve symptoms in some patients with idiopathic NPH and associated SCWMC. To determine whether historical, clinical, or radiographic factors predict improvement in VP patients after CSF drainage, we removed 35–40 ml of CSF via lumbar punctures (LP) from 40 patients and compared responders with nonresponders for a variety of demographics, clinical features, and blindly interpreted magnetic resonance images (MRI). Fifteen patients (37.5%) reported “significant and irrefutable” gait improvement after LP. Twelve (30.0%) reported no effect and 13 (32.5%) reported mild or very transient improvement. Timed gait in a subset of patients improved (P < 0.05) immediately after LP. Clinically, improvement after CSF removal was predicted by any positive response to levodopa (P < 0.001), the lack of vertical gaze palsies (P < 0.05), the lack of a pure freezing gait (P < 0.05), and the lack of hypotensive episodes (P < 0.05). Blinded MRI interpretation did not find features which clearly predicted response. Some patients diagnosed with VP improved after LP. Clinically, these patients tended to resemble idiopathic PD, whereas nonresponders more closely resembled progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP). These results warrant further investigation and also raise the possibility of testing CSF drainage in patients with idiopathic PD complicated by SCWMC. © 2001 Movement Disorder Society.
Modal analysis of a rectangular waveguide with rounded sides
Authors: Shen Zhongxiang , Lu Xinjian
Published: August 2002

This article presents a rigorous full‐wave modal analysis of a rectangular waveguide with rounded sides. The plane wave series expansion of Bessel function is employed to obtain the closed‐form modal functions for both TE and TM modes. Characteristic equations for calculating the eigenvalues (cutoff wavenumbers) of both TE and TM modes are derived. Numerical results are presented for the cutoff wavenumbers of the dominant mode as well as the higher‐order modes supported in the rounded‐side rectangular waveguide. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 33: 365–368, 2002; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.10323
187Os subspectra in 1H and 31P{1H} spectra of triosmium carbonyl clusters
Authors: Stchedroff Marc J. , Aime Silvio , Gobetto Roberto , Salassa Luca , Nordlander Ebbe
Published: August 2002

A survey of the use of 187Os satellite subspectra in 1H and 31P{1H} spectra of triosmium carbonyl clusters is reported. By varying evolution delays in HMQC spectra of [Os3(µ‐H)2(CO)10] we have selectively extracted the values for 1J(Os,H) and 2J(Os,H), respectively. An analysis of the principal modes of phosphine coordination in triosmium clusters demonstrates that 31P{1H}187Os satellite subspectra are diagnostic for equatorial coordination [1J(Os,P) = 211–223 Hz] or for axial coordination (perpendicular to the plane of the cluster) [1J(Os,P) ≈ 147 Hz]. Chelating and bridging diphosphines yield 187Os satellite subspectra which are the sum of A2X and AA′X spin systems. If significant P–P coupling is present, the AA′X component requires simulation. All observed 2J(Os,P) trans‐equatorial couplings fall in the range 38–65 Hz. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Outer egg coats of the marsupial conceptus: Secretion and protein composition
Authors: Casey Nicholas P. , Martinus Ryan , Selwood Lynne
Published: August 2002

Little is known of the composition of the outer egg coats. We aimed to quantify secretion during embryonic development, identify precursor secreting cells and investigate protein composition. The study was based on 259 egg coats and 14 reproductive tracts of 104 T. vulpecula undergoing natural and induced cycles and 341 coats from 35 Sminthopsis macroura undergoing natural cycles. Following PAGE, Western blotting, and amino acid sequencing of egg coats, the short peptide sequences obtained from T. vulpecula and S. macroura coats were found to be dissimilar to each other and to any known protein. However, in T. vulpecula, S. macroura coat polyclonal antibody cross‐reacted with coat precursors, suggesting similar epitopes, and showed mucoid precursors in secretory cells in oviduct epithelia and shell precursors in glands in the utero–tubal junction and uterus. Immuno‐electron microscopy located shell coat precursors in various previously unidentified cell types, including pre‐ovulatory apoptotic cells, early post‐ovulatory holocrine cells, and milk‐producing cells, found at blastocyst stages. Ultrastructural and quantitative volumetric analysis of the intact shell coat suggested a second wave of secretion at the blastocyst stages in T. vulpecula. Despite differences in protein composition, it was concluded that marsupial egg coats are homologous to each other because of similarities in ultrastructure and time and location of secretion. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 62: 181–194, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Nopp 140 involvement in nucleologenesis of mouse preimplantation embryos
Authors: Baran V. , Brochard V. , Renard J.P. , Flechon J.E.
Published: August 2002

As it was shown earlier, resumption of rRNA transcription in early mouse embryo is localized in the peripheral region of nucleolus precursor body/NPB/during the two‐cell stage. Recently, nucleolar phosphoprotein Nopp140 was presented to shuttle between the nucleolus and cytoplasm as chaperone of snoRNPs. Nopp140 interacts with RNA polymerase I in nucleolus and also accumulates in CBs, suggesting a pathway between the two organelles. The aim of the study was to describe the changing location of Nopp140 during the first cleavage stages of mouse embryos and its re‐location after inhibition of rRNA synthesis with actinomycin D. Light microscope immunocytochemical staining showed Nopp140 in the periphery of NPBs before activation of rDNA transcription and in addition confirmed its localization in CBs. Immunolabelling with antibodies against RNA Pol I and UBF gave co‐localization of these proteins, implicating that Nopp140 may actively participate to rDNA transcription. We suggest that fundamental differences in molecular organization of rDNA synthesis and postranscriptional processes between cycling somatic and pre‐implantation embryonic cells may be in selective transport of transcription and/or processing‐complexes of proteins to the nucleolar organizer regions (NOR). Mol. Reprod. Dev. 59:277–284, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Comparison of intracytoplasmic sperm injection for inbred and hybrid mice
Authors: Kawase Yosuke , Iwata Takamitsu , Toyoda Yutaka , Wakayama Teruhiko , Yanagimachi Ryuzo , Suzuki Hiroshi
Published: August 2002

We compared the results of intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) that leads to full term development of hybrid (B6C3F1 and B6D2F1) and inbred (C57BL/6) mouse embryos. Although fertilization and pre‐implantation development of C57BL/6 eggs were similar to those of F1 hybrid eggs, post‐implantation development of the embryos from C57BL/6 females was significantly poorer than those of the eggs from hybrid females. Reciprocal crosses of C57BL/6 and B6C3F1 gametes revealed that the low rate of post‐implantation development of C57BL/6 embryos was due to oocyte factor(s), rather than the sperm factor. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 60: 74–78, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Expression of homeobox‐containing genes in cDNA libraries derived from cattle oocytes and preimplantation stage embryo
Authors: Ponsuksili Siriluck , Wimmers Klaus , Adjaye James , Schellander Karl
Published: August 2002

The homeobox‐containing gene family plays a pivotal role in regulating, patterning, and axial morphogenesis in the developing embryo. But there is still very little known about the expression and function of these genes in mammalian oocytes and preimplantation stage embryos. In this study we have used degenerate primers corresponding to the highly conserved regions of Antennapedia class homeodomains as a rapid and an efficient method to survey bovine cDNA libraries derived from unfertilised oocytes, single 2‐cell, 4‐cell, 8‐cell, morula, and blastocyst stage embryos for the presence of homeobox sequences. Our results provide, for the first time, evidence for the transcription of Hoxa3 and Hoxd1 in oocytes; Cdx1 and Cdx2 in the 2‐cell; Cdx1, Hoxa1, Hoxd1, and Hoxd4 in the 4‐cell; Cdx1, Hoxa1, and Hoxc9 in the 8‐cell; Cdx2, Hoxb9, and Hoxc9 in the morula; Cdx2, Hoxb7, Hoxb9, and Hoxc9 in blastocyst stage cattle embryos. These are candidate genes for the developmental capacity of in vivo and in vitro produced bovine embryos. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 60: 297–301, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Microtubule assembly after treatment of pig oocytes with taxol: Correlation with chromosomes, γ‐tubulin, and MAP kinase*
Authors: Sun Qing‐Yuan , Lai Liangxue , Wu Guang‐Ming , Park Kwang‐Wook , Day Billy N. , Prather Randall S. , Schatten Heide
Published: August 2002

In this study, taxol was used as a tool to study the correlation of microtubule assembly with chromosomes, γ‐tubulin and phosphorylated mitogen‐activated protein (MAP) kinase in pig oocytes at different maturational stages. Taxol treatment did not affect meiotic resumption and chromosome condensation but inhibited/disrupted chromosome alignment at the metaphase plate and bipolar spindle formation and thus meiotic progression. Microtubules were co‐localized with chromosomes and were found to emanate from the chromosomes in taxol‐treated oocytes, suggesting that chromosomes may serve as a source of microtubule organization. In addition, the concentric emanation of microtubules within the chromosome‐surrounded area in taxol‐treated oocytes suggests that microtubule emanation from the chromosomes may be directed by other microtubule‐organizing material. The formation of one large spindle or ≥2 spindles in oocytes after taxol removal shows that minus end microtubule‐organizing material can be normally located on both sides of chromosomes only when the chromosomes are aligned on the metaphase plate. The co‐localization of γ‐tubulin and phosphorylated MAP kinase with microtubule assembly in both control and taxol‐treated oocytes suggests that these two proteins are associated microtubule‐nucleating material in pig oocytes. However, Western blot analysis showed that neither cytoplasmic microtubule aster formation nor extensive microtubule assembly in the chromosome region induced by taxol was caused by super‐activation of MAP kinase. Taxol also induced microtubule assembly depending on chromosome distribution in the first polar body. The results suggest that chromosomes are always co‐localized with microtubules and that emanation of microtubules from the chromosomes may be regulated/directed by microtubule‐organizing material including γ‐tubulin and phosphorylated MAP kinase in pig oocytes. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 60: 481–490, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Regeneration of peripheral nerves after clenbuterol treatment in a rat model
Authors: Frerichs Onno , Fansa Hisham , Ziems Pieter , Schneider Wolfgang , Keilhoff Gerburg
Published: August 2002

Clenbuterol is known to act as a neuroprotective substance in the central nervous system, and also reduces muscle atrophy after denervation. The aim of this study was to evaluate its influence on peripheral nerve regeneration. The rat sciatic nerve model was used in four groups (n = 8 per group). After complete nerve transection and microsurgical coaptation, two groups received a daily oral dose of 100 μg/kg clenbuterol and two served as controls. Regeneration was assessed clinically, histologically, and morphometrically after 4 and 6 weeks. The weight ratios of calf muscles were calculated. Histological examination showed significantly increased axon counts in the clenbuterol group and a better degree of myelination. Muscle weight ratios of the clenbuterol group were significantly increased after 6 weeks, and the animals showed improved function of the hindlimb. Thus, therapy with 100 μg/kg clenbuterol daily after coaptation of a sciatic nerve showed a positive influence on clinical, histological, and morphometrical parameters in the rat model. The underlying mechanism remains unclear. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Muscle Nerve 24: 1687–1691, 2001
Focal cooling improves neuronal conduction in peroneal neuropathy at the fibular neck
Authors: Rutkove Seward B.
Published: August 2002

Heat can induce conduction block (CB) in demyelinated neurons; whether cooling can reverse CB and increase strength is uncertain. In six patients with electrophysiologic evidence of peroneal neuropathy at the fibular neck with definite motor CB, standard motor nerve conduction studies were performed at 32°C and then after the fibular neck region was cooled with an ice pack to 8°–12°C. In all patients, cooling increased the amplitude and area of the compound motor action potential obtained with popliteal fossa stimulation, decreasing the relative amplitude drop across the fibular neck from a mean of 78% to 55%. A concomitant increase in foot dorsiflexor strength was clearly observed in three of the six patients. Both the electrophysiologic and clinical changes readily reversed upon rewarming. These data support the belief that, in compressive neuropathies, cooling relieves conduction block in selected motor neurons, improving strength. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Muscle Nerve 24: 1622–1626, 2001
Computer simulation of jitter phenomenon in neuromuscular transmission disorders
Authors: Miralles Francesc
Published: August 2002

Neuromuscular jitter is a sensitive measure of the safety factor of neuromuscular transmission. Nevertheless, the actual relationship between jitter and the safety factor is unknown because these parameters have not been simultaneously measured. In order to explore the theoretical relationship between them, a computer model of mammalian neuromuscular transmission has been developed. If the safety factor is expressed as the absolute value of the natural logarithm of the probability of a block, the model predicts a double exponential relationship between the safety factor and jitter, except when the percentage of blocks is greater than 90%. In that case, the jitter value decreases. Simulation of acetylcholinesterase inhibition shows that this treatment decreases the neuromuscular transmission blocks more effectively in postsynaptic than in presynaptic disorders. In contrast, when the percentage of blocks is greater than 60%, the jitter value increases in both conditions. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Muscle Nerve 24: 1635–1646, 2001
A new approach to detect the contact of two‐dimensional elliptical particles
Authors: Džiugys Algis , Peters Bernhard
Published: August 2002

The objective of this paper is to introduce a new algorithm to calculate analytically the overlap of two‐dimensional ellipses. The algorithm may be applied for the direct numerical simulation of granular material dynamics by the discrete element method (DEM). The stability of the algorithm is analysed. Moreover, optimization for possible iterative methods is dealt with. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A new enzymic method for the isolation and culture of human bladder body smooth muscle cells
Authors: Ma F.‐H. , Higashira H. , Ukai Y. , Hanai T. , Kiwamoto H. , Park Y.C. , Kurita T.
Published: August 2002

Cultured cells of the human urinary bladder smooth muscle are useful for investigating bladder function, but methods for culturing them are not well developed. We have now established a novel enzymic technique. The smooth muscle layer was separated out and incubated with 0.2% trypsin for 30 min at 37°C. The samples were then minced and incubated with 0.1% collagenase for 30 min and centrifuged at 900 g. The pellets were resuspended in RPMI‐1640 medium containing 10% fetal calf serum (FCS) and centrifuged at 250 g. The smooth muscle cells from the supernatant were cultured in RPMI‐1640 containing 10% FCS. The cells grew to confluence after 7–10 days, forming the “hills and valleys” growth pattern characteristic of smooth muscle cells. Immunostaining with anti‐α‐actin, anti‐myosin, and anti‐caldesmon antibodies demonstrated that 99% of the cells were smooth muscle cells. To investigate the pharmacological properties of the cultured cells, we determined the inhibitory effect of muscarinic receptor antagonists on the binding of [3H]N‐methylscopolamine to membranes from cultured cells. The pKi values obtained for six antagonists agreed with the corresponding values for transfected cells expressing the human muscarinic M2 subtype. Furthermore, carbachol produced an increase in the concentration of cytoplasmic free Ca2+ an action that was blocked by 4‐diphenylacetoxy‐N‐methylpiperidine methiodide, an M3 selective antagonist. This result suggests that these cells express functional M3 muscarinic receptors, in addition to M2 receptors. The subcultured cells therefore appear to be unaffected by our new isolation method. Neurourol. Urodynam. 21:71–79, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Rare‐event component importance for the consecutive‐k system
Authors: Chang Hsun‐Wen , Hwang F.K.
Published: August 2002

Various indices of component importance with respect to system reliability have been proposed. The most popular one is the Birnbaum importance. In particular, a special case called uniform Birnbaum importance in which all components have the same reliability p has been widely studied for the consecutive‐k system. Since it is not easy to compare uniform Birnbaum importance, the literature has looked into the case p = ½, p → 1, or p ≥ ½. In this paper, we look into the case p → 0 to complete the spectrum of examining Birnbaum importance over the whole range of p. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Naval Research Logistics 49: 159–166, 2002; DOI 10.1002/nav.10001
Detection of a Markovian target with optimization of the search efforts under generalized linear constraints
Authors: Dambreville Frédéric , Le Cadre Jean‐Pierre
Published: August 2002

This paper deals with search for a target following a Markovian movement or a conditionally deterministic motion. The problem is to allocate the search efforts, when search resources renew with generalized linear constraints. The model obtained is extended to resource mixing management. New optimality equations of de Guenin's style are obtained. Practically, the problem is solved by using an algorithm derived from the FAB method. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Naval Research Logistics 49: 117–142, 2002; DOI 10.1002/nav.10009
Antennal SNMPs (sensory neuron membrane proteins) of lepidoptera define a unique family of invertebrate CD36‐like proteins
Authors: Rogers Matthew E. , Krieger Jürgen , Vogt Richard G.
Published: August 2002

SNMP1‐Apol is an antennal‐specific protein of the wild silk moth Antheraea polyphemus; the protein is abundantly expressed and localized to the receptor membranes of sex‐pheromone specific olfactory sensory neurons (OSNs). SNMP1‐Apol is thought to function in odor detection based on its olfactory‐specific expression, localization within OSNs, developmental time of expression, and apparent homology to the CD36 family of membrane‐bound receptor proteins. In the current study, SNMP1‐Apol homologues were identified from the moths Bombyx mori, Heliothis virescens, and Manduca sexta. These species posses antennal mRNAs encoding proteins with amino acid sequence identities ranging from 75–80%; these proteins are collectively designated SNMP1. A second M. sexta SNMP homologue, previously identified and partially sequenced [Robertson et al.: Insect Mol Biol 8:501–518, 1999] was fully sequenced and characterized. The encoded protein shares only 26–27% sequence identity with the SNMP1 proteins, and is thus designated SNMP2‐Msex. The SNMP sequences were used to identify 14 and four possible homologues in Drosophila melanogaster and Caenorhabditis elegans genome databases, respectively; thus, greatly expanding CD36 family membership among the invertebrate lineages. Despite their sequence difference, SNMP1‐Msex and SNMP2‐Msex expression is localized to OSNs and occurs simultaneously with the onset of olfactory function. These findings suggest that SNMPs play a central role in odor detection in insects, and that the CD36 gene family is widely represented among animal phyla. The SNMPs are the only identified neuronal members of the CD36 family, and as such expand the activities of this gene family into roles influencing brain function and behavioral action. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Neurobiol 49: 47–61, 2001
Synthesis of methyl methacrylate oligomers with substituted tetraphenylethane initiator
Authors: Roussel J , Boutevin B
Published: August 2002

The radical polymerization of (meth)acrylic monomers (eg methyl methacrylate; MMA) with benzopinacolate‐type initiators has been investigated mainly by Bledzki and Braun. With respect to this work, the typical system (MMA/1,1,2,2‐tetraphenyl‐1,2‐bis(trimethylsiloxy)ethane) has been investigated.

The concomitant uses of 1H NMR and size exclusion chromatography have allowed the percentage of MMA telechelic oligomers present in the medium versus reaction time to be followed. The results show clearly a decrease in the living character of this type of radical polymerization with evolution from telechelic oligomers to monofunctional polymers. In addition, the polymerization features versus reaction time are simulated using the GEAR package; good agreement between the calculated and experimental data is obtained.

© 2001 Society of Chemical Industry
Mechanical characteristics of modified unsaturated polyester resins derived from poly(ethylene terephthalate) waste
Authors: Farahat Medhat S
Published: August 2002

The depolymerization of poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET), by an alcoholysis reaction is an easy operation and gives prospects for the utilization of wastes. PET waste was first depolymerized by glycolysis reaction at three different molar ratios of diethylene glycol (DEG), in the presence of manganese acetate as a transesterification catalyst. Copolyesters of PET modified with varied mole ratios of p‐hydroxybenzoic acid (PHBA) were reported to exhibit excellent mechanical and chemical properties due to their liquid crystalline behaviour. Here we study the effect of incorporating (PHBA) units into the building structures of different unsaturated polyesters synthesized originally from glycolysed PET waste. Modified unsaturated polyesters were synthesized by depolymerizing PET with DEG, and the obtained oligoesters were reacted with PHBA and maleic anhydride (MA). The molar ratio of the added PHBA was varied to investigate its effect on the mechanical characteristics of these modified unsaturated polyesters. The data obtained reveal that increasing the molar ratio of PHBA within the studied range of concentrations leads to a pronounced improvement in the mechanical characteristics, which is represented mainly by the values of/maximum compression strength (σmax) and Young's modulus (EY).

© 2002 Society of Chemical Industry
Theoretical studies on heats of formation for polynitrocubanes using the density functional theory B3LYP method and semiempirical MO methods
Authors: Zhang Ji , Xiao Heming , Gong Xuedong
Published: August 2002

The heats of formation (HOFs) have been calculated for 21 polynitrocubane compounds using semiempirical MO methods (MINDO/3, MNDO, AM1 and PM3) and for eight of 21 polynitrocubanes containing one to four nitro groups using the density functional theory method at the B3LYP/6‐31G* level by means of designed isodesmic reactions. The cubane cage skeletons in the polynitrocubane molecules have been kept in setting up the isodesmic reactions to produce more accurate and reliable results. It is found that there is a good linear relationship between the HOFs of eight polynitrocubanes calculated using the B3LYP/6‐31G* and PM3 methods, but not for the other methods, and the linear correlation coefficient equals 0.9971. Subsequently, accurate HOFs at the B3LYP/6‐31G* level of the other 13 polynitrocubanes containing four to eight nitro groups were obtained by systematically correcting their PM3‐calculated HOFs. All 21 polynitrocubane compounds have high HOFs, implying that they can be very powerful energetic materials. The relationship between the HOFs and molecular structures for polynitrocubanes is discussed. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
From well‐defined diblock copolymers prepared by a versatile atom transfer radical polymerization method to supramolecular assemblies
Authors: Ranger Maxime , Jones Marie‐Christine , Yessine Marie‐Andrée , Leroux Jean‐Christophe
Published: August 2002

The synthesis of well‐defined diblock copolymers by atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP) was explored in detail for the development of new colloidal carriers. The ATRP technique allowed the preparation of diblock copolymers of poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) (number‐average molecular weight: 2000) and ionic or nonionizable hydrophobic segments. Using monofunctionalized PEG macroinitiator, ionizable and hydrophobic monomers were polymerized to obtain the diblock copolymers. This polymerization method provided good control over molecular weights and molecular weight distributions, with monomer conversions as high as 98%. Moreover, the copolymerization of hydrophobic and ionizable monomers using the PEG macroinitiator made it possible to modulate the physicochemical properties of the resulting polymers in solution. Depending on the length and nature of the hydrophobic segment, the nonionic copolymers could self‐assemble in water into nanoparticles or polymeric micelles. For example, the copolymers having a short hydrophobic block (5 < degree of polymerization < 9) formed polymeric micelles in aqueous solution, with an apparent critical association concentration between 2 and 20 mg/L. The interchain association of PEG‐based polymethacrylic acid derivatives was found to be pH‐dependent and occurred at low pH. The amphiphilic and nonionic copolymers could be suitable for the solubilization and delivery of water‐insoluble drugs, whereas the ionic diblock copolymers offer promising characteristics for the delivery of electrostatically charged compounds (e.g., DNA) through the formation of polyion complex micelles. Thus, ATRP represents a promising technique for the design of new multiblock copolymers in drug delivery. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 39: 3861–3874, 2001
Vinyl polymerization with a binary system of p‐chlorobenzenediazonium salt and sodium tetraphenylborate
Authors: Sato Tsuneyuki , Takahashi Toru , Seno Makiko , Hirano Tomohiro
Published: August 2002

A combined system of sodium tetraphenylborate (STPB) and p‐chlorobenzenediazonium tetrafluoroborate (CDF) serves as an effective initiator at low temperatures for acrylate monomers such as methyl methacrylate (MMA), ethyl acrylate, and di‐2‐ethylhexyl itaconate. The polymerization of MMA with the STPB/CDF system has been kinetically investigated in acetone. The polymerization shows a low overall activation energy of 60.3 kJ/mol. The polymerization rate (Rp) at 40 °C is given by Rp = k[STPB/CDF]0.5[MMA]1.6, when the molar ratio of STPB to CDF is kept constant at unity, suggesting that STPB and CDF form a complex with a large stability constant and play an important role in initiation and that MMA participates in the initiation process. From the results of a spin trapping study, p‐chlorophenyl and phenyl radicals are presumed to be generated in the polymerization system. A plausible initiation mechanism is proposed on the basis of kinetic and electron spin resonance results. A large solvent effect on the polymerization can be observed. The largest Rp value in dimethyl sulfoxide is 11 times the smallest value in N,N‐dimethylformamide. The copolymerization of MMA and styrene with the STPB/CDF system gives results somewhat different from those of conventional radical copolymerization. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 39: 4206–4213, 2001
Molecular structure determination of Ni(II) diimine complex and DMA analysis of Ni(II) diimine‐based polyethenes
Authors: Liimatta J. O. , Löfgren B. , Miettinen M. , Ahlgren M. , Haukka M. , Pakkanen T. T.
Published: August 2002

Dynamic mechanical thermoanalysis showed that polyethene, prepared under suitable polymerization conditions with the Brookhart‐type catalyst dibromo‐N,N′‐1,2‐acenaphthylenediylidenebis[2,6‐bis(1‐methylethyl)benzeneamine]Ni(II)/methylaluminoxane (MAO), behaved like an elastomer, even though no comonomer was added. A structural characterization showed that the polymers contained methyl to hexyl branches and some longer branches. The effect of the polymerization conditions on branching was investigated through variations in the pressure and temperature of the polymerization. Depending on the degree and type of branching, polyethene was either quite amorphous or highly crystalline with a high melting temperature. The solid‐state structure of the catalyst dibromo‐N,N′‐1,2‐acenaphthylenediylidenebis[2,6‐bis(1‐methylethyl)benzeneamine]Ni(II) consisted of two centrosymmetrically related monomeric moieties, where Ni atoms were bridged by two bromide ligands. The Ni atom was five‐coordinated, with a square pyramidal coordination polyhedron. The sixth coordination site of the octahedral geometry was effectively blocked by the isopropyl groups of the 2,6‐C6H3(i‐Pr) substituents of the diimine ligand. In solution in the presence of MAO, the longer bridging NiBr bonds broke, and the complex dissociated to a monomeric species. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Polym Sci A: Polym Chem 39: 1426–1434, 2001