bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Contributions of mass spectrometry in the study of nucleic acid‐binding proteins and of nucleic acid–protein interactions
Authors: Rusconi Filippo , Guillonneau François , Praseuth Danièle
Published: March 2003

I.
Introduction
306

II.
Supramolecular Structure Characterization
308

A. A Protein Is Used as a “Hook”
309

   1. Immuno‐Precipitation
309

   2. Tagging with a Poly‐Histidine Sequence
310

   3. Direct Analysis of Large Protein Complexes
311

   4. Tandem Affinity Purification Tag Procedure
312

B. A Nucleic Acid Is Used as a “Hook” or as a “Tracking Label”
314

   1. Purification of a Nucleic Acid–Protein Complex in Solution
316

   2. Preparative Electrophoretic Mobility Shift Assay
317

   3. Surface‐Enhanced Laser Desorption/Ionization
317

   4. Surface Plasmon Resonance
319

   5. Probing Nucleic Acid–Protein Interactions on Membranes
320

III.
Supramolecular Analysis in the Gas Phase
321

IV.
Molecular Structure Characterization
324

A. Determination of the Assembly Topology
324

   1. Non Site‐Directed Cross‐Links
326

   2. Native‐State Chemistry
330

   3. Site‐Directed Cross‐Links
332

B. Regulation of the Complex's Structure and Function
334

   1. Protein Phosphorylation
334

   2. Modification of the Basic Residues
336

   3. Oxidoreduction Balance‐Related Modifications
337

V.
Concluding Remarks
339

A. Factual Contributions
339

B. Perspectives
340

Acknowledgments
341

Abbreviations
341

References
341

Nucleic acid–protein (NA–P) interactions play essential roles in a variety of biological processes—gene expression regulation, DNA repair, chromatin structure regulation, transcription regulation, RNA processing, and translation—to cite only a few. Such biological processes involve a broad spectrum of NA–P interactions as well as protein–protein (P–P) interactions. These interactions are dynamic, in terms of the chemical composition of the complexes involved and in terms of their mere existence, which may be restricted to a given cell‐cycle phase. In this review, the contributions of mass spectrometry (MS) to the deciphering of these intricate networked interactions are described along with the numerous applications in which it has proven useful. Such applications include, for example, the identification of the partners involved in NA–P or P–P complexes, the identification of post‐translational modifications that (may) regulate such complexes' activities, or even the precise molecular mapping of the interaction sites in the NA–P complex. From a biological standpoint, we felt that it was worth the reader's time to be as informative as possible about the functional significance of the analytical methods reviewed herein. From a technical standpoint, because mass spectrometry without proper sample preparation would serve no purpose, each application described in this review is detailed by duly emphasizing the sample preparation—whenever this step is considered innovative—that led to significant analytical achievements. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc., Mass Spec Rev 21:305–348, 2002; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mas.10036
Block factorized preconditioners for high‐order accurate in time approximation of the Navier‐Stokes equations
Authors: Veneziani Alessandro
Published: March 2003

Computationally efficient solution methods for the unsteady Navier‐Stokes incompressible equations are mandatory in real applications of fluid dynamics. A typical strategy to reduce the computational cost is to split the original problem into subproblems involving the separate computation of velocity and pressure. The splitting can be carried out either at a differential level, like in the Chorin‐Temam scheme, or in an algebraic fashion, like in the algebraic reinterpretation of the Chorin‐Temam method, or in the Yosida scheme (see 1 and 19). These fractional step schemes indeed provide effective methods of solution when dealing with first order accurate time discretizations. Their extension to high order time discretization schemes is not trivial. To this end, in the present work we focus our attention on the adoption of inexact algebraic factorizations as preconditioners of the original problem. We investigate their properties and show that some particular choices of the approximate factorization lead to very effective schemes. In particular, we prove that performing a small number of preconditioned iterations is enough to obtain a time accurate solution, irrespective of the dimension of the system at hand. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Numer Methods Partial Differential Eq 19: 487–510, 2003
Stability of polyaniline in air and acidic water
Authors: Hobaica Stephen C.
Published: March 2003

Polyaniline is a member of the class of electrically conducting polymers, having possible commercial applications such as coatings. Aqueous‐based polyaniline coatings are preferred over organic solvent or concentrated strong acid based coatings because water is not a pollutant. The overall goal of this study was to further the development of water‐based polyaniline coatings by an examination of the effect of acidic water (pH 1.18) and air on polyaniline. Knowledge of the effect of water on the structure, molecular weight, electrical conductivity, and diffusion of the dopant assisted in ascertaining whether polyaniline degraded with water exposure. Knowledge of how Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra would be affected by dry air was important for determining if polyaniline was chemically stable with time. The results showed that the molecular weight, ultraviolet–visible and FTIR spectra, and carbon‐to‐nitrogen molar ratio in the polymer backbone all remained unchanged during acidic water immersion. The constant nature of these physical parameters showed a high degree of water stability. A chloride ion diffusion coefficient of 2.8 to 85 × 10−9 cm2/h, the chloride concentration, and the electrical conductivity were also measured with the water immersion time. Aging polyaniline powders in a desiccator for 5 years showed no effect on the molecular structure, as indicated by the FTIR spectrum. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 41: 807–822, 2003
Specific conjugation of DNA binding proteins to DNA templates through thiol–disulfide exchange
Authors: Metelev Valeri G. , Kubareva Elena A. , Vorob'eva Olga V. , Romanenkov Andrey S. , Oretskaya Tatiana S.
Published: March 2003

The double‐stranded oligodeoxyribonucleotides with single internucleotide disulfide linkages were successfully used for covalent trapping of cysteine containing protein. In particular, an efficient conjugation of DNA methyltransferase SsoII to sequence‐specific decoys was demonstrated. The obtained results assume that synthetic oligodeoxyribonucleotides bearing a new trapping site can be used as new tools to study and manipulate biological systems.
Identification of a novel Bcl‐xL phosphorylation site regulating the sensitivity of taxol‐ or 2‐methoxyestradiol‐induced apoptosis
Authors: Basu Aruna , Haldar Subrata
Published: March 2003

Bcl‐xL, a close homolog of Bcl2, is an important regulator of apoptosis and is overexpressed in human cancer. Phosphorylation of Bcl‐xL can be induced by microtubule‐damaging drugs such as taxol or 2‐methoxyestradiol (2‐ME). By site‐directed mutagenesis studies, we have identified that serine 62 is the necessary site for taxol‐ or 2‐ME‐induced Bcl‐xL phosphorylation in prostate cancer cells. Further studies with the inhibitor of Jun kinase (JNK) and phosphorylation null mutant of Bcl‐xL reveal the augmentative role of JNK‐mediated Bcl‐xL phosphorylation in apoptosis of prostate cancer cells. In summary, our studies suggest that the phosphorylation of Bcl‐xL by stress response kinase signaling might oppose the anti‐apoptotic function of Bcl‐xL to permit prostate cancer cells to die by apoptosis.
Identification of mammalian orthologs associates PYPAF5 with distinct functional roles
Authors: Albrecht Mario , Domingues Francisco S. , Schreiber Stefan , Lengauer Thomas
Published: March 2003

PYRIN‐ and CARD‐containing proteins belong to a recently identified protein family involved in the regulation of apoptosis and inflammatory processes. Variations in the gene products of the family members PYPAF1 and NOD2/CARD15 have been associated with several autoinflammatory diseases. We could identify the mouse orthologs of PYPAF1, PYPAF5, NOD1, NOD2 and the rat ortholog of PYPAF5. Intriguingly, we found that PYPAF5 has been reported previously not only as regulator of NF‐κB and caspase‐1, but also as angiotensin II and vasopressin receptor. In particular, based on a comprehensive sequence analysis, we propose a structural model for this hormone receptor that is different from the model suggested previously.
Prenatal Sonographic Diagnosis of Klippel-Trenaunay-Weber Syndrome Associated with Umbilical Cord Hemangioma
Authors: Sahinoglu Zeki , Uludogan Mehmet , Delikara Nuri M.
Published: March 2003

Klippel-Trenaunay-Weber syndrome (KTW), also known as angio-osteohypertrophy syndrome, is a complex developmental disorder characterized by asymmetric hemi-hypertrophy of limbs and trunk due to bony and soft tissue overgrowth that may extend across the midline, varicose veins, and cutaneous hemangiomata. This rare syndrome has been previously described in the prenatal period by ultrasonography, and in literature, there are quite different presentation of cases. We describe a case suggested as a KTW syndrome by prenatal ultrasonography. The sonographic appearance of an unilateral leg hypertrophy associated with irregular echolucent cystic areas was consistent with KTW syndrome. A spheric, weak-echogenic mass without any active blood flow located in the umbilical cord revealed by color Doppler ultrasonography was an unexpected finding. The postpartum examination confirmed the prenatal diagnosis.
Effects of a Herbal Extract on the Bone Density, Strength and Markers of Bone Turnover of Mature Ovariectomized Rats
Authors: Xu Min , Dick Ian M. , Day Robert , Randall Drew , Prince Richard L.
Published: March 2003

For many decades, the Chinese have been using herbal medications to treat bone diseases. To examine effects of an extract of ten medicinal herbs on estrogen deficiency bone loss, ten-month-old female rats were randomly divided into three groups: ovariectomized (OVX), OVX treated with herbs (OVX-M) 4 ml/day by gavage, and OVX treated with estrogen (OVX-E) 10 mg subcutaneously (s.c.) twice per week. The bone mineral density (BMD) of the left femur (fBMD), spine (sBMD) and global body (gBMD) were measured at baseline and at 4, 8 and 12 weeks using a Hologic QDR 2000 dual-energy X-ray densitometer. Tibial strength was tested using the Instron Model 5566 electro-mechanical testing machine. The urinary pyridinoline creatinine ratio (Pyd/Cr), deoxypyridinoline creatinine ratio (Dpd/Cr), plasma alkaline phosphatase (ALP), calcium (CA), phosphorus (P) and albumin (ALB) were also determined. Uterine weight was determined at 12 weeks. The results showed that percent changes of fBMD in the OVX (n = 9), OVX-E (n = 8) and OVX-M (n = 8) rats at the 12-week time point were -11.8 ± 4.6c, 1.8 ± 3.1a, -7.6 ± 1.9abc (p < 0.05-0.001, a: vs. OVX, b: vs. OVX-E, c: vs. baseline); sBMD were -10.7 ± 4.6c, -0.3 ± 5.5a, -5.9 ± 3.5abc; and gBMD were -4.8 ± 2.3c, 0.1 ± 2.4a, -2.7 ± 2.6abc, respectively. Further, the tibia maximum breaking stress and flexural modulus of elasticity in OVX-M rats (295 ± 33a, 18194 ± 3264a) were significantly higher (p < 0.005-0.001) than that in OVX rats (189 ± 83, 10309 ± 4930), and similar to OVX-E rats (298 ± 35a, 18766 ± 2620a). Additionally, the herbal extract reduced the urinary Pyd/Cr, Dpd/Cr and plasma ALP increment followed OVX and was not associated with a rise in uterine weight. In conclusion, the herbal extract demonstrated a therapeutic effect to inhibit bone resorption and to reduce estrogen-dependent bone loss without uterine stimulation. It may have potential as a new approach in treating and preventing postmenopausal osteoporosis (PMOP).
THE MONETARY APPROACH TO THE BALANCE OF PAYMENTS: AN APPLICATION TO BARBADOS
Authors: HOWARD MICHAEL , MAMINGI NLANDU
Published: March 2003

This paper examines the monetary approach to the balance of payments in Barbados, a small open economy with a fixed exchange rate system. We use an error correction mechanism (ECM) approach which shows that the monetary approach applies to Barbados. Such an ECM approach has not been previously employed in other related studies. Our analysis has implications for monetary policy since it confirms that excessive credit expansion leads to balance of payments deficits in fixed exchange rate systems, and the monetary authorities need to hold high levels of reserves in small open economy systems to protect the exchange rate.
COMPARISON OF POINT-, LINE- AND BOUNDARY-SAMPLED INTERCEPTS INSIDE A CIRCLE OR SPHERE
Authors: YANG ZHENG-WEI , WEI GUI-WU
Published: March 2003

Point-, line- or boundary-sampled intercepts may be measured inside a particle as a measure of particle size. Each intercept is primarily characterized by three geometric properties: length, location and orientation. Circle and sphere models are used in the present study to analyze these properties. The probability distribution function, probability density function, expectation and coefficient of variation for each of the properties were presented based on geometric probability and mathematical statistics. Such presentation would be helpful for potential users of stereology to better understand the concept of intercepts and implement stereological intercept measurement for estimation of particle sizes in practice.
Chronic acid exposure leads to activation of thecdx2intestinal homeobox gene in a long-term culture of mouse esophageal keratinocytes
Authors: Marchetti Marta , Caliot Elise , Pringault Eric
Published: March 2003

To explore mechanisms whereby Malpighian keratinocytes can transdifferentiate into an intestinal-like epithelium, as observed in the early steps of Barrett's esophagus (BE) development, long-standing cultures of esophageal keratinocytes derived from normal mouse esophageal explants were developed. These cells were able to form multilayers and to differentiate on filter support by the formation of differentiated layers of basal cells(cytokeratine 14 positive) on which secondary suprabasal cell layers(cytokeratine 4 positive) spontaneously developed. Thus, these cultured cells,referred to as P3E6, reproduced, at least in part, the proliferation and stratification pattern existing in the normal esophagus. Because chronic exposure to acid pH is known to be a critical factor for BE development,culture medium at pH 3.5 was added into the apical chamber of cell cultures. This led to a decrease in the overall number of cells but it did not affect cell proliferation. Furthermore, external acid environment triggered expression of the GFP reporter gene fused downstream of the cdx2 intestinal homeogene regulatory sequences in P3E6 transfected cells. Expression of the endogenous CDX2 protein, detected by western blot and immunocytochemical analysis, correlated with promoter activation. These findings demonstrate that chronic exposure of esophageal keratinocytes to acid pH induces transcription of cdx2, an intestinal specific homeobox gene known to play a critical role in the differentiation and maintenance of intestinal epithelial functions. The results suggest that chronic acid exposure can modify the fate of P3E6 esophageal keratinocytes towards an intestinal program. This can be a key step in the development of intestinal metaplasia often observed in esophagus-cardia junction.
Observation of keratin particles showing fast bidirectional movement colocalized with microtubules
Authors: Liovic Mirjana , Mogensen Mette M. , Prescott Alan R. , Lane E. Birgitte
Published: March 2003

Keratin intermediate filament networks were observed in living cultured epithelial cells using the incorporation of fluorescently tagged keratin from a transfected enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) construct. In steady-state conditions EGFP-keratin exists not only as readily detectable intermediate filaments, but also as small particles, of which there are two types: a less mobile population (slow or static S particles) and a highly dynamic one (fast or F particles). The dynamic F particles move around the cell very fast and in a non-random way. Their movement is composed of a series of steps, giving an overall characteristic zig-zag trajectory. The keratin particles are found all over the cell and their movement is aligned with microtubules; treatment of cells with nocodazole has an inhibitory effect on keratin particle movement, suggesting the involvement of microtubule motor proteins. Double-transfection experiments to visualize tubulin and keratin together suggest that the movement of keratin particles can be bidirectional,as particles are seen moving both towards and away from the centrosome area. Using field emission scanning and transmission electron microscopy combined with immunogold labelling, we also detected particulate keratin structures in untransfected epithelial cells, suggesting that keratin particles may be a natural component of keratin filament dynamics in living cells.
Stoichiometric Decomposition of Pure Water over Pt-Loaded Ti/B Binary Oxide under UV-Irradiation
Authors: Moon Sang-Chul , Mametsuka Hiroaki , Suzuki Eiji , Anpo Masakazu
Published: March 2003

A titanium-boron binary oxide has been prepared by the sol-gel method and used as a photocatalyst for the decomposition of water. The structure of titanium oxide species in the Ti/B binary oxide was amorphous before and crystal after calcination in O2, while the boron oxide species retained its amorphous state. Pt-loaded Ti/B photocatalysts were found to decompose water stoichiometrically in aqueous suspension systems. Their photocatalytic activities decreased markedly with increase in the calcination temperature, indicating that the photocatalytic activity of the Ti/B binary oxide was strongly dependent on the crystal phase of the titanium oxide.
New Lithium Ion Conductor Li3InBr6 Studied by 7Li NMR
Authors: Tomita Yasumasa , Fuji-i Aya , Ohki Hiroshi , Yamada Koji , Okuda Tsutomu
Published: March 2003

Super ionic conductor Li3InBr6 (σ=10−3Scm−1 at 297 K) due to lithium ions was synthesized and characterized by temperature dependence of the 7Li NMR T1. The substitution effect of the cation and the temperature behavior of T1 suggested that the high ionic conductivity resulted from the considerably disordered state of the cationic sublattice.
Cell-expansion of Tris(2,4-pentanedionato)chromium and -aluminum under Light Irradiation
Authors: Okumura Toshihiko , Ikagawa Takashi , Otsuka Takuhiro , Kaizu Youkoh
Published: March 2003

In the previous letter,1 we have reported on the cell-expansion and contraction of platinum(II) complexes under light irradiation and discussed the results in the term of the molecular structures in the excited states. For tris(2,4-pentanedionato)chromium and -aluminum(abbreviated as Cr(acac)3 and Al(acac)3, respectively), we also found the cell-expansion under light irradiation. The X-ray powder patterns of these complexes were shifted to low reflect-angle than original one by light absorption of the complexes. The shift of X-ray powder pattern of Al(acac)3 is due to thermal cell-expansion caused by internal conversion of the molecule under light irradiation. In case of Cr(acac)3, however, the shifts are due to not only the thermal cell-expansion but also another reason concerned with the structures in the excited states.
Preparation of New Carbosilane Dendrimers Carrying Mesogenic Groups
Authors: Terunuma Daiyo , Kato Tomonori , Nishio Rei , Matsuoka Koji , Kuzuhara Hiroyoshi , Aoki Yoshio , Nohira Hiroyuki
Published: March 2003

A series of new carbosilane dendrimers was prepared by repeating a combination of hydrosilation and allylation on a core molecule, triallylphenylsilane. Subsequent hydroboration and oxidation of the dendrimers gave the polyol derivatives, which were treated with a mesogenic molecule, 6-(4-cyanobiphenyl-4′-oxy) hexanoyl chloride, to give new carbosilane dendrimers carrying mesogenic groups. It was found that the all carbosilane dendrimers exhibited liquid crystal phases. The effects of the dendrimer generations on the ranges of liquid crystal temperature were investigated.
Silole-Acetylene π-Electronic Systems with Low Bandgaps: Synthesis, Structure, and UV-vis Absorption Spectra of 2,5-Diethynylsiloles Derivatives and Their Polymers
Authors: Yamaguchi Shigehiro , Iimura Kazuo , Tamao Kohei
Published: March 2003

A series of 2,5-diethynylsilole derivatives and their polymers, prepared by the Stille coupling reaction, show unique optical properties such as long-wavelength absorptions in their UV-vis absorption spectra.
Synthesis and Structure of a Series of Oligo[1,1-(2,3,4,5-tetramethylsilole)]s
Authors: Kanno Ken-ichiro , Ichinohe Masaaki , Kabuto Chizuko , Kira Mitsuo
Published: March 2003

A series of oligo(1,1-silole)s, Me3Si[SiC4Me4]n SiMe3 (3: n=3, 4:n=4, 5:n=5) were synthesized and characterized. X-ray diffraction analysis of tersilole 3 revealed that the pentasilane backbone has almost all-trans conformation. The oligo(1,1-silole)s show distinct UV absorptions due to σ-σ*, σ-π*, and π-π* transitions.
1,3-Bis[5-(dimesitylboryl)thiophen-2-yl]benzene and 1,3,5-Tris[5-(dimesitylboryl)thiophen-2-yl]benzene as a Novel Family of Electron-Transporting Hole Blockers for Organic Electroluminescent Devices
Authors: Kinoshita Motoi , Shirota Yasuhiko
Published: March 2003

A novel family of electron-transporting hole blockers, 1,3-bis[5-(dimesitylboryl)thiophen-2-yl]benzene and 1,3,5-tris[5-(dimesitylboryl)thiophen-2-yl]benzene (TMB-TB), were designed and synthesized. They were found to exhibit multiple redox behavior in electrochemical reduction and to readily form stable amorphous glasses with high glass-transition temperatures above 100 °C. TMB-TB was proven to function well as a hole blocker in blue-emitting organic electroluminescent devices.
[2+2]-Cycloaddition Reaction of Styrene Derivatives Using an Fe(III) Salt Catalyst
Authors: Ohara Hiroyuki , Itoh Toshiyuki , Nakamura Masaharu , Nakamura Eiichi
Published: March 2003

Iron(III) perchlorate catalyzed cyclodimerization of trans-anethole gave trans,anti,trans-cyclobutane stereospecifically in good yield. Alumina supported iron(III) perchlorate was an especially efficient one-electron oxidation reagent.
Intercalation of Metalloporphyrin-Surfactant Complex into Layered Niobate and the Photochemical Injection of Electrons to Niobate
Authors: Yamaguchi Yorihisa , Yui Tatsuto , Takagi Shinsuke , Shimada Tetsuya , Inoue Haruo
Published: March 2003

An anionic metalloporphyrin (Zn(II)TCPP4−) was successfully co-intercalated into the layered oxide K4Nb6O17 with cationic surfactant (CTAB). Photochemical injection of electrons into the niobate layer was observed.
Fabrication of Polymer Particle Monolayer onto Alkylated Glass Plates
Authors: Yamaguchi Keizo , Taniguchi Tatsuo , Kawaguchi Seigou , Nagai Katsutoshi
Published: March 2003

Polymer particle monolayer was fabricated onto alkylated glass plates. The concentration of sodium chloride and cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) was found to play a key role in control of the morphology and coverage of the monolayer on the alkylated glass plates.
New Synthetic Method of Benzaldehydes and α,β-Unsaturated Aldehydes with I2 under Photoirradiation
Authors: Itoh Akichika , Kodama Tomohiro , Masaki Yukio
Published: March 2003

Benzylic alcohols and allylic alcohols were found to be oxidized to the corresponding benzaldehydes and α,β-unsaturated aldehydes easily in the presence of I2 under photoirradiation.
High Lithium Ion Conductivity of Glass–Ceramics Derived from Mechanically Milled Glassy Powders
Authors: Hayashi Akitoshi , Hama Shigenori , Morimoto Hideyuki , Tatsumisago Masahiro , Minami Tsutomu
Published: March 2003

Crystallization of the 80Li2S·20P2S5 (mol%) glassy powders derived from mechanical milling improved their conductivities. The obtained glass–ceramic exhibited high conductivity of approximately 10−3 S cm−1 at room temperature. The stabilization of the high-temperature phase of Li7PS6 crystal in the glass matrix brought about those high conductivities.
Photo-Induced Long-Lived Intramolecular Electron Transfer in a Co Valence Tautomeric Complex
Authors: Sato Osamu , Hayami Shinya , Gu Zhong-ze , Seki Kanako , Nakajima Rie , Fujishima Akira
Published: March 2003

A photo-induced valence tautomerism was observed in a Co complex, [CoIII-LS(phen)(3,5-DBSQ)(3,5-DBCat)]. In this system, visible light illumination induces an electron transfer from 3,5-DBCat to CoIII-LS, producing [CoII-HS(phen)(3,5-DBSQ)2]. The resultant photo-induced metastable state could be trapped more than 1 h at 5 K.
Observation of Highly Ordered 3 × 4 Phase of Ethanethiol Self-Assembled Monolayer on Au(111)
Authors: Kawasaki Mitsuo , Nagayama Hiromichi
Published: March 2003

A novel observation of a highly ordered self-assembled monolayer of ethanethiol (a very short-chain alkanethiol) on Au(111) is reported. A good structural perfection of the monolayer allowed a surprisingly high-resolution STM imaging clearly uncovering the unique 3 × 4 unit cell and the detailed atomic arrangement therein. Along with the infrared reflection absorption spectrum of the monolayer the results indicate that the interchain interactions involving such short alkyl chains can still play a dominant role in controlling the overall monolayer structure.
The effect of cigarette smoking on musculoskeletal‐related disability
Authors: Lincoln Andrew E. , Smith Gordon S. , Amoroso Paul J. , Bell Nicole S.
Published: March 2003

Background

This study describes cigarette smoking's effect on development of physical disability following initial musculoskeletal‐related hospitalization.

Methods

We followed 15,140 US Army personnel hospitalized for common musculoskeletal disorders between 1989–1996 for up to 8 years (1997) to assess risk for long‐term physical disability.

Results

Trends between increased smoking level and long‐term disability were identified for persons with knee injuries, rotator cuff injuries, and intervertebral disc displacement. In proportional hazards models, disability was significantly associated with heavy smoking among all subjects (relative hazard (RH) = 1.21). Both heavy smokers (RH = 1.49) and light to moderate smokers (RH = 1.44) were at greater risk for disability following meniscal injuries. Excess fraction due to smoking among subjects with meniscal injuries who currently smoke was 38%.

Conclusions

Findings suggest an association between smoking and development of disability following meniscal injury. Given the high excess fraction of disability associated with smoking, other studies are needed to confirm this association. Am. J. Ind. Med. 43:337–349, 2003. Published 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effectiveness of participation as a defendant: the attorney–juvenile client relationship
Authors: Schmidt Melinda G. , Reppucci N. Dickon , Woolard Jennifer L.
Published: March 2003

Recent changes in the processing of juveniles in the justice system place greater significance on children's capacities to participate in legal contexts. Effective participation as a defendant encompasses abilities beyond those legally required for adjudicative competence, which may nevertheless influence the quality and nature of a defendant's participation in the trial process. Based in developmental judgment theory, the current study compares 203 juveniles and 110 adults detained pre‐trial using a hypothetical attorney–client vignette to examine how psychosocial factors are reflected in decision‐making processes and link to decision outcomes and effective participation within the attorney–client relationship. Age‐related differences in legally relevant decision‐making processes and outcomes are identified, and implications for policy are made. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Electronic and Steric Substituent Influences on the Conformational Equilibria of Cyclohexyl Esters: The Anomeric Effect Is Not Anomalous!
Authors: Kleinpeter Erich , Taddei Ferdinando , Wacker Philipp
Published: March 2003

The cyclohexyl esters of a series of carboxylic acids, RCO2H, spanning a range of electronegativities and quotients of steric hindrance for the R substituent (R=Me, Et, iPr, tBu, CF3, CH2Cl, CHCl2, CCl3, CH2Br, CHBr2, and CBr3) were prepared. Their conformational equilibria in CD2Cl2 were examined by low‐temperature 1H NMR spectroscopy to study the axial or equatorial orientation of the ester functionality with respect to the adopted chair conformation of the cyclohexane ring. The ab initio and DFT geometry‐optimized structures and relative free energies of the axial and equatorial conformers were also calculated at the HF/6‐311G**, MP2/6‐311G**, and B3LYP/6‐31G** levels of theory, both in the gas phase and in solution. In the latter case, a self‐consistent isodensity polarized continuum model was employed. Only by including electron correlation in the modeling calculations for the solvated molecules was it possible to obtain a reasonable correlation between ΔG°calcd and ΔG°exp. Both the structures and the free energy differences of the axial and equatorial conformers were evaluated with respect to the factors normally influencing conformational preference, namely, 1,3‐diaxial steric interactions in the axial conformer and hyperconjugation. It was assessed that hyperconjugative interactions, σCC/σCH and σ*CO, together with a steric effect—the destabilization of the equatorial conformer with increasing bulk of the R group—were the determinant factors for the position of the conformational equilibria. Thus, because hyperconjugation is held responsible as the mitigating factor for the anomeric effect in 2‐substituted, six‐membered saturated heterocyclic rings, and since it is also similarly responsible, at least partly, in these monosubstituted cyclohexanes for a preferential shift towards the axial conformer, the question is therefore raised: can the anomeric effect really be construed as anomalous?
A Short Total Synthesis of the Alkaloids Piperolactam C, Goniopedaline, and Stigmalactam
Authors: Rys Véronique , Couture Axel , Deniau Eric , Grandclaudon Pierre
Published: March 2003

The total synthesis of the polyalkoxylated alkaloids piperolactam C, goniopedaline and stigmalactam by combinatorial metalation/cyclization strategies has been achieved. The synthetic route involved the preliminary construction of the polyalkoxylated isoindolinone template by Parham’s technique. Benzylic lactam deprotonation allowed connection of a hydroxybenzyl appendage, and the synthesis of the target natural products was completed by subsequent E1cB elimination, radical cyclization and final deprotection. (© Wiley‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, 69451 Weinheim, Germany, 2003)
Function of hippocampus in “insight” of problem solving
Authors: Luo Jing , Niki Kazuhisa
Published: March 2003

Since the work of Wolfgang Köhler, the process of “insight” in problem solving has been the subject of considerable investigation. Yet, the neural correlates of “insight” remain unknown. Theoretically, “insight” means the reorientation of one's thinking, including breaking of the unwarranted “fixation” and forming of novel, task‐related associations among the old nodes of concepts or cognitive skills. Processes closely related to these aspects have been implicated in the hippocampus. In this research, the neural correlates of “insight” were investigated using Japanese riddles, by imaging the answer presentation and comprehension events, just after participants failed to resolve them. The results of event‐related functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) analysis demonstrated that the right hippocampus was critically highlighted and that a wide cerebral cortex was also involved in this “insight” event. To the best of our knowledge, this work is the first neuroimaging study to have investigated the neural correlates of “insight” in problem solving. Hippocampus 2003;13:316–323. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Intracellular and extracellular roles of S100 proteins
Authors: Donato Rosario
Published: March 2003

S100, a multigenic family of non‐ubiquitous Ca2+‐modulated proteins of the EF‐hand type expressed in vertebrates exclusively, has been implicated in intracellular and extracellular regulatory activities. Members of this protein family have been shown to interact with several effector proteins within cells thereby regulating enzyme activities, the dynamics of cytoskeleton constituents, cell growth and differentiation, and Ca2+ homeostasis. Structural information indicates that most of S100 proteins exist in the form of antiparallelly packed homodimers (in some cases heterodimers), capable of functionally crossbridging two homologous or heterologous target proteins in a Ca2+‐dependent (and, in some instances, Ca2+‐independent) manner. In addition, extracellular roles have been described for several S100 members, although secretion (via an unknown mechanism) has been documented for a few of them. Extracellular S100 proteins have been shown to exert regulatory effects on inflammatory cells, neurons, astrocytes, microglia, and endothelial and epithelial cells, and a cell surface receptor, RAGE, has been identified as a potential S100A12 and S100B receptor transducing the effects of these two proteins on inflammatory cells and neurons. Other cell surface molecules with ability to interact with S100 members have been identified, suggesting that RAGE might not be a universal S100 protein receptor and/or that a single S100 protein might interact with more than one receptor. Collectively, these data indicate that members of the S100 protein family are multifunctional proteins implicated in the regulation of a variety of cellular activities. Microsc. Res. Tech. 60:540–551, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Increased nuclear factor‐κB p65 immunoreactivity following retinal ischemia and reperfusion injury in mice
Authors: Chen Yue‐guo , Zhang Cheng , Chiang Samuel K.S. , Wu Tinghuai , Tso Mark O.M.
Published: March 2003

Nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) is a universal transcription factor and has previously been demonstrated to play an important role in CNS injury. This study investigated the expression of NF‐κB in the inner layers of the retina in mice after retinal ischemia and reperfusion injury. Retinal ischemia was induced by elevation of intraocular pressure to 120 mmHg for 60 min. To evaluate inner retinal degeneration, the inner retinal thickness was quantified with an image‐analysis system. The inner retinal thickness increased in the initial 24 hr after retinal ischemia and was ascribed to tissue edema but was significantly decreased in the ensuing 7 days. Immunohistochemistry using NF‐κB p65 monoclonal antibody was performed on the retina and was corelated with TUNEL labeling. Six hours after retinal ischemia, nuclear p65 immunoreactivity was increased in the inner nuclear and ganglion cell layers and reached a peak at 24 hr. The increased NF‐κB p65 immunolabeling was parallel to the TUNEL labeling. Double labeling with p65 and TUNEL showed partial colocalization of p65 and TUNEL labeling in the scattered cells of the inner nuclear and ganglion cell layers. However, several p65‐positive cells were TUNEL negative, suggesting that these cells might have survived the injury. The NF‐κB p65 immunoreactivity was associated with retinal degeneration following retinal ischemia and reperfusion injury. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Microstructure and Thermal Properties of Polylactides with Different L‐ and D‐Unit Sequences: Importance of the Helical Nature of the L‐Sequenced Segments
Authors: Urayama Hiroshi , Moon Sung‐Il , Kimura Yoshiharu
Published: March 2003

A series of polylactides (PLA) with different stereo sequences are prepared by the copolymerization of L‐lactide and DL‐lactide. It is confirmed that the glass transition temperature (Tg) of the PLA decreases with decreasing optical purity of the lactate units (%ee) according to the Fox's equation. Analysis of the FT‐IR spectra of these PLA samples reveals that the absorbance at 1 265 cm−1 (δCH + νCOC) decreases with increasing L‐content while the absorbance at 1 210 cm−1 (νasCOC + rasCH3) increases with increasing L‐content. These changes in absorbance are reasonably correlated with the randomness and helical nature of the L‐sequenced segments involved in PLA. Namely, the PLA chains with higher L‐content comprise a higher number of short helical blocks that are made of several L‐lactate units. This difference in helical nature causes the opposite dependences of Tg and density on the L‐content of PLA; i.e., the increased Tg and decreased density with increasing L‐content.

FT‐IR spectra of a PDLLA film, NO‐PLLA, and BO‐PLLA.

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FT‐IR spectra of a PDLLA film, NO‐PLLA, and BO‐PLLA.
Urease‐Catalyzed Carbonate Precipitation inside the Restricted Volume of Polyelectrolyte Capsules
Authors: Antipov Alexei , Shchukin Dmitry , Fedutik Yuri , Zanaveskina Irina , Klechkovskaya Vera , Sukhorukov Gleb , Möhwald Helmuth
Published: March 2003

A new biomimetic approach for performing CaCO3 synthesis exclusively inside micron‐sized polyelectrolyte capsules, based on the fermentative formation of a precipitative agent (CO32− anion) by urease‐catalyzed urea hydrolysis, was developed. Precipitated CaCO3 completely fills the interior capsule volume and has a metastable vaterite phase.

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Structure–electrical property study of anisotropic polyaniline films
Authors: Ou Runqing , Gerhardt Rosario A. , Samuels Robert J.
Published: March 2003

The relationships of the structure and electrical properties of anisotropic HCl‐doped polyaniline (PANI) films cast from N,N′‐dimethylpropylene urea (DMPU) solutions and stretched to different draw ratios were studied. The anisotropic structure of the stretched PANI films was examined by X‐ray diffraction, near‐infrared wave‐guide coupling, and polarized infrared measurements. The PANI emeraldine base (EB) films cast from DMPU solutions had a single‐phase noncrystalline structure, and stretching of the films did not cause crystallization to occur. The transition moment angles of two weakly absorbing infrared bands were determined, and the Hermans' orientation functions for the PANI EB films were calculated. The PANI films were then doped with HCl, and the electrical properties were determined by impedance spectroscopy. With a specially designed test fixture, the in‐plane and through‐plane impedance was obtained. The conductivity along the stretch direction increased with orientation. The in‐plane conductivity was significantly higher than the through‐plane conductivity. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 41: 823–841, 2003
Purification of active recombinant trypanosome alternative oxidase
Authors: Nihei Coichi , Fukai Yoshihisa , Kawai Keisuke , Osanai Arihiro , Yabu Yoshisada , Suzuki Takashi , Ohta Nobuo , Minagawa Nobuko , Nagai Kazuo , Kita Kiyoshi
Published: March 2003

Trypanosome alternative oxidase (TAO) is the terminal oxidase of the respiratory chain in long slender bloodstream forms of African trypanosomes. TAO is a cytochrome‐independent, cyanide‐insensitive quinol oxidase. These characteristics are distinct from those of the bacterial quinol oxidases, proteins that belong to the heme‐copper terminal oxidase superfamily. The inability to purify stable TAO has severely hampered biochemical studies of the alternative oxidase family. In the present study, we were able to purify recombinant TAO to homogeneity from Escherichia coli membranes using the detergent digitonin. Kinetic analysis of the purified TAO revealed that the specific inhibitor ascofuranone is a competitive inhibitor of ubiquinol oxidase activity.
Nucleoporation of dendritic cells: efficient gene transfer by electroporation into human monocyte‐derived dendritic cells1
Authors: Lenz Petra , Bacot Silvia M. , Frazier-Jessen Michelle R. , Feldman Gerald M.
Published: March 2003

Dendritic cells (DCs) are ideal accessory cells in the developing field of gene therapy. Although viral transfection of DCs has become widespread, non‐viral transfection of DCs has shown disappointing results. Recently, a new technique for transfecting primary cells has become available – the Amaxa Nucleofector™. Here, we describe the use of this device in the successful non‐viral transfection of human monocyte‐derived DCs. Using enhanced green fluorescent protein as a reporter gene DCs were transfectable with efficiencies approaching 60%, remaining responsive to lipopolysaccharide‐stimulated cytokine production in short‐term experiments (though long‐term functional assays were hampered by loss of viability). Although these data demonstrate the ease and efficiency with which human monocyte‐derived DCs can now be non‐virally transfected, they also suggest the limitations of this technology due to the gradual loss of cell viability. The potential use of this system in the development of DC‐based cell and gene therapies will be hampered until cell viability can be maintained.
Mechanisms of pigment dispersion
Authors: Lin L.
Published: March 2003

In the “dry” state, pigment particles are held together by attraction forces of various physical chemical natures including the van der Waals force and the “liquid bridge” force. These attraction forces must be overcome in order to disperse pigment particles into liquid media. Dispersion machinery is designed to generate energy required to overcome, to various extents, such attraction forces. On the other hand, the efficiency of dispersion operation is significantly dependent upon the effectiveness of the transfer of energy from the dispersion tools/dispersion charges to the oversized pigment particles, as a result of the presence of the adhesion and cohesion within the dispersion system. This paper explores the nature and the significance of various forces between pigment particles and of the adhesion and cohesion phenomena associated with pigment dispersion, from a practical point of view. Principles relevant to improving the efficiency of pigment dispersion via minimisation of the adhesion between pigment particles and via maximisation of the adhesion and cohesion within the dispersion system are also discussed.
Effect of Dai-kenchu-to on Obstructive Bowel Disease in Children
Authors: Ohya Toshiki , Usui Yoshiko , Arii Shigeki , Iwai Takehisa , Tsunoda Susumu
Published: March 2003

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of a traditional Chinese herbal medicine, Dai-kenchu-to (DKT), on obstructive bowel diseases in children. We have treated 46 pediatric patients with various obstructive bowel diseases with DKT: six patients with postoperative ileus, 12 with large abdominal surgery (including three neonates), one with ano-rectal anomaly, three with Hirschsprung's disease, two with functional bowel obstructions, one with SMA syndrome, and 21 patients with chronic constipation. DKT (0.1-0.15 g/kg) was mixed with 5–10 ml of warm water, and was given orally two to three times a day. DKT was effective for 39 patients (85%) and their clinical symptoms improved. DKT was ineffective in seven patients: two with postoperative ileus, two with Hirschsprung's disease, and three with chronic constipation. DKT had mild but significant effects for various obstructive bowel diseases in children, while no side effects were encountered. Our current strategy for pediatric patients with obstructive bowel disease is to use DKT first and then test its efficacy. If DKT is effective, the regimen is continued. However, in cases where DKT is not effective, we will consider laparotomy or will further investigate the illness.
AUTOMATIC ANALYSIS OF ECHOCARDIOGRAPHIC VIDEO RECORDINGS
Authors: LATALA ZBIGNIEW , WOJNAR LESZEK , SZYDLOWSKI LESLAW
Published: March 2003

Examinations of the left ventricle (LV), which is the systemic ventricle and as such of paramount importance for the function of the heart, are commonly employed in cardiology. Numerous models have been developed that allow for LV parametric representation. Thanks to that, the left ventricle is better suited for all types of modeling endeavors and the correctness of the results may be relatively easily verified.

The authors present a new method for an automatic detection and evaluation of the left ventricle, which is seen as an echocardiographic image in the four-chamber projection. The method is based on computerized image analysis, and in particular, on mathematical morphology.4,6,8,9,11,12 Investigations and the preliminary verification of the method have been carried out on complete cycles registered on video in the course of examinations. It is the complete cycles only that allow us to follow the dynamics of cardiac function.

As a result of long-term collaboration with cardiologists, an algorithm has been developed that allows for an automatic LV detection. A precise delineation of its borders allows for an objective description of changes in geometric parameters in the course of the entire cycle and for a quantitative analysis of the left ventricular function.
Mechanics of cell spreading: role of myosin II
Authors: Wakatsuki Tetsuro , Wysolmerski Robert B. , Elson Elliot L.
Published: March 2003

As it migrates over a substratum, a cell must exert different kinds of forces that act at various cellular locations and at specific times. These forces must therefore be coordinately regulated. The Rho-family GTPases Rac1 and Cdc42 promote actin polymerization that drives extension of the leading cell edge. Subsequently, RhoA regulates myosin-dependent contractile force,which is required for formation of adhesive contacts and stress fibers. During cell spreading, however, the activity of RhoA is reduced by a mechanism involving the tyrosine kinases c-Src and focal adhesion kinase (FAK), and the p190RhoGAP. It has been proposed that this reduction of RhoA activity facilitates edge extension by reducing myosin-dependent contractile forces that could resist this process. We have directly tested this hypothesis by correlating myosin activity with the rate of cell spreading on a substratum. The rate of spreading is inversely related to the myosin activity. Furthermore, spreading is inhibited by low concentrations of cytochalasin D,as expected for a process that depends on the growth of uncapped actin filaments. Cell indentation measurements show that a myosin-dependent viscoelastic force resists cell deformation.
29Si and 1H NMR of Natural and Synthetic Xonotlite
Authors: Noma Hiroaki , Adachi Yoshio , Matsuda Yoshihisa , Yokoyama Takushi
Published: March 2003

This is the first report to show that the two 29Si-NMR signals (−86.3, −87.1 ppm) of Q2 of natural and synthetic xonotlites were clearly split, which is in accord with the crystal structure study of Kudoh et al.1 The 1H-NMR spectra were deconvoluted into three lines at 2.19, 1.86 and 5.26 ppm and assigned to structural Ca-OH, Si-OH and molecular water, respectively. The signal intensities are in good agreement with the thermogravimetric analysis.
Dependence of Catalytic Activity in CO Hydrogenation on Strong Basic Sites of ZrO2 Surface
Authors: Lu Lianhai , Hayakawa Tomoki , Ueda Tetsuji , Hara Michikazu , Domen Kazunari , Maruya Ken-ichi
Published: March 2003

Thermal desorption (TD) study on CO2-adsorbed ZrO2 showed that the activity of ZrO2 in isosynthesis of isobutene from CO+ H2 is closely related to the strong basic sites on its surface.
Selective Synthesis of 1-Aryl-2-ferrocenylethylene by Cross-Metathesis
Authors: Yasuda Tomohiro , Abe Jiro , Iyoda Tomokazu , Kawai Tadashi
Published: March 2003

Novel synthesis of π-conjugated molecules by cross-metathesis reaction of vinylferrocene with a series of vinylarenes was investigated with a molybdenum-based Schrock catalyst (CHCMe2Ph)Mo(N-2,6-i-Pr2C6H3)[OCMe(CF3)2]2. The cross-metathesis reactions occurred successfully and the cross-metathesis product, i.e., heterodimers, were readily obtained selectively, together with only small amounts of the corresponding self-dimers.