bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intronic deletion affecting a negative regulatory region of TP73 is related to breast and colorectal carcinomas
Authors: Peña Cristina , Garcia Jose M. , Dominguez Gemma , Silva Javier , Garcia Vanesa , Carcereny Enric , Vargas Javier , Provencio Mariano , España Pilar , Bonilla Felix
Published: January 2004

The TP73 gene encodes a nuclear protein that has high homology with TP53. TP73 is rarely mutated in human cancer. The presence of a 1‐kb regulatory fragment within the first intron of TP73 was recently reported. This fragment exerts silencer activity on TP73 mediated by ZEB. We searched for possible mutations in this negative regulatory region in 45 colorectal and 43 breast cancer patients and in 34 healthy donors. The study was carried out using the SSCP method, and the allelic variants detected were sequenced. The expression of TP73 was analyzed by quantitative RT‐PCR, and loss of heterozygosity (LOH) was assessed by microsatellite study. In several samples, we identified an allele variant that corresponds to a deletion of 73 bp in tumor tissues and normal counterparts, localized between −489 and −417 from the ATG start site of exon 2. Among the 88 tumor samples, 35 (40%) showed at least 1 allele with the cited deletion, versus 7 of the 34 (21%) healthy donors (P = 0.045). When we classified the patients according to the number of variations into homozygous or heterozygous groups, the significance was clearer (P = 0.03). No LOH was detected in the heterozygous cases. There was a positive quantitative correlation between the expression of TP73 and the presence of the allelic variant (P = 0.029). These data suggest that this allelic variant is common in breast and colorectal cancers and that it could alter the expression of the TP73 gene with an additive effect. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Expression profiling of the influence of RAS mutants on the TGFB1‐induced phenotype of the pancreatic cancer cell line PANC‐1
Authors: Fensterer Heiko , Giehl Klaudia , Buchholz Malte , Ellenrieder Volker , Buck Anita , Kestler Hans A. , Adler Guido , Gierschik Peter , Gress Thomas M.
Published: January 2004

Expression profiling analyses were used to elucidate the functional relevance of RAS proteins in mediating the effect of TGFB1 on the transcriptional phenotype of the pancreatic cancer cell line PANC‐1. Despite the presence of one mutated KRAS2 allele in parental PANC‐1 pancreatic cancer cells, RAS‐dependent signal transduction remained susceptible to stimulation by EGF and TGFB1. To analyze the impact of RAS proteins on the TGFB1‐induced transcriptional phenotype, we used PANC‐1 cells stably transfected with a dominant negative HRAS(S17N) mutant or with a constitutively active KRAS2(G12V) mutant. TGFB1 treatment of mock‐transfected PANC‐1 cells led to an expression profile suggestive of epithelial‐mesenchymal transdifferentiation (EMT). Profiling of the HRAS(S17N)‐expressing clone demonstrated that induction of endogenous RAS activity by TGFB1 is required for the development of the TGFB1‐induced transcriptional phenotype of PANC‐1 cells. The expression of the KRAS2(G12V) mutant by itself repressed transcription of markers of epithelial differentiation and induced transcription of several extracellular matrix‐associated genes. This effect was not enhanced further by TGFB1 treatment. In contrast, transcript levels of genes associated with proliferation and cell cycle progression did not appear to be the primary targets of the synergism between the RAS‐ and TGFB1‐dependent cascades. The introduction of the dominant negative and the constitutively active RAS mutants induced partly overlapping and partly inverse effects on the TGFB1‐induced expression profile of PANC‐1 cells. Additional mechanisms such as the induction of autocrine loops and the use of different RAS isoforms or alternate, ERK‐independent signaling pathways may be involved in the interaction between the RAS‐ and the TGFB1‐dependent signaling cascades. © 2004 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Desymmetrization of N‐Sulfonated Aziridines by Alkyllithium Reagents in the Presence of Chiral Ligands
Authors: Müller Paul , Riegert David , Bernardinelli Gérald
Published: February 2004

The stereochemical course of the rearrangement of the N‐sulfonylaziridines 5, 15, and 25 in the presence of s‐BuLi/(−)‐sparteine to the bicyclic sulfonamides 4, 16, and 17, respectively, has been investigated chemically and by X‐ray structure analysis. The absolute configurations of the products were, in all cases, opposite to those of the alcohols formed upon rearrangement of the corresponding epoxides. Similarily, the allylic sulfonamide 10, resulting from rearrangement of 7‐[(4‐methylphenyl)sulfonyl]‐7‐azabicyclo[4.1.0]heptane (7) under the same reaction conditions, had the (R)‐configuration, while cyclohexen‐3‐ol, obtained upon rearrangement of cyclohexene oxide, is known to be (S)‐configured. Deuterium labelling showed that the rearrangement of 7 proceeds via enantioselective α‐elimination to a carbene, which undergoes a 1,2‐H shift.
Triplet‐Sensitized Photodeprotection of Oligonucleotides in Solution and on Microarray Chips
Authors: Wöll Dominik , Walbert Stefan , Stengele Klaus‐Peter , Albert Tom J. , Richmond Todd , Norton Jason , Singer Michael , Green Roland D. , Pfleiderer Wolfgang , Steiner Ulrich E.
Published: February 2004

Conditions and kinetics of triplet sensitization as a method for increasing the light sensitivity of photolabile protecting groups used for the photolithographic synthesis of oligonucleotide microarrays were quantitatively studied with the photolabile 2‐(2‐nitrophenyl)propyl protecting group in homogeneous solutions and on glass substrates by using laser flash photolysis, continuous illumination with HPLC analysis, fluorescence dye labelling, and hybridization. In terms of efficiency and avoidance of chemical side reactions, 9H‐thioxanthen‐9‐one was the most‐suitable sensitizer. Both in solution and on a glass substrate, the photostationary kinetics were quantitatively modelled and the relevant kinetic parameters determined. While the sensitization kinetics was diffusion‐controlled both in solution and on the chip, the photostationary kinetics was essentially of zero order only on the chip because here the triplet‐quenching effect of the released photoproduct 2‐(2‐nitrophenyl)propene was suppressed as a consequence of the inhomogeneous reaction that took place in a narrow diffusion zone above the surface from where the photoproducts could quickly escape. The kinetic simulation allowed quantitative estimate of the density of reactive groups on the surface. It was further demonstrated that, with 9H‐thioxanthen‐9‐one as a sensitizer, high‐density oligonucleotide microarrays of high quality can be produced with one‐third of the normal exposure time.
New Triterpene Saponins from Acanthophyllum pachystegium
Authors: Haddad Mohamed , Miyamoto Tomofumi , Ramezani Mohammad , Lacaille‐Dubois Marie‐Aleth
Published: February 2004

Four new triterpenoid saponins, pachystegiosides A (1), B (2), C (3), and D (4), were isolated from the roots of Acanthophyllum pachystegium K. H. Their structures were elucidated by means of a combination of homo‐ and heteronuclear 2D‐NMR techniques (COSY, TOCSY, NOESY, HSQC, and HMBC) and by FAB‐MS. The new compounds were characterized as 3‐O‐{O‐β‐D‐galactopyranosyl‐(1→2)‐O‐[β‐D‐xylopyranosyl‐(1→3)]‐β‐D‐glucuronopyranosyl}quillaic acid 28‐{O‐β‐D‐xylopyranosyl‐(1→3)‐O‐β‐D‐xylopyranosyl‐(1→4)‐O‐α‐L‐rhamnopyranosyl‐(1→2)‐O‐[3,4‐di‐O‐acetyl‐β‐D‐quinovopyranosyl‐(1→4)]‐β‐D‐fucopyranosyl}ester (1), 3‐O‐{O‐β‐D‐galactopyranosyl‐(1→2)‐O‐[β‐D‐xylopyranosyl‐(1→3)]‐β‐D‐glucuronopyranosyl}quillaic acid 28‐{O‐β‐D‐xylopyranosyl‐(1→3)‐O‐β‐D‐xylopyranosyl‐(1→4)‐O‐α‐L‐rhamnopyranosyl‐(1→2)‐O‐[4‐O‐acetyl‐β‐D‐quinovopyranosyl‐(1→4)]‐β‐D‐fucopyranosyl} ester (2), 3‐O‐{O‐β‐D‐galactopyranosyl‐(1→2)‐O‐[β‐D‐xylopyranosyl‐(1→3)]‐β‐D‐glucuronopyranosyl}quillaic acid 28‐{O‐β‐D‐xylopyranosyl‐(1→4)‐O‐α‐L‐rhamnopyranosyl‐(1→2)‐O‐[4‐O‐acetyl‐β‐D‐quinovopyranosyl‐(1→4)]‐β‐D‐fucopyranosyl} ester (3), and gypsogenic acid 28‐[O‐β‐D‐glucopyranosyl‐(1→2)‐O‐β‐D‐glucopyranosyl‐(1→6)‐O‐β‐D‐glucopyranosyl‐(1→3)‐β‐D‐galactopyranosyl] ester (4).
Applications of GIS in admissions and targeting recruiting efforts
Authors: Mora Victor J.
Published: January 2004

This chapter illustrates how Ohio State University has been using GIS to help with strategic and tactical decisions in student recruitment at its Columbus campus.
Mapping data on enrolled students
Authors: Granados Manuel
Published: January 2004

This chapter illustrates application of GIS techniques to analysis of student enrollment at a major university.
Developing enterprise GIS for university administration: Organizational and strategic considerations
Authors: McCormick B. Grant
Published: January 2004

This chapter is based on the author's experience working with geographic information systems (GIS) at the University of Arizona, along with insights gained through literature reviews and dialogue with staff at other universities.
Structure‐based discovery of a new affinity ligand to pancreatic α‐amylase
Authors: Westerfors Maria , Tedebark Ulf , Andersson Hans O , Öhrman Sara , Choudhury Devapriya , Ersoy Oguz , Shinohara Yasuro , Axén Andreas , Carredano Enrique , Baumann Herbert
Published: January 2004

A ligand useful for affinity capture of porcine pancreatic α‐amylase was found by virtual screening of the commercially available compound data base MDL® Available Chemicals Directory. Hits from the virtual screening were investigated for binding by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and surface plasmon resonance. Selected compounds were tested for inhibition of the enzyme using a NMR‐based assay. One of the binders found was covalently coupled to a chromatographic resin and a column, packed with this resin, could retain α‐amylase, which subsequently was eluted by introduction of the known inhibitor acarbose to the elution buffer. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Molecular imprinting of nitrophenol and hydroxybenzoic acid isomers: effect of molecular structure and acidity on imprinting
Authors: Huang Xiaodong , Kong Liang , Li Xin , Zheng Chaojun , Zou Hanfa
Published: January 2004

Three nitrophenol isomer‐imprinted polymers were prepared under the same conditions using 4‐vinylpyridine as a functional monomer. Different recognition capacities for template molecules were observed for the three polymers. Another imprinting system with stronger acidity than nitrophenol isomers, 2‐hydroxybenzoic acid (salicylic acid) and 4‐hydroxybenzoic acid, was imprinted using 4‐vinylpyridine or acrylamide as functional monomer respectively. Both 4‐hydroxybenzoic acid‐imprinted polymers using the two monomers showed recognition ability for the template molecule. However, when acrylamide was chosen as functional monomer, the salicylic acid‐imprinted polymer showed very weak recognition for the template molecule, whereas strong recognition ability of the resultant polymer for salicylic acid was observed with 4‐vinylpyridine as functional monomer. It seems that the structure and acidity of template molecules is responsible for the difference in recognition, by influencing the formation and strength of interaction between template molecule and functional monomer during the imprinting process. An understanding of the mechanism of molecular imprinting and molecular recognition of MIPs will help to predict the selectivity of MIPs on the basis of template molecule properties. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A survey of the year 2002 literature on applications of isothermal titration calorimetry
Authors: Cliff Matthew J. , Ladbury John E.
Published: January 2004

Isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) is becoming widely accepted as a key instrument in any laboratory in which quantification of biomolecular interactions is a requisite. The method has matured with respect to general acceptance and application development over recent years. The number of publications on ITC has grown exponentially over the last 10 years, reflecting the general utility of the method. Here all the published works of the year 2002 in this area have been surveyed. We review the broad range of systems to which ITC is being directed and classify these into general areas highlighting key publications of interest. This provides an overview of what can be achieved using this method and what developments are likely to occur in the near future. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A survey of the year 2002 commercial optical biosensor literature
Authors: Rich Rebecca L. , Myszka David G.
Published: January 2004

We have compiled 819 articles published in the year 2002 that involved commercial optical biosensor technology. The literature demonstrates that the technology's application continues to increase as biosensors are contributing to diverse scientific fields and are used to examine interactions ranging in size from small molecules to whole cells. Also, the variety of available commercial biosensor platforms is increasing and the expertise of users is improving. In this review, we use the literature to focus on the basic types of biosensor experiments, including kinetics, equilibrium analysis, solution competition, active concentration determination and screening. In addition, using examples of particularly well‐performed analyses, we illustrate the high information content available in the primary response data and emphasize the impact of including figures in publications to support the results of biosensor analyses. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Biosynthesis of tannase and gallic acid from tannin rich substrates by Rhizopus oryzae and Aspergillus foetidus
Authors: Mukherjee Gargi , Banerjee Rintu
Published: February 2004

Modified solid‐state fermentation (MSSF) of tannin‐rich substrates for production of tannase and gallic acid was carried out using two fungal cultures, Rhizopus oryzae (RO IIT RB‐13, NRRL 21498) and Aspergillus foetidus (GMRB013 MTCC 3557). The tannin rich substrates included powdered fruits of Terminalia chebula and Caesalpinia digyna pod cover powder. The different environmental parameters for the maximum production of tannase and gallic acid were optimized through media engineering. The highest yield of tannase and gallic acid was obtained after 60 h in case of Rhizopus oryzae and after 72 h by Aspergillus foetidus with 3 ml of induced inoculum. The optimum initial pH of the fermentation was found to be 4.5 in case of Rhizopus oryzae and 5.0 for Aspergillus foetidus. MSSF was carried out at the optimum conditions of 30 °C and 80% relative humidity. Collectively, the data reveal the potential of the modified solid‐state fermentation process for the production of tannase and gallic acid from tannin‐rich substrates with R. oryzae and A. foetidus.
Influence of retrogression and reaging on microstructure, mechanical properties and susceptibility to stress corrosion cracking of an Al‐Zn‐Mg alloy
Authors: Zieliński A. , Chrzanowski J. , Warmuzek M. , Gazda A. , Jezierska E
Published: February 2004

The aim of the present work was to determine the influence of the retrogression and reaging (RRA) heat treatment on the correlation between microstructure, mechanical properties and susceptibility to stress corrosion cracking (SCC) of the AlZn5Mg1 alloy in dry air and sea water. The alloy received in the T6 temper was subjected to 9 different heat treatments, including retrogression at temperature 453–513 K for 600–3600 s, and reaging at temperature 363 K or 403 K for 16 h, 24 h or 48 h. The susceptibility to SCC was investigated by slow strain rate tensile tests at 10−6 s−1 strain rate; change in time to failure, fracture energy and reduction in area were taken into account. Generally, the heat treatment improving mechanical properties increased susceptibility to SCC. The observed effects were discussed in terms of change in microstructure, especially size and distribution of phase precipitates. The role of change in dislocation network was the most likely of no importance.
Weak forms of elimination of imaginaries
Authors: Casanovas Enrique , Farré Rafel
Published: February 2004

We study the degree of elimination of imaginaries needed for the three main applications: to have canonical bases for types over models, to define strong types as types over algebraically closed sets and to have a Galois correspondence between definably closed sets B such that A ⊆ B ⊆ acl(A) and closed subgroups of the Galois group Aut(acl(A)/A). We also characterize when the topology of the Galois group is the quotient topology. (© 2004 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Static and free vibration analyses of rectangular plates by the new version of the differential quadrature element method
Authors: Wang Yongliang , Wang Xinwei , Zhou Yong
Published: February 2004

A new version of the differential quadrature method is presented in this paper to overcome the difficulty existing in the ordinary differential quadrature method for applying multi‐boundary conditions in two‐dimensional problems. Since the weighting coefficients of the first derivative are the same as for the ordinary differential quadrature method even with the introduction of multi‐degree‐of‐freedom at the boundary points, the method is easier to extend to two‐ or three‐dimensional problems. A new version of the differential quadrature plate element has been established for demonstration. The essential difference from the existing old version of the differential quadrature plate element is the way the weighting coefficients are determined. The methodology is worked out in detail and some numerical examples are given to show the efficiency of the present method. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Radical copolymerization of 2‐trifluoromethylacrylic monomers. II. Kinetics, monomer reactivities, and penultimate effect in their copolymerization with norbornenes and vinyl ethers
Authors: Ito Hiroshi , Okazaki Masaki , Miller Dolores C.
Published: February 2004

Radical copolymerizations of electron‐deficient 2‐trifluoromethylacrylic (TFMA) monomers, such as 2‐trifluoromethylacrylic acid and t‐butyl 2‐trifluoromethylacrylate (TBTFMA), with electron‐rich norbornene derivatives and vinyl ethers with 2,2′‐azobisisobutyronitrile as the initiator were investigated in detail through the analysis of the kinetics in situ with 1H NMR and through the determination of the monomer reactivity ratios. The norbornene derivatives used in this study included bicyclo[2.2.1]hept‐2‐ene (norbornene) and 5‐(2‐trifluoromethyl‐1,1,1‐trifluoro‐2‐hydroxylpropyl)‐2‐norbornene. The vinyl ether monomers were ethyl vinyl ether, t‐butyl vinyl ether, and 3,4‐dihydro‐2‐H‐pyran. Vinylene carbonate was found to copolymerize with TBTFMA. Although none of the monomers underwent radical homopolymerization under normal conditions, they copolymerized readily, producing a copolymer containing 60–70 mol % TFMA. The copolymerization of the TFMA monomer with norbornenes and vinyl ethers deviated from the terminal model and could be described by the penultimate model. The copolymers of TFMA reported in this article were evaluated as chemical amplification resist polymers for the emerging field of 157‐nm lithography. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part A: Polym Chem 42: 1478–1505, 2004
Preparation of fully cross‐linked CNBR/PP‐g‐GMA and CNBR/PP/PP‐g‐GMA thermoplastic elastomers and their morphology, structure and properties
Authors: Xu Xiaodong , Qiao Jinliang , Yin Jinghua , Gao Ying , Zhang Xiaohong , Ding Yongtao , Liu Yiqun , Xin Zhirong , Gao Jianming , Huang Fan , Song Zhihai
Published: February 2004

Binary CNBR/PP‐g‐GMA and ternary CNBR/PP/PP‐g‐GMA thermoplastic elastomers were prepared by reactive blending carboxy nitrile rubber (CNBR) powder with nanometer dimension and polypropylene functionalized with glycidyl methacrylate (PP‐g‐GMA). Morphology observation by using an atomic force microscope (AFM) and TEM revealed that the size of CNBR dispersed phase in CNBR/PP‐g‐GMA binary blends was much smaller than that of the corresponding CNBR/PP binary blends. Thermal behavior of CNBR/PP‐g‐GMA and CNBR/PP blends was studied by DSC. Comparing with the plain PP‐g‐GMA, Tc of PP‐g‐GMA in CNBR/PP‐g‐GMA blends increased about 10 °C. Both thermodynamic and kinetic effects would influence the crystallization behavior of PP‐g‐GMA in CNBR/PP‐g‐GMA blends. At a fixed content of CNBR, the apparent viscosity of the blending system increased with increasing the content of PP‐g‐GMA. FTIR spectrum verified that the improvement of miscibility of CNBR and PP‐g‐GMA was originated from the reaction between carboxy end groups of CNBR and epoxy groups of GMA grafted onto PP molecular chains. Comparing with CNBR/PP blends, the tensile strength, stress at 100% strain, and elongation at break of CNBR/PP‐g‐GMA blends were greatly improved. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 42: 1042–1052, 2004
Miscible blends containing a liquid crystalline polymer via optimized hydrogen bonding: Correlation to theory
Authors: Viswanathan Sriram , Dadmun M. D.
Published: February 2004

Blending a liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) with an amorphous polymer to create a molecular composite offers a method to use the desirable properties of an LCP at a more modest cost. However, very few such blends are miscible. Our earlier findings (Viswanathan, S.; Dadmun, M. D. Macromol Rapid Commun 2001, 22, 779–782; Macromolecules 2001, 35, 5049–5060; Macromolecules 2003, 36, 3196–3205) demonstrate that it is possible to create a true molecular composite by inducing miscibility in a blend containing an LCP and an amorphous polymer by slightly modifying the structure of the polymer constituents to promote hydrogen bonding between the two polymers. This result is interpreted to indicate that separation of the hydroxyl groups along the amorphous polymer chain enhances the accessibility of the OH to intermolecularly hydrogen bond to CO groups and increases the miscibility of the blends. In this report, the phase diagrams for these blends are correlated to the theoretical phase diagrams that are determined using Coleman and Painter's association model, indicating excellent agreement between theory and experiment. This correlation also provides quantification of the functional group accessibility (via K) as a function of copolymer composition, which agrees very well with the previous phase behavior results and interpretation. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 42: 1010–1022, 2004
Thermodynamics of adsorption of uranyl ions onto amidoximated poly(acrylonitrile)/poly(N‐vinyl 2‐pyrrolidone) interpenetrating polymer networks
Authors: Pekel Nursel , Şahiner Nurettin , Güven Olgun
Published: February 2004

The interaction of uranyl ions (UO) with interpenetrating polymer networks (IPNs) based on amidoximated poly(acrylonitrile)/poly(N‐vinyl 2‐pyrrolidone) was examined. The adsorption capacity of IPN hydrogels as well as the adsorption kinetics and the effect of temperature on UO ion adsorption were investigated. Thermodynamic quantities and kinetic parameters were calculated with adsorption isotherm data. The initial adsorption‐rate values for each temperature were calculated, and the corresponding rate constants decreased with increasing temperature. The adsorption enthalpy, entropy, and free energy of the UO ion with amidoximated IPN hydrogels were calculated from basic thermodynamic relations. It was assessed that adsorption occurred by strong electrostatic interactions with an adsorption enthalpy of −31.5 kJ/mol. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 42: 986–993, 2004
Preparation of block copolymer vesicles in solution
Authors: Lim Soo Patrick , Eisenberg Adi
Published: February 2004

Block copolymer vesicles can be prepared in solution from a variety of different amphiphilic systems. Polystyrene‐block‐poly(acrylic acid), polystyrene‐block‐poly(ethylene oxide), and many other block copolymer systems can produce vesicles of a wide range of sizes; those in the range of 100–1000 nm have been explored extensively. Different factors, such as the absolute and relative block lengths, the presence of additives (ions, homopolymers, and surfactants), the water content in the solvent mixture, the nature and composition of the solvent, the temperature, and the polydispersity of the hydrophilic block, provide control over the types of vesicles produced. Their high stability, resistance to many external stimuli, and ability to package both hydrophilic and hydrophobic compounds make them excellent candidates for use in the medical, pharmaceutical, and environmental fields. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 42: 923–938, 2004
Desorption behavior of a surfactant in a linear low‐density polyethylene blend at elevated temperatures
Authors: Lee Kangseok , Shim Sang Eun , Lee Byung H. , Hong Seong Uk , Choe Soonja
Published: February 2004

The desorption behavior of a surfactant in a linear low‐density polyethylene (LLDPE) blend at elevated temperatures of 50, 70, and 80 °C was studied with Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The composition of the LLDPE blend was 70:30 LLDPE/low‐density polyethylene. Three different specimens (II, III, and IV) were prepared with various compositions of a small molecular penetrant, sorbitan palmitate (SPAN‐40), and a migration controller, poly(ethylene acrylic acid) (EAA), in the LLDPE blend. The calculated diffusion coefficient (D) of SPAN‐40 in specimens II, III, and IV, between 50 and 80 °C, varied from 1.74 × 10−11 to 6.79 × 10−11 cm2/s, from 1.10 × 10−11 to 5.75 × 10−11 cm2/s, and from 0.58 × 10−11 to 4.75 × 10−11 cm2/s, respectively. In addition, the calculated activation energies (ED) of specimens II, III, and IV, from the plotting of ln D versus 1/T between 50 and 80 °C, were 42.9, 52.7, and 65.6 kJ/mol, respectively. These values were different from those obtained between 25 and 50 °C and were believed to have been influenced by the interference of Tinuvin (a UV stabilizer) at elevated temperatures higher than 50 °C. Although the desorption rate of SPAN‐40 increased with the temperature and decreased with the EAA content, the observed spectral behavior did not depend on the temperature and time. For all specimens stored over 50 °C, the peak at 1739 cm−1 decreased in a few days and subsequently increased with a peak shift toward 1730 cm−1. This arose from the carbonyl stretching vibration of Tinuvin, possibly because of oxidation or degradation at elevated temperatures. In addition, the incorporation of EAA into the LLDPE blend suppressed the desorption rate of SPAN‐40 and retarded the appearance of the 1730 cm−1 peak. © 2004 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Polym Sci Part B: Polym Phys 42: 1114–1126, 2004
Simple universal permeation apparatus
Authors: Al‐Ati Tareq , Garza Jorge , Hotchkiss Joseph H.
Published: February 2004

A number of methods and commercial apparatuses for measuring the permeability of polymeric films and sheet materials have been successfully developed. Generally, the equipment is complex, expensive and specific to certain permeants, but all operate on similar basic principles. Because of our interest in a wide range of permeants, including fixed gases and organic vapours, we have built an inexpensive apparatus that can measure permeation to gas, moisture and organic vapours. We also require outputs that can provide not only permeability data but also proved solubility and diffusion coefficients. The apparatus is built around a commercially available thermal conductivity detector. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Photochemical reaction mechanism of cyclobutanone: CASSCF study
Authors: Chen Yishan , Ye Song
Published: January 2004

The photochemical reaction channels of cyclobutanone have been studied at the CASSCF level with a 6‐31G* basis set. Starting from the n‐π* excited‐state (S1) cyclobutanone, the three reactions can take place: decarbonylation (produce CO and cyclopropane or propylene), cycloelimination (produce ketene and ethylene), and ring expansion (produce oxacarbene). Our computation indicates that decarbonylation products CO and triplet trimethylene are formed on the triplet n‐π* excited state (T1) in a stepwise way via a biradical intermediate after intersystem crossing (ISC) to T1 from S1. And, then, the triplet trimethylene undergoes a second ISC to the ground state (S0) to produce the singlet trimethylene from which cyclopropane can be produced rapidly only overcoming a 1 to 2‐kcal/mol barrier while propylene can be formed as a secondary product. The cycloelimination products ketene and ethylene are formed on the S0 in a concerted mechanism after internal conversion (IC) to S0 from S1 via a biradical conical intersection. The reaction channels corresponding to ring expansion on the S0, T1, and S1 states have also been discussed, and the likeliest reaction path is that oxacarbene is formed on the ground state following S1/S0 internal conversion. The surface topology of cyclobutanone on the S1 surface is characterized by a transition state separating the minimum from the S1/S0 conical intersection, which is consistent with the previous computations and can explain the wavelength dependence of the fluorescence emission yield. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2004
Formation of interstellar vinyl alcohol via simple radical processes: Theoretical study
Authors: Basiuk Vladimir A. , Kobayashi Kensei
Published: January 2004

Density functional theory calculations at the B3LYP/6‐31++G(d,p) level of theory were employed to verify whether the formation of vinyl alcohol (VA) in the interstellar medium can be explained by reactions of common and abundant interstellar species such as acetylene, radicals C2, HC C · , · OH, and H · . Several reaction sequences are possible. They include radical combinations, which proceed without activation barriers and are highly exothermic. The reactions of closed‐shell species acetylene and HCC‐OH with hydrogen atoms, as well as H‐transfer and OH‐rotation processes, might require activation energy. Nevertheless, either the corresponding transition states lay below the reactant level or there are alternative routes that involve no transition states at all, such as the reaction sequences C2 → HCC · → HCCH → trans‐syn‐HC( · )CH‐OH → syn‐VA; C2 → HCC · → syn‐≔CCH‐OH → (trans or cis)‐syn‐HC( · )CH‐OH → syn‐VA; and C2 → · CC‐OH → syn‐:CCH‐OH → (trans or cis)‐syn‐HC( · )CH‐OH → syn‐VA. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2004
Semiempirical calculations of binding enthalpy for protein–ligand complexes
Authors: Nikitina E. , Sulimov V. , Zayets V. , Zaitseva N.
Published: January 2004

A systematic semiempirical quantum mechanical study of the interactions between proteins and ligands has been performed to determine the ability of this approach for the accurate estimation of the enthalpic contribution to the binding free energy of the protein–ligand systems. This approach has been applied for eight test protein–ligand complexes with experimentally known binding enthalpies. The calculations were performed using the semiempirical PM3 approach incorporated in the MOPAC 97, ZAVA originally elaborated in Algodign, and MOPAC 2002 with MOZYME facility packages. Special attention was paid to take into account structural water molecules, which were located in the protein–ligand binding site. It was shown that the results of binding enthalpy calculations fit experimental data within ∼2 kcal/mol in the presented approach. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2004
“Plasma Polymers and Related Materials – COST Aktion 527”
Authors: Oehr Christian , Fellenberg Ralf
Published: February 2004

Zur Stärkung der Zusammenarbeit zwischen Europäischen Forschungseinrichtungen und zur Gestaltung eines Europäischen Forschungsraums gibt es zahlreiche Aktivitäten. Eine davon sind sogenannte COST‐Aktionen. In diesem Beitrag wird die COST‐Aktion 527, die von der EU durchgeführt wird, vorgestellt. Zentrales Thema dieser Aktion ist die Verwendung von Plasmatechniken zur Abscheidung dünner polymerer Schichten auf verschiedenen Materialien.
Kompakte trockenlaufende Vakuumpumpen. Compact Dry Vacuum Pumps
Authors: Dirschel Jürgen , Lachenmann Rudolf
Published: February 2004

Membranvakuumpumpen finden immer weitere Verbreitung beispielsweise als Vorpumpen für Weitbereichs‐Turbopumpen, Gasanalysatoren und andere Laboranwendungen. Große Fortschritte bei der Membrantechnologie durch den Einsatz numerisch optimierter Flachmembrane sowie durch elektronisch gesteuerte Antriebssysteme machen Membranvakuumpumpen noch kompakter, leistungsfähiger und zuverlässiger. Wartungsintervalle von über 40.000 Betriebsstunden – ähnlich denen von Turbopumpen – erscheinen bei drehzahlgeregelten Systemen mittlerweile realisierbar.
Adolescents’ outcome expectancies about relational aggression within acquaintanceships, friendships, and dating relationships
Authors: Goldstein Sara E. , Tisak Marie S.
Published: January 2004

Adolescents’ (N=292) relational aggression and outcome expectancies for relational aggression in three different relationship contexts (acquaintanceship, friendship, and dating) were assessed. With respect to each type of relationship, adolescents were questioned about the emotional and dyadic consequences of relational aggression, and about whether the victim of relational aggression would retaliate. It was also of interest to assess whether adolescents’ personal involvement in relational aggression was associated with these judgments. The results suggest that adolescents’ involvement in relational aggression and outcome expectancies for relational aggression often varies by gender, age, relationship context, and type of relational aggression. Additionally, in several instances, adolescents’ personal involvement in relational aggression was associated with outcome expectancies for relational aggression. For example, after gender and age had been accounted for, participants’ own relational aggression predicted beliefs about whether the victim of relational aggression would want to continue a friendship and a dating relationship. Implications of the results and future directions for research are discussed.
Periodicity of atmospheric phenomena occurring in the extreme South of Brazil
Authors: Campello Fernando D. , Saraiva Jaci M.B. , Krusche Nisia
Published: February 2004

Spectral analysis revealed oscillations associated to atmospheric phenomena in the extreme south of Brazil. Cycles from 36 to 77 days, linked to Madden–Julian Oscillation, from 18 to 28 days, related to the bipolar South Atlantic Convergence Zone‐Subtropics mode and 10‐day oscillations due to the passage of frontal systems were detected. Copyright © 2004 Royal Meteorological Society. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
NAADP‐induced Ca2+ Release — A new signalling pathway
Authors: Patel Sandip
Published: January 2004

Abstract Changes in cystosolic Ca2+ concentration are critical for the regulation of numerous cellular events. Mobilisation of intracellular Ca2+ stores by Ca2+ mobilising messengers is a highly conserved mechanism whereby different agonists mediate their cellular effects. NAADP is the newest of these messengers to be described. Accumulating evidence suggests that NAADP targets a novel intracellular Ca2+ release channel that under certain conditions can inactivate prior to opening. These channels are likely located on Ca2+ stores distinct from the endoplasmic reticulum, the activation of which evokes complex changes in Ca2+ involving cross‐talk with other intracellular Ca2+ channels. Recent demonstrations of changes in cellular NAADP levels by physiologically relevant stimuli establish the importance of this molecule in the control of calcium dynamics.
The use of Acufex Wedge Tag Tissue Anchors in Hand Surgery
Authors: KHANDWALA A. R. , KHAN I. U. , ELLIOT D.
Published: January 2004

Over a period of 4 years, in various circumstances commonly seen in hand surgery, 100 patients underwent 127 soft tissue attachments to bone using the Acufex wedge tag system (Acufex Microsurgical, Inc, Mansfield, MA), a non-metallic bone anchor. No failures to maintain the attachment of the desired soft tissue to bone were identified. While less robust than the Mitek anchor, the other commonly available system of bone anchoring, and therefore possibly inappropriate for general orthopaedics, the Acufex wedge tag proved adequate for the smaller forces of hand surgery.
Palmar Dislocation of the Metacarpophalangeal Joint of the Finger
Authors: MURASE TSUYOSHI , MORITOMO HISAO , YOSHIKAWA HIDEKI
Published: January 2004

We report a case of palmar dislocation of a finger metacarpophalangeal joint. Disruption of all the supporting structures of this joint and rupture of the flexor tendon sheath caused marked instability. Treatment was by open reduction and repair of the collateral ligaments.
Expression of the CD44 variant isoform 5 in the human osteoarthritic knee joint: Correlation with radiological, histomorphological, and biochemical parameters
Authors: Fuchs Susanne , Dankbar Berno , Wildenau Gunnar , Goetz Werner , Lohmann Christoph H. , Tibesku Carsten O.
Published: January 2004

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to correlate expression of CD44v5 in osteoarthritic synovium, cartilage, and synovial fluid with radiographical, histomorphological, and biochemical data.

Methods: Cartilage and synovia specimens of 27 patients with osteoarthritis were histomorphologically assessed according to Mankin and Pelletier, respectively. Extended weight‐bearing antero‐posterior radiographs were evaluated according to Kellgren and Ahlback. Expression of membrane‐bound CD44v5 was analyzed by immunohistochemistry and levels of soluble CD44v5 were determined by ELISA.

Results: Expression of CD44v5 in cartilage and synovia was detected in 67% and 59% of the patients, respectively. Immunohistochemical findings in cartilage correlated significantly with structural cartilage changes (p < 0.001), whereas no correlation was found between expression in synovia and inflammatory synovial changes. Additionally, no relationship was evident between CD44v5 expression and radiographical data, but expression in cartilage and synovium was significantly correlated with each other (p < 0.04). Surprisingly, expression of CD44v5 in both cartilage and synovia was negatively correlated with synovial fluid levels of TNFα (p < 0.03 and p < 0.02, respectively), and no association was evident with levels of IL‐1β.

Conclusions: The data demonstrate expression of CD44v5 in osteoarthritic cartilage and synovia, probably independent of joint inflammation. But more importantly, expression of this receptor variant in cartilage seems to be strongly related to the degree of cartilage destruction. © 2003 Published by Elsevier Ltd. on behalf of Orthopaedic Research Society. © 2003 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
The influence of cyclic compression and distraction on the healing of experimental tibial fractures
Authors: Hente R. , Füchtmeier B. , Schlegel U. , Ernstberger A. , Perren S. M.
Published: January 2004

Interfragmentary displacement has a main effect on callus formation in fracture healing. To test whether compressive or distractive displacements have a more pronounced effect on new bone formation, a sheep osteotomy model was created whereby the gap tissue was subjected to constant bending displacement. A diaphyseal osteotomy with a gap of 2 mm was created in 18 sheep tibiae and stabilized with a special unilateral actuator‐driven external fixator. Two experimental groups with six sheep each received either 10 or 1000 cycles evenly distributed over 24 h. The third group of six sheep served as a control group without actively induced displacement. The amount and direction of cyclic displacement was kept constant throughout the observation period, resulting in 50% compressive and 50% distractive displacement within the osteotomy gap. At sacrifice, six weeks after surgery, bending stiffness was measured and new bone formation was assessed radiologically and microradiographically. In all cycled groups, the amount of periosteal callus formation was up to 25 times greater on the compression compared to the distraction side (p < 0.001). The application of the higher number of daily cycles resulted in an up to 10‐fold greater amount of periosteal new bone formation on the compression side (p < 0.012), while the difference on the distraction side was not significant. Ten cycles applied a day were sufficient to create an abundant periosteal callus on the compression side. In the 1000 cycle group, bending stiffness revealed slightly lower values but the difference was not significant. Solid periosteal bridging of the gap was observed in two sheep in the control group, whereas bridging in the cycled groups was observed exclusively at the medullary side. In conclusion, cyclic compressive displacements were found to be superior over distractive displacements. A higher number of enforced and maintained compressive displacements enhanced periosteal callus formation but did not allow bony bridging of the gap. © 2003 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
The Sovereign and its Shadow: Constituent Assembly and Indigenous Movement in Ecuador
Authors: ANDOLINA ROBERT
Published: January 2004

A crucial development in current Latin American politics is the growing involvement of indigenous movements in democracies grappling with the challenges of regime consolidation. This article examines how Ecuador's indigenous movement consecrated new rights and national constitutive principles in the 1997–8 constitutional assembly. It argues that the indigenous movement defined the legitimacy and purpose of the assembly through an ideological struggle with other political actors, in turn shaping the context and content of constitutional reforms in Ecuador. The article concludes that softening the boundary between ‘cultural politics’ and ‘institutional politics’ is necessary in order to understand the impact of social movements in Latin America.
Supreme Court Decisions on Electoral Rules after Mexico's 1994 Judicial Reform: An Empowered Court
Authors: FINKEL JODI
Published: January 2004

In 1994 Mexico's ruling party granted new powers of judicial review and increased independence to the Mexican Supreme Court. Would these reforms enable the Court to overcome decades of judicial subordination? I examine all Mexican Supreme Court decisions addressing the constitutionality of electoral rules – rules that are inherently contentious because they determine the chances for obtaining power – during Zedillo's sexenio. These cases, culminating with a 1998 ruling counter to a key PRI political interest, demonstrate a fundamental change in Mexico's institutional power balance. This study also demonstrates the utility of electoral cases to evaluate Court power within and across countries.
Electoral Justice in Mexico: The Role of the Electoral Tribunal under New Federalism
Authors: BERRUECOS SUSANA
Published: January 2004

‘Demanding adherence to principles is, either, to accept the federal system with all its advantages and dangers, or to denounce it frankly and proclaim the empire of central government, granting it the power to correct the abuses that local authorities might commit.’Ignacio Vallarta

The annulment of the 2000 gubernatorial elections in Tabasco marked a fundamental precedent for electoral justice in Mexico and the role of the Electoral Tribunal of the Federal Judiciary (Tribunal Electoral del Poder Judicial de la Federación – TEPJF) in federal, state and local elections. Successive constitutional reforms that ended with the ‘definitive’ electoral reforms of 1996 have consolidated a regime of electoral dispute adjudication at the federal level, giving political parties the right to appeal state cases before federal authorities. Whereas a clear tendency exists towards greater decentralisation of power under ‘new federalism’, in the electoral field centralism concentrated on the TEPJF and the Supreme Court of Justice has been adopted. However, in the context of political pluralism and a more authentic federalism, the TEPJF's new role has caused conflicting reactions. Some sectors are insisting on the need to limit this institution's powers so that in the future it can only rule over subnational elections based on well-defined criteria that respect specific jurisdictional principles.
Democratisation, War and State-Building: Constructing the Rule of Law in El Salvador
Authors: CALL CHARLES T.
Published: January 2004

After long neglecting issues of citizen security and justice, democratisation theorists have recently begun to recognise the importance of the rule of law. Yet theorising the construction of state institutions of security and justice has tended to be piecemeal and divorced from broader theoretical debates. Using the case of post-war El Salvador, this article first argues that justice and security are tremendously important for the survivability and everyday relevance of democracy, given that crime is the chief threat to support for democracy.

Second, the article explores competing views of institutional reform. It finds support for path-dependent ‘mode-of-transition’ approaches that postulate heightened agency to adopt new rules and reform institutions during uncertain transition periods. However, more sceptical cultural and institutional theorists are right insofar as the formal removal of authoritarian structures and personnel is easier than the informal transformation of state practices and of society's attitudes about state services. The article also finds that security (i.e., military, intelligence and police) reforms operate differently to judicial reforms, which were more difficult and were less tied to the country's peace process. The interaction of these reform processes with a post-war crime wave helps explain why international observers consider El Salvador's reforms a success story, but many Salvadoreans do not.
Gender differences in response to differing antidepressant drug classes: two negative studies
Authors: PARKER G. , PARKER K. , AUSTIN M.-P. , MITCHELL P. , BROTCHIE H.
Published: January 2004

Background. A recent US study presented data suggesting that depressed women are more likely to respond to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) than tricyclic (TCA) antidepressant drug therapies. We have undertaken replication studies in two independent databases.

Method. We have examined for gender differences in SSRI and TCA antidepressant response in both retrospective and prospective naturalistic uncontrolled studies, and in subsets of melancholic and non-melancholic depressed subjects. As the US study had indicated that women under the age of 40 years were particularly likely to show a differential response to SSRIs, we examined for age, gender and interactional effects. In addition, we examined for differential SSRI and TCA responsiveness in a subset of patients who had received drugs from both classes.

Results. We failed to find evidence of women having a preferential response to SSRI medication or, conversely, of men having a superior response to TCA medication. Older age, however, was associated with a superior TCA response and younger age with a superior SSRI response.

Conclusion. As few studies have examined for differential gender and age effects in response to narrow action and broad action antidepressant drugs across major depressive subtypes, gender differential effects remain to be established.