bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using Wavelet Analysis to Assess Turbulence/Rotor Interactions
Authors: Kelley Neil D. , Osgood Richard M. , Bialasiewicz Jan T. , Jakubowski Andrzej
Published: August 2002

Large loading events on wind turbine rotor blades are often associated with transient bursts of coherent turbulent energy in the turbine inflow. These coherent turbulent structures are identified as peaks in the three‐dimensional, instantaneous, turbulent shearing stress field. Such organized inflow structures and the accompanying rotor aeroelastic responses typically have timescales of only a few seconds and therefore do not lend themselves to analysis by conventional Fourier spectral techniques. Wavelet analysis offers the ability to study more closely the spectral decomposition of short‐period events such as the interaction of coherent turbulence with a moving rotor blade. In this paper we discuss our initial progress in the application of wavelet analysis techniques to the decomposition and interpretation of turbulence/rotor interaction. We discuss the results of using both continuous and discrete wavelet transforms for our application. Several examples are given of the techniques applied to both observed turbulence and turbine responses and those generated using numerical simulations. We found that the presence of coherent turbulent structures, as revealed by the inflow Reynolds stress field, is a major contributor to large load excursions. These bursts of coherent turbulent energy induce a broadband aeroelastic response in the turbine rotor as it passes through them. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Efficiency calibration of energy‐dispersive detectors for application in quantitative x‐ and γ‐ray spectrometry
Authors: Szalóki I. , Szegedi S. , Varga K. , Braun M. , Osán J. , Van Grieken R.
Published: August 2002

A semi‐empirical method was used in a full‐peak efficiency calculation procedure; it was based on the measurements of characteristic x‐ray lines of pure elemental and compound samples and on the application of the fundamental parameter method (FPM) for the theoretical calculation of the characteristic x‐ray intensities. Radioactive standards were applied for the efficiency calibration of different semiconductor detectors [Si(Li), Si‐PIN and HpGe]. The efficiency curves were fitted to the characteristic intensities measured by a conventional Si(Li) and two Si‐PIN detectors, using 125I and 55Fe radioactive sources for x‐ray excitation in a ring‐shaped geometrical arrangement. Several quantitative applications in x‐ and γ‐ray spectrometry were carried out with these calibrated detectors: (i) x‐ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis of sediment samples [Si(Li)], (ii) determination of specific activity of 137Cs nuclide in sediment core samples originated from an oxbow area of the river Tisza, using γ‐spectroscopy (HpGe) with low‐background conditions, (iii) study of electrosorption phenomena at solid– liquid interfaces by making use of an in situ radiotracer method based on the application of low‐energy x‐ray emitting radionuclides (e.g. 65Zn), (iv) quantitative XRF analysis of ceramic glaze and (v) electron microprobe analysis of aerosol particles using an instrument equipped with a thin‐window Si(Li) detector. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mutants defective in secretory/vacuolar pathways in the EUROFAN collection of yeast disruptants
Authors: Avaro Sandrine , Belgareh‐Touzé Naïma , Sibella‐Argüelles Carla , Volland Christiane , Haguenauer‐Tsapis Rosine
Published: August 2002

We have screened the EUROFAN (European Functional Analysis Network) deletion strain collection for yeast mutants defective in secretory/vacuolar pathways and/or associated biochemical modifications. We used systematic Western immunoblotting to analyse the electrophoretic pattern of several markers of the secretory/vacuolar pathways, the soluble α‐factor, the periplasmic glycoprotein invertase, the plasma membrane GPI‐anchored protein Gas1p, and two vacuolar proteins, the soluble carboxypeptidase Y and the membrane‐bound alkaline phosphatase, which are targeted to the vacuole by different pathways. We also used colony immunoblotting to monitor the secretion of carboxypeptidase Y into the medium, to identify disruptants impaired in vacuolar targeting. We identified 25 mutants among the 631 deletion strains. Nine of these mutants were disrupted in genes identified in recent years on the basis of their involvement in trafficking (VPS53, VAC7, VAM6, APM3, SYS1), or glycosylation (ALG12, ALG9, OST4, ROT2). Three of these genes were identified on the basis of trafficking defects by ourselves and others within the EUROFAN project (TLG2, RCY1, MON2). The deletion of ERV29, which encodes a COPII vesicle protein, impaired carboxypeptidase Y trafficking from the endoplasmic reticulum to the Golgi apparatus. We also identified eight unknown ORFs, the deletion of which reduced Golgi glycosylation or impaired the Golgi to vacuole trafficking of carboxypeptidase Y. YJR044c, which we identified as a new VPS gene, encodes a protein with numerous homologues of unknown function in sequence databases. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Program Refinement Tool
Authors: Carrington D. , Hayes I. , Nickson R. , Watson G. , Welsh J.
Published: August 2002

The refinement calculus for the development of programs from specifications is well suited to mechanised support. We review the requirements for tool support of refinement as gleaned from our experience with existing refinement tools, and report on the design and implementation of a new tool to support refinement based on these requirements.

The main features of the new tool are close integration of refinement and proof in a single tool (the same mechanism is used for both), good management of the refinement context, an extensible theory base that allows the tool to be adapted to new application domains, and a flexible user interface.
Heterogeneous Notations for Pure Formal Method Integration
Authors: Paige Richard F.
Published: August 2002

We outline an extendible approach for combining formal methods – such as Z, Morgan's refinement calculus, and predicative programming – based on composing specifications written in similar formal languages. We discuss how algorithm refinement can be extended to such a setting, and outline some examples of using integrated formal methods. We also provide justifications for why using combinations of similar methods might be helpful.
The Standard Logic of Z is Inconsistent
Authors: Henson Martin C.
Published: August 2002

We demonstrate that the logic contained in the draft Z standard is inconsistent.
Investigating the Integration of two Formal Methods
Authors: Bicarregui Juan , Matthews Brian , Ritchie Brian , Agerholm Sten
Published: August 2002

VDM and B are two mature formal methods currently in use by industry and supported by commercial tools. Though the methods are foundationally similar, the coverage of their supporting tools differ significantly. The SPECTRUM project has investigated the feasibility of integrating support for the two methodologies. In this paper, we describe the project and report on some technical results.
Expression of Telomerase‐associated Genes: Reflection of Telomerase Activity in Gastric Cancer?
Authors: Kameshima Hidekazu , Yagihashi Atsuhito , Yajima Tomomi , Kobayashi Daisuke , Hirata Koichi , Watanabe Naoki
Published: August 2002

Telomerase activation is a characteristic of immortalized tumor cells but not of normal cells. Telomerase activity has been detected in approximately 85% of malignant tumors, and assaying for telomerase activity is thought to be useful for diagnosing cancer. Three telomerase‐associated molecules [human telomerase RNA component (hTR), telomerase‐associated protein (TEP1), and human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT)] have been cloned. We semiquantitatively measured telomerase activity and the expression of these genes in cancerous and noncancerous regions of gastric cancer patients. We also investigated whether the expression of these genes correlated with telomerase activity. Telomerase activity in cancerous regions was significantly higher than in noncancerous regions, but there was no correlation between telomerase activity and the expression of these genes. Furthermore, no clear difference was observed between cancerous and noncancerous regions. These data indicate that the level of three telomerase‐associated genes (i.e., hTR, TEP1 mRNA, hTERT mRNA), do not reflect telomerase activity, and the RNA levels of these genes are not useful markers for diagnosing gastric cancer.
Acute Phase is the Only Significantly Reduced Component of the Injury Response after Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy
Authors: Targarona Eduardo M. , Pons María José , Balagué Carmen , Espert Juan José , Moral Antonio , Martínez Joaquín , Gaya Juan , Filella Xavier , Rivera Francisca , Ballesta Antonio , Trías Manuel
Published: August 2002

The objective demonstration of improved postoperative recovery suggests that the surgical injury response induced by the laparoscopic approach is less intense than that after open surgery. Twenty‐five patients diagnosed as having noncomplicated gallstones were studied prospectively. They were operated by laparoscopy (group I, n = 12) or open surgery (group II, n = 13). Analgesia requirements (p < 0.026) and postoperative stay (p < 0.001) were significantly less in group I. Cholecystectomy performed by either technical options induced a significant increase over basal values of glucose, lactate, white blood cell count, prolactin, ACTH, cortisol, interleukin 6, C‐reactive protein, and PCO2. Both surgical procedures induced a significant reduction of total proteins, albumin, prealbumin, free fatty acids hemoglobin, hematocrit, and pH. There were no differences between the levels of growth hormone, insulin, glucagon, or PO2 during any of the periods studied. Comparison of the results of the two cholecystectomy techniques showed that laparoscopic cholecystectomy induced a significantly less intense acute‐phase response (area under the curve) of interleukin 6 (17 ± 17 versus 47 ± 26 pg/ml × hr × 102; p < 0.003), C‐reactive protein (16 ± 12 versus 35 ± 16 mg/dl × hr × 10;p < 0.004), and prealbumin (16 ± 2.7 versus 13.8 ± 2.3 mg/dl × hr × 102; p < 0.05). The surgical injury response after laparoscopic cholecystectomy is similar to that after open cholecystectomy, but the acute‐phase response component is less intense. This finding may be a consequence of the reduced size of the operative wound with laparoscopic cholecystectomy.
Historical Evolution of Hypothermic Liver Surgery
Authors: Yamanaka Naoki , Dai Chao‐Liu , Okamoto Eizo
Published: August 2002

The clinical application of hypothermia dates back to the surgical treatment of blue babies (1949) and the early days of open heart surgery (1952), when generalized cooling was employed. The induction of hepatic hypothermia began with whole‐body cooling in experimental models in 1953 and clinically in 1961. It was designed to minimize the ischemia‐reperfusion injury associated with hepatic inflow occlusion. Body surface cooling and cooling via an extracorporeal circuit, however, were not widely accepted for hepatic surgery because of the adverse effects on the extrahepatic organs. Consequently, with the introduction of improved venovenous bypass techniques, in situ cold hepatic perfusion has been used in selected patients since 1971. In situ hypothermic hemihepatic perfusion, introduced in 1995, prevents an ischemic insult to the contralateral hepatic lobe. Topical cooling using ice slush under total or hemihepatic inflow occlusion was reported in 1993. This technique does not require cumbersome hypothermic perfusion equipment. In attempts to minimize intraoperative bleeding by vascular occlusion, the liver surgeon must consider the benefits and technical demands of hepatic hypothermia.
New Surgical Strategy for Gastroduodenal Ulcer: Laparoscopic Approach
Authors: Dubois François
Published: August 2002

Although peptic gastroduodenal ulcers are rarely treated surgically today, when surgery is required a laparoscopic approach is possible with its well known advantages. The most widely used technique is vagotomy by various modalities. Training in laparoscopy requires good instrumentation to avoid complications. Vagotomy can be truncal and bilateral via laparoscopy or thoracoscopy, which is the easiest and quickest procedure; moreover, the sequelae are less important and less frequent, as has been reported. It can also be highly selective or mixed, such as the Taylor procedure; and large series have been reported with good results. Gastric resection is rarely used for peptic ulcers, although it is feasible laparoscopically; it requires a large experience. Long‐term results of laparoscopic vagotomy are now available and have indicated the same results as are attained with open surgery.
Fertility of Mares After Unilateral Laparoscopic Tubal Ligation
Authors: Mccue Patrick M. , Hendrickson Dean A. , Hess Milan B.
Published: August 2002

Objective—To develop a technique for laparoscopic tubal (oviductal) ligation and to evaluate pregnancy rates for mares that ovulated ipsilateral or contralateral to the ligated oviduct.

Study Design—Randomized prospective clinical trial comparing pregnancy rates after unilateral laparoscopic tubal ligation.

Animals—Twelve mares of light horse breeds.

Methods—One oviduct in each of 6 mares was surgically ligated with a laparoscopic technique; 6 other mares served as nonligated controls. Mares with unilateral tubal ligations (UTL) were inseminated with 500 million progressively motile sperm during 1 cycle when the dominant follicle was ipsilateral to the ligation site and 1 cycle when the dominant follicle was contralateral to the ligation site. Control mares were bred during 2 cycles regardless of the side of the dominant follicle. Pregnancy examinations were performed on days 12, 14, and 16 after ovulation by transrectal ultrasonography.

Results—None of the mares became pregnant when ovulations occurred from the ovary adjacent to the ligated oviduct. All 6 mares became pregnant on the first cycle when an ovulation occurred from the opposite ovary. Control mares became pregnant on 10 of 12 cycles (83.3 %).

Conclusions—UTL was completely effective in preventing pregnancy when ovulation occurred ipsilateral to the ligation site. The surgical procedure did not interfere with the establishment of pregnancy when ovulation occurred from the contralateral ovary.

Clinical Relevance—UTL may be a clinically useful procedure for preparing a recipient mare for gamete intrafallopian transfer. The recipient mare could be allowed to ovulate and UTL would prevent fertilization of her oocyte but would not interfere with normal corpus luteum formation. The donor oocyte could be placed into the oviduct contralateral to the UTL site.
Transfer of Cationic Antibacterial Agents Berberine, Palmatine, and Benzalkonium Through Bimolecular Planar Phospholipid Film and Staphylococcus aureus Membrane
Authors: Severina Inna I. , Muntyan Maria S. , Lewis Kim , Skulachev Vladimir P.
Published: August 2002

Some organic cations are known to be electrophoretically imported into bacterial cells and actively extruded from these cells by multidrug resistance (MDR) pumps. We have studied penetration of plant antimicrobial agents berberine and palmatine and synthetic antiseptic benzalkonium chloride through black planar phospholipid membrane (BLM) and membrane of Staphylococcus aureus cells. Gradients of these cations across BLM generated an electric potential difference. Penetrating anion tetraphenyl borate and phloretin (a plant substance decreasing membrane dipole potential) stimulated this effect. Under optimal conditions, the magnitude of the electric potential was close to theoretical, that is, 60 mV/10‐fold cation gradient. Berberine accumulated in S. aureus cells as shown by direct measurement of berberine with a berberinesensitive electrode. The berberine accumulation was prevented by protonophore CCCP and was stimulated by mutation in the MDR pump NorA. It is concluded that the plant alkaloids and benzalkonium are penetrating cations and substrates of an MDR pump.
Release of Ca 2+ from Mitochondria via the Saturable Mechanisms and the Permeability Transition
Authors: Pfeiffer Douglas R. , Gunter Thomas E. , Eliseev Roman , Broekemeier Kimberly M. , Gunter Karlene K.
Published: August 2002

The literature, reviewed in the previous article, supports three physiological roles for sequestration of calcium by mitochondria: 1) control of the rate of ATP production, 2) activation of the Ca 2+ ‐induced mitochondrial permeability transition (PT), and 3) modulation of cytosolic Ca 2+ transients. Removal of Ca 2+ from mitochondria permits rapid and efficient changes in the rate of ATP production to adapt to changing demands and can reverse the process of PT induction. Two separate, saturable mechanisms for facilitating Ca 2+ efflux from mitochondria exist. In addition, the permeability transition or PT, which may also remove Ca 2+ from the mitochondrial matrix, is intimately involved in other important functions such as apoptosis. Here we briefly review what is known about these important mitochondrial mechanisms and from their behavior speculate on their possible and probable functions.
The preparation of new poly(phenylsilsesquioxane)-polyimide hybrid films by the sol-gel process and their properties
Authors: Iyoku Yoshitake , Kakimoto Masa-aki , Imai Yoshio
Published: August 2002

The preparation of poly(phenylsilsesquioxane)-polyimide hybrid films was successfully performed with phenyltriethoxysilane (PhTES) and the polyamic acid (polyimide precursor) prepared from 4.4'-oxydianiline (ODA) and pyromellitic dianhydride (PMDA). During the heating process at 300 C, the imidization of the polyamic acid and the sol-gel reaction, hydrolysis and condensation of PhTES, proceeded simultaneously. The IR spectrum and the t3C-NMR and 29Si-NmR spectra showed that the sol-gel reaction of PhTES proceeded in the polymer matrix with high conversion. The hybrid films with a silsesquioxane content up to 75 wt% were obtained as the self-standing form. The hybrid films having a silsesquioxane content of 45 wt% were yellow and transparent, and those having more silicone content were yellow and translucent. The therma] properties of the hybrid films were improved to some extent by the introduction of the silsesquioxane component into the polyimide matrix. With respect to the tensile properties. the tensile strength remained around 85 MPa up to a silicone content of 45 wt%. This value was twice that of the hybrid films based on methyltriethoxysilane. The tensile modulus decreased with increasing silsesquioxane content.
Ground and Excited State Dynamics of Core-modified Normal and Expanded Porphyrins
Authors: SRINIVASAN A. , KUMAR M. RAVI , PANDIAN R. P. , MAHAJAN S. , PUSHPAN K. SIMI , SRIDEVI B. , NARAYANAN S. JAYAPRAKASH , CHANDRASHEKAR T. K.
Published: August 2002

Singlet and triplet excited state data on two new core-modified expanded porphyrins and their protonated derivatives are reported. Absorption spectral studies indicate a gradual red shift of the absorption bands upon sulfur substitution into the core. The singlet lifetimes for expanded S3-sapphyrin and S4-rubyrin decrease steadily relative to STPPH and S2TPP owing to a higher rate of intersystem crossing. Furthermore, the protonated derivatives of S3-sapphyrin and S4-rubyrin encapsulate fluoride ions into their cavities with binding constants of 807 and 48 M−1respectively. However, the triplet lifetime for S3-sapphyrin is longer (58.80 μs) than for normal thiaporphyrins (STPPH, 37.45 μs; S2TPP , 20.96 μs), suggesting that it could be very well suited for photosensitizing triplet oxygen.
Electrochemical and Spectroelectrochemical Characterization of Water-soluble, β-Pyrrolebrominated Cobalt Porphyrins
Authors: D'SOUZA FRANCIS , HSIEH YI-YING , DEVIPRASAD G. R.
Published: August 2002

The electrochemical and spectroelectrochemical characterization of two water-soluble porphyrins, namely the tetrachloro salt of cobalt(II) tetrakis-(N-methyl pyridyl)-β-octabromoporphyrin, [( Br 8 TMPyP ) Co II] Cl 4, and the tetrasodium salt of cobalt(II) tetrakis-(4-sulfonatophenyl)-β-octabromoporphyrin, Na 4[( Br 8 TPPS ) Co II], under different pH conditions is reported. The investigated porphyrins are highly non-planar and electron-deficient owing to the presence of eight bromides at the β-pyrrole positions and the four meso-aryl substituents. The redox potentials corresponding to the first oxidation and first reduction are shifted positively compared with the redox potentials of the respective unbrominated porphyrin derivatives. Spectroelectrochemical studies reveal the formation of a cobalt(III) complex during the first oxidation of both cobalt porphyrins. The first reduction of Br 8 TPPS ) Co II]4− results in a cobalt(I) complex, while involvement of the peripheral N-methyl pyridyl groups in the case of Br 8 TMPyP ) Co II]4+ is suggested. The peak potentials of the first oxidation corresponding to a Co II/ Co III redox couple of both investigated compounds are found to be pH-dependent. Debromination of the β-pyrrole bromo substituents of Br 8 TMPyP ) Co II]4+ at more negative potentials is observed. The UV-vis spectrum obtained after bulk electrolysis of Br 8 TMPyP ) Co II]4+ at −1.0 V vs Ag / AgCl followed by reoxidation at 0.2 V indicates complete elimination of the bromo substituents of the porphyrin periphery.
Kinetics and mechanism of destruction of cobalt phthalocyanine derivatives in aqueous solutions
Authors: BORISENKOVA S. A. , DENISOVA E. P. , BATANOVA E. A. , GIRENKO E. G. , KALIYA O. L. , LUKYANETS E. A. , VOROZHTSOV G. N.
Published: August 2002

The kinetics of the oxidative destruction of cobalt phthalocyanine derivatives in aqueous solutions has been investigated in the concentration interval 10−4–10−5 M as a function of the concentration of alkali and the partial pressure of oxygen in the system. The kinetic equation for the initial solution bleaching rate is obtained. A mechanism of cobalt phthalocyanine destruction involving an intermediate Co (II) → Co (III) oxidation step is suggested.
Journal writing in higher education
Authors: Jarvis Peter
Published: August 2002

Journal writing can be used for teaching and research in higher education in both on‐site and distance‐education modes.
Good Teaching: One Size Fits All?
Authors: Pratt Daniel D.
Published: August 2002

Alternative models of “good teaching” are illustrated with a list of key beliefs, assumptions about learning, strategies that characterize each model, and typical difficulties that accompany each model.
Quantum Learning: Teaching as Dialogue
Authors: Vella Jane
Published: August 2002

We are engaged in a quantum leap into a new epistemology, appropriate for learners who read, write, and think critically and creatively.
The Power of Feelings: Emotion, Imagination, and the Construction of Meaning in Adult Learning
Authors: Dirkx John M.
Published: August 2002

Emotions and imagination are integral to the process of adult learning. The imaginal method is discussed as an alternative to rational and reflective processes of meaning‐making.
Optimal design for discrete‐time linear systems via new performance index
Authors: Polyak B.T. , Halpern M.E.
Published: August 2002

We introduce a class of linear discrete‐time systems called ‘superstable’. For the SISO case this means that the absolute value of the constant term of the characteristic polynomial is greater than the sum of absolute values of all other coefficients, while superstable MIMO systems have a state matrix with l1 norm less than one. Such systems have many special features. First, non‐asymptotic bounds for the output of such systems with bounded input can be easily obtained. In particular, for small enough initial conditions, we get the equalized performance property, recently introduced for the SISO case by Blanchini and Sznaier (36th CDC, San Diego, 1997, pp. 1540–1545). Second, the same bounds can be obtained for LTV systems, provided all the frozen LTI systems are super stable. This makes the notion well suited for adaptive control.

These bounds can be used as the performance index for optimal controller design, as proposed by Blanchini and Sznaier for the SISO case. Then to obtain disturbance rejection in SISO or MIMO systems, we design a controller which guarantees super stability of the closed‐loop system and minimizes the proposed performance index (γ‐optimality). This problem happens to be quasiconvex with respect to the controller coefficients and can be solved via parametric linear programming. Compared with the well‐known l1 optimization‐based design technique, the approach allows low‐order controllers to be designed (while l1 optimal controllers may have high order) and can take into account non‐asymptotic time‐domain behaviour of the system with non‐zero initial conditions. For unbounded controller orders we prove the existence and finite dimensionality of γ‐optimal designs. We also address the robustness issues for transfer functions with coprime factor uncertainty bounded in l1 norm. A robust performance problem can be formulated and similarly solved via linear programming. Numerous examples are provided to compare the proposed design with optimal l1 and H∞ controllers. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis of poly(O‐anisidine) coatings on low carbon steel by electrochemical polymerization of O‐anisidine
Authors: Wankhede M. G. , Koinkar P. M. , More M. A. , Patil P. P. , Gangal S. A.
Published: August 2002

The poly(O‐anisidine) (POA) coatings have been synthesized on low carbon steel (LCS) substrates by electrochemical polymerization (ECP) of O‐anisidine. The synthesis of POA coatings was carried out under cyclic voltammetric and galvanostatic conditions from an aqueous solution of oxalic acid. It has been observed that the formation of POA coatings on LCS occurs after the passivation of its surface via the formation of polycrystalline iron oxalate (FeC2O4·2H2O) interphase. The formation of iron oxalate interphase is confirmed by fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, glancing angle x‐ray diffraction (GAXRD) measurements and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Uniform, granular, and strongly adherent dark green POA coatings were obtained on the LCS substrate by ECP of O‐anisidine. These coatings were characterized by cyclic voltammetry (CV), potential–time (E–t) curves, UV‐visible absorption spectroscopy and SEM. The potential–time curve is characterized by an induction time before the ECP of O‐anisidine. The induction time is found to be dependent on the applied current density. The optical absorption spectroscopy study reveals the formation of conducting emeraldine salt phase of POA. Our results reveal that the oxalic acid is a suitable medium for the ECP of O‐anisidine on the LCS substrate and it favors the formation of emeraldine salt (ES) phase of POA. © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Adv Polym Techn 21: 33–43, 2002; DOI 10.1002/adv.10006
Synthesis and characterization of optically active and functional terpolymer of citronellol, styrene, and methyl methacrylate: A kinetic study
Authors: Pandey Prachi , Srivastava A. K.
Published: August 2002

Synthesis of a series of novel terpolymers, consisting of two electron‐donating monomers, viz. citronellol (optically active) and styrene, with one electron‐accepting monomer, i.e. methyl methacrylate, using benzoyl peroxide as radical initiator and xylene as diluent at 80°C for 2 h has been extensively studied. The system follows ideal kinetics with an overall activation energy of 33 kJ mol−1. The formation of the terpolymer is confirmed by the presence of peaks at 7–8 δ because of phenyl group, 3.4–4 δ because of methoxy group, and 7–7.7 δ because of alcoholic group in 1H NMR spectrum of the terpolymer. Further, the bands at 2900 cm−1, 1750 cm−1, and 3400 cm−1, observed in FTIR spectrum of terpolymer, evidence the presence of phenyl, methoxy, and alcoholic group respectively. The monomer feed–terpolymer composition was determined by the Kelen–Tudos method. The values of reactivity ratios are r1(MMA) = 0.9 and r2(styrene + citronellol) = 0.02. © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Adv Polym Techn 21: 59–64, 2002; DOI 10.1002/adv.10009
Improving nylon dyeability by using redox systems
Authors: Kamel M. M. , Hanna H. L. , El‐Shishtawy Reda M. , Ahmed Nahed S. E.
Published: August 2002

Nylon fiber was subjected to four trials of dyeing using different redox systems: pretreatment with a redox system, simultaneous dyeing and treatment, pretreatment with reductant, and/or pretreatment with oxidant. It has been claimed that dyeability improvement in dyeing of nylon fibers using a redox system is attributed to covalent bonding; however, in this work, it is proved that the increase in dyeing rate and adsorption of acid dyes on nylon fibers in the presence of redox systems could be attributed to the decrease in pH that would lead to an ionic bond, but not to the covalent fixation of dyes on nylon fibers. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Adv Polym Techn 20: 237–247, 2001
Hyperferritinemia as indicator for intravenous immunoglobulin treatment in reactive macrophage activation syndromes
Authors: Emmenegger Urban , Frey Ursula , Reimers Andrea , Fux Christoph , Semela David , Cottagnoud Philippe , Spaeth Peter J. , Neftel Klaus A.
Published: August 2002

The underlying mechanisms of reactive macrophage activation syndromes (rMAS) are not understood in detail, and there is no specific treatment. This observational study was prompted by intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG), dramatically halting two distinct rMAS episodes in the same patient. We evaluated the potential benefits of IVIG administration in treating fulminant rMAS and the usefulness of monitoring serum ferritin levels as an indication for emergency treatment with IVIG. Ten females and 10 males experiencing 22 episodes of rMAS were recruited on the basis of serum ferritin levels ≥10,000 μg/l and/or direct evidence of haemophagocytosis in 11 intensive care units in secondary and tertiary care hospitals in Switzerland between October 1993 and May 2000. In individual patients, serially measured ferritin was closely related to disease activity. Abrupt increases of up to >100,000 μg/l could be observed within hours. Rapid and profound beneficial effects of emergency IVIG treatment were seen in 12 episodes of rMAS accompanied by a prompt decrease of serum ferritin. IVIG produced partial or delayed improvements in 5 patients. No apparent effects were seen in 5 patients. IVIG was only successful if started early during the ferritin run‐up to peak values. In conclusion, IVIG is effective in at least a subgroup of adult rMAS when started at the beginning of the macrophage activation process. The monitoring of serum ferritin levels might be helpful in detecting macrophage activation in order to commence IVIG treatment early enough. Am. J. Hematol. 68:4–10, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Changes in the occurrence of and risk factors for hemophilia‐associated intracranial hemorrhage
Authors: Nuss Rachelle , Soucie J. Michael , Evatt Bruce
Published: August 2002

Recent studies suggest that rates of intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) increased concomitant with the HIV epidemic among the hemophilia population, but no studies have directly examined factors associated with ICH. To determine ICH rates and identify factors associated with ICH, we performed a nested case–control study of a cohort composed of all hemophilic males identified by a surveillance system. Data were obtained from medical records of care received during 1993–1997. Patients with ICH listed in hospital records or on death certificates during the 5‐year period were compared to the remainder of the cohort to examine associations between ICH and patients' demographic and clinical factors including the presence of HIV infection. Among the 3,269 males in the cohort, 88 (2.7%) had an ICH during follow‐up, an average incidence rate of 0.0054 case/year. Hemorrhage sites were intracerebral for 37.5%, subdural for 34.1%, unspecified for 19.3%, subarachnoid for 12.5%, and epidural for 8% of cases. For 22% of cases, the ICH was trauma‐related, and, overall, 16 patients (18.2%) died. Several factors were independently associated with ICH (odds ratio, P value): severe disease (2.0, 0.05); age 51+ years compared to 6–10 year olds (3.7, 0.02); presence of an inhibitor (3.5, <0.001); and HIV infection among whites only (4.0, <0.001). ICH rates in our cohort were 2‐fold higher compared to rates from previous reports. Much of the increase was attributed to HIV infection, which raised ICH risk primarily in whites and was frequently associated with spontaneous ICH among older individuals. Am. J. Hematol. 68:37–42, 2001. Published 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Occupational and environmental risks of spontaneous abortions around a smelter
Authors: Wulff Marianne , Högberg Ulf , Stenlund Hans
Published: August 2002

Background

This study represents part of a follow‐up study on reproductive outcome around a smelter in Sweden.

Methods

Employees at the smelter, a random sample including neighbors of the smelter and referents were analyzed by a register study, covering 1982–1990, a questionnaire study performed in 1992 and a case‐referent study with cases of spontaneous abortions and live borns as referents. Risk factors were studied by logistic regression. A validity‐study between register and questionnaire data on spontaneous abortions and legal abortions was completed.

Results

The studies showed no risk increase for the exposed groups of smelter workers and neighbors compared to the reference group, 10, 11, and 12%, respectively. A validation of the data on abortions between register and questionnaire data showed good agreement.

Conclusions

We found no increase of spontaneous abortion associated to smelter work or to living close to the smelter which could be a result of radically reduced emissions. Am. J. Ind. Med. 41:131–138, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Schizophrenia and the cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1): Association study using a single‐base polymorphism in coding exon 1
Authors: Leroy S. , Griffon N. , Bourdel M.C. , Olié J.P. , Poirier M.F. , Krebs M.O.
Published: August 2002

Abuse of cannabis is frequent among the young and is suspected to precipitate schizophrenia in vulnerable subjects. Cannabinoid receptor (CB1) is particularly concentrated in dopamine‐modulated areas of the nervous system. An association between an AAT polymorphism of the CB1 gene and intravenous drug abuse has been previously reported, but not with schizophrenia. In a French Caucasian population, we compared the distribution of a single‐base polymorphism revealed by MspI within the first exon of the CB1 gene in patients with schizophrenia (n = 102) and ethnic‐ and gender‐matched controls (n = 63). No significant difference was seen in the allele or genotype distribution between the whole sample of schizophrenic patients and controls. However, we found a borderline lack of allele g and a significant lack of gg genotype in the non–substance‐abusing patients compared to substance‐abusing patients, the latter being similar to the controls. These results are the first report of an significant association between CB1 receptor and a subtype of schizophrenia. Studies are needed to confirm and further explore the precise role of the cannabinoid system in schizophrenia. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Correlation between rare chromosomal abnormalities and prenatal ultrasound findings
Authors: Al‐Kouatly Huda B. , Chasen Stephen T. , Gilbert Fred , Ahner Regine , Alonso Lita M. , Chervenak Frank A.
Published: August 2002

Our objective was to examine ultrasound findings with outcomes in cases of rare chromosomal abnormalities diagnosed during pregnancy. Results of cytogenetic studies obtained from amniocenteses and chorionic villus samplings (CVS) from 1994–2000 were reviewed. Only those examples of rare chromosomal abnormalities with little information on the associated outcome were included. Cases of autosomal trisomy (13, 18, and 21), sex chromosome aneuploidy, and reciprocal or Robertsonian translocations were excluded. Ultrasound findings and outcomes were reviewed. In all, 8,642 procedures of amniocenteses and 557 of CVS were performed; 21 cases met the inclusion criteria. Parental karyotypes were obtained for 19 couples and the karyotypic abnormalities were de novo in 13. Abnormal ultrasound findings were present in 14 pregnancies, with the following outcomes: seven underwent dilatation and evacuation (D&E), with abnormal findings in two (although examination was limited by fragmentation); one medical termination with micrognathia and low‐set ears; one fetal demise; one neonatal demise; three surviving neonates with abnormalities (one each with congenital kyphosis, hydronephrosis, and hypotonia), and one newborn was normal. There were seven patients without abnormal ultrasound findings with the following outcomes: three underwent D&E, with abnormal findings in two, one child with a colobomatous optic nerve, and two apparently normal infants. Follow‐up was not available in one patient. We conclude that when rare karyotypes and ultrasound abnormalities are present, poor outcomes are likely. Even with normal ultrasound findings, abnormalities may be present. These data may assist in counseling patients when testing reveals such chromosomal abnormalities. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Hydrocephalus and intestinal aganglionosis: Is L1CAM a modifier gene in Hirschsprung disease?
Authors: Parisi Melissa A. , Kapur Raj P. , Neilson Ian , Hofstra Robert M.W. , Holloway Lynda W. , Michaelis Ron C. , Leppig Kathleen A.
Published: August 2002

Congenital hydrocephalus associated with aqueductal stenosis and/or agenesis of the corpus callosum has been described in newborn males with mutations in L1CAM, a gene that encodes a neural cell adhesion molecule. These males usually have severe mental retardation and may have spastic paraplegia and adducted thumbs. In contrast, Hirschsprung disease, or absence of ganglion cells in the distal gut, has rarely been described in such individuals. We report a male infant who had severe hydrocephalus identified in the prenatal period with evidence of aqueductal stenosis and adducted thumbs at birth. He developed chronic constipation, and rectal biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of Hirschsprung disease. Molecular testing of the L1CAM gene revealed a G2254A mutation, resulting in a V752M amino acid substitution. A common polymorphism in RET, but no mutation, was identified. Our patient represents the third example of coincident hydrocephalus and Hirschsprung disease in an individual with an identified L1CAM mutation. We hypothesize that L1CAM‐mediated cell adhesion may be important for the ability of ganglion cell precursors to populate the gut, and that L1CAM may modify the effects of a Hirschsprung disease–associated gene to cause intestinal aganglionosis. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Further delineation of the chromosome 14q terminal deletion syndrome
Authors: van Karnebeek Clara D.M. , Quik Safira , Sluijter Sigrid , Hulsbeek Miriam M.F. , Hoovers Jan M.N. , Hennekam Raoul C.M.
Published: August 2002

A patient with hypotonia, blepharophimosis, ptosis, a bulbous nose, a long philtrum, upturned corners of the mouth, and mild developmental delay was found to have a small subtelomeric deletion of the long arm of chromosome 14 (q32.31‐qter). In comparing her phenotype with previously reported patients with similar 14q deletions, due to either a linear deletion or to a ring chromosome 14, a clinically recognizable terminal 14q microdeletion syndrome was evident. Due to the limited number of cases reported, it was not possible to assign specific features to specific regions of terminal 14q. The comparison of features in cases with a linear deletion of 14qter (n = 19) to those in cases with a deletion due to a ring chromosome 14 (n = 23), both with the same breakpoint in 14q, showed that seizures and retinitis pigmentosa have been found only in patients with ring chromosomes. Several hypotheses are put forward to explain this difference: mitotic instability of ring chromosomes; a telomere position effect in ring chromosomes in which the 14p telomere silences nearby gene(s) on the q‐arm; and dose‐dependent gene(s) involved in seizures and retinitis pigmentosa located on the short arm of chromosome 14. In our opinion, only seizures may be explained by the mitotic instability of ring chromosomes, while both seizures and retinitis pigmentosa may be explained by silencing of gene(s) on 14q by the 14p telomere; the third hypothesis seems unlikely to explain either symptom. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Novel Igα (CD79a) gene mutation in a Turkish patient with B cell‐deficient agammaglobulinemia
Authors: Wang Yue , Kanegane Hirokazu , Sanal Ozden , Tezcan Ilhan , Ersoy Fügen , Futatani Takeshi , Miyawaki Toshio
Published: August 2002

Mutations that impair early B cell development result in profound antibody deficiency, which is characterized by a paucity of mature B cells and the early onset of recurrent pyogenic infections. Among these inherited early B cell defects, X‐linked agammaglobulinemia (XLA) with mutations in Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) gene is mostly identified. Recent studies have shown that mutations in the gene for μ heavy chain (IGHM) and for other components of the pre‐B cell receptor complex, including λ5/14.1 (IGLL1) or Igα (CD79a), can cause a disorder that is clinically similar to XLA. In a genetic survey of XLA in Turkey, we examined possible mutations in the IGHM, IGLL1, and Igα genes in some male patients with presumed XLA who did not have identifiable BTK mutations. We found an eight‐year‐old boy with a novel homozygous mutation in the Igα gene (IVS2+1G>A) causing B cell defect. This is the second case of agammaglobulinemia due to an Igα (CD79a) deficiency in the world. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Evidence for an association with the serotonin transporter promoter region polymorphism and autism
Authors: Yirmiya Nurit , Pilowsky Tammy , Nemanov Lubov , Arbelle Shoshana , Feinsilver Temira , Fried Iris , Ebstein Richard P.
Published: August 2002

We have examined three functional polymorphisms, serotonin transporter promoter region polymorphism (5‐HTTLPR), dopamine D4 exon III repeat region (DRD4), and catechol‐O‐methyltransferase (COMT), in a small family‐based design toward identifying candidate genes that confer risk for autism. A significant excess of the long/long 5‐HTTLPR genotype was observed (likelihood ratio = 7.18; P = 0.027; 2 df; n = 33 families) as well as preferential transmission of the long allele of the 5‐HTTLPR (TDT chi‐square = 5.44; P<0.025; 1 df). No association was observed between the COMT and DRD4 polymorphisms and autism in this sample. Some previous studies have observed linkage between autism and the 5‐HTTLPR polymorphism and the current results are similar to those first reported by Klauck et al. [1997: Hum Genet 100:224–229; 1997: Hum Mol Genet 6:2233–2238]. Additionally, elevated serotonin levels have been consistently found in 30%–50% of autistic patients and may represent a marker for familial autism. Hyperserotonemia in autism appears to be due to enhanced 5‐HT uptake, as free 5‐HT levels are normal and the current report of an excess of the long/long 5‐HTTLPR genotype in autism could provide a partial molecular explanation for high platelet serotonin content in autism. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Metabotropic glutamate receptor 3 (GRM3) gene variation is not associated with schizophrenia or bipolar affective disorder in the German population
Authors: Martí Sylvia Bort , Cichon Sven , Propping Peter , Nöthen Markus
Published: August 2002

In the present study, we sought to identify genetic variation in the metabotropic glutamate receptor 3 (GRM3) gene, which has been mapped to chromosome 7q21.1–q21.2 [Scherer et al., 1996] and might contribute to genetic predisposition to schizophrenia and/or bipolar affective disorder. Using single‐strand conformation analysis (SSCA), we screened the complete coding sequence as well as adjacent splice sites of the GRM3 gene in a sample of 46 bipolar affective and 46 schizophrenic patients. We detected three sequence variants: a rare C/T substitution at nucleotide position +885 (T209T), a C/T substitution at nucleotide position +2130 (Y624Y), and a more common C/T substitution at nucleotide position +1131 (A291A). The occurrence of the +1131C/T variant was investigated in a sample of bipolar affective patients (n = 283), schizophrenic patients (n = 265), and ethnically matched controls (n = 227). We observed a significant overrepresentation of the +1131T allele in schizophrenic patients when compared to controls (P = 0.0022). This finding was followed up in an independent sample of schizophrenic patients (n = 288) and controls (n = 162) and 128 schizophrenic trios but could not be confirmed. It is therefore unlikely that this variant plays a major role in predisposing to schizophrenia and/or bipolar affective disorder at least in the German population. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Changes in yearling rhesus monkeys’ relationships with their mothers after sibling birth
Authors: Devinney B.J. , Berman C.M. , Rasmussen K.L.R.
Published: August 2002

The birth of a new sibling is believed to signify an abrupt and important transition in a young primate’s relationship with its mother—one that is of potential importance from at least three theoretical perspectives: attachment theory, parent–offspring conflict theory, and dynamic assessment models. This study examines changes in relationships between free‐ranging yearling rhesus monkeys (Macaca mulatta) and their mothers concomitant with the birth of the mother’s next infant, and tests predictions derived from each theoretical perspective. We observed 31 yearling rhesus on Cayo Santiago, Puerto Rico, 3 months before and 3 months after their siblings’ births, using focal animal sampling methods. Changes in measures related to mother–yearling interaction and yearling distress were examined using repeated‐measures analysis of variance. After sibling birth, mothers and yearlings abruptly reduced amounts of time in contact and increased amounts of time at a distance and out of sight of one another. Mothers and yearlings played approximately equal roles in bringing about decreases in proximity, and yearlings took the primary roles in bringing about decreases in contact. Rates of maternal aggression toward yearlings increased immediately and markedly after birth, possibly providing yearlings with early cues regarding subsequent decreased levels of maternal care. There were no marked increases in overt signs of yearling distress (e.g., vocalizations or tantrums) following the births. We conclude that yearlings generally acquiesced to reduced levels of care, responding behaviorally with increased independence and maturity. In this sense, our study provides preliminary support for dynamic assessment models over attachment theory and parent–offspring conflict theory models. Am. J. Primatol. 54:193–210, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.