bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Laparoscopic Adjustable Gastric Banding
Authors: Belachew Mitiku , Legrand Marc , Vincent Vernon , Lismonde Michel , Docte Nicole Le , Deschamps Veronique
Published: August 2002

We introduced open adjustable silicone gastric banding (ASGB) for treatment of morbid obesity in our institution in 1991. It was done in a prospective study comparing ASGB with vertical banded gastroplasty (VBG) with regard to weight loss. After 200 cases of open ASGB and 210 VBG procedures and the encouraging weight loss results, we started laparoscopic placement of the adjustable silicone band. The initial work was done in an animal laboratory program where a new surgical protocol has been established. Details of the laparoscopic dissection around the stomach in a deep operative field and fatty atmosphere have been developed, and a laparoscopically implantable version of the adjustable silicone band (LAGB) has been devised. The first human laparoscopic ASGB procedure was performed in our institution on September 1, 1993. Altogether 350 patients had undergone adjustable silicone gastric banding (LASGB) procedures by May 1997 (277 women, 73 men). All the patients were morbidly obese, with an average preoperative weight of 118 kg (92–200 kg). The mean BMI was 43 kg/m2 (36–65 kg/m2). The conversion rate to laparotomy has been low (1.4%). Early complications have been rare, and pouch dilatation and stomach slippage have been the only significant late complications. The rate of these complications has been considerably improved by reducing the pouch volume and using more gastrogastric sutures. Evaluation of postoperative weight loss of LASGB patients compared with our VBG and ASGB (open) patients showed a similar curve.
Endoscopic Surgery: Fit for Malignancy?
Authors: Müller J.M. , Schwenk W. , Jacobi C.A. , Böhm B.
Published: August 2002

Neither experimental nor clinical data confirm the repeatedly published opinion that video‐endoscopic surgery promotes tumor growth or the occurrence of implantation metastases in cancer patients. On the contrary, alterations due to pneumoperitoneum by the application of different gases, pressures, and temperatures might provide the basis for a new therapeutic approach to cancer surgery. Oncologically adequate resections defined by such terms as “no touch isolation” and “monobloc resection” can be performed video‐endoscopically in a variety of intraabdominally or intrathoracically located cancers if a standardized technique is used. The benefit of video‐endoscopic surgery is limited in large tumors, especially if they have reached the organ surface. There is still a major deficit in the clinical evaluation of video‐endoscopic interventions in most oncologic diseases. Randomized studies comparing video‐endoscopic and conventional surgery have been reported only for the resection of colorectal carcinoma. They show that laparoscopic resections can be performed with a minimum of postoperative complications to the same extent as conventional resections and offer several advantages during the early postoperative period. No reliable data from comparative trials are as yet available on the long‐term results.
Endoscopic Surgery: Ideal for Endocrine Surgery?
Authors: Marescaux Jacques , Mutter Didier , Vix Michel , Leroy Joel
Published: August 2002

The laparoscopic approach of endocrine tumors is recent, the first reported resection of an adrenal gland in 1992. It represents a revolution in endocrine surgery equivalent to that observed in general surgery after the first cholecystectomy was performed in 1987. This new approach needs evaluation in terms of feasibility, indications, safety, and surgical procedure to define its potential advantages. The surgical technique and operative approaches of laparoscopic adrenalectomies are at the present time well defined and mostly accepted. Pancreatic approaches and resections, thyroidectomies, and parathyroidectomies are more confidential and performed only by rare teams. Nevertheless, the development of this technique is ineluctable. The spread of this technique, partly due to the increased quality of the technologies available, especially cameras, encounter a major brake that limits its generalization: If general surgeons commonly perform laparoscopy in their daily practice, they treat few patients presenting endocrine disorders. On the other hand, endocrine surgeons to whom many patients are referred do not have regular videoscopic practice. Endocrine surgery benefit few patients for these reasons. An analysis of the present state of the art allows us to imagine the evolution and future of videoscopic endocrine surgery.
Ascaris‐induced Liver Abscess
Authors: Javid Gul , Wani Nazir A. , Gulzar Ghulam M. , Khan Bashir A. , Shah Altaf H. , Shah Omer J. , Khan Mushtaq
Published: August 2002

The prevalence, symptomatology, and outcome of Ascaris‐induced liver abscess was studied prospectively in Kashmir, India, which is an endemic area of ascariasis, from December 1987 to December 1997. Of 510 patients with liver abscess admitted during this period, 74 had biliary ascariasis as the cause (14.51%). Of these 74 patients, 11 had intact ascaridae (live or dead) within the abscess. Six patients had a single abscess, and five had multiple abscesses. Seven patients had associated worms in the bile ducts. Ultrasonography was the main diagnostic procedure used. Ten patients were diagnosed based on clinical and ultrasound findings, and one was diagnosed during laparotomy. Most of the patients were young (age range 3–40 years) with a mean age of 17.20 years. Seven were females, and four were males. Ten patients underwent surgery; nine recovered completely, and one died postoperatively due to septicemia. Another patient died as well: a young child who presented late, was in refractory septic shock following suppurative cholangitis and liver abscess, and could not be taken for surgery. The mortality thus was 9.9%. Liver abscess following invasion of intrahepatic biliary radicles by ascaridae through the ampulla is an unusual complication of an otherwise common disease in Kashmir Valley, affecting children and young adults. The outcome depends on early diagnosis and surgical drainage of the abscess with extraction of worms from the ducts.
Complicated Enterocutaneous Fistulas: Failure of Octreotide to Improve Healing
Authors: Alvarez Carlos , McFadden David W. , Reber Howard A.
Published: August 2002

Octreotide has been promoted as a potential aid during closure of enterocutaneous fistulas (ECFs) on the basis of clinical and experimental evidence that it can reduce gastrointestinal secretions. We retrospectively reviewed the records of patients admitted with ECF to our tertiary referral center to ascertain whether use of octreotide affected fistula duration, length of hospitalization, closure rate, and morbidity. Of 60 patients diagnosed and treated for ECF over a 4‐year period, 13 underwent a therapeutic trial with octreotide. Thirteen patients from the group who did not receive octreotide were matched by cause, location, and output of the fistula, age, and primary diagnosis to the treatment group. Octreotide was administered in therapeutic dosage for a mean course of 57 ± 29 days, resulting in a substantial acute decrease (84.7 ± 4.8%) in fistula output. Prolonged therapy nevertheless failed to affect the outcome parameters studied, particularly fistula duration, spontaneous closure rate, and length of hospitalization. There was a significantly higher incidence of septic and thrombotic complications associated with octreotide use. In this patient population with complicated ECFs, use of octreotide showed no benefit and was associated with increased morbidity.
The genetic heterogeneity of deer mouse populations (Peromyscus maniculatus) in an insular landscape
Authors: Landry Pierre‐Alexandre , Lapointe François‐Joseph
Published: August 2002

A survey of the genetic variability in deer mouse populations was performed using specimens collected from six different islands on a lake covering approximately 50 km2. Random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) was used to measure the extent of the genetic differences in this insular system. An analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) revealed that populations are clearly separated at this microgeographic scale (Fst = 0.13863; P < 0.001). The homogeneity of molecular variance test (HOMOVA) indicated that within‐population levels vary greatly (Bp = 0.76831; P < 0.001). The within‐population molecular variance was found to be mainly correlated with the accessibility of the islands, computed as the inverse of the geographic distance separating an island from the lakeshore (r = 0.916; P < 0.003).
Photocleavage of Plasmid pBR322 DNA by Some Anionic Porphyrins
Authors: CHATTERJEE SHAMPA R. , SRIVASTAVA T. S. , KAMAT J. P. , DEVASAGAYAM T. P. A.
Published: August 2002

The water-soluble porphyrins meso-tetrakis[4-(carboxymethyleneoxy)phenyl]porphyrin ( H 2 T4CPP ), meso-tetrakis[3-(carboxymethyleneoxy)phenyl]porphyrin ( H 2 T3CPP ) and meso-tetrakis[3,4-bis(carboxymethyleneoxy)phenyl]porphyrin ( H 2 T3 , 4BCPP ) cleave plasmid pBR322 DNA to single-strand breaks (SSBs) in the presence of molecular oxygen and visible light. These porphyrins induced SSBs in DNA as a function of irradiation time as well as porphyrin concentration. Under similar conditions (10 μM or more), H 2 T3CPP showed more SSBs in DNA than the porphyrins H 2 T 4CPP and H 2 T 3,4 BCPP . The DNA cleavage was more in D 2 O -based buffer than in H 2 O buffer. In addition, this DNA cleavage was inhibited by the presence of sodium azide and lipoic acid, which are potent quenchers of singlet oxygen (1 O 2). These observations suggest the involvement of 1 O 2 in photocleavage of DNA. Further, the DNA cleavage, to a limited extent, was also inhibited by tert-butanol and mannitol, both quenchers of hydroxyl radical (· OH ), suggesting the involvement of · OH in photocleavage of DNA. Thus both 1 O 2 and · OH are involved in photocleavage of plasmid DNA by these porphyrins.
Fabrication of Gas Sensors Based on Soluble Phthalocyanines
Authors: KUDO TERUHISA , KIMURA MUTSUMI , HANABUSA KENJI , SHIRAI HIROFUSA , SAKAGUCHI TAKEHIKO
Published: August 2002

Gas sensors based on 2,9,16,23-tetra(2,6-dimethylphenoxy)metallophthalocyanine (TDMP- MPc ) films on interlocking silver electrodes were fabricated by solvent casting from chloroform solutions containing 2,9,16,23-tetra(2,6-dimethylphenoxy)copper, cobalt or nickel phthalocyanine ( TDMP - CuPc , TDMP - CoPc or TDMP - NiPc ). The sensitivity of the gas sensors to the presence of NO 2 and the depletion of O 2 was investigated. It was confirmed that the gas sensors based on TDMP - CuPc and TDMP - CoPc films could detect 1 ppm NO 2 at room temperature and that the current responses to the presence of NO 2 and the depletion of O 2 were considerably quick. These results indicate that adsorption and desorption of NO 2 and O 2 on the surfaces of TDMP - MPc films are easily achieved at room temperature.
Dendritic porphyrins: synthesis and third-order optical non-linearity
Authors: SINGH BHANU P. , VIJAYA R. , SHETTY SHANKAR J. , KANDASAMY K. , PUNTAMBEKAR P. N. , SRIVASTAVA T. S.
Published: August 2002

First- and second-generation dendritic porphyrins were synthesized by cascade polymer methodology. The second molecular hyperpolarizabilities (γ) of these dendritic porphyrins as well as 5,10,15,20-tetraphenylporphyrin were measured by the Z-scan technique at 800 nm using a mode-locked Ti:sapphire laser. The relationship between the various structures and their corresponding second molecular hyperpolarizabilities are explained on the basis of the oscillator strength of the Q band and the increasingly electron-rich microenvironment created by the dendritic branches around the porphyrin core.
A multiple‐group inquiry into whiteness
Authors: European‐American Collaborative Challenging Whiteness
Published: August 2002

Separate groups pursue inquiries into the impact of White hegemony on participants’ lives. This project’s unique infrastructure supports learning that leads to changed beliefs and new behaviors.
Parameter identifiability of differential delay equations
Authors: Verduyn Lunel Sjoerd M.
Published: August 2002

Parameter identifiability is concerned with the question whether the parameters of a specific model can be identified from knowledge about certain solutions of the model, assuming perfect data. In this paper we shall consider conditions for identifiability of parameters and time delays in infinite dimensional dynamical systems, described by linear differential delay equations, assuming knowledge of particular solutions on bounded time intervals. We shall show how methods from operator theory can be exploited to give necessary and sufficient conditions which guarantee that the inverse problem has a unique solution. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Recurrent leg ulcers and arterial thrombosis in a 33‐year‐old homozygous variant of antithrombin
Authors: Shimizu Kazuhiro , Toriyama Fumi , Ogawa Fumihide , Katayama Ichiro , Okajima Kenji
Published: August 2002

We report here a homozygous variant case of antithrombin (AT) associated with arterial thrombosis and recurrent leg ulcers. The deep vein thrombosis was recognized by the venogram of his pelvic veins. His leg ulcers were scattered around his left ankle and accompanied by lipodermatosclerosis, which was evident in venous insufficiency. The propositus had developed cerebral infarction 12 years prior to his leg ulcers. Coagulation study showed low heparin cofactor activity of his AT with a normal level of immunoreactive AT. Nucleotide sequence analysis of the exon 2 of his AT gene showed Arg47‐Cys mutation, leading to the lack of affinity of AT for heparin. The propositus is a homozygote for this abnormality. Am. J. Hematol. 66:285–291, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Marital status and age at natural menopause: Considering pheromonal influence
Authors: Leidy Sievert Lynnette , Waddle Diane , Canali Kristophor
Published: August 2002

Married women generally report a later mean age at menopause. The results reported here, from a study carried out in Greene County, New York, are no exception. Married and widowed women report a later mean age at natural menopause compared to single and divorced women (P < 0.05). To better understand the relationship between marital status and age at menopause, possible mechanistic and confounding variables are examined, in particular parity, sexual activity, smoking habits, level of education, and income. Parity and income 10 years prior to interview are significant factors, along with marital status, that explain part of the variation in age at natural menopause. An alternative explanation is the pheromonal influence of a male in the household. This would explain the consistency of results across populations. This pilot study supports further biochemical investigation. Am. J. Hum. Biol. 13:479–485, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Association between three functional polymorphisms of dopamine D2 receptor gene and tardive dyskinesia in schizophrenia
Authors: Hori Hiroko , Ohmori Osamu , Shinkai Takahiro , Kojima Hideki , Nakamura Jun
Published: August 2002

The dopamine D2 receptor (DRD2) gene is considered one of the candidate genes contributing to the development of tardive dyskinesia (TD). In the present study, we investigated the genetic association between three functional polymorphisms (Ser311Cys, −141C Ins/Del and TaqI A) in the DRD2 gene and TD (200 patients with schizophrenia: 44 with TD and 156 without TD). No significant difference in the allelic and genotypic distribution between patients with TD and those without TD was observed. However, we found a slightly significant association between the −141C Ins/Del polymorphism and the total Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale (AIMS) score (P = 0.037). The significant association between the −141C Ins/Del polymorphism and the total AIMS score did not remain after the regression analysis was taken into account (P = 0.14). Our results suggest that that three functional polymorphisms in DRD2 may not play a major role in the occurrence of TD. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Oculoauriculofrontonasal syndrome (OAFNS) in a nine‐month‐old male
Authors: Ishmael Holly A. , Begleiter Michael L. , Regier Elizabeth J. , Butler Merlin G.
Published: August 2002

We report a nine‐month‐old Caucasian male with features seen in oculoauriculovertebral spectrum (OAVS) and frontonasal dysplasia sequence (FND) born to normal, non‐consanguineous parents and review the literature. His malformations included a left pre‐auricular skin tag, severely hypoplastic right pinna without an external canal, severely everted and hypoplastic left upper eyelid, bilateral cleft lip and palate, bifid broad nasal tip, ocular hypertelorism, micrognathia, hypoplastic mandible, an extra cervical rib on the left, hemivertebrae at T3–4, agenesis of the posterior corpus callosum with a midline lipoma, and an extra renal pelvis. This constellation of anomalies is consistent with the diagnosis of oculoauriculofrontonasal syndrome (OAFNS) which appears to be a distinct condition from either OAVS or FND but with overlapping features. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
ABCD syndrome is caused by a homozygous mutation in the EDNRB gene
Authors: Verheij Joke B.G.M. , Kunze Jürgen , Osinga Jan , van Essen Anthonie J. , Hofstra Robert M.W.
Published: August 2002

ABCD syndrome is an autosomal recessive syndrome characterized by albinism, black lock, cell migration disorder of the neurocytes of the gut (Hirschsprung disease [HSCR]), and deafness. This phenotype clearly overlaps with the features of the Shah‐Waardenburg syndrome, comprising sensorineural deafness; hypopigmentation of skin, hair, and irides; and HSCR. Therefore, we screened DNA of the index patient of the ABCD syndrome family for mutations in the endothelin B receptor (EDNRB) gene, a gene known to be involved in Shah‐Waardenburg syndrome. A homozygous nonsense mutation in exon 3 (R201X) of the EDNRB gene was found. We therefore suggest that ABCD syndrome is not a separate entity, but an expression of Shah‐Waardenburg syndrome. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Short bi‐iliac distance in prenatal Ullrich‐Turner syndrome
Authors: Hartling Ulla B. , Fischer Hansen Birgit , Keeling Jean W. , Skovgaard Lene T. , Kjær Inger
Published: August 2002

The purpose of the present study is to evaluate the bi‐iliac distance and the caudo‐cranial position of the iliac bones in Ullrich‐Turner syndrome (UTS) fetuses compared to recently published standards for normal fetuses. Whole‐body radiographs in antero‐posterior projections of 24 UTS fetuses (crown‐rump lengths, 106–220 mm) were included in the study. From each radiograph, two horizontal (outer and inner bi‐iliac distances) and two vertical (caudo‐cranial) positions compared to the vertebral column were measured to estimate the position of the iliac bones. The present investigation revealed that both the outer and inner bi‐iliac distances were significantly shorter in UTS fetuses than in normal fetuses. We also found that for the inner bi‐iliac distance, the growth rate in UTS fetuses was significantly lower than in normal fetuses. This finding suggests not only a lesser growth but also a different growth pattern compared to normal fetuses. Regarding the caudo‐cranial position of the iliac bones compared to the lower vertebral column, there was no significant difference for the lower caudo‐cranial position, but the upper caudo‐cranial position was significantly lower in UTS fetuses than in normal fetuses. The bi‐iliac distance and the iliac bone position have not previously been described in Ullrich‐Turner syndrome fetuses. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A rec(4) dup 4p inherited from a maternal inv(4)(p15q35): Case report and review
Authors: Garcia‐Heras Jaime , Martin Judith
Published: August 2002

A rec(4) dup 4p inherited from a maternal inv(4)(p15q35) was detected in a four‐year‐old girl with malformations, developmental delay, and behavioral problems that resemble those for trisomy 4p. A review of eight other liveborns with rec(4) dup 4p shows that about 40% of them also have manifestations in common with trisomy 4p, but the rest have a variable spectrum of malformations. Overall, the rec(4) dup 4p phenotype is not specific, and a diagnosis would not have been feasible without cytogenetic studies. This lack of a clinically recognizable phenotype could reflect the effects of the variable sizes of deletions of 4q, molecular differences in the break points, or the known variable expression of trisomy 4p. The fact that 79% of the recombinants in the offspring of inv(4)(p13‐p15q35) carriers are rec(4) dup 4p suggests that meiotic recombination favors its generation or that rec(4) dup 4q are more lethal in utero. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Spondylocarpotarsal synostosis with epiphyseal dysplasia
Authors: Honeywell Christina , Langer Leonard , Allanson Judith
Published: August 2002

We report on an 11‐year‐old boy with thoracolumbar fusion, carpal synostosis, short stature, scoliosis, lordosis, defective dentition, and recurrent otitis media consistent with the diagnosis of spondylocarpotarsal synostosis syndrome. Unlike other documented cases, radiographs of our patient at 5½ years of age show delay in ossification of many of the epiphyses in addition to delay in carpal ossification. Such delay may have contributed to the distinctly short stature of this boy. This report both confirms and extends the phenotype of this recently delineated syndrome. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Lack of association of the two polymorphisms in alpha‐2 macroglobulin with Alzheimer disease
Authors: Poduslo S.E. , Shook B. , Drigalenko E. , Yin X.
Published: August 2002

Alzheimer disease is a complex neurodegenerative disorder that is characterized by cognitive decline and distinct neuropathology. The gene for alpha‐2 macroglobulin (A2M) on chromosome 12 has two polymorphisms that, in some cases, are associated with Alzheimer disease. We examined these two polymorphisms in our families in the DNA Bank (a collection of DNA samples from families with Alzheimer disease in Texas). Using both association studies and sib transmission/disequilibrium tests, we found no association of the two polymorphisms with the disease in our collection. In addition, we did not find an association of the disease with the two polymorphisms in A2M in a small subset of National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) families. Thus, our studies do not support the A2M polymorphisms as a risk factor for Alzheimer disease. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Association of the tryptophan hydroxylase gene with smoking initiation but not progression to nicotine dependence
Authors: Sullivan Patrick F. , Jiang Yuxin , Neale Michael C. , Kendler Kenneth S. , Straub Richard E.
Published: August 2002

We investigated the association between two markers in the seventh intron of the tryptophan hydroxylase gene (TPH C218A and C779A) in a population‐based case control study of 780 genotyped subjects. As in prior studies, the two markers were in strong linkage disequilibrium. The phenotypes we studied were smoking initiation and progression to nicotine dependence. Allele, genotype, and estimated haplotype frequencies for each marker were highly significantly different for smoking initiation (P < 0.0004 for each comparison) and were nonsignificant for progression to nicotine dependence. An empirical test suggested that the positive results were unlikely to have resulted from population stratification. Our results are similar to those of Lerman et al. [2001: Am J Med Genet (Neuropsychiatr Genet) 105:000–000] in associating these TPH markers with a construct related to smoking initiation but dissimilar in the variable implicated. If these results replicate in other samples, the serotonergic system may be involved in the etiology of smoking initiation given the rate‐limiting role of TPH in the biosynthesis of serotonin. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Common polymorphisms in LRP and A2M do not affect genetic risk for Alzheimer disease in Northern Ireland
Authors: McIlroy Stephen P. , Dynan Kevin B. , Vahidassr D Jamil , Lawson John T. , Patterson Christopher C. , Passmore Peter
Published: August 2002

Genetic variation in one of the major APOE receptors in the brain has been associated with increased risk for Alzheimer disease (AD). A C/T polymorphism in exon 3 and a tetranucleotide repeat polymorphism in the 5′ region of the low‐density lipoprotein receptor‐related protein gene have been reported to increase risk in some studies but these reports have not been universally replicated. In addition, genetic variation in another ligand of LRP, alpha‐2 macroglobulin (A2M), has also been associated with increased AD risk. However, these reports also remain controversial. We have genotyped both LRP polymorphisms and two polymorphisms in the A2M gene in a large group of clinically well‐defined AD cases and controls from the relatively genetically homogeneous Northern Ireland population. Comparison of genotype and allele frequencies for polymorphisms in LRP revealed no significant differences between cases and controls. Multiple logistic regression analysis performed to assess any possible interaction between LRP and APOE revealed little evidence for genetic interaction despite the obvious biological interaction. Genotype and allele comparisons between the groups for the A2M polymorphisms also gave no evidence that either polymorphism increased risk for disease. The results from this study indicate that polymorphisms in LRP and A2M are not associated with increased risk for AD in Northern Ireland. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Mutation analysis of the retinoid X receptor beta, nuclear‐related receptor 1, and peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor alpha genes in schizophrenia and alcohol dependence: Possible haplotype association of nuclear‐related receptor 1 gene to alcohol dependence
Authors: Ishiguro Hiroki , Okubo Yoshiro , Ohtsuki Tsuyuka , Yamakawa‐Kobayashi Kimiko , Arinami Tadao
Published: August 2002

Because retinoid cascades are involved in the regulation and development of the central nervous system, including dopaminergic neurons, retinoic acid signaling defects may contribute to schizophrenia and substances dependence. Retinoid X receptors (RXRs) form heterodimer complexes with nuclear‐related receptor 1 (NURR1) or with peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptors (PPARs). We examined 48 Japanese patients with schizophrenia and 32 patients with alcohol dependence to detect mutations in the retinoid X receptor beta gene (RXRB) on chromosome 6p21.3, the NURR1 gene (NR4A2) on chromosome 2q22–q23, and the PPAR alpha gene (PPARA) on chromosome 22q12.2–13.1. A Val95Ala polymorphism of the RXRB gene, a Val227Ala polymorphism in the PPARA gene, and two synonymous single‐nucleotide and CA repeat polymorphisms in the 5′ region and 3′ untranslated region of the NR4A2 gene were identified. Extended case control samples did not suggest an association between the diseases and the RXRB or PPARA polymorphisms. However, they revealed a significant association between the NR4A2 gene haplotype and alcohol dependence, indicating that 2q22–q23 including the NR4A2 gene locus is a possible genomic region contributing to genetic susceptibility to alcohol dependence. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Ancestral loss of the maxillary sinus in Old World monkeys and independent acquisition in Macaca
Authors: Rae Todd C. , Koppe Thomas , Spoor Fred , Benefit Brenda , McCrossin Monte
Published: August 2002

Cercopithecoid monkeys are unique among primates in that all species (except macaques) lack a maxillary sinus, an unusual condition among eutherian mammals. Although this uncommon distribution of cranial pneumatization was noted previously, the phylogenetic ramifications have not been investigated fully. Recently, character state optimization analysis of computed tomography (CT) data from extant Old World monkeys suggested that the loss of the sinus may have occurred at the origin of the group, unlike previous hypotheses positing only a reduction in size of the structure. To critically evaluate the “early loss” hypothesis, a recently recovered complete cranium of Victoriapithecus macinnesi from Maboko Island, Kenya, was examined by CT to determine the extent of its cranial pneumatization. This taxon is crucial for evaluating character state evolution in Old World monkeys, due to its phylogenetic position, preceding the cercopithecine/colobine split.

CT analysis reveals only cancellous bone lateral of the nasal cavity, indicating that Victoriapithecus does not possess a maxillary sinus. Phylogenetic evaluation of the fossil with extant catarrhine taxa strongly supports the early loss of the sinus in cercopithecoids. The results suggest that the maxillary sinus found in the genus Macaca is not homologous with that of other eutherians, which may provide insights into the origin and function (if any) of the paranasal pneumatizations. Am J Phys Anthropol 117:293–296, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Morphological variation within a macaque hybrid zone
Authors: Bynum Nora
Published: August 2002

A hybrid zone exists between Macaca tonkeana and Macaca hecki (Primates: Cercopithecidae), centered along the Tawaeli‐Toboli road in the narrow isthmus that connects North and Central Sulawesi, Indonesia. The current study demonstrates morphological substructure from north to south across the hybrid zone. Macaques to the northwest of the Tawaeli‐Toboli road more closely resemble M. hecki, and macaques to the southeast of the road resemble M. tonkeana. While morphology shifted for both males and females over a distance of 1,500–2,000 m, adult males were significantly more M. tonkeana‐like across the morphological gradient. This suggests that in the study area, males of M. tonkeana‐like morphology are dispersing into hybrid groups at the expense of M. hecki‐like males. A permutation analysis of diagnostic character states indicated that associations existed among several morphological traits. This could be due to the operation of one or several nonexclusive evolutionary processes, including recent secondary contact, pleiotropic effects, physical linkage of loci, natural selection against hybrids, the influx of parental types, or assortative mating. Continued environmental perturbation associated with the Tawaeli‐Toboli road is likely to be a significant factor in the future of the M. tonkeana/M. hecki hybrid interaction. Am J Phys Anthropol 118:45–49, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Loss of interhemispheric inhibition on the ipsilateral primary sensorimotor cortex in patients with brachial plexus injury: fMRI study
Authors: Hsieh Jen‐Chuen , Cheng Henrich , Hsieh Hsiu‐Min , Liao Kwong‐Kum , Wu Yu‐Te , Yeh Tzu‐Chen , Ho Low‐Tone
Published: August 2002

This functional magnetic resonance imaging study verified an antagonistic pattern in which a concomitant deactivation of ipsilateral primary sensorimotor (SM1) was coupled to the contralateral SM1 activation in healthy controls during unimanual hand grasping. Of note, dramatic reduction of ipsilateral SM1 deactivation (loss of antagonistic pattern) was observed during movement of intact hands by patients with unilateral brachial plexus injury. We propose that the disappearance of the antagonistic pattern of SM1 activities in the patients with brachial plexus injury reflects a reduction of interhemispheric inhibition, which may mirror an adaptive mechanism to functional status.
Mature, long‐lived CD4+ and CD8+ T cells are generated by the thymoma in myasthenia gravis
Authors: Buckley Camilla , Douek Daniel , Newsom‐Davis John , Vincent Angela , Willcox Nicholas
Published: August 2002

Antibodies to muscle acetylcholine receptors, to other muscle antigens, and to some cytokines are found in the majority of patients with thymic tumors (thymomas) and myasthenia gravis (MG). The role of the tumor in initiating autoimmunity, however, is unclear; in particular, it is not known whether the thymoma exports mature and long‐lived T cells, which could provide help for antibody production in the periphery. Here, we quantified recently exported thymic T cells using the approach of measuring episomal DNA fragments [T‐cell receptor excision circles (TRECs)], generated by T‐cell receptor gene rearrangement. Compared to values in healthy individuals (n = 10) or in patients with late‐onset MG (n = 8), TREC levels were significantly raised in both the CD4+ and CD8+ peripheral blood compartments of patients with thymoma and MG (n = 14, p = 0.002 and p = 0.0004 compared to healthy controls) but only in the CD8+ compartment of the 3 patients with thymoma without MG (p = 0.4 and p = 0.01 for CD4+ and CD8+). TREC levels decreased following thymectomy to values similar to controls but were substantially raised in patients who had developed tumor recurrence (n = 6, p = 0.04 and p = 0.02 for CD4+ and CD8+); this was associated with increased antibodies to interferon‐α and interleukin‐12 in the one case studied serially. Collectively, these results support the hypothesis that the neoplastic thymoma tissue itself can generate and export mature, long‐lived T cells and that these T cells reflect the thymic pathology and are likely to be related to the associated autoimmune diseases. The results also provide a new approach for early diagnosis of thymoma recurrence.
Are certain diuretics also anticonvulsants?
Authors: Hesdorffer Dale C. , Stables James P. , Hauser W. Allen , Annegers John F. , Cascino Gregory
Published: August 2002

A history of diuretic use has been shown to be protective for first unprovoked seizure in adult patients. Recent animal studies suggest that certain diuretics have anticonvulsant activity. We evaluated the potential for the anticonvulsant activity of current diuretic use in a population‐based, case–control study in older adults. We also tested chlorthiazide and furosemide for seizure protection in animal models of epilepsy. Concurrent medical prescription of any diuretic was protective for the development of epilepsy [odds ratio (OR) = 0.62, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.39–0.99]. A protective effect for current thiazide use was observed (OR = 0.53, CI = 0.31–0.90), and a protective effect for furosemide was suggested (OR = 0.44, CI = 0.1–1.9). In mice, both chlorthiazide and furosemide suppressed the occurrence of maximal electroshock‐induced seizures in a dose‐dependent manner. Chlorthiazide's toxic dose for 50% of animals tested (TD50) could not be achieved even with dosing as high as 1,500 mg/kg; for furosemide, TD50 was 549 mg/kg. Results were similar in rats. Furosemide and chlorthiazide are protective for unprovoked seizures in an epidemiological study and in animal models. Given the potential therapeutic value for seizure control, low toxicity, and low cost, therapeutic efficacy should be explored in clinical studies.
Myelinopathia centralis diffusa (vanishing white matter disease): Evidence of apoptotic oligodendrocyte degeneration in early lesion development
Authors: Brück Wolfgang , Herms Jochen , Brockmann Knut , Schulz‐Schaeffer Walter , Hanefeld Folker
Published: August 2002

We describe histopathological changes in a 2‐year‐old boy who died from myelinopathia centralis diffusa. Despite extensive white matter destruction, surprisingly high numbers of oligodendrocytes expressing proteolipid protein mRNA were detected. In an active demyelinating lesion in the brainstem, oligodendrocytes showed typical signs of apoptosis. We suggest that death of mature oligodendrocytes is the critical event in the disease.
Investigation of heterogeneous radical polymerization of methyl methacrylate with polydimethylsiloxane as stabilizing agent in supercritical CO2 by turbidimetry
Authors: Fehrenbacher U. , Ballauff M. , Muth O. , Hirth T.
Published: August 2002

Experimental results of a turbidimetric in situ investigation of the heterogeneous radical polymerization (dispersion polymerization) of methyl methacrylate and polydimethylsiloxane–monomethacrylate in supercritical carbon dioxide are presented. The experiments were carried out at 60 °C and 330 bar. Turbidity spectra were measured directly in the autoclave to determine the average particle diameter στ and the particle density NAV/V during the first five minutes of polymerization. The results show that the particle density increased until a maximum was achieved, whereas the particle diameter increased during the first stage. Moreover, a comparison with kinetic data suggests that the particles nucleate through coagulation of polymer that is formed in the homogeneous phase. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Arsenic speciation in sea scallop gonads
Authors: Lai Vivian W.‐M. , Cullen William R. , Ray Sankar
Published: August 2002

The arsenic species in male and female sea scallop gonads (Placopecten magellanicus) at pre‐spawning and post‐spawning stages, collected near Newfoundland, Canada, were characterized by using high‐performance liquid chromatography–inductively coupled plasma‐mass spectrometry. All samples contain arsenobetaine (0.5–3.0 µg g−1) and a dimethylarsinoylriboside derivative as the major water‐soluble arsenic compounds. Male pre‐spawning gonads contain 0.35–2.4 µg g−1 of the dimethylarsinoylriboside. Female pre‐spawning gonads contain 0.47–9.64 µg g−1 of the same compound. Post‐spawning gonads, both male and female, contain higher concentrations of this compound (3.7–11.4 µg g−1). The total concentrations of water‐soluble arsenic compounds are different in male and female pre‐spawning gonads. These differences are not obvious in post‐spawning gonads. Post‐spawning gonads contain higher total concentrations of water‐soluble arsenic compounds than pre‐spawning gonads. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Computational study of dimethyl‐ and trimethyl‐tin(IV) complexes of porphyrin derivatives
Authors: Duca Dario , Barone Giampaolo , Manna Gianfranco La , Fiore Tiziana , Pellerito Claudia , Stefano Roberta Di , Scopelliti Michelangelo , Pellerito Lorenzo
Published: August 2002

The molecular geometry, energetics and electronic charge distribution of diorgano‐ and triorgano‐tin(IV) complexes of [protoporphyrin‐IX] and [meso‐tetra(4‐carboxyphenyl)porphine] derivatives were determined at semi‐empirical and ab initio levels. To study the molecular details of the complexes, simpler molecule models were calculated by the ab initio pseudo‐potential method. The molecular properties of these complexes are essentially independent of the presence of the peripheral tin atoms. Agreement was always found among the results of the different computational approaches, as well as between the theoretical and the experimental findings on the molecular geometry of the hypothesized complexes. Interaction modes between water and the organo‐tin systems considered were affected strongly by the presence of peripheral tin atoms. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Atmospheric pressure chemical vapour deposition of selenium and tellurium films by UV laser photolysis of diethyl selenium and diethyl tellurium
Authors: Pola Josef , Bastl Zdeněk , Šubrt Jan , Ouchi Akihiko
Published: August 2002

Excimer laser‐induced photolysis of gaseous diethyl selenium and diethyl tellurium (C2H5)2M (M = Se, Te) is controlled by cleavage of both MC bonds, it yields C1–C4 hydrocarbons (ethene as major product) and results in chemical vapour deposition of selenium films and nanosized tellurium powder. The selenium and tellurium properties were characterized by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and Scanning electron Microscopy techniques. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Organometallic dyes: Part 1. Synthesis of orange to cyan dyes based on donor–conjugated–acceptor chromogenes using ferrocene as the donor group
Authors: Asiri Abdullah Mohamed
Published: August 2002

A novel series of organometallic donor–conjugated–acceptor dyes derived from ferrocene as the donor group have been synthesized via the Knoevenagel reaction of ferrocene carboxaldehyde and various active methylene compounds to give a range of dyes ranging from orange to blue–green in color. The most bathochromic dye is that derived from dialkyl thiobarbituric acid and the least is that derived from the tetralone. The dyes showed an unusual negative solvatochromism as the solvent polarity increased. All dyes synthesized are expected to have some non‐linear optical properties, as evidenced from the pronounced solvatochromism. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
High‐resolution thermogravimetry of polyphenylene sulfide film under four atmospheres
Authors: Li Xin‐Gui , Huang Mei‐Rong , Bai He , Yang Yu‐Liang
Published: August 2002

Thermal degradation of polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) film was investigated in air, nitrogen, helium, and argon with different physical and reactive characteristics from room temperature to 790°C by a high‐resolution thermogravimetry (TG) at a variable heating rate in response to the changes in the sample's weight‐loss rate. In nitrogen and argon, only a single‐step degradation process of the PPS was observed, but in helium, a two‐step degradation process of PPS was found. Notably, in air a four‐step degradation process of the PPS, which was hardly ever revealed by a traditional TG, was found in this investigation. The initial thermal degradation temperature Td and temperature at the first maximum weight‐loss rate Tdm1 of the PPS increased in the following order: in helium < in nitrogen < in argon < in air. The first maximum weight‐loss rate also increased with the variation of atmosphere in the order: nitrogen < air < argon < helium. The char yield at 700°C increased in the order: in air < in helium < in nitrogen < in argon. The activation energy of the major degradation process of PPS calculated based on the high‐resolution TG data was very high, increasing in the order: in nitrogen < in argon < in helium < in air. The thermal decomposition parameters of the PPS determined by the high‐resolution TG were systematically compared with those by traditional TG at a constant heating rate. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 83: 2053–2059, 2002
Fast‐responding bulk hydrogels with microstructure
Authors: Cai Wensheng , Gupta Ram B.
Published: August 2002

A new method was used for the production of fast‐responding bulk hydrogels with microstructure (BHMs) with a high swelling ratio. These BHMs were synthesized first by the formation of poly(N‐isopropylacrylamide‐co‐acrylic acid) (NIPAAm–AA) microgel particles and then by the crosslinking of the particles with N‐isopropylacrylamide monomer. The polymer obtained had the desired microstructure but was bulk (monolithic), so it could be used in a variety of applications. The NIPAAm–AA microgel particles were characterized with transmission electron microscopy, and the formed BHMs were characterized with scanning electron microscopy. Compared with conventional bulk hydrogels, the BHMs had very high swelling ratios and much faster swelling rates attributable to the collaboration of the ionized microgel particles and bulk hydrogels. An increase in the microgel particles embedded in the BHMs provided faster hydrogel swelling. The number of ionic acrylic acid groups in the hydrogels affected their swelling behavior. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 83: 169–178, 2002
New supports for enzyme immobilization based on copolymers of vinylene carbonate and β‐hydroxyethylene acrylate
Authors: Ding Lunhan , Li Yue , Jiang Yan , Cao Zhe , Huang Jiaxian
Published: August 2002

Vinylene carbonate (VCA), β‐hydroxyethylene acrylate, and N,N′‐methylene bisacrylamide were dissolved in water, and the aqueous solutions were copolymerized via reverse‐phase suspension copolymerization in paraffin oil. A series of hydrophilic and beaded supports containing reactive cyclic carbonate groups for enzyme immobilization were obtained. The supports were examined by coupling with trypsin, and the results showed that the amount of enzymes coupled to the supports and the specific activity of the immobilized trypsin were related to the content of VCA structure units and the reaction time. Meanwhile, the optimal pH and temperature, as well as the Michaelis–Menten constant Km, for both native and immobilized trypsin were measured. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 83: 94–102, 2002
Electrochemical deposition of polyaniline–polypyrrole composite coatings on aluminum
Authors: Akundy Gouri Smitha , Rajagopalan Ramakrishnan , Iroh Jude O.
Published: August 2002

The electrodeposition of polyaniline–polypyrrole composite coatings on aluminum was successfully performed by using cyclic voltammetry. Oxalic acid was used as the electrolyte. Electrodeposition was carried out at a scan rate of 20 mV/s by varying the number of cycles. An anodic peak current at around −0.1 V versus saturated calomel electrode (SCE) was observed in the cyclic voltammograms. This peak is due to the oxidation and adsorption of hydrogen. The cyclic voltammograms also show another anodic peak current at around 1.0 V versus SCE, which is the characteristic peak of the polyaniline–polypyrrole composite. The behavior of this peak with respect to the number of cycles is discussed in detail. A corresponding cathodic peak current at around −0.7 V versus SCE was also observed in the cyclic voltammograms. The infrared spectra of the composite coatings revealed the infrared peaks of both polypyrrole and polyaniline. The scanning electron micrographs of the coatings indicate a morphology completely different from its homopolymers. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 83: 1970–1977, 2002
Postpolymerization of vinyl acetate‐containing latexes
Authors: Ilundain Pedro , Da Cunha Louis , Salazar Rafael , Alvarez Daniel , Barandiaran María J. , Asua José M.
Published: August 2002

The postpolymerization of vinyl acetate (VAc)‐containing latexes with tert‐butyl hydroperoxide (TBH)/ascorbic acid (AsA) as a redox initiation system was investigated. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as acetone and tert‐butyl alcohol were produced in this process. The influence of the TBH/AsA ratio, initiator concentration, reaction temperature, and feeding time on the reduction of residual VAc and VOC formation during the postpolymerization was investigated. A total reduction of residual VAc monomer was achieved, with the formation of VOCs kept within acceptable limits. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 83: 923–928, 2002
High‐retention properties for Hg(II) ions of a resin containing ammonium and pyridine groups
Authors: Rivas Bernabé L. , Ovando Paulina , Villegas Sandra
Published: August 2002

The metal‐ion uptake behavior of the chelating resin poly([(3‐(methacryloylamino)propyl] trimethyl ammonium chloride‐co‐4‐vinyl pyridine) has been investigated. The resin is obtained by radical copolymerization in a yield of 99.6%. The hydrophilic resin shows a high retention capacity and selectivity toward Hg(II) ions in the presence of Cu(II), Pb(II), Cd(II), Zn(II), and Cr(III) ions. A retention of Hg(II) higher than 99% is observed after 5 min. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 83: 2595–2599, 2002
New polymer bipolar plates for polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells: Synthesis and characterization
Authors: Del Río C. , Ojeda M. C. , Acosta J. L. , Escudero M. J. , Hontañón E. , Daza L.
Published: August 2002

Carbon black (CB) and polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) composites were obtained and subsequently characterized, both microstructurally (DSC and DMA) and electrically. In addition, the electrochemical performance of these materials was tested in the form of bipolar plates, expressly manufactured for this purpose and incorporated in a conventional fuel cell. The results obtained allow for the conclusion that CB incorporation into PVDF yields polymer composite materials with electrical conductivity of about 2.4 S/cm, which may be thermically processed and given any convenient shape with the means conventionally applied in the field of polymer technologies. It was found that CB concentration slightly affects the microstructural parameters of the composites (melting temperature, glass‐transition temperature, Avrami kinetic parameters, etc.). © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 83: 2817–2822, 2002; DOI 10.1002/app.10257