bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Generalized Steiner systems GS4 (2, 4, v, g) for g = 2, 3, 6
Authors: Wu D. , Ge G. , Zhu L.
Published: August 2002

Generalized Steiner systems GSd(t, k, v, g) were first introduced by Etzion and used to construct optimal constant‐weight codes over an alphabet of size g + 1 with minimum Hamming distance d, in which each codeword has length v and weight k. Much work has been done for the existence of generalized Steiner triple systems GS(2, 3, v, g). However, for block size four there is not much known on GSd(2, 4, v, g). In this paper, the necessary conditions for the existence of a GSd(t, k, v, g) are given, which answers an open problem of Etzion. Some singular indirect product constructions for GSd(2, k, v, g) are also presented. By using both recursive and direct constructions, it is proved that the necessary conditions for the existence of a GS4(2, 4, v, g) are also sufficient for g = 2, 3, 6. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Combin Designs 9: 401–423, 2001
Collineation groups of the intersection of two classical unitals
Authors: Giuzzi L.
Published: August 2002

Kestenband proved in [12] that there are only seven pairwise non‐isomorphic Hermitian intersections in the desarguesian projective plane PG(2, q) of square order q. His classification is based on the study of the minimal polynomials of the matrices associated with the curves and leads to results of purely combinatorial nature: in fact, two Hermitian intersections from the same class might not be projectively equivalent in PG(2, q) and might have different collineation groups. The projective classification of Hermitian intersections in PG(2, q) is the main goal in this paper. It turns out that each of Kestenband's classes consists of projectively equivalent Hermitian intersections. A complete classification of the linear collineation groups preserving a Hermitian intersection is also given. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Combin Designs 9: 445–459, 2001
Expression of CD66a in multiple myeloma
Authors: Satoh Yukihiko , Hayashi Toshiaki , Takahashi Tohru , Itoh Fumio , Adachi Masaaki , Fukui Mikiko , Kuroki Motomu , Kuroki Masahide , Imai Kohzoh , Hinoda Yuji
Published: August 2002

CD66a is a member of the carcinoembryonic antigen family and has been suggested to function as an intercellular adhesion molecule and cell growth regulator. Expression of CD66a in myeloma cells was examined with mAb TS135 against CD66a transfectants of murine‐transformed fibroblasts. The reactivity of mAb TS135 with CD66a, CD66c, and CD66e was revealed. CD66a in myeloma cells was considered to be detectable with this mAb, since CD66c and CD66e are not expressed in them. CD66a was detected in three myeloma cell lines and an IgM‐producing B‐cell line. In clinical bone marrow specimens, including 18 multiple myeloma, two primary macroglobulinemia, and a case of CLL‐like chronic lymphoproliferation with monoclonal IgG production, CD66a and three conventional myeloma cell markers (PCA‐1, CD38, and CD56) were examined by indirect immunofluorescence assay. The results showed that 18 out of 21 cases (86%) were CD66a+, and PCA‐1 showed the highest correlation with CD66a among conventional markers. Primary macroglobulinemia and chronic lymphoproliferation were also CD66a+. Two‐dimensional flow cytometry with mAbs TS135 and CD38 confirmed the reactivity of TS135 with myeloma cells in those bone marrow specimens. The findings suggest that CD66a is expressed in multiple myeloma with high frequency. J. Clin. Lab. Anal. 16:79–85, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Relation of polymorphism in the promotor region for the human osteocalcin gene to bone mineral density and occurrence of osteoporosis in postmenopausal Chinese women in Taiwan
Authors: Chen Huey‐Yi , Tsai Horng‐Der , Chen Wen‐Chi , Wu Jer‐Yuarn , Tsai Fuu‐Jen , Tsai Chang‐Hai
Published: August 2002

Osteoporosis is a common disorder with a strong genetic component. Our aim was to evaluate the correlation of the HindIII osteocalcin gene polymorphism to bone mineral density (BMD) and their relationship to osteoporosis. We determined the HindIII osteocalcin gene polymorphism using polymerase chain reaction (PCR)‐based restriction analysis in postmenopausal Chinese women in Taiwan. The osteocalcin gene polymorphism was detected by the restriction enzyme HindIII, where the H allele indicated the absence of the cuttable site and the h allele indicated its presence. We then related the genotypes to BMD and occurrence of osteoporosis in these women. The allelic frequencies for postmenopausal Chinese women in Taiwan were 64% for h and 36% for H in HindIII restriction fragment length polymorphisms. The prevalence of each genotype in the study population was 37.7% hh, 52.6% Hh, and 9.7% HH. The subjects with genotype hh had the greatest BMD at the lumbar spine and the femoral neck, and those with HH had the smallest BMD at the femoral neck, but these differences did not reach statistical significance. The HindIII osteocalcin genotype showed a significant effect on the prevalence of osteoporosis in the subjects at the femoral neck, that is, women with genotype HH had a 6.4 times greater risk for osteoporosis (P < 0.05), and those with genotype Hh had a 1.2 times greater risk than women with genotype hh. In conclusion, the HindIII osteocalcin gene polymorphism is associated with reduced BMD and predisposes women to osteoporosis at the femoral neck. J. Clin. Lab. Anal. 15:251–255, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Prescription privileges for psychologists: Can differing views be reconciled?
Authors: Heiby Elaine M.
Published: August 2002

This article introduces papers addressing reasons to oppose prescription privileges for psychologists. The articles are organized in terms of six topics that appear in the testimony presented to state legislatures by the American Psychological Association (APA) and the American Association of Applied and Preventive Psychology (AAAPP). The six topics concern whether there is a societal need for psychologists to practice medicine, whether psychology as a discipline has evolved in this direction, how training would change the discipline, what the addition of medical training would cost financially, if the current collaborative model is adequate, and how the policy of APA and AAAPP can be better understood. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol 58: 589–597, 2002.
Training psychologists in clinical psychopharmacology
Authors: Levant Ronald F. , Shapiro A. Eugene
Published: August 2002

This article first describes three types of psychopharmacology training programs for psychologists: 1. postdoctoral programs that award certificates and/or continuing education credit; 2. postdoctoral programs that award master's degrees in psychopharmacology; 3. a predoctoral program that awards joint psychology and nursing degrees. Next, the postdoctoral masters degree program at Nova Southeastern University is described in some detail. We close with some general comments about the current status of these training efforts. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol 58: 611–615, 2002.
Between search and research: How to find your way around? Review of the article “Thought Field Therapy— Soothing the bad moments of Kosovo”
Authors: Rosner Rita
Published: August 2002

This article is based on a review of the article, “Thought Field Therapy—Soothing the Bad Moments of Kosovo,” (Johnson, Shala, Sejdijaj, Odell, & Dabishevici [2001]). As it is assumed that it is the intention of the reviewed article to prove the effectiveness of TFT, the information given is evaluated in terms of how well this goal is attained. However, as a sample description is not provided and minimal methodological standards, such as some kind of standardized diagnostical procedure, are not met, it is not possible to appraise issues central to any empirical study. Furthermore the design of the study is not in accordance with the goal of the study, as any control for expectancy effects, natural remission, or even a comparison with other successful psychotherapeutic procedures is missing. The study provides very limited evidence for the effectiveness of TFT. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Clin Psychol 57: 1241–1244, 2001.
Ebp1, an ErbB‐3 binding protein, interacts with Rb and affects Rb transcriptional regulation
Authors: Xia Xianmin , Cheng Aiwu , Lessor Tracy , Zhang Yuexing , Hamburger Anne W.
Published: August 2002

Ebp1, an ErbB‐3 binding protein, inhibits the proliferation and induces the differentiation of human breast cancer cells. The mechanisms of these effects are unknown. Rb, the product of the retinoblastoma gene, is an important modulator of cell cycle progression and cellular differentiation. We report that Rb is a binding target for Ebp1. Ebp1 was localized to both the nucleus and the cytoplasm of logarithmically growing AU565 breast cancer cells and HeLa cells as determined by confocal immunofluorescent microscopy. Ebp1 was present in Rb immunoprecipitates derived from AU565 breast cancer cells. GST‐Rb also bound endogenous Ebp1. Using GST‐Ebp1 constructs, we determined that the 72 C‐terminal amino acids of Ebp1 were sufficient to bind Rb. Dephosphorylation of Ebp1 enhanced the interaction of Ebp1 with Rb. The overexpression of Ebp1 in MCF‐7 and AU565 (Rb+) cells inhibited the activity of the E2F1 regulated cyclin‐E promoter. Ebp1 bound E2F1 indirectly via Rb in lysates of MCF‐7 cells. The interaction of Ebp1 with Rb may prove to be an important mechanism of Ebp1 induced changes in cell proliferation and differentiation. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A comparative and mechanistic study on regioselective photooxidative demethylation of N‐heterocyclics using TiO2 and molecular oxygen
Authors: Rao Kambala V Subba , Srinivas Basavaraju , Boule Pierre , Subrahmanyam Machiraju
Published: August 2002

Regioselective photooxidative demethylation of methyl‐substituted N‐containing heterocyclic compounds is investigated in non‐aqueous (ethane nitrile) solutions containing semiconductor oxide (TiO2) as photocatalyst in the presence of molecular oxygen upon irradiation at room temperature conditions. A plausible electron transfer mechanism, in which an electron‐hole pair is generated on the surface of TiO2 by illumination, is proposed for the semiconductor‐mediated photocatalysis. Molecular orbital calculation by the AM 1 method has been performed for the electron densities of N‐atoms of heterocyclics in the present study.

© 2002 Society of Chemical Industry
Partitioning of chicken egg white proteins in polyelectrolyte/salt aqueous two‐phase systems composed of polyethyleneoxide–maleic acid copolymer and potassium phosphate
Authors: Kajiuchi Toshio , Shin‐Ya Yoshitsune , Nagai Hidetada , Fujiwara Koichi
Published: August 2002

Aqueous two‐phase systems were formed from solutions of a polyelectrolyte, polyethyleneoxide–maleic acid copolymer, and potassium phosphate. The properties of such aqueous two‐phase systems were highly dependent on pH. This was reflected in the partition behavior of three chicken egg white proteins: lysozyme, conalbumin and ovalbumin. Separability of these three proteins was improved by the use of the polyelectrolyte, in comparison with when uncharged polyethylene glycol (poly(1,2‐dihydroxyethane)) was used as a phase‐forming polymer.

© 2002 Society of Chemical Industry
Lipase‐catalyzed dynamic kinetic resolution of (R,S)‐fenoprofen thioester in isooctane
Authors: Chen Chia‐Yin , Cheng Yu‐Chi , Tsai Shau‐Wei
Published: August 2002

A lipase‐catalyzed enantioselective hydrolysis process under in situ racemization of the remaining (R)‐thioetser substrate with trioctylamine as the catalyst was developed for the production of (S)‐fenoprofen from (R,S)‐fenoprofen 2,2,2‐trifluoroethyl thioester in isooctane. Detailed investigations of trioctylamine concentration on the enzyme activation and the kinetic behavior of the thioester in racemization and enzymatic reactions were conducted, in which good agreement between the experimental data and theoretical results was observed.

© 2002 Society of Chemical Industry
Intussusception induced by villous tumor of the colon: Sonographic findings
Authors: Fujii Yasutomo , Taniguchi Nobuyuki , Itoh Kouichi
Published: August 2002

We report a case of intussusception caused by a villous tumor of the ascending colon in an 82‐year‐old man. Abdominal sonography showed intussusception in the ascending colon, with a transverse scan demonstrating a multiple concentric ring sign. Color Doppler sonography showed blood flow signals in a mass, which was considered to be the lead point of the intussusception. A spontaneous reduction of the intussusception occurred during the examination; sonography then showed a mildly echogenic, mass. The graded compression method revealed that the mass was soft and immobile. Colonoscopy confirmed the diagnosis of villous tumor. Sonography helped to make an early diagnosis, allowing successful conservative management of the tumor and the intussusception. © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 30:48–51, 2002.
Intermittent drop in blood flow velocity in the internal carotid artery and its branches
Authors: Samii Cirus , Diehl Rolf R. , Berlit Peter
Published: August 2002

Extracranial Doppler sonography and transcranial Doppler sonography (TCD) allow the assessment and monitoring of hemodynamic and embolic events in cerebrovascular diseases. We describe an unusual hemodynamic phenomenon in a patient with intracranial carotid siphon stenosis and no clinical symptoms of stenosis. TCD examination suggested and angiography confirmed stenosis of the left internal carotid artery siphon. TCD examination revealed a sudden, intermittent drop in blood flow velocity in both the prestenotic and poststenotic segments of the internal carotid artery, whereas cardiac hemodynamic parameters were unaffected. Embolic signals were detected in the poststenotic vessels only. We speculate that such sonographic findings may be caused by intermittent vessel occlusions due to the reversible displacement of an intraluminal thrombus in relation to the cardiac cycle. © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 30:98–102, 2002; DOI 10.1002/jcu.10037
Sonographically guided arterial blood sampling using a handheld Doppler device
Authors: Ngan Michael (Fung)
Published: August 2002

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of a commercially available handheld Doppler device for sonographic guidance during arterial blood sampling in patients whose veins are inaccessible and whose arterial pulses are indistinct on palpation. From September 2000 through February 2001, blood samples were obtained from the brachial arteries of 20 patients ranging in age from 60 to 85 years. A commercially available continuous‐wave, handheld Versadopp 10 Doppler device with a 10‐MHz transducer, connected to a stethoscope, was aligned over each patient's brachial artery and used to determine the point of maximum flow. The blood‐collection needle was inserted into the skin and advanced toward the point of maximum flow. Arterial blood samples were successfully obtained with no more than 2 passes in each patient. Sampling was unsuccessful in 2 patients; blood was obtained, however, from the contralateral brachial artery in both patients. This Doppler tool is convenient and easy to use and is helpful for obtaining arterial blood samples from obese or edematous patients whose veins cannot be accessed and who have weak, indistinct arterial pulses. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 30:158–160, 2002; DOI 10.1002/jcu.10048
Could industrial noise be regarded as a risk factor for arterial hypertension?
Authors: Soleo L. , Pesola G. , Vimercati L. , Lasorsa G. , Zocchetti C. , Cassano F. , Palmi S. , Merluzzi F.
Published: August 2002

The aim of this study was to determine whether occupational noise exposure is a risk factor that may favour a chronic increase of diastolic and systolic blood pressure and a higher prevalence of arterial hypertension. A cross‐sectional study was performed on 1372 workers employed in 11 cement plants in central and southern Italy. In 1985 the workers were subjected to a medical examination during which blood pressure was measured and information about personal features, occupational activity, diseases, family history of hypertension, use of antihypertensive drugs, smoking habit and alcohol intake were also gathered by questionnaire. For each worker noise exposure (dBA) was estimated using a series of indicators representing both the levels of exposure at the time of study and loud energy previously absorbed during the occupational life spent in the industry considered. 41.4% of the examined workers were hypertensive, according to the World Health Organization (WHO) definition (i.e. systolic blood pressure (SBP) levels ≥140 and/or diastolic blood pressure (DBP) levels ≥90 mmHg and/or reported antihypertensive treatment). Linear regression analysis showed a positive influence of age, BMI and use of antihypertensive drugs for both systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Noise exposure, independent of the indicators, was negatively associated with diastolic blood pressure only. The logistic regression analysis of the different variables contributing to high blood pressure showed a positive influence of age, BMI and family history of hypertension, while only some indicators of noise exposure were found to be negatively associated with arterial hypertension. Noise exposure, as assessed by all the different indicators used in the study, does not seem to influence systolic arterial pressure, but does have a negative influence on diastolic pressure. The prevalence of arterial hypertension, as defined by WHO criteria, appears negatively associated with noise exposure. The results obtained could be related both to a physiological variation of blood pressure following chronic noise exposure and to an unfavourable combination of elements further accentuated by the limitations of the cross‐sectional study. Copyright © 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Prevention of occupational and environmental diseases by implementation of ISO14000 and BS8800 for industries
Authors: Wang Jung‐Der , Chung Chih‐Wen
Published: August 2002

Rapid industrialization usually brings both economic development and environmental pollution, which often produces occupational diseases in the workplace and environmental diseases in the nearby community. From experience of documenting 17 occupational diseases, we found that they resulted from a lack of a comprehensive hazard communication system. The spillage of such unknown chemical hazards also produced environmental diseases for the neighbouring factories and community. Because the general treatment of occupational and environmental diseases must include the identification of hazard and taking preventive procedures to avoid further exposure, it is essential to recognize and control the hazard at the start of an industry. Thus, implementation of the life cycle assessment in ISO (International Organization of Standardization) 14000 series will guide an industry to identify and minimize the use of hazardous chemicals. A similar practice of risk assessment and reduction for every unit operation in the production process proposed by BS (British Standard) 8800 will also help to improve occupational health. Although implementation of such systems is a voluntary compliance, actual practice demands the same systems in related or satellite factories and has a strong market implication. Copyright © 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Evidence of a threshold effect for TSP in the Philadelphia data set
Authors: Nicolich Mark J. , Gamble John F.
Published: August 2002

The purpose of the present paper is to examine the complex set of questions about the PM‐mortality exposure–response (E‐R) relationship by looking at the practical and demonstrable consequences of time series model building and by considering alternate modelling methods.

Two questions are posed. The first is how to demonstrate goodness‐of‐fit for an exposure–response model and the effectiveness of a particular term in the model. The second is how to detect poor model fit associated with unusual relationships in the data, such as thresholds or other non‐linear patterns. Suggested solutions are demonstrated using the Philadelphia data set used by Kelsall. These solutions are potentially applicable to other time series data analyses.

Examination of the example data indicate several findings. First, the addition of the pollution terms to a model which contains temporal and weather variables has a negligible change on the predictive ability of the model. While the statistical criteria are slightly improved the practical improvement in mortality prediction is minimal. Second, for these data, there is demonstrable evidence that there is a threshold effect for total suspended particulate (TSP) on predicted mortality. The threshold is also seen in the gaseous pollutants. Lastly, the inclusion of terms representing the day of the week statistically improves model fit to a greater extent than the pollution terms.

The results from this exercise suggest that several steps should be added to the traditional analysis and presentation of time‐series data. These include visual and tabular presentation of results from each major model and analysis for a threshold at least for the criteria pollutant terms. The presentation elements allow the reader to independently assess model fit and the predictive capabilities of the model. Determination of a threshold allows objective determination of a no adverse effect level. Overall, application of these methods to time‐series analyses provides more specificity for testing the predictive power of the model and for protecting health.Copyright © 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Multiple roles of adrenomedullin revealed by animal models
Authors: Caron Kathleen M. , Smithies Oliver
Published: August 2002

The newly identified adrenomedullin (AM) gene codes for a potent, highly conserved vasodilator that is expressed in many tissues. Many biological functions have been ascribed to AM based on its broad expression pattern and numerous in vitro studies, and it is currently viewed as a multifunctional peptide hormone. Recent advances in gene manipulation have permitted the development of experimental animal systems to help distinguish between gene causes and effects in the context of otherwise normal physiology, and so the normal biological function of the AM gene can be studied within the intact physiological milieu of a whole animal. In this review article, we summarize the recent findings from three different types of genetic experiments involving the AM gene. Microsc. Res. Tech. 57:55–59, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Functional interaction of G protein‐coupled receptors of the adrenomedullin peptide family with accessory receptor‐activity‐modifying proteins (RAMP)
Authors: Born Walter , Muff Roman , Fischer Jan A.
Published: August 2002

Adrenomedullin (AM), α‐ and β‐calcitonin gene‐related peptide (CGRP), calcitonin (CT), and amylin are homologous polypeptides with overlapping biological actions such as vasodilatation and inhibition of bone resorption. They are brought about through receptors that include the CT receptor (CTR) and an initially orphan CT receptor‐like receptor (CRLR) in association with receptor‐activity‐modifying proteins (RAMP)1, ‐2, and ‐3. Co‐expression of CRLR with RAMP1 or ‐2 revealed CGRP or AM receptors, respectively. The CTR interacts with CT and does not require a known RAMP for functional expression. The same CTR is a CGRP/amylin or an amylin receptor upon co‐expression with RAMP1 or ‐3, respectively. Interactions between CRLR and RAMP are thought to be required for their delivery to the cell surface. There, heterodimeric complexes between CRLR or CTR and the corresponding RAMP reveal high‐affinity receptors for AM, CGRP, and amylin. Here we review the current knowledge on interactions of G protein‐coupled receptors with defined associated proteins. Microsc. Res. Tech. 57:14–22, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
mAb 5‐1‐6 nephropathy and nephrin
Authors: Kawachi Hiroshi , Koike Hiroko , Shimizu Fujio
Published: August 2002

It is well established that the glomerular capillary wall consists of three layers: endothelial cell, glomerular basement membrane, and the slit diaphragm bridging foot processes of glomerular epithelial cell. Which structure in the glomerular capillary wall represents the primary filter for retaining plasma proteins is not clearly elucidated. An anti‐slit diaphragm monoclonal antibody (mAb) 5‐1‐6 causes massive proteinuria in rats by single intravenous injection, which clearly indicates that the slit diaphragm plays a critical role for maintaining the barrier function of the glomerular capillary wall. Recently, we concluded that mAb 5‐1‐6 recognized a rat homolog of nephrin, a gene product of NPHS1. The expression of nephrin decreased in puromycin aminonucleoside nephropathy and adriamycin nephropathy as well as mAb 5‐1‐6‐induced nephropathy, which suggested that nephrin was involved in the development of proteinuria in these proteinuric states. In mAb 5‐1‐6 nephropathy, the slit diaphragm was maintained morphologically normal, although nephrin expression dramatically decreased. The finding suggested that nephrin was not a sole component of the slit diaphragm. To better understand the structure of the slit diaphragm, it is particularly important to identify other components that build up the structure of the slit diaphragm together with nephrin. Microsc. Res. Tech. 57:236–240, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Temporal and spatial localization of prothymosin α transcript in the Harderian gland of the frog, Rana esculenta
Authors: de Rienzo Gianluca , di Sena Rona , Ferrara Diana , Palmiero Carmela , Baccari Gabriella Chieffi , Minucci Sergio
Published: August 2002

The Harderian gland (hg) is the only orbital gland of the frog Rana esculenta, and it has the essential function of lubricating the eyes. The hg secretory activity is seasonal, showing the highest value in summer. There is, at present, no data on gene expression of the frog hg. This study reports, for the first time, on the temporal and spatial expression of a cDNA clone encoding for the prothymosin α (Prot‐α), a highly acidic nuclear protein present in virtually all mammalian cells. Northern blot analysis revealed a single 1.7 kb transcript detected in the frog hg throughout the year, with a lowest expression in September in concomitance with the minimum secretory activity. In situ hybridization indicated that hg secretory cells express Prot‐α transcript, and the hybridization signal was less intense in the September gland. The constant expression of the frog Prot‐α mRNA during the whole year suggests a constitutive role for this molecule in the hg. In addition, taking into account that, in mammals, many immunomodulatory functions have been attributed to this protein, it is suggested that frog Prot‐α might contribute to the hg immunity processes, probably acting as a protective agent against infections of the eyeball. Interestingly, although the presence of Prot‐α gene in animals other than mammals has been considered to be highly unlikely, the present paper confirms the presence of Prot‐α transcript in a nonmammalian vertebrate, the frog R. esculenta. J. Exp. Zool. 292:633–639, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effects of inorganic and organic phosphate exposure on aspects of reproduction in the common sea urchin Lytechinus variegatus (Echinodermata: Echinoidea)
Authors: Böttger S. Anne , McClintock James B.
Published: August 2002

The common nearshore sea urchin Lytechinus variegatus is capable of surviving exposure to inorganic phosphate concentrations as high as 3.2 mg/l–1 and organic phosphate concentrations of 1,000 mg/l–1. However, chronic exposure to low, medium, or high sublethal concentrations of these phosphates inhibits gonadal tissue indices and spawning activity while altering biochemical composition of gonads, reducing size frequencies of oocyte diameters, and changing gonadal volume fractions. Gonad indices declined significantly in individuals maintained in all phosphate concentrations after both one‐ and two‐month exposures, while percentages of ripe individuals (oozing gametes upon dissection) were reduced after a two‐month exposure in individuals maintained in medium and high organic phosphate concentrations. Levels of carbohydrates and lipids were lower in gonads of individuals maintained in all concentrations of both phosphates. Size frequency distributions of oocyte diameters revealed a dramatic decrease in oocyte size with increasing concentrations of both phosphates. Gonadal volume fractions of developing male and female gametes decreased with exposure to increasing phosphate levels. Volume fractions of nutritive phagocytes declined in testes of individuals held in the highest concentration of organic phosphate but displayed no significant change in ovaries. Volume fractions of mature gametes also decreased in gonads of individuals exposed to increasing concentrations of inorganic phosphate, but they remained constant in individuals exposed to all concentrations of organic phosphate. These findings indicate that shallow‐water populations of L. variegatus subjected to inorganic and organic phosphate pollutants will exhibit stress that may impair reproductive output, gametogenesis, and spawning in the natural environment. J. Exp. Zool. 292:660–671, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Transport of 22Na+ and 45Ca2+ by Xenopus laevis oocytes expressing mRNA from lobster hepatopancreas
Authors: Mandal Anita , Mandal Prabir , Ahearn Gregory
Published: August 2002

This paper describes the development of a functional assay system to express crustacean epithelial electrogenic 2Na+/1H+ antiporters in Xenopus laevis oocytes. Subsequent publications will use this assay method to establish nucleotide and amino acid sequence information about this transporter by functionally screening an hepatopancreatic cDNA library. In this method, oocytes were injected with hepatopancreatic mRNA (50 ng) isolated from Homarus americanus, while control oocytes received injections of an equivalent volume of distilled water. Three to five days post‐injection, oocytes were incubated in media containing either 22Na+ or 45Ca2+ for specific time intervals and the rates of ion transfer into the oocytes were monitored under a variety of experimental conditions. Uptakes of both radiolabelled cations were stimulated by mRNA injection. mRNA‐stimulated 22Na+ uptake was significantly (P < 0.05) inhibited by addition of calcium, amiloride, or by an antiporter‐specific monoclonal antibody to the external medium. mRNA‐stimulated 45Ca2+ uptake was significantly (P < 0.05) inhibited by addition of sodium, amiloride, cadmium, zinc, or by the antiporter‐specific monoclonal antibody (also inhibitory for 22Na+ transport) to the external medium. The kinetics of 22Na+ influx in mRNA‐injected oocytes were sigmoidal functions of external sodium concentration, exhibiting a Hill Coefficient (n) of approximately 3.0. Both calcium and amiloride significantly (P < 0.05) reduced sigmoidal sodium influx kinetics by alterations in the Jmax (amiloride) or KNa (calcium) of the transporter. Size fractionation of hepatopancreatic mRNA resulted in a single fraction that was most stimulatory for sodium and calcium transport and which likely contains the antiporter transcript. The results of this study provide the basis for using 22Na+ and 45Ca2+ transport assays of lobster mRNA‐injected oocytes to functionally screen an hepatopancreatic cDNA library for clones that will provide full length nucleotide and amino acid sequences of the invertebrate electrogenic 2Na+/1H+ antiporter protein. J. Exp. Zool. 290:347–358, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Sexual differentiation of germ cell deficient gonads in the medaka, Oryzias latipes
Authors: Shinomiya Ai , Hamaguchi Satoshi , Shibata Naoki
Published: August 2002

To determine whether germ cells perform any function in gonadal sexual differentiation, development of gonads in the medaka, Oryzias latipes, after exposure to busulfan was investigated. Busulfan suppressed proliferation of early germ cells, thus significantly reducing the number of germ cells and generating regions without germ cells in the developing gonads. Globular structures were observed in the parenchyma in these regions. The structure was male specific, developed at the same time as acinus (seminiferous tubule precursor), surrounded by the basal lamina, and contained characteristic desmosomes. These results strongly suggest that these globular structures are the precursors of seminiferous tubules devoid of germ cells. In the ovary, no follicles were observed but a well‐developed ovarian cavity was evident. From these results we conclude that differentiation of gonadal parenchyma cells, except for follicular ones, is not germ cell dependent, though morphological differentiation of the somatic cells seems to follow the differentiation of germ cells. J. Exp. Zool. 290:402–410, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
On graphs whose line graphs have crossing number one*
Authors: Jendrol' Stanislav , Kles̆c̆ Marián
Published: August 2002

Necessary and sufficient conditions are given for a nonplanar graph to have a line graph with crossing number one. This corrects some errors in Kulli et al. 4. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Graph Theory 37: 181–188, 2001
Note on a min‐max conjecture of Woodall
Authors: Lee Orlando , Wakabayashi Yoshiko
Published: August 2002

In 1978 Woodall [6] conjectured the following: in a planar digraph the size of a shortest cycle is equal to the maximum cardinality of a collection of disjoint tranversals of cycles. We prove that this conjecture is true when the digraph is series‐parallel. In fact, we prove a stronger weighted version that gives the latter result as a corollary. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Graph Theory 38: 36–41, 2001
Regional co‐operation policies in Central Asia
Authors: Green David Jay
Published: August 2002

This paper discusses the need for a set of policies encouraging economic co‐operation within the former Soviet Union states of Central Asia.

Central Asia is the focus of this report; however, the argument emphasizing the need for international assistance to support regional cooperation is valid for the countries of the Caucuses and in some of Eastern Europe, especially the Balkan states.

Regional co‐operation is seen as a means to mitigate the difficulties of managing a transition from Soviet‐command economies to market‐based institutions given especially the extreme distances to industrialized marketplaces. Co‐operation will not be a natural consequence of existing tendencies that encourage a lack of trust and inward looking national policies. Policy commitments are needed to develop transport, trade and transit within and to the region from foreign markets. The international community must encourage economic cooperation that reduces cross‐border political insecurity and provides scope for sustainable economic growth. These efforts may require subsuming bilateral relations under coordinated regional programmes. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Does the source of financing matter? Financial markets, financial intermediaries and investment in India
Authors: Ganesh‐Kumar A. , Sen Kunal , Vaidya Rajendra R.
Published: August 2002

This paper extends the literature on finance and investment by examining the source of finance constraints on the firm's investment decisions. Using a panel of 714 Indian manufacturing firms for the period 1993–98, we find that the degree of ‘finance constraint’ differs significantly across external suppliers of funds with investments being most sensitive to borrowings from development finance institutions (DFIs) and considerably less sensitive to funds from capital markets and commercial banks. Capital markets and commercial banks seem to use outward orientation as a signal of the firm's ability to succeed whereas DFIs do not seem to have adopted such a criterion. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Radiosynthesis and PET studies of [11C]RJR‐2403, a nicotinic agonist
Authors: Studenov Andrei R. , Wegner Adam M. , Ding Yu‐Shin
Published: August 2002

(E)‐N‐methyl‐4‐(3‐pyridinyl)‐3‐butene‐1‐amine (RJR‐2403, or metanicotine), a nicotinic agonist developed as a cognitive‐enhancing drug for Alzheimer's disease, was labeled with carbon‐11 using [11C]methyl iodide via a simple and efficient one‐step procedure. Regioselectivity of [11C]methylation on the aliphatic nitrogen versus pyridine nitrogen is strongly dependent on the reaction solvent. The reaction in acetonitrile exclusively yields aliphatic N‐[11C‐methyl]alkylation ([11C]RJR‐2403), while only a byproduct is formed when DMF is used as a solvent. Positron emission tomographic (PET) studies in baboon showed a homogeneous distribution of radioactivity within baboon brain with a slow clearance. [11C]RJR‐2403 was metabolized very rapidly as evidenced by the fact that at 2 min after intravenous injection only 50% of the total carbon‐11 in plasma is parent compound. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
No‐carrier‐added, 18F‐labelling of a cholesterol derivative, used in detection of adrenal malignancies
Authors: Jalilian Amir Reza , Bineshmarvasti Maria , Rafii Hamid , Afarideh Hossein , Shafiee Abbas
Published: August 2002

[18F]Cholesteryl 4‐(fluoromethyl)benzoate 6b was prepared from 3‐cholesteryl [(4‐nitrobenzenesulfonyl)oxymethyl]benzoate in one step using K+‐Kryptofix 2.2.2, as counter ion and acetonitrile as the solvent at 40–60°C. The product was isolated by HPLC in 75% (decay corrected) radiochemical yield with a radiochemical purity of more than 90% in 30 min (specific radioactivity 2000–2500 Ci/mmol). Biodistribution studies in mice showed that a high target/non‐target ratio of radioactivity was obtained in adrenal and ovaries. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A new practical tritium labelling procedure using sodium borotritide and tetrakis(triphenylphosphine)palladium(0)
Authors: Nagasaki Tohru , Sakai Katsunori , Segawa Masaharu , Katsuyama Yoshihiko , Haga Nobuhiro , Koike Masahiro , Kawada Kenji , Takechi Shozo
Published: August 2002

A simple, mild and versatile new tritium (3H) labelling method on a micro scale using sodium borotritide (NaB3H4) and a transition–metal complex catalyst is described. 3H‐labelled compounds were prepared effectively by 3H hydrogenolysis of appendant functional groups in target compounds. The appendant functional group such as bromo, iodo or sulfonate in various target compounds can be replaced by tritium (3H) in moderate yields. The new method was established by optimization of the reaction conditions and examination of its applicability using four types of model substrates in tracer runs. Then, various drug candidates and ligands for drug discovery were labelled with tritium on a micro scale. The specific radioactivity of the 3H‐labelled compounds used for the studies on receptor binding ranged from 12 to 20 Ci/mmol. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis of morphine‐[N‐methyl‐14C]‐6‐β‐D‐glucuronide
Authors: Ferguson John R. , Hollis Stephen J. , Johnston Grant A. , Lumbard Keith W. , Stachulski Andrew V.
Published: August 2002

Protected morphine‐6‐glucuronide was converted into morphine‐[N‐methyl‐14C]‐6‐glucuronide by a three‐step procedure. Methyl (3‐pivaloylmorphin‐6‐yl 2,3,4‐tri‐O‐isobutyryl‐β‐D‐glucopyranosid)uronate was N‐demethylated by treatment with 1‐chloroethyl chloroformate to afford protected normorphine‐6‐glucuronide as its hydrochloride salt. The normorphine‐6‐glucuronide derivative was alkylated with iodomethane‐[14C] in the presence of potassium carbonate to produce C‐14 labelled protected morphine‐6‐glucuronide. Finally, hydrolysis of the protecting groups using 5% sodium hydroxide solution gave morphine‐[N‐methyl‐14C]‐6‐β‐D‐glucuronide with a specific activity of 41.8 mCi mmol−1 and radiochemical purity of 99.2% (HPLC). Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Relation between the outer cover of the egg case of Argiope aurantia (Araneae: Araneidae) and the emergence of its spiderlings
Authors: Foradori Matthew J. , Kovoor Jacqueline , Moon Myung‐Jin , Tillinghast Edward K.
Published: August 2002

To emerge from the egg case, Argiope aurantia spiderlings must penetrate a tightly woven outer cover composed primarily of large‐diameter cylindrical gland fibers and small‐diameter fibers, likely of aciniform gland origin. They accomplish this using enzymatic digestion and mastication to form a communal hole in the outer cover. The involvement of proteolytic enzymes in this process was demonstrated by zymography of spiderling homogenates and washes made from the edges of holes. The specific source(s) of the proteases is unknown, but histological examination of spiderling sections indicates that the digestive tract, venom glands, and gnathocoxal glands are all functioning at the time of emergence from the egg case. Observations on edges of holes indicate that spiderlings are able to solubilize the small‐diameter fibers completely, but cylindrical gland fibers only partially. In the outer cover, cylindrical fibers are composed of numerous fibrils embedded within a matrix. Spiderlings appear to be unable to solubilize the fibrils, but digestion of the matrix allows the spiderlings to push the fibrils aside to create the opening. J. Morphol. 252:218–226, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Exploration of sequence space for protein engineering
Authors: Gustafsson Claes , Govindarajan Sridhar , Emig Robin
Published: August 2002

The process of protein engineering is currently evolving towards a heuristic understanding of the sequence–function relationship. Improved DNA sequencing capacity, efficient protein function characterization and improved quality of data points in conjunction with well‐established statistical tools from other industries are changing the protein engineering field. Algorithms capturing the heuristic sequence–function relationships will have a drastic impact on the field of protein engineering. In this review, several alternative approaches to quantitatively assess sequence space are discussed and the relatively few examples of wet‐lab validation of statistical sequence–function characterization/correlation are described. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Need for background suppression in contrast‐enhanced peripheral magnetic resonance angiography
Authors: Leiner Tim , de Weert Thomas T. , Nijenhuis Robbert J. , Vasbinder G. Boudewijn C. , Kessels Alphons G.H. , Ho Kai Yiu J.A.M. , van Engelshoven Jos M.A.
Published: August 2002

To determine if background suppression is beneficial for peripheral magnetic resonance angiography (pMRA), nonsubtracted, subtracted, and fat‐saturated contrast‐enhanced (CE) pMRA were compared in 10 patients with peripheral arterial disease. Signal‐to‐noise ratios (SNRs) and contrast‐to‐noise ratios (CNRs), as well as venous enhancement and subjective interpretability, were determined in a station‐by‐station fashion for each technique. In three patients X‐ray angiography was available as a standard of reference. SNRs and CNRs were significantly higher for fat‐saturated vs. the other two techniques (P = 0.005). Subjective interpretability was best for subtracted data sets in the lower‐leg station. In the iliac station, fat‐saturated data sets were considered to have significantly lower interpretability than subtracted data sets. Venous enhancement occurred significantly more often in the lower‐leg station with the fat‐saturated technique. The value of subtraction depends on the hardware one has available and is a useful tool if dedicated surface coils are used. Background suppression by means of magnitude subtraction leads to the best lower‐leg image interpretability. Care must be taken to avoid venous enhancement in the lower‐leg station when using fat saturation. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2001;14:724–733. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Imaging of finger joints in a whole‐body MR system using a simple and low‐cost solenoidal coil
Authors: Rumpel Helmut , Peh Wilfred C.G.
Published: August 2002

This work considers the design and operation of a solenoid radiofrequency (RF) coil for magnetic resonance (MR) mini‐imaging of finger joints using a whole‐body system. The considerations were focused on the requirements of high sensitivity, easy patient access, and cost‐effectiveness. The proposed design is a short, two‐turn solenoidal coil that accomplishes high spatial uniformity over a 2‐cm region of interest (ROI). The coil resembles an oversized ring, and easily fits fingers that are spread. An experimental demonstration of the proposed approach is given by imaging the proximal interphalangeal joint in healthy volunteers using a 2.5‐cm field of view (FOV). Spin‐echo and gradient‐recalled‐echo T1‐weighted sequences, and a 3D spoiled‐gradient‐echo sequence were used. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2001;14:800–802. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Magnetic resonance imaging of pulmonary parenchymal disease using a modified breath‐hold 3D gradient‐echo technique: Initial observations
Authors: Bader Till R. , Semelka Richard C. , Pedro Monica S. , Armao Diane M. , Brown Mark A. , Molina Paul L.
Published: August 2002

Purpose

To determine the potential of a modified breath‐hold 3D gradient‐echo technique for visualizing pulmonary parenchymal diseases.

Materials and Methods

Twenty‐one magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies of the lungs were performed in 20 patients (15 male and 5 female; age range, 7.7–86.1 years) with pulmonary diseases comprising non‐small‐cell, small‐cell, and bronchioalveolar carcinomas, endobronchial mucoepidermoid carcinoma, metastases, pneumonia, Wegener's granulomatosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, arterio‐venous malformation, and bronchogenic cyst. Confirmation of diagnoses was obtained via histopathology (14 patients) and follow‐up (6 patients). MRI studies were performed at 1.5 T before and after administration of gadolinium using a modified volumetric interpolated breath‐hold examination (VIBE) sequence. All images were evaluated prospectively regarding lesion detection and characterization. MR findings were correlated with final diagnoses. Retrospective grading (scores, 1–4) was performed for general image quality (rated “poor” to “excellent”); presence of artifacts (“negligible” to “severe”); and imaging quality of pulmonary lesions (conspicuity and contrast on pre‐ and postgadolinium images).

Results

Twenty‐three solid pulmonary lesions, 25 infiltrates and segmental atelectases, and 1 cyst were detected and prospectively correctly diagnosed. Sizes ranged from 0.3–10 cm. The mean scores for image quality and presence of artifacts were 3.3 (SD, 0.7) and 1.8 (SD, 0.7), respectively. Conspicuity and contrast of pulmonary lesions received mean scores between 3.0 and 3.8 (SD, 0.4–0.7).

Conclusion

This MRI technique allows imaging of a wide spectrum of solid and nonsolid pulmonary parenchymal diseases with reproducible high image quality, effective suppression of artifacts, high resolution, and visualization of gadolinium enhancement. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2002;15:31–38. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.