bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thoracoscopic Visualization and Ligation of the Thoracic Duct in Dogs
Authors: Radlinsky Maryann G. , Mason Diane E. , Biller David S. , Olsen Dennis
Published: August 2002

Objective—To develop a technique for thoracoscopic visualization and ligation of the thoracic duct in dogs.

Study design—In vivo experimental study.

Animals—Five mature, healthy dogs.

Methods—Dogs were normal based on physical examination, negative occult heartworm test, normal complete blood count and biochemical profile, and normal thoracic radiographs. The dogs were anesthetized, and a ventral midline laparotomy was performed for catheterization of a mesenteric lymphatic. Lymphangiography was performed to determine thoracic duct anatomy. Thoracoscopy was performed in the caudal, right hemithorax after single lung intubation or bronchial blockade. At least two 10‐mm clips were placed across the thoracic duct in each dog. Lymphangiography was repeated to assess duct ligation. If complete duct occlusion was not achieved, thoracoscopy was repeated for additional clip placement. After surgery the dogs were euthanatized, and necropsies were performed.

Results—Lymphangiography showed that multiple branches of the thoracic duct were present in every dog; bilateral thoracic duct branches were most common. Thoracoscopic identification and ligation of the thoracic duct was successful in all five dogs. Two dogs required a second thoracoscopic procedure to completely occlude flow of contrast through the thoracic duct. Surgery time for thoracoscopy averaged 59 ± 9.6 minutes. Retroperitoneal contrast accumulation after thoracic duct ligation occurred in two dogs. One dog required bilateral pulmonary ventilation.

Conclusion—Thoracoscopy can be used to visualize the thoracic duct for ligation in normal dogs.

Clinical relevance—Thoracoscopic ligation of the thoracic duct may be a therapeutic option for management of chylothorax in dogs.
Effects of 25% Propylene Glycol Hydrogel (Solugel) on Second Intention Wound Healing in Horses
Authors: Dart Andrew J. , Cries Lucile , Jeffcott Leo B. , Hodgson David R. , Rose Reuben J.
Published: August 2002

Objective—To evaluate the effect of a commercially available 25% propylene glycol hydrogel preparation (Solugel; Johnson and Johnson Medical, North Ryde, Australia) on healing of full‐thickness skin wounds on the distal aspect of the limb in horses.

Study design—Experimental.

Animals—Eight Standardbred horses.

Methods—Standardized (2.5 × 2.5 cm) full‐thickness skin wounds were created over the mid‐dorsomedial aspect of both metacarpi in 8 horses. One wound in each horse was dressed with saline solution (0.9% NaCl) soaked gauze, and one was treated with Solugel under dry regular gauze; wounds were then bandaged with gauze‐coated cotton wool and elastic adhesive bandages. Wounds were videorecorded and rebandaged twice weekly until healed. Wound healing variables were measured from the videorecordings using a computer software package and analyzed as a randomized complete block design with repeated measures. Where necessary variables were made positive for analysis; significance was set atP< .05.

Results—The area of the wound at the first bandage change did not vary between treated and untreated wounds. Treatment had no effect on the total rate of healing, rate of healing during the retraction phase of healing, rate of healing after the retraction phase was complete, or the amount the wounds retracted.

Conclusions—Using this model of wound healing, Solugel had no effect on second intention healing of distal limb wounds in horses.

Clinical relevance—Solugel does not appear to have any beneficial effect on healing of small full‐thickness skin wounds to the distal limb of horses.
The Effect of Recombinant Equine Growth Hormone on the Biomechanical Properties of Healing Superficial Digital Flexor Tendons in Horses
Authors: Dowling Bradley A. , Dart Andrew J. , Hodgson David R. , Rose Reuben J. , Walsh William R.
Published: August 2002

Objective—To evaluate the effect of recombinant equine growth hormone (rEGH) on the in vitro biomechanical properties of healing superficial digital flexor tendon (SDFT) in horses.

Study design—Completely randomized design.

Sample population—Twelve Standardbred horses, 3 to 7 years of age, with ultrasonographically normal forelimb SDFT.

Methods—One week after induction of collagenase (2,000 U) induced superficial flexor tendonitis, horses were randomly divided into groups of 6. One group was administered intramuscular rEGH (10 μg/kg/day for 1 week, then 20 μg/kg/day for 5 weeks), whereas the other group (control subjects) were administered an equivalent volume of saline (0.9% NaCl) solution. At the end of this 6‐week treatment, horses were killed and one forelimb SDFT from each horse was harvested for biomechanical testing under uniaxial tension. Results were analyzed using an unpaired Student'sttest; significance was set atP≤ .05.

Results—SDFT from horses treated with rEGH had significantly larger mean cross‐sectional areas and lower mean values for ultimate and yield tensile stress, whereas tendons from the control group were biomechanically stiffer than those from the rEGH‐treated horses.

Conclusions—Administration of rEGH to horses for 6 weeks, 1 week after collagenase induced injury to the SDFT, resulted in a significant increase in tendon cross‐sectional area, a concomitant reduction in ultimate and yield tensile stress, and reduced tendon stiffness.

Clinical relevance—Using this model of tendonitis, rEGH had a negative effect on the biomechanical properties of equine SDFT in the early phases of healing. Based on our results, administration of rEGH to treat superficial flexor tendonitis cannot be recommended.
The Effect of Nephrotomy on Renal Function and Morphology in Dogs
Authors: Stone Elizabeth Arnold , Robertson John L. , Metcalf Michael R.
Published: August 2002

Objective— To determine whether bisection or intersegmental nephrotomy adversely affects glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and whether bisection nephrotomy has less adverse effect than intersegmental nephrotomy.

Study design— Dogs assigned to 5 groups of 3 dogs each, depending on time of euthanasia at postoperative day 1, 4, 8, 15, or 29.

Animals— Fifteen healthy adult intact female dogs.

Methods— Within 4 days of total and single kidney GFR measurements using technetium Tc 99m‐DTPA, left intersegmental nephrotomy and right bisection nephrotomy were performed. The GFR measurements were repeated the day before dogs were killed except for the day 1 group. Histologic examination was performed on kidneys harvested from day 1, 4, 8, and 29 groups. Severity of lesions was scored on a 0 to 4 scale. Single kidney GFR was compared in each kidney before and after nephrotomy. Histologic and GFR changes were compared between bisection and intersegmental nephrotomy kidneys for each time period.

Results and Conclusions— Three days after surgery, total GFR was increased from baseline by 176%, with no difference in percent change in single kidney GFR between intersegmental and bisection nephrotomy. By day 7, total and single kidney GFR were not different than baseline. Bisection nephrotomy caused more intrarenal hemorrhage and cortical infarction and inflammation than intersegmental nephrotomy. By 4 weeks, no significant histologic differences were observed between the 2 techniques.

Clinical relevance— Neither intersegmental nor bisection nephrotomy adversely affected GFR. As intersegmental nephrotomy requires additional surgical manipulation and time, bisection nephrotomy is the technique of choice for nephrotomy in dogs.
Synovial Regeneration in the Equine Carpus after Arthroscopic Mechanical or Carbon Dioxide Laser Synovectomy
Authors: Doyle‐Jones Patricia S. , Sullins Kenneth E. , Saunders Geoffrey K.
Published: August 2002

Objective—To compare synovial regeneration in the equine carpus after mechanical or CO2laser synovectomy.

Study design—Arthroscopic partial synovectomy was performed in the radiocarpal and intercarpal joints.

Sample population—Twelve horses, 3 to 6 years of age, were randomly divided into 3 groups.

Methods—The antebrachiocarpal and intercarpal joints in each horse were randomly assigned a treatment such that each horse had one joint treated as a control (arthroscopic lavage), one in which a mechanical or CO2laser partial dorsal carpal synovectomy was performed, and one in which a combination of the mechanical and laser techniques was performed. The groups were euthanized for collection of specimens, respectively, at 1, 3, and 6 months postoperatively. The synovial membrane was evaluated grossly, histologically, and by transmission and scanning electron microscopes (TEM and SEM).

Results—The synovial villi failed to regenerate in all groups. At 1 month, the intimal cell layer was incomplete and the surface was still granulating. At 3 months, intimal regeneration was complete but more mature in the CO2laser synovectomy groups than in the mechanical synovectomy groups. Intimal regeneration was complete in all groups at 6 months. The subintima was replaced with fibrous tissue that separated the original subintimal vascular bed from the regenerated synovial surface. The CO2laser required preliminary training to operate effectively, and the air environment altered the intraoperative evaluation of the synovectomy site.

Conclusions—Villous regeneration does not occur in horses after surgical synovectomy. All synovial membranes healed with a fibrous subintima and less populated intima. The CO2laser is capable of performing a more superficial synovectomy than that achieved with mechanical synovectomy using a motorized arthroscopic synovial resector.

Clinical relevance—Mechanical or CO2laser synovectomy may be performed in the horse; however, additional evaluation is needed to determine the physiological significance of the lack of villus regeneration in this species. A combination of the resection techniques is not advised because of the increased risk of full‐thickness capsular defects.
How to think about the `anti-science' phenomenon
Authors: Holton Gerald
Published: August 2002

Opposition to science as conventionally defined can take a great variety of forms, from interest in astrology to attacks on relativity theory, from false beliefs based on scientific illiteracy to support of Lysenkoism or Creationism. Which of these are relatively negligible, and which are potentially dangerous? What do these symptoms of disaffection with the Enlightenment-based tradition portend, for science and culture in our time?

Here I present a framework to deal with these questions. It is based on the proposition that belief in anti-science (or `alternative science', `parascience') is grounded in a person's functional worldview, and is one symptom of a long-standing struggle over the legitimacy of the authority of conventional science, as well as the concept of modernity within which science claims to be embedded.

This analysis leads finally to the identification of a set of strategies for dealing with the countervisions which periodically attempt to raise themselves from the level of apparent harmlessness to that of politically ambitious success.
Measuring scientific interest: the effect of knowledge questions on interest ratings
Authors: Gaskell George , Wright Daniel , O'Muircheartaigh Colm
Published: August 2002

Research into the publics' interest in, knowledge of and attitudes towards science has captured the attention of politicians and educators. Sample survey research has been employed to assess the diverse aspects of the public understanding of science. However, surveys are subject to various biases that may affect the findings, calling into question both the reliability and the validity of the measures concerned. In this study we look at one common bias—that of context effects. Context effects occur when a question influences responses to later questions. The effects of answering one of four different sets of science questions (physical or life science, and easy or difficult questions) on what people report as their interest in science and what they think science is, were investigated using a split ballot format ( n = 2099). Two approaches from social psychology, framing and consistency, are used to predict the effects of these knowledge questions on subsequent responses. Context effects were found and were more in line with the framing explanation. The results signal the need for caution in interpreting findings from surveys of the public understanding of science.
Science, media and culture: British magazines, 1890-1914
Authors: Broks Peter
Published: August 2002

The development of a `critical' approach in media studies has shifted attention from media `effects' to problems of signification, meaning and consent. Drawing upon work within cultural and media studies this paper examines the science content of British family magazines at the turn of the century. By so doing it places due emphasis upon the cultural context within which popular science was constructed, and reverses the traditional perspective on popular science—that is, looking for science in what was popular rather than for popularity in what was science. A survey of magazines provides evidence of a changing mentality—a shift from Victorian optimism to Edwardian disillusion. The amount of editorial space given over to science fell, with less emphasis on triumphalist technology and more on fears of racial degeneration and a return to nature. These issues bring the paper to a consideration of the `Edwardian crisis' brought on by a contracting economy and the perception of Imperial decline.
Fabricating scientific success stories
Authors: Felt Ulrike
Published: August 2002

By the end of the 1980s science stories had once again taken on the positive tone of the 1960s. Based empirically on the discovery of high-temperature superconductivity which occurred in the IBM laboratory in Zurich in 1986. this paper presents a detailed comparative analysis of how the press reported in both the US and German-speaking countries. In the American press a strong story full of fancy details was developed over a long period of time. showing clearly the importance of national context for the creation of a public image of science. The paper identifies the six major ingredients which, in the US case, allowed the construction of this scientific success story: political and economic interest; the flair of `little' science; the presence of hero scientists; the possibility of staging an international race; the absence of obvious risk; and, finally, the story's role as a counterbalance to political dissatisfaction. The more of these conditions that are relevant in a particular national context, the easier it is to sustain the story over a longer period of time, and thus to shape a positive public image of this research.
Alar and apples: newspapers, risk and media responsibility
Authors: Friedman Sharon M. , Villamil Kara , Suriano Robyn A. , Egolf Brenda P.
Published: August 2002

During 1989, a major environmental and health risk issue, the spraying of Alar on apples, created a furor among the American people. After hearing charges from the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) that eating Alar-laden apples significantly increased a child's risk of developing cancer, numbers of school districts dropped apples from their menus and parents poured apple juice down the drains. Apple sales plummeted. The NRDC's charges, which were disseminated by a well-planned and effective public relations campaign, brought counter-charges from the US Environmental Protection Agency, which accused the NRDC of basing its study on poor data, among other things. The core of the dispute was in the risk figures and risk interpretations being used by each organization.

This study reviewed coverage in 13 newspapers during 1989 of the Alar issue. It found good and bad aspects, but little to support the degree of criticism applied by many people to media coverage of Alar. The 13 newspapers produced a total of 297 articles during the year and were not sensational in their approach. Many played the story in the prime news sections, alerting people to possible problems as suggested in most interpretations of media responsibility. Many articles also included a large number of sources and gave the apple industry a prominent voice. More problematic was their treatment of the Alar story as a hard news event, with short, superficial articles that lacked detailed analysis of the central part of the controversy—the risk issues. Four newspapers from apple-growing regions provided generally better coverage of the issue than did those from non-apple regions.

The Alar issue has become a major landmark in media coverage of risk. The coverage had great economic and other repercussions that still continue. These newspapers would have been more responsible had they made health risk information more central in their coverage. Instead, reporters covered the conflict itself instead of the science behind the conflict. The study suggests a new model of risk reporting to better serve readers and viewers.
Issues in agricultural and environmental biotechnology: identifying and comparing biotechnology issues from public opinion surveys, the popular press and technical/regulatory sources
Authors: Hagedorn Charles , Allender-Hagedorn Susan
Published: August 2002

The formation of public perceptions of science is a very complex and problematic process, but a major factor is the information that is available and presented most frequently to the public. Issues of public concern over agricultural and environmental biotechnology were identified from opinion surveys, the popular press and technical/regulatory sources. A frequency index based on content analysis was used to rank issues within categories of genetically engineered foods, plants, animals and microorganisms; and the social/legal, risk assessment/regulation, science education and international aspects. These issues were compared to those similarly identified from scientific/regulatory sources. Results revealed that the scientific/regulatory communities have dealt primarily with one subset of issues (research oriented), while the public is largely concerned with a different subset (issues of ethics, safety and value). This paper describes each issue in detail, and the implications of the two subsets of issues are briefly discussed.
How to keep out what we don't want: an assessment of `Sozialverträglichkeit' under the Austrian Genetic Engineering Act
Authors: Seifert Franz , Torgersen Helge
Published: August 2002

National regulations for new science and engineering projects are often drawn up on foundations that refer to the current `state of the art'. However, this approach suffers from the fundamental problem, among others, that science progresses quickly, and models for the development of science have only limited predictive ability. Assessing the risk associated with a project therefore becomes a complex problem; and so non-scientific criteria can not be excluded from the decision-making process. An example of such non-technical criteria can be found in Austrian regulations on genetic engineering where: `products containing or consisting of genetically engineered organisms must not create any “ Soziale Unverträglichkeit” [social unsustainability], no `unbalanced burden on society or social groups' that is unacceptable for economic, social or moral reasons.' The aim of this paper is to investigate the implications of this provision. The paper begins with a discussion of the fundamental issues of regulating genetic engineering at a national level, then examines the evolution of the Austrian Genetic Engineering Act, and critically assesses the term ` Sozialverträglichkeit'. Having examined various mechanisms whereby non-scientific criteria can be included in the decision-making process, the paper argues that Sozialverträglichkeit can be interpreted as a constructive answer to the problems of a risk society.
Deconstructing action competence: developing a case for a more scientifically-attentive environmental education
Authors: Bishop Keith , Scott William
Published: August 2002

Environmental education tends to be characterized by a rhetoric of action-taking, and the call for the development of personal action competence is one manifestation of this. This paper critically examines recent work on the concept of action competence. This is seen as a set of capabilities which equip people with the ability to take purposive and focused action, and which embodies a democratic commitment to be participants in the continuing shaping of society—on their own terms and in their own ways. Action competence is seen by some as a crucial outcome for environmental education because it brings together the processes and practices of education with the need to develop democratic citizenship skills and values, and with the nature of the ecological, social and environmental crises facing the world. This paper acknowledges the contribution such concepts make to environmental education, but takes issue with a tendency within action competence to undervalue the place of science in the construction of knowledge and understanding of environmental issues. We argue that, despíte being dismissed by many environmental educators, science has a significant role to play within effective environmental education, particularly through the achievement of scientific literacy and capability, both of which seem fundamental to an understanding of science, environmental issues, and their interrelationship. The paper argues for a more pragmatic conceptualization of action competence in order to encourage broadly-based and scientifically-attentive conceptions of environmental education.
Between citizen and consumer: multiplying the meanings of the “public understanding of science”
Authors: Michael Mike
Published: August 2002

This paper explores how the “public understanding of science” might be reconceptualized in light of the recent sociological treatments of consumption. I consider the implications that the rise of consumer culture and the increasing aesthetisization of everyday life have for micro-and macro-sociological studies in the public understanding of science. In particular, I examine how consumer culture impacts upon the status of the “lay local” and the nature of citizenship as they relate to the public understanding of science and scientific literacy. Further, I explore how the discourses and techniques of public understanding of science studies might contribute to the formulation of the lay person as consumer. Finally; in light of these points, I formulate a number of research questions that might enable the development of the “public understanding of science.”
Public representations of scientific uncertainty about global climate change
Authors: Zehr Stephen C.
Published: August 2002

This paper addresses the representation of scientific uncertainty about global warming and climate change in the U.S. popular press. An examination of popular press articles about global warming from 1986 to 1995 reveals that scientific uncertainty was a salient theme. The paper describes several forms of uncertainty construction and means through which it was managed. I argue that scientific uncertainty was used to help construct an exclusionary boundary between “the public” and climate change scientists. This rhetorical boundary delegitimated lay knowledge by suggesting that the public did not hold appropriate reverence for scientific uncertainty and the need for more research.
Risks of communication: discourses on climate change in science, politics, and the mass media
Authors: Weingart Peter , Engels Anita , Pansegrau Petra
Published: August 2002

This paper summarizes the results of a research project analyzing communication about global warming among those in the fields of science, politics, and the media in Germany between 1975 and 1995. The methodology of discourse analysis has been applied to investigate the changing perceptions of climate change over time and the ways in which it became an important issue on Germany's political agenda. The first part of the paper will briefly introduce the underlying theoretical assumptions and explain the multiple steps by which data covering a period of two decades have been collected and analyzed. In the second part, the paper will provide the reader with the main research results, indicating the usefulness of distinguishing among the separate discourses on climate change in science, politics, and the mass media. The results suggest that there are specific discourse dynamics common to each of the three spheres, as well as some important disparities among them. These findings will be illustrated by a selection of examples typical of the samples analyzed. Finally, the third part of the paper will discuss the broader theoretical and practical implications of these results, which suggest that modern societies must cope not only with environmental risks but also with the risks inherent in communication.
Effects of trait anger and anger expression style on competitive attack responses in a wartime prisoner’s dilemma game
Authors: Kassinove Howard , Roth David , Owens Shane Gregory , Fuller J. Ryan
Published: August 2002

We assessed the role of trait anger and anger expression style on competitive/aggressive decision making and responding. In a 100‐trial iterated Prisoner’s Dilemma (IPD), with instructions to simulate wartime interactions, competition/aggression was defined as “attacking the opponent,” and “waiting for troop reinforcements” was the noncompetitive alternative response. Prior to play, 92 university student players completed the State‐Trait Anger Expression Inventory. They were then paired to play the IPD against partners of similar or dissimilar trait anger levels. At postplay, the State Anger scale was readministered. Results showed significant preplay to postplay increases in state anger, with greater increases shown by high trait anger players. Thus, high trait anger players were especially subject to arousal. Players in the high trait anger group made more competitive/attack responses, and they were more likely to do so when paired with a high trait anger partner. As a result of the high level of competitive/aggressive play, both groups ended with a negative troop count. Trait anger as a general personality temperament was predictive of state anger, competitive/attack responses, and the number of trials before a retaliation was made. The expressive style of anger‐control was also related to manner of play. Trait anger had strong direct and indirect effects through anger control on the number of competitive attack responses. It was concluded that trait anger, especially trait anger/temperament, and anger control difficulties may be toxic personality factors in decision making and competitive behavior. Aggr. Behav. 28:117–125, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Hypersensitivity of megakaryocyte progenitors to thrombopoietin in essential thrombocythemia
Authors: Kawasaki Hirohide , Nakano Takahide , Kohdera Urara , Kobayashi Yohnosuke
Published: August 2002

Essential thrombocythemia (ET) is a clonal myeloproliferative disorder characterized by an elevation of platelets in peripheral blood and excessive proliferation of megakaryocytes in bone marrow. The pathological mechanisms for the elevation of megakaryocytes and platelets in ET remain unclear. To study the hypersensitivity of megakaryocyte progenitors to thrombopoietin (TPO), a 9‐year‐old girl, diagnosed with ET, underwent dose‐response experiments with recombinant human TPO, using her bone marrow non‐adherent mononuclear cells and CD34 positive cells. Spontaneous colony‐forming unit‐megakaryocytes (CFU‐Meg) were observed in serum‐deprived cultures of non‐adherent mononuclear cells, whereas they disappeared in cultures of CD34 positive cells. The patient's CFU‐Meg showed maximal growth at concentrations of TPO lower than those for normal children. Dose‐response curves demonstrated a 50–80 fold increase in sensitivity of the patient's CFU‐Meg to TPO. We observed hypersensitivity of megakaryocyte progenitors to TPO in a child with ET. Our results suggest that spontaneous CFU‐Meg formation in patients with ET may be due to hypersensitivity to TPO. Am. J. Hematol. 68:194–197, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Neural tube defects in missed abortions: embryoscopic and cytogenetic findings
Authors: Philipp Tom , Kalousek Dagmar K.
Published: August 2002

Transcervical embryoscopy, a new technique for direct visualization of the first trimester conceptus was carried out in 116 cases of missed abortion. Embryonic neural tube defects and other localized developmental defects, were diagnosed in 10 out of 99 cases in which a complete embryoscopic evaluation was possible. All eight successfully karyotyped cases had a numerical chromosomal abnormality. A ninth unkaryotyped embryo with open spina bifida showed, on embryoscopy, a malformation pattern highly suggestive of triploidy. Our embryoscopic and cytogenetic findings provide valuable information for genetic counseling in future pregnancies. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Wiedemann‐Beckwith syndrome: Further prenatal characterization of the condition
Authors: Reish Orit , Lerer Israela , Amiel Aliza , Heyman Eli , Herman Arie , Dolfin Tzipora , Abeliovich Dvorah
Published: August 2002

We describe three unrelated cases of Wiedemann‐Beckwith syndrome (WBS). Two of them were diagnosed postnatally while the third was detected during pregnancy that resulted in elective termination. Amniotic karyotypes were normal in all. PCR amplification of polymorphic loci mapping to 11p15.5 region documented partial trisomy of 11p15.5 due to paternal translocation in one, and segmental and mosaic segmental unipaternal disomy (UPD) in the second and third cases, respectively. Based on findings documented in these cases and the literature, we tabulated the anomalies that might be detected prenatally by ultrasound and that may suggest the syndrome. Constant findings included fetal overgrowth, polyhydramios, enlarged placenta, and specifically a distended abdomen. As most described signs developed after 22 weeks of gestation, a careful follow‐up should be carried on until late stages of pregnancy. An amniotic karyotype might not detect subtle chromosomal rearrangements. We therefore recommend utilizing PCR of polymorphic loci on 11p15.5, in addition to conventional cytogenetic analysis of the fetus and both parents to detect possible maternal deletions or inversions, paternal duplications, and UPD that may account for the largest subset of sporadic WBS reaching 25% of cases. An early diagnosis of WBS is important for counseling the parents concerning potential risk for developing embryonic tumors, selection of the mode of delivery due to potential adrenal cysts that might bleed during labor, and prevention of neonatal hypoglycemia. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Reduced size of the amygdala in individuals with 47,XXY and 47,XXX karyotypes
Authors: Patwardhan Anil J. , Brown Wendy E. , Bender Bruce G. , Linden Mary G. , Eliez Stephan , Reiss Allan L.
Published: August 2002

The excess of 47,XXX and 47,XXY karyotypes found in cytogenetic screening studies of individuals with schizophrenia has given support for an increased risk of psychiatric illness among men and women with sex chromosomal aneuploidy (SCA). Mesial temporal lobe structures, including the amygdala and hippocampus, are thought to be associated with abnormalities of mood and behavior in humans and in the neurobiology of schizophrenia. This study focuses on variations in volumes of mesial temporal lobe structures in men and women with SCA. Utilizing an unselected birth cohort of subjects with SCA and high‐resolution magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), we investigated the neuroanatomical consequences of a supernumerary X chromosome on the morphology of the amygdala and hippocampus. Regional and total brain volumes were measured in 10 subjects with 47,XXY, 10 subjects with 47,XXX, and 20 euploid controls. Amygdala volumes were significantly reduced in men with 47,XXY, compared to control men, while the decrease in women with 47,XXX was not as pronounced. Hippocampus volumes were preserved in both groups, compared to same‐gender controls. Longitudinal studies of SCA individuals have shown an increased incidence of mild psychopathology and behavioral dysfunction in men with 47,XXY and more overt psychiatric illness in women with 47,XXX, compared to control populations. The alteration in amygdala volumes in individuals with a supernumerary X chromosome may provide a neuroanatomic basis for these findings. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Combination of diaphragmatic eventration and microphthalmia/anophthalmia is probably nonrandom
Authors: Steiner Robert D. , Dignan Peter St. J. , Hopkin Robert J. , Kozielski Rafal , Bove Kevin E.
Published: August 2002

Two sporadic cases of eventration of the diaphragm are reported; one had bilateral colobomatous microphthalmia and the other had anophthalmia. Absence of polydactyly and presence of eventration rather than diaphragmatic hernia helped to exclude Fryns syndrome. These cases together with published cases with overlapping features support the thesis that this combination of defects is nonrandom and of heterogeneous cause. Some cases are due to a pleiotropic gene defect. In other cases, a polytypic developmental field involving an unknown developmental cascade common to the eye and diaphragm may provide a basis for the combination. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Autosomal dominant sensory/motor neuropathy with Ataxia (SMNA): Linkage to chromosome 7q22‐q32
Authors: Brkanac Zoran , Fernandez Magali , Matsushita Mark , Lipe Hilary , Wolff John , Bird Thomas D. , Raskind Wendy H.
Published: August 2002

The autosomal dominant (AD) spinocerebellar ataxias (SCAs) and hereditary sensory neuropathies (HSN) are heterogeneous disorders characterized by variable clinical, electrophysiological, and neuropathological profiles. The SCAs are clinically characterized by slowly progressive incoordination of gait often associated with poor coordination of hands, speech, and eyes. Peripheral neuropathy is not a frequent part of the SCA syndrome. In contrast, the HSNs are primarily characterized by progressive sensory loss. There is substantial clinical overlap between the various SCAs and the various HSNs, and they often cannot be differentiated on the basis of clinical or neuro‐imaging studies. We have identified a five‐generation American family of Irish ancestry with a unique neurological disorder displaying an AD pattern of inheritance. There was variable expressivity and severity of symptoms including sensory loss, ataxia, pyramidal tract signs, and muscle weakness. Nerve conduction studies were consistent with a sensory axonal neuropathy. Muscle biopsy revealed neurogenic atrophy and brain MRI showed mild cerebellar atrophy. To identify the responsible locus we pursued a whole genome linkage analysis. After analyzing 114 markers, linkage to D7S486 was detected with a two point LOD score of 4.79 at θ = 0.00. Evaluation of additional markers in the region provided a maximum LOD score of 6.36 at θ = 0.00 for marker D7S2554. Haplotype analysis delimited an approximately 14‐cM region at 7q22‐q32 between markers D7S2418 and D7S1804 cosegregating with the disease. Because this disorder does not easily fall into either the SCA or HSN categories, it is designated sensory/motor neuropathy with ataxia (SMNA). © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Group size and structure in western lowland gorillas (Gorilla gorilla gorilla) at Mbeli Bai, Republic of Congo
Authors: Parnell Richard J.
Published: August 2002

This paper describes the size and structure of western lowland gorilla groups visiting Mbeli Bai, a swampy forest clearing in northern Congo. An observation platform at the edge of the clearing was used over a 3‐yr period, with gorillas visible for 1,681 hr. Data are presented on 14 groups and seven solitary males. Mean group size (excluding solitary males) was 8.4 ± SD 4.3, and did not differ significantly from most other gorilla studies. All groups at Mbeli contained only one fully mature male and did not show evidence of fission‐fusion or regular subgrouping. All emigrating males that remained in the population became solitary, and “bachelor” groups were not observed. Methodological issues are raised, including the classification of multi‐male groups, and the demographic profiles of other populations are discussed in the light of results from Mbeli. Am. J. Primatol. 56:193–206, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Genetics and caging type affect birth weight in captive pigtailed macaques (Macaca nemestrina)
Authors: Ha James C. , Ha Renee Robinette , Almasy Laura , Dyke Bennett
Published: August 2002

The heritability of birth weight was estimated in 3,562 captive pigtailed macaques using 30 years of breeding and pedigree records. Based on a pedigree of over 12,000 animals, quantitative genetic analyses were performed using statistical variance decomposition methods. The model included additive genetic effects, cytoplasmic genetic effects, birth environment, shared maternal environment, and unmeasured environmental effects. The results demonstrated a strong (h2 = 0.51) heritable component of birth weight overall, and included significant additive genetic heritability (h2 = 0.23), and cytoplasmic heritability (h2 = 0.09). In addition, a significant effect of birth location and cage type was identified, explaining an additional 6% of birth weight variance. The use of a nonhuman primate model for studying the effects of genes on birth weight eliminated many of the problems associated with confounding variables in human studies, and allowed for the quantification of a heritable component of birth weight. Am. J. Primatol. 56:207–213, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Social “status” and biological “status”: A comparison of grave goods and skeletal indicators from Pontecagnano
Authors: Robb John , Bigazzi Renzo , Lazzarini Luca , Scarsini Caterina , Sonego Fiorenza
Published: August 2002

Comparison of funerary treatment and skeletal biology can be very informative about the interplay of social status and meanings and actual life conditions in ancient communities, but such comparison is rarely done, due in part to the disciplinary separation of bioanthropology and social archaeology in many archaeological traditions. In this paper, we analyze relations between skeletal pathologies and grave goods in a sample of 94 individuals from Pontecagnano (Salerno, Italy, seventh–third centuries BC). The results show that the relationship between health, activity, and social status as expressed in grave goods was complex. Some biological indicators considered typical of “stress” or biological status (enamel hypoplasia, cribra orbitalia, adult stature) bore no relation to social status. Other indicators, particularly those of activity and stress in adult life (trauma, Schmorl's nodes, periostitis), covaried with grave assemblage and help to outline a possible division of labor. As this analysis shows, when skeletal and archaeological data are used in conjunction, the result is a deeper picture of the social and economic life of the community than can be obtained from either source. Am J Phys Anthropol 115:213–222, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Homocysteine, silent brain infarcts, and white matter lesions: The Rotterdam scan study
Authors: Vermeer Sarah E. , Van Dijk Ewoud J. , Koudstaal Peter J. , Oudkerk Matthijs , Hofman Albert , Clarke Robert , Breteler Monique M.B.
Published: August 2002

Silent brain infarcts and white matter lesions are frequently seen on magnetic resonance imaging in healthy elderly people and both are associated with an increased risk of stroke and dementia. Plasma total homocysteine may be a potentially modifiable risk factor for stroke and dementia. We examined whether elevated total homocysteine levels are associated with silent brain infarcts and white matter lesions. The Rotterdam Scan Study is a population‐based study of 1,077 people aged 60 to 90 years who had cerebral magnetic resonance imaging. The cross‐sectional relation of total homocysteine with silent infarcts and white matter lesions was analyzed with adjustment for cardiovascular risk factors. The mean plasma total homocysteine level was 11.5μmol/l (standard deviation 4.1). The risk of silent brain infarcts increased with increasing total homocysteine levels (odds ratio 1.24/standard deviation increase, 95% confidence interval 1.06–1.45). The severity of periventricular white matter lesions and extent of subcortical white matter lesions were also significantly associated with total homocysteine levels, even after excluding those with silent brain infarcts. The overall risk of having either a silent brain infarct or severe white matter lesions was strongly associated with total homocysteine levels (odds ratio 1.35/standard deviation increase, 95% confidence interval 1.16–1.58). We concluded that total homocysteine levels are associated with silent brain infarcts and white matter lesions independent of each other and of other cardiovascular risk factors.
Synthesis, characterization, coordination and antibacterial properties of novel asymmetric 1,1′‐disubstituted ferrocene‐derived Schiff‐base ligands and their Co(II), Cu(II) Ni(II) and Zn(II) complexes
Authors: Chohan Zahid H. , Praveen M.
Published: August 2002

Some new asymmetric 1,1′‐disubstituted ferrocene‐derived Schiff‐bases have been prepared and used as ligands in the preparation of their Co(II), Cu(II), Ni(II) and Zn(II) metal chelates. These synthesized ligands and their metal chelates have been characterized by their physical, analytical and spectral data. These have also been used for screening against pathogenic bacterial species, e.g. Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Klebsiella pneumonae and have been found to be a novel class of organometallic‐based antibacterials. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis of polymeric precursors for the formation of nanocrystalline Ti‐C‐N/amorphous Si‐C‐N composites
Authors: Hering Nicole , Schreiber Kai , Riedel Ralf , Lichtenberger Olaf , Woltersdorf Jörg
Published: August 2002

The synthesis of trimethylsilyl‐substituted poly(titaniumcarbodiimide) as a novel precursor for titanium carbonitride based ceramic materials is described. The precursor and the subsequent processing steps (cross‐linking and pyrolysis) are characterized by IR and Raman spectroscopy, thermal gravimetric analysis and simultaneous mass spectroscopy, electron microscopy and powder X‐ray diffraction measurements. The novel polymer is formed by the reaction of TiCl4 or Ti(NEt2)4 with bis(trimethylsilyl)carbodiimide. Subsequent pyrolysis at 1000 °C in argon results in the formation of a ceramic composite material consisting of nanocrystalline TiCN and amorphous SiCN as constituting phases. Using Ti(NEt2)4 as a starting reagent instead of TiCl4, chlorine contamination of the ceramic material can be avoided. The different molecular vibration modes of the metal–nitrogen, metal–carbon and nitrogen–carbon bonds in poly(titaniumcarbodiimides) with trimethylsilyl substituents were calculated using quantum mechanical methods, providing a comprehensive understanding of the measured spectra. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Hydrogenation and neutralization of carboxylic styrene–butadiene latex to form thermoplastic elastomer with excellent thermooxidation resistance
Authors: Xie Hong‐Quan , Li Xiao‐Dong , Liu Xiang‐Yao , Guo Jun‐Shi
Published: August 2002

Hydrogenation of carboxylic styrene–butadiene rubber latex was carried out using hydrazine and hydrogen peroxide with ferrous sulfate as a catalyst without pressurized hydrogen and an organic solvent. A mixed inhibitor was used during hydrogenation to prevent gel formation. Various hydrogenation conditions were studied. Ferrous sulfate is better than is cupric sulfate as a catalyst. The hydrogenation degree can reach over 90%. The hydrogenated product was characterized by IR and DSC. The hydrogenated products behave as a thermoplastic elastomer with excellent thermooxidation resistance, due to the absence of most double bonds and the presence of crystalline domains of polyethylene segments formed by the hydrogenation of polybutadiene segments. Ionomers were obtained by neutralization of the hydrogenated product with metallic ions and characterized by IR, DSC, and TEM. The ionomers also behave as thermoplastic elastomers with mechanical properties better than those of the hydrogenated product without neutralization, due to the existence of ionic domains besides the crystalline domains. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 83: 1375–1384, 2002
Permeation of drugs in chitosan membranes
Authors: Rocha A. N. L. , Dantas T. N. C. , Fonseca J. L. C. , Pereira M. R.
Published: August 2002

The permeabilities of isoniazid and amitriptyline hydrochloride in chitosan membranes were investigated. Drug concentration was changed from 0.1 to 1.0% while membrane thickness was varied from 40 to 150 μm. The release rate was measured in water at 30 ± 0.1°C by spectrophotometric determination. The drugs presented quite different permeabilities, which were related to their molecular weights; the permeabilities did not change with thickness or drug concentration for the ranges investigated. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 84: 44–49, 2002; DOI 10.1002/app.10185
Comparison of the structure of step‐growth networks obtained by Monte Carlo simulation and branching theory
Authors: Hädicke Erich , Stutz Herbert
Published: August 2002

To facilitate the characterization of polymer networks, a comparison was made between branching theory and Monte Carlo simulations using an amine‐cured epoxy as an example for step‐growth polymer networks. The primary objective was the validation of the simulation results with the existing statistical theories by a cross‐check, to ensure that simulations can also be used for the characterization of real, highly complicated multicomponent systems, which are intractable by theories. Commercially available software was used for simulation; the theoretical calculations were performed using the approach of Macosko and Miller. In general, the results of both methods are consistent; the simulation revealed some uncertainties only in the vicinity of the gel point. Since the statistical theories have been validated experimentally, it may be concluded that the simulation can also successfully be used for the treatment of real, highly complicated multicomponent systems, which for practical purposes are intractable by statistical theories. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 85: 929–935, 2002
Three‐dimensionally braided carbon fiber–epoxy composites, a new type of materials for osteosynthesis devices. II. Influence of fiber surface treatment
Authors: Wan Y. Z. , Wang Y. L. , Zhou F. G. , Cheng G. X. , Han K. Y.
Published: August 2002

Interfacial adhesion between carbon fiber and epoxy resin plays an important role in determining performance of carbon–epoxy composites. The objective of this research is to determine the effect of fiber surface treatment (oxidization in air) on the mechanical properties (flexural strength and modulus, shear and impact strengths) of three‐dimensionally (3D) braided carbon‐fiber‐reinforced epoxy (C3D/EP) composites. Carbon fibers were air‐treated under various conditions to improve fiber–matrix adhesion. It is found that excessive oxidation will cause formation of micropits. These micropits are preferably formed in crevices of fiber surfaces. The micropits formed on fiber surfaces produce strengthened fiber–matrix bond, but cause great loss of fiber strength and is probably harmful to the overall performance of the corresponding composites. A trade‐off between the fiber–matrix bond and fiber strength loss should be considered. The effectiveness of fiber surface treatment on performance improvement of the C3D/EP composites was compared with that of the unidirectional carbon fiber–epoxy composites. In addition, the effects of fiber volume fraction (Vf) and braiding angle on relative performance improvements were determined. Results reveal obvious effects of Vf and braiding angle. A mechanism was proposed to explain the experimental phenomena. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 85: 1040–1046, 2002