bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Space–time evolution of the fertility transition in India, 1961–1991
Authors: Balabdaoui F. , Bocquet‐Appel J.‐P. , Lajaunie C. , Irudaya Rajan S.
Published: August 2002

A fertility index has been estimated which takes into account the space–time variations of mortality rates of children and women and the different fertility rates of women across age groups. The basic data are the recorded frequencies at district level for four decennial census dates (1961 to 1991) of children aged 0–4 years and women aged 15–49 years. On that basis, we have 326, 349, 400 and 454 data points on the map for each decennial census, respectively. To construct fertility surfaces on the map, the kriging technique of spatial interpolation was applied. To highlight on these surfaces the areas of regional homogeneity and zones of major change, on a subcontinental scale, a technique of image analysis and the wombling procedure of detection of the zones of abrupt change were used. The fertility maps and the variogram surfaces show that the transition took place by an expansion of heterogeneity starting from the southwestern zones. This expansion reduced the extent of the pre‐transition area of homogeneity in such a way that its original transverse SW–NE direction turned into a longitudinal direction by 1991 and its size became appreciably smaller. In 1961 a long zone of abrupt change detected by wombling was observed crossing the Indian subcontinent transversely. From west to east, it extended longitudinally for a length of nearly 2500 km, including Bangladesh. This zone of abrupt fertility change divided the subcontinent into two regions, one of high fertility in the north and the other of lower fertility in the south. This latter zone is separated partially by State boundaries and geographical landmarks. A procedure of regression trees (classic AID tree) applied to the co‐variables shows that this zone also corresponds to a major regional change in the female literacy rate. From 1961 to 1991, with a general fall in fertility rates all over the country, this zone of abrupt change has progressively disappeared. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Gender preference, contraceptive use and fertility in India: regional and development influences
Authors: Arokiasamy Perianayagam
Published: August 2002

The low status of women and a strong preference for male children are two patriarchal constraints in the northern states of India. This analysis explores the regional influence of culture and that of development factors on gender preference effects towards contraception and fertility. Gender preference effects on contraception are the strongest in the western region, followed by the northern and north central regions, and lowest in the south followed by the eastern region. Gender preference effects on fertility also follow a similar regional pattern. Across the regions of India, there is a close correspondence between the degree of son preference and its effects on contraception and fertility, regardless of the level of fertility. Given that key variables that account for socio‐economic status variations have been held constant in the models, the region‐wise gender preference effects represent the regional influence of culture. However, development factors also have a very substantial counteracting effect on gender preference. There is a reduction in son preference effects on contraception and fertility with increasing levels of women's education and household economic conditions, particularly in the three regions where son preference effects are strongest. Development factors also have a significant independent influence on the use of contraception and recent fertility. However, here also there is a regional pattern relating to this. In summary, women's education and exposure to the mass media are two important developmental indicators that bear a highly significant positive relationship with contraception and a negative relationship with fertility through all regions. However, household economic status as measured by an index of living conditions indicated a strong demand‐driven effect on contraception in the northern and north central regions where women have a lower social position. In contrast, in the southern region where contraception is quickly embraced, facilitated by good access to healthcare, economic conditions barely have any effect at all on the use of contraception or recent fertility. Copyright
© 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Differential effects of dihalogenated and trihalogenated acetates in the liver of B6C3F1 mice
Authors: Kato‐Weinstein J. , Stauber A. J. , Orner G. A. , Thrall B. D. , Bull R. J.
Published: August 2002

Haloacetates are produced in the chlorination of drinking water in the range 10–100 μg l−1. As bromide concentrations increase, brominated haloacetates such as bromodichloroacetate (BDCA), bromochloroacetate (BCA) and dibromoacetate (DBA) appear at higher concentrations than the chlorinated haloacetates: dichloroacetate (DCA) or trichloroacetate (TCA). Both DCA and TCA differ in their hepatic effects; TCA produces peroxisome proliferation as measured by increases in cyanide‐insensitive acyl CoA oxidase activity, whereas DCA increases glycogen concentrations. In order to determine whether the brominated haloacetates DBA, BCA and BDCA resemble DCA or TCA more closely, mice were administered DBA, BCA and BDCA in the drinking water at concentrations of 0.2–3 g l−1. Both BCA and DBA caused liver glycogen accumulation to a similar degree as DCA (12 weeks). The accumulation of glycogen occurred in cells scattered throughout the acinus in a pattern very similar to that observed in control mice. In contrast, TCA and low concentrations of BDCA (0.3 g l−1) reduced liver glycogen content, especially in the central lobular region. The high concentration of BDCA (3 g l−1) produced a pattern of glycogen distribution similar to that in DCA‐treated and control mice. This effect with a high concentration of BDCA may be attributable to the metabolism of BDCA to DCA. All dihaloacetates reduced serum insulin levels. Conversely, trihaloacetates had no significant effects on serum insulin levels. Dibromoacetate was the only brominated haloacetate that consistently increased acyl‐CoA oxidase activity and rates of cell replication in the liver. These results further distinguish the effects of the dihaloacetates from those of peroxisome proliferators like TCA. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Lead‐induced cell death in testes of young rats
Authors: Adhikari Neeta , Sinha Neelima , Narayan Ram , Saxena D. K.
Published: August 2002

Lead is a well‐documented testicular toxicant. The present work was planned to study the occurrence of germ cell death after lead administration. Young growing rats were treated with 5, 10 and 20 mg kg−1 body weight of lead for 2 weeks. Cell death was assessed by employing in situ TUNEL staining, DNA electrophoresis and morphological examination of the tubules. The results showed that Pb induced significant numbers of germ cells to undergo apoptosis in the seminiferous tubules of rats treated with 20 mg kg−1 body weight. However, DNA fragmentation was not detected at any of the doses. The level of lead accumulation in the testis increased in a dose‐dependent manner. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of sodium hypochlorite on dentin bonding with a polyalkenoic acid‐containing adhesive system
Authors: Osorio Raquel , Ceballos Laura , Tay Franklin , Cabrerizo‐Vilchez Miguel A. , Toledano Manuel
Published: August 2002

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) treatment on dentin bonding by means of contact angle (CA), shear bond strength (SBS), and microleakage (ML) measurements. Ultrastructure and nanoleakage (NL) of the interfaces were examined by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). For CA, SBS, and TEM evaluation, human molars were sectioned to expose dentin surfaces and were either acid‐etched (35% H3PO4) or further treated with 5% NaOCl for 2 min before the application of Single Bond adhesive. CAs were measured using the Axisymmetric Drop Shape Analysis technique. The Watanabe testing assembly was used for SBS evaluation. ML was assessed by a dye penetration method. NL was examined using a silver‐staining technique. The results showed that CA values decreased after acid etching and even more after NaOCl treatment. NaOCl treatment produced lower SBS than acid‐etched dentin. Both ML values and NL manifestations were similar for NaOCl‐treated and acid‐etched dentin. NaOCl did not completely remove the collagen matrix. NL was manifested along the base of hybrid layers and within the polyalkenoic acid copolymer in both groups. Adverse chemical interactions could have occurred between the remnant collagen matrix and/or mineralized dentin after NaOCl treatment. There is no additional advantage in using NaOCl treatment with this adhesive. © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res 60: 316–324, 2002; DOI 10.1002/jbm.10074
Preparation of macroporous biodegradable PLGA scaffolds for cell attachment with the use of mixed salts as porogen additives
Authors: Lin Hong‐Ru , Kuo Chun‐Jung , Yang C. Y. , Shaw Shyh‐Yu , Wu Yu‐Jun
Published: August 2002

In the present study, a mixture of ammonium‐bicarbonate (NH4HCO3) and sodium‐chloride (NaCl) particles was used as a porogen additive to fabricate highly macroporous biodegradable poly(lactic‐co‐glycolic acid) (PLGA) scaffolds. A two‐step salt‐leaching process was performed after the sample had become semisolidified. Compared to the standard solvent‐casting/particulate‐leaching (SC/PL) technique, the processing time of this approach was significantly shorter: Instead of several days, only half a day was required. In addition, the polymer/salts/solvent mixture can be easily handled and molded into scaffolds of any specific shape—for example, thin sheet, cylindrical, or bone‐shaped—for special applications in tissue engineering. Our results demonstrate that these scaffolds have a highly interconnected open‐pore structure as well as greater mechanical properties than those made using the standard SC/PL technique. Primary rat osteoblasts seeded into the scaffolds exhibited good seeding efficiency. The method presented here is a promising approach for fabricating scaffolds for tissue engineering applications. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res (Appl Biomater) 62:271–279, 2002
Drug‐releasing scaffolds fabricated from drug‐loaded microspheres
Authors: Nof Moriah , Shea Lonnie D.
Published: August 2002

Biodegradable scaffolds serve a central role in many strategies for engineering tissue replacements or in guiding tissue regeneration. Typically, these scaffolds function to create and maintain a space and to provide a support for cell adhesion. However, these scaffolds also can serve as vehicles for the delivery of bioactive factors (e.g., protein or DNA) in order to manipulate cellular processes within the scaffold microenvironment. This study presents a novel approach to fabricate tissue‐engineering scaffolds capable of sustained drug delivery whereby drug‐loaded microspheres are fabricated into structures with controlled porosity. A double‐emulsion process was used to fabricate microspheres with encapsulated DNA that retained its integrity and was released from the microspheres within 24 h. These DNA‐loaded microspheres subsequently were formed into a nonporous disk or an interconnected open‐pore scaffold (>94% porosity) via a gas‐foaming process. The disks and scaffolds exhibited sustained plasmid release for at least 21 days and had minimal burst during the initial phase of release. This approach of assembling drug‐loaded microspheres into porous and nonporous structures may find great utility in the fabrication of synthetic matrices that direct tissue formation. © 2001 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res 59: 349–356, 2002
The effect of particle wear debris on NFκB activation and pro‐inflammatory cytokine release in differentiated THP‐1 cells
Authors: Akisue Toshihiro , Bauer Thomas W. , Farver Carol F. , Mochida Yuichi
Published: August 2002

Orthopedic wear debris has been thought to be an important factor associated with osteolysis and loosening of total joint arthroplasties. Previous in vitro studies have reported that particles of wear debris induce the release of pro‐inflammatory cytokines and other inflammatory mediators from macrophages and other cells. Several recent investigations, however, have suggested that the wear particles themselves may not be primarily responsible for the inflammatory cellular responses, but that the observed cytokine release in vitro may be caused by endotoxin adsorbed to commercially available particle preparations. The intracellular pathways involved in macrophage signal transduction also are poorly understood. The purposes of this study are to use isolated orthopedic wear debris particles to evaluate pro‐inflammatory cytokine release and nuclear factor kappa B (NFκB) activation from macrophages. Cells from human monocyte/macrophage cell line (THP‐1) were differentiated and incubated with particles of debris that had been isolated from a failed human total hip arthroplasty. The titanium‐alloy particles did not evoke release of TNF‐α or IL‐1β whereas lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or LPS‐treated debris particles induced both TNF‐α and IL‐1β. LPS‐treated particles, but not particles alone, stimulated NFκB activation. Our results suggest that at the concentrations tested in this study, endotoxin‐free wear debris particles may not themselves initiate inflammatory cellular responses in differentiated THP‐1 cells. It is unclear whether adsorbed endotoxin is clinically associated with osteolysis and/or loosening in total joint arthroplasties, but several factors, including adsorbed endotoxin, need to be investigated to explore the cellular responses responsible for osteolysis and/or loosening. © 2001 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res 59: 507–515, 2002
Real‐time and quantitative PCR: applications to mechanism‐based toxicology
Authors: Walker Nigel J.
Published: August 2002

There is increasing awareness that quantitative analysis of changes in molecular targets plays a key role in addressing scientific questions in molecular toxicology, molecular epidemiology, and human risk assessment. One of the emerging technologies that is being used to analyze these molecular targets is real‐time and quantitative (RTAQ) polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The aim of this review is to provide the reader with an overview of this technology and to highlight specific applications of this technology to some key areas of molecular toxicology. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 15:121–127, 2001
Stimulation of hyaluronan synthesis by interleukin‐1β involves activation of protein kinase C βII in fibroblasts from patients with Graves' ophthalmopathy
Authors: Wong Yi‐Kuei , Tang Kam‐Tsun , Wu Jiahn‐Chun , Hwang Jeng‐Jong , Wang Hwai‐Shi
Published: August 2002

Hyaluronan accumulation in the retroorbital connective tissue is one of the pathological features of Graves' ophthalmopathy. Interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β) is known to stimulate hyaluronan synthesis in orbital fibroblasts. In the present study, the intracellular signal transduction pathways involved in this stimulatory effect were investigated in cultured human retroorbital fibroblasts from patients with Graves' ophthalmopathy. IL‐1β‐induced hyaluronan synthesis was significantly inhibited by pretreatment of the cells with two protein kinase C (PKC) inhibitors, chlerythrine chloride and H‐7. In addition, treatment with phorbol 12‐myristate 13‐acetate (PMA), a direct PKC activator, also resulted in increased hyaluronan production. IL‐1β‐ or PMA‐stimulated hyaluronan synthesis was blocked by the protein synthesis inhibitor, cycloheximide. Moreover, the intracellular Ca2+ concentration of the orbital fibroblasts was also involved in the IL‐1β induced transduction pathway, the effect being completely inhibited by BAPTA, an internal calcium chelator. In addition, A23187, a calcium ionophore, increased hyaluronan synthesis in unstimulated cells. These results suggest that the Ca2+‐dependent PKC signal transduction pathway plays an important role in the IL‐1β‐induced hyaluronan synthesis. Moreover, IL‐1β treatment resulted in increased PKC activity and the rapid translocation of PKC βII from the cytoplasm to the plasma membrane. These results indicate that cytosolic Ca2+ and PKC βII are involved in IL‐1β‐induced hyaluronan synthesis in cultured orbital fibroblasts from patients with Graves' ophthalmopathy. J. Cell. Biochem. 82: 58–67, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Involvement of p38 MAP kinase in TGF‐β‐stimulated VEGF synthesis in aortic smooth muscle cells
Authors: Yamamoto Takuji , Kozawa Osamu , Tanabe Kumiko , Akamatsu Shigeru , Matsuno Hiroyuki , Dohi Shuji , Uematsu Toshihiko
Published: August 2002

Although it is known that transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β induces vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) synthesis in vascular smooth muscle cells, the underlying mechanisms are still poorly understood. In the present study, we examined whether the mitogen‐activated protein (MAP) kinase superfamily is involved in TGF‐β‐stimulated VEGF synthesis in aortic smooth muscle A10 cells. TGF‐β stimulated the phosphorylation of p42/p44 MAP kinase and p38 MAP kinase, but not that of SAPK (stress‐activated protein kinase)/JNK (c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase). The VEGF synthesis induced by TGF‐β was not affected by PD98059 or U0126, specific inhibitors of the upstream kinase that activates p42/p44 MAP kinase. We confirmed that PD98059 or U0126 did actually suppress the phosphorylation of p42/p44 MAP kinase by TGF‐β in our preparations. PD169316 and SB203580, specific inhibitors of p38 MAP kinase, significantly reduced the TGF‐β‐stimulated synthesis of VEGF (each in a dose‐dependent manner). PD169316 or SB203580 attenuated the TGF‐β‐induced phosphorylation of p38 MAP kinase. These results strongly suggest that p38 MAP kinase plays a part in the pathway by which TGF‐β stimulates the synthesis of VEGF in aortic smooth muscle cells. J. Cell. Biochem. 82: 591–598, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effect of culture in a rotating wall bioreactor on the physiology of differentiated neuron‐like PC12 and SH‐SY5Y cells
Authors: Wang Steven S.‐S. , Good Theresa A.
Published: August 2002

A variety of evidence suggests that nervous system function is altered during microgravity, however, assessing changes in neuronal physiology during space flight is a non‐trivial task. We have used a rotating wall bioreactor with a high aspect ratio vessel (HARV), which simulates the microgravity environment, to investigate the how the viability, neurite extension, and signaling of differentiated neuron‐like cells changes in different culture environments. We show that culture of differentiated PC12 and SH‐SY5Y cells in the simulated microgravity HARV bioreactor resulted in high cell viability, moderate neurite extension, and cell aggregation accompanied by NO production. Neurite extension was less than that seen in static cultures, suggesting that less than optimal differentiation occurs in simulated microgravity relative to normal gravity. Cells grown in a mixed vessel under normal gravity (a spinner flask) had low viability, low neurite extension, and high glutamate release. This work demonstrates the feasibility of using a rotating wall bioreactor to explore the effects of simulated microgravity on differentiation and physiology of neuron‐like cells. J. Cell. Biochem. 83: 574–584, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Determination of energy minima and saddle points using multireference configuration interaction methods in combination with reduced gradient following: The S0 surface of H2CO and the T1 and T2 surfaces of acetylene
Authors: Dallos Michal , Lischka Hans , Ventura Do Monte Elizete , Hirsch Michael , Quapp Wolfgang
Published: August 2002

The implementation of the reduced gradient following (RGF) method into the COLUMBUS quantum‐chemical program system is reported using the newly developed analytic MR‐CISD/AQCC gradient feature. By this combination a very useful tool has been developed for general searches of stationary points on ground‐ and excited‐state energy surfaces. This procedure is applied to the S0 surface of H2CO and the T1 and T2 surfaces of acetylene. For H2CO we investigated three minima (formaldehyde, s‐trans, and s‐cis hydroxycarbene) and five saddle points. For the T1 and T2 states of acetylene the cis‐ and trans‐minima and the planar and nonplanar saddle points were computed. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem 23: 576–583, 2002; DOI 10.1002/jcc.10054
Preparing psychologists to prescribe
Authors: Sechrest Lee , Coan James A.
Published: August 2002

In this report, an investigation of the training received by professionals currently authorized to prescribe medications is considered as a step toward understanding what might be involved in preparing psychologists appropriately if prescription privileges for psychology were to be obtained. Information about admission and curriculum requirements was collected from medical schools, dental schools, physician assistant programs, nurse practitioner programs, and schools of optometry. Results suggest a high level of pharmacologically relevant coursework is required for admission to, and the completion of, programs that currently prepare their professionals to prescribe. It is argued that preparing psychologists to prescribe would likely entail similar training requirements in addition to, or instead of, those already in place, leaving clinical psychology dramatically and permanently altered. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol 58: 649–658, 2002.
Social support, psychiatric symptoms, and housing: A causal analysis
Authors: Calsyn Robert J. , Winter Joel P.
Published: August 2002

This study used structural equation modeling to examine the causal relationship between social support and each of three outcome variables: depression, psychotic symptoms, and stable housing. Two measures of social support were included in the models: natural support (family and friends) and professional support. Nearly 4,000 individuals from 18 cities in the United States provided data for this study. All participants were homeless at baseline and suffered from severe mental illness. Data were collected at baseline, 3 months, and 1 year.

A reciprocal effects model best explained the causal relationship between social support and psychiatric symptoms. The social causation model best explained the relationship between social support and stable housing, such that increases in social support led to increases in stable housing. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Activation of progelatinase A (MMP‐2) by neutrophil elastase, cathepsin G, and proteinase‐3: A role for inflammatory cells in tumor invasion and angiogenesis
Authors: Shamamian Peter , Schwartz Jess D. , Pocock Ben J.Z. , Monea Sara , Whiting David , Marcus Stuart G. , Mignatti Paolo
Published: August 2002

Gelatinase A (MMP‐2), a matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) involved in tumor invasion and angiogenesis, is secreted as an inactive zymogen (proMMP‐2) and activated by proteolytic cleavage. Here we report that polymorphonuclear neutrophil (PMN)‐derived elastase, cathepsin G, and proteinase‐3 activate proMMP‐2 through a mechanism that requires membrane‐type 1 matrix metalloproteinase (MT1‐MMP) expression. Immunoprecipitation of human PMN‐conditioned medium with a mixture of antibodies to elastase, cathepsin G, and proteinase‐3 abolished proMMP‐2 activation, whereas individual antibodies were ineffective. Incubation of HT1080 cells with either purified PMN elastase or cathepsin G or proteinase‐3 resulted in dose‐and time‐dependent proMMP‐2 activation. Addition of PMN‐conditioned medium to MT1‐MMP expressing cells resulted in increased proMMP‐2 activation and in vitro invasion of extracellular matrix (ECM), but had no effect with cells that express no MT1‐MMP. MMP‐2 activation by PMN‐conditioned medium or purified elastase was blocked by the elastase inhibitor α1‐antitrypsin but not by Batimastat, an MMP inhibitor, showing that elastase activation of MMP‐2 is not mediated by MMP activities. The PMN‐conditioned medium‐induced increase in cell invasion was blocked by Batimastat as well as by α1‐antitrypsin, showing that PMN serine proteinases trigger a proteinase cascade that entails proMMP‐2 activation: this gelatinase is the downstream effector of the proinvasive activity of PMN proteinases. These findings indicate a novel role for PMN‐mediated inflammation in a variety of tissue remodeling processes including tumor invasion and angiogenesis. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Practical application of aqueous two‐phase systems for the development of a prototype process for c‐phycocyanin recovery from Spirulina maxima
Authors: Rito‐Palomares Marco , Nuñez Lilia , Amador Daniel
Published: August 2002

A novel process for the recovery of c‐phycocyanin from Spirulina maxima exploiting aqueous two‐phase systems (ATPS), ultrafiltration and precipitation was developed in order to reduce the number of unit operations and benefit from an increased yield of the protein product. The evaluation of system parameters such as PEG molecular mass, concentration of PEG as well as salt, system pH and volume ratio was carried out to determine under which conditions the c‐phycocyanin and contaminants concentrate to opposite phases. PEG1450–phosphate ATPS proved to be suitable for the recovery of c‐phycocyanin because the target protein concentrated in the top phase whilst the cell debris concentrated in the bottom phase. A two‐stage ATPS process with a phase volume ratio (Vr) equal to 0.3, PEG1450 7% (w/w), phosphate 20% (w/w) and system pH of 6.5 allowed c‐phycocyanin recovery with a purity of 2.4 (estimated as the relationship of the 620 nm to 280 nm absorbances). The use of ultrafiltration (with a 30 kDa membrane cut‐off) and precipitation (with ammonium sulfate) resulted in a recovery process that produced a protein purity of 3.8 ± 0.1 and an overall product yield of 29.5% (w/w). The results reported here demonstrated the practical implementation of ATPS for the design of a prototype recovery process as a first step for the commercial purification of c‐phycocyanin produced by Spirulina maxima.

© 2001 Society of Chemical Industry
Biosorptive uranium uptake by a Pseudomonas strain: characterization and equilibrium studies
Authors: Sar Pinaki , D'Souza Stanislaus F
Published: August 2002

The biosorptive uranium(VI) uptake capacity of live and lyophilized Pseudomonas cells was characterized in terms of equilibrium metal loading, effect of solution pH and possible interference by selected co‐ions. Uranium binding by the test biomass was rapid, achieving >90% sorption efficiency within 10 min of contact and the equilibrium was attained after 1 h. pH‐dependent uranium sorption was observed for both biomass types with the maximum being at pH 5.0. Metal uptake by live cells was not affected by culture age and the presence of an energy source or metabolic inhibitor. Sorption isotherm studies at a solution pH of either 3.5 or 5.0 indicated efficient and exceptionally high uranium loading by the test biomass, particularly at the higher pH level. At equilibrium, the lyophilized Pseudomonas exhibited a metal loading of 541 ± 34.21 mg g−1 compared with a lower value by the live organisms (410 ± 25.93 mg g−1). Experimental sorption data showing conformity to both Freundlich and Langmuir isotherm models indicate monolayered uranium binding by the test biomass. In bimetallic combinations a significant interference in uranium loading was offered by cations such as thorium(IV), iron(II and III), aluminium(III) and copper(II), while the anions tested, except carbonate, were ineffective. Uranium sorption studies in the presence of a range of Fe3+ and SO42− concentrations indicate a strong inhibition (80%) by the former at an equimolar ratio while more than 70% adsorption efficiency was retained even at a high sulfate level (30 000 mg dm−3). Overall data indicate the suitability of the Pseudomonas sp biomass in developing a biosorbent for uranium removal from aqueous waste streams.

© 2001 Society of Chemical Industry
Anodic oxidation of the dye materials methylene blue, acid blue 25, reactive blue 2 and reactive blue 15 and the characterisation of novel intermediate compounds in the anodic oxidation of methylene blue
Authors: Donaldson John D , Grimes Susan M , Yasri Nael G , Wheals Brian , Parrick John , Errington William E
Published: August 2002

Anodic oxidation of the dye molecules, methylene blue, acid blue 25, reactive blue 2 and reactive blue 15 in chloride solution leads to colour destruction but UV and TOC data show that the oxidation reactions do not lead to complete destruction of the organic molecules. Analysis of the anodic oxidation products of [3,7‐bis (dimethylamino) phenothiazinium] chloride (methylene blue) in a chloride solution provides evidence for formation of seven neutral and two charged intermediates. The main intermediate is identified by its X‐ray diffraction crystal structure and accurate mass spectrometry as the novel leuco dye 4,6‐dichloro‐7‐dimethylamino‐3H‐phenothiazin‐3‐one, C14H10Cl2N2OS (I) formed by replacement of one of the dimethylamino groups of methylene blue with oxygen accompanied by regiospecific chlorination of the carbocyclic systems. The mass spectra of other intermediates formed are interpreted in terms of the structure of I.

© 2002 Society of Chemical Industry
Synaptic structure, distribution, and circuitry in the central nervous system of the locust and related insects
Authors: Watson Alan Hugh David , Schürmann Friedrich‐Wilhelm
Published: August 2002

The Orthopteran central nervous system has proved a fertile substrate for combined morphological and physiological studies of identified neurons. Electron microscopy reveals two major types of synaptic contacts between nerve fibres: chemical synapses (which predominate) and electrotonic (gap) junctions. The chemical synapses are characterized by a structural asymmetry between the pre‐ and postsynaptic electron dense paramembranous structures. The postsynaptic paramembranous density defines the extent of a synaptic contact that varies according to synaptic type and location in single identified neurons. Synaptic bars are the most prominent presynaptic element at both monadic and dyadic (divergent) synapses. These are associated with small electron lucent synaptic vesicles in neurons that are cholinergic or glutamatergic (round vesicles) or GABAergic (pleomorphic vesicles). Dense core vesicles of different sizes are indicative of the presence of peptide or amine transmitters. Synapses are mostly found on small‐diameter neuropilar branches and the number of synaptic contacts constituting a single physiological synapse ranges from a few tens to several thousand depending on the neurones involved. Some principles of synaptic circuitry can be deduced from the analysis of highly ordered brain neuropiles. With the light microscope, synaptic location can be inferred from the distribution of the presynaptic protein synapsin I. In the ventral nerve cord, identified neurons that are components of circuits subserving known behaviours, have been studied using electrophysiology in combination with light and electron microscopy and immunocytochemistry of neuroactive compounds. This has allowed the synaptic distribution of the major classes of neurone in the ventral nerve cord to be analysed within a functional context. Microsc. Res. Tech. 56:210–226, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Fragile X mental retardation: Misregulation of protein synthesis in the developing brain?
Authors: Feng Yue
Published: August 2002

Fragile X mental retardation results from the absence of a selective RNA‐binding protein, FMRP. Previous studies demonstrated that FMRP forms messenger ribonucleoprotein (mRNP) complexes to associate with translating polyribosomes, suggesting that FMRP is involved in regulating protein synthesis. We are now facing the changing questions: How does FMRP influence protein synthesis in the brain? What is the target for FMRP in learning and memory? How does the absence of FMRP cause misregulation of protein synthesis, which in turn leads to mental impairment in fragile X syndrome? Models for abnormal neuronal function as a result of misregulated translation due to the absence of FMRP are discussed. Microsc. Res. Tech. 57:145–147, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Structure, heterologous expression, and adhesive properties of the P0‐like myelin glycoprotein IP1 of trout CNS
Authors: Lanwert C. , Jeserich G.
Published: August 2002

The IP1 protein of trout CNS myelin as well as an IP1/P0chimeric protein were stably expressed in CHO cells. Successful targeting of the recombinant proteins to the membrane surface was verified by immunofluorescence staining. Full‐length expression of IP1 could be confirmed by Western blot analysis of proteins extracted from stably transfected CHO‐cells. The adhesive properties of IP1 were studied by an in vitro aggregation assay in which microscopic examination was combined with electronic particle counting. While IP1 conveyed only a weak increase in cell aggregation of transfected CHO cells, the IP1/P0 chimera was much more effective. In the presence of specific antibodies, cell aggregation was strongly reduced. The adhesive properties of P0‐like proteins are discussed considering recent crystallographic data on the atomic structure of the extracellular domain of mammalian P0. Microsc. Res. Tech. 52:637–644, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Sexual differences and effect of photoperiod on melatonin receptor in avian brain
Authors: Aste Nicoletta , Cozzi Bruno , Stankov Bojidar , Panzica Giancarlo
Published: August 2002

Several data suggest that melatonin may influence avian reproduction by acting at the level of the hypothalamic‐hypophisial‐gonadal axis, and/or on neural circuits controlling reproductive behaviours. The action of melatonin is exerted through specific receptors whose distribution and pharmacological properties have been extensively investigated. This review will focus on the distribution, sexual dimorphism, and dependence upon the photoperiod of melatonin binding sites in avian species with a special emphasis on Japanese quail. Melatonin receptors are widely distributed in avian brain. They are mostly present in the visual pathways of all the investigated species and in the song controlling nuclei of oscine birds. Sexual dimorphism of melatonin binding sites (higher density in males than in females) was detected in some telencephalic nuclei of songbirds, in the visual pathways, and in the preoptic area of quail. The last region plays a key role in the activation of male quail copulatory behaviour and it hosts a large population of gonadotropin‐releasing hormone‐containing neurons. Sexual dimorphism of melatonin‐binding sites in the above‐mentioned regions suggests a differential role for this hormone in the modulation of visual perception, gonadotropin production, and seasonally activated behaviours in male and female quail. Further studies are necessary to understand interrelationships among photic cues, gonadal steroids, density, and sexually dimorphic distribution of melatonin receptors. Microsc. Res. Tech. 55:37–47, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Role of melatonin in photoperiodic time measurement in the migratory redheaded bunting (Emberiza bruniceps) and the nonmigratory Indian weaver bird (Ploceus philippinus)
Authors: Kumar Vinod , Singh Sudhi , Misra Manju , Malik Shalie , Rani Sangeeta
Published: August 2002

In the present study, we asked the question whether physiological responses to day length of migratory redheaded bunting (Emberiza bruniceps) and nonmigratory Indian weaver bird (Ploceus philippinus) are mediated by the daily rhythm of melatonin. Melatonin was given either by injection at certain times of the day or as an implant. In series I experiments on the redheaded bunting, melatonin was administered by subcutaneous injections daily at zeitgeber time (ZT) 4 (morning) or ZT10 (evening) and by silastic capsules in photosensitive unstimulated buntings that were held in natural day lengths (NDL) at 27°N beginning from mid February, and in artificial day lengths (ADL, 12L:12D and 14L:10D). Melatonin did not affect the photoperiod‐induced cycles of gain and loss in body mass and testicular growth‐involution, but there was an effect on temporal phasing of the growth‐involution cycle of testes in some groups. For example, the rate of testicular growth and development was faster in birds that received melatonin injection at ZT4 in NDL, and was slower in birds that carried melatonin implants both in NDL and ADL. In series II experiments on Indian weaver birds, melatonin was given in silastic capsules in the first week of September when they still had large gonads. Birds were exposed for 12 weeks to short day length (8L:16D; group 1), to long day length (eight weeks of 16L:8D and four weeks of 18L:6D; group 2), or to both short and long day lengths (four weeks each of 8L:16D, 16L:8D, and 18L:6D; groups 3 and 4). Whereas groups 1 to 3 carried melatonin or empty implant from the beginning, group 4 received one after four weeks. All birds underwent testicular regression during the first four weeks irrespective of the photoperiod they were exposed to or the implant they carried in, and there was a slight re‐initiation of testis growth in some birds during the next eight weeks of long day lengths. However, with the exception of group 2, there was no difference in mean testis volume during the period of experiment between the melatonin‐ and empty‐implant birds. The data on androgen‐dependent beak color also supported the observations on testes. Together, these results do not support the idea that the daily rhythm of melatonin is involved in the photoperiodic time measurement in birds. However, there may still be a role of melatonin in temporal phasing of the annual reproductive cycle in birds. J. Exp. Zool. 292:277–286, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Influence of simulated microgravity on avian primordial germ cell migration and reproductive capacity
Authors: Li Zandong , Song Yonghong , Ma Yuzhong , Wei Hua , Liu Chunhai , Huang Jinsong , Wang Ning , Sha Jin , Sakurai Fujiro
Published: August 2002

Fertilized eggs of chicken and quail were incubated under the simulated microgravity condition provided by a clinostat. The number of Primordial Germ Cells (PGCs) was counted in early embryogenesis, and the reproductive capacity of quail hatched following the simulated microgravity was investigated .Simulated microgravity caused significant decline of PGCs in the blood of early chicken embryos and in the gonads. The numbers of spermatogonia in the hatchling testis were also fewer than those in the control groups. Therefore, simulated microgravity may retard gonadial development and reduce the reproductive capacity. J. Exp. Zool. 292:672–676, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Search for genes involved in the temperature‐induced gonadal sex differentiation in the tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus
Authors: D’Cotta Helena , Fostier Alexis , Guiguen Yann , Govoroun Marina , Baroiller Jean‐François
Published: August 2002

In the tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus, sex is determined by genetic factors (XX/XY) but temperature can also influence the gonadal sex differentiation. Elevated temperatures of 35°C can generate functional male phenotypes if applied before and during sexual differentiation. The genes and mechanisms by which temperature acts on the cascade leading to sex differentiation have been investigated. Two strategies have been followed: 1) Search for novel genes by differential display, and 2) Expression studies of candidate genes. Genetically all‐female and all‐male progenies were reared at 27°C (natural temperature) and at 35°C (masculinizing treatment) and gonads dissected. Using differential display, we isolated a 300 bp cDNA (MM20C) from temperature‐masculinized females. Virtual northern analysis revealed a 1.2 kb transcript in 35°C treated females and males, but hardly any expression in natural females (27°C). Semi‐quantitative RT‐PCR established a several‐fold increase in MM20C expression in 35°C masculinized fry. Elevated expression was observed in natural males (27°C) with higher levels detected in those reared at 35°C. Furthermore, we have analyzed as a candidate gene the P450 11β‐hydroxylase, an important androgen steroidogenic enzyme. Low levels of expression were found in natural males. This coincides with low concentrations of 11 ketotestosterone in the gonads before and during gonadal sex differentiation. Higher expression levels of 11β‐hydroxylase were detected in male gonads at 35°C but levels in phenotypic males were similar to those found for natural females. Previous results reported that expression of aromatase is repressed by masculinizing treatments. Our study demonstrated that masculinizing‐temperature can also stimulate the expression of other gene(s). J. Exp. Zool. 290:574–585, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Sex reversal and aromatase in chicken
Authors: Vaillant Severine , Dorizzi Mireille , Pieau Claude , Richard‐Mercier Noelle
Published: August 2002

Aromatase inhibitors administered before sexual differentiation of the gonads can induce sex reversal in female chickens. To analyze the process of sex reversal, we have followed for several months the changes induced by Fadrozole, a nonsteroidal aromatase inhibitor, in gonadal aromatase activity and in morphology and structure of the female genital system. Fadrozole was injected into eggs on day four of incubation, and its effects were examined during the embryonic development and for eight months after hatching.

In control females, aromatase activity in the right and the left gonad was high in the middle third of embryonic development, and then decreased up to hatching. After hatching, aromatase activity increased in the left ovary, in particular during folliculogenesis, whereas in the right regressing gonad, it continued to decrease to reach testicular levels at one month.

In treated females, masculinization of the genital system was characterized by the maintenance of the right gonad and its differentiation into a testis, and by the differentiation of the left gonad into an ovotestis or a testis; however, in all individuals, the left Müllerian duct and the posterior part of the right Müllerian duct were maintained. In testes and ovotestes, aromatase activity was lower than in gonads of control females (except in the right gonad as of one month after hatching) but remained higher than in testes of control and treated males. Moreover, in ovotestes, aromatase activity was higher in parts displaying follicles than in parts devoid of follicles. The main structural changes in the gonads during sex reversal were partial (in ovotestes) or complete (in testes) degeneration of the cortex in the left gonad, and formation of an albuginea and differentiation of testicular cords/tubes in the two gonads. Testicular cords/tubes transdifferentiated from ovarian medullary cords and lacunae whose epithelium thickened and became Sertolian. Transdifferentiation occurred all along embryonic and postnatal development; thus, new testicular cords/tubes were continuously formed while others degenerated. The sex reversed gonads were also characterized by an abundant fibrous interstitial tissue and abnormal medullary condensations of lymphoid‐like cells; in the persisting testicular cords/tubes, spermatogenesis was delayed and impaired. Related to aromatase activity, persistence of too high levels of estrogens can explain the presence of oviducts, gonadal abnormalities and infertility in sex reversed females. J. Exp. Zool. 290:727–740, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Early development of amphioxus nervous system with special reference to segmental cell organization and putative sensory cell precursors: A study based on the expression of pan‐neuronal marker gene Hu/elav
Authors: Satoh Gouki , Wang Yong , Zhang Peijun , Satoh Nori
Published: August 2002

The development of the nervous system of amphioxus was investigated at the cellular level based on the expression of the pan‐neuronal marker gene Hu/elav. In situ hybridization analysis showed that an amphioxus Hu/elav homolog (AmphiHu/Hel) was expressed in individual cells within the neural plate, but the cells exhibited no obvious arrangements in early embryos without distinct somites. However, in neurulae with somites, AmphiHu/Hel‐positive cells were clustered along the D‐V axis in close register with the boundaries of somites, resulting in reiterated cell arrangements that became evident along the neuraxis. Furthermore, AmphiHu/Hel‐positive cell clusters appeared one by one along with the development of underlying somites. Double‐staining in situ hybridization analysis with the islet gene revealed that the cell clusters contain presumptive motoneurons. In addition, AmphiHu/Hel expression was also observed outside the CNS, probably in the epithelial ectoderm, suggesting that amphioxus has a large number of putative sensory cell precursors as early as the early neurula stage. Taking recent gene expression studies and anatomical studies into consideration, we discuss ontogenetic and phylogenetic features of the amphioxus nervous system. J. Exp. Zool. (Mol. Dev. Evol.) 291:354–364, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The evolution of genome size: What can be learned from anuran development?
Authors: Chipman Ariel D. , Khaner Oded , Haas Alexander , Tchernov Eitan
Published: August 2002

Differences in nuclear DNA content in vertebrates have been shown to be correlated with cell size, cell division rate, and embryonic developmental rate. We compare seven species of anuran amphibians with a three‐fold range of genome sizes. Parameters examined include the number and density of cells in a number of embryonic structures, and the change in cell number in the CNS during development. We show that genome size is correlated with cell proliferation rate and with developmental rate at different stages of embryonic development, but that the correlation between genome size and cell size is only evident at later stages. We discuss the evolution of genome size in amphibians. Our discussion takes into account data that reportedly support two conflicting hypotheses: the “skeletal DNA” hypothesis, which claims a selective role for differences in genome size, and the “junk DNA” hypothesis, which claims that differences in genome size are a random result of the accumulation of noncoding DNA sequences. We show that these supposedly conflicting hypotheses can be integrated into a more complex and inclusive model for the evolution of genome size. J. Exp. Zool. (Mol. Dev. Evol.) 291:365–374, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Presence of two neuropeptides in the fusiform ganglion and reproductive ducts of Octopus vulgaris: FMRFamide and gonadotropin‐releasing hormone (GnRH)
Authors: Di Cristo Carlo , Paolucci Marina , Iglesias Josè , Sanchez Javier , Di Cosmo Anna
Published: August 2002

We have found evidence of FMRFamide‐like and cGnRH‐I‐like immunoreactivity in the central nervous system (CNS) and in the reproductive ducts of both female and male cephalopod Octopus vulgaris. Cell bodies and fibers were immunolocalized in the fusiform ganglion from which the nerves that reach the female and male reproductive ducts arise. FMRFamide‐like and cGnRH‐I‐like immunoreactive nerve endings were present in the oviduct, and in the oviducal gland of the female and in the seminal vesicle of the male. The GnRH‐like peptide from the reproductive ducts has been partially characterized by HPLC. The retention time of the Octopus vulgaris GnRH‐like peptide was similar to the retention time of cGnRH‐I. Based on these observations we suggest that FMRFamide‐like and a novel GnRH‐like peptide are involved in the control of reproductive ducts of Octopus vulgaris. One possibility is that the peptides affect gamete transport. Another possibility is that they regulate secretory products such as mucus and mucilaginous substances from the oviducal gland and the seminal vesicle. Our data provide further evidence to support the hypothesis of the existence of a central and peripheral peptidergic control of reproduction of Octopus vulgaris. J. Exp. Zool. 292:267–276, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.