bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis of SnO2 Nanoribbons by Direct Oxidation of Tin Powders
Authors: Kong Xianghua , Yu Dapeng , Li Yadong
Published: December 2002

A new method has been successfully developed to synthesize SnO2 nanoribbons in a large scale by direct oxidation of tin powders. The lengths of the nanoribbons were up to several hundreds of micrometers, and the width and thickness were in the range of 20–150 nm and 10–50 nm, respectively. The as-synthesized SnO2 nanoribbons had preferred [001] growth direction.
Solid Surface Enhancement Effects on Chemiluminescence: Influence of Cationic Species in Solid Media
Authors: Yoshinaga Tetsutaro , Akimoto Shigekazu , Takemura Shin-ichi , Hiratsuka Hiroshi , Hasegawa Miki , Kobayashi Michio , Hoshi Toshihiko
Published: December 2002

Solid surface enhancement effects on chemiluminescence (CL) have been studied using metal salicylates as solid media. Interesting CL characteristics depending on kinds of cationic species (alkaline metal ions, alkaline earth metal ions etc.) on chemiluminescence of diaryloxalate were found.
Thermostable Synthetic Hemoproteins: Thermophilic Xylanases Hybridized with Dioxygen-Carrying meso-Tetrakis(o-pivalamidophenyl)porphinatoiron(II) Derivative
Authors: Komatsu Teruyuki , Ishihara Seiji , Tsuchida Eishun , Nishide Hiroyuki , Morokuma Chihiro , Nakamura Satoshi
Published: December 2002

meso-Tetrakis(α,α,α,α-o-pivalamidophenyl)porphinatoiron(II) derivative is incorporated into thermophilic xylanases, giving novel thermostable synthetic hemoproteins, which can form a dioxygen adduct in aqueous media (pH 7.3) at 90 °C.
Lewis Base Catalyzed Michael Reaction between Ketene Silyl Acetals and α,β-Unsaturated Carbonyl Compounds
Authors: Mukaiyama Teruaki , Nakagawa Takashi , Fujisawa Hidehiko
Published: December 2002

Catalytic Michael reaction between trimethylsilyl enolates and α,β-unsaturated carbonyl compounds by using a Lewis base such as lithium benzamide or lithium succimide in a DMF solvent proceeded smoothly to afford the corresponding Michael adducts.
Clean Synthesis of 3,3′,5,5′-Tetra-tert-butyl-4,4′-diphenoquinone from the Oxidative Coupling of 2,6-Di-tert-butylphenol Catalyzed by Alkali-promoted Cu–Mg–Al Hydrotalcites in the Presence of Molecular Oxygen
Authors: Iwai Keisuke , Yamauchi Takayoshi , Hashimoto Keiji , Mizugaki Tomoo , Ebitani Kohki , Kaneda Kiyotomi
Published: December 2002

2,6-Di-tert-butylphenol is selectively transformed to 3,3′,5,5′-tetra-tert-butyl-4,4′-diphenoquinone in the presence of molecular oxygen using alkali-promoted Cu–Mg–Al hydrotalcites as recyclable heterogeneous catalysts.
Photoexcited Crystallography of Diplatinum Complex by Multiple-exposure IP Method
Authors: Ozawa Yoshiki , Terashima Madoka , Mitsumi Minoru , Toriumi Koshiro , Yasuda Nobuhiro , Uekusa Hidehiro , Ohashi Yuji
Published: December 2002

Molecular distortion of a photoexcited diplatinum(II) complex in a single crystal has been directly observed by accurate synchrotron radiation diffraction studies. Photoexcited crystallographic analysis has revealed that a small portion of [Pt2(pop)4]4− (pop = H2O5P22−) complex shows the Pt–Pt bond shrinkage of 0.23 Å under blue laser irradiation.
Adsorption of Phenols in Water by Organically Modified Layered Niobate K4Nb6O17
Authors: Nakato Teruyuki , Miyashita Hiroyuki , Yakabe Shigetaka
Published: December 2002

Intercalation compounds of layered niobate K4Nb6O17 with organoammonium ions adsorbed 2,4-dicholorophenol and phenol dissolved in water. Their adsorption properties were greatly influenced by the organoammonium species pre-intercalated; modification by dioctadecyldimethylammonium ions gave peculiar affinity for 2,4-dichlorophenol.
An Effective Preparation Route to A Giant Magnetoresistance Material: Hydrothermal Synthesis and Characterization of La0.5Sr0.5MnO3
Authors: Wang Dan , Yu Ranbo , Feng Shouhua , Zheng Wenjun , Xu Ruren , Matsumura Yasuyuki , Takano Mikio
Published: December 2002

Giant magnetoresistance material La0.5Sr0.5MnO3 has been synthesized under mild hydrothermal condition at 240 °C and characterized by means of powder X-ray diffraction, thermal analysis, scanning electron microscopy, ICP elemental analysis, and iodometry. The alkalinity and molar ratio of Mn(VII)/Mn(II) in initial reaction mixture, associated with hydrothermal reaction temperature, dominated the crystallization of the product, La0.5Sr0.5MnO3.
Synthesis of 2,4-Disubstituted Quinolines by Reactions of o-Isocyano-β-methoxystyrene Derivatives with Organolithiums
Authors: Kobayashi Kazuhiro , Yoneda Keiichi , Mano Masaaki , Morikawa Osamu , Konishi Hisatoshi
Published: December 2002

Alkyl(or aryl)lithiums reacted efficiently with o-isocyano-β-methoxystyrene derivatives, prepared in three steps from o-aminophenyl ketones, to afford the corresponding 2,4-disubstituted quinolines in satisfactory yields.
Ag/Rh Bimetallic Nanoparticles Formed by Self-assembly from Ag and Rh Monometallic Nanoparticles in Solution
Authors: Hirakawa Kazutaka , Toshima Naoki
Published: December 2002

The plasmon absorption band of colloidal dispersions of poly(N-vinyl-2-pyrrolidone)-protected Ag nanoparticles was extinguished within several minutes by the addition of Rh nanoparticles sol. Transmission electron micrographs and X-ray diffraction measurements have shown that this phenomenon is due to that the physical mixture of Ag and Rh nanoparticles spontaneously generates the bimetallic nanoparticles with Ag-core/Rh-shell structure.
Direct Observation of the DNA Multimolecule Condensation with Fluorescence Microscopy
Authors: Ling Lian-Sheng , Fang Xiao-Hong , Wang Chen , Wan Li-Jun , Bai Chun-Li , Chen Dong-Min
Published: December 2002

DNA condensation plays a crucial role in DNA strand-exchange, ligation, renaturation and catenation. Thus it has drawn researchers’ great attention. In this work, spermine-induced DNA condensation was studied with epifluorescence microscopy. In the presence of Ru(phen)2(dppx)2+ (phen = 1,10-phenanthroline, dppx = 7,8-dimethyl-dipyridophenazine), single λ-DNA with the length of about 10 μm was observed. With the addition of 20 mmol·l−1 spermine, there occurred DNA multimolecule condensation, resulting in the formation of a 40 μm rod-like highly compacted and ordered superhelical structure with the diameter of about 7 μm. This provides the direct evidence of DNA multimolecule condensation induced by spermine in solution.
Development of a Composite Optical Waveguide Sensor for Immunoglobulin G
Authors: Yimit Abliz , Huang Xiuzhu , Xu Yitai , Amemiya Takashi , Itoh Kiminori
Published: December 2002

Highly sensitive composite optical waveguide (COWG) immunosensors were developed for immunoglobulin IgG detection. The sensing layer of the protein A was coated onto the COWG surface with (γ-aminopropyl) triethoxysilane. The sensor has a short response time, reversibility and high sensitivity (as low as 70 pg/cm3 IgG was easily detected).
Photo-enhancement of Transfection Efficiency with a Novel Azobenzene-based Cationic Lipid
Authors: Nagasaki Takeshi , Wada Katsutoshi , Tamagaki Seizo
Published: December 2002

The transfection efficiency of a novel photoresponsive cationic lipid having an azobenzene structure can be controlled by UV irradiation. After DNA complexes pass through the cell membrane by endocytosis, trans to cis isomerization of the azobenzene structure would destabilize the vesicle membrane.
Synthesis of Mesoporous Silicon Oxynitrides via Direct Nitridation with Nitrogen
Authors: Kapoor Mahendra P , Inagaki Shinji
Published: December 2002

An entirely new route for the synthesis of thermally stable ordered mesoporous silicon oxynitride (MSON) by direct nitridation with nitrogen of periodic ethane-bridged mesoporous silica material is reported.
The influence of test‐set similarity in verbal overshadowing
Authors: Kitagami Shinji , Sato Wataru , Yoshikawa Sakiko
Published: December 2002

The verbal overshadowing effect is the phenomenon in which describing a previously seen face impairs its recognition (Schooler and Engstler‐Schooler, 1990). The primary purpose of this research was to investigate how the similarity between a target and distractors influences verbal overshadowing. In order to manipulate test‐set similarity, we blended the faces of different people by using morphing techniques. As a result, verbal overshadowing was found when test‐set similarity was relatively high, while the effect was not evident when there was a lesser degree of similarity. The results suggest that replicating the emergence of the verbal overshadowing effect depends on test‐set similarity. The implications of these findings for research and practice are discussed. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Applied aspects of the instructional bias effect in verbal overshadowing
Authors: Meissner Christian A.
Published: December 2002

Previous studies have demonstrated that instructional manipulation of a participant witness's response criterion on a description task can lead to verbal overshadowing in performance on a subsequent lineup identification task. The current set of experiments attempts to replicate this instructional bias effect in verbal overshadowing and extend the paradigm to include variations in lineup presentation format (Experiment 1) and repeated descriptions prior to identification (Experiment 2). The instructional bias effect is found to persist despite the ‘sequential’ presentation of lineup members and across repeated recall of a target face 1 week later. Furthermore, both experiments demonstrated that incorrect details generated by participants were predictive of subsequent inaccuracy on the identification task. Both theoretical and applied aspects of the instructional bias effect in verbal overshadowing are discussed. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
How did you get here from there? Verbal overshadowing of spatial mental models
Authors: Fiore Stephen M. , Schooler Jonathan W.
Published: December 2002

This experiment investigated the reactive effects of verbal reports on spatial mental models. Participants studied a map marked with a route and then either verbalized their memory for the route or engaged in an unrelated verbal activity. Results showed that verbalization hindered performance on a measure of configural knowledge (straight‐line distance estimations) but had no overall influence on a measure of featural knowledge (route distance estimations). In addition, verbalization differentially interacted with verbal ability on the memory measures. The implications for research on memory for spatial environments and the evidence for the existence of two distinct forms of memory representations (route versus configural) in spatial mental models are discussed. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Verbal overshadowing: A special issue exploring theoretical and applied issues
Authors: Meissner Christian A. , Memon Amina
Published: December 2002

Over a decade of research has investigated the verbal overshadowing effect. This phenomenon, first demonstrated by Schooler and Engstler‐Schooler (1990), indicates that verbally describing a non‐verbal stimulus (such as a face) can impair subsequent attempts at identification of the stimulus. Taken together, the current special issue on verbal overshadowing explores three critical aspects of the effect: (a) debates regarding the theoretical mechanisms governing the phenomenon, (b) boundary conditions that might define when the effect is observed, and (c) new domains and paradigms that explore the generality of the phenomenon. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Verbalization produces a transfer inappropriate processing shift
Authors: Schooler Jonathan W.
Published: December 2002

When considered in the context of prior research, the articles in this special issue on verbal overshadowing largely support the contention that verbalization can induce a processing shift that interferes with the application of non‐verbal operations. Multiple sources of evidence for a processing shift are reviewed, including: (1) verbalization quality often does not correspond to recognition performance; (2) describing one stimulus can interfere with memory for a different stimulus; (3) engaging in a featural processing tasks impairs recognition in a manner comparable to verbalization; and (4) engaging in non‐verbal tasks can reverse the negative effects of verbalization. In the light of this evidence, it is suggested that verbalization produces a ‘transfer inappropriate processing shift’ whereby the cognitive operations engaged in during verbalization dampen the activation of brain regions associated with critical non‐verbal operations. This account of verbal overshadowing is then used to explain both the generality and fragility of the verbal overshadowing effect. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Epidemiologic study of cancer mortality among Israeli asphalt workers
Authors: Shaham Judith , Knecht Yael , Burstyn Igor , Kromhout Hans , Ferro Gilles , Partanen Timo , Boffetta Paolo
Published: December 2002

Background

We describe the results of a cancer mortality study among asphalt workers in Israel.

Methods

Personal identifiers and employment histories of 2,176 workers were extracted from company records.

Results

Mortality from all malignant neoplasms was significantly reduced in the whole cohort (SMR 0.68, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.56–0.83). SMR for lung cancer was elevated in workers exposed to bitumen (SMR 1.05, 95% CI 0.62–1.66). No significant elevation or reduction in mortality was observed in relation to a specific site. SMRs for lung cancer was higher among ever exposed to bitumen than among unexposed. There was no association between lung cancer risk and estimated exposure to bitumen fume, and no dose‐response was apparent.

Conclusions

While the results of this cohort study indicate a slightly increased SMR for lung cancer, it did not produce evidence of a causal link between lung cancer and exposure to bitumen fume. Am. J. Ind. Med. 43:69–78, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Mortality from non‐malignant diseases among male Norwegian asphalt workers
Authors: Randem Britt Grethe , Langård Sverre , Kongerud Johny , Dale Inge , Burstyn Igor , Martinsen Jan Ivar , Andersen Aage
Published: December 2002

Background

The possible associations between asphalt work and mortality from non‐malignant diseases in a cohort of male Norwegian asphalt workers that formed part of the European asphalt worker mortality study are examined.

Methods

The mortality experience among 8,610 male workers ever employed in asphalt work was observed from 01.01.1970 until 12.31.1996, yielding 127,636 person years of observation. The cause‐specific deaths observed in the study cohort were compared with the expected figures calculated from 5‐year period‐ and age‐specific national death rates. A study‐specific job exposure matrix was used for individual–individual exposure estimates.

Results

Eight hundred and three workers died during the observation period (SMR = 0.92, 95% confidence intervals (CI) = 0.58, 1.40). The mortality from non‐malignant respiratory diseases was elevated (SMR = 1.25, 95%CI = 0.97, 1.58) and was associated with years since first employment in the asphalt industry. Mortality from respiratory diseases was highest among the workers first employed in the 1960s. Among the different job types held by the workers the pavers and mastic asphalt workers had the highest mortality from respiratory diseases. A weak dose–response was found with cumulative exposure to PAH and bitumen fume and mortality from non‐malignant respiratory diseases in analyses employing the job‐exposure matrix. Overall mortality, the mortality from circulatory diseases (SMR = 0.93, 95%CI = 0.83, 1.03) and external causes (SMR = 0.90, 95%CI = 0.72, 1.11) was lower than expected.

Conclusions

Mortality from respiratory diseases was found somewhat elevated among the asphalt workers. There was some evidence of exposure–response with both bitumen fume and PAH exposure. PAH from coal tar contributes to the PAH exposure. Am. J. Ind. Med. 43:96–103, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cohort mortality study among French asphalt workers
Authors: Stücker Isabelle , Meguellati Djamila , Boffetta Paolo , Cénée Sylvie , Margelin Dominique , Hémon Denis
Published: December 2002

Background

In conjunction with the European cohort study among asphalt workers coordinated by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), we studied the mortality of 15,011 French men who were followed for 17 years for a total of 175,062 persons‐years. This group contained 2,506 subjects who had ever been employed as asphalt workers: they contributed 30,692 person‐years of risk. A reference group was composed of 6,675 subjects (i.e., 61,856 persons‐years) who had been employed only in building or ground construction.

Methods

Mortality ratios standardized for age and period were computed with their 95% confidence intervals (CI) from the age and period mortality rates of all French men for the years covered by the study (1979–1996). We also compared the mortality of exposed workers and the reference group with Poisson regression models after adjustment for age, calendar period, and either duration of employment or length of follow‐up.

Results

Mortality from lung cancer was equivalent to the expected rate [SMR = 1.01 95% CI (0.6–1.6)], but was 40% greater than among the non‐exposed reference group [RR = 1.4 95% CI (0.7–2.8)]. We also found an excess of gastrointestinal cancers, especially of the esophagus [SMR = 1.94, 95% CI (0.9–3.6)] and stomach [SMR = 2.2, 95% CI (0.8–4.7)]. Comparison with the internal reference group confirmed these findings, especially for stomach cancer [RR = 2.8, 95% CI (0.7–11.4)].

Conclusions

Although our results are not statistically significant, they suggest that road‐paving workers may have a slightly higher rate of lung cancer and a moderately higher rate of stomach cancer than their non‐exposed counterparts. The excess of lung cancer may be due to potential confounding factors, including the occupational risk factor of coal tar exposure and the lifestyle risk factor of smoking. A nested case‐control study is under way that will make it possible to control for smoking and other potential carcinogenic exposures; this is necessary before any definitive conclusions can be drawn. Am. J. Ind. Med. 43:58–68, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Estimating exposures in the asphalt industry for an international epidemiological cohort study of cancer risk
Authors: Burstyn Igor , Boffetta Paolo , Kauppinen Timo , Heikkilä Pirjo , Svane Ole , Partanen Timo , Stücker Isabelle , Frentzel‐Beyme Rainer , Ahrens Wolfgang , Merzenich Hiltrud , Heederik Dick , Hooiveld Mariëtte , Langård Sverre , Randem Britt G. , Järvholm Bengt , Bergdahl Ingvar , Shaham Judith , Ribak Joseph , Kromhout Hans
Published: December 2002

Background

An exposure matrix (EM) for known and suspected carcinogens was required for a multicenter international cohort study of cancer risk and bitumen among asphalt workers.

Methods

Production characteristics in companies enrolled in the study were ascertained through use of a company questionnaire (CQ). Exposures to coal tar, bitumen fume, organic vapor, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, diesel fume, silica, and asbestos were assessed semi‐quantitatively using information from CQs, expert judgment, and statistical models. Exposures of road paving workers to bitumen fume, organic vapor, and benzo(a)pyrene were estimated quantitatively by applying regression models, based on monitoring data, to exposure scenarios identified by the CQs.

Results

Exposures estimates were derived for 217 companies enrolled in the cohort, plus the Swedish asphalt paving industry in general. Most companies were engaged in road paving and asphalt mixing, but some also participated in general construction and roofing. Coal tar use was most common in Denmark and The Netherlands, but the practice is now obsolete. Quantitative estimates of exposure to bitumen fume, organic vapor, and benzo(a)pyrene for pavers, and semi‐quantitative estimates of exposure to these agents among all subjects were strongly correlated. Semi‐quantitative estimates of exposure to bitumen fume and coal tar exposures were only moderately correlated. EM assessed non‐monotonic historical decrease in exposures to all agents assessed except silica and diesel exhaust.

Conclusions

We produced a data‐driven EM using methodology that can be adapted for other multicenter studies. Am. J. Ind. Med. 43:3–17, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Concurrence of fragile X syndrome and 47, XYY in an individual with a Prader‐Willi‐like phenotype
Authors: Stalker Heather J. , Keller Kory L. , Gray Brian A. , Zori Roberto T.
Published: December 2002

We report on a 34‐year‐old developmentally disabled man referred to our clinic for evaluation of possible Prader‐Willi syndrome on the basis of obesity and voracious appetite. Cytogenetic and molecular analysis revealed a 47, XYY karyotype and the presence of a trinucleotide repeat expansion resulting in fragile X syndrome. To our knowledge, this is the first report of concurrence of XYY and fragile X syndrome in the medical literature. Review of sex chromosome abnormalities associated with fragile X syndrome and phenotypic considerations are presented. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Risk perception of participants in a family‐based genetic screening program on familial hypercholesterolemia
Authors: van Maarle M.C. , Stouthard M.E.A. , Bonsel G.J.
Published: December 2002

The aim of this article is threefold. First, we describe the accuracy of people's risk perception who have been screened on familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) in a family‐based screening program. Second, we identify factors that modify risk perception. Finally, we show the influence of risk perception on subsequent preventive behavior. The risk perception of 556 screenees (677 participants, overall response = 82%) was measured by postal questionnaires on three occasions: at screening and 3 days and 7 months after the test result was reported to the patient. Presentation of the risk was precategorized and given both as numerical (1 in x) and as verbal probability. In addition, medication use and attitudes toward gene therapy were determined 7 months after screening. On average, the screenees underestimated their numeric risk of having FH and getting a myocardial infarction (MI). Furthermore, FH‐positive screenees perceived that they were at greater risk of MI than FH negatives, and screenees with the highest actual risk used medication more, perceived a greater risk, and opted more often for future gene therapy. Risk perception of having FH was influenced by cholesterol level, while MI risk perception was affected by age, education, cholesterol level, and cardiovascular disease (CVD) in the family. We conclude that FH‐positive screenees correctly perceive a higher risk of getting a heart attack than do FH‐negative screenees. Screenees did not believe that MI was inevitable, and risk perception was associated with both medication use and the intention to opt for gene therapy, but not with other preventive measures. Thus, genetic risk notification seems to be acceptable and does not lead to aversion to preventive behavior. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Postnatal growth failure, microcephaly, mental retardation, cataracts, large joint contractures, osteoporosis, cortical dysplasia, and cerebellar atrophy
Authors: Shotelersuk Vorasuk , Desudchit Tayard , Suwanwela Nitaya
Published: December 2002

We describe two sibs with postnatal‐onset growth deficiency, microcephaly, cataract, prominent supraorbital ridge, large joint contractures, severe osteoporosis, cortical dysplasia, cerebellar atrophy, and mental retardation. The combination appears to constitute a previously undescribed syndrome inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
18q‐ syndrome and ectodermal dysplasia syndrome: Description of a child and his family
Authors: Zannolli R. , Pierluigi M. , Pucci L. , Lagrasta N. , Gasparre O. , Matera M.R. , Di Bartolo R.M. , Mazzei M.A. , Sacco P. , Miracco C. , de Santi M.M. , Aitiani P. , Cavani S. , Pellegrini L. , Fimiani M. , Alessandrini C. , Galluzzi P. , Livi W. , Gonnelli S. , Terrosi‐Vagnoli P. , Zappella M. , Morgese G.
Published: December 2002

The 18q‐ syndrome [MIM #601808] is a terminal deletion of the long arm of chromosome 18. The most common deletion extends from region q21 to qter. We report here a nine‐year‐old boy possessing a simple 18q‐ deletion who had abnormalities of the brain, skull, face, tooth, hair, bone, and skin, plus joint laxity, tongue palsy, subtle sensoneural deafness, mental and speech delay, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), tic, and restless legs syndromes. His karyotype was 46, XY, del (18)(q21.31−qter). The size of the deletion was approximately 45 cM. Most of these abnormalities were not explained by the 18q‐ deletion. The family pedigree suggested the presence of a subtle involvement of ectodermal and/or mesodermal structures. Karyotypes of the other family members were normal. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Trisomy 8 mosaicism: Selective growth advantage of normal cells vs. growth disadvantage of trisomy 8 cells
Authors: Hulley Bonnie J. , Hummel Marybeth , Cook Linda L. , Boyd Brita K. , Wenger Sharon L.
Published: December 2002

A fetus with trisomy 8 mosaicism was identified prenatally due to an abnormal maternal serum triple screen. Tissue samples were taken at birth to determine the level of trisomy 8 mosaicism found within embryonic and extra‐embryonic tissues, rates of cell division for the two cell lines, and the effect of mosaicism on the phenotype. The level of trisomy 8 cells in blood and fibroblasts was higher than in placental tissue. Cell cycle kinetics, by incorporation of bromodeoxyuridine for 48 hr, was not significantly different between the trisomy 8 and normal cells for blood or amnion. Fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) using centromeric probe for chromosome 8 showed significantly more trisomy 8 in interphase vs. metaphase in lymphoblasts, umbilical cord fibroblasts, and chorion. The loss of trisomy 8 cells is not due to anaphase lag, as determined by micronuclei analysis. The similarity of cell cycle kinetics between trisomy 8 cells and normal diploid cells suggests some trisomy 8 cells are exiting the cell cycle prematurely. This growth disadvantage of trisomy 8 cells results in the appearance of growth advantage for diploid cells. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Child with overgrowth, pigmentary streaks, polydactyly, and intestinal lymphangiectasia: Macrocephaly–cutis marmorata telangiectatica congenita syndrome or new disorder?
Authors: Mégarbané André , Haddad Joseph , Lyonnet Stanislass , Clayton‐Smith Jill
Published: December 2002

We report a male patient with increased birth weight and growth, cutis marmorata, macrocephaly, large hands and feet, thick subcutaneous tissues, postaxial polydactyly, linear skin hyperpigmentation following the lines of Blaschko, and intestinal lymphangiectasia. Although the findings resemble the recently defined macrocephaly cutis marmorata syndrome, some findings suggest that this might be a new disorder. Differential diagnosis are discussed, with a review of the literature. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Documentation of anomalies not previously described in Fryns syndrome
Authors: Arnold Sonya Rae , Debich‐Spicer D Diane , Opitz John M. , Gilbert‐Barness Enid
Published: December 2002

We report on a case of Fryns syndrome with microcephaly, multiple facial anomalies, hypoplasia of distal phalanges, diaphragmatic defect with a thin, translucent diaphragm, microphthalmia (right), anophthalmia (left), and multiple midline developmental defects including gastroschisis, central nervous system defects including left arrhinencephaly and cerebellar hypoplasia, midline cleft of the upper lip, alveolar ridge and maxillary bone, and cleft nose with bilateral choanal atresia. These defects add to our knowledge of the phenotype of Fryns syndrome. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Lack of association between Y chromosome haplogroups and male infertility in Japanese men
Authors: Carvalho Cláudia M.B. , Fujisawa Masato , Shirakawa Toshiro , Gotoh Akinobu , Kamidono Sadao , Freitas Paulo Tatiana , Santos Sidney E.B. , Rocha Juliane , Pena Sérgio D.J. , Santos Fabrício R.
Published: December 2002

The Y chromosome carries several genes involved in spermatogenesis, which are distributed in three regions in the euchromatic part of the long arm, called AZFa (azoospermia factor a), AZFb, and AZFc. Microdeletions in these regions have been seen in 10–15% of sterile males with azoospermia or severe oligozoospermia. The relatively high de novo occurrence of these microdeletion events might be due to particular chromosome arrangements associated with certain Y chromosome haplogroups. To test whether there is any association between Y chromosome types and male infertility, we studied a sample of 84 Japanese oligozoospermic or azoospermic males. The patients were analyzed for the presence of Yq microdeletions and also typed with a battery of unique event polymorphisms (UEPs) to define their Y haplogroups. Six of the infertile patients presented likely pathological microdeletions detectable with the sequence tagged sites (STS) markers used. There was no significant association between Y chromosome haplogroups and the microdeletions. We also compared the Y haplogroup frequencies in our subset sample of 51 idiopathic azoospermia patients with 57 fertile control Japanese males, and did not observe any significant differences. Contrary to previous reports, our data suggest that Y microdeletions and other molecular events causally associated with male infertility in Japan occur independently of the Y chromosome background. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Functional morphology and physiology of pulmonary rapidly adapting receptors (RARs)
Authors: Widdicombe John
Published: December 2002

Rapidly adapting receptors (RARs) in the airway mucosa are found from the nasopharynx to the bronchi. They have thin (Aδ) vagal afferent fibres and lie in and under the epithelium, but their morphology has not been defined. They are very sensitive to mechanical stimuli, and have a rapidly adapting irregular discharge. However, with in vitro preparations they are rather insensitive to chemical stimuli, apart from acid and nonisosmolar solutions. Their pattern of response varies with site. RARs in the nasopharynx, larynx, and trachea usually respond only during the onset of stimuli, while those in the trachea often have an off‐response as well. Those in the bronchi are less rapidly adapting and more chemosensitive. Their membranes have mechanosensitive and acid‐sensitive ion channels, but no vanilloid receptors. In vivo RARs are sensitive to a wide range of chemical irritants and mediators, and presumably are excited secondarily to mechanical changes in the mucosa and airway smooth muscle. In the central nervous system (CNS) they interact with other vagal afferent pathways. The reflexes they cause vary with site (inspiratory efforts from the nasopharynx, cough or expiratory efforts from the larynx and trachea, and deep breaths or tachypnoea from the bronchi). Pathways from RARs and other vagal reflexes show plasticity at the peripheral, ganglionic, and CNS levels. Anat Rec Part A 270A:2–10, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Functional morphology and physiology of slowly adapting pulmonary stretch receptors
Authors: Schelegle Edward S.
Published: December 2002

Since the original work by Hering and Breuer (1868) on slowly adapting pulmonary stretch receptors (SARs), numerous studies have demonstrated that these receptors are the lung vagal afferents responsible for eliciting the reflexes evoked by moderate lung inflation. SARs play a role in controlling breathing pattern, airway smooth muscle tone, systemic vascular resistance, and heart rate. Both anatomical and physiological studies support the contention that SARs, by their close association with airway smooth muscle, continuously sense the tension within the myoelastic components of the airways caused by lung inflation, smooth muscle contraction, and/or tethering of small intrapulmonary airways to the lung parenchyma. As a result, the receptor field location within the tracheobronchial tree of a SAR plays an important role in its discharge pattern, with variations in airway transluminal pressure and airway smooth muscle orientation being important modulating factors. The disruption of airway myoelastic components in various pulmonary diseases would be expected to alter the discharge pattern of SARs, and contribute to changes in breathing pattern and airway smooth muscle tone. Anat Rec Part A 270A:11–16, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Postnatal maturation of the dog stria vascularis— an immunohistochemical study
Authors: Coppens Angélique G. , Salmon Isabelle , Heizmann Claus W. , Kiss Robert , Poncelet Luc
Published: December 2002

The lateral wall of the dog cochlear duct was investigated by classical staining and immunohistochemistry for NaK/ATPase β2 isoform, cytokeratins (Cks), vimentin, nestin, and S100A6 during the postnatal cochlear maturation, i.e., from birth to postnatal day 110. The dog stria vascularis was immature at birth. Fine melanin granules were evident in the stria from the second week of life, and melanin concentration increased drastically beyond the first month. The marginal cells were NaK/ATPase‐ and Ck‐positive; intermediate cells were either nestin‐ and S100A6‐positive or vimentin‐positive; the basal cells were vimentin‐positive; the capillary endothelium showed vimentin and nestin labeling; the cell layer underlying the stria was nestin‐positive. The fibrocytes of the spiral ligament and spiral prominence expressed nestin and vimentin. The epithelial cells overlaying the spiral prominence and the external sulcus were Ck‐positive, and transiently nestin‐ and vimentin‐positive. Double immunolabeling, for S100A6 and either nestin, vimentin, or NaK/ATPase, and for nestin and vimentin suggested the presence of two distinct intermediate cell types. The results enabled us to differentiate the cell types forming the lateral wall of the dog cochlear duct, and to follow their postnatal maturation. This study may form a basis for future investigations about spontaneous cochleosaccular degeneration in dogs. This species is an important companion animal, and a possible model for the study of comparable diseases in humans. Anat Rec Part A 270A:82–92, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Receptor‐mediated effects of nicotine and its nitrosated derivative NNK on pulmonary neuroendocrine cells
Authors: Schuller Hildegard M. , Plummer Howard K. , Jull Brian A.
Published: December 2002

Pulmonary neuroendocrine cells (PNECs) have been implicated in the development of small cell lung carcinoma (SCLC) and pediatric asthma, and smoking is a risk factor for both diseases. We as well as others have shown that the α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7 nAChR) regulates the release of 5‐hydroxytryptamine (5‐HT, serotonin) in PNECs and SCLC. Serotonin is an autocrine growth factor for PNECs and SCLC and acts as broncho‐constrictor. We found that nicotine and its nitrosated carcinogenic derivative 4‐(methylnitrosamino)‐1‐(3‐pyridyl)‐1‐butanone (NNK) bind to the α7 nAChR in SCLC and PNECs, resulting in the influx of Ca2+, release of 5‐HT, and activation of a mitogenic pathway mediated by protein kinase C (PKC), Raf‐1, mitogen activated protein kinase (MAPK) and c‐myc. Exposure to 10% CO2 acted synergistically. Unstimulated SCLC cells from smokers demonstrated high base levels of 5‐HT release and of individual downstream signaling components in comparison to PNECs. Subchronic exposure of PNECs to NNK up‐regulated the α7 nAChR and its associated serotonergic mitogenic pathway in PNECs, an effect that may contribute to the development of SCLC in smokers and pediatric asthma in children of mothers who smoke. Anat Rec Part A 270A:51–58, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Mechanically altered embryonic chicken endothelial cells change their phenotype to an epithelioid phenotype
Authors: Arciniegas Enrique , Parada David , Graterol Armando
Published: December 2002

Monolayers of retracted endothelial cells exhibiting wounds or zones denuded of cells were obtained from aortic explants from 10‐ to 12‐day‐old chicken embryos. Using time‐lapse videomicroscopy, we investigated the sequence of events that occurred both during and after closure of the monolayer wounds. Such wound closure (re‐endothelialization process) occurred 4–12 hr after removing the explants, depending on wound width and presence of serum. The cells from along the wound edges appeared to move toward one another. We suggest an important role for bFGF and TGFβ‐2 and ‐3 during this process. Twenty‐five hours after removal there were still some areas of retracted cells, and many of the cells displayed a weak von Willebrand's Factor (vWf) immunoreactivity. Surprisingly, after 63–65 hr many of the endothelial cells had become epithelioid in shape and the vWf immunoreactivity appeared increased. This epithelioid phenotype is currently considered typical of cultured vascular non‐muscle‐like cells and intimal thickening cells. By 5–7 days, the vast majority of cells in the monolayer had acquired an epithelioid morphology, showing a cobblestone appearance. These cells were significantly smaller than polygonal cells. Most importantly, they showed strong vWf immunoreactivity. At the edge of the monolayers we found that the majority of the cells had become epithelioid. Some of them detached from their neighbors and became round in shape and acquired mesenchymal characteristics, some expressing smooth muscle α‐actin (SM α‐actin). These findings demonstrate not only that embryonic endothelial cells that are transiently mechanically altered may change their phenotype to an epithelioid phenotype, but also that these cells may eventually transdifferentiate into mesenchymal cells expressing SM α‐actin. Since some aspects of endothelial cell behavior have been shown to be regulated by locally released growth factors such as TGFβ and FGF, we also investigated TGFβ‐2 and ‐3 and bFGF expression. Presence of TGFβ‐2 and ‐3 and bFGF‐immunoreactive epithelioid and mesenchymal cells indicates that these growth factors may be involved in the changes described. Anat Rec Part A 270A:67–81, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Morphometric analysis of the uterine endometrium of swine on days 12 and 16 postestrus
Authors: Blackwell Dianna M. , Speth Robert C. , Mirando Mark A.
Published: December 2002

The uterine endometrium of swine is comprised of luminal epithelial, glandular epithelial, and stromal cells that secrete the luteolysin, prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α), during late diestrus. However, which of these cells contribute the most to luteolytic PGF2α secretion is unknown because the cellular composition of the endometrium has not been quantified. Therefore, this study quantified the cellular composition of the endometrium on days 12 and 16 postestrus by histologic and morphometric analyses. On day 12, the endometrium consisted predominantly of stromal cells (47% of total cell quantity) and glandular epithelial cells (37%), whereas luminal epithelial cells represented only 16% of the total of the three cell types. The number of glandular epithelial cells tended to increase (P < 0.10) between days 12 and 16, such that they comprised 45% of the endometrium by day 16, while the number of stromal and luminal cells did not change and accounted for 45% and 10% of the cells, respectively. Luminal epithelial cells had a 58% greater cross‐sectional area (P < 0.001) than glandular epithelial cells, whereas glandular epithelial cells had a 22% greater area (P < 0.001) than stromal cells. Glandular epithelial cells decreased (P < 0.001) in cross‐sectional area between days 12 and 16, whereas the area of luminal epithelial and stromal cells remained unchanged. These results indicate that the porcine endometrium is comprised predominantly of stromal and glandular epithelial cells that are likely to contribute substantially to endometrial PGF2α secretion during luteolysis. The contribution of glandular epithelium to luteolytic PGF2α secretion probably increases during diestrus as the number of these cells increases. Anat Rec Part A 270A:59–66, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Management of glucocorticoid‐induced osteoporosis in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: Rates and predictors of care in an academic rheumatology practice
Authors: Solomon Daniel H. , Katz Jeffrey N. , Jacobs Jonathan P. , La Tourette Alison M. , Coblyn Jonathan
Published: December 2002

Objective

To examine rheumatologists' management practices for patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) taking glucocorticoids seen at one academic medical rheumatology practice.

Methods

All patients diagnosed with RA making at least 2 visits to the practice who were noted to be taking glucocorticoids on an index visit in January or February 1999 were included in a retrospective chart review.

Results

Of the 623 eligible patients identified with RA, 236 patients were taking glucocorticoids at their index visit and were included in this study. The mean daily dosage of prednisone (or its equivalent) was 8.8 mg and the mean duration of use during the 2‐year chart review was 15.4 months. Twenty‐three percent of the study population underwent bone densitometry, and 42% were prescribed a medication that reduces bone loss (not including calcium and/or vitamin D). Calcium and/or vitamin D were noted on the medication lists of 25% of patients. Factors associated with not undergoing bone densitometry in adjusted logistic models included male patient sex and premenopausal status in women. No physician factors were significantly related to performing bone densitometry. Variables associated with not receiving prescription treatment of osteoporosis were male patient sex, premenopausal status, and having at least 1 comorbid condition.

Conclusion

Patients with RA taking oral glucocorticoids did not routinely undergo bone densitometry and/or receive prescription medications for osteoporosis. Men and premenopausal women were less likely to undergo bone densitometry and to receive a prescription medication for osteoporosis than postmenopausal women. Interventions to improve detection and prevention of glucocorticoid‐induced osteoporosis are necessary.
Therapeutic benefit of blocking interleukin‐6 activity with an anti–interleukin‐6 receptor monoclonal antibody in rheumatoid arthritis: A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, dose‐escalation trial
Authors: Choy E. H. S. , Isenberg D. A. , Garrood T. , Farrow S. , Ioannou Y. , Bird H. , Cheung N. , Williams B. , Hazleman B. , Price R. , Yoshizaki K. , Nishimoto N. , Kishimoto T. , Panayi G. S.
Published: December 2002

Objective

To investigate the safety and efficacy of MRA, a recombinant human anti–interleukin‐6 (anti–IL‐6) receptor monoclonal antibody of the IgG1 subclass that inhibits the function of IL‐6, in patients with established rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

Methods

A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, dose‐escalation trial was conducted in 45 patients with active RA, as defined by the American College of Rheumatology (ACR) revised criteria. Patients were sequentially allocated to receive a single intravenous dose of either 0.1, 1, 5, or 10 mg/kg of MRA or placebo. The primary efficacy end point was meeting the ACR 20% response criteria at week 2 after treatment.

Results

Demographic features were similar between treatment groups. At week 2, a significant treatment difference was observed between the 5 mg/kg of MRA and placebo, with 5 patients (55.6%) in the MRA cohort and none in the placebo cohort achieving ACR 20% improvement. There was no statistically significant difference in the ACR 20% response between the other 3 MRA cohorts and placebo at week 2. The mean disease activity score at week 2 in those who received 5 mg/kg and 10 mg/kg of MRA was 4.8 and 4.7 (P < 0.001 and P < 0.001 by analysis of variance), respectively. These mean scores were statistically significantly lower than those in the 0.1‐ and 1‐mg/kg MRA and the placebo cohorts (6.4, 6.2, and 7.0, respectively). The erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C‐reactive protein values fell significantly in the 5‐ and 10‐mg/kg MRA cohorts and normalized 2 weeks after treatment. Seventeen patients (5, 4, 6, 2, and 0 patients in the placebo, 0.1‐, 1‐, 5‐, and 10‐mg/kg MRA cohorts, respectively) required corticosteroid or disease‐modifying antirheumatic drug treatment because of active disease before study end. They were regarded as nonresponders from the time they received these treatments. Diarrhea was the most common adverse event, occurring in 8% of patients. Seven patients (15.6%) reported a severe adverse event (3, 1, 2, and 2 patients in the placebo, 0.1‐, 1‐, and 10‐mg/kg MRA cohorts). There were no serious adverse events that were thought to be related to the study drug.

Conclusion

This is the first randomized controlled trial showing that inhibition of IL‐6 significantly improved the signs and symptoms of RA and normalized the acute‐phase reactants. Further research with multiple dosing is necessary to define the most appropriate therapeutic regimen of MRA in RA.
Induction of advanced glycation end products and alterations of the tensile properties of articular cartilage
Authors: Chen Albert C. , Temple Michele M. , Ng Darren M. , Verzijl Nicole , DeGroot Jeroen , TeKoppele Johan M. , Sah Robert L.
Published: December 2002

Objective

To determine whether increasing advanced glycation end products (AGEs) in bovine articular cartilage to levels present in aged human cartilage modulates the tensile biomechanical properties of the tissue.

Methods

Adult bovine articular cartilage samples were incubated in a buffer solution with ribose to induce the formation of AGEs or in a control solution. Portions of cartilage samples were assayed for biochemical indices of AGEs and tested to assess their tensile biomechanical properties, including stiffness, strength, and elongation at failure.

Results

Ribose treatment of cartilage induced increases in tissue fluorescence, absorbance, and pentosidine content (P < 0.001 for each comparison) by amounts similar to those that occur during aging in humans. Ribose treatment of cartilage also induced an increase in dynamic modulus (60% increase) and strength (35% increase), and a decrease (25% decrease) in strain (P < 0.001 for each comparison).

Conclusion

The concomitant increase in AGEs and alteration of tensile properties of cartilage after ribose treatment suggest that aging‐associated changes in AGEs have functional consequences for this tissue. The AGE‐associated increases in strength and stiffness of cartilage may be beneficial by counteracting the decreases in these properties that are associated with degeneration. Conversely, the AGE‐associated decrease in failure length, or increase in brittleness, together with increased stiffness may predispose cartilage to increased stress concentration, fracture, and aging‐associated biomechanical dysfunction.