bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
NUBBINandJAGGEDdefine stamen and carpel shape inArabidopsis
Authors: Dinneny José R. , Weigel Detlef , Yanofsky Martin F.
Published: March 2006

Differential growth of tissues during lateral organ development is essential for producing variation in shape and size. Previous studies have identified JAGGED (JAG), a gene that encodes a putative C2H2 zinc-finger transcription factor, as a key regulator of shape that promotes growth in lateral organs. Although JAG expression is detected in all floral organs, loss-of-function jag alleles have their strongest effects on sepal and petal development, suggesting that JAG may act redundantly with other factors in stamens and carpels. Here, we show that NUBBIN(NUB), a gene closely related to JAG, is responsible for this redundancy. Unlike JAG, NUB is exclusively expressed in leaves,stamens and carpels, and briefly in petal primordia. Furthermore, whereas JAG expression extends into all cell layers of lateral organs, NUB is restricted to the interior adaxial side. Our analysis focuses on stamen and gynoecium development, where we find that NUB acts redundantly with JAG to promote the growth of the pollen-bearing microsporangia of the anthers and the carpel walls of the gynoecium, which enclose the ovules. JAG and NUB also act redundantly to promote the differentiation of adaxial cell types in the carpel walls, and in the establishment of the correct number of cell layers. The important role these two factors play in regulating organ growth is further demonstrated by gain-of-function experiments showing that ectopic NUB expression is sufficient to drive the proliferation of tissues and the amplification of cell-layer number.
Integrin α6β1-laminin interactions regulate early myotome formation in the mouse embryo
Authors: Bajanca Fernanda , Luz Marta , Raymond Karine , Martins Gabriel G. , Sonnenberg Arnoud , Tajbakhsh Shahragim , Buckingham Margaret , Thorsteinsdóttir Sólveig
Published: March 2006

We addressed the potential role of cell-laminin interactions during epaxial myotome formation in the mouse embryo. Assembly of the myotomal laminin matrix occurs as epaxial myogenic precursor cells enter the myotome. Most Myf5-positive and myogenin-negative myogenic precursor cells localise near assembled laminin, while myogenin-expressing cells are located either away from this matrix or in areas where it is being assembled. In Myf5nlacZ/nlacZ (Myf5-null) embryos, laminin,collagen type IV and perlecan are present extracellularly near myogenic precursor cells, but do not form a basement membrane and cells are not contained in the myotomal compartment. Unlike wild-type myogenic precursor cells, Myf5-null cells do not express the α6β1 integrin, a laminin receptor, suggesting that integrin α6β1-laminin interactions are required for myotomal laminin matrix assembly. Blockingα6β1-laminin binding in cultured wild-type mouse embryo explants resulted in dispersion of Myf5-positive cells, a phenotype also seen in Myf5nlacZ/nlacZ embryos. Furthermore, inhibition ofα6β1 resulted in an increase in Myf5 protein and ectopic myogenin expression in dermomyotomal cells, suggesting that α6β1-laminin interactions normally repress myogenesis in the dermomyotome. We conclude that Myf5 is required for maintaining α6β1 expression on myogenic precursor cells, and that α6β1 is necessary for myotomal laminin matrix assembly and cell guidance into the myotome. Engagement of laminin byα6β1 also plays a role in maintaining the undifferentiated state of cells in the dermomyotome prior to their entry into the myotome.
Senseless and Daughterless confer neuronal identity to epithelial cells in theDrosophilawing margin
Authors: Jafar-Nejad Hamed , Tien An-Chi , Acar Melih , Bellen Hugo J.
Published: March 2006

The basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) proneural proteins Achaete and Scute cooperate with the class I bHLH protein Daughterless to specify the precursors of most sensory bristles in Drosophila. However, the mechanosensory bristles at the Drosophila wing margin have been reported to be unaffected by mutations that remove Achaete and Scute function. Indeed, the proneural gene(s) for these organs is not known. Here, we show that the zinc-finger transcription factor Senseless, together with Daughterless, plays the proneural role for the wing margin mechanosensory precursors, whereas Achaete and Scute are required for the survival of the mechanosensory neuron and support cells in these lineages. We provide evidence that Senseless and Daughterless physically interact and synergize in vivo and in transcription assays. Gain-of-function studies indicate that Senseless and Daughterless are sufficient to generate thoracic sensory organs (SOs) in the absence of achaete-scute gene complex function. However, analysis of senseless loss-of-function clones in the thorax implicates Senseless not in the primary SO precursor (pI) selection, but in the specification of pI progeny. Therefore, although Senseless and bHLH proneural proteins are employed during the development of all Drosophila bristles, they play fundamentally different roles in different subtypes of these organs. Our data indicate that transcription factors other than bHLH proteins can also perform the proneural function in the Drosophila peripheral nervous system.
Regulation of flowering time byArabidopsis MSI1
Authors: Bouveret Romaric , Schönrock Nicole , Gruissem Wilhelm , Hennig Lars
Published: March 2006

The transition to flowering is tightly controlled by endogenous programs and environmental signals. We found that MSI1 is a novel flowering-time gene in Arabidopsis. Both partially complemented msi1 mutants and MSI1 antisense plants were late flowering,whereas ectopic expression of MSI1 accelerated flowering. Physiological experiments revealed that MSI1 is similar to genes from the autonomous promotion of flowering pathway. Expression of most known flowering-time genes did not depend on MSI1, but the induction of SOC1 was delayed in partially complemented msi1 mutants. Delayed activation of SOC1 is often caused by increased expression of the floral repressor FLC. However, MSI1 function is independent of FLC. MSI1 is needed to establish epigenetic H3K4 di-methylation and H3K9 acetylation marks in SOC1 chromatin. The presence of these modifications correlates with the high levels of SOC1 expression that induce flowering in Arabidopsis. Together, the control of flowering time depends on epigenetic mechanisms for the correct expression of not only the floral repressor FLC, but also the floral activator SOC1.
FGF8spliceforms mediate early mesoderm and posterior neural tissue formation inXenopus
Authors: Fletcher Russell B. , Baker Julie C. , Harland Richard M.
Published: March 2006

The relative contributions of different FGF ligands and spliceforms to mesodermal and neural patterning in Xenopus have not been determined,and alternative splicing, though common, is a relatively unexplored area in development. We present evidence that FGF8 performs a dual role in X. laevis and X. tropicalis early development. There are two FGF8 spliceforms, FGF8a and FGF8b, which have very different activities. FGF8b is a potent mesoderm inducer, while FGF8a has little effect on the development of mesoderm. When mammalian FGF8 spliceforms are analyzed in X. laevis, the contrast in activity is conserved. Using a loss-of-function approach, we demonstrate that FGF8 is necessary for proper gastrulation and formation of mesoderm and that FGF8b is the predominant FGF8spliceform involved in early mesoderm development in Xenopus. Furthermore, FGF8 signaling is necessary for proper posterior neural formation; loss of either FGF8a or a reduction in both FGF8aand FGF8b causes a reduction in the hindbrain and spinal cord domains.
Activation of Notch1 signaling in cardiogenic mesoderm induces abnormal heart morphogenesis in mouse
Authors: Watanabe Yusuke , Kokubo Hiroki , Miyagawa-Tomita Sachiko , Endo Maho , Igarashi Katsuhide , Aisaki Ken ichi , Kanno Jun , Saga Yumiko
Published: March 2006

Notch signaling is implicated in many developmental processes. In our current study, we have employed a transgenic strategy to investigate the role of Notch signaling during cardiac development in the mouse. Cre recombinase-mediated Notch1 (NICD1) activation in the mesodermal cell lineage leads to abnormal heart morphogenesis, which is characterized by deformities of the ventricles and atrioventricular (AV) canal. The major defects observed include impaired ventricular myocardial differentiation, the ectopic appearance of cell masses in the AV cushion, the right-shifted interventricular septum (IVS) and impaired myocardium of the AV canal. However, the fates of the endocardium and myocardium were not disrupted in NICD1-activated hearts. One of the Notch target genes, Hesr1, was found to be strongly induced in both the ventricle and the AV canal of NICD1-activated hearts. However, a knockout of the Hesr1 gene from NICD-activated hearts rescues only the abnormality of the AV myocardium. We searched for additional possible targets of NICD1 activation by GeneChip analysis and found that Wnt2, Bmp6, jagged 1 and Tnni2 are strongly upregulated in NICD1-activated hearts, and that the activation of these genes was also observed in the absence of Hesr1. Our present study thus indicates that the Notch1 signaling pathway plays a suppressive role both in AV myocardial differentiation and the maturation of the ventricular myocardium.
Light-Induced DNA Cleavage by Bis-9-acridinyl Viologen Derivative
Authors: Takenaka Shigeori , Ihara Toshihiro , Takagi Makoto
Published: March 2006

A bis-9-acridinyl derivative containing a viologen linker chain (3) forms an intercalation complex with DNA, and was found to cleave the double chain DNA strand effectively under irradiation by visible light, due to the photosensitized intramolecular electron transfer from the acridine to viologen moieties within 3.
Preparation of Mesophase Pitch-Based Thin Carbon Tape
Authors: Mochida Isao , Yoon Seong-ho , Korai Yozo
Published: March 2006

A particular mesophase pitch of 100% anisotropy prepared from methylnaphthalene using HF/BF3 spun through the slit-shaped nozzle, stabilized in air under strain, carbonized at 1300 °C and graphitized at 2500 °C into very thin slit-shaped carbon and graphite tapes of 1.6 μm thickness and 12 μm width. The graphite tape provided excellent mechanical properties of tensile strength of 365 kg/mm2, Young’s modulus of 8.1 × 104 kg/mm2, and compressive strength of 71 kg/mm2.
A Long-Lived Intermediate with a Unidentate Dmbpy Ligand in the Photosubstitution of [Ru(bpy)2(dmbpy)]2+ (dmbpy = 3,3′-dimethyl-2,2′-bipyridine)
Authors: Tachiyashiki Satoshi , Nakamaru Katsumi , Mizumachi Kunihiko
Published: March 2006

Photoirradiation of a solution of [Ru(bpy)2(dmbpy)]2+ for a short moment produced an intermediate with a unidentate dmbpy ligand having a long half-life of 0.2–10 min in neutral to 1 mol dm−3 acid solutions at 25 °C.
Asymmetric Oxyselenenylation of Olefins Using Optically Active Selenobinaphthyls and d-Menthol as a Nucleophile
Authors: Fujita Ken-ichi , Iwaoka Michio , Tomoda Shuji
Published: March 2006

In order to improve the diastereomeric excess (d.e.) in asymmetric oxyselenenylation of symmetrical cis-olefins using bis [(R)-2′-acetylamino-1,1′-binaphthalene)-2-yl] diselenide, the use of d- and l-menthol was examined as nucleophiles. The d.e. was further enhanced for symmetrical cis-olefins as well as trans-β-methylstyrene by using d-menthol due to double stereodifferentiation between the (R)-binaphthyl and d-menthol.
Anti-Syn Isomerization of Carbazole-3-carbaldehyde Hydrazone Derivative. Isolation and Characteristics of Syn Isomer
Authors: Nakazawa Toru , Mizuta Yasufumi , Kawahara Akihiko , Miyamoto Eiichi , Muto Nariaki
Published: March 2006

9-Isopropylcarbazole-3-carbaldehyde diphenylhydrazone (anti-form) isomerized to syn-form upon UV light irradiation both in solution and in solid polymer film. The syn-form was successfully isolated in crystalline state by extracting with hexane and recrystallization.
Photochemical Conversion of anti-9-Methylcarbazole-3-carbaldehyde Diphenylhydrazone to Its syn-Isomer and an Indazole
Authors: Matsuda Eri , Aoto Mikiko , Takahashi Shichiro , Ono Hitoshi , Tokumaru Katsumi
Published: March 2006

Under irradiation, the compound in the title, which is frequently used as a charge transport material in electrophotography, undergoes reversible isomerization into its syn-isomer and cyclization to the corresponding indazole. These reactions will affect the characteristics in the practical electrophotographic process using this compound.
Diastereoselective Cyclocondensation Reaction of 3-Formyl-2-isoxazolines
Authors: Kamimura Akio , Kakehi Akikazu
Published: March 2006

The cyclocondensation reaction of 3-formyl-2-isoxazolines proceeds smoothly under the Lewis acid catalyzed conditions to give dihydropyran derivatives in moderate to high yields. Both diastereoisomers of the dihydropyrans, syn and anti, are prepared stereoselectively in the presence of an appropriate Lewis acid and solvent.
Iron(III) Complex Catalyzed Nitrosation of Terminal and 1,2-Disubstituted Olefins with Butyl Nitrite and Phenylsilane
Authors: Kato Koji , Mukaiyama Teruaki
Published: March 2006

In the presence of a catalytic amount of tris(1,3-diketonato)iron(III) complex, various terminal and 1,2-disubstituted olefins are converted into the corresponding nitroso alkane dimers in fairly good yields on treatment with phenylsilane and butyl nitrite at room temperature.
Transition Metal Catalyzed Acetic Acid Synthesis from Methane and CO
Authors: Nishiguchi Takahiro , Nakata Kazuyuki , Takaki Ken , Fujiwara Yuzo
Published: March 2006

Methane reacts with CO to give acetic acid in good yield by the CuSO4 and/or Pd(OCOEt)2 catalysts via C-H bond activation. This reaction has an advantage over the method which uses methanol and rhodium catalysts, in that cheap methane and copper catalysts can be used. Propane also reacts with CO to give butyric acids.
Promotion of V-P Oxide Catalyst for Butane Oxidation by Metal Additives
Authors: Tamaki Jun , Morishita Takehiro , Morishige Hidetaka , Miura Norio , Yamazoe Noboru
Published: March 2006

Mixed oxide catalyst V-P-O for the butane oxidation to maleic anhydride was significantly promoted by the addition of some metal cations. In particular, the addition of a small amount of Bi (Bi/V = 0.02) was the most effective. Over the Bi-added catalyst, the MA selectivity exceeded 70 mol% up to the butane conversion level of 88 mol%, attaining the maximum MA yield of 62 mol% at 395 °C.
Intermediates from Low-Temperature Photolysis of 4,4′-Diazidobiphenyl in Rigid Matrices
Authors: Ohana Tsuguyori , Kaise Masahiro , Yabe Akira
Published: March 2006

The photolysis of 4,4′-diazidobiphenyl (1) in an Ar matrix at low-temperatures (15–20 K) was investigated by UV-vis and IR spectroscopies. The dinitrene was identified as an intermediate by using 15N-labeled 1 and by trapping of the nitrene with CO. The presence of didehydroazepine and quinonoid structures was excluded.
Stereoselective Synthesis of 1,2-cis-Arabinofuranosides Using a New Titanium Catalyst
Authors: Mukaiyama Teruaki , Yamada Masaaki , Suda Shinji , Yokomizo Yoshihiro , Kobayashi Shu
Published: March 2006

In the presence of catalytic amounts of [1,2-benzenediolato(2-)-O,O′]oxotitanium and trimethylsilyl triflate, 1-O-trimethylsilyl-2,3,5-tri-O-benzyl-D-arabinofuranose stereoselectively reacts with various trimethylsilyl ethers to afford the corresponding 1,2-cis-arabinofuranosides in high yields.
Regioselective Photocyclodimerization of Cyclohexenones Intercalated on Clay Layers
Authors: Usami Hisanao , Takagi Katsuhiko , Sawaki Yasuhiko
Published: March 2006

UV light irradiation of 2-cyclohexenones (1) in the presence of saponite clay resulted in a regioselective photodimerization affording anti-head-to-head dimer. The directed intercalation of 1 was suggested by the regioselective dimerization, X-ray diffraction, IR and photoluminesence analyses.
Synthesis and Structural Aspects of Silicon-bridged [2.2]Metacyclophanes
Authors: Nishiyama Kozaburo , Sugawara Tsunetoshi
Published: March 2006

The title compounds were synthesized and the structural aspects were examined by NMR spectroscopy.
Remarkable Stereochemical Features of Ene Reaction of 2-(Alkylthio)crotyl Silyl Ethers Proposal of a Six-Membered Chair-like Transition State
Authors: Nakamura Takashi , Tanino Keiji , Kuwajima Isao
Published: March 2006

In the presence of Lewis acid 2-(alkylthio)crotyl silyl ethers(1) react with aldehydes to give anti or syn adducts with high selectivity, depending on the geometry of 1. Further, on using TiCl4. E-adducts are produced, whereas Z selectivity is observed in the other Lewis acid promoted reactions.
First Evidence of the Effect of Chirality around the Octahedral Metal Center on the Aggregation Behavior of an Amphiphilic Cobalt(III) Complex
Authors: Yashiro Morio , Matsumoto Katsuya , Yoshikawa Sadao
Published: March 2006

Mixed ligand amphiphilic cobalt(III) complexes containing N-dodecylethylenediamine and a chiral tetraamine provide a novel example that the chirality around the octahedral metal center affects the aggregation behavior of the complexes.
ZnBr2-catalyzed Stereospecific 1,4-Elimination of 1-Methoxymethyl-2-(trimethylsilylmethyl)cyclobutanes. Stereoselective Preparation of 1,1,5-Trisubstituted (E)- and (Z)-1,5-Dienes
Authors: Fujiwara Tooru , Suda Atsushi , Takeda Takeshi
Published: March 2006

The stereoselective addition of alkylmetals to 2-(trimethylsilylmethyl)-1-cyclobutyl ketones and the ZnBr2-catalyzed stereospecific ring-opening reaction of resulting 1-methoxymethyl-2-(trimethylsilylmethyl)cyclobutanes gave 1,1,5-trisubstituted 1,5-dienes with high stereoselectivity.
A Novel Thermo-Sensitive Polymer. Poly(2-iso-propyl-2-oxazoline)
Authors: Uyama Hiroshi , Kobayashi Shiro
Published: March 2006

Poly(2-iso-propyl-2-oxazoline) (PiPrOZO), prepared by cationic ring-opening polymerization of iPrOZO, has been found to be a thermo-sensitive polymer. PiPrOZO possesses a cloud point (CP) around 36 °C. The CP changed by the addition of sodium chloride or a surfactant. For utilizing these characteristics, a new hydrogel was prepared by copolymerization of a PiPrOZO macromonomer with ethylene glycol dimethacrylate. The hydrogel swelled below the CP of PiPrOZO. Above the CP, on the other hand, the degree of swelling of the gel was very low.
Synthesis of Optically Active α-Alkylidene-β-hydroxy-γ-methylenebutyrolactones. Isoobtusilactones and Isomahubalactones (Isomahubanolide and Isomahubenolide)
Authors: Nokami Junzo , Ohtsuki Hirotoshi , Sakamoto Yasuhiko , Mitsuoka Masayuki , Kunieda Norio
Published: March 2006

The title compounds were prepared via stereoselective aldol reaction of α,β-unsaturated carboxylate α-anion equivalent, derived from optically active α-(arylsulfinyl)carboxylate and bromomagnesium diisopropylamide, with propargyl aldehyde as a key step.
The Effect of Cation on Kinetic Properties of Chloroaluminate Anions. 27Al NMR in Dialkylimidazolium Chloride-AlCl3 and LiCl-AlCl3 Melts
Authors: Ichikawa Kazuhiko , Izumi Mitsunori , Jin Takashi , Matsumoto Toshiyuki
Published: March 2006

We have carried out the 27Al NMR measurements of spectra and logitudinal magnetization recovery curves for 1-methyl-3-butylimidzolium chloride (DIMCl)-AlCl3 at 65 ± 1 mol% AlCl3 and LiCl-AlCl3 melt at 63 ± 1 mol% AlCl3. The lifetime of Al2Cl7−, τA, increases with increasing the size of cations from Li+, Py+ (butylpyridinium cation) to DIM+.
A Novel Synthesis of 3-Thietanols by Reactions of 2-(1-Haloalkyl)oxiranes with Monothiocarbamic Acid Salts
Authors: Karikomi Michinori , Narabu Shin-ichi , Yoshida Masaaki , Toda Takashi
Published: March 2006

Several 3-thietanol derivatives were synthesized in good yields by stereospecific reactions of 2-(1-haloalkyl)oxiranes with monothiocarbamic acid salts.
Preparation of Surface-modified CdS Microcrystallites. Enhancement of Solubility in Alcohols by Capping with Pentafluorothiophenol
Authors: Ogata Tomoyuki , Hosokawa Hiroji , Oshiro Tatsuhiko , Wada Yuji , Sakata Takao , Mori Hirotaro , Yanagida Shozo
Published: March 2006

Pentafluorophenyl-capped CdS microcrystallites (av. 3–6 nm in diameter) are prepared and characterized by TEM and 19F NMR spectroscopy. Although the similarly prepared phenyl-capped CdS microcrystallites is insoluble in alcohols, the capping with perfluorinated phenyl groups induces high solubility in methanol and ethanol.
Transient Resonance Raman Spectra of Michler’s Ketone in the Lowest Excited Triplet State
Authors: Tahara Tahei , Hamaguchi Hiro-o
Published: March 2006

Transient resonance Raman spectra of Michler’s ketone in the lowest excited triplet state were measured in ethanol and benzene. The spectral features of the T1 state in these solvents were similar to each other although some frequency shifts were observed. This result suggests that Michler’s ketone retains a charge transfer T1 state in nonpolar solvents as well as in polar solvents.
Synthesis of [d-Pyrenylalanine4,4′]gramicidin S by Solid-Phase-Synthesis and Cyclization-Cleavage Method with Oxime Resin
Authors: Xu Ming , Nishino Norikazu , Mihara Hisakazu , Fujimoto Tsutomu , Izumiya Nobuo
Published: March 2006

Cyclic decapeptide [d-pyrenylalanine4,4′]gramicidin S has been efficiently synthesized via stepwise solid-phase-synthesis and cyclization-cleavage with the Kaiser’s oxime resin in 45% total yield. This analog showed the similar conformation to the natural gramicidin S in MeOH. The pyrene ring introduced into the peptide is a useful fluorescent probe for the study of the mechanism of the antimicrobial activity.
A New Stereocontrolled Route to trans-2,5-Disubstituted Tetrahydrofurans
Authors: Chikashita Hidenori , Yasuda Hiroyuki , Kimura Yasunori , Itoh Kazuyoshi
Published: March 2006

An effective new route for the stereocontrolled synthesis of trans-2,5-disubstituted tetrahydrofurans was described, which involved a new type of 1,4-asymmetric induction based on the addition of originally designed dithianyl anion to aldehydes and a stereocontrolled cyclodehydration of the resulting 1,4-diols.
Mechanochemical Reaction of Poly(Vinyl Alcohol) Gels Due to Cooperative Effects of Crosslinks – Respondences to pH and Glucose
Authors: Yonese Masakatsu , Baba Kazuhiko , Kondo Masatoshi , Kishimoto Hiroshi
Published: March 2006

In aqueous solution of borates, poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) hydrogels prepared by a freeze-drying method showed reversible changes of tensile forces responding to pH and the concentra tions of glucose Cglu. Linear relationships between the stress changes and Cglu were confirmed in the region Cglu > 0.2 mmol/dm3.
Group 5A Metal Oxides as Promoters for Oxidative Coupling of Methane
Authors: Yamamura Masami , Okado Hideo , Tsuzuki Naohide
Published: March 2006

Group 5A metal oxides were tested as promoters for oxidative coupling of methane. They were effective promoters for the coupling reaction, when mixed with 1A, 1A/2A, and 1A/3A oxide catalysts, respectively. Addition of Group 5A metal increased the activity of these catalysts.
The Reaction of Nitrogen Dioxide with N-Benzylidene-t-butylamine N-Oxide. Formation of a White Solid Adduct and Its Properties
Authors: Sonokawa Koji , Machida Hidenori , Sakakibara Kazuhisa , Hirota Minoru
Published: March 2006

The reaction of N-benzylidene-t-butylamine N-oxide (PBN) with NO2 gave white diamagnetic solid C11H16N2O4 in addition to greenish blue free radical species. The white solid was shown to decompose quantitatively into the starting PBN and nitric acid when it was dissolved in water.
Silica-Supported MoO3 Catalyst Prepared by Alkoxide Method
Authors: Kobayashi Junya , Shimizu Takashi , Inamura Kazuhiro
Published: March 2006

Highly dispersed silica-supported molybdenum catalysts were prepared by an alkoxide method, using ethylsilicate and ammonium paramolybdate dissolved in ethylene glycol. By comparing temperature-programmed sulfiding(TPS) spectra of the catalysts with those of alumina or silica-supported catalysts formed by an impregnation method, the structures and the dispersion states of molybdenum oxide in the catalysts prepared by the alkoxide method were discussed.
The Energy Aspects of Oil/Water Partition. Proposition of Novel Hydrophobia Parameters for the Treatment of Quantitative Structure-Activity Relationships
Authors: Fujiwara Hideaki , Da Yong-Zhong , Ito Katsuhiko
Published: March 2006

Conventional hydrophobia parameter logP, decimal logarithm of partition coefficient, has been separated into the corresponding terms of enthalpy and entropy. These novel terms are determined for various alcohols and benzoic acids, and shown to give promising results in the analysis of quantitative structure-activity relationships.
Determination of the Mode of Hydrolysis of Chitooligosaccharides by Chitosanase Derived from Aspergillus Orvzae by Thin Layer Chromatography
Authors: Kimura Kumi , Murota Akihiko , Yoshihiro Yoshiro
Published: March 2006

We found that the enzyme from rice-koji of Aspergillus oryzae removed single glucosamine residue from a sequence of β-(1-4)-linked glucosamine chain, such as chitosan and glucosamine oligosaccharides. It became clear that the N-acetyl-β-d-glucosaminidase of Aspergillus orvzae was characterized as an exo-β-d-glucosaminidase.
Convenient Preparation of (Chlorodifluoromethyl)arenes. Useful Precursors for Aryldifluoromethyl Radicals
Authors: Yoshida Masato , Morinaga Yoshihiro , Ueda Masaaki , Kamigata Nobumasa , Iyoda Masahiko
Published: March 2006

Chlorodifluoromethyl group was introduced into aromatic rings using bis(chlorodifluoroacetyl) peroxide which was readily prepared from corresponding acid anhydride with 30% hydrogen peroxide, and the chlorine was successively replaced by hydrogen or allyl group in excellent yields under radical conditions.
Ready Preparation of Trialkoxyboranes and Dialkoxyboranes by LiBEt3H-Promoted Reaction of BH3 in Tetrahydrofuran with Alcohols
Authors: Masuda Yuzuru , Nunokawa Yutaka , Hoshi Masayuki , Arase Akira
Published: March 2006

A catalytic amount of LiBEt3H (1%) promoted markedly the reactions of BH3 in tetrahydrofuran (THF) with stoichiometric amounts of alcohols (1:2 and 1:3) to provide corresponding trialkoxyboranes and dialkoxyboranes quantitatively under mild reaction conditions.
Directed ortho Lithiation in the Reactions of 3,5-Dimethyl- and 5-Trifluoromethyl-1-phenylpyrazoles with Butyllithium
Authors: Iwata Satoru , Qian Cheng-Ping , Tanaka Kiyoshi
Published: March 2006

Lithiation of 3,5-dimethyl- and 5-trifluoromethyl-1-phenylpyrazoles with butyllithium is found to be directed to an ortho position. The ortho direction is ascribed to coordination of lithium with pyrazole 2-nitrogen or 5-trifluoromethyl group, respectively.
Photochemistry of 1,2,3-Benzotriazin-4-one in Matrices. A New Photochromic System Including Triazinone-Azoazetinone Photointerconvertion
Authors: Tomioka Hideo , Komatsu Kazunori
Published: March 2006

Irradiation (λ > 300 nm) of 3-methoxy-1,2,3-benzotriazin-4-one (3) matrix isolated in Ar at 10 K resulted in the formation of E- and Z-1-(methoxyazo)benzazetinones which reproduced 3 upon irradiation of light of λ > 350 nm, thus constituting a new photochromic system consisting of ternary components.
Electron Spin Resonance of the Quartet State of 1,3,5-Tris(diphenylamino)benzene
Authors: Yoshizawa Kazunari , Chano Akihisa , Ito Akihiro , Tanaka Kazuyoshi , Yamabe Tokio , Fujita Hideo , Yamauchi Jun
Published: March 2006

The electron spin resonance (ESR) of the quartet state of 1,3,5-tris(diphenylamino)benzene (TDAB) is reported. The orange-colored cationic radical is prepared by oxidation of TDAB with trifluoroacetic anhydride in a tetrabutylammonium tetrafluoroborate-CH2Cl2 solution. The ESR spectrum reveals that the cationic radical shows a typical quartet signal and that it is extremely stable at room temperature.
A New Picket-Fence Porphyrin Precursor. Synthesis and Atropisomerism of Free Base and Zinc Complex of meso-Tetra(o-methoxycarbonylphenyl)porphyrin
Authors: Fujimoto Tsutomu , Umekawa Hideki , Nishino Norikazu
Published: March 2006

A new “picket-fence” porphyrin precursor with carboxy terminal groups has been prepared. Four atropisomers of meso-tetra(o-methoxycarbonylphenyl)porphyrin have been separated by chromatography. The conformational stability of the αααα-isomer was examined to the prolonged heating for both free base and zinc complex. The usefulness of meso-tetra(o-carbonylphenyl)porphyrin appeared to be not at all inferior to well-known meso-tetra(o-aminophenyl)porphyrin.
An Efficient Method for the Preparation of Chiral Synthons Starting from Racemic Compounds by Way of Asymmetric Synthesis
Authors: Kobayashi Shu , Shiina Isamu , Izumi Jun , Mukaiyama Teruaki
Published: March 2006

Optically active α-alkoxy-α-methyl-β-hydroxy ester derivatives are prepared starting from racemic α-alkoxy propionic acid ester derivatives by way of asymmetric aldol reaction of the corresponding achiral intermediates. (−)-2-C-Methyl-D-threono-1,4-lactone is conveniently synthesized by using this methodology.
1H NMR Study of the Reaction of Iron(III) Porphyrins with NaBH4 in the Presence of Alkenes. Formation of Organoiron(III) Porphyrins
Authors: Setsune Jun-ichiro , Ishimaru Yoshihiro , Sera Akira
Published: March 2006

The treatment of [(tpp)FeIIICl] [tpp = tetraphenylporphyrin dianion] with NaBH4 in the presence of alkenes afforded σ-type organoiron(III) porphyrins, the structure of which was analyzed by paramagnetic 1H NMR. While 1-alkenes were hydrometallated to give σ-(1-methylalkyl)FeIII(tpp) along with a small amount of σ-(alkyl)FeIII(tpp), 2- and 3-alkenes yielded σ-(1-methylalkyl)FeIII(tpp) complexes without any regioisomers.
Lithium-Chlorine Exchange Reaction of α-Chloro α-Sulfonyl Ketones
Authors: Satoh Tsuyoshi , Shishikura Jun-ichi , Hayashi Yasumasa , Yamakawa Koji
Published: March 2006

Lithium-chlorine exchange of α-chloro α-sulfonyl ketones, easily prepared from 1-chloroalkyl aryl sulfoxides and aldehydes in good yields, with n-butyllithium gave α-sulfonyl ketones in high yields. Some trials to trap the enolate intermediate were carried out.
CO2 Hydrogenation over Carbide Catalysts
Authors: Dubois Jean-Luc , Sayama Kazuhiro , Arakawa Hironori
Published: March 2006

Carbides such as Mo2C, Fe3C, and WC have proved to be effective catalysts for hydrogenation of CO2. Mo2C and Fe3C showed high CO2 conversion and good methanol selectivity at 220 °C. A considerable amount of dimethylether was produced over WC. TaC and SiC were almost inactive. Copper promoted carbide catalysts were also tested for CO2 hydrogenation.
Mutual Separation Characteristics for Lanthanoid Elements via Gas Phase Complexes with Alkaline Chlorides
Authors: Adachi Gin-ya , Murase Kuniaki , Shinozaki Kiyoshi , Machida Ken-ichi
Published: March 2006

Mutual separation characteristics of lanthanoid chlorides LnCl3 (Ln = Pr, Nd) using a chemical vapor transporting method via gaseous complexes were investigated. Compared with AlCl3 as the transporting agent, alkaline chlorides can transport more amounts of LnCl3, and enhance the separation efficiency between PrCl3 and NdCl3.
Theoretical Consideration on Photochromism of an Oxide Doped with Transition-Metal Ions in Strong Electric Field
Authors: Kobayashi Kenkichiro , Matsushima Shigenori , Okada Genji
Published: March 2006

We propose a new principle of an optical memory using photoionization of transition-metal ions doped into an oxide which is kept in strong electric field. Several conditions required to realize an optical memory are present.
Synthesis of Medium Ring 1,5-Dienes
Authors: Usui Shuji , Haino Takeharu , Hayashibara Tatsuhiko , Hirai Yoshimasa , Fukazawa Yoshimasa , Kodama Mitsuaki
Published: March 2006

Medium ring compounds (9 to 11 membered rings) having endo (E or Z) and exo double bonds at 1,5-positions were synthesized by intramolecular cyclization of the ω-functionalyzed allylic anion stabilized by a sulfur atom. The yields of cyclization were related not only with the cyclization enthalpy (steric strain of the resultant cyclic compounds) but also with entropy factor.
Synthesis and Surface Properties of Perfluoro-oxa-alkylated Oligomers
Authors: Sawada Hideo , Gong Yue-Fa , Matsumoto Takeo , Kosugi Masanori , Migita Toshihiko
Published: March 2006

New perfluoro-oxa-alkylated oligomers were obtained by the reactions of methacrylate monomers with perfluoro-oxa-alkanoyl peroxides under very mild conditions, and the perfluoro-oxa-alkylated oligomers containing hydroxyl ethylene oxide units were found to indicate surface properties typical of the amphipathic compounds.
Reaction of Chalcone Derivatives with Aromatic Aldehydes Promoted by Ytterbium Metal
Authors: Takaki Ken , Beppu Fumikazu , Nakagawa Ikuko , Fujiwara Yuzo
Published: March 2006

Ytterbium metal promoted reaction of chalcone with equimolar amount of benzaldehyde gave 2-benzoyl-5-phenylhydroxymethyl-1,3,4-triphenylcyclopentanol, whereas 2,5-bis(benzoyl)cyclopentanol was obtained by the reaction with excess amount of the aldehyde. In addition, similar reaction of 3-anisyl-1-phenyl-2-propen-1-one with anisaldehyde afforded 2:2 adduct, 5-[anisyl(anisylmethoxy)methyl]cyclopentanol, irrespective of amount of the aldehyde.
Acid Dissociation and Activation Parameters for Ring Inversion of Diaminocalix[4]arene
Authors: Araki Koji , Murakami Hiroto , Ohseto Fumio , Shinkai Seiji
Published: March 2006

pKa Values and activation parameters for ring inversion of 25,27-diamino-5,11,17,23-tetra-t-butylcalix[4]arene-26,28-diol were estimated. It was found that in the OH groups of this compound the “super-acidic” proton, observed for conventional calix[4]arene-25,26,27,28-tetrols, no longer exists and ring inversion occurs more easily.
α-Hydrazono-β-keto Esters as Command Molecules
Authors: Yamamura Shigeo , Tamaki Takashi , Seki Takahiro , Sakuragi Masako , Kawanishi Yuji , Ichimura Kunihiro
Published: March 2006

The nematic director alignment in the liquid crystal cell was reversibly regulated by geometrical isomerization of α-hydrazono-β-keto ester derivatives directly linked on the substrate surface. The reversible change in the shape of the photochromic molecules may be responsible for regulating the alignment of the nematic liquid crystals.
A Novel Type of Chiral Diphosphine Ligand, trans-2,3-Bis(diphenylphosphino)-1-methyl-1-cyclopropanecarboxylic Acid and Asymmetric Allylic Alkylation by the Use of Its Palladium Complex
Authors: Okada Yoshiharu , Minami Toru , Yamamoto Tsutomu , Ichikawa Junji
Published: March 2006

Optically active trans-2,3-bis(diphenylphosphino)-1-methyl-1-cyclopropanecarboxylic acid was synthesized from trans-1,2-bis(diphenylphosphinyl)ethene via resolution of the racemic diphosphine oxide. Asymmetric allylic alkylation of 2-cyclohexenyl acetate with l-menthyl sodiodiethylphosphonoacetate was achieved in good optical yields by the use of its palladium complex.
A Practical, Highly Stereoselective Synthesis of the Trisaccharide Repeating Unit of a Streptococcus pneumoniae Polysaccharide
Authors: Kaji Eisuke , Lichtenthaler Frieder W , Osa Yumiko , Takahashi Keiko , Matsui Eiko , Zen Shonosuke
Published: March 2006

A highly stereoselective method has been developed for the synthesis of the trisaccharide component of the capsular polysaccharide of Streptococcus pneumoniae type 19F. The key intermediate, 2-benzoyloxyiminoglycosyl bromide was successfully utilized for the construction of the N-acetyl-β-D-mannosamine unit of the trisaccharide.
Orientation Control of Quinacridone Derivatives with Long Alkyl Chains in Langmuir-Blodgett Films
Authors: Nakahara Hiroo , Kitahara Kiyoshi , Nishi Hisao , Fukuda Kiyoshige
Published: March 2006

By introducing four alkyl chains to quinacridone, the soluble derivatives can be spread as monolayers on water surface and their surface pressure – area isotherms were found to depend significantly on the temperature and the alkyl chain length. Different orientations and packings were realized, depending on the alkyl substituents.
Oxygen-Dependent Photoreactions of 3-Substituted N-Methylpyridinium in Methanol
Authors: Ohkoshi Shin-ichi , Ohhata Keishi , Okumura Koichi , Kajitani Masatsugu , Sugiyama Toru , Sakaguchi Yoshio , Nakamura Junko , Hayashi Hisaharu , Sugimori Akira
Published: March 2006

The photoreactions of 3-methoxycarbonyl-N-methylpyridinium perchlorate (1a) and 3-carbamoyl-N-methylpyridinium perchlorate (1b) under N2 give the products methylated at the 6- and 4-positions in methanol. Under O2, the photoreaction of 1a is drastically changed to give a product methoxylated at the 2-position and hydroxylated at the 5-position simultaneously. This compound is unstable and changes to 5-hydroxy-3-methoxycarbonyl-N-methyl-2-pyridone (5a). Only one atom of O2 is incorporated in 5a. The photoreaction of 1b is completely inhibited by O2.
Easy Separation of the Cis-syn-Cis and Cis-anti-Cis Isomers of Dicyclohexyl-18-crown-6
Authors: Guyon Vincent , Landre Philippe Drognat , Guy Alain , Foos Jacques , Lemaire Marc
Published: March 2006

The separation of the cis-anti-cis and the cis-syn-cis isomers of DCH18C6 from a mixture of cis isomers of commercial DCH18C6 is achieved by selective crystallization of the uranyl nitrate/DCH18C6 cis-anti-cis complex.
High Selective Solvent Extraction of Palladium(II), Rhodium(III), and Platinum(IV) with 2-Ethylhexylaminomethylpyridine from Hydrochloric Acid
Authors: Baba Yoshinari , Fukumoto Toshihiro
Published: March 2006

2-Ethylhexylaminomethylpyridine can extract Pd(II), Rh(III) and Pt(IV) with excellent selectivity over Cu(II), Ni(II), Co(II), Cd(II), Zn(II), and Ir(III) from the aqueous hydrochloric acid solution. It forms 1:1 complexes with palladium(II), rhodium(III), and platinum(IV) ions accompanied by chloride ions.
Synthesis and Characterization of Barium(II) Macrobicyclic Complexes and Related Compounds
Authors: Tsubomura Taro , Sato Tadanobu , Yasaku Kouichi , Sakai Ken , Kobayashi Kimiko , Morita Makoto
Published: March 2006

New mononuclear metal-cage complexes of a macrobicyclic ligand, pytren (metal = Ba(II), K(I), and Cs(I) and pytren = 1,4,12,15,18,26,31,39,42,43,44-undeca-azapentacyclo[13.13.13.16,10.120,24.133,37]tetratetraconta-4,6(42),7,9,11,18,20(43),21,23,25,31,33(44),34,36,38-pentadecaene), were prepared and characterized including the crystal structure analysis of [Ba(pytren)](B(C6H5)4)2.
Molecular Complex Formation of Diphenyl Selenides with Bromine. Electronic and Steric Requirements
Authors: Nakanishi Waro , Hayashi Satoko , Nakamura Yosuke , Iwamura Hiizu
Published: March 2006

The structure of o-, m-, and p-substituted diphenyl selenide dibromides (ArSeBr2Ar′) is described. The adducts were MC’s for Ar = Ar′ = 2-ClC6H4, 3- and 4-NCC6H4, 3- and 4-O2NC6H4, 3,5-Cl2C6H3, and 2,4,6-Me3C6H2, while they were TB’s for Ar = Ar′ = 2-MeC6H4 and 4-EtOCOC6H4 and (Ar, Ar′) = (3,5-(O2N)2C6H3, Ph). The electronic and steric requirements were discussed based on the CV data of the parent selenides.
Sol-Gel Phase Transition of Switch-Functionalized Cholesterols as Detected by Circular Dichroism
Authors: Murata Kazutaka , Aoki Masayoshi , Shinkai Seiji
Published: March 2006

Cholesterol derivatives containing an azobenzene moiety coupled to C3 of a steroidal moiety showed the reversible sol-gel phase transition in certain organic solvents. Strong ICD spectra appeared in the gel phase, but the ICD disappeared in the sol phase. The sol-gel phase transition which accompanies the drastic ICD spectral change was synchronously induced by light-mediated cis-trans isomerism of the azobenzene moiety.
A Novel Role of Methanol in In-Cage Reaction of Radical Cations During Photosensitized C–C Bond Cleavage of 1,1,2,2-Tetraphenylethane
Authors: Ishiguro Katsuya , Osaki Toshihiko , Sawaki Yasuhiko
Published: March 2006

The C-C bond cleavage in the photosensitized one-electron oxidation of 1,1,2,2-tetraphenylethane in MeCN was significantly reduced by the addition of MeOH. A laser flash study revealed that protic solvents suppressed the formation of dissociated cation radicals but not that of sensitizer anions. A novel synergistic oxidation of solvent methanol with ion pairs is suggested.
High Dioxygen Uptake by Hetero-Metal Binuclear Co(II)-Fe(II)-Schiff Base Complexes Systems in Dimethyl Sulfoxide
Authors: Abe Yuriko , Shinguhara Kyoko , Yano Shigenobu
Published: March 2006

Reactions of N,N′-ethylenenbis(salicylideneiminato)cobalt(II), Co(salen), and its ring-substituted analogues with Fe2+ ion under nitrogen atmosphere in dimethyl sulfoxide readily afforded hetero-metal binuclear Co(II)-Fe(II)-Schiff base complexes, which have much higher uptake for dioxygen than do only the Co(II) Schiff base complexes.
Upgrading of Coal Liquid on Pentasil Type Ga-Silicate
Authors: Inui Tomoyuki , Tu Xinlin , Goto Akihito , Inoue Masashi
Published: March 2006

Although coal liquid showed negligible reactivity on the pentasil type Ga-silicate because of the presence of inhibitors, it significantly increased in reactivity by washing with polar organic solvents and afforded BTX in a 60% yield.
A New Class of Mesomorphic Materials Designed from Calix[n]arenes
Authors: Komori Takashi , Shinkai Seiji
Published: March 2006

O-Methylated calix[n]arenas (n = 4, 6, and 8) coupled to C6H4-p-CmH2m+1 (m = 8, 12, 14, and 16) via an azomethine linkage were synthesized. It was found that some of them show stable flow birefringence or readily form stable liquid crystals.
Synthesis of Novel Neutral Five-coordinated Pt(II) Complexes Comprised of π-Acceptor Ligands Alone and Their Application to Electrophilic Activation of C-H Bond of Saturated Hydrocarbons
Authors: Yamakawa Tetsu , Fujita Toshio , Shinoda Sumio
Published: March 2006

Neutral five-coordinated platinum(II) complexes ([Pt(SnCl3)2(P(OR)3)3]; R = Me, Et) with high solubility to hydrocarbon solvents have been newly synthesized. The characteristic ligand composition (all π-acceptor ligands) gives the Pt(II) center both enhanced electrophilicity and stability against reduction, due to which thermal (non-photolytic) catalytic dehydrogenation of cyclooctane in homogeneous solutions was achieved under mild reaction conditions, including electrophilic C-H bond activation.
Enantioselective Alkylation of Hydrophobic Vitamin B12 Bearing a Binaphthyl Moiety
Authors: Murakami Yukito , Hisaeda Yoshio , Kohno Hiroshi , Ohno Teruhisa
Published: March 2006

The enantioselective alkylation of hydrophobia vitamin B12 derivatives at the β-axial site was examined in methanol with various alkyl bromides, and those B12 analogues bearing a peripheral binaphthyl moiety showed the highest S-selectivity toward enantiomeric alkyl bromides among vitamin B12 models as caused by a steric effect of the peripheral substituent.
Rotamers of 1-Phenylethylamine Ligands in (R,S)- and (S,S)-trans-Bis(succinimidato)-bis(1-phenylethylamine)palladium(II) Complexes
Authors: Shimomura Hiroshi , Komorita Seiko , Kuma Hiro , Kushi Yoshihiko
Published: March 2006

Both trans-[Pd(succim)2(R-phenea)(S-phenea)] and trans-[Pd(Succim)2(S-phenea)2] (succim = succinimidate, phenea = 1-phenylethylamine) were prepared and their crystal structures were determined by X-ray analysis. Three different staggered rotamers around N-C bond of the phenea ligands have been found.
Characterization of the Sulfonic Esters Adopting a Folded Conformation with Stacked Aromatic Moieties
Authors: Nagao Yoshimitsu , Sano Shigeki , Nakagawa Satoshi , Tanaka Miho , Shiro Motoo , Taga Tohru
Published: March 2006

Systematic characterization of several molecules, adopting a folded conformation with stacked aromatic moieties, is investigated by utilizing X-ray crystallographic and 1H NMR analyses. Bridging two aromatic moieties with a sulfonic ester bond proved to be a significant factor for adopting a folded conformation.
Liquid-Phase Hydrogenation of Crotonaldehyde over Silver-Manganese Oxide Catalyst
Authors: Nagase Yoshinori , Nakamura Hironobu , Yazawa Yutaka , Imamoto Takako
Published: March 2006

The liquid-phase hydrogenation of crotonaldehyde has been investigated over silver-manganese oxide catalyst. The selectivity to 2-buten-1-ol was 71.8% at a conversion of crotonaldehyde of 85.1%.
Sensitization of Edman Amino Acid Derivatives Using the Electron Capture Sensitive Reagent, 1-Trifluoro-2-amino-ethane
Authors: Jone Carl S , Kamo Masaharu , Sano Mitsuru , Tsugita Akira
Published: March 2006

2-Anilino-5-thiazolinone amino acids, intermediates of Edman degradation, were reacted with 1-trifluoro-2-amino-ethane in vapor phase. The products were analysed by gas chromatography using an electron capture detector. The reaction was quantitative and capable of being used for micro amount of protein because the large excess of gas phase reagent was easily removed after the reaction. Sensitivity of detection of the reaction product was about 50 femtomole.
Assessing the welfare of genetically altered mice
Authors: Wells D J , Playle L C , Enser W E J , Flecknell P A , Gardiner M A , Holland J , Howard B R , Hubrecht R , Humphreys K R , Jackson I J , Lane N , Maconochie M , Mason G , Morton D B , Raymond R , Robinson V , Smith J A , Watt N
Published: March 2006

In 2003, under the auspices of the main UK funders of biological and biomedical research, a working group was established with a remit to review potential welfare issues for genetically altered (GA) mice, to summarize current practice, and to recommend contemporary best practice for welfare assessments. The working group has produced a report which makes practical recommendations for GA mouse welfare assessment and dissemination of welfare information between establishments using a 'mouse passport'. The report can be found at www.nc3rs.org.uk/GAmice and www.lal.org.uk/gaa and includes templates for the recommended welfare assessment scheme and the mouse passport. An overview is provided below.
Role of TNF-α in prenatal alterations in dams of mice under thermal stress
Authors: Kumar Pradeep , Rathore Brijesh , Saxena Ashok Kumar , Purohit Dinesh Chand , Mathur Neeraj , Paul Bhola Nath
Published: March 2006

The possible involvement of cytokines such as tumour necrosis factor- α (TNF- α), interleukin-1 β (IL-1 β) and interferon- γ (IFN- γ) that are suspected of causing pregnancy loss and miscarriage has been investigated in dams of mice subjected to hyperthermia. Thermal stress was induced by exposing mice dams at 40±2°C for 4 h every day during the different phases of the gestation period whereas the normothermic animals were housed at 22±2°C. The effect of maternal thermal stress was measured in pregnant mice at different phases of the gestation period namely, blastogenesis-implantation phase (days 0–5 postconceptionem [p.c.]), organogenesis or embryogenesis phase (days 6–15 p.c.) and fetogenesis phase (days 16–20 p.c.). Uterine examination of dams subjected to hyperthermia on days 6–15 p.c. showed maximum reduction in live fetus number, gestational index and maximum preand postimplantation loss in comparison with dams housed in normothermic environment and dams exposed to thermal stress between days 0–5 and 16–20 p.c. Maximum resorption rate and number of non-viable fetuses were observed in dams exposed to hyperthermia during days 6–15 p.c. Elevated levels of TNF- α and IL-1 β were observed in the amniotic fluid of dams subjected to hyperthermia during days 6–15 p.c. but IFN- γ levels remained unaltered. Single intraperitoneal (i.p.) administration of recombinant mouse TNF- α at a dose of 1 and 0.5 ng/mice in dams on day 6 in normothermic condition resulted in a reduced number of live fetuses. Administration of anti-TNF- α antibody i.p. at a dose of 10 μg/dam on day 6 p.c. and subjected to thermal stress between days 6–15 p.c. increased marginally the number of fetuses but failed to attain statistical significance in comparison with days 6–15 p.c. thermally stressed dams without antibody treatment. It is concluded that the induction of TNF- α, in the amniotic fluid is associated with thermal stress during pregnancy and may be linked to the reproductive performances of dams. This study will help in understanding the mechanism of thermal injury in pregnant subjects.