bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Localization of the large subunit of replication factor C near the 5′ end of DNA primers
Authors: Kolpashchikov Dmitry M. , Hughes Patrick , Favre Alain , Baldacci Giuseppe , Lavrik Olga I.
Published: August 2002

Replication factor C (RFC) is a heteropentameric sliding clamp loader protein essential for processive synthesis of DNA by eukaryotic DNA polymerases δ and ϵ. To study the interaction of RFC with 3′ and 5′ ends of the DNA primer, we have developed chemical photocrosslinking assay using a synthetic DNA gap and DNA primer‐template structures. We have found that the radioactively labeled primers containing a photoreactive group at their 5′ end could crosslink with the largest RFC subunit (RFC140) on primer‐templates and DNA gap structures, but that 3′ end photoreactive primers could only crosslink with RFC140 within the DNA gap structure. Addition of replication protein A (RPA) to the reaction mixture resulted in the crosslinking of RPA subunits and inhibited crosslinking of RFC140 using 3′ but not 5′ photoreactive primers present at the gap. The results suggest specific contacts between RFC140 and the 5′ end of the DNA primer. Together with previous data, these experiments allow us to propose a model for the DNA polymerase switch during eukaryotic DNA replication. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Applications of novel affinity cassette methods: use of peptide fusion handles for the purification of recombinant proteins
Authors: Hearn Milton T W , Acosta Danilo
Published: August 2002

In this article, recent progress related to the use of different types of polypeptide fusion handles or ‘tags’ for the purification of recombinant proteins are critically discussed. In addition, novel aspects of the molecular cassette concept are elaborated, together with areas of potential application of these fundamental principles in molecular recognition. As evident from this review, the use of these concepts provides a powerful strategy for the high throughput isolation and purification of recombinant proteins and their derived domains, generated from functional genomic or zeomic studies, as part of the bioprocess technology leading to their commercial development, and in the study of molecular recognition phenomena per se. In addition, similar concepts can be exploited for high sensitivity analysis and detection, for the characterisation of protein bait/prey interactions at the molecular level, and for the immobilisation and directed orientation of proteins for use as biocatalysts/biosensors. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Magnetic resonance imaging of inflammatory bowel disease: Evaluation in a rabbit model
Authors: Knollmann Friedrich D. , Dietrich Thore , Bleckmann Tim , Böck Johannes , Mäurer Jürgen , Radtke Cornelia , Felix Roland
Published: August 2002

Purpose

To correlate intestinal contrast enhancement and wall thickening with the degree of inflammation in an experimental model of inflammatory bowel disease.

Materials and Methods

Inflammatory bowel disease was elicited in 39 New Zealand White rabbits by rectal instillation of 2,4,6‐trinitrobenzene sulphonic acid (TNBA). Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was used to determine bowel wall thickness and intestinal contrast enhancement after the administration of 0.1 mmol/kg of gadodiamide intravenously. MR measurements were compared with the complete histopathologic analysis.

Results

MR measurements of bowel wall thickness correlated well with histopathologic measurements in vitro (r = 0.85, P < 0.0001) and with histopathologic evidence of chronic inflammatory bowel disease (P < 0.02). Chronic inflammation was characterized by increased intestinal contrast enhancement (137 ± 25%) when compared to normal bowel (86 ± 7%, P = 0.04).

Conclusion

Contrast‐enhanced MRI accurately reflects inflammatory bowel disease in the rabbit model. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2002;15:165–173. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Implications of bulk motion for diffusion‐weighted imaging experiments: Effects, mechanisms, and solutions
Authors: Norris David G.
Published: August 2002

This review article describes the effect of bulk motion on diffusion‐weighted imaging experiments, and examines methods for correcting the resulting artifacts. The emphasis throughout the article is on two‐dimensional imaging of the brain. The effects of translational and rotational motion on the MR signal are described, and the literature concerning pulsatile brain motion is examined. Methods for ameliorating motion effects are divided into three generic categories. The first is methods that should be intrinsically insensitive to macroscopic motion. These include motion‐compensated diffusion‐weighting schemes, single‐shot EPI, projection reconstruction, and line scanning. Of these, only single‐shot EPI and projection reconstruction methods can obtain high‐quality images without compromising on sensitivity. The second category of methods is those that can be made insensitive to bulk motion. The methods examined here are FLASH and RARE. It is shown that for both sequences motion insensitivity is in general attained only at the cost of a 50% reduction in sensitivity. The final set of methods examined are those that correct for motion, primarily navigator echoes. The properties and limitations of the navigator echo approach are presented, as are those of methods which attempt to correct the acquired data by minimizing image artifacts. The review concludes with a short summary in which the current status of diffusion imaging in the presence of bulk motion is examined. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2001;13:486–495. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Uterine fibroid embolization: Assessment of treatment response using perfusion‐weighted extraslice spin tagging (EST) magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Hagspiel Klaus D. , Matsumoto Alan H. , Berr Stuart S.
Published: August 2002

In this pilot study, we demonstrate the feasibility of using an arterial spin tagging technique, Extraslice Spin Tagging (EST), to assess tumor perfusion before and after uterine fibroid embolization (UFE) and correlate the changes in perfusion with fibroid size reduction. We followed two patient volunteers over a six‐month period. The perfusion‐weighted image intensity decreased immediately after UFE. The size of the tumor decreased by 14% immediately after UFE and continued to decrease over a six‐month period to 84%. The imaging methods presented allow for rapid measurement of tumor volume and the evaluation of perfusion of the tumor without the need for intravenous administration of gadolinium compounds. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2001;13:982–986. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Functional evaluation with intravoxel incoherent motion echo‐planar MRI in irradiated salivary glands: A correlative study with salivary gland scintigraphy
Authors: Zhang Lin , Murata Yuji , Ishida Ryuji , Ohashi Isamu , Yoshimura Ryoich , Shibuya Hitoshi
Published: August 2002

The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) measured on intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) echo‐planar magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and salivary gland function. Twenty‐one patients with head and neck malignancies underwent MRI and salivary gland scintigraphy before and after radiotherapy. Based on the scintigraphic results, each major salivary gland was classified into two groups (dysfunctional and functional) and ADCs measured on IVIM MRI were compared between the two groups. Furthermore, the relationship of ADC to scintigraphic parameters, maximum accumulation (MA), and the uptake ratio (UR), were analyzed. ADCs of the dysfunctional group decreased significantly after radiotherapy (P < .01), whereas those of the functional group showed no significant change. Furthermore, positive correlations were found between the ADC ratio and both MA (P < .005) and UR (P < .001). ADC measurement on IVIM echo‐planar MRI is a potentially useful means of evaluating salivary gland function. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2001;14: 223–229. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Temporal dynamics of blood flow effects in half‐Fourier fast spin echo 1H magnetic resonance imaging of the human lungs
Authors: Knight‐Scott Jack , Keilholz‐George Shella D. , Mai Vu M. , Christopher John M.
Published: August 2002

A cardiac‐triggered half‐Fourier single‐shot turbo spin echo (HASTE) technique is currently the method of choice for MR imaging of the lung parenchyma without the use of exogenous contrast agents. In this study, we specifically examined the effects of the cardiac cycle on the HASTE signal intensity of the lungs. Images were obtained from six healthy human volunteers at an end expiration breath‐hold using a HASTE sequence and a variable cardiac‐triggered delay time. Analysis of the data sets showed a 30% decrease in the lung signal intensity during systole, and a 15% decrease during mid‐diastole. These decreases correlate with phases of the cardiac cycle when the blood flow in the lungs is expected to be greatest. Misregistration artifacts, particularly from the pulmonary arteries and aorta, are worse during these periods of signal decrease. To minimize cardiac dependent signal losses, HASTE lung imaging should be performed after systole but before rapid filling of the ventricles.J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2001;14:411–418. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
MRI of the foot and ankle: Prevalence and distribution of occult and palpable ganglia
Authors: Weishaupt Dominik , Schweitzer Mark E. , Morrison William B. , Haims Andrew H. , Wapner Keith , Kahn Mitchell
Published: August 2002

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the prevalence and anatomic distribution of occult and palpable ganglia of the foot and ankle as seen by MRI. Within a 7‐year period MRI of the ankle was performed on 2813 patients, and MRI of the foot on 2277 patients using a 1.5T magnet. In all, 167 ganglia in 155 patients were detected. MR images of these patients were reviewed retrospectively by two observers with regard to prevalence, imaging characteristics, and exact anatomic location of ganglia. Clinical findings and (when available) surgical reports were also reviewed. One hundred fifty‐seven ganglia in 145 patients were present on MR images of the ankle, and 10 ganglia in 10 patients on MR images of the foot, resulting in a prevalence of 5.6% (157/2813) in the ankle, and a prevalence of 0.4% (10/2277) in the foot. The most common location was the tarsal sinus or tarsal canal (57/167 ganglia [34.1%]). However, only four of these (7%) were palpable as a soft‐tissue mass. The second most common location was around the Lisfranc joint (23/167 [13.8%]), of which 11/23 [47.8%] were clinically palpable. Palpable ganglia were statistically larger in size than occult ganglia measured in any of three diameters (P = 0.01–0.002). In addition, ganglia of the foot and ankle represented 42% of all clinically suspected soft‐tissue masses. Ganglia in the foot and ankle are an infrequent finding on routine MRI of the foot and ankle. When they occur, these ganglia are most frequently located in the tarsal sinus and tarsal canal, where they are occult to clinical palpation. If ganglia are clinically palpable, they are most commonly located around the Lisfranc joint. In addition, palpable ganglia are larger than occult ganglia. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2001;14:464–471. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Detectability of pulmonary perfusion defect and influence of breath holding on contrast‐enhanced thick‐slice 2D and on 3D MR pulmonary perfusion images
Authors: Matsuoka Shin , Uchiyama Katsuhiro , Shima Hideki , Terakoshi Hiroaki , Nojiri Yoko , Oishi Sonomi , Ogata Hitoshi
Published: August 2002

The present study assesses the detectability of perfusion defect and the influence of breathhold on pulmonary magnetic resonance (MR) perfusion imaging using contrast‐enhanced thick‐slice two‐dimensional (2D) fast gradient‐echo sequence compared with three‐dimensional (3D) fast spoiled gradient‐recalled sequence. Dynamic studies were performed in 16 patients. MR perfusion images were interpreted by two independent observers using perfusion scintigraphy as the reference standard. The patients were divided into two groups according to the duration of holding the breath measured during MR imaging. The sensitivity and specificity of 2D MR perfusion imaging in detecting perfusion defects were 93% and 94%, respectively, while those of 3D MR perfusion imaging were 89% and 85%, respectively. The diagnostic accuracy of 2D MR perfusion imaging was significantly higher than that of 3D MR perfusion imaging (P < 0.05) among those who could not hold their breath. Therefore, 2D MR perfusion imaging offers promise for evaluating pulmonary perfusion even among patients who cannot hold their breath. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2001;14:580–585. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Hepatitis B virus DNA in serum of healthy black African adults positive for hepatitis B surface antibody alone: possible association with recombination between genotypes A and D
Authors: Owiredu William K.B.A , Kramvis Anna , Kew Michael C.
Published: August 2002

In some patients with chronic liver disease induced by hepatitis B virus, viral DNA is known to persist in low concentration in serum after seroconversion to hepatitis B surface antibody‐positivity. This phenomenon has, however, not been documented in asymptomatic black African carriers of hepatitis B virus. Using nested amplification by the polymerase chain reaction, we detected low concentrations of hepatitis B virus DNA in the serum of 6 of 23 (26%) healthy black African adults with normal liver function and with hepatitis B virus surface antibody as the only serological marker of the virus. This finding offers one explanation for the earlier observation of integrated hepatitis B virus DNA in hepatocellular carcinomas in black Africans whose serum was positive for surface antibody alone. A number of genetic changes were found in the six isolates that might be responsible for evasion of the immune response and persistence of the virus. Isolated mutations were detected in the “a” determinant of the surface gene and in the encapsidation signal. In all five isolates sequenced in the core promoter, mutations were present in the upstream regulatory region. Recombination between genotypes A and D was present in three of the isolates, including both of those in which the entire genome was sequenced. This change in genotype also overlapped the amino end of the polymerase domain and may result in sufficiently low levels of replication to allow viral persistence. Topoisomerase 1 specific trinucleotides were concentrated in the vicinity of the recombination breakpoints. J. Med. Virol. 64:441–454, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Recovery of adult oligodendrocytes is preceded by a “lag period” accompanied by upregulation of transcription factors expressed in developing young cells
Authors: Afshari Fatemah S. , Chu Annie K. , Sato‐Bigbee Carmen
Published: August 2002

Cell cultures prepared from oligodendrocytes directly obtained from adult rat brain are composed of mature cells that lose their cell processes and myelin membrane during their isolation and therefore represent a very useful model to investigate the factors that could stimulate their recovery. We have observed that mature oligodendrocytes isolated from adult animals remain as round cells that lack processes for the first 3–4 days in culture. At the end of this lag period, however, the majority of the adult oligodendrocytes show a remarkable recovery, rapidly growing complex and extensive cell processes. Interestingly, the end of this lag period is accompanied by a dramatic upregulation in the expression of thyroid hormone (T3) receptor (TR). The functional importance of this increase in TR levels is supported by the observation that the majority of the cells cultured in the presence of T3 show significantly more extensive and complex process outgrowth than the control cells in cultures lacking this hormone. In addition, this reactivation of the adult cells was also preceded by an increased expression of glucocorticoid receptor (GR) and cyclic AMP‐response element binding protein (CREB), two transcription factors that together with TR appear to play important roles in the control of neonatal oligodendrocyte development. Thus, it is possible to hypothesize that upregulation of these proteins may be part of the metabolic changes that occur during the lag period required for recovery of the adult oligodendrocytes. These observations raise the question of whether these transcription factors may play any significant role during remyelination after demyelinating lesions of adult CNS. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Regulation of kynurenic acid synthesis in C6 glioma cells
Authors: Kocki Tomasz , Dolińska Monika , Dybel Anna , Urbańska Ewa M. , Turski Waldemar A. , Albrecht Jan
Published: August 2002

Studies with brain slices have provided evidence that synthesis of kynurenic acid (KYNA) from kynurenine (KYN), which occurs in astrocytes, is modulated by changes in the ionic composition of the medium and the presence of depolarizing agents or the excitatory amino acid glutamate (Glu). The present study analyzed the effects of changes in incubation medium on KYNA synthesis in cultured C6 glioma cells. The synthesis was not affected by omission of Na+ and raising K+ concentration to 50 mM, conditions that in brain slices stimulate or inhibit KYNA formation, respectively. KYNA synthesis in C6 cells was inhibited by the absence of Ca2+, which contrasts with its Ca2+ independence in brain slices. Also, lack of Mg2+ and addition of a chloride channel blocker, 4‐acetamido‐4′‐isothiocyanatostilbene‐2,2′‐disulfonate (SITS), did not affect the synthesis. KYNA synthesis in C6 cells was dose dependently inhibited by Glu. The inhibitory effect of Glu was not affected by GDPβS, an antagonist of metabotropic Glu receptors, the receptor class prevailing in C6 cells, suggesting that Glu acted intracellularly. NH4Cl and veratridine decreased KYNA production, mirroring the effects noted in brain slices. KYNA synthesis was strongly reduced in the presence of leucine (Leu), and the uptake of [14C]Leu was inhibited by the KYNA precursor KYN, which points to Leu as a potential endogenous modulator of KYNA formation in CNS cells. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Differential in vitro degradation of particular Fos family members expressed by kainic acid in nuclear and cytosolic fractions of murine hippocampus
Authors: Manabe Takayuki , Ogita Kiyokazu , Nakamichi Noritaka , Yoneda Yukio
Published: August 2002

Mice were injected with kainic acid (KA) at a convulsive dose, followed by homogenization of the hippocampus in the presence of different protease and phosphatase inhibitors, and subsequent preparation of nuclear and cytosolic fractions. An intraperitoneal injection of KA resulted in marked expression of particular Fos family members, including c‐Fos, Fra‐2, and Fos‐B, but not Fra‐1 proteins, in both fractions 2 to 18 h after administration. These fractions were individually incubated at 30°C for 1 to 18 h for determination of in vitro degradation. Similarly rapid degradation was seen with c‐Fos protein between nuclear fractions obtained 2 and 18 h after administration, while no significant degradation was found for c‐Fos protein in cytosolic fractions obtained 2 h after administration during incubation. By contrast, in vitro incubation led to rapid degradation of c‐Fos protein in cytosolic fractions obtained 18 h after administration. Degradation profiles were peculiar to each member protein in nuclear and cytosolic fractions obtained 2 and 18 h after administration. Dialysis prevented degradation of c‐Fos protein in nuclear fractions without markedly affecting that in cytosolic fractions in a manner independent of the time after administration. The addition of inhibitors for phosphatases, but not for proteases, accelerated the degradation of c‐Fos protein in nuclear fractions previously dialyzed. These results suggest that in vivo KA signals may modulate heterologous machineries responsible for breakdown of each Fos family member in a unique manner in nuclear fractions, rather than cytosolic fractions, of murine hippocampus. J. Neurosci. Res. 64:34–42, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
TrkA induces differentiation but not apoptosis in C6‐2B glioma cells
Authors: Pflug Beth R. , Colangelo Anna Maria , Tornatore Carlo , Mocchetti Italo
Published: August 2002

Nerve growth factor (NGF) binds to the TrkA tyrosine kinase and the p75 neurotrophin receptors. Depending upon which receptor is activated, NGF can induce differentiation or apoptosis. C6‐2B glioma cells express the p75 receptor, but NGF decreases their growth only when TrkA is introduced (C6trk). It is unclear, however, whether TrkA reduces C6‐2B cell growth by apoptosis or differentiation. To examine which mechanisms account for the anti‐proliferative effect of NGF in these cells, we first analyzed whether NGF causes apoptosis by flow cytometry, two‐site immunoassay and in situ TUNEL. None of these methods indicated that C6trk undergo apoptosis. Additional apoptotic markers, such as Bcl‐2, Bax, Bad, p53, caspase 3, and NF‐κB were also used. C6trk cells exhibited lower levels of Bcl‐2 compared with the parental C6 mock cells, but no changes in the levels of other apoptotic proteins. Moreover, NGF increased AP‐1 binding activity in C6trk cells, suggesting that NGF may induce differentiation. We then examined whether TrkA changes the glioma phenotype. In C6trk cells, but not in C6mock cells, NGF enhanced the levels of neuron‐specific enolase as well as the levels of A2B5 and 2′, 3′‐cyclic nucleotide 3′‐phosphodiesterase, markers for oligodendrocytes, without affecting the expression of other neuronal markers. Our data suggest that the antiproliferative properties of TrkA may rely on its ability to induce differentiation of C6 cells from undifferentiated glioma to oligodendrocytes. J. Neurosci. Res. 64:636–645, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Nitric oxide synthase/nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate‐diaphorase in the brainstem trigeminal nuclei after transection of the masseteric nerve in rats
Authors: Varathan Vidya , Shigenaga Yoshio , Takemura Motohide
Published: August 2002

In this study, the responses of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate‐diaphorase (NADPH‐d) and neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) activities were quantitatively analyzed at different times in both ipsilateral and contralateral sides of trigeminal nuclei, after unilateral trigeminal muscle nerve transection, in Sprague Dawley rats. In the control animals, both NADPH‐d‐ and nNOS‐positive neurons were constitutively distributed in the rostrolateral solitary tract nucleus, dorsomedial part of trigeminal nucleus oralis (Vo/Sn), and superficial layers (VcI/II) of the trigeminal nucleus caudalis (Vc). NADPH‐d‐positive neurons appeared in the trigeminal mesencephalic nucleus ipsilaterally at 5 days (mean ± SEM: 30.5 ± 5.6) and were maintained until 8 weeks (33 ± 10.6) after the denervation. In the trigeminal motor nucleus, NADPH‐d‐positive neurons appeared transiently and bilaterally, peaking at 1 week (663.5 ± 156.2, ipsilateral side; 687.5 ± 118.6, contralateral side) after unilateral denervation of the masseteric nerve. In both Vo/Sn and Vc, the number of NADPH‐d‐positive neurons in the control animals showed a decrease at 3 days but significantly increased from 5 days to 1 week and gradually fell to the control values by 8 weeks after the denervation. There were no significant differences observed between the two sides in either Vo/Sn or Vc. nNOS‐positive neurons were similarly distributed and the numbers of labeled neurons were similar to those of NADPH‐d‐positive neurons after the denervation, although the changes were delayed by approximately 1 week. In conclusion, after unilateral nerve transection, the peak NADPH‐d activity occurs 1 week prior to nNOS activity. J. Neurosci. Res. 66:428–438, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Calculations on the origin of hyperporphyrin spectra in sequentially protonated meso-(dimethylaminophenyl) porphyrins
Authors: VITASOVIC MIRNA , GOUTERMAN MARTIN , LINSCHITZ HENRY
Published: August 2002

The spectra of porphyrins meso-substituted by 4-dimethylaminophenyl groups and protonated at the central pyrrole nitrogens show strong new bands in the visible (450–600 nm) and far-red (700–780 nm). On complete protonation the observed spectra are essentially normal except for enhanced intensity in the farthest red band at ∼ 650 nm. The new bands observed with partial protonation have been qualitatively interpreted as hyperporphyrin spectra due to transitions from 'the filled π orbitals on the amino nitrogen atoms… to the porphyrin LUMOs' [Ojadi ECA, Linschitz M, Gouterman M, Walter RI, Lindsey JS, Wagner RW,]. We now report spectra calculated using the CAChe computer program package. The best structures are determined by energy minimization using a semi-empiral AM1 algorithm; a semi-empirical INDO/CI calculation is then used to obtained the excited state transition energies and intensities. The calculated spectra, although generally blue-shifted compared to experiment, reproduce the hyperporphyrin spectra in those cases where they are observed. In these cases, in contrast to species with normal porphyrin spectra, the HOMO or HOMO-1 is not an orbital on the porphyrin ring but is rather a π-orbital on the unprotonated amino nitrogen that extends over the associated phenyl ring. The calculations suggest that the hyperporphyrin transitions are of Ph (π) → Por (π*) origin, where Ph (π) is an orbital on the phenylamine substitutent and Por (π*) is a LUMO on the porphyrin. It is further suggested that in the fully protonated species the intensity enhancement of the farthest red band in an otherwise normal porphyrin spectrum may relate to phenyl character in the HOMO or HOMO-1.
Effects of the orientational superlattice on the electronic and vibrational properties of CuPt ordered GaInP alloys
Authors: Zhang Yong , Mascarenhas A.
Published: August 2002

A brief review is given of studies on a new semiconductor superlattice—an orientational superlattice—observed recently in spontaneously ordered III–V alloys GaInP. New experimental data, including band edge optical transitions and Raman transitions, are presented to illustrate the unique and intrinsic properties of orientational superlattices. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The activities of the International Service for the Acquisition of Agribiotech Applications (ISAAA) in crop biotechnology transfer
Authors: James Clive
Published: August 2002

The International Service for the Acquisition of Agribiotech Applications (ISAAA) is a not‐for‐profit organisation. The mission of ISAAA is to help alleviate poverty and hunger in the Third World by increasing crop productivity and income generation, particularly for resource‐poor farmers, and to create a safer environment and promote more sustainable agricultural development. ISAAA's activities as an ‘honest broker’ involve the transfer of appropriate crop biotechnology applications and products, particularly proprietary technology, from the North for the benefit of developing countries in the South, by building partnerships between national programmes in the South and institutions in the North. In the past, developing countries and the institutes assisting them with agricultural research accessed non‐proprietary traditional technology from the public sector in industrial countries. With the advent of biotechnology this situation is changing, because biotechnology applications are increasingly proprietary and are owned primarily by private sector corporations in industrial countries. The activities of ISAAA in brokering biotechnology applications are described as well as the support services it provides for national programmes in Africa, Asia and Latin America.

© 2001 Society of Chemical Industry
Microsatellite analysis of fecal DNA for colorectal cancer detection*
Authors: Koshiji Minori , Yonekura Yasuhiro , Saito Takamichi , Yoshioka Kazuhiko
Published: August 2002

Background and Objectives

The advent of noninvasive methods of testing for colorectal cancer that have a high level of specificity and sensitivity is eagerly awaited.

Methods

Thirty patients with sporadic colorectal cancer and 11 patients with hereditary nonpolyposis colon cancer (HNPCC) enrolled in this study. We analyzed the loss of heterozygosity (LOH) in matched genomic DNA extracted from blood and surgical specimens (tumor and tumor‐free colonic mucosa), and the corresponding oral rinse and stool specimens using seven microsatellite loci (APC, p53, DCC, hMLH1, D9S162, D9S171, and IFNA). To reduce the normal colonocyte DNA contamination of the stool samples, we compared three different methods for fecal genomic DNA extraction. As normal controls, we analyzed the LOH using the oral rinse and stool samples from 15 individuals without cancer.

Results

The LOH determined from the oral rinse and the stool samples matched those determined from the blood and the neoplastic tissue. All patients with HNPCC had microsatellite alterations at hMLH‐1 in tumor DNA and corresponding fecal DNA. There were significant differences in the frequency of p53‐LOH and D9S171‐LOH between the group with sporadic disease and those with HNSCC (P = 0.0031 and 0.0294, respectively). Two cases with D9S162‐LOH were detected in individuals without cancer. For the patients with sporadic disease, using p53 and adenomatous polyposis coli (APC), the sensitivity of the fecal DNA analysis was 96.7% (95% CI, 83–100) with a specificity of 100%.

Conclusion

We demonstrate that LOH analysis using oral rinse and stool samples may be a suitable screening tool for colorectal cancer. J. Surg. Oncol. 2002;80:34–40. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Zn finger proteins: Key ways for metalloregulation
Authors: Kudrin Alexey V.
Published: August 2002

Zinc finger proteins have become one of the most intriguing and interesting targets in biological and medical studies. In recent years some studies have provided new approaches in the manipulation of zinc finger‐dependent processes, such as development, tumor, and inflammatory diseases. Paradoxically, those unique properties of this extensive family of proteins depend on metal‐binding characteristics, which might be an interesting link between standard approaches to gene therapy and metalloregulation by a numerous intracellular events. This review summarizes some recent achievements in this area of studies. J. Trace Elem. Exp. Med. 15:103–111, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss Inc.
Ultrastructural changes of human dentin after irradiation by Nd:YAG laser
Authors: Lee Bor Shiunn , Lin Chun Pin , Lin Feng Huei , Lan Wan Hong
Published: August 2002

Background and Objective

The use of Nd:YAG laser has been proposed for endodontic treatment. However, its ability to reduce dentin permeability, which is important for the success of root canal treatment, remains controversial.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

Nd:YAG laser irradiation was performed in pulsed mode on human dentin. The parameters were: pulse energy (100 mJ), rate (10 pps), and total irradiation time (4 seconds). The crystalline phases, electron diffraction patterns, morphology, and microstructure of specimens after laser irradiation were observed by dark‐field emission transmission electron microscope (TEM).

Results

Three ultrastructural zones could be delineated in the dentin: (1) an outer zone with an ordered columnar structure composed of hydroxyapatite and β‐tricalcium phosphate, (2) an intermediate zone composed of an amorphous substance (about 40–70 nm in diameter), and (3) an inner zone of well‐crystallized hydroxyapatite grains. These three zones were free of pores or voids.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrated that laser‐irradiation might be used to reduce dentin permeability. Lasers Surg. Med. 30:246‐252, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
In‐vivo response to free electron laser incision of the rabbit cornea*
Authors: Toth Cynthia A. , Chiu Eric K. , Winter Katrina P. , McCall Michelle N. , Bailey Sarah F. , Harkrider Curtis J. , Hauger Susanne
Published: August 2002

Background and Objective

We analyzed the in vivo ocular response to corneal incisions made by Medical Free Electron Laser (MFEL) as a function of scan rate and incision depth. Additionally, we compared biomicroscopy, optical coherence tomography (OCT), and light microscopy as ocular response diagnostic tools.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

Rabbit corneas were incised with pulsed MFEL radiation at 2.94 μm wavelength, scalpel incisions or focal cautery treatment were used as controls. The MFEL beam scan rate ranged from 0.2 to 1.0 mm/second. Ocular effects were monitored for 2 hours postoperatively using OCT and slit lamp examination. Ocular tissue was fixed for light microscopic examination.

Results

Anterior chamber fibrin formation correlated with MFEL incision depth. Slower scan rates resulted in deeper incisions and greater fibrin formation. OCT was better than slit lamp biomicroscopy at identifying fibrin attachments. OCT and light microscopy proved to be excellent companion technologies.

Conclusions

Deep corneal incisions in the rabbit produced by the MFEL resulted in fibrin formation in the anterior chamber. Lasers Surg. Med. 29:44–52, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Noncoherent‐intense‐pulsed light for the treatment of relapsing hairy intradermal melanocytic nevus after shave excision
Authors: Moreno‐Arias Gerardo A. , Ferrando Juan
Published: August 2002

Background and Objective

Few reports about melanocytic lesions treatment by means of noncoherent‐intense‐pulsed light (NCIPL) have been published. Here we evaluate the clinical results of a relapsing hairy intradermal melanocytic nevus treated with a noncoherent‐intense‐pulsed light source.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

A facial repigmented hairy intradermal melanocytic nevus that relapsed after shave excision, received four treatment sessions of a noncoherent‐intense‐pulsed light source (EpiLightTM, ESC Medical Systems Ltd, Israel) with the following parameters: 755 nm, a fluence energy of 40–42.5 J/cm2, triple mode, a pulse width of 3.8 ms, and a delay of 20 ms, at 4‐week intervals.

Results

Complete pigment clearance and hair removal was obtained. We have neither observed repigmentation nor hair regrowth after a 6 month‐follow‐up. No side effects were documented.

Conclusions

Noncoherent‐intense‐pulse light is an effective treatment for hairy‐pigmented melanocytic nevus. Lasers Surg. Med. 29:142–144, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Applying general living systems theory to learn consumers' sense making in attending performing arts
Authors: Caldwell Marylouise
Published: August 2002

Consumers seek pleasurable experiences when attending performing arts. Yet, no theory exists to explain and predict the sense making associated with this unique consumption activity. General living systems theory (GLST) is applied to offer a systems‐based model intended to be useful in this respect. This work contributes to some important streams of research. For certain types of hedonic consumption, behavior can only be understood in the light of the subtleties of consumer interpretation and the entire buying–consuming process. The suggested GLST paradigm attempts to go beyond choice to achieve an understanding of lived experiences within the realities perceived by consumers. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
A comparison of two voting models to forecast election into The National Baseball Hall of Fame
Authors: Findlay David W. , Reid Clifford E.
Published: August 2002

We present a comparison of two voting models to forecast election into The National Baseball Hall of Fame by the Baseball Writers Association of America. Although both voting models provide similar predictions on which eligible players should be elected into the Baseball Hall of Fame, we believe that the voting model that uses individual performance variables rather than a single performance index is marginally better because it allows the data to determine the relative importance of the individual performance variables included in the single performance index. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Abolition of postapoplectic hemichorea by Vo‐complex thalamotomy: Long‐term follow‐up study
Authors: Goto Satoshi , Kunitoku Naoko , Hamasaki Tadashi , Nishikawa Shigeyuki , Ushio Yukitaka
Published: August 2002

We report a patient with hemichorea following subthalamic hemorrhage. Vo‐complex thalamotomy abolished the choreic movements for over 4 years of follow‐up. © 2001 Movement Disorder Society.
Analysis of the coding and the 5′ flanking regions of the α‐synuclein gene in patients with Parkinson's disease
Authors: Pastor Pau , Muñoz Esteban , Ezquerra Mario , Obach Victor , Martí María José , Valldeoriola Francesc , Tolosa Eduard , Oliva Rafael
Published: August 2002

Missense mutations of the α‐synuclein gene have been reported to explain a few kindreds with autosomal dominant Parkinson's disease (PD). In order to identify mutations in our PD patients, we have screened the coding region and 5′flanking region of the gene. DNA samples from 50 patients with familial PD were screened via single‐strand conformation polymorphism (SSCP) for mutations in the α‐synuclein gene. The 5′ flanking region was examined in 117 additional PD patients (27 patients with unclear family history for PD, and 90 patients without family history) and in 169 control subjects. We found one change (G199A) in exon 4 in one family with a pattern of autosomal dominant PD. However, this mutation did not result in an amino acid substitution (valine) and did not segregate completely with PD. The analysis of the 5′ flanking region also showed a new polymorphism, a nucleotide insertion (− 164insA) linked to a nucleotide substitution (C−116G), in patients and in controls. The −164insA/C−116G allele was present in 52.3% of the patients and in 47.6% of the controls. We did not find significant differences regarding the allelic and genotype frequencies between PD and control groups. These results suggest that mutations in the α‐synuclein gene are a very rare cause of familial PD and that the novel −164insA/C−116G polymorphism in the 5′ flanking region does not confer susceptibility to develop PD. © 2001 Movement Disorder Society.
Developing a model of colchicine neuropathy
Authors: Chang Ed , Dellon A. Lee , Dellon Evan S. , Hendrickson Mark E.
Published: August 2002

Colchicine may be a cause of neuropathy. An experimental model to study this is developed. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss Inc. MICROSURGERY 22:46–48 2002
Beneficial effect of hyperbaric oxygen on island flaps subjected to secondary venous ischemia
Authors: Gampper Thomas J. , Zhang Feng , Mofakhami N.F. , Morgan Raymond F. , Amiss Randy , Hoard Martin A. , Angel Michael F.
Published: August 2002

The potential for hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBO) to decrease the untoward effects of a secondary ischemic event was studied in the rat superficial epigastric flap model. The secondary venous ischemic flap was created by cross‐clamping the vascular pedicles for 2 h. Twenty‐four hours later, the flap was reelevated and the venous pedicle was occluded for 5 h. Thirty‐two rats were divided into three groups. In experimental group 1, animals received HBO treatment immediately prior to the initial flap elevation and ischemia at 2 atmosphere pressures for 90 min. In experimental group 2, the rats underwent a similar course except for a second 90‐min HBO course immediately prior to the secondary venous occlusion. The rats without HBO therapy were used as controls. The results showed that all control flaps were nonviable at 1 week by clinical inspection and fluorescein injection. Complete flap survival occurred in 20% of group 1 flaps and 30.8% of group 2 flaps. Partial flap survival occurred in the rest of the flaps in these two groups, with mean survival areas of 48% and 55%, respectively. In conclusion, HBO treatments significantly increase the survival of flaps subjected to a secondary ischemia, even if administered before the primary ischemia. Administering HBO prior to secondary venous ischemia was marginal, which may be due to the effect of O2 given by HBO not lasting longer than 5 h. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. MICROSURGERY 22:49–52 2002
Solving (3+1)‐dimensional non‐linear Schrödinger equation by means of (3+1)‐dimensional Painlevé integrable model
Authors: Ruan Hang‐yu , Chen Yi‐xin
Published: August 2002

A conformal invariant asymptotic expansion approach is used to solve the (3+1)‐dimensional non‐linear Schrödinger (NLS) equation. Some new (3+1)‐dimensional integrable models under the condition that they are conformal invariant and possess Painlevé property are obtained. These Painlevé integrable models can be used to solve the (3+1)‐dimensional NLS equation approximately. In some special cases, the approximate solutions become exact. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Existence of solution in elastic wave scattering by unbounded rough surfaces
Authors: Arens T.
Published: August 2002

We consider the two‐dimensional problem of the scattering of a time‐harmonic wave, propagating in an homogeneous, isotropic elastic medium, by a rough surface on which the displacement is assumed to vanish. This surface is assumed to be given as the graph of a function ƒ∈C1,1(ℝ). Following up on earlier work establishing uniqueness of solution to this problem, existence of solution is studied via the boundary integral equation method. This requires a novel approach to the study of solvability of integral equations on the real line. The paper establishes the existence of a unique solution to the boundary integral equation formulation in the space of bounded and continuous functions as well as in all Lp spaces, p∈[1, ∞] and hence existence of solution to the elastic wave scattering problem. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On the asymptotic positivity of solutions for the extended Fisher–Kolmogorov equation with nonlinear diffusion
Authors: Bartuccelli M. V.
Published: August 2002

The objective of this paper aims to prove positivity of solutions for a semilinear dissipative partial differential equation with non‐linear diffusion. The equation is a generalized model of the well‐known Fisher–Kolmogorov equation and represents a class of dissipative partial differential equations containing differential operators of higher order than the Laplacian. It arises in a variety of meaningful physical situations including gas flows, diffusion of an electron–ion plasma and the dynamics of biological populations whose mobility is density dependent. In all these situations, the solutions of the equation must be positive functions. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Sidelobe reduction in sparse linear arrays by genetic algorithms
Authors: Lommi Andrea , Massa Andrea , Storti Enrico , Trucco Andrea
Published: August 2002

A numerical procedure based on a genetic algorithm is proposed in order to synthesize a linear, sparse, and aperiodic array to be used in a beamforming processor. The method is aimed to minimize the sidelobe peak of the beam pattern acting on the elements' positions and weights. Obtained results also confirm the effectiveness of the approach in comparison with other techniques in the related literature. © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 32: 194–196, 2002.
A novel analysis method of distributed and traveling‐wave amplifiers leading to power gain improvement
Authors: Trabelsi M. , Si Moussa M. , Aksas R.
Published: August 2002

A new approach, based on scattering waves, for the analysis of distributed and traveling‐wave amplifiers is developed. It uses the scattering parameters of the passive elements and the measured and calculated parameters of the MESFET transistor. Thus, the approach overcomes the assumption of the simplified model of the MESFET transistor as they are needed in the already known methods. This approach can be used for both lumped as well as distributed circuits. Consequently, it can be applied to a distributed amplifier with artificial or real transmission lines. We demonstrate its validity through experimental results. Furthermore, it easily considers the effects of reflections at different ports of the amplifier which have allowed us to achieve an improvement of the power gain approaching 60% at midband using a new topology of a distributed amplifier. © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 32: 207–211, 2002.
Analysis of the defocused Gaussian beam telescope on Cassegrain feeds
Authors: García E. , López Fernández J. A. , De Haro L. , Tercero F. , Galocha B. , Barcia A. , Besada J. L.
Published: August 2002

Defocused Gaussian beam telescope geometry and its tolerance with the changes in the values of their lenses and focalization distances are analyzed. The Gaussian beam telescope is very useful in systems that must operate over broad bandwidths. This device has particularly functional properties in Cassegrain radiotelescope feed systems. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 32: 420–423, 2002.
Superconducting dual‐mode dual‐stage cross‐slotted filters
Authors: Barra M. , Cassinese A. , Cirillo M. , Panariello G. , Russo R. , Vaglio R.
Published: August 2002

This Letter reports on the design and realization of HTS dual‐mode cross‐slotted filters presenting a more compact size if compared with the traditional dual‐mode patch filters. Dual‐stage filters operating in C band and presenting Chebyshev or quasi‐elliptical responses have been realized and tested by using YBa2Cu3O7‐x (YBCO) films. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 33: 389–392, 2002>; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.10331
Analysis of interconnect lines using the finite‐difference time‐domain (FDTD) method
Authors: Farahat Nader , El‐Raouf Hany E. Abd , Mittra Raj
Published: August 2002

In this Letter the coupling effect (cross talk) in parallel microstrip interconnects is analyzed with the use of the finite‐difference–time‐domain (FDTD) method. The interconnects are terminated either by lumped elements or by a perfectly matched layer (PML), and the results obtained from these two methods are compared. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 34: 6–9, 2002; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.10356
Circular wire loop antenna with stepped wire diameter
Authors: Scott H. , Fusco V. F.
Published: August 2002

A circular wire‐loop antenna of 1.042λ0 circumference at 1 GHz with 4:1 balun and stepped wire diameter is presented in this Letter. A fixed E‐field beam offset from broadside of −7.5° is demonstrated with a VSWR of 1.17 at 1 GHz. The antenna has an operational bandwidth of 29% for VSWR < 2 and an estimated gain of 1.24 dB. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 34: 14–15, 2002; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.10358
Metal‐dielectric bandpass filters from millimeter waves to IR
Authors: Frenkel A.
Published: August 2002

The design of multilayer bandpass filters, based on a novel 0.75λ‐thick metal dielectric window is demonstrated. The filters employ layers of high dielectric material together with planar periodic arrays of metal inclusions. These filters can be applied from the millimeter waves up to the IR regime. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 34: 17–19, 2002; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.10360
An improved equivalent circuit model for predicting the transmission characteristics of spiral inductors on GaAs substrates
Authors: Pan S. J. , Li L. W. , Yin W. Y. , Leong M. S.
Published: August 2002

An improved equivalent lumped‐element circuit model for predicting the transmission characteristics of spiral inductors is presented in this Letter. The improved model can simulate the forward transmission coefficient more accurately than the traditional model. By adding a shunt RC arm, the effects of the substrate, which become dominant at high frequencies, are well taken into account. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 34: 35–37, 2002; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.10365