bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of soil pH on the uptake of Al, F and other elements by tea plants
Authors: Fung K F , Wong M H
Published: October 2002

Soil extractable Al, F and Zn concentrations decreased whereas extractable Ca, Cu, K, Mg, Na and P concentrations increased when the soil pH was raised from 3 to 6. These trends led to a decrease in growth of tea seedlings as determined by measurements of relative dry weight gain (RDW), relative leaf number gain (RLN) and relative leaf area gain (RLA). Tea seedlings of both ‘large‐leafed’ and ‘small‐leafed’ varieties grown in soils at pH 3 and 3.5 were the tallest and healthiest, while those at pH 6 died after 3 months. The large‐leafed variety showed higher growth rates than the small‐leafed variety. The highest (p < 0.05) amounts of Al and F, 4225 and 430 mg kg−1respectively, were found in seedlings under pH 3.5 treatment. When Al and F concentrations in seedlings increased, elements such as Ca, Mg, Na and Zn gently decreased (p < 0.05) whereas P increased. K and Cu were not affected. The results indicated that soil pH values higher than 4 reduced Al and F concentrations in tea plants.

© 2001 Society of Chemical Industry
Lignin in the ‘cell contents’ fraction of tropical forages
Authors: Lowry J Brian , Kennedy Peter M , Conlan Laurance L
Published: October 2002

In several tropical forage species the neutral detergent extraction used to determine cell wall and cell contents fractions solubilised a substantial UV‐absorbing polymeric fraction which appeared to be a soluble lignin–carbohydrate complex. A crude product was isolated from spear grass (Heteropogon contortus) with a yield of 30 g kg−1. In other forages an acetyl bromide method was used to estimate lignin extractable by neutral detergent. For eight species of tropical grasses this gave the following values: Aristida calcyna, 38; Mitchell grass (Astrebla squarrosa), 37; Chloris gayana, 31; Eragrostis sp, 37; spear grass, 49; Iseilema membranaceum, 35; Panicum maximum, 36; Sorghum sp, 42; Themeda triandra, 79 g kg−1. The levels in two legumes were: Alysicarpus bupleurifolius, 29; Macroptilium atropurpureum, 27 g kg−1 dry matter. Sequential extractions on spear grass and Mitchell grass showed that most of the 50% dioxan‐soluble fraction was also soluble in neutral detergent, raising the possibility that ‘dioxan lignin’, on which studies of forage lignin structure in other species have been conducted, would be found in the cell contents fraction rather than in the fibre fractions on which lignin analyses have been performed. Addition of dioxan extractives reduced the in vitro neutral detergent fibre (NDF) digestibility of spear grass and Mitchell grass.

© 2002 Society of Chemical Industry
Short‐chain fatty acid content in the hindgut of rats fed various composite foods and commercial dietary fibre fractions from similar sources
Authors: Henningsson Åsa M , Nyman E Margareta G L , Björck Inger M E
Published: October 2002

The fermentability of indigestible carbohydrates and content of short‐chain fatty acids along the hindgut of rats were investigated using plant materials of importance in the Swedish diet (instant potato powder, apples and oat flakes). Results with the composite food products were compared with commercial fibre fractions obtained from similar sources, ie potato fibre, apple pectin and β‐glucan‐enriched oat fibre. The materials were incorporated into diets yielding a concentration of 60 or 70 g kg−1 indigestible carbohydrates. The fermentability of indigestible carbohydrates was high with all diets, between 79 and 90%. All substrates except the pure apple pectin generated intermediate to high proportions of butyric acid in the caecum (15–22 vs 8%). The potato products gave high concentrations of butyric acid in the distal colon. The potato powder, ie the diet with the highest content of resistant starch (22 g kg−1), also gave the highest proportion of butyric acid in the distal colon (19%), which was higher than the proportion in the caecum with the same substrate (15%) (P < 0.005). The composite foods promoted a higher proportion of butyric acid in the distal colon as compared with the commercial fibre fractions (P < 0.05).

© 2002 Society of Chemical Industry
Popping of amaranth grain (Amaranthus caudatus) and its effect on the functional, nutritional and sensory properties
Authors: Lara Nelly , Ruales Jenny
Published: October 2002

The popping of amarunth grain (Amaranthus caudatus var INIAP‐Alegría) by hot air processing was studied. A household corn popper adapted to control heating and airflow was used. The effects of temperature, load, airflow and moisture on the popping capacity and on the functional properties, nutritional quality, crude protein content, lysine content and sensory texture of the poppei grain were investigate. The yield, expansion volume and density of popped grain showed that the optimal conditions for the popping process were 240 °C, 22 g load, 0.013 m3 s−1 airflow and 12% grain moisture. The proportion of popped grain with butterfly shape was highest (p < 0.05) at 220 °C, 22 g load, 0.014 m3 s−1 airflow and 14% grain moisture. The functional and physic‐chemical properties of popped grain obtained by various treatments showed completely gelatinised starch. The total, available and resistant starch contents were similar among the different treatments. The enzymatic degradation of starch was 65% within 5–15 min of incubation with α‐amylase. The crude protein content was almost 15% for all the treatments, while the total lysine content was 45.2–48.0 mg g−1 protein. The in vitro availability of protein of popped grain obtained at 0.013 m3 s−1 airflow and 14% grain moisture was above 84%. The highest available lysine value was found for popped grain obtained at 0.014 m3 s−1 airflow, 18–22 g load and 12–14% grain moisture. However, six of the eight treatments had available lysine contents that varied between 41.2 and 47.4 mg g−1 protein. Sensory analyses showed that the treatments with the highest popping capacity produced grains with high crunch and expansion capacities.

© 2002 Society of Chemical Industry
Modelling of the hydrolysis of sorghum straw at atmospheric pressure
Authors: Téllez‐Luis Simón J , Ramírez José A , Vázquez Manuel
Published: October 2002

Sorghum straw is a renewable, cheap and widespread resource. The acid hydrolysis of sorghum straw to obtain xylose solutions could be a good alternative for this abundant resource. The H2SO4 hydrolysis of sorghum straw at two different temperatures (80 and 100 °C) and three H2SO4 concentrations (2, 4 and 6%) using a solid/liquid ratio of 1:10 (w/w) was studied. Kinetic parameters of mathematical models for predicting the concentrations of xylose, glucose, acetic acid and furfural were determined. The activation energy of the release reaction was 183.3 kJ mol−1 for xylose and 185.8 kJ mol−1 for glucose. The optimal conditions found were 6% H2SO4 at 100 °C for 60 min, which allow one to obtain a solution with 18.27 g xylose l−1, 6.78 g glucose l−1, 0.7 g furfural l−1 and 1.35 g acetic acid l−1. It is concluded that this process has potential for utilisation of this renewable lignocellulosic resource.

© 2002 Society of Chemical Industry
Toxicological evaluation of transgenic rice flour with a synthetic cry1Ab gene from Bacillus thuringiensis
Authors: Wang Zhong‐hua , Wang Yin , Cui Hai‐rui , Xia Ying‐wu , Altosaar Illimar , Shu Qing‐yao
Published: October 2002

Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) transgenic (KMD1) and non‐transgenic (KMD1′s parental variety Xiushui 11) rice flours were assessed in a 90 day feeding test with rats. KMD1 contained a synthetic cry1Ab gene from Bt, and selection marker genes nptII and hpt linked in tandem. In the≤64 g kg−1 body weight (BW) dosage range (Bt transgenic rice flour composed 64% of the ingredients of the diet), no adverse effects of Bt rice on rats were observed in terms of animal behaviour, weight gain and feed utilisation rate. Necropsy at the end of the experiment indicated that neither pathological lesions nor histopathological abnormalities were present in organs such as liver, kidneys, intestines and testes of rats in both test and control groups by macroscopic and microscopic pathology. In addition, no significant differences (P > 0.05) were observed in relative organ weights, haemograms and blood indices of rats between test and control groups. Several serum parameters of female rats were found to be significantly different between Bt and non‐Bt diets, but the values of these parameters were still within the normal ranges of values for rats of this age and sex. These results demonstrated that Bt rice flour at a dosage of 64 g kg−1 BW, Bt toxin and NPTII and HPT proteins have no toxic effects on rats.

© 2002 Society of Chemical Industry
Effects of sodium and sulphur fertilisers on the concentrations of nitrate and potentially toxic elements (PTEs) in water leached from permanent pasture
Authors: Chiy Paul C , Phillips Clive J C
Published: October 2002

The concentrations of nitrate and potentially toxic elements (PTEs) are reported in water leached from a perennial ryegrass pasture to which isonitrogenous quantities of sodium nitrate, ammonium nitrate or ammonium sulphate fertilisers had been applied in an experiment lasting 2 years. The experimental design allowed a comparison of the immediate effects of sodium nitrate in the grazing season in which the fertiliser was applied with the residual effects of applying it in the previous year. Leachate composition was monitored from December of the first year to August of the second year. Sodium fertiliser reduced the concentrations of cadmium in soil and leachate, but it increased lead concentration in soil and reduced it in leachate. Sulphur fertiliser had no effect on any PTE. Nitrate concentration in leachate increased towards the end of the winter to almost reach the EU legal limit in water and then declined during the spring and summer. Sodium fertiliser applied in either but not both years reduced nitrate concentration. Sulphur fertiliser had varied effects on nitrate concentration in leachate depending on the timing of sodium fertiliser application. When applied at the same time as sodium fertiliser, sulphur fertiliser decreased nitrate concentration, but when applied to areas that had received sodium fertiliser in the previous year, it increased nitrate concentration. It is suggested that sodium fertiliser residues may have long‐term effects on leachate nitrate concentration that determine the impact of sulphur fertilisers. It is concluded that sodium fertilisers may reduce the concentrations of at least two PTEs, cadmium and lead, in ground water and that the effects of sulphur fertilisers are dependent on the sodium status of the soil.

© 2002 Society of Chemical Industry
Effect of fructooligosaccharide on nutritional parameters and mineral bioavailability in rats
Authors: Gudiel‐Urbano Montserrat , Goñi Isabel
Published: October 2002

The effect of fructooligosaccharide on protein digestibility and mineral absorption was studied in rats fed diets containing 5 g kg−1 fructooligosaccharide, 5 g kg−1 cellulose/fructooligosaccharide (1:1) or 5 g kg−1 cellulose as a source of dietary fibre. Addition of cellulose/fructooligosaccharide or fructooligosaccharide to the diet did not significantly modify the daily food intake and food efficiency. However, the fructooligosaccharide‐fed group showed a significant decrease in body weight gain compared with cellulose‐fed groups. Faecal excretion was significantly lower when there was fructooligosaccharide intake, despite there being no significant differences in cellulose‐fed groups. Intake of fructooligosaccharide produced an increase in caecal content and an enlargement of the caecal wall. This trophic effect could be attributed to short‐chain fatty acids produced from the anaerobic fermentation of fructooligosaccharide by intestinal bacteria. Cellulose/fructooligosaccharide enhanced the apparent absorption and apparent retention of Ca, Mg, Zn and Fe. Fructooligosaccharide‐fed rats experienced an increase in apparent absorption and apparent retention of Mg compared with cellulose‐fed rats. Fructooligosaccharide intake at the lowest dose was enough to provide a desirable effect on mineral bioavailability in rats without any modification of nutritional parameters.

© 2002 Society of Chemical Industry
Persistence of pesticides in water, sediment and fish from fish farms in Kolleru Lake, India
Authors: Amaraneni Sreenivasa Rao
Published: October 2002

Kolleru Lake is a freshwater lake in south‐eastern India with a high potential for aquaculture. It is located between 61°32′ and 61°47′N latitude and 81°15′ and 81°27′E longitude. Various chemicals such as pesticides are used to control diseases and ectoparasites in intensive aquaculture farms in India. The main aim of this paper was to determine selected pesticides in water, sediment and fish from 12 fish farms located in Kolleru Lake in order to assess the quality of fish for human consumption and to improve the further risk assessment and management of such chemicals in aquaculture and also to evaluate the impact of aquaculture chemicals on the Kolleru Lake environment. The chemicals used in intensive aquaculture farms were documented. Water, sediment and fish samples were collected from the fish farms during the production period and analysed for the pesticides α‐BHC, γ‐BHC, malathion, chloropyrifos, isodrin, endosulfan, dieldrin and p,p′‐DDT using gas chromatography.

© 2002 Society of Chemical Industry
Comparison of the volatile components of two cultivars of potato cooked by boiling, conventional baking and microwave baking
Authors: Oruna‐Concha Maria J , Bakker Jokie , Ames Jennifer M
Published: October 2002

Tubers of two cultivars (Estima and Maris Piper) of potato were cooked by three different procedures, ie boiling, conventional baking and microwave baking. Peeled and sliced tubers were boiled, while intact potatoes were baked in their skins. Flavour components from the boiled slices and the flesh of the baked tubers were isolated by headspace adsorption onto Tenax and analysed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS). For all cooking procedures, Estima gave stronger isolates than Maris Piper. The two main sources of flavour compounds (regardless of cooking procedure) were lipid degradation and the Maillard reaction and/or sugar degradation. The ratio (yield derived from lipid)/(yield derived from Maillard reaction and/or sugar) decreased from 8.5–9.1 (boiling) to 2.7–3.4 (microwave baking) and to 0.4–1.1 (conventional baking). Quantitative and qualitative differences among the cooking procedures are explained in terms of the variations in heat and mass transfer processes that occurred. Each cooking procedure resulted in a unique profile of flavour compounds.

© 2002 Society of Chemical Industry
Characterisation of pressure‐treated skimmed milk powder dispersions: application of NMR spectroscopy
Authors: Hubbard Colin D , Caswell David , Lüdemann Hans‐Dietrich , Arnold Martin
Published: October 2002

Skimmed milk powder (SMP) (bovine) and skimmed milk powder/sucrose dispersions before, during and after high‐pressure treatment have been studied by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy (principally P‐31). The P‐31 spectra of samples at 293 K before and after pressure (400–600 MPa) treatment were not significantly different from one another, whether or not sucrose was present. This indicates that physicochemical changes relating to phosphorus‐containing components occurring during a pressure cycle are either reversible or result in re‐immobilisation, while protein components may be rearranged. The P‐31 NMR spectra of these dispersions at 293 K under pressure (100–300 MPa) showed that pressure caused a considerable increase in the free inorganic phosphate concentration and that the increase was proportional to the magnitude of pressure. Decompression to ambient caused an exact reversal of this trend. These findings are discussed in terms of characterisation and properties of pressure‐treated SMP dispersions by other methods and techniques.

© 2002 Society of Chemical Industry
Improvement in pulping and bleaching properties of xylem from transgenic tobacco plants
Authors: Kajita Shinya , Ishifuji Masatoshi , Ougiya Hiroshi , Hara Shin‐ichi , Kawabata Haruhiko , Morohoshi Noriyuki , Katayama Yoshihiro
Published: October 2002

In an attempt to improve the pulping properties of xylem pieces and the bleaching properties of the resultant pulp, we compared two lines of transgenic tobacco in which the biosynthesis of lignin had been altered by suppression of the activity of 4‐coumarate: CoA ligase (4CL). The results of Kraft pulping on a laboratory scale indicated that the xylem of transgenic tobacco exhibited a higher delignification efficiency than that of corresponding controls subjected to the same conditions. This facilitated delignification was accompanied by a high pulp yield, but there was no excessive degradation of cellulose in the pulp fibres. The unbleached pulps from the 4CL‐suppressed tobacco plants were easily bleached with a lower consumption of chemicals than was required for the controls. Furthermore, the strength and optical properties of handsheets prepared from the 4CL‐suppressed tobacco plants were similar to those of handsheets prepared from the controls. Our observations suggest that modification of lignin by genetic engineering of the suppression of 4CL activity should result in both an increased pulping yield and a saving of bleaching reagent.

© 2002 Society of Chemical Industry
Sugar–cellulose composites. VI. Economic evaluation of lactose production from cheese whey for use in paper
Authors: Fernández J , Vega A , Coca J , Allan G G
Published: October 2002

Previous papers in this series have shown that a portion of the cellulose fibres in paper can be replaced by lactose without significant changes in the physical properties of the paper. Lactose will only be used to substitute up to 10% of cellulose in paper‐making if it is available in quantity at a price less than that of the fibres replaced. Cheese is produced worldwide in large quantities, and its by‐product, whey, is mainly dried or, in some cases, fractionated to produce lactose and whey protein concentrate (WPC). Lactose obtained from cheese whey for this application does not need to fulfil FDA or EU requirements. Hence its manufacture is cheaper than for edible grade lactose. Furthermore, it is not necessary to dry the cellulose substitute to minimise the transportation cost if the lactose fractionation plant is located close to the paper‐mill. An analytical case study has been developed for the industrial environment existing in Asturias (Spain), where seven plants producing more than 400 000 t year−1 of cheese whey, with an annual growth of 3%, and a 150 000 t year−1 paper‐mill are located within a circular area of 80 km radius. This analysis has been extended to different plant capacities to allow its application to other locations with similar characteristics.

© 2002 Society of Chemical Industry
A comparison of biochemical changes in cod (Gadus morhua) and haddock (Melanogrammus aeglefinus) fillets during frozen storage
Authors: Badii Farah , Howell Nazlin K
Published: October 2002

Changes in the muscle proteins of frozen cod fillets, which produce significant amounts of formaldehyde, and frozen haddock fillets, which produce negligible formaldehyde, were compared. Protein extractability and hydrophobicity and the amino acid contents of soluble and insoluble proteins, as well as formaldehyde formation, were investigated in matching pairs of cod and haddock fillets stored at −10 and −30 °C (control). Formaldehyde production in cod was much higher (845 and 1065 nmol g−1at 20 and 30 weeks respectively) than in haddock (93 and 101 nmol g−1after 20 and 30 weeks respectively) at −10 °C. However, a rapid decrease in solubility of proteins, increase in hydrophobicity and decrease in the amino acid content of salt‐soluble proteins at −10 compared with −30 °C were observed in both species. The results showed that there were no significant differences in the nature of the protein changes between these two species, thus indicating that factors other than formaldehyde were involved in the denaturation of proteins and the formation of aggregates during frozen storage of cod and haddock fillets, especially at −10 °C.

© 2001 Society of Chemical Industry
Diagnosis and management of patients with thyroid nodules
Authors: Lawrence Walter , Kaplan Brian J.
Published: October 2002

Fewer than 5% of all adults will have a palpable thyroid nodule, but this is still a large number of individuals who require evaluation. Although most thyroid nodules are a result of a benign disease process (more than 95%), the possibility of thyroid cancer is always a consideration. Important aspects of history taking with a patient in whom a thyroid nodule has been noted include age, gender, family history of thyroid or endocrine disease, prior low dosage head and neck radiation, recent hoarseness, dysphagia, and symptoms of hypermetabolism. Key features of evaluation by physical examination are the size and location of the thyroid abnormality, the degree of firmness of the nodule, the presence of other nodules in the thyroid, palpable cervical lymph nodes, vocal cord paresis or paralysis, and tachycardia and/or tremor.

The major categories of thyroid abnormality in such patients include cysts, adenomas, thyroiditis, and cancer. Although radionuclide scans, ultrasound examination and computer tomography have all been employed in the assessment of thyroid nodules, and thyroid stimulating hormone assay is useful for confirming a euthyroid state, fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) has proved to be the most efficient diagnostic tool. The findings from FNAB allow avoidance of operative treatment for a large portion of these patients with palpable thyroid nodules, but a diagnosis of “follicular neoplasm” on FNAB usually requires operation, despite the fact that many such patients do ultimately prove to have a benign lesion. The extent of operation in patients undergoing surgery will depend on the diagnostic findings before operation, but unilateral thyroid lobectomy is the minimum procedure when surgery is required. J. Surg. Oncol. 2002;80:157–170. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Long‐pulsed ruby laser for permanent hair reduction: Histological analysis after 3, 4½, and 6 months
Authors: McCoy Sue , Evans Anne , James Craig
Published: October 2002

Background and Objectives

The histology of hair follicles in both animal and human skin treated with ruby lasers has been evaluated to a limited extent in previous studies. We have previously looked at such follicles up to 2 months after treatment. This study examines the longer‐term effects at a microscopic level and attempts to further elucidate the mechanism of ruby laser hair reduction.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

Thirty‐six patients underwent 1, 2, or 3 treatments of their axillary or bikini area skin with a 3 milliseconds ruby laser at 10, 20, 30, or 40 J/cm2. Biopsies were taken 3, 4½, or 6 months after the last treatment and examined histologically. Nine control biopsies were taken from comparable bikini areas of untreated patients and similarly evaluated histologically.

Results

There was a significant increase in telogen compared to anagen follicles in treated skin, which was slightly increased by multiple compared to single treatments, but unaffected by different time intervals since the last treatment. There was also a significant increase in miniaturized compared to terminal hairs in treated compared to control skin, a finding that was further increased with higher energies used. Multiple treatments and time after treatment had a slight, but not statistically significant effect on follicle size.

Conclusions

Induction of telogen in terminal follicles followed by miniaturization appears to be the main mechanism of ruby laser hair reduction. Lasers Surg. Med. 30:401–405, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Holmium: YAG laser‐induced liquid jet knife: Possible novel method for dissection
Authors: Nakagawa Atsuhiro , Hirano Takayuki , Komatsu Makoto , Sato Mariko , Uenohara Hiroshi , Ohyama Hideki , Kusaka Yasuko , Shirane Reizo , Takayama Kazuyoshi , Yoshimoto Takashi
Published: October 2002

Background and Objectives

Making surgical incisions in vessel‐rich organs without causing bleeding is difficult. Thus, it is necessary to develop new devices for this purpose, especially for surgery involving small vessels as in neurosurgery, where damage against even small cerebral vessels result in severe neurological deficits.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

A laser‐induced liquid jet was generated by irradiating pulsed Holmium Yttrium‐Aluminum‐Garnet (Ho: YAG) laser (beams of 350 microseconds pulse width) within a copper tube (internal diameter, 1 mm) with pure water (150 ml /hour). Ho: YAG laser beams were irradiated through an optical fiber (core diameter, 0.4 mm). The influence of the input of laser energy, structure of the nozzle, and the stand‐off distance between the optical fiber tip and nozzle exit on the jet velocity was measured by a high‐speed video camera to evaluate controllability of jet. The effect on artificial organs made of 10 and 30%(w/v) gelatin, each of which represent features of soft tissue and blood vessels.

Results

Jet velocity increased in proportion to gain in laser energy input, and maximum penetration depth into 10%(w/v) gelatin was 35 mm by single exposure at 350 mJ/pulse without impairing a vessel model. Shapes of nozzle also modified jet velocity with optimal nozzle/tube area ratio of 0.25.

Conclusions

The laser‐induced liquid jet has excellent potential as a new tool for removing soft tissue without damaging vital structures. Lasers Surg. Med. 31:129–135, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Ketoconazole potentiates the antitumor effects of nocodazole: In vivo therapy for human tumor xenografts in nude mice
Authors: Wang Ying‐Jan , Jeng Jiiang‐Huei , Chen Rong‐Jane , Tseng How , Chen Li‐Ching , Liang Yu‐Chih , Lin Chien‐Huang , Chen Chien‐Ho , Chu Jan‐Show , Ho Wei‐Lu , Ho Yuan‐Soon
Published: October 2002

Our previous studies demonstrated that the oral antifungal agent ketoconazole (KT) induces apoptosis and G0/G1 phase cell cycle arrest in human cancer cell lines. In this study, we first demonstrated that KT (1 μM) potentiated the apoptotic effects of nocodazole (ND, 1 nM) in COLO 205 cancer cells. We further demonstrated the therapeutic efficacy of a combined treatment of KT (50 mg/kg/three times per week) and ND (5 mg/kg/three times per week) in vivo by treating athymic mice bearing COLO 205 tumor xenografts. The antitumor effects of ND were significantly potentiated by KT in mice after 6 wk of treatment. No gross signs of toxicity were observed in mice receiving these treatment regimens. The apoptotic cells were detected in a microscopic view of the terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase–mediated dUTP nick‐end labeling staining and by observation of DNA fragmentation in KT + ND–treated tumor tissues. The levels of cell cycle regulatory proteins were determined by Western blot analysis. Treatment with KT inhibits tumor growth through elevation of p53, p21/CIP1, and p27/KIP1 as well as inhibition of cyclin D3 and cyclin‐dependent kinase 4 protein expression. Immunohistochemical staining analysis showed that p53, p21/CIP1, and p27/KIP1 immunoreactivity were induced in the tumor tissues. To clarify the roles of the p21/CIP1 and p27/KIP1 protein expression involved in G0/G1 arrest and/or apoptosis induced by a combined treatment with KT and ND, antisense oligodeoxynucleotides (ODNs) specific to p21/CIP1 and p27/KIP1 were used. Our results demonstrated that apoptotic phenomena, including BAX induction and cytochrome C released from mitochondria induced by KT + ND, were significantly attenuated by pretreatment the cells with the p27/KIP1–specific antisense ODNs. These results indicate that p27/KIP1 protein does indeed play a critical role in the KT + ND–induced apoptosis. Our study revealed the molecular mechanism of KT + ND in regression of the tumor growth. The apoptotic effects of KT in a great variety of cancer cells make it a very attractive agent for cancer chemotherapy. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Disordered respiration as a levodopa‐induced dyskinesia in Parkinson's disease
Authors: Rice J.E. , Antic R. , Thompson Philip D.
Published: October 2002

Symptomatic respiratory disturbance as a consequence of levodopa (L‐dopa) therapy for Parkinson's disease (PD) has been described only rarely and may be underrecognized in clinical practice. We report on two patients with PD in whom the introduction or augmentation of L‐dopa therapy was associated with the development of irregular and rapid breathing. Analysis of breathing patterns before and after L‐dopa demonstrated a striking change in respiratory rate after administration of L‐dopa, with the emergence of irregular tachypnea alternating with brief periods of apnea, in a pattern consistent with a central origin. In both cases, the temporal relationship of the respiratory disturbance to the administration of L‐dopa suggested a peak‐dose drug effect. Previous reports of L‐dopa–induced respiratory dyskinesia are reviewed, and the potential mechanisms whereby L‐dopa might influence the central control of respiration to produce irregular breathing patterns are discussed. © 2002 Movement Disorder Society
Possible sporadic rapid‐onset dystonia–parkinsonism
Authors: Linazasoro Gurutz , Indakoetxea Begoña , Ruiz Javier , Van Blercom Nadege , Lasa Asier
Published: October 2002

Rapid‐onset dystonia–parkinsonism is a hereditary disease characterized by a combination of dystonic and parkinsonian symptoms. Bulbar musculature is predominantly affected by dystonia. The onset is usually abrupt and the progression of the disease over years is minimal or absent. Homovanillic acid levels in cerebrospinal fluid can be diminished, suggesting that the pathogenesis of the disease is related to some dysfunction in dopaminergic neurotransmission. However, no abnormality has been found in positron emission tomography studies and levodopa does not improve symptoms. The genetic abnormality is not known, but evidence for linkage to markers on chromosome 19q13 has been reported. We describe the case of a woman with a clinical picture highly suggestive of rapid onset dystonia–parkinsonism (RDP) and no family history of the disease. © 2002 Movement Disorder Society.
The effect of quetiapine on psychosis and motor function in parkinsonian patients with and without dementia
Authors: Reddy Sujana , Factor Stewart A. , Molho Eric S. , Feustel Paul J.
Published: October 2002

Recently, several small studies have indicated that quetiapine may be useful in the treatment of drug‐induced psychosis in patients with PD. However, there have been questions related to atypical antipsychotic therapy and patient selection and how that may affect response and tolerability, especially worsening of the motor symptoms of PD. In particular, the presence or absence of dementia seems to be important. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of quetiapine on psychosis and motor symptoms in PD patients with and without dementia. A retrospective record review of patient responses to quetiapine was conducted. Response of psychosis was assessed through patient and caregiver interviews. Motor symptom change in relation to this therapy was assessed by patient and caregiver interviews and completion of the motor portion of the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRSm). Analysis was performed by comparing psychosis and motor feature measures from before and after therapy for the group as a whole and for demented and nondemented subgroups, using nonparametric tests and Fisher's exact test. Forty‐three consecutively treated PD patients were evaluated. The mean dose of quetiapine was 54 mg per day and the duration of therapy was 10 months. Eighty‐one percent of patients demonstrated partial or complete amelioration of psychosis. Five patients (13%) experienced a worsening of PD motor symptoms, which was corroborated by changes seen in UPDRSm. When the group was examined as a whole, no significant change in UPDRSm score was noted. When demented (n = 20) and nondemented (n = 19) patients were compared, improvement in psychosis occurred in similar numbers of patients, but a significant difference in the numbers of patients who experienced a worsening of motor symptoms was seen (P < 0.02, Fisher's exact test). All five patients who complained of motor worsening were in the demented group. UPDRSm score after therapy tended to be worse in the demented group (P = 0.55, Mann‐Whitney U test). There was no significant change in the levodopa dose. Approximately 80% of patients chose to continue therapy. We conclude that quetiapine is effective in improving psychosis in approximately 80% of PD patients both with and without dementia. Patients with dementia seem to have a higher propensity for worsening of motor symptoms.
Shoulder fusion and free‐functioning gracilis transplantation in patients with elbow and shoulder paralysis caused by poliomyelitis
Authors: El‐Gammal Tarek Abdalla , El‐Sayed Amr , Kotb Mohammed M.
Published: October 2002

Six children between 7–16 years of age presented with flail shoulder and elbow caused by poliomyelitis. Shoulder fusion was followed by free‐functioning gracilis transplantation to replace the atrophied biceps muscle. The transplanted muscle was reinnervated by either the spinal accessory or phrenic nerve. Follow‐up averaged 44 months (range, 56–23 months). All cases developed at least grade 3 power of elbow flexion and were able to place their hands to their mouths. Five out of 6 cases were able to flex their elbow against resistance. One case required tension readjustment, and elbow flexion contracture of 45° developed in another case. On average, the transplanted gracilis started to contract 3 months after transplantation, and muscle power reached grade 2 at 5–6 months and grade 3 at 9–12 months. Muscles supplied by the spinal accessory nerve were earlier to contract and ultimately attained more power than those supplied by the phrenic nerve, probably because of easier rehabilitation. Shoulder fusion and free‐functioning gracilis transplantation for biceps replacement provide a solution for restoration of function in children with flail shoulder and elbow, as caused by poliomyelitis. The procedure can be useful in other neuromuscular conditions, such as late‐presenting Erb's palsy, especially when no other muscles are available for local transfer. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. MICROSURGERY 22: 199–202 2002
Facial contour restoration in Barraquer‐Simons syndrome using two free tram flaps: Presentation of two case reports and long‐term follow‐up
Authors: Goossens Sofie , Coessens Bruno
Published: October 2002

Barraquer‐Simons syndrome, a disorder of unknown etiology, is characterized by a cephalothoracic lipodystrophy. We present 2 patients treated with a bilateral free transverse rectus abdominis myocutaneous (TRAM) flap to restore facial contour. Our technique of using a muscle component to fill the cheek defect was based on our experience with free muscle transfer in facial reanimation. In comparison with adipose tissue, muscle tissue does not show a tendency for ptosis because of its consistency and firm attachment of the muscle surface to the surrounding tissues. These cases demonstrate the possibility for the use of simultaneous dissection of the face and flaps, and the reliability of the vascular pedicle. The stability of the abdominal wall was secured by closure of the rectus sheath over Teflon mesh, which has been proven to prevent hernia. Our long‐term follow‐up demonstrates a stable symmetrical facial appearance. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. MICROSURGERY 22:211–218 2002
Note on the existence and uniqueness of optimum lifting surfaces with reduced tip vorticity
Authors: Sparenberg J. A. , Thomas E. G. F.
Published: October 2002

In linearized optimization theory, lifting surfaces shed tip vorticity of which the strength has in general infinite square root singularities. Here we impose, besides the usual condition on the force action of the lifting surfaces, also a condition on the strength of their shed vorticity by which it remains bounded. Then the existence of a unique optimum under both conditions is proved. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
On corner irregularities that arise in hyperbolic shell membrane theory
Authors: Piila J. , Pitkäranta J.
Published: October 2002

We study the regularity of the solution to a two‐dimensional linear hyperbolic system that arises in shell membrane theory. We focus on the behaviour of the solution at a corner where none of the characteristic lines intersect the domain. In this case, there appears an algebraic singularity at the corner, in addition to the usual hyperbolic irregularities that propagate along the characteristic lines. We carry out the analysis on a triangular domain, using as tools the Banach fixed point Theorem and the Mellin transform techniques. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Measurement of complex permittivity of liquid dielectrics
Authors: Wang Yong , Afsar Mohammed N.
Published: October 2002

The complex permittivity of a number of liquid dielectrics has been measured with the use of the in‐waveguide technique at the X and Ku band. The TRL calibration procedure is applied for the calibration of the waveguide system. The measured results of permittivity of distilled water agree well with those published in the literature. The measured permittivity for other liquids such as ethyl alcohol, propyl alcohol, benzene, chlorobenzene, menthanol, and cyclothexane are also shown, and the properties of these liquids are discussed. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 34: 240–243, 2002; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.10427
Prospective study of carboplatin‐based chemotherapy for pediatric germ cell tumors
Authors: Stern Julie W. , Bunin Nancy
Published: October 2002

Background

Survival of pediatric patients with malignant germ cell tumors has improved dramatically with the use of cisplatin‐based chemotherapy, though patients are at high risk of significant long‐term complications. In a prospective study, carboplatin was substituted for cisplatin in an attempt to minimize nephro‐ and oto‐toxicities, while achieving excellent disease‐free survival.

Procedure

All consecutive patients with malignant germ cell tumors at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia were treated between 1989 and 1998. After pathologic confirmation of disease and pretreatment evaluation of pulmonary, renal, and otologic function, patients received etoposide 150 mg/m2 days 1, 2, 3; carboplatin 600 mg/m2 day 2; and bleomycin 10 mg/m2 day 3 for at least four courses.

Results

Twenty‐three patients were entered for study, and were available for evaluation. All patients achieved either a complete or partial remission following therapy with surgery and chemotherapy. With a median of 58 months of follow‐up, overall survival is 91% and event‐free survival is 87%. Therapy was given as an outpatient, and well tolerated, with 20 admissions for fever and neutropenia. Ototoxicity and nephrotoxicity, when evaluated, have been extremely limited. Three patients, all with stage III disease, have relapsed; one of these remains alive and disease free.

Conclusions

Carboplatin can successfully substitute for cisplatin during the treatment of pediatric germ cell tumors without sacrificing response or survival. Long‐term effects, especially nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity, were rare or mild among the small number of patients evaluated. Carboplatin appears to be a safe and efficacious alternative in the treatment of germ cell tumors, and should be considered as primary therapy for pediatric patients. Med Pediatr Oncol 2002;39:163–167. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
An improved 33S nuclear magnetic shielding scale from the gas‐phase study of COS
Authors: Jackowski Karol , Makulski Włodzimierz , Koźmiński Wiktor
Published: October 2002

The 33S NMR signal of gaseous carbonyl sulfide (COS) was monitored as a function of density for the first time. An extrapolation to the zero‐density limit permitted the measurement of nuclear magnetic shielding of an isolated COS molecule. An improved 33S shielding scale was established taking the value of 817(12) ppm as the absolute shielding of COS. The new 33S shielding scale is certainly more accurate than any previous estimation and contains some reference standards, e.g. an isolated SF6 molecule, a saturated solution of (NH4)2SO4 in D2O, 2 M aqueous Cs2SO4 solution or liquid SF6, CS2 and SO2. The latter results can be applied for the easy estimation of sulfur shielding available from all the measurements of 33S NMR chemical shifts. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The bonding situation in 1,3,2‐diazaphospholene derivatives as studied by solid‐state NMR spectroscopy
Authors: Gudat Dietrich , Haghverdi Asadollah , Hoffbauer Wilfried
Published: October 2002

The 31P chemical shift (CS) tensors of the 1,3,2‐diazaphospholenium cation 1 and the P‐chloro‐1,3,2‐diazaphospholenes 2 and 3 and the 31P and 19F CS tensors of the P‐fluoro‐1,3,2‐diazaphospholene 4 were characterized by solid‐state 31P and 19F NMR studies and quantum chemical model calculations. The computed orientation of the principal axes system of the 31P and 19F CS tensors in the P‐fluoro compound was found to be in good agreement with experimentally derived values obtained from evaluation of P–F dipolar interactions. A comparison of the trends in the chemical shifts of 1–4 with further available literature data confirms that the unique high shielding of δ11 in the cation 1 can be related to the effective π‐conjugation in the five‐membered heterocycle, and that a further systematic decrease in δ11 for the P‐halogen derivatives 2–4 is attributable to the increased perturbation of the π‐electron distribution by interaction with the halide donor. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Embryonic and foetal development of bovine oocytes treated with a combination of butyrolactone I and roscovitine in an enriched medium prior to IVM and IVF
Authors: Ponderato Nunzia , Crotti Gabriella , Turini Paola , Duchi Roberto , Galli Cesare , Lazzari Giovanna
Published: October 2002

Cattle oocytes were maintained at germinal vesicles (GV) stage for 24 hr using a combination of two specific and potent inhibitors of M‐phase promoting factor (MPF) kinase activity, butyrolactone I (BL‐I) and roscovitine (ROS). The media used for inhibition were (a) TCM‐199 only and (b) TCM‐199 supplemented with serum, hormones and growth factors. The effective doses of inhibitors were 6.25 μM BL‐I and 12.5 μM ROS in medium (a) and 50 μM BL‐I and 12.5 μM ROS in medium (b). After inhibition, about 90% of the oocytes resumed meiosis and reached the metaphase II (MII) stage during 24 hr of maturation. Following fertilisation the percentage of cleavage (D +2), compacted morula (D +6), blastocysts on D +7 and D +8 and the survival to freezing and thawing of grade 1 embryos frozen on D +7 were not different between the experimental treated groups and the control. In order to evaluate early foetal development, two groups of five grade 1 D +7 blastocysts derived from treated oocytes and two groups of five control embryos were transferred nonsurgically in four synchronised recipient heifers. On D +27, the recipients were slaughtered and the foetuses were recovered. In both groups, six foetuses developed out of the 10 embryos transferred. In conclusion, several supplements can be added to the prematuration medium of bovine oocytes without reducing the quality of inhibition but also without improving their subsequent developmental competence versus treated oocytes in TCM‐199 only and versus untreated control. Furthermore, the prematuration step used in this study does not interfere with normal foetal development during the first stages of organogenesis. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 62:513–518, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Antibodies generated in response to plasmid DNA encoding zona pellucida glycoprotein‐B inhibit in vitro human sperm–egg binding
Authors: Rath Archana , Choudhury Sangeeta , Hasegawa Akiko , Koyama Koji , Gupta Satish K.
Published: October 2002

To investigate the immunogenicity of plasmid DNA encoding bonnet monkey (Macaca radiata) zona pellucida (ZP) glycoprotein‐B (bmZPB), the cDNA corresponding to bmZPB, excluding the N‐terminal signal sequence and C‐terminus transmembrane‐like domain, was cloned in mammalian expression vector VR1020 downstream of tissue plasminogen activator signal sequence under cytomegalovirus promoter (VRbmZPB). In vitro transfection of COS‐1, COS‐7, CHO, HEK‐293, and UM‐449 mammalian cells with VRbmZPB plasmid DNA led to the expression of bmZPB. Expression of bmZPB in transfected cells was cytosolic. Flow cytometry analysis of COS‐1 cells transfected with VRbmZPB revealed that ∼15% cells expressed bmZPB. The expressed bmZPB has an apparent molecular weight of 57 kDa. Immunization of male BALB/cJ mice with VRbmZPB plasmid DNA in saline as compared to VR1020 immunized group, elicited significant antibodies against E. coli expressed recombinant bmZPB as evaluated in ELISA. The antibodies generated by VRbmZPB plasmid DNA recognized bonnet monkey as well as human ZP. The immune sera obtained from mice immunized with VRbmZPB plasmid DNA also inhibited, in vitro, the binding of spermatozoa to the ZP in the hemizona assay. These studies, for the first time, demonstrate the feasibility of DNA vaccine to generate antibodies against ZP that recognize native protein and inhibit human sperm–oocyte binding. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 62:525–533, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Mapping the fiber orientation in articular cartilage at rest and under pressure studied by 2H double quantum filtered MRI
Authors: Shinar Hadassah , Seo Yoshiteru , Ikoma Kazuya , Kusaka Yoshiaki , Eliav Uzi , Navon Gil
Published: October 2002

The one‐dimensional 2H double quantum filtered (DQF) spectroscopic imaging technique was used to study the orientation of collagen fibers in articular cartilage. The method detects only water molecules in anisotropic environments, which in cartilage is caused by their interaction with the collagen fibers. A large quadrupolar splitting was observed in the calcified zone and a smaller splitting in the radial zone. In the transitional zone the splitting was not resolved and a small splitting was again detected in the superficial zone. From measurements performed at two orientations of the plug relative to the magnetic field it was deduced that in the calcified and radial zones the fibers are oriented perpendicular to the bone, bending at the transitional zone and flattening at the superficial zone. The effect of load applied to the cartilage–bone plug was monitored by the same technique. At low loads there is a small decrease in the quadrupolar splitting in the calcified zone, a marked decrease in the radial zone, and an increase of the splitting accompanied by a thickening of the superficial zone. Under high loads, while the thickening and the splitting of the superficial zone further increase, the splitting in the radial and calcified zones completely collapse. Pressure‐induced changes in the thickness of the surface zone indicate flattening of the collagen fibers near the surface. The marked collapse of the splitting near the bone at high pressures may result from crimping of the collagen fibers. Magn Reson Med 48:322–330, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Attenuated HSP70 response in skeletal muscle of aged rats following contractile activity
Authors: Vasilaki Aphrodite , Jackson Malcolm J. , McArdle Anne
Published: October 2002

The aim of this study was to investigate the production of HSP70 in gastrocnemius muscles from adult (6‐month‐old) and aged (28‐month‐old) rats following contractile activity. At 24 h following a period of repeated isometric contractions, muscles from adult rats contained significantly elevated levels of HSP70 compared with nonexercised muscle. This was not evident in muscles from aged rats. This attenuated response may play a major role in development of the age‐related functional deficit that occurs in skeletal muscle. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Muscle Nerve 25: 000–000, 2002