bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cold‐climate origin of the enclosed depressions and wetlands (‘spungs’) of the Pine Barrens, southern New Jersey, USA
Authors: French Hugh M. , Demitroff Mark
Published: August 2002

The ‘frost‐thaw’ or thermokarst‐lake‐basin hypothesis, first invoked by P. E. Wolfe in 1953 to explain the enclosed depressions and shallow basins (‘spungs’) of southern New Jersey, is re‐examined. The most probable explanation is that they formed in late Wisconsinan times as deflation hollows, or ‘blowouts’, when strong katabatic winds flowed southwards from the continental ice margin across the sparsely vegetated, tundra terrain of the Pine Barrens. Wedge structures and cryoturbation phenomena suggest the existence of either permafrost or deep seasonal frost, and imply mean annual air temperatures of between −0.5 °C and −6 °C. When the groundwater table rose in late‐glacial times, the hollows became ponds or wetlands. These were utilized as early as 12,000 years ago by palaeoindian and early archaic cultures as hunting camp sites. Today, many of these wetlands are drying up as the regional water table falls in response to increased water usage from agriculture and urbanization. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Pharmacologically induced relaxation of tracheal smooth muscle is increased in hyperoxia‐exposed 15‐day‐old rats
Authors: Fayon Michael John , Denis Delphine , Molimard Mathieu , Berger Patrick , Choukroun Marie Luce , Demarquez Jean Louis , Marthan Roger , Clevel Huguette , Lachaud Jean Luc , Martinez Béatrice , Téchoueyres Pierre
Published: August 2002

Hyperoxia increases maximum airway contractility in newborn guinea pigs and immature rats. Studies examining the mechanisms of hyperoxia‐induced airway hyperresponsiveness have focused on contractile mechanisms, although excessive airway narrowing could be due to impaired relaxation. Our objective was to determine the effects of hyperoxia on airway structure and relaxing properties in juvenile rats exposed to an inspired fraction of oxygen (FiO2) of 0.5 within 24 hr of birth for 15 days, compared to a control group of air‐exposed rats. We studied the 1) tracheal smooth muscle surface area; and 2) in vitro relaxation in precontracted (carbachol, 1.10−3 M) isolated tracheal rings to increasing cumulative concentrations (10−8 to 10−4 M) of salbutamol.

There was no significant difference in the amount of smooth muscle between the hyperoxia and air‐exposed groups. Maximal relaxation of the isolated trachea to salbutamol was greater in the hyperoxia group than in the air‐exposed group when normalized to smooth muscle surface area (−12.69 ± 3.51 g/mm2 vs. − 8.49 ± 1.67 g/mm2; P (MANOVA) < 0.05) or expressed as maximal relaxation induced by 10−3 M theophylline (61% vs. 28%; P < 0.05).

In conclusion, salbutamol‐induced relaxation is enhanced (and not impaired) in newborn rats exposed to prolonged moderate hyperoxia. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2002; 33:124–129. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Use of computerized tomography and chest X‐rays in evaluating efficacy of aerosolized recombinant human DNase in cystic fibrosis patients younger than age 5 years: A preliminary study*
Authors: Nasr Samya Z. , Kuhns Lawrence R. , Brown Randall W. , Hurwitz Martin E. , Sanders Georgiana M. , Strouse Peter J.
Published: August 2002

The aim of this study was to evaluate the ability of high‐resolution computerized tomography (HRCT) of the chest and chest x‐rays (CXR) to determine efficacy of inhaled recombinant human DNase (rhDNase) in cystic fibrosis (CF) patients younger than 5 years of age. A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled pilot study of 12 patients with CF younger than 5 years of age, attending the University of Michigan Cystic Fibrosis Center (Ann Arbor, MI) was conducted. The changes in the HRCT and CXR score from baseline to day 100 of therapy were assessed using a previously validated scoring system.

The mean changes of HRCT scores between the rhDNase and placebo groups were found to be significant at the 95% level, with mean change ±  SE mean of − 1.00  ±  0.53 and 0.58  ±  0.24 for rhDNase and placebo groups, respectively (P  =  0.02). The difference in CXR score was not significant between the two groups. An analysis was performed to relate HRCT subscores to CXR score; only thickening of the intra‐interlobular septae was significantly correlated with the total CXR score (r  =  − 0.7, P < 0.01). There was improvement in the parents' assessments of the patients' well‐being, with improvement in physical activity, decreased cough, sleep quality, and appetite in those subjects receiving rhDNase.

We conclude that the administration of rhDNase was associated with improvement in the HRCT scan in CF patients younger than 5 years of age. Findings indicate that HRCT of the chest is useful and sensitive in studying responses to therapy in patients with CF lung disease. To our knowledge, this is the first report of the use of HRCT to assess the effectiveness of a therapeutic modality in so young a CF patient population. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2001; 31:377–382. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Human prostate cancer cell death by novel anticancer compounds, apoptosis‐inducing nucleosides from CD57+HLA‐DRbright natural suppressor cell line
Authors: Guo Maowu , Sato Eimei , Jin Aishun , Li Xiang , Mori Etsuko , Xu Yong , Mori Tsuneatsu
Published: August 2002

BACKGROUND

We validated the induction of apoptosis in human prostate cancer PC3 cells by apoptosis‐inducing nucleosides (AINs) released from the CD57+HLA‐DRbright‐natural suppressor (57.DR‐NS) cell line. We analyzed the molecular signaling pathway during AINs‐induced apoptosis in PC3 cells.

METHODS

Direct and indirect co‐cultures between 57.DR‐NS and PC3 cells were performed. AINs were isolated by high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) from 57.DR‐NS cell cultures. Apoptosis in PC3 cells was analyzed by DNA fragmentation, sub‐G1 DNA content with flow cytometry, and terminal deoxynucleotide transferase–mediated dUTP nick end‐labeling (TUNEL) method. The DNA strand breaks and activation of caspase‐3 in PC3 cells were measured by DNA unwinding and flow cytometry assay.

RESULTS

The 57.DR‐NS cell line generated apoptosis in PC3 cells via AINs. AINs isolated from 57.DR‐NS cell cultures induced apoptosis in PC3 cells. Furthermore, we found DNA strand breaks followed by activation of caspase‐3 during AINs‐induced apoptosis in PC3 cells.

CONCLUSIONS

The data obtained here indicated that AINs could induce apoptosis in PC3 cells through DNA strand breaks and activation of caspase‐3. Prostate 51: 166–174, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Multiple responses to EGF receptor activation and their abrogation by a specific EGF receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor
Authors: Harper Maureen E. , Goddard Lindy , Glynne‐Jones Eve , Assender Jean , Dutkowski Carol M. , Barrow Denise , Dewhurst Odette L. , Wakeling Alan E. , Nicholson Robert I.
Published: August 2002

BACKGROUND

Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGF‐R) autophosphorylation is essential for its intracellular mitogenic signaling via the MAPK pathway and for interaction in other cellular processes. Inhibition of this activity in tumor cells that predominantly utilise EGF‐R therefore offers an alternative approach to therapy.

METHODS

The ability of a specific inhibitor of EGF‐R tyrosine kinase, ZM 252868, (TKI) to alter various parameters related to growth in DU145 and PC3 cell lines was investigated, by immunocytochemistry, Northern blotting, Western blotting and invasion assays.

RESULTS

In DU145 cultures, the total cell population and number of cells in cell cycle decreased in the presence of TKI whilst the apoptotic rate was significantly increased. Reduction in autophosphorylation of the EGF‐R, membrane expression of EGF‐R, activation of the MAPK, p38, and JNK enzymes and the invasive capacity of DU145 cells was observed in the TKI treated cells. Under the same conditions, PC3 cell growth and EGF‐R expression and MAPK activation were not affected. The use of inhibitors of intracellular signaling indicated that the DU145 cells, in contrast to PC3 cells, predominantly utilize EGF‐R activation of the MAPK signaling pathway for growth.

CONCLUSIONS

In prostatic cancer patients, in whom androgen resistance has developed and whose tumors have upregulated EGF‐R for growth, specific TKI's may offer an important therapy option. Prostate 52: 59–68, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Differentiation and stromal‐induced growth promotion of murine prostatic tumors
Authors: Salm Sarah N. , Takao Tetsuya , Tsujimura Akira , Coetzee Sandra , Moscatelli David , Wilson E. Lynette
Published: August 2002

BACKGROUND

We have derived a panel of p53‐null prostatic “basal” and “luminal” epithelial cell lines and their ras transformed counterparts to study stromal/epithelial interactions and the properties of tumors arising from “basal” and “luminal” cells.

METHODS

Previously derived normal murine prostatic “basal” epithelial (PE‐B‐1) and “luminal” epithelial (PE‐L‐1) cell lines were transformed with N‐Ras. These lines and a spontaneously transformed “luminal” cell line were inoculated subcutaneously or orthotopically into athymic mice, alone or in combination with normal prostatic smooth muscle cells (SMC).

RESULTS

All transformed lines formed subcutaneous tumors. SMC significantly enhanced the growth rate of the tumors arising from the “basal” and one of the “luminal” cell lines. The transformed “basal” line gave rise to tumors expressing both “basal” and “luminal” cytokeratins.

CONCLUSIONS

Prostatic SMC promote the growth of transformed epithelial cells, suggesting that prostatic stroma may promote tumor development. Furthermore, transformed “basal” cells give rise to tumors containing “luminal” cells, suggesting that although most human tumors have a “luminal” phenotype, they may originate from transformed “basal” cells. Prostate 51: 175–188, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Association of polymorphisms within androgen receptor, 5α‐reductase, and PSA genes with prostate volume, clinical parameters, and endocrine status in elderly men
Authors: Schatzl Georg , Madersbacher Stephan , Gsur Andrea , Preyer Martin , Haidinger Gerald , Haitel Andrea , Vutuc Christian , Micksche Michael , Marberger Michael
Published: August 2002

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to assess the impact of polymorphisms of three genes within the androgen pathway on prostate volume, clinical parameters, and endocrine status.

METHODS

Elderly men with lower urinary tract symptoms underwent clinical and endocrine work‐up. In parallel, polymorphisms within the 5α‐reductase gene (SRD5A2 V89L and A49T), the androgen receptor gene (AR; number of CAG repeats), and the prostate specific antigen (PSA) gene (A → G substitution at position‐158) were determined by polymerase chain reaction and restriction‐length polymorphism analysis by using DNA from peripheral blood.

RESULTS

A total of 190 men (66.5 ± 9.2 yr) were analyzed. The number of CAG repeats within the AR and the PSA polymorphism revealed no associations to clinical and endocrine parameters. Individuals carrying the mutated SRD5A2 A49T allele (5.3% of the total population) had larger prostates (54.1 vs. 39.3 ml), higher PSA levels (12.2 vs. 4.3 ng/ml), and a 35% reduction in prostatic stroma/epithelial cell ratio. Men with the mutated SRD5A2 V89L gene had lower testosterone levels.

CONCLUSIONS

In contrast to prostate cancer, polymorphisms within AR and PSA genes do not seem to be of importance for benign prostatic hyperplasia. Polymorphisms within the 5α‐reductase gene are interesting biomarkers for the development of benign prostatic hyperplasia and benign prostatic enlargement. Prostate 52:130–138, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Expression of the matrix metalloproteinase promatrilysin in coculture of prostate carcinoma cell lines
Authors: Stratton M.S. , Sirvent H. , Udayakumar T.S. , Nagle R.B. , Bowden G.T.
Published: August 2002

Background

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are involved in tumor progression. Matrilysin (MMP‐7) has been shown to be upregulated in prostatic carcinomas and can increase the invasive capacity of DU‐145 cells. Because of the heterogenous nature of prostatic tumors, we examined promatrilysin expression in cocultures containing two different prostatic carcinoma cell lines, DU‐145 and LNCaP.

Methods

Using enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) analyses, promatrilysin expression was measured in DU‐145/LNCaP cocultures and conditioned media cross‐cultures. The effects of blocking IL‐6 on promatrilysin expression were examined by pretreating conditioned media with IL‐6 neutralizing antibody.

Results

A significant induction of promatrilysin expression was observed in DU‐145/LNCaP cocultures compared to LNCaP cells alone. In addition, DU‐145 conditioned medium induced the same fold induction of promatrilysin as was observed in the cocultures. LNCaP cell conditioned medium did not induce promatrilysin expression in DU‐145 cells. Neutralization of IL‐6 with neutralizing antibody abrogated DU‐145 conditioned media induced promatrilysin expression to baseline levels.

Conclusions

IL‐6 secreted by DU‐145 cells can induce promatrilysin expression in LNCaP cells. IL‐6, in vivo, may act as a paracrine signaling factor that regulates matrix metalloproteinase expression. Therefore, IL‐6 may play a role in invasive metastatic processes of a prostate carcinoma. Prostate 48:206–209, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Pyrethroid insecticide residues on vegetable crops
Authors: Ripley Brian D , Ritcey Gwen M , Harris C Ronald , Denommé Mary Anne , Brown Pamela D
Published: August 2002

Pyrethroid insecticides were applied on various vegetable crops as foliar treatments to determine dissipation rates. On Chinese broccoli (Guy Lon), Chinese mustard (Pak Choi) and Chinese cabbage (Kasumi, napa), fenvalerate was persistent with residues of 0.10, 0.14 and 0.11 mg kg−1, respectively, by day 21. Cypermethrin residues on head lettuce were below 0.1 mg kg−1 by day 10 but on the leafier romaine and endive varieties it was more persistent and required 14–19 days to dissipate below this concentration. After three applications, residues of cypermethrin in harvested carrots and of permethrin in eggplant were not detected on the day of application. On asparagus, deltamethrin and cypermethrin residues declined to less than 0.1 mg kg−1 by days 1 and 2, respectively; permethrin was more persistent, requiring more than 2 days to decline to less than 0.1 mg kg−1. Deltamethrin on dry (cooking) and Spanish onions was not detected on the day of application. On tomatoes, the concentration of permethrin was 0.093 mg kg−1 on the day of application and declined to about 0.05 mg kg−1 after 2–4 days. In general, permethrin, cypermethrin and deltamethrin residues declined to acceptable concentrations within an acceptable pre‐harvest interval. Fenvalerate may be too persistent on these speciality crops unless a maximum residue limit >0.1 mg kg−1 is permitted.

© 2001 Society of Chemical Industry
Analysis and management of resistance to chemotherapeutants in salmon lice, Lepeophtheirus salmonis (Copepoda: Caligidae)
Authors: Denholm Ian , Devine Gregor J , Horsberg Tor E , Sevatdal Sigmund , Fallang Anders , Nolan Damien V , Powell Richard
Published: August 2002

In Northern Europe and Canada, the salmon louse, Lepeophtheirus salmonis (Krøyer), seriously affects the marine phase of salmon production. Although the problem is long‐standing, the development of sustainable methods of pest management has been unable to keep pace with the intensification of production, leading to large‐scale reliance on very few chemotherapeutants. This runs the risk of selecting for genetically determined resistance in target organisms. There are many examples of similar evolutionary adaptations in arthropod pests of arable crops, livestock and human health. Several hundred pest species are now documented as being resistant to one or more chemical classes of insecticides and acaricides. Many of these compounds are identical or closely related to ones currently employed against salmon lice. It is, therefore, opportune to consider what lessons have been learnt from contending with resistance in terrestrial organisms, the implications for sustainable use of chemotherapeutants in aquaculture, and the potential for developing effective resistance management strategies. An EU‐funded project named SEARCH (QLK2‐CT‐2000‐00809) has been initiated to explore in more detail the diagnosis, incidence, dynamics and management of resistance to chemotherapeutants in L salmonis.

© 2002 Society of Chemical Industry
Influence of thermal motion on 1H chemical shifts in proteins: the case of bovine pancreatic trypsin inhibitor
Authors: Busetta Bernard , Picard Philippe , Precigoux Gilles
Published: August 2002

The possible influence of thermal motion on 1H chemical shifts is discussed for a small stable protein, the bovine pancreatic Kunitz trypsin inhibitor (BPTI). The thermal effects on the aromatic side chains and on the backbone are treated separately. The thermal motion of the aromatic side chains is accounted for in terms of their rotation around the CαCβ bond and the motion of each individual proton is interpreted as a ratio between the amount of ordered and quite disordered states. The influence of hydrogen bonds is introduced as an extra contribution to the chemical shifts of the bonded proton. Their contribution to the chemical shifts resulting from the polarization of the peptide bond is investigated, as is their influence on local flexibility. Finally, the relative importance of each contribution to the chemical shift information is compared. Copyright © 2001 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Protein design and folding: template trapping of self‐assembled helical bundles
Authors: Grell Daniel , Richardson Jane S. , Mutter Manfred
Published: August 2002

An experimental system is described, permitting a detailed and systematic analysis of the factors governing self‐assembly of amphipathic helices, e.g. to a four‐helical bundle, a subject of major relevance for tertiary structure formation, protein folding and design. Following the Template Assembled Synthetic Proteins (TASP) approach, helices of different packing potential are competitively assembled in solution with a preformed two‐helix TASP molecule, and after equilibration are covalently attached (‘template trapping’) via chemoselective thioether formation. The quantitative analysis of the individual TASP molecules by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and electrospray mass spectrometry (ES‐MS) allows the delineation of the role of complementary packing in helix bundle formation. The procedure established represents a general tool for the experimental verification of modern concepts in molecular recognition. Copyright © 2001 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis and spectroscopic characterization of protected N‐phosphonomethylglycine dipeptides
Authors: Ziora Zyta , Kafarski Paweł , Holband Jolanta , Wójcik Grażyna
Published: August 2002

A series of terminally blocked dipeptides containing C‐terminal N‐phosphonomethylglycine (glyphosate, an extremely effective non‐selective post‐emergence herbicide) have been synthesized by a solution method. The presence of their two conformers, cis (syn) and trans (anti), was shown in solutions by NMR spectroscopy. Molecular structures of the peptides were also determined in the solid state by X‐ray diffraction. The attempts for the selective and total removal of the groups protecting amino, carboxylic and phosphonate functions were in many cases unsuccessful due to the formation of cyclic structures and breakage of the phosphorus‐to‐carbon bond. Copyright © 2001 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Conformation of N‐terminal HIV‐1 tat (fragment 1–9) peptide by NMR and MD simulations
Authors: Kanyalkar Meena , Srivastava Sudha , Coutinho Evans
Published: August 2002

The N‐terminal portion of HIV‐1 Tat covering residues 1–9 is a competitive inhibitor of dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DP IV). We have used 1H NMR techniques, coupled with molecular dynamics methods, to determine the conformation of this peptide in the three diverse media: DMSO‐d6, water (pH 2.7) and 40% HFA solution. The results indicate that in both DMSO‐d6 and HFA the peptide has a tendency to acquire a type I β‐turn around the segment Asp5‐Pro6‐Asn7‐Ile8. The N‐terminal end is seen to be as a random coil. In water, the structure is best described as a left‐handed polyproline type II (PPII) helix for the mid segment region Asp2 to Pro6. The structures obtained in this study have been compared with an earlier report on Tat (1–9). Copyright © 2000 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Gel‐phase synthesis of hydrophobic [Thr14] [Thr19] Galanin (1–19) fragment on a high capacity flexible crosslinked polystyrene support
Authors: Krishna Kumar I. M. , Mathew Beena
Published: August 2002

A hydrophobic analogue of human galanin (1–19) fragment has been synthesized using Boc/Bzl tactics to demonstrate the synthetic utility of the flexible crosslinked polystyrene support prepared by the suspension polymerization of styrene and 1,4‐butanediol dimethacrylate. The copolymer was chloromethylated to 2.36 mmol Cl/g. The functionalized resin was found to possess all the physicochemical properties similar to Merrifield resin. The free peptide was obtained in high yield and purity as judged by RP‐HPLC and characterized by amino acid analysis and ESI‐MS. Copyright © 2000 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Synthesis, conformation and biological activity of linear and cyclic Thr6‐bradykinin analogues containing N‐benzylglycine in place of phenylalanine
Authors: Biondi L. , Filira F. , Gobbo M. , Scolaro B. , Rocchi R. , Galeazzi R. , Orena M. , Zeegers A. , Piek T.
Published: August 2002

Three linear Thr6‐bradykinin analogues in which either one or both the two phenylalanine residues in the peptide sequence have been substituted by N‐benzylglycine (BzlGly) and their head‐to‐tail cyclic analogues were synthesized and tested on an isolated rat duodenum preparation. The linear (BzlGly5,Thr6‐BK, BzlGly8,Thr6‐BK and BzlGly5,8,Thr6‐BK) and the cyclic (cyclo BzlGly5,Thr6‐BK, cyclo BzlGly8,Thr6‐BK and cyclo BzlGly5,8,Thr6‐BK) peptoid‐like analogues were characterized by amino acid analysis, optical rotation, analytical HPLC and MALDI‐TOF mass spectroscopy. The conformational features of both the linear and cyclic derivatives were investigated by FT‐IR and CD measurements. Preliminary molecular mechanics calculations were also performed on some synthetic peptides. Pharmacological screening using the relaxation of the isolated rat duodenum preparation showed that incorporation of N‐benzylglycine at positions 5 and/or 8 in the linear Thr6‐BK causes a substantial decrease in potency. Comparable incorporation in cyclo Thr6‐BK, at position 8, or 5 and 8, resulted in nearly inactive analogues. However, cyclo BzlGly5,Thr6‐BK showed a potency which is of the same order of magnitude as for cyclo‐BK and cyclo Thr6‐BK. Copyright © 2001 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Advanced analysis of composite frames
Authors: Liew J Y R , Uy B
Published: August 2002

The issue of design codes is becoming continually challenged throughout the world. Over the last decade, design codes in structural engineering have seen an increase in harmonization with the preparation of regional codes and material specific model codes. In particular, this has been highlighted by European code releases in most construction materials. In Australasia, there have also been an increasing number of design codes published as combined Australian and New Zealand codes. In Asia there have been initial moves to create a regional code in concrete structures. In addition to the harmonization of international codes, many structural design codes are moving away from prescriptive methods and toward performance‐based approaches. The gradual shift toward international harmonization and performance‐ based specifications puts increased pressure on design engineers to have appropriate software and design tools to assess the real behaviour of structures. Considerable research has been conducted into advanced analysis methods in steel and composite members and frames over the last two decades. Whilst their use has been limited mainly to considering investigations of structural failure and very special structures, the emergence of performance based international codes may see an increased need and reliance on these approaches. This paper highlights the recent development in advanced analysis of composite members and frames, and discusses the issues that are essential for design implementation. Some illustrative examples are also given to demonstrate the benefits of using advanced analysis for designing real‐sized structures.
Effects of antiinflammatory triterpenes isolated from Leptadenia hastata latex on Keratinocyte Proliferation
Authors: Nikiéma J. B. , Vanhaelen‐Fastré R. , Vanhaelen M. , Fontaine J. , De Graef C. , Heenen M.
Published: August 2002

Several triterpenes isolated from Leptadenia hastata latex were tested for their anti‐inflammatory activity. Lupeol (1), its acetate (2) and palmitate (3) esters were found to be the main antiinflammatory constituents in the croton oil‐induced ear oedema test. Furthermore, lupeol hemisuccinate (4), synthesized from lupeol, exhibited a higher activity than lupeol in the test. These results prove that the triterpenes play a pivotal role in the topical antiinflammatory effect of this latex.

In addition, an in vitro model of human skin keratinocytes (epidermal explants) cultured at an air–liquid interface on a de‐epidermized human dermis (DED) was used to investigate the effects of lupeol esters on skin repair in vitro. Compared with the control, compounds 2 and 3 improved keratinocyte proliferation at a concentration of 5 µM in the culture medium; however, they remained less active than compounds 1 and 4. In contrast to compound 1, all the lupeol esters (2–4), and particularly compound 4, induced a good differentiation of keratinocytes with a well‐formed stratum corneum without parakeratosis. These results substantiate the topical use of Leptadenia hastata latex in traditional medicine and showed that both antiinflammatory activity and the effect on keratinocyte proliferation of compound 1 could be improved by its hemisuccinylation; on the contrary, esterification by acetylation or palmitoylation decreased these activities. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Mutagenicity and antioxidant assessment of Stachitarpheta jamaicensis (L.) Vahl.
Authors: Ramos Alberto , Piloto Janet , Visozo Angel , García Arilia , Lastra Humberto , de León Heidy Ponce
Published: August 2002

Stachitarpheta jamaicensis (L.) Vahl. is a member of the Verbenaceae commonly used in Cuba, mainly as vermifugue and against diarrhoea. The mutagenic potential of a hydroalcohol extract of its aerial parts was assessed in vitro using the Salmonella/microsome assay and in vivo in the mouse bone marrow micronucleus test. No positive response was observed in a battery of four Salmonella typhimurium strains employed: TA 1535, TA 1537, TA 98 and TA 100, when exposed to concentrations up to 5 mg/plate, with and without mammalian metabolic activation. In the same way, no increase in the micronucleus frequency in mitotic erythropoietic tissue was observed when animals were administered the extract orally in doses of 500, 1000 and 2000 mg/kg. The extract inhibited lipid peroxidation in the rat liver microsomal fraction (IC50 = 3.6 µg/mL) but it does not seem to be an effective ·OH radical scavenger (IC50 = 76.7 µg/mL). Noteworthy, it increased in a dose dependent way the level of revertant colonies in E. coli IC 203, a strain sensitive to oxidative mutagenesis, when assayed together with hydrogen peroxide and ferrous sulphate, which suggests a pro‐oxidant action. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Antimicrobial study of bark from five tree species
Authors: Pérez G. Salud , Zavala S. Miguel A. , Arias G. Lucina , Pérez G. Cuauhtemoc , Pérez G. Rosa M.
Published: August 2002

The antimicrobial activities of chloroform, methanol and aqueous extracts of the bark of Gymnanthes lucida, Gliricidia sepium, Lysiloma divaricata, Lysiloma tergemina and Coccolaba cozumelensis were tested against S. lutea, E. coli, S. epidermidis, L. monocytogenes, S. choleraesuis, S. aureus, P. aeruginosa, B. pumillus, S. typhimurium, P. vulgaris, V. cholerae and C. albicans.

It was found that methanol extracts of the two Lysiloma species and G. sepium had antimicrobial effects against S. epidermidis, S. aureus, P. aeruginosa, B. pumillus and V. cholerae at doses of 200 µg. The major inhibitory effect was observed with L. tergemina which showed a bacteriostatic effect on S. epidermidis at doses of 400 µg/mL. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Neuroprotective Effects of Withania somnifera Dunn. in Hippocampal Sub‐regions of Female Albino Rat
Authors: Jain Sushma , Shukla Sunil Dutt , Sharma Kanika , Bhatnagar Maheep
Published: August 2002

The neuroprotective effects of W. somnifera were studied on stressed adult female Swiss albino rats. Experimental rats were subjected to immobilization stress for 14 h and were treated with a root powder extract of W. somnifera available as Stresscom capsules (Dabur India Ltd). Control rats were maintained in completely, non stressed conditions. Thionin stained serial coronal sections (7 μm) of brain passing through the hippocampal region of stressed rats (E1 group) demonstrated 85% degenerating cells (dark cells and pyknotic cells) in the CA2 and CA3 sub‐areas. Treatment with W. somnifera root powder extract significantly reduced (80%) the number of degenerating cells in both the areas. The study thus demonstrates the antistress neuroprotective effects of W. somnifera. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Antihypertensive effect of an aqueous extract of Zygophyllum coccineum L. in rats
Authors: Gibbons S. , Oriowo M. A.
Published: August 2002

The effects of an aqueous extract of Zygophyllum coccineum L. on rat blood pressure (BP) and on the mesenteric vascular bed were investigated. The extract dose‐dependently reduced BP and heart rate in normotensive and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs). It also reduced BP in pithed SHRs. In vitro, the extract had no effect on basal perfusion pressure of the mesenteric vascular bed. When the perfusion pressure was raised with noradrenaline or potassium chloride, the extract produced a dose‐dependent reduction in perfusion pressure. However, in preparations in which the perfusion pressure was raised with KCl, the depressor response to lower doses of the extract was abolished while higher doses produced responses that were reduced in magnitude when compared with similar responses in preparations in which the perfusion pressure was raised with noradrenaline. It was concluded that extracts of Z. coccineum possess significant antihypertensive activity that may involve some membrane hyperpolarization. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quaternary benzo[c]phenanthridine alkaloids as inhibitors of aminopeptidase N and dipeptidyl peptidase IV
Authors: Šedo Aleksi , Vlašicová Květoslava , Barták Petr , Vespalec Radim , Vičar Jaroslav , Šimánek Vilim , Ulrichová Jitka
Published: August 2002

Chelerythrine, sanguinarine and an alkaloid extract from Macleaya cordata—sanguiritrin—were found to be inhibitors of aminopeptidase A and dipeptidyl peptidase IV, while fagaronine inhibited dipeptidyl peptidase IV only. At 50 μM, chelerythrine, sanguinarine and sanguiritrin inhibited aminopeptidase N by 82%, 82%, 88%, DPP IV by 38%, 62%, 57%, and fagaronine by 34%, respectively. When bovine serum albumin (500 μg/mL) was added, the inhibition of both proteases by quaternary benzo[c]phenanthridine alkaloids (QBA) (50 μM) was significantly diminished. Strong interaction of chelerythrine and sanguinarine with bovine and human serum albumin was proved by electrophoretic determination of their respective conditional binding constants. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Metabolism of 1,8‐dihydroxy 3‐hydroxy methyl anthraquinone (aloe‐emodin) isolated from the leaves of Cassia tora in albino rats
Authors: Maity Tapan K. , Mandal Subhash C. , Bhakta T. , Pal M. , Saha B. P.
Published: August 2002

Cassia tora is a wellknown plant of India. Aloe‐emodin was isolated from the leaves of this plant and its metabolism pattern was studied. The results showed that about 15.4% of the administered aloe‐emodin was excreted and the rest was probably bound or metabolized in the system. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
What's new?
Authors: Bohaychuk Wendy
Published: August 2002

Starting with this issue, the Quality Assurance Journal introduces a section which aims to draw your attention to significant events of importance to quality assurance (QA) professionals. Each item will be linked to the relevant Internet address which you might add to your ‘favourites’ folders and check regularly yourselves. If there is any other new information which should be brought to the attention of readers, please let us know by e‐mailing gcrpc@compuserve.com Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Bayesian tolerance interval control limits for attributes
Authors: Hamada Michael
Published: August 2002

The probability content of standard control limits for attributes can vary because distribution parameters that appear in the control limits are estimated based on previous data. This paper proposes using Bayesian tolerance interval control limits which control the probability content at a specified level with a given confidence. Bayesian tolerance interval control limits are developed for np, p, c and u charts and are illustrated with four examples from the literature. Moreover, Bayesian tolerance interval control limits can be used for processes at start‐up. Published in 2002 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An embedded QM/MM study for different SiO2/Al2O3 ratios of the HZSM‐5 zeolite and for their interaction with n‐heptane
Authors: Martínez‐Magadán J. M. , Cuán A. , Castro M.
Published: August 2002

We carried out a theoretical study of the HZSM‐5 zeolite, for different SiO2/Al2O3 ratios, that interacts with the n‐heptane molecule. The study was performed using a QM/MM (quantum mechanics/molecular mechanics) methodology. For the QM part, we have chosen a hybrid Hartree‐Fock density functional theory (DFT). The hybrid ACM/DZP approach, as implemented in Turbomole, was used for the treatment of the QM cluster containing 84 atoms that represents a ring structure model of the zeolite‐n‐heptane interacting system. The MM part was represented by means of an electrostatic forcefield (ESFF), which assesses the electronic embedding. The chosen QM/MM silicalite base model contains 3862 atoms. The studied SiO2/Al2O3 ratios were 2300, 573.5, 287.7, and 189.83, containing 1, 4, 8, and 12 Al atoms, respectively. For the first ratio, the site for the substitution of Al for Si was that of minimum QM total energy value, because this replacement was done in the QM region. For the other SiO2/Al2O3 ratios, the Al atoms were randomly spread through the MM region in accordance with the Lowenstein substitution rule. These results show the importance of the environment on the electronic properties in the QM region, where the active site lies, and their effects on the earlier steps on the activation experienced by the n‐heptane moiety. A minimal content of 12 Al atoms produces significant effects of the environment on the electronic structure of the QM region. Moreover, the carbocationic character of n‐heptane increases with the aluminum content. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2002
Theoretical study of the structural, vibrational, and topologic properties of the charge distribution of the molecular complexes between thiophene and Brönsted acid sites of zeolites
Authors: Soscún Humberto , Castellano Olga , Hernández Javier , Hinchliffe Alan
Published: August 2002

The main interaction between thiophene and zeolites leads to the formation of a hydrogen bond between the S atom of thiophene and the OH group of zeolites, giving 1:1 stable molecular complexes. The present work reports a theoretical study about the structural, vibrational, and topologic properties of the charge distribution of the molecular complexes between thiophene and a series of Brönsted acid sites of zeolites, modeled as the H3SiOHAlH3(B1), (OH)3Si(OH)Al(OH)3(B1OH), and H3Si(OH)Al(OH)2OSiH3(B2) clusters. The studied properties were calculated at a Hartree–Fock level with the standard 6‐31+G(d,p) basis set. Additionally, electron correlation effects for geometric and vibrational properties were evaluated at second‐order Møller–Plesset (MP2) and BLYP for B1–thiophene complex, whereas the BLYP technique was employed for the complexes of thiophene with B1OH and B2 clusters. Symmetry restriction was considered for structure calculations, beingC2vfor thiophene,Csfor zeolite clusters, andCslinear conformation for the complexes. It was found that these linear thiophene–zeolite complexes reproduce the tendencies in the experimental frequency shifts of the OH vibration mode from the adsorption of thiophene in ZSM5 zeolites. The topologic properties of the complexes give a pattern for the interaction of thiophene–zeolite. The results are compared with previous ones from silanol–thiophene calculations. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2001
Henry constants predicted using multipole expansion for the interaction energies
Authors: Tielens Frederik , Geerlings Paul
Published: August 2002

In line with the former studies of our group concerning the ab initio (parameter‐free) calculation of adsorption‐related properties, a new simple and powerful method is presented and applied to the adsorption of N2, O2, CO, CO2, and C2H2in zeolite Y. The calculation method is investigated and some refinements on the calculation strategy are introduced. The calculation method is based on the expansion of the interaction energy in terms of the multipole moments and polarizabilities. The molecular electrical properties were calculated at a high level on the B3LYP/cc‐aug‐pV(Q or 5)Z. A relationship between the van der Waals radius and the radius of an atom of the interacting molecule in a charge field is proposed. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Int J Quant Chem 84: 58–69, 2001
Approximate transferability in alkanenitriles
Authors: López Jos Luis , Mandado Marcos , Graña Ana M. , Mosquera Ricardo A.
Published: August 2002

The atomic and bond properties of a series of alkanenitriles were calculated in order to analyze the transferability of the CN, methyl, and methylene groups. The calculations were carried out using the atoms in molecules (AIM) theory on RHF/6‐31++G**// RHF/6‐31G** wave functions obtained for compounds CN–R (R ranging from H to C11H23). Linear correlations betweenL(Ω) andN(Ω) were used to establish N(CH2) and N(CH3) nearly transferable values. Average values and maximum differences to the mean value of several properties were used for classifying the CN group. It shows a transferable behavior along the CN–R series for R>Et. The methyl group presents specific properties when R<Pr. The methylene groups can be classified considering both their position with respect to the end of the chain and the position with respect to the CN group. The atomic energy displays a dependence on the molecular size. Although this behavior does not allow to consider this property as transferable, both the ab initio total electronic molecular energies and the experimental heats of formation can be fitted, by linear regression analysis, as a function of the number of methylene groups. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Int J Quantum Chem, 2001
Ion fragmentation in an electrospray ionization mass spectrometer interface with different gases
Authors: Schneider Bradley B. , Douglas D. J. , Chen David D. Y.
Published: August 2002

Nitrogen, argon, and krypton are used as curtain gases in an electrospray ionization mass spectrometer in an attempt to study the effect of these gases on the extent of ion fragmentation between the orifice and the skimmer of the interface region. A previously published collision model predicts that the degree of ion fragmentation increases with increasing mass of the curtain gas. However, the fragmentation yields are found to be the opposite to that expected. It is believed that the reversed trend with argon and krypton is caused by condensation of the gases within the free jet expansion between the orifice and the skimmer. A condensation parameter can be used to predict the degree of clustering of gases within a free jet expansion. When the condensation parameter is minimized, the predicted trend of fragmentation with mass is observed. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
δ13C‐ and δ18O‐Values of glycerol of food fats
Authors: Fronza Giovanni , Fuganti Claudio , Grasselli Piero , Serra Stefano , Reniero Fabiano , Guillou Claude
Published: August 2002

The average values of carbon and oxygen isotopic contents (δ13C and δ18O) of 36 glycerol samples from fats have been determined. The examined samples arise from many fats of animal and plant origin, as well as from the three Italian hard cheeses Parmigiano‐Reggiano, Grana Padano and Trentingrana. The total 13C content allows one to distinguish between glycerol from plants with the C‐4 carbon fixation pathway (maize, mean δ13C = −14.4‰) and that from plants with the C‐3 pathway (mean δ13C = −30.7‰). The δ13C‐values of glycerols of animal origin seem to depend on the diet of the animal, as suggested by the mean values −29.6, −29.0 and −25.1‰, respectively, observed for Parmigiano‐Reggiano, Trentingrana and Grana Padano. Additionally, the mean total 18O content of glycerol samples of vegetable origin is approximately 23.8‰, while that from animal fat is 15.1‰. However, the δ18O mean values relative to Parmigiano‐Reggiano, Grana Padano and Trentingrana are 11.8, 16.0 and 13.8‰, respectively. The combination of the 13C and 18O measurements relative to the fat glycerol of the three cheeses might be considered a potential criterion of authentication. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Analysis of plant phosphatidylcholines by matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry
Authors: Zabrouskov Vladimir , Al‐Saad Khalid A. , Siems William F. , Hill Herbert H. , Knowles N. Richard
Published: August 2002

The use of matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) time‐of‐flight (TOF) mass spectrometry (MS) for the quantitative determination of phospholipid (PL) molecular species has been problematic, due primarily to the formation of multiple signals (corresponding to the molecular ion and other adducts) for some classes of PL. For example, analysis of phosphatidylcholine (PC) yielded signals that corresponded to protonated and sodiated molecules in the MALDI spectrum. The resulting spectral overlap among various molecular species (e.g. [PC(16:0/18:2) + Na] and [PC(18:2/18:3)]) made it impossible to ascertain their relative amounts using this technique. Other spectral ambiguities existed among different structural isomers, such as PC(18:1/18:1) and PC(18:0/18:2). We determined that molecular species could be resolved by MALDI‐TOFMS by first removing the polar head (e.g. phosphocholine) from the phospholipid to effect production of only the sodiated molecules of the corresponding diacylglycerols (DAGs). Analysis of the resulting spectrum allowed unequivocal determination of the molecular species profile of PC from potato tuber and soybean. Estimation of fatty acid composition based on the molecular species determined by MALDI‐TOFMS analysis agreed with that from GC‐FID analysis. Post‐source decay (PSD) was used to resolve standard isomers of PC (e.g. 18:1/18:1 vs. 18:0/18:2). Our results indicated that PSD is a useful approach for resolving structural isomers of PL molecular species. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Removal, Handling, and Thermal Desorption Treatment Techniques for Manufactured Gas Plant Wastes
Authors: Musterait Todd M.
Published: August 2002

Due to the nature of contamination typically found at former MGP (manufactured gas plant) sites,
excavation and thermal desorption of MGP wastes has proven to be an effective method for the remediation of
MGP‐contaminated soil. The use of on‐site thermal desorption enables MGP sites to be quickly
remediated at a low cost. Tar pits, holders, and other underground storage structures typically contain coal tar
residuals and waste from former operations, and the areas around these structures are often significantly
contaminated. Thus, excavation techniques, odor and vapor management, and material preparation for the treatment
method are important factors to consider when developing a site remediation strategy. This article reviews
typical excavation and handling methods associated with the remediation of former MGP sites and discusses the
treatment of MGP wastes using on‐site thermal desorption technology. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons,
Inc.
Managing contaminated sites and the role of domestic and international forums
Authors: Guerin Turlough F.
Published: August 2002

Domestic and international cooperation in the field of contaminated‐site management has increased
dramatically in the past decade. The expected benefits of this cooperation include the reduction of duplication
in remediation efforts, the coordination of contaminated‐site research, improved synergy between various
stakeholders, enhanced policy development, and better information dissemination and technology transfer. This
article identifies and briefly discusses key domestic and international collaborations, partnerships, and
networks relating to contaminated‐site management and remediation. Also provided is information on how the
forums can be accessed. Common themes identified across the forums discussed in this article include
(1) the development and demonstration of innovative technologies, (2) the use of risk
assessment, (3) the use of toxicology, bioavailability, and ecotoxicity testing, and (4) the
increasing need to find holistic approaches for managing contaminated sites, such as guaranteed remediation
programs and transfer of environment liability, and the need for understanding implications of remediation
financing mechanisms. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
A real‐time dual‐arm collision avoidance algorithm for assembly
Authors: Lee Sukhan , Moradi Hadi
Published: August 2002

Multirobot workcells provide efficiency of space, time, and materials in assembly. However, this advantage cannot be fully utilized unless an efficient off‐line/on‐line collision‐free trajectory planner is in charge of controlling the arms. In this article a new algorithm which provides the on‐line and real‐time generation of dual‐arm collision‐free trajectories has been established. The algorithm is capable of generating dual‐arm collision‐free trajectories in real‐time despite the fact that the initial configurations of two arms are not synchronized. The algorithm is based on two sections: collision detection and path planning. The collision detection section uses a fast geometric approach based on link intersection. The path planning section, the key component of the algorithm, uses the virtual road map which gives the best collision‐free motion at each given arm configuration. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.