bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prenatal Diagnosis of Unilateral Cerebellar Hypoplasia
Authors: McCollom Deborah , Rashidian John
Published: April 2003

Fetal cerebellar anomalies are rarely isolated or asymmetric. Cerebellar hypoplasia is frequently diagnosed by second trimester prenatal sonology. The prognosis for cerebellar hypoplasia is dismal when associated with a trisomy, spina bifida, or other anomalies such as Arnold-Chiari malformation. Presented is a case of unilateral cerebellar hypoplasia with apparently normal neurologic outcome. The fetal brain anatomy appeared normal at 24 weeks gestation. Unilateral cerebellar hypoplasia was diagnosed at 32 weeks demonstrating destruction of a normally formed fetal structure. The cause was unknown.
Granular Cell Tumor: A Benign Mimicker of Breast Carcinoma
Authors: Carr-Hoefer Catherine
Published: April 2003

Granular cell tumor is an uncommon benign neoplasm that, on rare occasions, presents as a breast mass. The diagnosis of this lesion can be challenging since it can mimic invasive breast carcinoma on clinical, imaging, and gross pathologic examination. Extensive surgery can be avoided by obtaining a preoperative histologic diagnosis by percutaneous core biopsy or directional vacuum-assisted biopsy with sonographic or mammographic guidance.
Utilizing 3D Ultrasound to Visualize Trisomy 18 Abnormalities in the First Trimester
Authors: Ballard-Taraschi Kay , Roberts Dawn , Thompson Susan
Published: April 2003

Cytogenic abnormalities affect 1 in every 200 children; they are associated with multiple congenital abnormalities and with a high perinatal mortality rate. The long-term prognosis is usually poor. Knowing these facts, early detection is of great importance, both for the expecting parents and the health care providers. The following case was an incidental finding on a routine ultrasound scan. Using 3D ultrasound proved to be invaluable in helping the parents to better understand and visualize the defects.
Sonographic Evaluation of Peyronie’s Disease
Authors: Gentry Brooke , Akin Linda , Hancock Jody Arnold
Published: April 2003

Peyronie’s disease is found in approximately 1% of men, often with resultant abnormal curvature of the penis. Fibrous plaque (scar tissue) develops in the superficial areas of the tissue, causing restriction or tightening of the penis during erection. There are several causes linked to the disease, including trauma, medications, autoimmune disorder, and Dupuytren’s contracture. Recently, sonographic assessment of the penis has become the next diagnostic approach that physicians will consider to better diagnose this disease. A penile sonogram can readily assess the presence, size, and location of plaque causing the curvature, as well as provide information about blood flow within the organ, to better assist physicians during treatment and follow-up. Treatments may include oral medication, radiation therapy, topical applications, injectable agents, electrical therapy, ultrasound therapy, and surgery.
Influence of extracorporeal photopheresis on clinical and laboratory parameters in chronic graft-versus-host disease and analysis of predictors of response
Authors: Seaton Edward D. , Szydlo Richard M. , Kanfer Edward , Apperley Jane F. , Russell-Jones Robin
Published: April 2003

We report 28 patients with advanced chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD) treated with extracorporeal photopheresis (ECP). All had failed conventional immunosuppressive therapy. Of the patients, 27 had extensive cGVHD and 20 had more than 50% cutaneous surface area involvement. ECP was initiated approximately 2 years after onset of cGVHD and 3 years following allogeneic stem cell transplantation and administered fortnightly for 4 months and then monthly. Response was assessed using quantifiable disease measures, including skin score, liver function tests (LFTs), blood counts, and lung function tests. Regression analysis allowed assessment of any pretreatment clinical or laboratory parameters that predicted response. There were 25 patients who completed 3 months and 21 who completed 6 months of treatment. Systemic immunosuppression was stable or reduced in 86% of patients. There were 3 patients who died from cGVHD. After 6 months, median skin scores were 53% lower (P = .003) in sclerodermoid and lichenoid disease. Of 6 patients with mucosal ulceration, 3 improved. A nonsignificant improvement of LFTs occurred. We infer that ECP is effective even in patients with extensive cutaneous cGVHD of 2 years duration that is resistant to conventional therapy. Furthermore, both sclerodermoid and lichenoid subtypes responded. However, no baseline parameters predicted a favorable response to ECP, so patient selection must continue to be made on clinical grounds.
Stem cell transplantation for chronic myeloid leukemia in children
Authors: Cwynarski Kate , Roberts Irene A. G. , Iacobelli Simona , van Biezen Anja , Brand Ronald , Devergie Agnes , Vossen Jaak M. , Aljurf Mahmoud , Arcese William , Locatelli Franco , Dini Giorgio , Niethammer Dietrich , Niederwieser Dietger , Apperley Jane F. ,   for the Paediatric and Chronic Leukaemia Working Parties of the European Group for Blood and Marrow Transplantation
Published: April 2003

Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (SCT) is the only proven cure for chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), a rare disease in childhood. We report outcomes of 314 children with Philadelphia-chromosome–positive (Ph+) CML undergoing SCT from HLA-matched siblings (n = 182) or volunteer-unrelated donors (VUD; n = 132). Three-year overall survival (OS) and leukemia-free survival (LFS) rates were 66% and 55% (n = 314). For 156 children in first chronic phase (CP1) who underwent transplantation from HLA-identical siblings, OS and LFS rates were 75% and 63%. For 97 children who underwent SCT in CP1 from VUD, 3-year OS and LFS rates were 65% and 56%, reflecting higher transplantation-related mortality (TRM) after VUD SCT (35% vs 20%; multivariate hazard ratio [HR], 1.9; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.0-3.5; P = .05). In a multivariate model for OS and LFS, outcomes were superior in CP1 than in advanced phase (AP/CP1) (OS HR, 2.0; 95% CI, 1.3-3; P = .001; LFS HR, 1.8; 95% CI, 1.2-2.6; P = .003). For relapse, donor source (VUD/sibling) (HR, 0.38; 95% CI, 0.19-0.76; P = .006) and disease stage (AP/CP1) (HR, 2.4; 95% CI, 1.36-4.3; P = .003) were significant. This is the first large series to show that SCT confers long-term LFS in most children with CML and helps assess alternative therapy, including tyrosine kinase inhibitors.
Involvement of nitric oxide in farnesyltransferase inhibitor–mediated apoptosis in chronic myeloid leukemia cells
Authors: Selleri Carmine , Maciejewski Jaroslaw P. , Montuori Nunzia , Ricci Patrizia , Visconte Valeria , Serio Bianca , Luciano Luigiana , Rotoli Bruno
Published: April 2003

The mechanism of action of farnesyltransferase inhibitors (FTIs) has not been fully clarified. We investigated the cytotoxic effects of various FTIs in chronic myeloid leukemia (CML), using LAMA cells and marrow cells from 40 CML patients in chronic phase. FTI-mediated cytotoxic effect was observed in LAMA cells and in 65% of primary CML cells, whereas marrow cells from controls were only weakly affected. Cytotoxic effects were partially related to enhanced apoptosis; however, Fas-receptor (FasR) and Fas-ligand (FasL) expression were not modified by FTIs. Susceptibility to FTI-mediated inhibition did not correlate with FasR/FasL expression in CD34+ CML cells. Moreover, intra-cellular activation of caspase-1 and -8 were not altered by FTIs, and their blockade did not reverse FTI toxicity. However, we observed FTI-induced activation of caspase-3, and its inhibition partially reverted FTI-induced apoptosis. FTIs did not modulate bcl2, bclxL, and bclxS expression, whereas they increased inducible nitric oxide (iNOS) mRNA and protein levels, resulting in higher NO production. Furthermore, C3 exoenzyme, a Rho inhibitor, significantly increased iNOS expression in CML cells, suggesting that FTIs may up-regulate NO formation at least partially through FTI-mediated inhibition of Rho. We conclude that FTIs induce selective apoptosis in CML cells via activation of iNOS and caspase-3.
Hyperhomocysteinemia in cerebral vein thrombosis
Authors: Martinelli Ida , Battaglioli Tullia , Pedotti Paola , Cattaneo Marco , Mannucci Pier M.
Published: April 2003

High plasma levels of total homocysteine (tHcy) are a risk factor for deep vein thrombosis. Because no information on the relationship between cerebral vein thrombosis and hyperhomocysteinemia is available, a case–control study of 121 patients with a first episode of cerebral vein thrombosis and 242 healthy control subjects was carried out. Fasting plasma levels of tHcy and their postmethionine load (PML) increments, together with other laboratory markers of thrombophilia, were measured in plasma or DNA. Hyperhomocysteinemia (high fasting tHcy and/or PML increments) was diagnosed in 33 patients (27%) and 20 control subjects (8%) (odds ratio, 4.2; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.3-7.6). Low levels of serum folate and the 677TT methylene tetrahydrofolate reductase were associated with hyperhomocysteinemia, but in a multivariate model hyperhomocysteinemia only was associated with an increased risk of cerebral vein thrombosis. Oral contraceptive intake was associated with the disease with an odds ratio of 6.1 (95% CI, 3.3-11.0). The combined presence of the latter and hyperhomocysteinemia increased the risk of the disease with an odds ratio of 19.5 (95% CI, 5.7-67.3). In conclusion, hyperhomocysteinemia is associated with a 4-fold increased risk of cerebral vein thrombosis; whether or not its correction with vitamins reduces the risk of the disease remains to be demonstrated.
Biological monitoring of carbon disulphide: kinetics of urinary 2-thiothiazolidine-4-carboxylic acid (TTCA) in exposed workers
Authors: Chang Ho-Yuan , Chou Tzu-Chieh , Wang Peng-Yau , Shih Tung-Sheng
Published: April 2003

The objectives of this study was to establish the kinetics of urinary 2-thiothiazolidine-4-carboxylic acid (UTTCA) for workers exposed to carbon disulphide (CS2) and to investigate the effects of volume and creatinine adjustment methods for urine measurement. Ten workers in the spinning department of a rayon factory were individually monitored for airborne CS2 concentrations, with consecutive urine samples collected for 24-38 hours after termination of exposure. The U-TTCA, urine volume and creatinine level were measured for each sample. First-order and biphasic kinetics were determined using the curve-fit method, for the measurement series. For the first-order kinetics linearity fit, statistically significant correlation coefficients of 0.74-0.98 and 0.86-0.99 were derived for the volume- and creatinine-adjusted methods, respectively. For the biphasic kinetics approach, the overall correlation coefficients were 0.544-0.999 and 0.171-0.999 for the first and second phases of the creatinine-adjusted method, respectively. A post-shift U-TTCA of 3.0 mg/g Cr. equivalent, 40% below the current BEI setting at nearly PEL exposed level, was found. In conclusion, first-order kinetic response was confirmed for U-TTCA. Both volume- and creatinine-based urine adjustment are satisfactory for TTCA assessment as a biomarker of individual CS2 exposure although the correlation for creatinine-based measurement was modestly superior to the volume-based analogue. Based on the results of this study, we recommend a re-evaluation of the current biological exposure index of 5 mg/g creatinine at a CS2 exposure level of 10 ppm.
Inter- and intraindividual variation of endotoxin- and β(1 → 3)-glucan-induced cytokine responses in a whole blood assay
Authors: Wouters Inge M , Douwes Jeroen , Thorne Peter S , Heederik Dick , Doekes Gert
Published: April 2003

Inflammatory airway responses to bioaerosols and to their active compounds, such as endotoxin and β(1 → 3)- glucan, vary between individuals. These differences may be explained by variation in cytokine responsiveness, which can be assessed by in vitro stimulation tests with isolated blood leukocytes or lung macrophages. In large- scale population studies, ex vivo induced cytokine production may also be tested with a more simple `whole blood assay’ (WBA). However, applicability of a WBA to characterize a subject’s responsiveness depends largely on its reproducibility. This study was conducted to: 1) assess the within- and between-subject variability in cytokine production in a WBA after stimulation with endotoxin or β(1 → 3)-glucan; and 2) to determine under which conditions this test is most discriminating between subjects and most reproducible within subjects.

Blood was collected from 14 healthy volunteers, of whom 10 also participated on a second occasion. Each blood sample was used in two WBA tests; the first WBA was initiated two hours and the second 26 hours after venapuncture. The WBA test itself comprised overnight incubation with serial dilutions of endotoxin [lipopolysaccharide (LPS)] and curdlan (a β(1 → 3)-glucan), after which blood cell supernatant was collected. Interleukin(IL)-1, IL6, IL8 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) were determined in the supernatant.

In all individuals, a dose-dependent production of cytokines was observed for both LPS and curdlan. For all cytokines, variation between subjects was higher than within subjects, and this was most pronounced for IL1 and IL6. There was moderate-to-high correlation in the induced release of all four cytokines, and between cytokine release induced by LPS or curdlan. Optimal stimulation concentrations were 6.25 and 12.5 ng/mL for endotoxin and 12 500 and 25 000 ng/mL for curdlan. Cytokine production in WBA initiated 26 hours after venapuncture showed lower between-subject and larger within-subject variance, thus favoring an early initiation of the assay.

In conclusion, measuring endotoxin-or glucan-induced cytokine production in a WBA initiated within two hours after venapuncture appears to be an effective method to determine a person’s cytokine responsiveness, at least in healthy naive subjects. Toxicology and Industrial Health 2002; 18: 15-27.
Airborne exposure and soil levels associated with lead abatement of a steel tank
Authors: Lange John H
Published: April 2003

This study reports on airborne exposure levels and soil concentrations of lead in regard to abatement of a steel structure (water tank). The tank was de-leaded by abrasive sand blasting. The ball of the tank had a lead surface level that exceeded the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) definition of lead-based paint (LBP) (0.5% lead), but paint on stem and base was below this criterion. Personal and area airborne samples were collected during different activities of lead abatement of the tank. Summary results suggest during abrasive blasting of ball and stem/base personal exposure levels, as reported with arithmetic and geometric means, exceed the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) permissible exposure limit (50 g/m3). Highest personal exposure (occupational exposure) was associated with blasting of ball. Distribution of airborne and soil samples suggest non-normality and is best represented by a logarithmic form. Geometric standard deviations for air and soil lead support a non-normal distribution. Outlying values were found for personal and area air samples. Exposure levels associated with blasting stem/base section of tank support OSHA’s policy requiring air monitoring of work at levels below the criterion established by EPA in identifying LBP. Area samples were statistically lower than personal samples associated with blasting ball and stem/base of tank. Exposure data suggest that workers performing abatement on steel structures have elevated lead exposure from surface lead. Respirator protection requirements are discussed. Soil lead concentration was suggested to decrease as distance increased from tank. Soil lead is suggested to be a result of deposition from LBP on tank surface. Minimal efforts were required to reduce average lead soil levels below EPA’s upper acceptable criterion (1200 ppm Pb).
Liver death and regeneration in paracetamol toxicity
Authors: McGregor A H , More L J , Simpson K J , Harrison D J
Published: April 2003

Paracetamol overdose (POD) is a major clinical problem as the commonest cause of fulminant hepatic failure (FHF) in the UK and the USA. While the main loss of liver mass occurs following hepatocyte necrosis, hepatocyte apoptosis has also been reported to occur during paracetamol toxicity in murine liver. Hepatocyte apoptosis has not previously been identified in human liver and the significance of apoptosis in paracetamol toxicity is not known. In this study of paracetamol toxicity in human liver after POD, hepatocyte apoptosis was identified at time of liver transplantation or death and was associated with striking regenerative activity. The biological significance of apoptosis is unclear but the rates of apoptosis found (0.6%) could account for a significant loss of hepatic parenchyma. The stimulus for apoptosis is not known but it is unlikely to be induced directly by paracetamol since it is absent from serum at this time. The possibility that apoptosis may be induced by Kupffer cell activation with cytokine production is raised. Patients who develop FHF after POD have a poor prognosis, with few therapeutic options apart from liver transplantation; an understanding of the dynamics of liver regeneration and ongoing cell loss by apoptosis may allow the development of new therapies in these patients.
Investigation of biochemical and histopathological effects of Mentha piperita L. and Mentha spicata L. on kidney tissue in rats
Authors: Akdogan Mehmet , KWlWnc Ibrahim , Oncu Meral , Karaoz Erdal , Delibas NamWk
Published: April 2003

Peppermint plants have been used as a herbal medicine for many conditions, including loss of appetite, common cold, bronchitis, sinusitis, fever, nausea, vomiting and indigestion. This study is aimed at investigating the biochemical and histological effects of Mentha piperita L., growing in the Yenisar Bademli town of Isparta City, and Mentha spicata L., growing on the Anamas high plateau of Isparta City, on rat kidney tissue. Forty-eight male Wistar albino rats weighing 200 / 250 g were used for this study. Animals were divided into four experimental groups, each with 12 rats, as follows: control group (group I); 20 g/L M. piperita tea (group II); 20 g/L M. spicata tea (group III); 40 g/L M. spicata tea (group IV). The control group rats were given commercial drinking water (Hayat DANONESA water). The tea for the other groups was prepared daily and provided at all times to the rats during 30 days as drinking water. Plasma urea and creatinine levels were determined, and the levels of thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) and the activities of glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were studied in the homogenates of kidney tissue. The levels of plasma urea and creatinine were increased significantly (P B-0.0033) in groups III and IV when compared with group I. The activities of SOD and GSHPx were decreased significantly (P B-0.0033) in group IV when compared with group I. The activities of CAT were decreased significantly in groups III and IV (P B-0.033,P B-0.0033, respectively) when compared with group I. TBARS levels were increased significantly (P B-0.0033) in groups III and IV when compared with group I. In groups II, III and IV, hydropic degeneration of tubular epithelial cells, the epithelial cells with picnotic nuclei and eosinophilic cytoplasm, tubular dilatation and enlargements in Bowman capsules were observed histologically. However, in group II histopathological changes were more slight than in groups III and IV. In group IV, in addition to these changes, extremely hydropic degeneration of tubular epithelial cells, some atrophic tubules and glomerules, and focal mononuclear cell infiltrations in the kidney tissues of the rats were observed. In conclusion, the results indicate that M. piperita does not show nephrotoxicity but M. spicata presents markedly nephrotoxic changes in rats.
Combined efficacies of lipoic acid and meso-2,3-dimercaptosuccinic acid on lead-induced erythrocyte membrane lipid peroxidation and antioxidant status in rats
Authors: Sivaprasad R , Nagaraj M , Varalakshmi P
Published: April 2003

One of the most intriguing phenomenon observed during lead toxicity has been attributed to lead-induced oxidative stress. The combined effect of DL-a-lipoic acid (LA) and meso 2,3-dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA) on lead-induced alterations in selected parameters, which are indicators of oxidative stress in erythrocytes, have been studied. Lead acetate (Pb, 0.2%) was administered in drinking water for 5 weeks to induce toxicity. LA (25 mg/ kg body weight per day i.p.) and DMSA (20 mg/kg body weight per day i.p.) were administered individually and also in combination during week 6. Clinical evidence of toxic exposure was evident from the elevated blood lead levels (BPb) along with lowered levels of haemoglobin (Hb) and haematocrit (Ht). Lead-exposed animals showed enhanced membrane lipid peroxidation (LPO) in the erythrocytes. Damage to the erythrocyte membrane was evident from the decline in the activities of the trans-membrane enzymes, viz., Na1, K1 ATPase, Ca21 ATPase and Mg21 ATPase. Lead-exposed rats also suffered an onslaught on the antioxidant defence system witnessed by lowered activities of catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and reduced glutathione (GSH). Serum glutamic-oxoloacetic transaminase (SGOT) and serum glutamic-pyruvic transaminase (SGPT) were also elevated in lead-exposed rats. Treatment with either LA or DMSA reversed the lead-induced biochemical disturbances encountered by the erythrocytes, but combined treatment with LA and DMSA was very effective in mitigating all the parameters indicative of oxidative stress.
Structural and functional changes by Ciprofloxacin of rat submandibular gland
Authors: Abdollahi Mohammad , Minaiee Bagher , Yaaghoubi Amir A
Published: April 2003

In the present study, the effects of Ciprofloxacin (Cipro), a fluoroquinolone antibiotic, on rat submandibular gland structure and function were examined in an acute experiment. Cipro was administered intraperitoneally at various doses (20, 40 and 80 mg/kg). Pure submandibular saliva was collected intraorally by micropolyethylene tubes under anaesthesia using a dissecting microscope. After collection of saliva, submandibular glands were removed and weighed. Flow rate, amylase activity, total protein and electrolyte concentrations were measured in saliva. Concentrations of DNA and protein were measured in the gland. All doses of Cipro (20, 40, 80 mg/kg) reduced salivary flow rate. Concentrations of salivary total protein and calcium and gland DNA were reduced by all doses of Cipro. Treatment by Cipro (80 mg/kg) induced an increase in salivary sodium and potassium concentrations. Histopathological examination of glands revealed that Cipro at doses of 40 mg/kg and 80 mg/kg induces morphological changes in the glands including irregular shape of the cerous and mucous bobbles, lack of nucleus in some cells, damage of the cytoplasmic and cell walls and presence of oncocytes in secretory ducts. It is concluded that Cipro inhibits rat submandibular gland functions consistent with structural damages to the gland that might be observed as a side effect in humans. Properties of fluoroquinolones to alter intracellular cAMP and their ability to suppress DNA and protein synthesis of acinar cells might be possible reasons for observed changes.
Pre and postnatal exposure to endosulfan in Wistar rats
Authors: Dalsenter Paulo R , deAraújo Samanta L , da Silva de Assis Helena C , Andrade Anderson JM , Dallegrave Eliane
Published: April 2003

The possible reproductive adverse effects of the pesticide endosulfan on male offspring rats exposed in utero and during lactation were investigated. Dams were treated orally with 0, 0.5 or 1.5 mg of endosulfan/kg 21 days prior to mating, during the mating, pregnancy and lactation. Maternal and reproductive outcome data and male sexual development landmarks (testis descent and preputial separation) were assessed. Reproductive endpoints of the male offspring were examined at adulthood: sex organ weights, daily sperm production, spermatid number, sperm transit, sperm morphology and testosterone level. No signs of maternal toxicity were detected at the dose levels tested. Sexual development landmarks were also unaffected. Moreover, with the exception of a significant increase in the relative epididymis weight seen in the group treated with the lowest dose, we have not found any statistically significant adverse effect in the reproductive endpoints investigated at adulthood. The results of the present study indicate that pre and post-natal exposure to low doses of endosulfan (0.5 and 1.5 mg/kg) do not induce significant adverse effects in the reproductive system of male offspring Wistar rats at adulthood.
The Use of Naturally Clean Coals to Achieve Cleaner Coal Technology
Authors: Rees Dee P.
Published: April 2003

Cleaner coals have been used to achieve lower and more restrictive environmental regulations, primarily in older plant designed to use only more energy-intensive bituminous coals. So far, some of these naturally clean coals have been able to meet some of the most restrictive regulations without the addition of environmental equipment. In some places these coals are used where environmental equipment has been installed so that the solid and liquid wastes can be minimized. Nitrogen and sulphur oxides are/can be significantly lowered by using these naturally clean coals. The emissions of these pollutants per ton of carbon dioxide produced are also lower with the cleaner coals, compared to traditionally used bituminous coals. However, because of the lower thermal efficiency of the cleaner coals, the amount of carbon dioxide produced is slightly higher than typically used coals. This paper discusses some of these phenomena.
A Review of Technical Potential for Coal Production and Coal Degasification – A Conventional Source of Methane – In Nigeria
Authors: Olumide Adepo Jepson , Oludare Ayodele Charles , Olufemi Balogun
Published: April 2003

Coal, a solid fuel in its natural state has been identified as one of the world's major fossil fuels. It is a compact, stratified mass of mummified plant debris interspersed with smaller amounts of inorganic matter buried in sedimentary rocks. The use of coal as an energy source can be dated back to the prehistoric times. Methane is associated with many if not all coal seams, and is the dreaded “fire damp” responsible for many pit explosions. Coal mines are designed to vent as much methane as possible. It is present in the pores of coal under pressure, released during mining operations and can be extracted through vertical well bores. This paper highlights the fact that pipeline- quality methane can be extracted economically from coal seems before and during underground mining operations. The stimulation method involves hydraulic fracturing of the coal seam by using water, sand and, a gelling agent in a staged and alternating sand/and no sand sequence. The purpose is to create new fractures in the coal seam(s). The cleating of the coal helps to determine the flow characteristics of the coal formation and is vital in the initial productivity of a coal-methane well. The simple calculation of gas-in-place is achieved by multiplying the gas content of the coal by net coal thickness, the density, and the aerial extent of the drainage. The method is claimed to be suitable for use in Nigeria and potential sites for coal bed methane extraction in Nigeria are identified.
Synthesis, Chemical Modification, and Surface Assembly of Carbon Nanowires
Authors: Amma A. , Razavi B. , St. Angelo S.K. , Mayer T.S. , Mallouk T.E.
Published: April 2003

Carbon nanotubules and nanowires were synthesized by pyrolysis of polymer precursors in the pores of alumina membranes. The nanowires were released by dissolving the membranes, and were then made hydrophobic or hydrophilic by chemical surface derivatization. These nanowires could be placed into lithographically defined wells on surfaces by means of electrostatic interactions with monolayers at the bottoms of the wells.
Nanoparticle Arrays on Surfaces Fabricated Using Anodic Alumina Films as Templates
Authors: Sander M.S. , Tan L.‐S.
Published: April 2003

High density nanoparticle arrays on surfaces have been created using a template‐assisted approach. Templates were produced by evaporating aluminum onto substrates and subsequently anodizing the aluminum to produce nanoporous alumina films. The resulting templates have a narrow distribution of pore sizes tunable from ∼ 25 to ∼ 70 nm. To demonstrate the flexibility of this approach for producing nanoparticle arrays on various substrates, templates have been fabricated on silicon oxide, silicon, and gold surfaces. In all cases, a final chemical etching step yielded pores that extended completely through the template to the underlying substrate. Because the templates remain in intimate contact with the substrate throughout processing, they may be used with either vacuum‐based or wet chemical deposition methods to direct the deposition of nanoparticles onto the underlying substrates. Here we have produced gold nanodot arrays using evaporation and gold nanorod arrays by electrodeposition. In each case, the diameter and height of the nanoparticles can be controlled using the confining dimensions of the templates, resulting in high density (∼ 1010 cm–2) arrays of nanoparticles over large areas (> 1 cm2).
Laser‐Induced Direct Lithography for Patterning of Carbon with sp3 and sp2 Hybridization
Authors: Zbaida D. , Popovitz‐Biro R. , Lachish‐Zalait A. , Klein E. , Wachtel E. , Prior Y. , Elbaum M.
Published: April 2003

A new method of laser‐induced lithography for direct writing of carbon on a glass surface is described, in which deposition occurs from a transparent precursor solution. At the glass–solution interface where the laser spot is focused, a micro‐explosion process takes place, leading to the deposition of pure carbon on the glass surface. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) analysis shows two distinct co‐existing phases. The dominant one shows a mottled morphology with diffraction typical of cubic (sp3) diamond. The other region shows an ordered array of graphene sheets with diffraction pattern typical of sp2‐bonded carbon. The sp3 crystallites range in size from 9 to 30 Å and are scattered randomly throughout the sample. A UV Raman spectrum shows a broad band at the location of the expected diamond peak, together with a peak corresponding to the graphite region. We conclude that the patterned carbon is composed of a mixture of nanocrystalline sp3 and sp2 carbon forms.
Communication about carrier testing within hemophilia A families
Authors: Sorenson James R. , Jennings‐Grant Tracey , Newman Jamie
Published: April 2003

Genetic diseases are family diseases. Although there is considerable research on how individuals decide to have genetic testing and their individual reactions to testing, there is limited research on the familial context of genetic testing. In the present study, we focus on three aspects of the family context of genetic testing for hemophilia A carrier status among women at risk to be carriers. We look at the extent to which there was discussion of carrier testing for hemophilia before we offered DNA‐based carrier testing to these at‐risk women; with which family members these tested women communicated the results of their carrier testing; and concerns these women had about communicating their carrier test results with relatives, including their children. Data suggest that members of families with hemophilia discussed carrier testing prior to study participation, that the communication of testing information within families was selective, not universal, largely following gender lines for this X‐linked disorder, and that there was limited concern about communicating carrier status information to children and other relatives. These data reinforce observations that families are social systems, and within these systems information is selectively communicated. A more complete understanding of how families communicate genetic test information will enable providers to develop more effective means of assisting individuals in handling the familial communication aspects of genetic testing. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Synthetic absorbent for dyestuffs based on gamma crosslinked poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA)
Authors: Ibrahim Sayeda M.
Published: April 2003

This work reports on the characterization and uses of gamma radiation‐crosslinked poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) films as absorbents for different classes of dyestuffs normally released from textile factors. Dyestuffs were selected from different producers. These dyestuffs were Remacryl Blue (basic dye), Remazol Golden Orange (reactive dye), Solar Orange (direct dye), and Sandolan (acid dye). The percentage dye sorption by PVA was determined by spectroscopic analysis and color‐strength measurements of the PVA films after absorbing the different dyestuffs. The results showed that the concentration of dimethylbisacrylamide as a crosslinking agent has a great effect on the gel fraction and percentage swelling in water of the PVA polymer. In general, crosslinked PVA showed a low tendency to absorb the different dyestuffs under investigation at room temperature. This tendency was shown to increase with an increasing temperature of the dye solution from room temperature to 70°C. Meanwhile, the highest percentage of dye sorption was found in the case of the basic dye and the lowest one in the case of the reactive dye depending on the active groups on the dyes. Moreover, the percentage dye sorption by PVA was slightly higher in the acid medium rather than in the alkaline one. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 89: 349–354, 2003
Melt rheological behavior of intimately mixed short sisal–glass hybrid fiber‐reinforced low‐density polyethylene composites. II. Chemical modification
Authors: Kalaprasad G. , Thomas S.
Published: April 2003

The effect of chemical modification of both fiber and matrix on melt rheological behavior of intimately mixed short sisal–glass hybrid fiber‐reinforced low‐density polyethylene composites was studied with an Instron capillary rheometer. The variations of melt viscosity with different shear rate and shear stress values for different temperatures were studied. A temperature range of 130 to 150°C and shear rates of 16.4 to 5468 s−1 were chosen for the analysis. Chemical modifications with stearic acid, maleic anhydride, silane, and peroxides were tested for their ability to improve the interaction between the matrix and fiber. The viscosity of the hybrid composites increases with every chemical modification. In the case of peroxide‐treated composites, the increase can be attributed to the peroxide‐induced grafting of the polyethylene matrix to the fiber surface and to the crosslinking of the polyethylene matrix. These phenomena are both activated by temperature, whereas temperature causes a reverse effect for all other chemical modifications. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 89: 443–450, 2003
Direct miniemulsification of Kraton rubber/styrene solution. I. Effect of Manton–Gaulin homogenizer, sonifier, and membrane filtration
Authors: Jeong Pilmoon , Dimonie Victoria L. , Daniels Eric S. , El‐Aasser Mohamed S.
Published: April 2003

A direct miniemulsification process was utilized to prepare an artificial latex from a Kraton® D1102 thermoplastic elastomer. The Kraton rubber was dissolved in a styrene monomer and emulsified in an aqueous surfactant solution in the presence of a costabilizer using a sonifier, a Manton–Gaulin homogenizer, and membrane filtration. Each miniemulsion droplet contained 20 wt % Kraton rubber in styrene, and, thus, the Kraton rubber particle size and size distribution can be used to estimate the droplet size and size distribution of the miniemulsion. It was found that Kraton rubber particles obtained using the Manton–Gaulin homogenizer had an extremely broad size distribution ranging from 20 nm to 2 μm. The use of a cetyl alcohol costabilizer produced Kraton rubber particles with a narrower size distribution by lowering the interfacial tension between the oil and aqueous phases, compared to the use of hexadecane as a costabilizer. The broad size distribution of the Kraton rubber particles could be narrowed by employing a membrane‐filtration technique. However, small miniemulsion droplets remained undisturbed in the miniemulsion since they easily passed through the pores of the filter. These small droplets resulted from the sonification process conducted prior to the use of the membrane‐filtration process. The Kraton rubber particle‐size distribution became narrow with an increase in the sonifier duty cycle due to the viscoelastic behavior of the oil phase. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 89: 451–464, 2003
Preparation of poly(L‐lactide) film having high elastic recovery
Authors: Ogata Nobuo , Sasayama Hideki , Nakane Koji , Ogihara Takashi
Published: April 2003

Triacetin (TAC) is known as a lubricant of poly(L‐lactide) (PLLA), and it is used to improve the mechanical properties of PLLA. However, the compatibility of TAC with PLLA and the morphological changes induced by the addition of TAC to PLLA have not been clarified. This study investigates the effects of the addition of TAC on the morphological changes and physical properties of PLLA. We prepared the PLLA films containing a given amount of TAC by solvent‐cast blending with chloroform under a low temperature. From the investigation of the mechanical properties of the blends, it is found that the glass‐transition temperature of PLLA is remarkably decreased with an increasing amount of TAC, the blend films exhibit high elastic recovery, and the degree of the recovery increases linearly with the amount of TAC. The morphological changes exhibiting high elastic recovery are discussed. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 89: 474–480, 2003
Regeneration of carbon black from waste automobile tires
Authors: Bhadra Sambhu , De P. P. , Mondal Nilkanta , Mukhapadhyaya R. , Das Gupta Saikat
Published: April 2003

Carbon black, an important ingredient in tires, was regenerated from waste automobile tires. Waste tires were cut to separate the tread cap, tread base, side wall, and inner ply and were crushed and pyrolyzed in a muffle furnace at 430°C for 3 h. This black was again heated at 430°C for 1.5 h to increase the surface area to get regenerated black (RB). To find out the effect of heating during pyrolysis, the original black was also heated at 430°C for 1.5 h to get heat‐treated black (HTB). The regenerated black (RB) was characterized by different methods. It was mixed in different formulations, with few required properties of the final mixed compounds measured, and then cured maintaining technical cure time and temperature; physicomechanical properties of the cured specimen were measured and compared with that of the virgin black (VB) and the heat‐treated black (HTB). From all these results it was concluded that regenerated black has a higher surface area, higher elongation at break, and higher heat buildup but a lower cure rate, a lower modulus, and a comparable state of cure, dispersion, hardness, tensile strength, and tear strength compared with those of the virgin black. It was also found that for the regenerated black, the structure and agglomerate size were slightly changed. Some polar acidic groups were incorporated into the carbon black during pyrolysis or during heat treatment. Regenerated black had better aging properties than did the virgin or heat‐treated black. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 89: 465–473, 2003
Syntheses and characterization of maleic anhydride–styrene–allyl propionate terpolymer ester derivatives
Authors: Boztuğ Ali , Basan Satılmış
Published: April 2003

In this study, maleic anhydride (MA)–styrene (St)–allyl propionate (AP) was produced with MA, St, and AP. It was then reacted with n‐propyl alcohol (Pr), n‐butyl alcohol (Bu), n‐pentyl alcohol (Pn), and benzyl alcohol (Bz) under certain conditions to produce ester derivatives of the terpolymer. These ester derivatives were designated alkyl maleate terpolymers (PrMA–St–AP, BuMA–St–AP, PnMA–St–AP, and BzMA–St–AP). The polymers were investigated by solubility and viscosity experiments, with the number of ester groups in the polymers determined by chemical analysis. They were also characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, with thermomechanical properties measured via stress–strain curves. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 89: 296–299, 2003
Diffusion process of amino acids in polymer supports for solid‐phase peptide synthesis as studied by pulsed‐field‐gradient spin‐echo proton nuclear magnetic resonance
Authors: Yamane Yuji , Matsui Masanori , Kimura Hideaki , Kuroki Shigeki , Ando Isao
Published: April 2003

The diffusion coefficient (D) values oftert‐butyloxycarbonyl‐glycine,tert‐butyloxycarbonyl‐L‐tryptophan,tert‐butyloxycarbonyl‐L‐phenylalanine (Boc‐Phe), and 9‐fluorenylmethoxycarbonyl‐L‐phenylalanine in Merrifield polystyrene (MPS) gels, poly(ethylene glycol)‐grafted polystyrene (PEG–PS) gels, and crosslinked ethoxylate acrylate (CLEAR) gels, as used in solid‐phase peptide synthesis, were determined by the pulsed‐field‐gradient spin‐echo1H‐NMR method. From these experimental results, it was found that the amino acids in MPS gels, PEG–PS gels, and CLEAR gels withN,N‐dimethylformamide‐d7(DMF‐d7) as a solvent had multidiffusion components within a measurement timescale of 10 ms. TheDvalue of Boc‐Phe in polystyrene gels (1% divinylbenzene crosslinked) with tetrahydrofuran‐d8was much larger than that in the same gels with DMF‐d7. Furthermore, the required time in which an amino acid transferred from a reactive site to a reactive site was estimated, within which the solvents and amino acids in the polymer supports diffused in the swollen beads.© 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 89: 413–421, 2003
The characteristic of epoxy resin that makes decomposition easy by blending thermoplastic polymer
Authors: Mimura K. , Ito H.
Published: April 2003

To recover and reuse valuable metal materials from waste at the time of abandonment, a thermosetting resin (epoxy resin) easily disassembled with solvent treatment was developed by blending a thermoplastic polymer (polyethersulfone, PES) to the thermosetting resin. The influence of the morphology of the cured resin upon the decomposition nature by the organic solvent was investigated. In the unmodified resin and the modified resin with homogeneous morphology, the cured resins did not decompose easily when they were dipped in dimethylformamide (DMF) at 23°C. It took 13 days or more to recover the metal materials molded into the cured resin. On the other hand, in the modified resin with continuous‐phase morphology of the thermoplastic polymer, decomposition proceeded rapidly. The resin portion was decomposed completely in only 2 days and the molded metal materials were recoverable. Furthermore, the material with a continuous variation in the phase morphology of the cured resin, that is, continuously variable morphology material, was created by attaching a slope to the molding temperature of a sample. A place to decompose can be selected by using this material, which allows for easy recovery of molded valuables at the time of abandonment. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 89: 527–534, 000
Application of the method of the experimental design to the study of a processing of unshrinkableness of wool fibers
Authors: Choisnard L. , Bigan M. , Blondeau D. , Dhulster P. , Leman B. , Guillochon D.
Published: April 2003

The objective of this study was to optimize the character of the unshrinkableness of wool fibers. A study of the processing of fibers of wool by an oxidative processing by performic acid was carried out by a complete factorial design to determine the most influential parameters of this study and then to optimize this process by the method of simplex. In parallel, a new ozone treatment was applied and a central composite design adapted to this protocol made it possible to identify the most influential parameters. This last type of processing has the advantage of being less polluting. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 89: 535–547, 2003
Crosslinking and decomposition reactions of epoxide functionalized polynorbornene. Part I. FTIR and thermogravimetric analysis
Authors: Chiniwalla Punit , Bai Yiqun , Elce Edmund , Shick Robert , McDougall W. Christopher , Allen Sue Ann Bidstrup , Kohl Paul A.
Published: April 2003

The miniaturization of microelectronic devices has created a demand for new low‐dielectric‐constant materials to be used as insulating layers between metal interconnects. In this study, a functionalized polynorbornene consisting of a copolymer of decyl norbornene and epoxide norbornene has been investigated as a low‐temperature curing dielectric. Polynorbornenes possess properties that are attractive for microelectronics packaging; however, films of these polymers must be crosslinked in order to obtain the solvent resistance and low solvent swelling necessary for multilayer applications. Crosslinking of these materials was achieved by acid‐catalyzed cationic crosslinking of epoxide side groups. The reactions that occurred during higher temperature curing of epoxy functionalized norbornene films were studied using Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and thermogravimetric analysis. Epoxide crosslinking and epoxide decomposition reactions were identified and studied as a function of temperature and time. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 89: 568–577, 2003
Crystalline phase in the ultrahigh molecular‐weight polyethylene gel solution and xerogel
Authors: Pakhomov P. M. , Khizhnyak Svetlana , Reuter H. , Tshmel A.
Published: April 2003

The transverse and longitudinal sizes of crystallites in thermoreversible polyethylene gels and xerogels were measured using wide‐angle X‐ray scattering and a low‐frequency Raman spectroscopy, and were found to be 10–40 and 4–5 nm, respectively. The experimental data evidence the imperfection of primary crystallites in both dimensions. The gel‐to‐solid transition results in gaining the direct interaction between crystalline entities with increasing the cracking, on the one hand, and forming the clusters of stacked crystalline platelets linked with regular molecular rods, on the other hand. These contact interaction leads, in addition, to the coiling of a great part of regular sequences that emanate from the crystallite cores to the amorphous region. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 89: 373–378, 2003