bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lysosomal Membrane Permeabilization Induces Cell Death in a Mitochondrion-dependent Fashion
Authors: Boya Patricia , Andreau Karine , Poncet Delphine , Zamzami Naoufal , Perfettini Jean-Luc , Metivier Didier , Ojcius David M. , Jäättelä Marja , Kroemer Guido
Published: May 2003

A number of diseases are due to lysosomal destabilization, which results in damaging cell loss. To investigate the mechanisms of lysosomal cell death, we characterized the cytotoxic action of two widely used quinolone antibiotics: ciprofloxacin (CPX) or norfloxacin (NFX). CPX or NFX plus UV light (NFX*) induce lysosomal membrane permeabilization (LMP), as detected by the release of cathepsins from lysosomes. Inhibition of the lysosomal accumulation of CPX or NFX suppresses their capacity to induce LMP and to kill cells. CPX- or NFX-triggered LMP results in caspase-independent cell death, with hallmarks of apoptosis such as chromatin condensation and phosphatidylserine exposure on the plasma membrane. LMP triggers mitochondrial membrane permeabilization (MMP), as detected by the release of cytochrome c. Both CPX and NFX* cause Bax and Bak to adopt their apoptotic conformation and to insert into mitochondrial membranes. Bax−/− Bak−/− double knockout cells fail to undergo MMP and cell death in response to CPX- or NFX-induced LMP. The single knockout of Bax or Bak (but not Bid) or the transfection-enforced expression of mitochondrion-targeted (but not endoplasmic reticulum–targeted) Bcl-2 conferred protection against CPX (but not NFX*)-induced MMP and death. Altogether, our data indicate that mitochondria are indispensable for cell death initiated by lysosomal destabilization.
NKG2D-mediated Natural Killer Cell Protection Against Cytomegalovirus Is Impaired by Viral gp40 Modulation of Retinoic Acid Early Inducible 1 Gene Molecules
Authors: Lodoen Melissa , Ogasawara Kouetsu , Hamerman Jessica A. , Arase Hisashi , Houchins Jeffrey P. , Mocarski Edward S. , Lanier Lewis L.
Published: May 2003

Natural killer (NK) cells play a critical role in the innate immune response against cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections. Although CMV encodes several gene products committed to evasion of adaptive immunity, viral modulation of NK cell activity is only beginning to be appreciated. A previous study demonstrated that the mouse CMV m152-encoded gp40 glycoprotein diminished expression of ligands for the activating NK cell receptor NKG2D on the surface of virus-infected cells. Here we have defined the precise ligands that are affected and have directly implicated NKG2D in immune responses to CMV infection in vitro and in vivo. Murine CMV (MCMV) infection potently induced transcription of all five known retinoic acid early inducible 1 (RAE-1) genes (RAE-1α, RAE-1β, RAE-1δ, RAE-1ε, and RAE-1γ), but not H-60. gp40 specifically down-regulated the cell surface expression of all RAE-1 proteins, but not H-60, and diminished NK cell interferon γ production against CMV-infected cells. Consistent with previous findings, a m152 deletion mutant virus (Δm152) was less virulent in vivo than the wild-type Smith strain of MCMV. Treatment of BALB/c mice with a neutralizing anti-NKG2D antibody before infection increased titers of Δm152 virus in the spleen and liver to levels seen with wild-type virus. These experiments demonstrate that gp40 impairs NK cell recognition of virus-infected cells through disrupting the RAE-1–NKG2D interaction.
By Altering Ocular Immune Privilege, Bone Marrow–derived Cells Pathogenically Contribute to DBA/2J Pigmentary Glaucoma
Authors: Mo Jun-Song , Anderson Michael G. , Gregory Meredith , Smith Richard S. , Savinova Olga V. , Serreze David V. , Ksander Bruce R. , Streilein J. Wayne , John Simon W.M.
Published: May 2003

Pigment dispersion syndrome causes iris pigment release and often progresses to elevated intraocular pressure and pigmentary glaucoma (PG). Because melanin pigment can have adjuvant like properties and because the Gpnmb gene, which contributes to pigment dispersion in DBA/2J (D2) mice, is expressed in dendritic cells, we tested the hypothesis that ocular immune abnormalities participate in PG phenotypes. Strikingly, we show that D2 eyes exhibit defects of the normally immunosuppressive ocular microenvironment including inability of aqueous humor to inhibit T cell activation, failure to support anterior chamber (AC)-associated immune deviation, and loss of ocular immune privilege. Histologic analysis demonstrates infiltration of inflammatory leukocytes into the AC and their accumulation within the iris, whereas clinical indications of inflammation are typically very mild to undetectable. Importantly, some of these abnormalities precede clinical indications of pigment dispersal, suggesting an early role in disease etiology. Using bone marrow chimeras, we show that lymphohematopoietic cell lineages largely dictate the progression of pigment dispersion, the ability of the eye to support induction of AC-associated immune deviation, and the integrity of the blood/ocular barrier. These results suggest previously unsuspected roles for bone marrow–derived cells and ocular immune privilege in the pathogenesis of PG.
Competition Between Two MHC Binding Registers in a Single Peptide Processed from Myelin Basic Protein Influences Tolerance and Susceptibility to Autoimmunity
Authors: Seamons Audrey , Sutton Jennifer , Bai Dina , Baird Emily , Bonn Nena , Kafsack Björn F.C. , Shabanowitz Jeffrey , Hunt Donald F. , Beeson Craig , Goverman Joan
Published: May 2003

Experimental allergic encephalomyelitis (EAE) is an animal model for multiple sclerosis induced by stimulating myelin basic protein (MBP)-specific T cells. The MBP-specific repertoire in B10.PL mice is shaped by tolerance mechanisms that eliminate MBP121–150–specific T cells. In contrast, MBPAc1–11–specific T cells escape tolerance and constitute the encephalitogenic repertoire. To determine if this differential tolerance is caused by differences in the abundance of MBP epitopes generated by processing, MBP peptides were eluted from I-Au complexes and analyzed by mass spectrometry. Peptides were identified from both the NH2-terminal and MBP121–150 regions. Unexpectedly, MBPAc1–18 and Ac1–17, which contain the MBPAc1–11 epitope, were much more abundant than MBP121–150 peptides. The results demonstrate that competition between two I-Au binding registers, a low affinity register defined by MBPAc1–11 and a high affinity register defined by MBP5–16, prevents most of the NH2-terminal naturally processed peptides from binding in the MBPAc1–11 register. The small fraction of MBPAc1–18 bound in the MBPAc1–11 register is not sufficient to induce tolerance but provides a ligand for MBPAc1–11–specific T cells during disease. These results provide a basis for both the lack of tolerance to MBPAc1–11 and the ability of this epitope to become a target during autoimmunity.
Typology of online shoppers
Authors: Keng Kau Ah , Tang Yingchan E. , Ghose Sanjoy
Published: May 2003

This article aims to examine the online buying behavior among a group of Internet users. Based on a sample of over 3,700 Internet users, this study explores their information‐seeking patterns as well as their motivations and concerns for online shopping. Factor analysis and cluster analysis were used to classify the respondents into six types of online shoppers. Coupled with their demographic information and actual buying behavior, it was possible to constitute a distinct profile for each of the segments. Discriminant analysis was also conducted to seek out the important attitudinal variables that differentiated the various clusters of online shoppers. The implications of such classification are also discussed.
Inhibiting Imitative Terrorism through Memetic Engineering
Authors: Pech Richard J.
Published: May 2003

Some acts of terrorism are the consequence of an individual or group's imitation of an act of terrorism, which has previously been publicised through the media. Media reports of terrorism appear to be rising, feeding a potentially increasing number of imitative behaviours. Such reports may provide individuals who are frustrated, angry, suicidal and/or suffering from personality disorders with the means and the motivation to copy what is perceived to be a method of gaining attention or what is perceived to be an acceptable method of venting anger and frustration. Through memetic engineering, the interpretations that are placed upon acts of violence can be manipulated to appear undesirable to even the most unbalanced minds, which it is argued, should inhibit the spread of imitative terrorism.
Book Reviews
Authors: Charles Michael T.
Published: May 2003

Governance & Public Security, Alasdair Roberts (Ed.), Campbell Public Affairs Institute, The PricewaterhouseCoopers Endowment for The Business of Government, New York (2002), 150 pp.
Book Reviews
Authors: Lodge Martin
Published: May 2003

The Crash That Stopped Britain, Ian Jack, Granta Press, London (2001), 94 pp.
Book Reviews
Authors: Benini Aldo
Published: May 2003

Economics of Emergency Relief Management in Developing Countries: With Case Studies on Food Relief in Angola and Mozambique, Torsten Feldbrügge, Peter Lang, Frankfurt am Main (2001), 199 pp.
Book Reviews
Authors: Hart Paul ‘T
Published: May 2003

Heatwave: A Social Autopsy of Disaster in Chicago, Eric Klinenberg, University of Chicago Press, Chicago, IL (2002), 320 pp.
Why the Georgist Movement Has Not Succeeded:
Authors: Sullivan Mark A.
Published: May 2003

ABSTRACT. The intellectual/reform movement founded by Henry George has not succeeded, but it has survived. George both accepted and challenged prevailing 19th‐century expectations (within Western culture) of unlimited economic and social progress. The failure of later Georgists to adapt the substance and style of George's analysis in response to modern and post‐modern issues may have been one factor contributing to the decline of Georgism during the 20th century. The effective end of the 19th century, symbolized by the sinking of the Titanic and realized by World War I, left unresolved to this day the socioeconomic problems of monopoly, privilege, and the commodification/exploitation of both labor and land—problems now associated with globalization. A revitalized Georgism could and would need to address these 21st‐century realities.
Getting Results—Or Not
Authors: Harriss Lowell
Published: May 2003

ABSTRACT. I support ideas based on Henry George's writings but not as utopian. Reducing taxes that impede capital formation actually helps communities prosper. Furthermore, adopting a “two‐rate” property tax has always seemed sensible. The academic's role is to point to achievable benefits. Professor Samuels's paper helps us understand how the plurality of aspects and concerns of Georgism has diffused the attention of the Georgists away from a more modest but substantial point.
THERMAL ENTANGLEMENT IN SPIN-DIMER V4+ WITH A MAGNETIC FIELD
Authors: ZHANG GUO-FENG , LIANG JIU-QING
Published: May 2003

By means of the measure of entanglement called "concurrence" we study the entanglement in Heisenberg dimer single molecular magnets V4+ with a strong magnetic field and find that thermal entanglement exits for both ferromagnetic (FM) and antiferromagnetic (AFM) cases. In FM case entanglement vanishes for anisotropic parameter λ = 0 while in AFM case, entanglement exits in the whole region of anisotropic parameter 0 ≤ λ ≤ 1. Entanglement variations with anisotropic parameter λ, magnetic field B and temperature T are evaluated. We find a critical magnetic field at which the concurrence changes sharply from zero to maximum entanglement.
EXPANSIONS OF ALGEBRAICALLY CLOSED FIELDS II: FUNCTIONS OF SEVERAL VARIABLES
Authors: PETERZIL YA'ACOV , STARCHENKO SERGEI
Published: May 2003

Let ℛ be an o-minimal expansion of a real closed field R. We continue here the investigation we began in [11] of differentiability with respect to the algebraically closed field [Formula: see text]. We develop the basic theory of such K-differentiability for definable functions of several variables, proving theorems on removable singularities as well as analogues of the Weierstrass preparation and division theorems for definable functions. We consider also definably meromorphic functions and prove that every definable function which is meromorphic on Knis necessarily a rational function. We finally discuss definable analogues of complex analytic manifolds, with possible connections to the model theoretic work on compact complex manifolds, and present two examples of "nonstandard manifolds" in our setting.
Neurovascular Dissociation With Paradoxical Forearm Vasodilation During Systemic Tyramine Administration
Authors: Jacob Giris , Costa Fernando , Vincent Simi , Robertson David , Biaggioni Italo
Published: May 2003

Background—

Despite the widespread use of tyramine as a pharmacological tool to assess the effects of norepinephrine release from sympathetic nerve terminals, its vascular effects are not adequately characterized. In particular, previous results indicate that intravenous tyramine produces little if any systemic vasoconstriction, suggesting that tyramine does not cause significant norepinephrine release from sympathetic nerves innervating peripheral vascular beds. To test this hypothesis, we determined the effects of intravenous tyramine on local forearm norepinephrine spillover and vascular resistance.

Methods and Results—

Seven healthy subjects were studied with systemic and local forearm norepinephrine spillover and forearm blood flow at baseline, during systemic tyramine infusion, and after sympathetic stimulation induced by the cold pressor test. Tyramine infusion caused a significant increase in systemic and forearm norepinephrine spillover. The amount of norepinephrine released into the forearm by tyramine was similar to that caused by cold pressor stimulation, 0.15±0.05 versus 0.18±0.05 ng · dL
−1
· min
−1
. As expected, forearm vascular resistance increased during the cold pressor test, but tyramine produced forearm vasodilation (4.5±1 versus −5±1 mm Hg · dL
−1
· min
−1
,
P
<0.03) despite the increase in local norepinephrine spillover. In 6 additional subjects, plasma dopamine increased significantly during tyramine administration, from 11±3 to 662±105 pg/mL.

Conclusions—

Thus, systemic tyramine infusion evokes a significant increase in peripheral norepinephrine spillover, and this, paradoxically, is associated with local vasodilatation rather than vasoconstriction.
Simvastatin Normalizes Autonomic Neural Control in Experimental Heart Failure
Authors: Pliquett Rainer U. , Cornish Kurtis G. , Peuler Jacob D. , Zucker Irving H.
Published: May 2003

Background—

HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors (statins) have been shown to beneficially affect outcomes in chronic heart failure (CHF). We hypothesized that statins exert effects on autonomic function, as assessed by plasma norepinephrine levels, direct recordings of renal sympathetic nerve activity (RSNA), and baroreflex function.

Methods and Results—

Normolipidemic CHF rabbits were treated with simvastatin or vehicle. CHF was induced by continuous ventricular pacing at 320 to 340 bpm for 3 weeks. Two to 3 days after instrumentation of the rabbits with renal nerve electrodes and arterial and venous catheters, blood samples and RSNA recordings were obtained in the conscious state. Baroreflex function was assessed after administration of sodium nitroprusside and phenylephrine. Mean baseline RSNA (±SEM) in normal rabbits was 19.3±3.8%; in CHF rabbits, 39.4±2.9% (
P
<0.05); in CHF rabbits on low-dose (0.3 mg · kg
−1
· d
−1
) simvastatin, 39.8±8.3% (
P
<0.05); and in CHF rabbits on high-dose simvastatin (3 mg · kg
−1
· d
−1
), 21.1±4.5% (
P
=NS). Similar data were observed for plasma norepinephrine. In CHF rabbits treated with 3 mg · kg
−1
· d
−1
simvastatin, baroreflex regulation of heart rate to transient hypotension with sodium nitroprusside was normalized by 66% compared with CHF controls.

Conclusions—

These are the first data showing that non–lipid-lowering statin effects include a normalization of sympathetic outflow and reflex regulation in CHF. The precise neural and cellular pathways involved in these responses need further clarification. This finding may have important implications for the treatment of CHF and progression of the disease process.
Elevated Production of Interleukin-6 Is Associated With a Lower Incidence of Disease-Related Ischemic Events in Patients With Giant-Cell Arteritis
Authors: Hernández-Rodríguez José , Segarra Marta , Vilardell Carme , Sánchez Montse , García-Martínez Ana , Esteban María-José , Grau Josep M. , Urbano-Márquez Alvaro , Colomer Dolors , Kleinman Hynda K. , Cid Maria C.
Published: May 2003

Background—

Patients with giant-cell arteritis (GCA) who develop a strong acute-phase response are at low risk of disease-related ischemic events.

Methods and Results—

To assess the potential protective role of proinflammatory cytokines in the development of ischemic events in GCA, we measured tissue expression (66 individuals) and/or circulating levels (80 individuals) of interleukin (IL)-1β, tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and IL-6 in patients with biopsy-proven GCA. Tissue expression was determined by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemistry. Circulating cytokines were determined by enzyme-linked immunoassay. We found that patients with disease-related ischemic events had lower IL-6 mRNA levels (5.9±2.1 versus 27.6±7.8 relative units,
P
=0.013), lower IL-6 immunohistochemical expression scores (1.5±0.9 versus 2.7±1,
P
=0.001), and lower circulating levels of IL-6 (13.6±2.1 versus 24±2.4 pg/mL,
P
=0.002) than patients without ischemic complications. No significant differences were found for either IL-1β or TNF-α. We subsequently investigated direct effects of IL-6 on vessel wall components. We found that IL-6 stimulates endothelial cell proliferation and differentiation into capillary-like structures and induces full angiogenic activity in both ex vivo (aortic ring) and in vivo (chick chorioallantoic membrane) assays.

Conclusions—

GCA patients with ischemic complications have lower tissue expression and circulating levels of IL-6 than patients with no ischemic events. IL-6 has relevant direct effects on vascular wall components that might be protective: IL-6 activates a functional program related to angiogenesis that may compensate for ischemia in patients with GCA.
Promoter (4G/5G) Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor-1 Genotype and Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor-1 Levels in Blacks, Hispanics, and Non-Hispanic Whites
Authors: Festa Andreas , D’Agostino Ralph , Rich Steven S. , Jenny Nancy S. , Tracy Russell P. , Haffner Steven M.
Published: May 2003

Background—

The 4G/5G polymorphism of the plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) gene has been related to cardiovascular disease.

Methods and Results—

Insulin resistance was measured with a frequently sampled intravenous glucose tolerance test in the Insulin Resistance Atherosclerosis Study (IRAS), and PAI-1 4G/5G promoter genotype was established by allele-specific polymerase chain reaction amplification of genomic DNA. There were 287 subjects with the 4G/4G genotype (18.4%), 691 heterozygote subjects (44.2%), and 586 carriers of the 5G/5G genotype (37.5%). The genotype distribution was different across the 3 ethnic groups (
P
=0.001). PAI-1 levels were lower in blacks than in non-Hispanic whites and Hispanics and lower in non-Hispanic whites than in Hispanics (all
P
=0.0001). Subjects homozygous for the 4G allele had the highest plasma PAI-1, heterozygote subjects were intermediate, and 5G homozygotes had the lowest levels of PAI-1. These patterns remained unaffected by adjustments for age, gender, clinical center, glucose tolerance status, body mass index, waist, triglycerides, and insulin resistance. Multiple linear regression analyses showed that the 4G/5G genotype explained very little of the variation in PAI-1 levels (0.63% in non-Hispanic whites, 0.99% in Hispanics, and 2.37% in blacks), and interaction analyses revealed no significant differences in the relation of circulating PAI-1 levels to the 4G/5G genotype by ethnicity (
P
=0.4).

Conclusions—

We have shown ethnic differences in the PAI-1 4G/5G polymorphism along with corresponding differences in circulating PAI-1 levels. The association of the genotype with PAI-1 levels was seen consistently among all 3 ethnic groups and was unaffected by metabolic covariates, including insulin resistance.
Effect of Ezetimibe Coadministered With Atorvastatin in 628 Patients With Primary Hypercholesterolemia
Authors: Ballantyne Christie M. , Houri John , Notarbartolo Alberto , Melani Lorenzo , Lipka Leslie J. , Suresh Ramachandran , Sun Steven , LeBeaut Alexandre P. , Sager Philip T. , Veltri Enrico P.
Published: May 2003

Background—

Despite the established efficacy of statins, many patients do not achieve recommended LDL cholesterol (LDL-C) goals. Contributing factors may be inadequate dosing, increased risk for adverse effects with high-dose monotherapy, and increased potential for intolerance and adverse effects with combinations of available agents.

Methods and Results—

In a double-blind study, 628 patients with baseline LDL-C 145 to 250 mg/dL and triglycerides ≤350 mg/dL were randomly assigned to receive 1 of the following for 12 weeks: ezetimibe (10 mg/d); atorvastatin (10, 20, 40, or 80 mg/d); ezetimibe (10 mg) plus atorvastatin (10, 20, 40, or 80 mg/d); or placebo. The primary efficacy end point was percentage reduction in LDL-C for pooled ezetimibe plus atorvastatin versus pooled atorvastatin treatment groups. Ezetimibe plus atorvastatin significantly improved LDL-C, HDL cholesterol (HDL-C), triglycerides, total cholesterol:HDL-C, and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) compared with atorvastatin alone (
P
<0.01). Coadministration of ezetimibe provided a significant additional 12% LDL-C reduction, 3% HDL-C increase, 8% triglyceride reduction, and 10% hs-CRP reduction versus atorvastatin alone. Ezetimibe plus atorvastatin provided LDL-C reductions of 50% to 60%, triglyceride reductions of 30% to 40%, and HDL-C increases of 5% to 9%, depending on atorvastatin dose. LDL-C reductions with ezetimibe plus 10 mg atorvastatin (50%) and 80 mg atorvastatin alone (51%) were similar.

Conclusions—

Ezetimibe plus atorvastatin was well tolerated, with a safety profile similar to atorvastatin alone and to placebo. When coadministered with atorvastatin, ezetimibe provided significant incremental reductions in LDL-C and triglycerides and increases in HDL-C. Coadministration of ezetimibe and atorvastatin offers a well-tolerated and highly efficacious new treatment option for patients with hypercholesterolemia.
A REASSESSMENT OF HYPERBOLIC MILITARY STATISTICS IN SOME EARLY MODERN BURMESE TEXTS
Authors: Charney Michael
Published: May 2003

Scholarly literature has not taken Burmese accounts of warfare seriously. Colonial historians viewed statistics in these sources as fanciful, exaggerated, and unreliable. Later scholars, both indigenous and western, have followed suit. They judge the chronicle accounts of Burmese warfare solely on the merits of the "objective" data. Much of this valuable material thus remains untouched or unconsidered in the secondary literature. This article suggests alternative ways in which the indigenous warfare accounts can be read. Lists of armies and numbers of soldiers convey significant subjective data on indigenous views of precolonial Burmese history, culture, and society.La littérature érudite n'a pas approché avec sérieux les récits de guerre birmans. Les historiens coloniaux ont considéré les chiffres fournis par ces sources, fantaisistes, exagérés et peu fiables. Plus tard, les chercheurs locaux et occidentaux en ont fait de même. Ils jugent les récits de guerre dans les chroniques birmanes uniquement en se fondant sur les données "objectives." Une bonne partie de ces précieuses informations est ainsi délaissée par la littérature secondaire. Cet article suggère des manières alternatives de lire les récits de guerre indigènes. Les listes d'armées et les nombres de soldats transmettent des données subjectives majeures sur les visions indigènes de l'histoire, la culture et la société birmanes.
Looking at Both Sides of the Equation: Do Student Background Variables Explain Math Performance?
Authors: Acherman-Chor Dora , Aladro Gerardo , Gupta Shamita Dutta
Published: May 2003

Consistently high failure rates in the college algebra course in a predominantly Hispanic university prompted this study. A cohort of 1,362 students completed a survey addressing students’ entry-level knowledge, educational expectation and motivation indicators, attitudes toward math, and family support for education. The lack of significant differences between ethnic groups in the variables measured may indicate a need to shift researchers’ attention from student background variables toward the teaching component of the teaching-learning equation.
The Effects of Institutional Culture on Study Strategies of Hispanic Students as Measured by the Inventario de Comportamiento de Estudio, the Spanish Version of the Study Behavior Inventory
Authors: Bliss Leonard B. , Sandiford Janice R.
Published: May 2003

The Inventario de Comportamiento de Estudio, the Spanish version of the Study Behavior Inventory (SBI), was administered to 322 Hispanic students at Miami-Dade Community College (MDCC). Results were compared with data obtained from Mexican universities and U.S. students using the SBI. MDCC students responded similarly to Mexican public university students. The investigators concluded that study behaviors were determined by students’ socioeconomic characteristics, which affected institutional culture.
Idiotype vaccination in multiple myeloma induced a reduction of circulating clonal tumor B cells
Authors: Rasmussen Thomas , Hansson Lotta , Österborg Anders , Johnsen Hans Erik , Mellstedt Håkan
Published: May 2003

Myeloma cells express the idiotype (Id)–specific antigen that may be targeted by Id vaccination. Six patients with stage I IgG myeloma were immunized with the autologous purified M component together with the adjuvant cytokines interleukin 12 (IL-12) alone or in combination with granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF). The effect of Id vaccination on circulating clonal tumor B cells was monitored by a real-time allele-specific oligonucleotide polymerase chain reaction method. No other treatment was given. Reduction of blood tumor mass was observed in 4 of 6 patients, with one patient achieving a complete molecular remission in blood. In 3 of these 4 patients an Id-specific T-cell response was induced. In the remaining 2 patients with an unchanged level of blood tumor cells, one patient mounted a T-cell response, whereas the other did not. No significant change in the serum M protein level was noted. Id vaccination may target clonal B cells, suggesting that this strategy might be conducive to achieving tumor control. The clinical significance of these findings remains to be established.
Vasoactivity of S-nitrosohemoglobin: role of oxygen, heme, and NO oxidation states
Authors: Crawford Jack H. , White C. Roger , Patel Rakesh P.
Published: May 2003

The mechanisms by which S-nitrosohemoglobin (SNOHb) stimulates vasodilation are unclear and underlie the controversies surrounding the proposal that this S-nitrosothiol modulates blood flow in vivo. Among the mechanistic complexities are the nature of vasoactive species released from SNOHb and the role heme and oxygen play in this process. This is important to address since hemoglobin inhibits NO-dependent vasodilation. We compared the vasodilatory properties of distinct oxidation and ligation states of SNOHb at different oxygen tensions. The results show that SNOHb in the oxygenated state (SNOoxyHb) is significantly less efficient than SNOHb in the ferric or met oxidation state (SNOmetHb) at stimulating relaxation of isolated rat aortic rings. Using pharmacologic approaches to modulate nitrogen monoxide radical (·NO)–dependent relaxation, our data suggest that SNOoxyHb promotes vasodilation in a ·NO-independent manner. In contrast, both SNOmetHb and S-nitrosoglutathione (GSNO), a putative intermediate in SNOHb reactivity, elicit vasodilation in a ·NO-dependent process. Consistent with previous observations, an increase in sensitivity of SNOHb vasodilation at low oxygen tensions also was observed. However, this was not exclusive for this protein but applied to a range of nitrosovasodilators (including a ·NO donor [DeaNonoate], an S-nitrosothiol [GSNO], and the nitroxyl anion donor, Angelis salt). This suggests that oxygen-dependent modulation of SNOHb vasoactivity does not occur by controlling the allosteric state of Hb but is a property of vessel responsiveness to nitrosovasodilators at low oxygen tensions.
Obstacle avoidance for kinematically redundant manipulators using polyhedral approximations
Authors: Zhu X , Qiao H
Published: May 2003

Collision avoidance is an essential requirement for a manipulator to complete a task in an environment with obstacles. In this paper, a pseudo-distance function is presented for a pair of convex polyhedra, along with the algorithm for calculating its derivative. On this basis, a potential field-based approach for obstacle avoidance of kinematically redundant manipulators is developed, with the manipulator links and the environmental obstacles being geometrically modelled as a set of convex polyhedra. The potential function is differentiable almost everywhere with respect to the joint configuration variables of the manipulator. It is incorporated in the ‘null space projection scheme’ in order to achieve obstacle avoidance. Simulation examples are presented to show the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Moving strategy of correction masses in an electromagnetic balancing regulator
Authors: Zeng S
Published: May 2003

As one of a series of reports about the electromagnetic balancing regulator (EBR), this paper studies experimentally the moving strategy and the balancing method of the EBR with three single-direction moving correction masses. Three correction mass moving methods are tried. The experiments show that all these can reduce the vibration of the rotor efficiently. A comparison between these three methods is also involved.
Assessment of zero-dimensional, hybrid and multidimensional simulations for transient air flow through a cylinder-duct assembly
Authors: Bakshi S , Ravikrishna R V
Published: May 2003

The pressure-time characteristics for the charging process of a cylinder with a piston-controlled port through a connecting duct is studied with the objective of assessing the accuracy of various methods such as the lumped parameter or zero-dimensional approach, an intermediate hybrid approach and a full three-dimensional computational fluid dynamics (CFD) calculation. The predictions from all the approaches are compared with experimental data. It is observed that, for a particular cup-shaped geometry of the piston, both the zero-dimensional and hybrid approach overpredict the pressure recovery rate in comparison with the three-dimensional CFD calculation, which is in good agreement with the experimental pressure-time variation. On the other hand, the agreement between the lumped parameter approach and the detailed CFD calculation is better for a flat piston, indicating the importance of the piston geometry.
In vivo analysis of nucleolar proteins modified by the yeast arginine methyltransferase Hmt1/Rmt1p
Authors: XU CHONG , HENRY PAMELA A. , SETYA AMIT , HENRY MICHAEL F.
Published: May 2003

In this report, we have investigated the impact of arginine methylation on the Gar1, Nop1, and Nsr1 nucleolar proteins in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Although previous reports have established that protein arginine methylation is important for nucleocytoplasmic shuttling, they have focused on the examination of heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoproteins (hnRNPs). We have extended this analysis to several nucleolar proteins that represent a distinct functional class of arginine-methylated proteins. We first developed an in vivo assay to identify proteins methylated by the Hmt1 arginine methyltransferase. This assay is based on the fact that the Hmt1 enzyme utilizes S-Adenosyl-L-methionine as the methyl donor for protein arginine methylation. Following SDS polyacrylamide electrophoresis, 11 distinct proteins were identified as substrates for the Hmt1 methyltransferase. Hmt1p overexpression did not increase the methylation level on these proteins, suggesting they are fully methylated under the conditions examined. Three of the radiolabeled proteins were confirmed to be Gar1p, Nop1p, and Nsr1p. To monitor the cellular localization of these proteins, functional GFP fusion proteins were generated and found to be localized to the nucleolus. This localization was independent of arginine methylation. Furthermore, all three proteins examined did not export to the cytoplasm. In contrast, arginine methylation is required for the export of the nuclear RNA-binding proteins Npl3p, Hrp1p, and Nab2p. The observation that three nucleolar proteins are modified by Hmt1p but are not exported from the nucleolus implies an alternate role for arginine methylation.
Changes in self‐perceptions of competence and intrinsic motivation among elementary schoolchildren
Authors: Bouffard Thérèse , Marcoux Marie‐France , Vezeau Carole , Bordeleau Luce
Published: May 2003

Background: Children's perceived competence and intrinsic motivation are assumed to be very high at the outset of schooling. However, how they change and how they relate to each other and to academic achievement across early schooling years remain open to question.

Aims: This 3‐year longitudinal study was aimed at examining the following questions. Do children's perceived competence and intrinsic motivation about reading and mathematics change across the first 3 years of schooling? Do their perceived competence and intrinsic motivation differ according to academic domains? Do their perceived competence and intrinsic motivation relate to their academic achievement in each academic domain?

Sample: A total of 115 elementary schoolchildren (63 boys and 52 girls) were examined in first grade (mean age = 84,5 months, SD = .67) and for the next 2 years.

Method: Children responded to questionnaires about their perceived competence and intrinsic motivation in reading and mathematics. Year‐end grades in these two subjects were used as a measure of performance.

Results: Changes in perceived competence and intrinsic motivation, and between‐year intercorrelations, were observed to differ according to academic domains and gender. Intrinsic motivation did not make a significant contribution to academic achievement at either school grade or in any academic domain, whereas perceived competence was significantly related to achievement at each school grade in both reading and mathematics.

Conclusions: Differences between boys and girls observed in this study were not linked to a specific domain and cannot be attributed to gender‐role stereotypes. Girls appeared to be more precocious in differentiating their competence and intrinsic motivation according to academic domain, as well as in being able to process and integrate information about their ability from past performances in a domain to judge their competence in the same domain.
Learning styles and academic outcome: The validity and utility of Vermunt's Inventory of Learning Styles in a British higher education setting
Authors: Boyle Elizabeth A. , Duffy Tim , Dunleavy Karen
Published: May 2003

Background: Vermunt's (1994) Inventory of Learning Styles (ILS) integrates four components of learning: processing strategies, regulation strategies, mental models of learning and learning orientations. Using explanatory factor analysis, Vermunt (1998) identified four different learning styles, meaning‐directed, reproduction‐directed, application‐directed and undirected, which displayed characteristic patterns of factor loadings across the four components of learning.

Aims: The aims of the current study were to test the generalisability of Vermunt's integrated model of learning with a sample of students from a British university and to establish whether different learning styles were associated with different academic outcomes.

Sample: A total of 273 students from a British university took part.

Methods: Confirmatory factor analysis was used to test Vermunt's four‐factor model of learning styles and compare it with alternative models. Interrelationships between components of the ILS were examined in more detail using regression analyses. The relationship between learning style and academic outcome was also examined.

Results: Fit indices indicated that Vermunt's four‐factor model of learning styles provided the best fit for the current sample. Path estimates associated with meaning‐directed and reproduction‐directed learning styles loaded across components as described by Vermunt but application‐directed and undirected learning styles loaded mainly on conceptions and orientations components. Undirected learning style had a low negative association with academic performance, while the meaning‐directed learning style had a low positive association with academic performance.

Conclusions: Although the ILS did identify Vermunt's four learning styles, different learning environments influence the precise characteristics of each learning style.
Fabrication of Hollow Capsules Based on Hydrogen Bonding
Authors: Zhang Y. , Guan Y. , Yang S. , Xu J. , Han C.C.
Published: May 2003

Hydrogen‐bonding layer‐by‐layer self‐assembly has been successfully extended from two‐ to three‐dimensional systems, i.e., to layers on spherical particles. Hollow capsules (see Figure) were prepared by subsequent removal of the sacrificial core. The core–shell particles and hollow capsules should find applications in medicine and biology.
From Water‐Soluble CdTe Nanocrystals to Fluorescent Nanocrystal–Polymer Transparent Composites Using Polymerizable Surfactants
Authors: Zhang H. , Cui Z. , Wang Y. , Zhang K. , Ji X. , Lü C. , Yang B. , Gao M.
Published: May 2003

Fluorescent CdTe nanocrystal–polymer transparent composites have been fabricated by a combination of aqueous synthesis of nanocrystals, styrene extraction using polymerizable surfactants, and radical polymerization of monomer mixture containing composite nanocrystals. The Figure shows the photoluminescence of transparent CdTe–polymer composites excited by an ultraviolet lamp.
Low‐Temperature Fabrication of Efficient Porous Titania Photoelectrodes by Hydrothermal Crystallization at the Solid/Gas Interface
Authors: Zhang D. , Yoshida T. , Minoura H.
Published: May 2003

Mechanically stable mesoporous nanocrystalline titania thick films can be prepared at low temperature (100 °C) by hydrothermal treatment of an aqueous mixed paste containing nanocrystalline TiO2 powder and Ti salts. The Ti monomers are converted into crystalline TiO2, which acts as a “glue” to chemically connect the TiO2 particles. Highly efficient flexible dye‐sensitized solar cells prepared on a conductive plastic film substrate were realized using this method and a conversion efficiency of 2.3 % at AM1.5 was achieved.
A Novel Photochromic Film by Oxidation Polymerization of a Bisbenzothienylethene with Phenol Groups
Authors: Uchida K. , Takata A. , Saito M. , Murakami A. , Nakamura S. , Irie M.
Published: May 2003

A photochromic polymer film is prepared by the oxidation polymerization of a diarylethene. The photoreactive conformation is maintained. A pattern can be written on the film using visible light, and upon irradiation with IR light, a non‐destructive read‐out of the patterned image is carried out. The structural changes resulting from illumination are shown in the Scheme.
High‐Efficiency Polymer Light‐Emitting Diodes with Stable Saturated Red Emission: Use of Carbazole‐Based Copolymer Blends in a Poly(p‐phenylenevinylene) Derivative
Authors: Niu Y.‐H. , Huang J. , Cao Y.
Published: May 2003

High‐efficiency red emission is a prerequisite for full‐color display applications of light‐emitting diodes. The devices reported here—with stable external quantum efficiency up to 3.8 (photons/electron)‐%—have a light‐emitting layer consisting of a blend of a novel carbazole‐based copolymer (see Figure) in MEHPPV, a more conventional conjugated polymer, as host.
Templated Surface Sol–Gel Synthesis of SiO2 Nanotubes and SiO2‐Insulated Metal Nanowires
Authors: Kovtyukhova N.I. , Mallouk T.E. , Mayer T.S.
Published: May 2003

Free‐standing SiO2 nanotubes have been synthesized by surface sol–gel replication of the pores of alumina membranes. The nanotubes are very flexible (as shown in the Figure) and their walls are smooth and uniformly thick along their length. SiO2‐insulated nanowires were also grown, by electroplating gold inside the SiO2‐coated pores of the membrane, and their I–V characteristics were examined.
Absorption and Emission in Quaterthienyl Thin Films
Authors: Sun H. , Zhao Z. , Spano F.C. , Beljonne D. , Cornil J. , Shuai Z. , Brédas J.‐L.
Published: May 2003

The salient features in the absorption and emission spectra of αT4 aggregates (see Figure) and films are fully accounted for using a model based on linear exciton–phonon coupling and structural defects. In particular, the Davydov splitting is calculated to be of the order of 1 eV, and the unusually small 0–0 emission intensity is attributed to the high sensitivity of the 0–0 intensity to basal plane structural defects.
Molecular cloning, expression, and characterization of a cDNA encoding the arylphorin‐like hexameric storage protein from the mulberry longicorn beetle,Apriona germari
Authors: Kim Seong Ryul , Yoon Hyung Joo , Park Nam Sook , Lee Sang Mong , Moon Jae Yu , Seo Sook Jae , Jin Byung Rae , Sohn Hung Dae
Published: May 2003

We describe here the cloning, expression, and characterization of a cDNA encoding the arylphorin‐like hexameric storage protein from the mulberry longicorn beetle,Apriona germari(Coleoptera, Cerambycidae). The complete cDNA sequence ofA. germarihexamerin (AgeHex) is comprised of 2,160 bp with 720 amino acid residues. The deduced protein sequence of AgeHex is most similar toTenebrio molitorhexamerin2 (65.3%). Phylogenetic analysis further confirmed the AgeHex is more closely related toT. molitorhexmerin2 andT. molitorearly‐staged encapsulation inducing protein than to the other insect storage proteins. Southern blot analysis suggested the presence ofA. germarihexamerin gene as a single copy and Northern blot analysis confirmed fat body‐specific expression at the transcriptional level. The cDNA encoding AgeHex was expressed as a 80‐kDa protein in the baculovirus‐infected insect cells. Western blot analysis using the polyclonal antiserum against recombinant AgeHex indicated that the AgeHex corresponds to storage protein 2 (SP2) present in theA. germarilarval hemolymph. Arch. Insect Biochem. Physiol. 53:49–65, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Isolation and characterization of a novel venom protein from an endoparasitoid, Cotesia rubecula (Hym: Braconidae)
Authors: Asgari Sassan , Zareie Reza , Zhang Guangmei , Schmidt Otto
Published: May 2003

Insects are important vectors of diseases with remarkable immune defense capabilities. Hymenopteran endoparasitoids are adapted to overcome the host defense system and, therefore, are useful sources of immune‐suppressing proteins. Not much is known about venom proteins in endoparasitoids, especially those that have a functional relationship with polydnaviruses (PDVs). Here, we describe the isolation and characterization of a small venom protein (Vn4.6) from an endoparasitoid, Cotesia rubecula, which interferes with the activation of the host hemolymph prophenoloxidase. The coding region for Vn4.6 is located upstream in the opposite direction of a gene coding for a C. rubecula PDV‐protein (Crp32). Arch. Insect Biochem. Physiol. 53:92–100, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Putative isotocin distributions in sonic fish: Relation to vasotocin and vocal–acoustic circuitry
Authors: Goodson James L. , Evans Andrew K. , Bass Andrew H.
Published: May 2003

Recent neurophysiological evidence in the plainfin midshipman fish (Porichthys notatus) demonstrated that isotocin (IT) and arginine vasotocin (AVT) modulate fictive vocalizations divergently between three reproductive morphs. To provide an anatomical framework for the modulation of vocalization by IT and to foster comparisons with the distributions of the IT homologues mesotocin (MT) and oxytocin (OT) in other vertebrate groups, we describe putative IT distributions in the midshipman and the closely related gulf toadfish, Opsanus beta. Double‐label fluorescent histochemistry was used for IT and AVT (by using antibodies for MT, OT, and the mammalian AVT homologue, arginine vasopressin [AVP]). MT/OT‐like immunoreactive (MT/OT‐lir) cell groups were found in the anterior parvocellular, posterior parvocellular, and magnocellular preoptic nuclei. MT/OT‐lir fibers and putative terminals densely innervated the ventral telencephalon and numerous areas in the hypothalamus and brainstem. These distributions included all sites of vocal–acoustic integration recently identified for the forebrain and midbrain and diencephalic components of the ascending auditory pathway. Results were qualitatively comparable across morphs, species, and seasons. In contrast to the widespread distribution of MT/OT‐lir, AVP‐lir somata, fibers, and putative terminals were almost completely restricted to vocal–acoustic regions. These data parallel previous descriptions of AVT immunoreactivity in these species, although the present methods showed a previously undescribed, seasonally variable AVP‐lir cell group in the anterior tuberal hypothalamus, a vocally active site and a component of the ascending auditory pathway. These findings provided anatomic support for the role of IT and AVT in the modulation of vocal behavior at multiple levels of the central vocal–acoustic circuitry. J. Comp. Neurol. 462:1–14, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Octopaminergic modulation of synaptic transmission between an identified sensory afferent and flight motoneuron in the locust
Authors: Leitch Beulah , Judge Sarah , Pitman Robert M.
Published: May 2003

The role of the biogenic amine octopamine in modulating cholinergic synaptic transmission between the locust forewing stretch receptor neuron (fSR) and the first basalar motoneuron (BA1) was investigated. The amines 5‐hydroxytryptamine (5‐HT, serotonin) and dopamine were also studied. Bath application of octopamine, 5‐HT, and dopamine at concentrations of 10‐4 M reversibly decreased the amplitude of monosynaptic excitatory postsynaptic potentials (EPSPs) evoked in BA1 by electrically stimulating the fSR axon. These effects occurred without any detectable change in either input resistance or membrane potential of BA1. The amines also reversibly decreased the amplitude of responses to acetylcholine (ACh) pressure‐applied to the soma of BA1. The muscarinic antagonist scopolamine (10‐6 M) had no significant effect on the octopamine‐induced decrease in ACh responses. These observations suggest that these amines potentially could physiologically depress cholinergic transmission between fSR and BA1, at least in part, by altering nicotinic rather than muscarinic cholinergic receptor function. Although the octopaminergic agonists naphazoline and tolazoline both mimicked the actions of octopamine, the receptor responsible for octopamine‐mediated modulation could not be characterized since amine receptor antagonists tested on the preparation had complex actions. Confocal immunocytochemistry revealed intense octopamine immunoreactivity in the anterior lateral association center, thus confirming the presence of octopamine in neuropil regions containing fSR/BA1 synapses and therefore supporting a role for this amine in the modulation of synaptic transmission between the fSR and BA1. 5‐HT‐immunoreactivity, conversely, was concentrated within the ventral association centers; very little staining was observed in the dorsal neuropil regions in which fSR/BA1 synapses are located. J. Comp. Neurol. 462:55–70, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.