bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tensile Properties of Arabidopsis Cell Walls Depend on Both a Xyloglucan Cross-Linked Microfibrillar Network and Rhamnogalacturonan II-Borate Complexes
Authors: Ryden Peter , Sugimoto-Shirasu Keiko , Smith Andrew Charles , Findlay Kim , Reiter Wolf-Dieter , McCann Maureen Caroline
Published: June 2003

The mechanical properties of plant organs depend upon anatomical structure, cell-cell adhesion, cell turgidity, and the mechanical properties of their cell walls. By testing the mechanical responses of Arabidopsis mutants, it is possible to deduce the contribution that polymers of the cell wall make to organ strength. We developed a method to measure the tensile parameters of the expanded regions of turgid or plasmolyzed dark-grown Arabidopsis hypocotyls and applied it to the fucose biosynthesis mutant mur1, the xyloglucan glycosyltransferase mutants mur2 and mur3, and the katanin mutant bot1. Hypocotyls from plants grown in the presence of increasing concentrations of dichlorobenzonitrile, an inhibitor of cellulose synthesis, were considerably weakened, indicating the validity of our approach. In order of decreasing strength, the hypocotyls of mur2 > bot1 and mur1 > mur3 were each found to have reduced strength and a proportionate reduction in modulus compared with wild type. The tensile properties of the hypocotyls and of the inflorescence stems of mur1 were rescued by growth in the presence of high concentrations of borate, which is known to cross-link the pectic component rhamnogalacturonan II. From comparison of the mechanical responses of mur2 and mur3, we deduce that galactose-containing side chains of xyloglucan make a major contribution to overall wall strength, whereas xyloglucan fucosylation plays a comparatively minor role. We conclude that borate-complexed rhamnogalacturonan II and galactosylated xyloglucan contribute to the tensile strength of cell walls.
Characterization of the Early Response of Arabidopsis toAlternaria brassicicolaInfection Using Expression Profiling
Authors: van Wees Saskia C.M. , Chang Hur-Song , Zhu Tong , Glazebrook Jane
Published: June 2003

All tested accessions of Arabidopsis are resistant to the fungal pathogen Alternaria brassicicola. Resistance is compromised by pad3 or coi1 mutations, suggesting that it requires the Arabidopsis phytoalexin camalexin and jasmonic acid (JA)-dependent signaling, respectively. This contrasts with most well-studied Arabidopsis pathogens, which are controlled by salicylic acid-dependent responses and do not benefit from absence of camalexin or JA. Here, mutants with defects in camalexin synthesis (pad1, pad2, pad3, and pad5) or in JA signaling (pad1, coi1) were found to be more susceptible than wild type. Mutants with defects in salicylic acid (pad4 and sid2) or ethylene (ein2) signaling remained resistant. Plant responses to A. brassicicola were characterized using expression profiling. Plants showed dramatic gene expression changes within 12 h, persisting at 24 and 36 h. Wild-type and pad3 plants responded similarly, suggesting that pad3 does not have a major effect on signaling. The response of coi1 plants was quite different. Of the 645 genes induced by A. brassicicola in wild-type and pad3 plants, 265 required COI1 for full expression. It is likely that some of the COI1-dependent genes are important for resistance to A. brassicicola. Responses to A. brassicicola were compared with responses to Pseudomonas syringae infection. Despite the fact that these pathogens are limited by different defense responses, approximately 50% of the induced genes were induced in response to both pathogens. Among these, requirements for COI1 were consistent after infection by either pathogen, suggesting that the regulatory effect of COI1 is similar regardless of the initial stimulus.
Review
Authors: Carey Rosalind
Published: June 2003

Book reviewed:

Matthew B. Ostrow. Wittgenstein's Tractatus: A Dialectical Interpretation.
The Civil Service under One Country, Two Systems: The Cases of Hong Kong and the People's Republic of China
Authors: Chan Hon S.
Published: June 2003

Under the principle of “one country, two systems,” Hong Kong's and China's civil services are changing, but they clearly are not converging. The civil service reforms made in Hong Kong and China appear to be heading toward two logical extremes: one toward strengthening political authority over the civil service, and the other instituting greater institutionalization. What appears to be a problem in Hong Kong may be seen as a solution in China. Not only reform problems, but also reform options, are defined in relation to wider political institutions and changing socioeconomic dynamics. The study shows that while some things do need to be uniform, such as loyalty to the state and central government, a great deal of flexibility regarding administrative systems within one country is possible. There can be a modern nation without a truly national civil service.
The Politics of Court Budgeting in the States: Is Judicial Independence Threatened by the Budgetary Process?
Authors: Douglas James W. , Hartley Roger E.
Published: June 2003

Judicial independence in American politics has been hailed as a means of preserving individual liberty and minority rights against the actions of the majoritarian branches of government. Recently, however, legal professionals and scholars of the courts have begun to question the magnitude of judicial independence, suggesting that budgeting and finance issues pose a threat to judicial independence. This article explores whether state judiciaries are being threatened on this front by soliciting the perceptions of key state officials. Using surveys of court administrators, executive budget officers, and legislative budget officers in the states, we examine three aspects of the politics of judicial budgeting: competing for scarce resources, interbranch competition, and pressure to raise revenues. The survey responses suggest that, in a substantial number of states, judicial independence has, at times, been threatened by interbranch competition and pressures to raise revenues.
Corpora Analyses of Frequency of Schwa Deletion in Conversational American English
Authors: Patterson David , LoCasto Paul C. , Connine Cynthia M.
Published: June 2003

This study utilized two conversational speech databases to generate statistics about the frequency of occurrence of schwa deletion. Overall, the results showed a low frequency of schwa deletion in conversational American English. We investigated a number of factors that could have a potential effect on the propensity to delete schwa. The most pervasive factor was stress environment (pre-stress vs. post-stress), which showed a greater frequency of schwa deletion in the post-stress environment. The results are discussed with reference to processing spoken words and the role for corpus statistics in constraining models of word recognition.
Summary Statement on Primary Central Nervous System Lymphomas From the Eighth International Conference on Malignant Lymphoma, Lugano, Switzerland, June 12 to 15, 2002
Authors: Ferreri Andrés J.M. , Abrey Lauren E. , Blay Jean-Yves , Borisch Bettina , Hochman Jacob , Neuwelt Edward A. , Yahalom Joachim , Zucca Emanuele , Cavalli Franco , Armitage James , Batchelor Tracy
Published: June 2003

Under the sponsorship of the International Extranodal Lymphoma Study Group, a Multidisciplinary Workshop on primary CNS lymphoma (PCNSL) with over 50 participants from Europe, North America, Israel, and Australia was held as part of the Eighth International Conference on Malignant Lymphoma in Lugano, Switzerland (June 12 to 15, 2002). The main purposes of the Workshop were to exchange the latest scientific information, to analyze methodologic issues in the design of clinical trials, to reach a consensus on treatment recommendations and prognostic factors, to discuss clinical and molecular targets for future studies, and to establish an international collaborative group to conduct laboratory and clinical investigations in PCNSL. This article summarizes the contents of the Workshop, analyzes the current knowledge on the most relevant biologic and clinical issues in PCNSL, and focuses on fundamental challenges to be addressed in future studies.
Simple Clinical Prognostic Model for Hepatocellular Carcinoma in Developing Countries and Its Validation
Authors: Tan Chee Kiat , Law Ngai Moh , Ng Han Seong , Machin David
Published: June 2003

Purpose: More than 80% of hepatocellular carcinomas (HCCs) worldwide occur in developing countries, especially in Asia. It often presents at an advanced stage beyond treatment. In this circumstance, a simple prognostic model is useful. Previous prognostic models require radiologic and laboratory investigations that are not readily available in developing countries. Our aim is to formulate and then validate a simple clinical prognostic model for HCC in an Asian population using only clinical parameters and with serum alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) as the sole laboratory test.

Patients and Methods: Cox regression modeling was performed on several clinical parameters and serum AFP level in 397 patients with HCC who received only supportive care in Singapore. A later group of 324 HCC patients from an Asia-Pacific–wide randomized trial was then used to validate the model.

Results: Ascites, physical performance status, and serum AFP were independently predictive of survival. Cox analysis yielded a simple score based on these three variables that categorizes patients into low-, medium-, and high-risk groups with 6-month survivals of 43%, 21%, and 5%, respectively. The prospective validation data provided corresponding estimates of 33%, 15%, and 3% and give confirmation of the utility of the simple model.

Conclusion: We have formulated and prospectively validated a simple prognostic score for untreated HCC that only requires a clinical evaluation for ascites and physical performance status and measurement of serum AFP. This simple model is particularly apt for developing country circumstances and can also be used to select patients for treatment trials.
Cover Picture: Novel Ruthenium‐ and Platinum‐Catalyzed Sequential Reactions: Synthesis of Tri‐ and Tetrasubstituted Furans and Pyrroles from Propargylic Alcohols and Ketones (Angew. Chem. Int. Ed. 23/2003)
Authors: Nishibayashi Yoshiaki , Yoshikawa Masato , Inada Youichi , Milton Marilyn Daisy , Hidai Masanobu , Uemura Sakae
Published: June 2003

A One‐Pot Sequential Reaction for the ruthenium‐ and platinum‐catalyzed preparation of a trisubstituted furan from a propargylic alcohol and acetone in good yield with high regioselectivity is shown. Two different catalysts, the thiolate‐bridged diruthenium complex [Cp*RuCl(μ2‐SMe)RuCp*Cl] (Cp*=C5Me5) and PtCl2, sequentially promote each catalytic cycle in the same medium. For more information, see the Communication by M. Hidai, S. Uemura, and co‐workers on pp. 2681 ff.
Induction of P450 monooxygenases in the German cockroach, Blattella germanica L.
Authors: Brown Danielle , Zhang Li , Wen Zhimou , Scott Jeffrey G.
Published: June 2003

The cytochrome P450 monooxygenases are an important metabolic system whose level of activity can be influenced by several dietary constituents. We examined the effects of six known P450 inducers on the levels of total cytochromes P450, cytochrome b5, and six monooxygenase activities in adult German cockroaches. In addition, the levels of CYP6L1 and CYP9E2 mRNA were also investigated. Phenobarbital treatment resulted in increases in total cytochromes P450 and metabolism of three resorufin analogues, but not CYP6L1 nor CYP9E2 mRNA. There was no significant effect of the other five inducers on any of the monooxygenase parameters we measured. In comparison with other insects, the German cockroach seems unusually refractory to most inducing agents. Arch. Insect Biochem. Physiol. 53:119–124, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cloning and expression of gallerimycin, an antifungal peptide expressed in immune response of greater wax moth larvae, Galleria mellonella
Authors: Schuhmann Berit , Seitz Volkhard , Vilcinskas Andreas , Podsiadlowski Lars
Published: June 2003

A novel defensin‐like peptide was identified in the greater wax moth, Galleria mellonella. It was discovered in a haemocyte cDNA bank enriched with transcripts upregulated after immune challenge via subtractive hybridisation and suppressive PCR. The deduced amino acid sequence of the defensin‐like peptide exhibits similarities to the antifungal peptides drosomycin from Drosophila melanogaster and heliomicin from Heliothis virescens. Therefore, it has been termed gallerimycin. Upregulation of gallerimycin after stimulation of the immune system by LPS‐injection was demonstrated by quantitative real‐time PCR. A full‐size cDNA was cloned and overexpressed in Escherichia coli Origami cells in order to obtain a functional peptide with disulfide bridges. The recombinant peptide was active against the entomopathogenic fungus Metarhizium anisopliae, but not against yeast, gram‐negative and gram‐positive bacteria. Arch. Insect Biochem. Physiol. 53:125–133, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cortical connections of the second somatosensory area and the parietal ventral area in macaque monkeys
Authors: Disbrow Elizabeth , Litinas Evangelos , Recanzone Gregg H. , Padberg Jeffrey , Krubitzer Leah
Published: June 2003

To gain insight into how cortical fields process somatic inputs and ultimately contribute to complex abilities such as tactile object perception, we examined the pattern of connections of two areas in the lateral sulcus of macaque monkeys: the second somatosensory area (S2), and the parietal ventral area (PV). Neuroanatomical tracers were injected into electrophysiologically and/or architectonically defined locations, and labeled cell bodies were identified in cortex ipsilateral and contralateral to the injection site. Transported tracer was related to architectonically defined boundaries so that the full complement of connections of S2 and PV could be appreciated. Our results indicate that S2 is densely interconnected with the primary somatosensory area (3b), PV, and area 7b of the ipsilateral hemisphere, and with S2, 7b, and 3b in the opposite hemisphere. PV is interconnected with areas 3b and 7b, with the parietal rostroventral area, premotor cortex, posterior parietal cortex, and with the medial auditory belt areas. Contralateral connections were restricted to PV in the opposite hemisphere. These data indicate that S2 and PV have unique and overlapping patterns of connections, and that they comprise part of a network that processes both cutaneous and proprioceptive inputs necessary for tactile discrimination and recognition. Although more data are needed, these patterns of interconnections of cortical fields and thalamic nuclei suggest that the somatosensory system may not be segregated into two separate streams of information processing, as has been hypothesized for the visual system. Rather, some fields may be involved in a variety of functions that require motor and sensory integration. J. Comp. Neurol. 462:382–399, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Dopamine and histamine in the developing stomatogastric system of the lobster Homarus americanus
Authors: Pulver Stefan R. , Thirumalai Vatsala , Richards Kathryn S. , Marder Eve
Published: June 2003

Dopamine and histamine are neuromodulators found in the adult stomatogastric nervous system (STNS) of several crustacean species. We used antibodies against tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) and histamine to map the distribution and developmental acquisition of the dopamine and histamine neurons in the STNS of the lobster, Homarus americanus. Embryos, larvae, juvenile and adult animals were studied. TH labeling was present in the STNS as early as E80–85 (80–85% of embryonic development). A subset of preparations in embryos, larvae, juveniles, and adults contained 1–5 labeled somata in the stomatogastric ganglion. Histamine staining appeared in the STNS as early as E50. The distribution of both TH and histamine staining remained relatively constant through development. Electrophysiological recordings demonstrated that receptors for both amines are present in the embryo. Bath application of dopamine increased the frequency of the pyloric rhythm in embryos, and evidence for dopaminergic activation of peripherally initated spiking in motor axons was seen. In embryos and adults, histamine inhibited the motor patterns produced by the stomatogastric ganglion (STG). These data suggest that the dopaminergic and histaminergic systems in H. americanus appear relatively early in development and that the effects of each are largely maintained through development. J. Comp. Neurol. 462:400–414, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A method of equi‐valued surface construction from volume data on a face‐centered cubic lattice
Authors: Takahashi Tomokazu , Yonekura Tatsuhiro , Kishi Yoshiki
Published: June 2003

In this paper, the authors propose a method of constructing the equi‐valued surface from quantized data based on the face‐centered cubic lattice. Hitherto, the quantization of the three‐dimensional scalar field has been generally based on the simple cubic lattice, and the technique called the marching cubes method is widely used in constructing equi‐valued surfaces. It is known theoretically, on the other hand, that lattice quantization of the three‐dimensional scalar field is best based on the face‐centered cubic lattice. The proposed method provides a polyhedron approximation of the equi‐valued surface by linear interpolation from the quantized data of the three‐dimensional scalar field based on the face‐centered cubic lattice. An experiment on equi‐valued surface construction was performed for the scalar field generated algebraically by using a meta‐ball. The equi‐valued surface obtained by the proposed method is compared to the equi‐valued surfaces obtained by the marching cubes method and other related cube decomposition methods. The effectiveness and range of application of the proposed method are demonstrated. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn Pt 3, 86(12): 1–13, 2003; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/ecjc.10095
A quick AND/OR search for multimedia signals based on histogram features
Authors: Kashino Kunio , Kurozumi Takayuki , Murase Hiroshi
Published: June 2003

The problem of finding the point in time at which a known audio or video source (reference signal) appears in a long audio or video source (input signal) is referred to as a time series search, in contrast to a text string search. In a time series search, a search can be performed quickly by combining the audio and video, and then identifying several search conditions using logical equations. Thus, in this paper the authors describe the application of the time series active search method, a method to search audio signals proposed in the authors' previous paper, to video searches. Next, the authors propose an efficient algorithm for AND searches and OR searches of reference signals. In addition, the authors propose a multimodal AND search which combines audio and video. The proposed algorithms are faster than combining the results of searches performed individually. For instance, in an OR search of a reference signal, when the mutual similarity in the reference signals is above 0.8, five reference signals can be searched in a search time that is 1.2 times faster than searching one reference signal. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn Pt 3, 86(12): 54–64, 2003; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/ecjc.10142
Cooperation and competition of agents in the auction of computer bridge
Authors: Ando Takahisa , Kobayashi Noriyuki , Uehara Takao
Published: June 2003

The auction in contract bridge is a game with incomplete information. This paper models the process as an interaction among agents with a hypothetical reasoning mechanism. The criterion for the action of each agent is defined as “maximizing gain by cooperating with the partner and minimizing loss by competing with the opponents.” An agent with the following characteristics is created. Based on the course of bidding, the hands of both sides are estimated by hypothetical reasoning. Then flexible bids are made in an effort to obtain the contract with the greatest gain or smallest loss of points. Experiments show that in a game with incomplete information, it is useful not only to send information to the partner, but also to disrupt information exchange by the opponents. The effect of ambiguity of information on the behavior of both sides is discussed. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Electron Comm Jpn Pt 3, 86(12): 76–86, 2003; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/ecjc.10144
The essential oil of Achillea falcata L.
Authors: Kürkçüoğlu Mine , Demirci Betül , Tabanca Nurhayat , Özek Temel , Başer K. Hüsnü Can
Published: June 2003

Water‐distilled oils of Achillea falcata L. collected from two different localities in Turkey were analysed by GC–MS. Fifty‐two and 60 components were identiﬁed, representing 95% and 90%, respectively, of the total oil. 1,8‐Cineole (14–24%), camphor (4–24%), α‐pinene (2–12%) were characterized as the main constituents. The enantiomeric distribution of 1S(−) camphor was measured as 93.3% and 99.6% in the two oils, respectively. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Composition of the essential oil of Pallenis spinosa (L.) Cass. (Asteraceae)
Authors: Senatore Felice , Bruno Maurizio
Published: June 2003

The essential oil of Pallenis spinosa (L.) Cass. was obtained by hydrodistillation. In total 38 components were identiﬁed by GC and GC–MS. Oxygenated sesquiterpenoids amounted to 60.2% of the oil. The main components were germacra‐1(10),5‐dien‐3,4‐diol (18.4%), α‐cadinol (14.1%), 3‐acetoxygermacra‐1(10),5‐dien‐4‐ol (13.0%), T‐cadinol (8.2%) and δ‐cadinene (5.8%). The oil does not show antimicrobial activity. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Composition and antibacterial activity of the essential oil of Anisochilus carnosus (Linn. ﬁl.) Benth., a Tamil plant acclimatized in Sicily
Authors: Senatore Felice , Lentini Francesca , Venza Francesca , Bruno Maurizio , Napolitano Francesco
Published: June 2003

The essential oil from aerial parts of Anisochilus carnosus (Linn. ﬁl.) Benth. (Lamiaceae) was obtained by hydrodistillation. The oil content was 0.13% (v/w), on a fresh weight basis. The oil composition was analysed by GC and GC–MS and 28 compounds were identiﬁed, accounting for 94.3% of the oil. Carvacrol (27.9%), camphor (14.1%) and α‐cis‐bergamotene (10.2%) were the most abundant components. The oil is active against Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Chemical composition of Nepeta crassifolia Boiss. & Buhse oil from Iran
Authors: Dabiri M. , Seﬁdkon F.
Published: June 2003

Hydrodistillation of volatile oil from the aerial parts at full ﬂowering stage of Nepeta crassifolia Boiss. & Buhse was analysed by a combination of GC and GC–MS. Twenty‐one components were characterized in the oil layer. The main constituents were 4aα,7α,7aα‐nepetalactone (92.6%), linalyl acetate (2.6%), piperitone (0.80%), germacrene D (0.73%), 4aβ,7α,7aβ‐nepetalactone (0.64%) and β‐caryophyllene (0.58%). Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Components of the essential oil from Petasites japonicus
Authors: Miyazawa Mitsuo , Teranishi Ayako , Ishikawa Yukio
Published: June 2003

The components of the essential oil from the leaves, roots and ﬂower stems of Petasites japonicus were analysed by GC and GC–MS. As a result, 69 compounds, amounting to 84–91% of the total oil, were characterized. The major components of the leaf essential oil were β‐caryophyllene (22%) and valencene (15%). The root oil contained angelic acid (18%), eremophilene (10%) and α‐phellandrene (10%) as the major components. On the ﬂower stem oil, valencene (12%), α‐phellandrene (11%) were the main components. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Essential oils of the leaves and stems of four Psidium spp.
Authors: da Silva João Domingos , Luz Arnaldo Iran R. , da Silva Milton Helio L. , Andrade Eloisa Helena A. , Zoghbi Maria das Graças B. , Maia José Guilherme S.
Published: June 2003

The essential oils of the leaves and ﬁne stems of Psidium acutangulum, P. striatulum, P. guineense and P. guajava were obtained by hydrodistillation and analysed by GC–MS. The main compounds identiﬁed in the oil of P. acutangulum were α‐pinene (14.8%), 1,8‐cineole (12.9%) and β‐pinene (10.1%). The oil of P. striatulum was dominated by β‐caryophyllene (28.6%), α‐selinene (7.7%), caryophyllene oxide (7.6%) and β‐selinene (7.4%). The major constituents found in the oil of P. guineense were β‐bisabolol (17.4%), limonene (6.8%) and epi‐α‐bisabolol (6.7%). The oil of P. guajava was dominated by α‐pinene (23.9%), 1,8‐cineole (21.4%) and β‐bisabolol (9.2%). Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The role of age of acquisition and language usage in early, high‐proficient bilinguals: An fMRI study during verbal fluency
Authors: Perani Daniela , Abutalebi Jubin , Paulesu Eraldo , Brambati Simona , Scifo Paola , Cappa Stefano F. , Fazio Ferruccio
Published: June 2003

We assessed the effects of age of acquisition and language exposure on the cerebral correlates of lexical retrieval in high‐proficient, early‐acquisition bilinguals. Functional MRI was used to study Spanish–Catalan bilinguals who acquired either Spanish or Catalan as a first language in the first years of life. Subjects were exposed to the second language at 3 years of age, and have used both languages in daily life since then. Subjects had a comparable level of proficiency in the comprehension of both languages. Lexical retrieval with the verbal fluency task resulted in the well‐established pattern of left hemispheric activation centered on the inferior frontal region. The effect of age of acquisition was assessed by dividing the subjects into two groups, on the basis of the language acquired first (Catalan‐born or Spanish‐born bilinguals). Functional comparisons indicated that less extensive brain activation was associated with lexical retrieval in the language acquired earlier in life. The two groups were also different in language usage/exposure, as assessed with a specific questionnaire; in particular, the exposure to the second language (Spanish) was less intensive in the case of Catalans. This was reflected in a significant interaction, indicating a more extensive activation in Catalans during production in Spanish. Overall, these results indicate that, during a production task, both age of acquisition and language exposure affect the pattern of brain activation in bilinguals, even if both languages are acquired early and with a comparable level of proficiency. Hum. Brain Mapping 19:170–182, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Androgen regulation of FLICE‐like inhibitory protein gene expression in the rat prostate
Authors: Nastiuk Kent L. , Kim John W. , Mann Mana , Krolewski John J.
Published: June 2003

In hope of eventually identifying defects in human prostatic neoplasias that render them insensitive to anti‐androgen therapy, we have examined the regulation of components of ligand‐induced cell death pathways during castration‐induced regression of the prostate. Rat prostates were obtained after surgical castration with or without subsequent androgen replacement. The mRNA levels of genes encoding components of the apoptotic pathway were measured from individual prostates. Whole prostates 1–10 days after castration did not show a significant change in mRNA levels encoding either Fas or FasL, which some studies suggest are necessary for regression to occur. However, the mRNA encoding a catalytically inactive cysteinyl aspartate‐specific protease (caspase) analog, FLICE‐like inhibitor protein (FLIP), decreases during the first day following castration. In the most apoptotically responsive ventral lobe of the rat prostate, the reduction in FLIP mRNA levels is evident within 12 h of castration. The mRNA levels of the principal target of FLIP inhibition, caspase‐8, do not change during the period preceding the onset of detectable DNA fragmentation. Androgen administration to castrated rats reverses prostate regression, and restores FLIP mRNA to normal levels. By acting as an inhibitor of caspase‐8, FLIP may protect prostatic epithelium from apoptosis. Androgen withdrawal, by reducing FLIP mRNA levels, might leave the cells vulnerable to as yet unidentified cell death signals. J. Cell. Physiol. 196: 386–393, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Role of cell‐cycle regulatory proteins in gynecological cancer
Authors: Milde‐Langosch Karin , Riethdorf Sabine
Published: June 2003

Human malignant tumors are characterized by abnormal proliferation resulting from alterations in cell‐cycle regulatory mechanisms. This review summarizes the current knowledge about these aberrations in malignant tumors of the ovary, endometrium, cervix uteri, and vulva. The data indicate that analysis of single cell cycle stimulating or inhibiting proteins partly produces unexpected, apparently paradoxical results, and cell‐cycle regulatory pathways should be regarded as a whole in order to identify the molecular mechanisms leading to abnormal tumor cell proliferation. For the papillomavirus (HPV)‐ associated cervical and vulvar carcinomas, the manifold effects of the viral oncogenes E6 and E7 on cell‐cycle control are described. J. Cell. Physiol. 196: 224–244, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Caffeine induces G2/M arrest and apoptosis via a novel p53‐dependent pathway in NB4 promyelocytic leukemia cells
Authors: Ito Keisuke , Nakazato Tomonori , Miyakawa Yoshitaka , Yamato Kenji , Ikeda Yasuo , Kizaki Masahiro
Published: June 2003

Methylxantine derivative, caffeine, is known to prevent the p53‐dependent apoptosis pathway via inhibition of ATM (ataxia telangiectasia mutated) kinase, which activates p53 by phosphorylation of the Ser‐15 residue. In contrast, it has been reported that caffeine induces p53‐mediated apoptosis through Bax protein in non‐small‐cell lung cancer cells. Therefore, the effects of caffeine on cellular growth in malignant cells are controversial. We investigated the effects of caffeine on cell proliferation, cell cycle progression, and induction of apoptosis in NB4 promyelocytic leukemia cells containing wild‐type p53. Caffeine suppressed the cellular growth of NB4 cells in a dose‐ and time‐dependent manner. Caffeine induced G2/M phase cell cycle arrest in NB4 cells in association with the induction of phosphorylation at the Ser‐15 residue of p53 and induction of tyrosine phosphorylation of cdc2. Expression of Bax protein was increased in NB4 cells after treatment with caffeine. Interestingly, the antisense oligonucleotides for p53 significantly reduced p53 expression and caffeine‐induced G2/M phase cell cycle arrest in NB4 cells. These results suggest that caffeine induces cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in association with activation of p53 by a novel pathway to phosphorylate the Ser‐15 residue and induction of phosphorylation of cdc 2 in leukemic cells with normal p53. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Eicosapentaenoic acid inhibits PDGF‐induced mitogenesis and cyclin D1 expression via TGF‐β in mesangial cells
Authors: Hida Mariko , Fujita Hisayo , Ishikura Kenji , Omori Sayu , Hoshiya Makiko , Awazu Midori
Published: June 2003

Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), an ω‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acid derived from fish oil, is efficacious in glomerular diseases where mesangial proliferation is a key event. We examined the mechanisms of action of EPA on platelet‐derived growth factor (PDGF)‐stimulated rat mesangial cell mitogenesis. EPA dose‐dependently inhibited PDGF‐stimulated [3H]‐thymidine incorporation. PDGF‐induced PDGF receptor autophosphorylation, an initial event for PDGF signaling, was not affected by 2 µg/ml EPA. Similarly, PDGF‐stimulated activation of extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK) was not altered. On the other hand, EPA inhibited cyclin‐dependent kinase 4 (CDK4) activation and cyclin D1 protein induction, a critical step for G1/S progression. TGF‐β secretion assessed by ELISA and bioassay was increased by EPA at 18 h. Coincubation with anti‐TGF‐β antibody inhibited the EPA‐induced suppression of [3H]‐thymidine incorporation and cyclin D1 expression. SB203580, an inhibitor of p38, a downstream kinase of TGF‐β, did not affect EPA's growth inhibitory effect. These results demonstrate that EPA inhibits PDGF‐stimulated mesangial cell mitogenesis and cyclin D1 expression via TGF‐β. J. Cell. Physiol. 196: 293–300, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Geldanamycin inhibits migration of glioma cells in vitro: A potential role for hypoxia‐inducible factor (HIF‐1α) in glioma cell invasion
Authors: Zagzag David , Nomura Motohiro , Friedlander David R. , Blanco CY , Gagner Jean‐Pierre , Nomura Naoko , Newcomb Elizabeth W.
Published: June 2003

Focal adhesion kinase (FAK) and hypoxia‐inducible factor (HIF‐1α) are both up‐regulated in glioblastoma multiforme (GBMs), particularly in invasive zones. Because FAK may play an important role in the invasion of glioma cells into the surrounding brain, we sought an agent that causes down‐regulation of FAK phosphorylation as a potential inhibitor of brain tumor invasion and growth. Geldanamycin (GA), a benzoquinone ansamycin antibiotic, binds to heat shock protein 90 (Hsp90) and interferes with its function. GA inhibits the proliferation of various non‐glial cells and has anti‐tumor activity. Moreover, GA blocks HIF‐regulated transcription of VEGF and inhibits the VEGF‐induced phosphorylation of FAK and migration of endothelial cells. Here, we tested the effect of GA on glioma cell migration in vitro and its potential to down‐regulate HIF‐1α induction. Our results demonstrate that GA (i) decreases U87MG, LN229, and U251MG glioma cell migration; (ii) reduces cell migration independent of p53 and PTEN status; (iii) prevents migration at non‐toxic concentrations; (iv) reduces phosphorylation of FAK; and (v) inhibits cobalt chloride (CoCl2)‐mediated induction of HIF‐1α in glioma cells. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report showing that GA can inhibit phosphorylation of FAK concomitant with a decrease in cellular migration. One of the most clinically relevant aspects of this study is that GA interferes with the induction of HIF‐1α that has been linked with glioma cell migration and angiogenesis. Given the fact that GA is a small lipophilic molecule capable of penetrating the blood brain barrier together with the data presented here provide a strong rationale for its use or its analogues in the treatment of highly invasive GBMs. J. Cell. Physiol. 196: 394–402, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Modulation of PAI‐1 and proMMP‐9 syntheses by soluble TNFα and its receptors during differentiation of the human monocytic HL‐60 cell line
Authors: Peiretti Franck , Bernot Denis , Lopez Sophie , Bonardo Bernadette , Deprez‐Beauclair Paule , Juhan‐Vague Irène , Nalbone Gilles
Published: June 2003

During phorbol ester‐induced differentiation of HL‐60 monocytic cells, tumor necrosis factorα (TNFα) synthesis and secretion are increased, which contributes to the autocrine regulation of TNFα‐responsive genes. We investigated how, during phorbol ester‐induced differentiation of HL‐60 cells, the secreted TNFα modulated plasminogen activator inhibitor type I (PAI‐1) and gelatinase B (MMP‐9) syntheses, two proteins involved in pericellular proteolysis. The differentiation‐induced release of TNFα, was abolished by the hydroxamate‐based matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) inhibitor, RU36156. RU36156 or a neutralizing anti‐TNFα significantly down‐regulated PAI‐1 synthesis exclusively during the early phases of differentiation (from promyelocyte to monocytic‐like cells), which underlined the activating role of autocrine TNFα during this time range. As cells progressed to monocyte/macrophage phenotype, they still released TNFα, but RU36156 or anti‐TNFα no longer had an effect on PAI‐1 synthesis. This lack of effect was not due to a default of TNFα signaling since PAI‐1 synthesis was still stimulated in response to exogenous TNFα. TNFα receptor RI was also actively released and was shown to reduce TNFα activity which may account for the inability of soluble TNFα to up‐regulate PAI‐1 synthesis. In later mature stage, cells became susceptible to exogenous TNFα‐induced apoptosis and rapidly lost their ability to respond to TNFα. The MMP‐9 synthesis followed similar regulation as PAI‐1. Isolated human blood monocytes‐derived macrophages behave like HL‐60‐derived macrophages. In conclusion, these results show that during leukocyte differentiation, time windows exist during which the autocrine TNFα is active and then down‐regulated by RI, which may temper a continuous up‐regulation of the synthesis of proteins involved in pericellular proteolysis. J. Cell. Physiol. 196: 346–353, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Mda‐7/IL‐24 induces apoptosis of diverse cancer cell lines through JAK/STAT‐independent pathways
Authors: Sauane Moira , Gopalkrishnan Rahul V. , Lebedeva Irina , Mei Mei Xin , Sarkar Devanand , Su Zhao‐Zhong , Kang Dong‐Chul , Dent Paul , Pestka Sidney , Fisher Paul B.
Published: June 2003

Experimental evidence documents that the MDA‐7/IL‐24 protein (an IL‐10 family cytokine) binds to IL‐20 and IL‐22 receptor complexes resulting in the activation of JAK/STAT signaling pathways. Recent published reports utilizing human blood derived primary lymphocytes have provided additional confirmatory evidence relating to the cytokine properties of this molecule. A notable attribute of mda‐7/IL‐24 is its cancer cell‐specific apoptosis inducing capacity, which currently remains incompletely understood. Treatment with distinctive tyrosine kinase inhibitors (Genistein and AG18) or a JAK‐selective inhibitor (AG490) did not prevent Ad.mda‐7 induced apoptosis in diverse cell lines. In addition, there is no apparent correlation between patterns of expression of IL‐20R1, IL‐20R2, and IL‐22R mRNA and susceptibility to Ad.mda‐7 in different cell lines. Furthermore, Ad.mda‐7 is able to induce killing in STAT/JAK deficient cells. In contrast, treatment with the p38MAPK selective inhibitor SB203580, partially inhibited apoptosis induced by Ad.mda‐7 in different cell lines. These results demonstrate for the first time that signaling events leading to susceptibility to Ad.mda‐7 induced apoptosis, might be tyrosine kinase independent and can thus be distinguished from its cytokine function related properties mediated by the IL‐20/IL‐22 receptor complexes that require JAK/STAT kinase activity. J. Cell. Physiol. 196: 334–345, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Eyelid movements in normal human fetuses
Authors: Petrikovsky Boris M. , Kaplan Gary , Holsten Nancy
Published: June 2003

Purpose

We undertook this study to investigate the characteristics of blinking activity in healthy human fetuses.

Methods

Blinking activity was studied sonographically in healthy fetuses between 33 and 42 weeks' menstrual age. Horizontal and coronal sonographic views of the eye were obtained and videotaped. Fetal blinking movements were analyzed by reviewing the videotape in slow motion. Fetal vibroacoustic stimulation was also used when clinically indicated.

Results

We examined a total of 18 healthy fetuses. Fetal blinking was detected in 89% of cases, with a mean frequency of 6.2 movements per 60‐minute observation period. Vibroacoustic stimulation was associated with increased fetal blinking in the 6 fetuses in which it was applied (mean, 15.3 movements per 60‐minute observation period).

Conclusions

Blinking is a normal fetal activity. The increased frequency of blinking activity associated with vibroacoustic stimulation may be considered a part of the normal startle reflex. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 31:299–301, 2003
Acute increase in intracranial pressure revealed by transcranial Doppler sonography
Authors: Reinhard Matthias , Petrick Manfred , Steinfurth Georg , Ziyeh Sargon , Hetzel Andreas
Published: June 2003

Increased pulsatility of blood flow in the basal cerebral arteries recorded with the use of transcranial Doppler sonography (TCD) corresponds to increased intracranial pressure (ICP) to near the level of the diastolic arterial blood pressure. We describe the case of a 39‐year‐old woman who developed acute reduction in consciousness, anisocoria, gaze deviation, and right‐sided hemiparesis 2 days after resection of a relapsed astrocytoma. MRI revealed only a moderate enlargement of the ventricles, but TCD revealed highly pulsatile waveforms of all basal cerebral arteries, showing a biphasic pattern with diastolic backflow. This pattern was interpreted as a massive increase in ICP with imminent danger of cerebral circulatory arrest corresponding to acute malresorptive hydrocephalus. External cerebrospinal fluid drainage was immediately undertaken, revealing excessive ICP of more than 50 cm H2O. Twenty‐four hours after this intervention, both the ICP and the Doppler waveforms had returned to normal. This case illustrates the usefulness of TCD for diagnosing a critical but potentially reversible acute increase in ICP with imminent cerebral circulatory arrest. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 31:324–327, 2003
Visualization of bilateral carotid cavernous sinus fistulas with duplex sonography
Authors: Sanden Ulrike , Grosse Uwe , Jaksche Hans
Published: June 2003

Duplex sonography used as a primary diagnostic tool in the case of a 17‐year‐old boy with a traumatic head injury revealed bilateral carotid cavernous sinus fistulas, with bilateral dilated venous convolutions next to the carotid siphon and dilated superior ophthalmic veins. A bilateral craniectomy allowed visualization of the entire circle of Willis together with the dilated cavernous sinuses. Doppler spectral analysis of blood flow in the arterialized superior ophthalmic veins revealed an arterialized venous pattern with retrograde and increased blood flow. The same blood flow profile was found in the venous cavernous sinuses. These findings were confirmed by digital subtraction angiography. We planned to perform embolization of the patient's fistulas, but intracranial and subarachnoid hemorrhaging developed, and the patient died the day before the procedure was to have been performed. The entire pathologic state of carotid cavernous sinus fistulas, from their origin beside the carotid siphon to the superior ophthalmic veins, can be visualized with duplex sonography, particularly when patients have undergone craniectomy. We believe that patients with frontal or basilar skull fracture should undergo duplex sonographic examination to detect carotid cavernous sinus fistulas. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 31:319–323, 2003
Sonographic detection of multifocality in breast carcinoma
Authors: Park Jeong Mi , Yoon Ghil‐Suk , Kim Sun Mi , Ahn Sei‐Hyun
Published: June 2003

Purpose

The aim of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy and clinical value of preoperative sonographic detection of multifocality in breast carcinoma.

Methods

Between November 1, 1999, and November 30, 2000, we prospectively compared the sonographic and histopathologic findings for all nodules measuring 1 cm or less in the longest dimension on sonography in 19 consecutive patients diagnosed with breast carcinoma. For each nodule, the final histopathologic diagnosis, size, and, in cases of nodules in the same breast as the primary lesion, the distance from that lesion were evaluated.

Results

The 19 patients examined, all of whom were women, had a mean age of 42.1 years (range, 28–62 years). Thirty nodules were detected on sonography: 15 patients had a total of 24 nodules in the ipsilateral breast, 2 patients each had 1 nodule in the contralateral breast, and 2 patients each had 1 nodule in the ipsilateral breast and 1 nodule in the contralateral breast, for a total of 26 ipsilateral and 4 contralateral nodules. Of the 30 lesions, 20 (67%) appeared to be malignant (ie, satellite nodules) on sonography. Histopathologic examination showed that of these malignant‐looking lesions, 15 (75%), which were found in 10 patients, were malignant and 5 (25%), which were found in 4 patients, were benign. For 7 (70%) of the 10 patients whose nodules appeared malignant on sonography, the initial treatment plan was changed because of the sonographic findings. Ten lesions were assessed as benign on sonography; histopathologic examination confirmed that all 10 were benign. Sonography had a sensitivity of 100%, a specificity of 67%, a positive predictive value of 75%, a negative predictive value of 100%, and an accuracy rate of 83%. The mean size of the nodules was 0.8 cm (range, 0.3–1.4 cm). The mean distance of the 26 ipsilateral nodules from the primary lesion was 1.8 cm (range, 0.5–6 cm).

Conclusions

Preoperative sonography is accurate and reliable for detecting small satellite nodules and can have an important role in the preoperative evaluation of patients for whom breast‐conserving surgery is planned. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 31:293–298, 2003
How does polyspermy happen in mammalian oocytes?
Authors: Wang Wei‐Hua , Day Billy N. , Wu Guang‐Ming
Published: June 2003

Polyspermy is one of the most commonly observed abnormal types of fertilization in mammalian oocytes. In vitro fertilization (IVF) provides approaches to study the mechanisms by which oocytes block polyspermic fertilization. Accumulated data indicate that oocyte, sperm and insemination conditions are all related to the occurrence of polyspermic fertilization. A high proportion of immature and aged oocytes showed polyspermy as compared with mature oocytes. Preincubation of oocytes and/or sperm with oviductal epithelial cells or collected oviductal fluid before IVF reduces polyspermic penetration. Recently, it was found that an abnormal zona pellucida is one of main causes of polyspermy in human eggs. A high proportion of polyspermy has resulted from the use of a high concentration of capacitated spermatozoa at the site of fertilization, irrespective of in the in vivo or in vitro environment. Oviductal secretions or oviductal epithelial cells themselves can regulate the number of spermatozoa reaching or binding to the zona pellucida thus reducing multiple sperm penetration. Suboptimal in vitro conditions, such as supplementations in IVF media, pH, and temperature during IVF, also induce polyspermic fertilization in some mammals. Species‐specific differences are present regarding the relationship between insemination conditions and polyspermy. Microsc. Res. Tech. 61:335–341, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.