bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Attachment of bovine parvovirus to sialic acids on bovine cell membranes
Authors: Johnson F. Brent , Fenn Laura B. , Owens Thomas J. , Faucheux Laura J. , Blackburn Shawn D.
Published: July 2004

Although it has previously been shown that bovine parvovirus (BPV) attaches to the sialated glycoprotein glycophorin A on erythrocytes, the nature of virus-binding moieties on mammalian nucleated cells is less clear. Buffalo lung fibroblasts (Bu), primary bovine embryonic kidney cells, Madin–Darby bovine kidney cells and bovine embryonic trachea (EBTr) cells were assessed for molecules capable of binding BPV. Competition studies were carried out on both erythrocyte and nucleated cell targets using a variety of sialated compounds and sialic acid-negative compounds. Glycophorin A was found to inhibit BPV binding, while mucin exhibited low-level inhibition. These two sialated compounds also blocked attachment of BPV-modified microsphere carriers to the Bu cell membrane. Influenza A virus was used as a sialic acid competitor and interfered with BPV attachment to erythrocytes and replication in Bu cells. Significantly, the enzyme sialidase removed BPV-binding sites from Bu and EBTr cells. The binding sites could be reconstituted on sialidase-treated cells by the enzymes α-2,3-O-sialyltransferase and α-2,3-N-sialyltransferase. These results indicated that BPV can attach to sialic acid on cell membranes and that the sialylglycoproteins available for virus attachment appear to contain both N- and O-linked carbohydrate moieties, but that not all members of the sialic acid family can bind BPV. Moreover, there may be other moieties that can bind BPV, which may act as either primary or secondary receptors.
Sumoylation of the major immediate-early IE2 protein of human cytomegalovirus Towne strain is not required for virus growth in cultured human fibroblasts
Authors: Lee Hye-Ra , Ahn Jin-Hyun
Published: July 2004

Sumoylation of the major immediate-early IE2 protein of human cytomegalovirus has been shown to increase transactivation activity in target reporter gene assays. This study examined the role of IE2 sumoylation in viral infection. A Towne strain-based bacterial artificial chromosome clone was generated encoding a mutated form of the IE2 protein with Lys→Arg substitutions at positions 175 and 180, the two major sumoylation sites. When human fibroblast (HF) cells were infected with the reconstituted mutant virus, (i) viral growth kinetics, (ii) the accumulation of IE1 (UL123), IE2 (UL122), p52 (UL44) and pp65 (UL83) proteins and (iii) the relocalization of the cellular small ubiquitin-like modifier (SUMO)-1, p53 and proliferating cell nuclear antigen proteins into viral DNA replication compartments were comparable with those of the wild-type and the revertant virus. The data demonstrate that sumoylation of IE2 is not essential for virus growth in cultured HF cells.
Human papillomavirus genotypes in cervical cancers in Mozambique
Authors: Naucler Pontus , da Costa Flora Mabota , Ljungberg Otto , Bugalho Antonio , Dillner Joakim
Published: July 2004

The distribution of human papillomavirus (HPV) types in cervical cancers is essential for design and evaluation of HPV type-specific vaccines. To follow up on a previous report that HPV types 35 and 58 were the dominant HPV types in cervical neoplasia in Mozambique, the HPV types in a consecutive case series of 74 invasive cervical cancers in Mozambique were determined. The most common worldwide major oncogenic HPV types 16 and 18 were present in 69 % of cervical cancers, suggesting that a vaccine targeting HPV-16 and -18 would have a substantial impact on cervical cancer also in Mozambique.
Peptides resulting from the pVP2 C-terminal processing are present in infectious pancreatic necrosis virus particles
Authors: Galloux Marie , Chevalier Christophe , Henry Celine , Huet Jean-Claude , Costa Bruno Da , Delmas Bernard
Published: July 2004

The capsid of birnaviruses contains two proteins, VP2 and VP3, which derive from the processing of a large polyprotein, NH2–pVP2–VP4–VP3–COOH. The proteolytic cascade involved in processing the polyprotein, and in the final maturation of pVP2 (the precursor of VP2), has recently been shown to generate VP2 and four structural peptides in infectious bursal disease virus and blotched snakehead virus. The presence of peptides in infectious pancreatic necrosis virus particles was investigated using mass spectrometry and N-terminal sequencing of virus particles. Three peptides deriving from the C terminus of pVP2 (residues 443–486, 487–495 and 496–508 of the polyprotein) and 14 additional peptides produced by further processing of peptides [443–486] and [496–508] were identified. These results indicate that the presence of several virus-encoded peptides in the virions is a hallmark of birnaviruses.
All five cold-shock domains of unr (upstream of N- ras) are required for stimulation of human rhinovirus RNA translation
Authors: Brown Emma C. , Jackson Richard J.
Published: July 2004

Efficient translation of human rhinovirus-2 (HRV-2) RNA from its internal ribosome entry site (IRES) depends on the presence of cellulartrans-acting factorsupstream ofN-ras(unr) and polypyrimidine-tract-binding protein. unr contains five cold-shock domains (CSDs) and is predicted to act as an RNA chaperone, allowing the HRV-2 IRES to attain the correct conformation for ribosome binding. To investigate the role of each of the CSDs in IRES-dependent translation, five unr mutants, each harbouring a point mutation in a different CSD, were generated. All five mutants were severely impaired in their ability to bind to the IRES and to stimulate translation from it. This showed that the ability of unr to function as an activator of HRV-2 RNA translation requires the RNA-binding activity of all five CSDs.
A synthetic peptide from a heptad repeat region of herpesvirus glycoprotein B inhibits virus replication
Authors: Okazaki Katsunori , Kida Hiroshi
Published: July 2004

Glycoprotein B (gB) is the most conserved glycoprotein of herpesviruses and plays important roles in virus infectivity. Two intervening heptad repeat (HR) sequences were found in the C-terminal half of all herpesvirus gBs analysed. A synthetic peptide derived from the HR region (aa 477–510) of bovine herpesvirus type 1 (BoHV-1) gB was studied for its ability to inhibit virus replication. The peptide interfered with cell-to-cell spread and consistently inhibited replication of BoHV-1, with a 50 % effective concentration value (EC50) of 5 μM. Inhibition of replication was obtained not only with herpesviruses including pseudorabies virus and herpes simplex virus type 1 but also partly with Newcastle disease virus. Possible mechanisms of membrane fusion inhibition by the peptide are discussed.
Negative regulation of herpes simplex virus type 1 ICP4 promoter by IE180 protein of pseudorabies virus
Authors: Gómez-Sebastián S. , Tabarés E.
Published: July 2004

Recombinant pseudorabies viruses (PRVs) gIS8 and N1aHTK were constructed by the insertion of a chimeric gene (α4–TK) from herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) into wild-type PRV. HSV-1 TK expression by these recombinant viruses resulted in enhanced sensitivity to ganciclovir, compared to that of the wild-type PRV, and was similar to the sensitivity shown by HSV-1. Infection with gIS8 or N1aHTK recombinant viruses led to expression of HSV-1 TK mRNA as an immediate–early (IE) gene, observed by downregulation of the HSV-1 α4 promoter. This negative regulation was due to a PRV IE protein, IE180. IE180, however, does not have all the regulatory functions of the infected-cell protein ICP4, as it does not restore the growth of ICP4-deficient HSV-1 mutants.
Human CD8+ T cell responses against five newly identified respiratory syncytial virus-derived epitopes
Authors: Heidema Jojanneke , de Bree Godelieve J. , de Graaff Patricia M. A. , van Maren Wendy W. C. , Hoogerhout Peter , Out Theo A. , Kimpen Jan L. L. , van Bleek Grada M.
Published: July 2004

CD8+ T lymphocytes play a major role in the clearance of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections. To be able to study the primary CTL response in RSV-infected children, epitopes presented by a set of commonly used HLA alleles (HLA-A1, -A3, -B44 and -B51) were searched for. Five epitopes were characterized derived from the matrix (M), non-structural (NS2) and second matrix (M2) proteins of RSV. All epitopes were shown to be processed and presented by RSV-infected antigen-presenting cells. HLA-A1 tetramers for one of these epitopes derived from the M protein were constructed and used to quantify and phenotype the memory CD8+ T cell pool in a panel of healthy adult donors. In about 60 % of the donors, CD8+ T cells specific for the M protein could be identified. These cells belonged to the memory T cell subset characterized by expression of CD27 and CD28, and down-regulation of CCR7 and CD45RA. The frequency of tetramer-positive cells varied between 0·4 and 3 per 104 CD8+ T cells in PBMC of healthy asymptomatic adult donors.
Nucleo-cytoplasmic shuttling of the beet necrotic yellow vein virus RNA-3-encoded p25 protein
Authors: Vetter Guillaume , Hily Jean-Michel , Klein Elodie , Schmidlin Laure , Haas Muriel , Merkle Thomas , Gilmer David
Published: July 2004

The protein p25 encoded by beet necrotic yellow vein virus (BNYVV) RNA-3 is involved in symptom expression of infected plants. Confocal microscopy analysis of wild-type and mutated p25 fused to GFP and transiently expressed in BY-2 tobacco suspension cells identified a nuclear localization signal (NLS) in the N-terminal part of the protein. Functionality of the NLS was confirmed by pull-down assays using rice and pepper importin-α. Furthermore, it was demonstrated that p25 contains a nuclear export sequence sensitive to leptomycin B. The nuclear export signal (NES) was characterized by mutagenesis. A GFP–p25 fusion protein expressed during a BNYVV infection of Chenopodium quinoa leaves had the same subcellular localization as observed during transient expression in BY-2 cells. The symptom phenotype induced by expression of GFP–p25 during infection was similar to that induced by wild-type virus. Studies with mutated derivatives of GFP–p25 revealed that symptom phenotype was altered when the subcellular localization of GFP–p25 was modified.
Reverse Monte Carlo with geometric analysis – RMC+GA
Authors: Wells Stephen , Dove Martin , Tucker Matthew
Published: July 2004

An analysis of simulated framework structures based on the rigid-unit model quantifies the distortion of polyhedra from their ideal geometric forms and decomposes the motions of the structure into components of rigid-unit displacement, rigid-unit rotation and distortion. Case studies analysing the behaviour of quartz and of other silicates demonstrate that the method provides a novel way of extracting information from reverse Monte Carlo simulations. A program calledGASPhas been developed to perform this analysis and is freely available to researchers. Rotations are handled using the rotor method of geometric algebra.
MolViewX: a molecular visualization program for the Macintosh OS X system
Authors: Smith Thomas James
Published: July 2004

MolViewXis a molecular visualization tool written for the Macintosh OS X operating system with a graphical user interface designed for occasional or novice users, but which can also be used to create high-quality images rapidly for publication.
The role of wavelength and source in the search for sulfur-atom positions evaluated in two case studies: lysozyme at room temperature and cryo apocrustacyanin A1
Authors: Cianci Michele , Helliwell John R. , Moorcroft David , Olczak Andrzej , Raftery James , Rizkallah Pierre J.
Published: July 2004

Synchrotron radiation beamlines offer automated data collection with faster and larger detectors, a choice of wavelength(s), intense beams and fine collimation. An increasing output of protein crystal structures sustains an interest in streamlining data collection protocols. Thus, more and more investigators are looking into the use of the anomalous signal from sulfur to obtain initial phase information for medium-size proteins. This type of experiment ideally requires the use of synchrotron radiation, softer X-rays and cryocooling of the sample. Here the results are reported of an investigation into locating the weak,i.e.sulfur, anomalous scatterers in lysozyme using rotating anode or synchrotron radiation data recorded at room temperature. It was indeed possible to locate the sulfur atoms from a lysozyme crystal at room temperature. Accurate selection of images during scaling was needed where radiation damage effects were detected. Most interestingly, comparisons are provided of high-redundancy data sets recorded with synchrotron radiation at λ = 2.0 and 1.488 Å, and with CuKα and MoKα radiation. Apocrustacyanin A1 was also investigated; from the results of a very high redundancy data collection using softer synchrotron X-rays and a cryo-cooled crystal, it was possible to find the sulfur atoms.
SAXS of self-assembled oriented lamellar nanocomposite films: an advanced method of evaluation
Authors: Ruland Wilhelm , Smarsly Bernd
Published: July 2004

Oriented lamellar nanocomposites formed of alternating organic and inorganic layers were prepared by evaporation-induced self-assembly and studied by small-angle X-ray scattering in symmetrical and asymmetrical reflection. Analytical expressions were used for a quantitative fit of the experimental data. The fitting procedure leads to a comprehensive characterization of the lamellar two-phase system in terms of the average thicknesses of the lamellae, the average period and the corresponding variances, using both the stacking model and the lattice model. Furthermore, the width of the domain boundary and the preferred orientation were determined. No significant differences could be found between the parameters obtained for the two models, but the lattice model leads to a better curve fitting. The effects of finite stack height and of instrumental broadening were found to be indistinguishable.
The deformation tensor ∊ of the spin transition in the mixed crystal [Fe0.46Zn0.54(ptz)6](BF4)2
Authors: Kusz Joachim , Spiering Hartmut , Gütlich Philipp
Published: July 2004

The conversion of the spin state of complexes exhibiting thermal spin crossover from the1A1low-spin (LS) state to the5T2high-spin (HS) state is accompanied by a deformation of the lattice due to the larger bond lengths in the HS state as compared with the LS state. In a previous work [Kuszet al.(2000).J. Appl. Cryst.33, 201–205], it has been shown that the deformation of the lattice, corrected for its temperature dependence, can be described by an almost temperature-independent tensor ∊ multiplied by the fraction of molecules in the HS state, γHS. Here the dependence of ∊ in a mixed single crystal of [Fe0.46Zn0.54(ptz)6](BF4)2(ptz = propyltetrazole) with a transition temperature near 110 K is reported. In order to study the dependence of the metal–ligand bond length on the concentration of Zn, five structures were determined at 10 K: the neat iron and the mixed-crystal compound in both the excited HS state (LIESST) and the LS state, and the neat Zn compound. The comparison of the structures shows that neither the bond lengths nor their differences in the HS and LS states depend linearly on the Zn concentration. These deviations can be considered as consequences of elastic interactions directly observed by X-ray diffraction analysis. The lattice constantsaandcalso do not depend linearly on the Zn concentration, contrary to the unit-cell volume and the differences ofaandcbetween the HS and LS states, a fact which is in agreement with the observed linear dependence of these parameters on the temperature-dependent HS fraction.
The elimination of the influence of ambient environmental effects on the structure of `inert' polymers
Authors: Rosa Luis G. , Jacobson P. A. , Lemoine Raymond , Dowben P. A.
Published: July 2004

The construction and use of a vacuum chamber suitable for conventional X-ray diffraction has revealed the influence of the ambient environment, including moisture, on the bulk structure of very thin polymer films. It is concluded that studies of thin film organic systems, even those thought not to be perturbed by ambient water vapor and other contaminants, may benefit from undertaking some studies in such small sample vacuum chambers.
Interference phenomena observed by X-ray diffraction in nanocrystalline thin films
Authors: Rafaja David , Klemm Volker , Schreiber Gerhard , Knapp Michael , Kužel Radomír
Published: July 2004

An increase of the X-ray diffraction line broadening with increasing diffraction angle was observed experimentally in nanocrystalline thin films. Such a change of the line width is usually related to the microstrain in the sample, which, however, contradicts the assumptions that the microstrain is relatively low in nanocrystalline materials and that the line broadening is caused mainly by small crystallite size. For nanocrystalline thin films, the observed changes in the diffraction line broadening are explained by a partial coherence of adjacent crystallites, which is stronger at low diffraction angles than at high diffraction angles. Furthermore, it is found that the degree of coherence of the adjacent crystallites depends on their size and preferred orientation. Smaller crystallites show better coherence, because the corresponding reciprocal-lattice points are broadened compared with those related to large crystallites. A strong preferred orientation improves further the coherence of the adjacent crystallites. Theoretical results are confirmed by experimental data obtained on nanocrystalline (Ti,Al)N thin films using a combination of glancing-angle X-ray diffraction, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy and X-ray texture analysis.
Depth capabilities of neutron and synchrotron diffraction strain measurement instruments. I. The maximum feasible path length
Authors: Withers Philip John
Published: July 2004

In this paper an algorithm is presented for estimating the maximum feasible penetration path length for neutron and synchrotron X-ray strain measurement instruments. This reflects the attenuation and scattering capability of the material under examination, the incident flux and detector arrangement, the likely background signal, the required strain measurement accuracy, the sampling volume and the diffracting geometry. Its validity and generality is examined through a consideration of data collected using a number of instruments on a variety of materials. Two criteria for the maximum feasible path length are examined: one based on the maximum acquisition time, the other based on the minimum acceptable peak height to background ratio. As demonstrated in the companion paper [part II: Withers (2004).J. Appl. Cryst.37, 607–612], the algorithm can be used to delineate those conditions under which neutron and synchrotron X-ray radiations can provide useful information and to identify which is most suited to any particular measurement task.
Depth capabilities of neutron and synchrotron diffraction strain measurement instruments. II. Practical implications
Authors: Withers Philip John
Published: July 2004

In part I [Withers (2004).J. Appl. Cryst.37, 596–606], a framework was presented for estimating the maximum feasible penetration length for neutron and synchrotron X-ray strain measurement. This calculation reflected the attenuation and scattering capability of the material under examination, the incident flux and detector arrangement, the likely background signal, the required strain measurement accuracy, the sampling volume, and the diffracting geometry. In the present paper (part II), preliminary calibration data acquired for a very wide range of neutron and synchrotron sources are presented. This database is used to explore the implications of the framework for delineating those conditions under which a specific instrument can provide useful information within a feasible timescale, in order to identify the most appropriate radiation, energy and instrumental configuration for undertaking measurements in transmission and reflection as a function of depth, and to establish guiding principles for improving the performance of existing instruments.
On the equivalence of the Rietveld method and the correlated integrated intensities method in powder diffraction
Authors: David William I. F.
Published: July 2004

The Rietveld method is the most straightforward and statistically correct approach for the refinement of crystal structure parameters from powder diffraction data. The equivalent two-stage approach, involving the refinement of structural parameters based on integrated intensities extracted using the Pawley method, is extremely useful in circumstances such as the global optimization methods of structure determination, where a great many refinements need to be performed very quickly. The equivalence is emphasized in a simple mathematical relationship between the goodness of fits obtained in Rietveld, Pawley and correlated integrated intensities refinements. A rationale is given for determining the estimated standard deviations for structural variables from powder diffraction data.
Implementing the LASO model: development of a pilot online course at the Faculty of Engineering and Technology, University of Botswana
Authors: Uys Philip , Kiravu Cheddi , Mothibi John
Published: July 2004

This paper reports on the process of developing a blended online engineering course at the Faculty of Engineering and Technology of the University of Botswana. It presents the actual development process in terms of its management, the University's preferred pedagogical approach to student‐centred learning and the consequent technological choices and deployment. In that regard, the paper will demonstrate the development of the Electrical principles course (EEB211) focusing attention on what was done, how and what result was achieved. This paper will be a useful reference for all those staff expected to develop their online courses alongside their normal face‐to‐face lectures.
Memory Outcome after Selective Amygdalohippocampectomy in Patients with Temporal Lobe Epilepsy: One‐year Follow‐up
Authors: Gleissner Ulrike , Helmstaedter Christoph , Schramm Johannes , Elger Christian E.
Published: July 2004

Summary:  Purpose: In a previous study we reported clinically significant memory declines 3 months after selective amygdalohippocampectomy (SAH) in 140 patients with mesial temporal lobe epilepsy, particularly if the resection was left‐sided. We supposed that the observed postoperative impairments might have reflected acute effects of surgery. Therefore we evaluated in the present study whether a recovery can be found 1 year after surgery.

Methods: Verbal and nonverbal memory functions were assessed in 115 patients before and 3 and 12 months after unilateral SAH.

Results: No recovery of postoperative verbal memory declines was found in the left‐SAH group. Clinically meaningful losses were still evident in 33 to 50% of patients. In right‐SAH patients, a recovery of verbal memory was indicated, and effects of surgical complications were no longer evident. One year after surgery, the corresponding preoperative performance was the only significant predictor of a postoperative change in the left‐SAH group.

Conclusions: Verbal memory decline observed 3 months after left SAH is persistent 1 year after surgery. Declines in verbal memory, which were observed in some right‐SAH patients at the short‐term follow‐up, seem to be temporary.
Cardiovascular Regulation and Hippocampal Sclerosis
Authors: Ansakorpi Hanna , Korpelainen Juha T. , Tanskanen Päivikki , Huikuri Heikki V. , Koivula Antero , Tolonen Uolevi , Pyhtinen Juhani , Myllylä Vilho V. , Isojärvi Jouko I. T.
Published: July 2004

Summary: Purpose:Cardiovascular dysregulation has been detected in patients with temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) by using cardiovascular reflex tests and analysis of heart rate variability (HRV). The two methods have not previously been used in the same study to compare them in the assessment of cardioregulatory function. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is considered the best method to reveal structural changes such as hippocampal sclerosis associated with TLE. It is not known whether these structural changes modify cardioregulatory function in patients with TLE.

Methods:Standard cardiovascular reflex tests and analysis of spectral and dynamic measures from 24‐h electrocardiogram (ECG) recordings were performed for eight patients with and 31 patients without hippocampal sclerosis and for 72 control subjects. MRI also was performed in each patient to reveal hippocampal sclerosis.

Results:Various measures of cardiovascular reflexes and HRV were diminished in patients with TLE compared with the control subjects. No significant differences were found in the measures obtained from the cardiovascular reflex tests or analysis of HRV between those with and without hippocampal sclerosis, although a nonsignificant trend toward reduced values was seen among those with hippocampal sclerosis. The values of cardiovascular reflexes and spectral analysis of HRV correlated with each other.

Conclusions:These results suggest that functional rather than structural changes related to TLE are involved mainly as a mechanism of altered cardioregulatory function. The cardiovascular reflex test and analysis of HRV both appear to be useful in studying cardioregulation in patients with TLE.
Inclusive intake screening: shaping medical problems into specialist‐appropriate cases
Authors: Jean Yvette A.
Published: July 2004

Abstract  This paper examines medical intake screening through the process of making appointments with medical specialists. By employing a multi‐method, qualitative approach, it shows how decisions to schedule doctors’ appointments are based on medical knowledge about physicians’ specialties and specific organisational practices. It draws on insights from first‐contact interactions between clients and institutional gatekeepers to enrich our understanding of intake screening. In relation to gatekeeping, rationing commonly gets framed as restrictive screening practices, with a preference for denying or limiting access to treatment. Restrictive screening practices are typically organised to elicit a narrow range of information (‘facts’) relevant to specific eligibility criteria; whereas inclusive intake screening tends to involve less scripted, more complex and open‐ended interactional exchanges between workers and clients, wherein workers help clients frame their claims in ways that will increase their chances of getting accepted. Front‐office workers hold a preference for inclusive intake screening, a preference that is undergirded by the referral‐driven nature of this stage of patient processing, and by a work environment that favours inclusive screening. This finding builds on the literature within medical sociology, but also extends our understanding of frontline decision‐making and the distribution of resources within a variety of people‐processing institutions.
Body Worlds: clinical detachment and anatomical awe
Authors: Walter Tony
Published: July 2004

Abstract If studying anatomy in medical school promotes clinical detachment, how do lay people respond to the crash course in anatomy they receive on visiting the Körperwelten / Body Worlds exhibition? If late modernity's celebration of the living body makes the dead body problematic, how do visitors respond to the aestheticised dead bodies on display? Through examining the written comments of visitors, the article identifies a number of responses. The chief is an elementary scientific gaze in which obvious interest is shown in anatomical details. But because the exhibits are dry, odourless and anonymous, this does not generate the defence of emotional detachment; indeed, among several emotional responses, are fascination and, for some, awe. Body Worlds is less a popularised anatomy lab than a shrine to the human body, a shrine in which medically untrained people can look at the body in new ways.
The stabilization of L‐ascorbic acid in aqueous solution and water‐in‐oil‐in‐water double emulsion by controlling pH and electrolyte concentration
Authors: Lee J.‐S. , Kim J.‐W. , Han S.‐H. , Chang I.‐S. , Kang H.‐H. , Lee O.‐S. , Oh S.‐G. , Suh K.‐D.
Published: July 2004

This study presents a new approach that can stabilize effectively l‐ascorbic acid in water‐in‐oil‐in‐water (w/o/w) double emulsions. Basically, the behavior of l‐ascorbic acid in the aqueous phase was observed, considering its molecular deformation. Then, it was found that the stability determined in the aqueous phase by high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) showed that the collapse of ionization of l‐ascorbic acid played a crucial role in protecting the molecular deformation. Then, the stable aqueous system was incorporated into the internal aqueous phase of the double emulsions. From the PLC analysis, it was observed that the l‐ascorbic acid in an appropriate system showed high molecular stability for a long time. Moreover, in the measurement of in vitro skin permeation, the l‐ascorbic acid stabilized in this study showed considerable skin permeation ability, indicating its potential applicability in pharmaceutics and cosmetics.
Analyzing the laser‐light reflection from human hair fibers. II. Deriving a measure of hair luster
Authors: Wortmann F.‐J. , Schulze Zur Wiesche E. , Bourceau B.
Published: July 2004

Hair shine or luster is perceived as an important, though analytically somewhat elusive, attribute of beauty, primarily associated with clean and healthy hair. Principles for the assessment of hair luster are developed that are consistent with the practical situation. These principles are related to the components of light, specularly and diffusely reflected from single hair fibers, as measured by laser‐based, multiangle goniophotometry, presented in Part I. Considering various definitions of gloss, their tradition, practical implementation, and their inherent limitations for testing hair, the gloss index as a physically consistent measure of hair luster is derived from the ratio of the integral intensities of the light components. Changes of the parameter values along hair length, namely their decrease, are analyzed for hairs of different color and ethnic origin. The correlation with shine evaluations of hair tresses by panels, based on literature data, is analyzed and ascertained.
Review of the current understanding of the effect of ultraviolet and visible radiation on hair structure and options for photoprotection
Authors: Signori V.
Published: July 2004

This article describes the current understanding of the effect of ultraviolet (UV) radiation and visible light on the structure and integrity of human hair fibers; furthermore, it discusses current and past approaches to the protection of hair from UV rays. Relevant literature is reviewed.
Advances in the control of locusts (Orthoptera: Acrididae) in eastern Australia: from crop protection to preventive control
Authors: Hunter David M
Published: July 2004

Abstract  Locusts can form dense bands and swarms that can cause substantial damage to pastures and crops. For many years, State Departments of Agriculture aimed to protect crops by conducting locust control programs in their agricultural areas but in recent years the Australian Plague Locust Commission (APLC) has conducted preventive control programs that begin in locust source areas in the interior. The current preventive control programs are the culmination of more than 70 years of continuous research, conducted for many years by CSIRO and State Departments of Agriculture and more recently, by the APLC. Early research followed the sequence of outbreaks in agricultural areas but by the 1960s, there was increasing evidence that locusts commonly bred in the interior and then migrated to agricultural zones. These migrations covered long distances, often from one state to another and in 1974 the APLC was established with the specific mandate to control locusts that posed an interstate threat. The rationale was for the APLC to control locusts both at source in the interior as well as in the agricultural zone. Controlling locusts in the interior had never been attempted before and an intense research program was initiated as part of APLC operations that has culminated in the current preventive locust control programs. Preventive control involves early intervention, where treatment begins with localised populations present early in breeding sequences and continues every generation thereafter. To rapidly locate and control localised locust infestations over a large part of eastern Australia, a Decision Support System for locust management was developed that integrates data from a wide variety of sources to help operations staff determine when and where to concentrate survey and control efforts. When threatening locust populations are detected, control teams can be rapidly deployed to wherever treatment is required. An integral part of locust control programs is limiting environmental and monetary costs so that an important component of APLC research has been to focus on reducing chemical use by using the lowest effective dose and by using products that can be applied in barriers 300–500 m apart so that only a small proportion of the area is sprayed. Increasing constraints on insecticide use, including the production of organic beef in locust source areas, has led to the development of a biological alternative. The latter program led to nearly 25 000 ha of locusts being treated with the biological agent Metarhizium during the 2000–01 locust season, the first large‐scale operational use of this biopesticide anywhere in the world.
Weed biological control: applying science to solve seemingly intractable problems
Authors: Briese David T
Published: July 2004

Abstract  Exotic weeds pose a problem of considerable economic and environmental importance to Australia. As a consequence, Australia has developed into a leading centre of research on weed biological control, with over 60 weeds the targets of past and current projects. Using primarily entomological examples, this review highlights the contributions made by Australian scientists to the development of theory and the improvement of practice in weed biological control. It also shows how biological control practitioners have made use of, and contributed to, broader theory and knowledge of plant‐herbivore relationships. Finally, it concludes with some reflections on the future direction of biological control in Australia.
The role of reactive oxygen species and apoptosis in the pathogenesis of varicocele in a rat model and efficiency of vitamin E treatment
Authors: Cam Kamil , Simsek Ferruh , Yuksel Meral , Turker Levent , Haklar Goncagul , Yalcin Suha , Akdas Atif
Published: July 2004

We investigated role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and apoptosis in the pathogenesis of infertility in experimental model of varicocele. The protective effect of vitamin E was also examined. Three groups of rats were constructed as the first group had sham operation, experimental varicoceles were established by partial ligation of the left renal vein in later two groups. Third group had received vitamin E. Production of ROS was determined by chemiluminescence assay (CL). The in situ end labelling technique was utilized to investigate apoptosis. Tissue vitamin E levels were measured by high performance liquid chromatography. The differences between luminol enhanced CL levels of groups were not statistically significant. However, the difference between CL levels of lucigenin probe in left testicles of sham and varicocele groups were statistically significant ( p = 0.0007). Similarly, the results of the third group receiving vitamin E significantly differed from the varicocele group ( p = 0.0025). The difference of apoptotic index was also statistically significant between sham and varicocele groups ( p = 0.0038). Although the values of apoptotic index detected in the vitamin E group were lower compared with the varicocele group, the difference was not significant. This study proposes that ROS production and apoptosis in the testicles were induced with experimental varicocele. Vitamin E had a protective role. An increased rate of apoptosis with experimental varicocele suggests a molecular alteration, which may involve ROS overproduction as the triggering mechanism. Consequently, this study indicates an association between varicocele and infertility at molecular level through stimulation of ROS and apoptosis.
Galanin‐Like Peptide as a Link Between Metabolism and Reproduction
Authors: Cunningham M. J.
Published: July 2004

Galanin‐like peptide (GALP) is a hypothalamic neuropeptide that binds and activates galanin receptors in vitro. Following the discovery of GALP, researchers have attempted to properly place it in the context of galanin receptor physiology. Central injections of GALP have revealed some common actions with galanin, such as acutely increased food intake and suppression of the thyroid axis. Other actions are unique to GALP, such as long‐term inhibition of food intake and stimulation of luteinizing hormone (LH) secretion in male rats. GALP and galanin also produce differential effects on expression of the immediate early gene product Fos in the brain. Determining which of these actions are dependent on galanin receptors (versus a putative GALP‐specific receptor), as well as which actions represent the authentic physiology of endogenous GALP will require continued experimentation. GALP gene expression is positively regulated by several hormones involved in the control of energy balance and metabolism, namely leptin, insulin and thyroid hormone. Based on current evidence, GALP neurones may serve as a hypothalamic relay, transmitting information from the periphery to circuits within the brain involved in the physiological control of metabolism and reproduction.
Neuroendocrinological and Molecular Aspects of Insect Reproduction
Authors: Simonet G. , Poels J. , Claeys I. , Van Loy T. , Franssens V. , De Loof A. , Broeck J. Vanden
Published: July 2004

This review summarizes recent advances and novel concepts in the area of insect reproductive neuroendocrinology. The role of ‘classic’ hormones, such as ecdysteroids and juvenoids, to control reproduction is well documented in a large variety of insect species. In adult gonads, ecdysteroids appear to induce a cascade of transcription factors, many of which also occur during the larval molting response. Recent molecular and functional data have created opportunities to study an additional level of regulation, that of neuropeptides, growth factors and their respective receptors. As a result, many homologs of factors playing a role in vertebrate reproductive physiology have been discovered in insects. This review highlights several neuropeptides controlling the biosynthesis and release of the ‘classic’ insect hormones, as well as various peptides and biogenic amines that regulate behavioural aspects of the reproduction process. In addition, hormone metabolizing enzymes and second messenger pathways are discussed with respect to their role in reproductive tissues. Finally, we speculate on future prospects for insect neuroendocrinological research as a consequence of the recent ‘Genomics Revolution’.
Oestradiol Restores Cell Proliferation in Dentate Gyrus and Subventricular Zone of Streptozotocin‐Diabetic Mice
Authors: Saravia F. , Revsin Y. , Lux‐Lantos V. , Beauquis J. , Homo‐Delarche F. , De Nicola A. F.
Published: July 2004

Type 1 diabetes mellitus correlates with several brain disturbances, including hypersensitivity to stress, cognitive impairment, increased risk of stroke and dementia. Within the central nervous system, the hippocampus is considered a special target for alterations associated with diabetes. Neurogenesis is a plastic event restricted to few adult brain areas: the subgranular zone of the dentate gyrus and the subventricular zone (SVZ). First, we studied the ability for neurogenesis in the dentate gyrus and SVZ of chronic diabetic mice induced by streptozotocin (STZ). Using bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) labelling of cells in the S‐phase, we observed a strong reduction in cell proliferation rate in both brain regions of diabetic mice killed 20 days after STZ administration. Second, because oestrogens are active neuroprotective agents, we investigated whether 17β‐oestradiol (200 µg pellet implant in cholesterol during 10 days) restored brain cell proliferation in the diabetic mouse brain. Our results demonstrated a complete reversibility of dentate gyrus cell proliferation in oestrogen‐treated diabetic mice. This plasticity change was not exclusive to the hippocampus because oestrogen treatment restored BrdU incorporation into newborn cells of the SVZ region of diabetic animals. Oestrogen treatment did not alter the hyperglycemic status of STZ‐diabetic mice. Moreover, oestrogen did not modify BrdU incorporation in control animals. These data show that oestrogen treatment strongly stimulates brain neurogenesis of diabetic mice and open up new venues for understanding the potential neuroprotective role of steroid hormones in diabetic encephalopathy.
Melanocortin Peptides Stimulate Prolactin Gene Expression and Prolactin Accumulation in Rat Pituitary Aggregate Cell Cultures
Authors: Langouche L. , Hersmus N. , Papageorgiou A. , Vankelecom H. , Denef C.
Published: July 2004

Treatment for 40 h of reaggregate pituitary cell cultures from 14‐day‐old female rats with nanomolar concentrations of γ3‐melanocyte‐stimulating hormone (MSH) increased prolactin mRNA but not growth hormone (GH) mRNA expression levels as measured by quantitative real‐time reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR). During the 40 h incubation, γ3‐MSH stimulated prolactin accumulation in the culture medium. α‐MSH, a potent agonist of the rat melanocortin‐3 receptor (MC3R) and Ala8‐γ2‐MSH, a very weak agonist of the MC3R, increased prolactin mRNA expression at a similar concentration range as γ3‐MSH. The effect of γ3‐MSH on prolactin mRNA expression was abolished when aggregates were cultured in the presence of thyroid or glucocorticoid hormones, but not of oestradiol. By contrast, oestradiol abolished the stimulatory effect of Ala8‐γ2‐MSH on prolactin mRNA expression. In GH3 cells stably transfected with the enhanced green fluorescent protein (eGFP) gene under control of a 3‐kb prolactin promoter fragment, a dose as low as 1 nMγ3‐MSH, added for 24 h, significantly increased eGFP fluorescence. Agouti‐related protein (AgRP83−132), a known endogenous MC3R and MC4R antagonist, did not reduce the stimulation of prolactin mRNA expression by γ3‐MSH or Ala8‐γ2‐MSH. On its own, AgRP83−132 significantly increased prolactin mRNA expression level and prolactin accumulation. Both γ2‐MSH and Ala8‐γ2‐MSH increased [S35]GTPγS binding in membrane preparations of 14‐day‐old rat pituitaries and of GH3 cells. Whereas MC3R and MC5R mRNA were detectable by RT‐PCR in normal pituitary, these receptor mRNAs were undetectable in GH3 cells using various oligonucleotide primer sets. The present findings indicate that melanocortin peptides stimulate prolactin gene expression and production and that, at least in part, a receptor different from the classic MCR is involved. AgRP appears to have other actions than its known antagonistic activity on the MC3R and MC4R.
Trust in Agency
Authors: Casadesus‐Masanell Ramon
Published: July 2004

Existing models of the principal–agent relationship assume the agent works only under extrinsic incentives. However, many observed agency contracts take the form of a fixed payment. For such contracts to work, the principal must trust the agent to work in the absence of incentives. I show that agency fosters the advent of intrinsic motivation and trustworthy behavior. Three distinct motivational schemes are analyzed: norms, ethical standards, and altruism. I identify conditions under which these mechanisms arise and show how they promote trust. The analysis alters several important predictions of conventional models: (1) Better outcomes may ensue in highly uncertain environments; (2) the principal is better off the more the agent is risk averse; and (3) larger equilibrium extrinsic incentives need not be associated with larger effort or larger total surplus.
Organizational Languages
Authors: Wernerfelt Birger
Published: July 2004

This paper is concerned with communication within a team of players trying to coordinate in response to information dispersed among them. The problem is nontrivial because they cannot communicate all information instantaneously but have to send longer or shorter sequences of messages, using coarse codes. We focus on the design of these codes and show that members may gain compatibility advantages by using identical codes and that this can support the existence of several, more or less efficient, symmetric equilibria. Asymmetric equilibria may exist only if coordination across different sets of members is of sufficiently different importance. The results are consistent with the stylized fact that firms differ even within industries and that coordination between divisions is harder than coordination inside divisions.
Sequential Investment, Firm Motives, and Agglomeration of Japanese Electronics Firms in the United States
Authors: Chung Wilbur , Song Jaeyong
Published: July 2004

Recent research finds that firms investing abroad tend to agglomerate with other foreign entrants. Yet firms often invest multiple times within the same host country, which raises the question of whether firms agglomerate with their competitors' or their own prior investments. Collocation's attractiveness also may vary as a firm's entry motives evolve. The activities of prior and present investments often differ—initial investment may be for distribution while later ones might be for manufacturing. For Japanese investment into the United States in the electronics sector from 1980 to 1998, we find that firms tend to collocate only with their own prior investments. The exception is firms with little of their own experience, who tend to collocate with competitors. These results demonstrate the importance of firm heterogeneity in determining agglomeration behavior.
Influence of Rhodolith‐Forming Species and Growth‐Form on Associated Fauna of Rhodolith Beds in the Central‐West Gulf of California, México
Authors: Hinojosa‐Arango Gustavo , Riosmena‐Rodríguez Rafael
Published: July 2004

Abstract. Rhodoliths provide a stable and three‐dimensional habitat to which other seaweeds and invertebrates can attach. Although ecological factors affecting rhodolith beds have been studied, little is known about the effect of rhodolith species and growth‐form on associated fauna. Experiments were conducted at three rhodolith beds in the central‐west Gulf of California. Faunal abundance differed significantly in relation to rhodolith‐forming species, but no significant differences were observed between different growth‐forms. Rhodolith structure differs between the speciesLithophyllum margaritaeandNeogoniolithon trichotomum, and the combination of structure differences and rhodolith abundances may be responsible of the significant differences in faunal abundance and richness. Crustaceans, polychaetes and molluscs were the most important taxa in all three rhodolith beds. The amphipod speciesPontogeneia nasaand the cnidarianAiptasiasp. were dominant in both rhodolith beds, El Requesón and Isla Coyote, in Bahía Concepción. The Isla Coronados rhodolith bed was dominated by an unidentified harpacticoid copepod (Copepoda sp.1). Rhodolith species is more important than growth‐form in determining abundance and richness of the associated fauna. Nevertheless, factors such as wave motion, depth, bioturbation and others should be considered when studying organisms associated with rhodolith beds.