bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Valuation ideals of order two in 2‐dimensional regular local rings
Authors: Noh Sunsook
Published: November 2003

Let K be the quotient field of a 2‐dimensional regular local ring (R, m) and let v be a prime divisor of R, i.e., a valuation of K birationally dominating R which is residually transcendental over R. Zariski showed that: such prime divisor v is uniquely associated to a simplem‐primary integrally closed ideal I of R, there are only finitely many simple v‐ideals including I, and all the other v‐ideals can be uniquely factored into products of simple v‐ideals. The number of nonmaximal simple v‐ideals is called the rank of v or the rank of I as well. It is also known that such anm‐primary ideal I is minimally generated by o(I)+1 elements, where o(I) denotes the m‐adic order of I. Given a simple valuation ideal of order two associated to a prime divisor v of arbitrary rank, in this paper we find minimal generating sets of all the simple v‐ideals and the value semigroup v(R) in terms of its rank and the v‐value difference of two elements in a regular system of parameters of R. We also obtain unique factorizations of all the composite v‐ideals and describe the complete sequence of v‐ideals as explicitly as possible. (© 2003 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
On minimal submanifolds in an Euclidean space
Authors: Wang Qiaoling
Published: November 2003

The concepts “super stable” and “super index” for minimal submanifolds in a Euclidean space are introduced. These concepts coincide with the usual concepts “stable” and “index” when the submanifolds have codimension one. We prove that the only complete super stable minimal submanifolds of finite total scalar curvature and of dimension not less than three in a Euclidean space are affine planes. We also prove that a complete minimal submanifold of dimension larger or equal to three in a Euclidean space with finite super index has finitely many ends. (© 2003 WILEY‐VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)
Sequestration of connexin43 in the early endosomes: An early event of Leydig cell tumor progression
Authors: Segretain Dominique , Decrouy Xavier , Dompierre Jim , Escalier Denise , Rahman Nafis , Fiorini Céline , Mograbi Baharia , Siffroi Jean‐Pierre , Huhtaniemi Ilpo , Fenichel Patrick , Pointis Georges
Published: November 2003

Connexins form gap junction channels that allow intercellular communication between neighboring cells. Compelling evidence has revealed that Cx are tumor‐suppressor genes and reduced Cx expression has been related with uncontrolled cell growth in tumors and transformed cells. In the present study, we addressed Cx transcriptional and posttranscriptional regulations during the earlier stage of testicular tumors confined to Leydig cells in a transgenic mice model. In situ hybridization indicated that connexin43 (Cx43) mRNA was highly expressed either at early tumorogenesis (3 m) characterized by intense proliferation of Leydig cells, or at advanced tumorogenesis (6–7 m) when tumor cells completely invaded the testis. In contrast, Cx43 protein analyzed by Western blotting or classic immunohistochemical analyses was present at the beginning of tumor progression, but was dramatically reduced as tumor advanced. Application of high‐resolution deconvolution microscopy to testis sections demonstrates that cells that proliferate exhibited an aberrant cytoplasmic Cx43 localization, in contrast to the expected plasma membrane Cx43 localization in normal Leydig cells. Dual immunofluorescence labeling with specific markers of cellular compartments shows that cytoplasmic Cx43 signal was mainly sequestered within early endosomes. Altogether, this study provides the first evidence that impaired Cx43 trafficking in endosomes is an early event associated with uncontrolled cell proliferation that could serve as a neoplastic marker. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Perceptual differences in sequential stimuli across patients with musician's and writer's cramp
Authors: Lim Vanessa K. , Bradshaw John L. , Nicholls Michael E.R. , Altenmüller Eckart
Published: November 2003

Previous research has demonstrated a relationship between the regularity of motor production and the ability to make accurate perceptual judgments. The current study investigated the temporal abilities of two groups of patients with known movement problems (musicians' and writers' cramp), some of whom have had many years of training in temporal discrimination. Patients and controls (musician and nonmusician, respectively) judged whether the last of six sequential auditory or tactile stimuli occurred earlier or later in comparison to five previously and regularly presented stimuli. In both sensory domains, patients with musicians' cramp detected the early stimulus better than controls. When detecting the onset of late stimuli, only in the auditory domain were patients worse than controls. Patients with writers' cramp, however, did not show any significant group differences in either auditory or tactile domains, suggesting that such patients are not deficient in processing sequential stimuli. In conclusion, compared to controls, patients with musician's cramp demonstrated generalized timing anomalies, occurring in the symptomatic (tactile) and the asymptomatic (auditory) sensory domains. This timing problem is likely to be a consequence of the dystonic symptoms rather than the cause. © 2003 Movement Disorder Society
Measuring the rate of progression of Parkinson's disease over a 5‐year period with β‐CIT SPECT
Authors: Pirker Walter , Holler Iris , Gerschlager Willibald , Asenbaum Susanne , Zettinig Georg , Brücke Thomas
Published: November 2003

Recent imaging studies suggest a rapid degeneration of the dopaminergic system in early Parkinson's disease (PD), followed by a slowing of the degenerative process in advanced disease. In the present study, a group of early‐stage PD patients underwent three sequential [123I]β‐CIT SPECT studies to assess the decline of striatal dopamine transporter binding over a 5‐year period. Twenty‐one of a cohort of 24 early PD patients who participated in an earlier longitudinal β‐CIT SPECT imaging study [Mov Disord 2002;17:45–53] were included. Scan intervals were 26 ± 11 months (scan 1–2) and 38 ± 15 months (scan 2–3), respectively. The relative annual rate of decline of striatal β‐CIT binding from age‐expected normal values at the time of Scan 1 was used as primary outcome variable. The relative annual decline of striatal binding from Scan 1 to Scan 2 (4.5 ± 4.6%) and from Scan 2 to Scan 3 (3.0 ± 3.0%) was not significantly different. The non‐significant difference in progression rate was due mainly to the rapid early decline of striatal binding in 1 patient who subsequently developed a severe dysexecutive dementia syndrome. These data are not suggestive of substantial change in the course of dopaminergic degeneration in PD within the first 5 to 7 years after symptom onset. © 2003 Movement Disorder Society
Interleukin‐1A (−889) genetic polymorphism increases the risk of multiple system atrophy
Authors: Combarros Onofre , Infante Jon , Llorca Javier , Berciano José
Published: November 2003

In a case‐control study using a clinically well‐defined group of 30 multiple system atrophy (MSA) patients and 110 control subjects, homozygosity for interleukin‐1A (IL‐1A) allele 2 (high secretor of proinflammatory cytokine) in the regulatory region (‐889) of the IL‐1A gene was associated with a fivefold increased risk for MSA. © 2003 Movement Disorder Society
Body weight gain rate in patients with Parkinson's disease and deep brain stimulation
Authors: Barichella Michela , Marczewska Agnieszka M. , Mariani Claudio , Landi Andrea , Vairo Antonella , Pezzoli Gianni
Published: November 2003

We evaluated body weight changes in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) after electrode implantation for deep brain stimulation (DBS) in the subthalamic nucleus (STN) in relation to clinical improvement. Thirty PD patients who received STN DBS were included (22 men, 8 women; mean age, 60.0 ± 7.1 years; mean PD duration, 13.5 ± 3.7 years; mean body mass index [BMI], 21.6 ± 3.0 kg/m2). Body weight, physical activity, and Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) scores were noted before and 3 and 12 months after the procedure. Significant weight gain occurred in 29 patients; the mean increase was 14.8 ± 9.8% of initial body weight in 1 year. Of the patients, 46.5% reported weight gain in the first 3 months, 21.4% gradual weight gain in the first 6 months, and 32.1% a slow increase for 1 year. Mean BMI increased up to 24.7 ± 3.7 kg/m2. After 1 year, mean UPDRS motor score improved significantly in off and in on; and therapy complications improved by 91.0 ± 17.0%. BMI changes at 3 and 12 months were significantly correlated to dyskinesia score changes, and levodopa dosage was not. In PD, STN DBS produces not only symptom control, but also weight gain. DBS candidates should be given nutritional counseling before the intervention to prevent rapid and/or excessive weight gain. © 2003 Movement Disorder Society
Theoretical and experimental 13C and 15N NMR investigation of guanylhydrazones in solution
Authors: Martins Tales L. C. , Ramalho Teodorico C. , Figueroa‐Villar José D. , Flores Alex F.C. , Pereira Cláudio M. P.
Published: November 2003

Experimental and theoretical 15N and 13C NMR data for the three nitrobenzaldehyde guanylhydrazones are reported. The theoretical data were obtained using sequential molecular dynamics/quantum mechanics methodology for the calculation of flexible molecules in a condensed phase, followed by the use of the GIAO/DFT method with the 6–311G** basis set. The experimental 15N chemical shifts for the guanylhydrazones are compared with the calculated shifts. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Disturbance attenuation of a class of non‐linear systems via output feedback
Authors: Lin Wei , Qian Chunjiang , Huang Xianqing
Published: November 2003

This paper studies the problem of disturbance attenuation with internal stability via output feedback for a family of non‐linear systems. Using a feedback domination design which substantially differs from the separation principle, we explicitly construct a dynamic output compensator attenuating the disturbance's effect on the output to an arbitrary degree of accuracy in the L2‐gain sense, and achieving global asymptotic stability in the absence of disturbance. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Consistent Decrease in Telomere Length in Parathyroid Tumors but Alteration in Telomerase Activity Limited to Malignancies: Preliminary Report
Authors: Kammori Makoto , Nakamura Ken‐Ichi , Kanauchi Hajime , Obara Takao , Kawahara Masaki , Mimura Yoshikazu , Kaminishi Michio , Takubo Kaiyo
Published: November 2003

Telomerase is known to be activated and telomere length altered in various types of malignant and benign tumors, but whether this is also the case for parathyroid lesions has hitherto been unclear. We therefore investigated telomerase activity and telomere length in 3 parathyroid metastatic cancers, 6 adenomas, 2 cases of parathyroid hyperplasia, and 16 samples of normal parathyroid tissue. Telomerase activity, assayed by the telomeric repeat amplification protocol, was detected in all of the parathyroid cancers (100%), in none of the 8 parathyroid benign lesions, and in only 1 of the 16 normal parathyroid samples (8.3%). Telomere length, determined by the terminal restriction fragment assay, was reduced in the tumor tissues with a mean telomere length of 8.23 ± 0.86 kbp compared with the 12.61 ± 0.81 kbp for the 16 age‐matched subjects (p = 0.002). The results indicate that telomerase activity and telomere length may reflect the biologic behavior of individual parathyroid lesions.
Radio‐guided Surgery for Lymph Node Recurrences of Differentiated Thyroid Cancer
Authors: Salvatori Massimo , Rufini Vittoria , Reale Francesca , Gajate Ana Maria Samanes , Maussier Maria Lodovica , Revelli Luca , Troncone Luigi , Ardito Guglielmo
Published: November 2003

The objectives of this study were to assess the reliability of radioiodine (131I) and a gamma probe for radio‐guided surgery (RGS) to detect and then radically dissect lymph node recurrences (LNRs) in 10 patients with differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC). The major inclusion criterion was the presence of an iodine‐positive LNR after previous total thyroidectomy and at least two ineffective 131I treatments. The protocol was designed as follows. Day 0: all patients were hospitalized and received 3.7 GBq of 131I in the hypothyroid condition. Day 3: presurgery whole‐body scan with a therapeutic dose (TxWBS). Day 5: neck surgery using a gamma probe (Navigator GPS, AutoSuture, Italy), recording the absolute counts and the lesion/background (L/B) counts ratio. Day 7: post‐surgery TxWBS performed using the remaining radioactivity. The presurgery TxWBS was positive in all patients, and the post‐surgery TxWBS showed a negative pattern in 7 of 10 patients, suggesting the efficacy of the surgical procedure in most of the patients. After RGS the mean decrease in the absolute counts and the L/B counts ratio were 77.6% (52.7% minimum, 94.6% maximum) and 77.4% (52.3% minimum, 94.8% maximum), respectively. After operation the surgeon judged the procedure to be decisive in two patients, favorable in six, and irrelevant in two. The final histologic examination showed the presence of 78 lymph node metastases (mean of 8 per patient). There were 33 neoplastic lesions found by both TxWBS and gamma probe evaluations; 41 were shown only by gamma probe, and 4 were negative by both TxWBS and gamma probe evaluations. This protocol permitted us to look for neoplastic foci with high sensitivity and specificity, and we were able to remove lymph node metastases resistant to radioiodine therapy at a single session. The protocol also allowed detection of some additional tumoral foci in sclerotic areas or behind vascular structures that are difficult to identify and were not seen at the presurgery TxWBS evaluation. However, because of the possible false‐negative results, complete excision must be undertaken in high risk patients with a local recurrence to eradicate the largest number of lymph nodes, independent of the counts measured by the gamma probe.
Trends in Incidence and Prevalence of Specialized Intestinal Metaplasia, Barrett’s Esophagus, and Adenocarcinoma of the Gastroesophageal Junction
Authors: Pera Manuel
Published: November 2003

Most available information on the epidemiology of Barrett’s esophagus (BE) relates to patients with long segments (> 3 cm) of specialized intestinal metaplasia (SIM). Its prevalence is 3% in patients undergoing endoscopy for reflux symptoms and 1% in those undergoing endoscopy for any clinical indication. The latter prevalence is similar to the 1% found in autopsy series. A “silent majority” with BE remain unrecognized in the general population. BE is more common in men, and the prevalence rises with age. Recent endoscopic series document a rise in the diagnosis of endoscopically apparent short segments (< 3 cm) of BE (SSBE). The prevalence of SSBE in both unselected and reflux patients is 8% to 12%. Specialized intestinal metaplasia at the cardia, below a normal‐appearing squamocolumnar junction, has been reported to vary from 6% to 25% in patients presenting for upper endoscopy. Unlike patients with long segment Barrett’s esophagus (LSBE), the role of gastroesophageal reflux disease in the pathogenesis of SSBE and SIM of the cardia is controversial. Recent data suggest that the etiology of SIM of the cardia might be secondary to Helicobacter pylori infection, although the role of other environmental factors cannot be ruled out. The incidence of adenocarcinoma of the esophagus and esophagogastric juction (EGJ) has been increasing over the past 15 years in Western countries. Surgical series and population‐based studies show that by 1994 adenocarcinomas of the esophagus accounted for half of all esophageal cancer among white men. LSBE and SSBE predispose to the development of adenocarcinoma of the esophagus and EGJ. The role of SIM of the cardia as a precursor lesion for EGJ adenocarcinoma is still unclear. The prevalences of dysplasia in LSBE and SSBE are around 6% and 8%, respectively. The incidence of adenocarcinoma in patients with LSBE is about 1 in 100 patient‐years. Cancer risk for SSBE and SIM at the cardia is unknown. Smoking and obesity increase the risk for esophageal and EGJ adenocarcinomas.
Surgical Approach to Invasive Adenocarcinoma of the Distal Esophagus (Barrett’s Cancer)
Authors: Siewert J. Rüdiger , Stein Hubert J. , Feith Marcus
Published: November 2003

Barrett’s carcinoma, usually arising in the distal esophagus, must be considered a separate entity from squamous cell esophageal cancer. Epidemiology, etiology, patients’ risk profiles, biology of metastases, and prognosis differ markedly between these two major esophageal tumor types. The preoperative work‐up of patients with Barrett’s cancer is primarily directed toward assessing the chances for R0 resection and estimating the risk of the patient to survive an esophagectomy. If R0 resection appears likely and the surgical risk is acceptable, the indication for an operative approach is given. From the oncologic point of view there is no difference between a radical transmediastinal approach and a transthoracic approach. A possible advantage of a transthoracic approach is the extension of lymphadenectomy to the upper mediastinum. Lymph node metastases in the upper mediastinum, however, usually indicate advanced lymphatic and subclinical systemic tumor dissemination, i.e., a poor prognosis even with extended surgery. Consequently the controversies about the surgical approach are reduced to technical and functional aspects. A better swallowing function argues for an intrathoracic anastomosis; the lower morbidity, for a cervical approach. We prefer transthoracic en bloc esophagectomy with an intrathoracic anastomosis in patients with moderate risk and early tumor stages. In all other patients radical transmediastinal esophagectomy with a cervical anastomosis is the procedure of choice. The overall 5‐year survival rate of more than 40%, which is superior to most published data, supports this therapeutic strategy.
Challenges of Teaching Surgery: Ethical Framework
Authors: Raja Asad J. , Levin Alex V.
Published: November 2003

Surgeons, trainees, and patients may be uncomfortable with the secrecy that surrounds the process of teaching and learning surgical procedures. Well structured training programs use a system of graded responsibility, supervision, and evaluation to ensure skill development and patient safety. Patient outcomes are generally excellent in training institutions. Disclosure of the role of trainees and their contribution to care enhances trust.
Cancer of the Parotid Gland: Role of 7th Nerve Preservation
Authors: Spiro Jeffrey D. , Spiro Ronald H.
Published: November 2003

Most neoplasms arising in the parotid gland are benign. Patients with cancer of the parotid gland usually present with normal facial nerve function. In these patients, findings at the time of surgery will guide the management of the facial nerve, with most surgeons preserving the nerve unless it is adherent to, or imbedded in, a malignant tumor. In cases where the margins of resection are close to the facial nerve, adjuvant radiotherapy administered postoperatively has significantly improved local control of disease. The minority of patients with parotid cancer who present with facial nerve palsy has a poor prognosis despite extensive surgical resection including the facial nerve.
Cardiovascular responsiveness to brief cognitive challenges and pain sensitivity in women
Authors: Vassend Olav , Knardahl Stein
Published: November 2003

The primary purpose of the study was to determine the relationship between cardiovascular (CV) responsiveness to brief cognitive tasks and pain sensitivity in normotensive individuals. Fifty‐eight healthy women without a history of chronic pain were exposed to three laboratory tasks (reading aloud, speech task, and tracking task) and repeated pain testing (electrocutaneous and pressure pain stimulation) while mean arterial pressure (MAP) and heart rate (HR) were continuously recorded. Generally, subjects with higher HR responsiveness to the cognitive tasks displayed a reduced pain sensitivity, particularly to electrocutaneous pain stimulation. Moreover, the two types of pain stimulation seemed to trigger somewhat different CV response patterns. Inclusion of pain‐related CV changes as control variables affected the relationship between HR responsiveness and pain sensitivity, although differently for electrocutaneous and pressure pain. However, inclusion of psychological control variables had no significant effects. Although relatively large CV changes were observed during the experimental tasks, small and insignificant changes in simultaneous or subsequent electrocutaneous pain sensitivity occurred. However, significant increases in pressure pain threshold and tolerance occurred after the speech task, during which MAP level was at its highest. The present findings support the hypothesis that pain sensitivity and CV response share a common mechanism, which, however, is not necessarily linked to either elevated blood pressure levels or other risk factors for hypertension.
Characterization of a γ‐adaptin ear‐binding motif in enthoprotin
Authors: Wasiak Sylwia , Denisov Alexei Yu. , Han Zhaozhong , Leventis Peter A. , de Heuvel Elaine , Boulianne Gabrielle L. , Kay Brian K. , Gehring Kalle , McPherson Peter S.
Published: November 2003

Enthoprotin, a newly identified component of clathrin‐coated vesicles, interacts with the trans‐Golgi network (TGN) clathrin adapters AP‐1 and GGA2. Here we perform a multi‐faceted analysis of the site in enthoprotin that is responsible for the binding to the γ‐adaptin ear (γ‐ear) domain of AP‐1. Alanine scan mutagenesis and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) studies reveal the full extent of the site as well as critical residues for this interaction. NMR studies of the γ‐ear in complex with a synthetic peptide from enthoprotin provide structural details of the binding site for TGN accessory proteins within the γ‐ear.
The distribution and population of Seychelles Black Paradise-flycatcher Terpsiphone corvina on La Digue: implications
for conservation and translocation
Authors: Currie Dave , Bristol Rachel , Millett James , Shah Nirmal Jivan
Published: November 2003

The 10 km2 island of La Digue, Republic of Seychelles, western Indian Ocean supports the last viable population of the Critically Endangered Seychelles Black Paradise-flycatcher Terpsiphone corvina. Small populations recorded on adjacent islands since the 1980s appear to be ephemeral and not self-sustaining. We document the results of the first island-wide survey of the flycatcher on La Digue using the playback of conspecific calls at random points. Previous surveys were based largely on counting the number of singing males. The survey was conducted between April and August 2001 and confirmed (i) the current world population is at least 200 individuals (109-145 territories, 218-290 individuals) in a c. 4.4 km2 range, thus accurately quantifying the documented increase in flycatcher numbers since the late 1970s; (ii) territories were more widely distributed than previously recorded and not exclusively associated with coastal plateaux or freshwater bodies, contrary to previous descriptions; and (iii) distribution was determined largely by the presence of high canopy (native) broad-leaved tree species. The importance of canopy height to flycatchers was highlighted by the fact that localized loss of high canopy (native) forest (4%), in a 161 ha study area on the large western plateau, resulted in an equivalent reduction (4%) in the number of territories. In light of our findings we discuss the implications for conservation of the flycatcher on La Digue and its possible translocation.
A descriptive analysis of PTSD chronicity in Vietnam veterans
Authors: Schnurr Paula P. , Lunney Carole A. , Sengupta Anjana , Waelde Lynn C.
Published: November 2003

This study examined the chronicity of PTSD in 530 male and female Vietnam veterans who were drawn from 2 large, ethnically diverse samples. Delayed onset was common, as was a failure to fully remit: 78% of the 239 veterans with full or partial lifetime PTSD were symptomatic in the 3 months prior to assessment. Cluster analysis identified 4 subtypes of posttraumatic response, with women most likely to be in a delayed onset cluster, and minority men most likely to be in a severe chronic cluster. The extent of chronicity observed in this sample underscores the need for treatments that address the persistence of posttraumatic symptoms.
Handing it on: family constructs, symptoms and choice
Authors: Dallos Rudi , Aldridge David
Published: November 2003

We suggest that pathology exemplifies a form of conscious or unconscious ‘choice’. Each individual's potential choices of action are delineated by a network of shared options representing the family construct system. Over several generations, a tradition of permissible options is transmitted with a reshuffling and some change at each generation. Thus, both ordinary and problematic actions are based on a limited set of options. This view integrates the systemic emphasis on circular processes associated with problems with an explanation of the content or types of pathology that is presented. In a given family, the type of pathology shown is seen to be a result of a choice at a particular time from a permitted set of options. Some implications of such a view for the process of therapy with families are discussed.
On change, catastrophe and therapy
Authors: Simon D. I.
Published: November 2003

Therapists' ideas about the processes of change that occur before, during and after psychotherapy are important to their practice. Discussion and choice are difficult because of the abstract and complex nature of these ideas. Graphic visual aids can be used within a rigorous framework to facilitate their description. Using the construct of ‘family morale’, an example is offered in diagrammatic form to show a model that addresses these macro‐processes and relates them to the theory for brief family therapy practice. This aims to show the flexibility, clarity and impact of the illustrative medium. An advantage is the possibility of bringing the seemingly qualitative ideas into the arena of the potentially quantifiable.
Effects of the one‐way mirror on family therapy
Authors: Persaud Rajendra D.
Published: November 2003

The one‐way screen often used in family therapy is usually a mirror and may have unsuspected effects, ensuring that clients' behaviour in therapy reflects social acceptability and personal values, rather than their usual interactions.
Tourette's syndrome—case report and contribution to the Prata/Masson‐Nunn controversy
Authors: Lumsden Annette , McCune Noel , McGeown John
Published: November 2003

The conflicting views on Tourette's syndrome (TS) and its management in children put forward in the November 1985 issue of Journal of Family Therapy (Nunn, 1985; Prata & Masson, 1985) and the Editorial in the same issue prompt us to report a case. A twelve‐year‐old boy with TS managed on interactional lines snowed changes more modest than those achieved by Prata and Masson, and we address some of the issues raised by Nunn in his critique of their paper.
Cybernetico‐epistobabble, the emperor's new clothes and other sacred cows*
Authors: Laskj Bryan
Published: November 2003

In this paper, I make no pretence at offering a learned argument or scholarly debate. There will be little logic and less reason. There will be no deep philosophical theorizing and certainly no sound solutions. Rather, I challenge some established wisdoms or perhaps duel with windmills.
Concensus Rorschach interaction patterns of families with an asthmatic child
Authors: Wahlström Jarl
Published: November 2003

This paper reports a study of interaction in families with a child suffering from bronchial asthma. Eighteen families, subdivided into two groups according to the severity of the child's illness, were given the Consensus Rorschach following Willi's procedure. Quantitative assessments of family members on cognitive‐affective functioning and social interaction were obtained. Factor analysis of quantitative scores revealed diversified interactional strategies among family member groups. Families as wholes varied as to patterns of cross‐generational alliances and/or domination of different family members and could be clustered into four interactional pattern groups. There was no correlation between this grouping and the severity of the child's illness. Some measures of cognitive‐affective functioning differentiated between family members of asthmatics from the two severity subgroups. The correspondence of these findings to prevailing family theories of psychosomatic illness is discussed.
Family and couples therapy with gay and lesbian clients: acknowledging the forgotten minority
Authors: Ussher Jane M.
Published: November 2003

Family and couples therapy in the main concentrates on heterosexual clients, and has thus been described as limited in its outlook, or discriminatory. It is argued that family and couples therapy is at present not offered to gay and lesbian clients because of an absence of appropriate referrals, the inability of therapists to recognize the sexual orientation of their clients, a belief that skills held by therapists are not appropriate for this client group, or because of the homophobia of the therapist. It is suggested that family and couples therapy should be more readily available for gay and lesbian clients, and a number of different issues which these families might face are discussed. This includes problems associated with the gay adolescent and the gay or lesbian parent, as well as the gay or lesbian couple. It is concluded that established forms of intervention are effective with gay clients, provided that the specific needs and problems of the gay and lesbian community are addressed by the therapist.
Intregrating family therapy into in‐patient paediatric settings: a model
Authors: John Alexandra Mary , Bradford Roger
Published: November 2003

This paper describes the integration of structural family therapy and systemic consultation into an in‐patient paediatric unit. Two case examples illustrate the approach used. It is concluded that six stages are involved in the successful integration of a systemic approach: planning and convening an initial staff meeting, developing a structural hypothesis, enlisting hierarchical support in the ward system, holding the family meeting, reconvening the professional team and disengaging the family and ward system.
Changes of expressed emotion in systemic family therapy
Authors: Vostanis Panos , Burnham John , Harris Queenie
Published: November 2003

This study measured the levels of expressed emotion throughout the course of systemic family therapy‐Videotapes of the first, second and final sessions of therapy were rated for twelve families, by an independent rater who was not involved in the treatment. Six of the therapies were completed before the study began, and six were rated prospectively. Emotional over‐involvement and criticism were found to be significantly reduced from the early stages, while warmth was found to increase later. The findings are discussed in relation to the systemic model.
The poison of racism and the self‐poisoning of adolescents
Authors: Goldberg David , Hodes Matthew
Published: November 2003

This paper describes the effect of racism on families when children reach adolescence. It is suggested that racism may contribute to distortions of the process by which adolescents, especially girls, negotiate increased autonomy. Racism may increase parental protectiveness, which is resisted by adolescent children. Sometimes this may lead to conflict culminating in a crisis in which the adolescent attempts suicide by overdosing. Symbolic aspects of racism, family and individual boundary maintenance and overdosing are discussed. Some implications for the therapy of families who have experienced racism are described.
Integrating ICT in the classroom: a case study of two contrasting lessons
Authors: Goodison Terry
Published: November 2003

A detailed analysis of two contrasting primary school lessons, where ICT plays a dominant role, reveals how it is the teacher's implicit understanding of the principles of teaching and learning for understanding which determines whether the pedagogical potential of the technology is fully realised and the desired lesson outcomes achieved.
Modality and placement of a pedagogical adviser in individual interactive learning
Authors: Dempsey John V. , Eck Richard Van
Published: November 2003

Fifty‐eight graduate students in an education programme took a 40‐minute computer‐based instructional module on introductory statistics with a built‐in solicited guidance mechanism. Students were randomly assigned to programs that used one of four types of advisement: on‐screen digitised video of a human adviser, on‐screen text‐based adviser, pull‐down digitised video of a human adviser or pull‐down text‐based adviser. Results indicated that the on‐screen video‐based adviser condition resulted in higher adviser use than both the text‐based and video‐based pull‐down adviser conditions. Adviser use was significantly correlated with performance during instruction, with time spent during instruction and with television hours watched per week, but not with retention scores. Two non‐significant but suggestive findings were that the video‐based on‐screen advisers were used twice as much as text‐based on‐screen advisers, and active learners used advisement three times as often as passive learners.
Software that assists learning within a complex abstract domain: the use of constraint and consequentiality as learning mechanisms
Authors: Aczel James , Fung Pat , Bornat Richard , Oliver Martin , O'Shea Tim , Sufrin Bernard
Published: November 2003

This paper describes a research project into undergraduates’ use of a software tool to learn symbolic logic—a complex abstract domain that has been shown to be intimidating for students. The software allows the students to manipulate proofs in certain ways and then calculates the consequences of their actions. A research method has been developed that allowed students’ use of this tool to be modelled, and this model was then used to identify, refine and create visual cues that provide support for students’ reasoning. The focus of this paper is the role of the software as an artefact to aid students’ visualisation of reasoning processes rather than the logic itself. The main mechanisms by which this visualisation is supported are the imposition of constraints on the actions available and the demonstration to students of the consequences of their actions. The study shows that the software encouraged experimentation with different routes to a proof, and constituted a challenge to fixated reasoning.
The development, design and delivery of a retail simulation
Authors: Stubbs Mark , Pal John
Published: November 2003

theRetailGame.com is a web‐based package of e‐learning materials designed to support students on retailing courses. It uses the focal point of a ‘store opening’ to draw attention to key operational variables. The web‐based package allows students to explore the impacts of variable combinations in a risk‐free environment. This paper outlines the rationale for developing this new package; explains the design principles underlying its construction; and describes the delivery and assessment mechanisms in which it has been embedded. The case history of the project is reviewed, and actor‐network theory is used to characterise the alignment of requisite time and expertise as a feat of engineering, facilitated by top‐down support but dependent upon the creative manoeuvrings of the bottom‐up enthusiast.
Population structure of the Southeast Asian river catfish Mystus nemurus
Authors: Usmani S. , Tan S. G. , Siraj S. S. , Yusoff K.
Published: November 2003

A total of 143 microsatellites were isolated from Mystus nemurus using a 5′ anchored polymerase chain reaction technique or the random amplified hybridization microsatellite method, the first set of microsatellite markers developed for the Southeast Asian river catfish. Twenty polymorphic microsatellite loci were used as markers for population characterization of M. nemurus from six different geographical locations in Malaysia (Perak, Kedah, Johor, UPM, Sarawak and Terengganu). The number of alleles per locus ranged from 2 to 11 with 6.3 as the average number of alleles per locus. Characterization of the populations showed relatively high levels of genetic variation compared with previous studies using allozyme markers. The highest genetic similarity was found between Perak and Kedah, while the highest genetic distance was found between Terengganu and Kedah. The majority of clustering was in accordance with geographical locations and the histories of the populations. Microsatellite analysis indicated that the Sarawak population might be genetically closer to the Peninsular Malaysian populations than has been previously shown by other molecular marker studies.
Review article: Mohammed, the early medieval Mediterranean, and Charlemagne
Authors: Squatriti Paolo
Published: November 2003

Peregrine Horden and Nicholas Purcell.The Corrupting Sea. A Study in Mediterranean History
Stop codon recognition and interactions with peptide release factor RF3 of truncated and chimeric RF1 and RF2 from Escherichia coli
Authors: Mora Liliana , Zavialov Andrei , Ehrenberg Måns , Buckingham Richard H.
Published: November 2003

Release factors RF1 and RF2 recognize stop codons present at the A‐site of the ribosome and activate hydrolysis of peptidyl‐tRNA to release the peptide chain. Interactions with RF3, a ribosome‐dependent GTPase, then initiate a series of reactions that accelerate the dissociation of RF1 or RF2 and their recycling between ribosomes. Two regions of Escherichia coli RF1 and RF2 were identified previously as involved in stop codon recognition and peptidyl‐tRNA hydrolysis. We show here that removing the N‐terminal domain of RF1 or RF2 or exchanging this domain between the two factors does not affect RF specificity but has different effects on the activity of RF1 and RF2: truncated RF1 remains highly active and able to support rapid cell growth, whereas cells with truncated RF2 grow only poorly. Transplanting a loop of 13 amino acid residues from RF2 to RF1 switches the stop codon specificity. The interaction of the truncated factors with RF3 on the ribosome is defective: they fail to stimulate guanine nucleotide exchange on RF3, recycling is not stimulated by RF3, and nucleotide‐free RF3 fails to stabilize the binding of RF1 or RF2 to the ribosome. However, the N‐terminal domain seems not to be required for the expulsion of RF1 or RF2 by RF3:GTP.
The distribution of RNA polymerase in Escherichia coli is dynamic and sensitive to environmental cues
Authors: Cabrera Julio E. , Jin Ding J.
Published: November 2003

Despite extensive genetic, biochemical and structural studies on Escherichia coli RNA polymerase (RNAP), little is known about its location and distribution in response to environmental changes. To visualize the RNAP by fluorescence microscopy in E. coli under different physiological conditions, we constructed a functional rpoC–gfp gene fusion on the chromosome. We show that, although RNAP is located in the nucleoid and at its periphery, the distribution of RNAP is dynamic and dramatically influenced by cell growth conditions, nutrient starvation and overall transcription activity inside the cell. Moreover, mutational analysis suggests that the stable RNA synthesis plays an important role in nucleoid condensation.
An Arabidopsis thaliana gene for methylsalicylate biosynthesis, identified by a biochemical genomics approach, has a role in defense
Authors: Chen Feng , D'Auria John C. , Tholl Dorothea , Ross Jeannine R. , Gershenzon Jonathan , Noel Joseph P. , Pichersky Eran
Published: November 2003

Emission of methylsalicylate (MeSA), and occasionally of methylbenzoate (MeBA), from Arabidopsis thaliana leaves was detected following the application of some forms of both biotic and abiotic stresses to the plant. Maximal emission of MeSA was observed following alamethicin treatment of leaves. A gene (AtBSMT1) encoding a protein with both benzoic acid (BA) and salicylic acid (SA) carboxyl methyltransferase activities was identified using a biochemical genomics approach. Its ortholog (AlBSMT1) in A. lyrata, a close relative of A. thaliana, was also isolated. The AtBSMT1 protein utilizes SA more efficiently than BA, whereas AlBSMT1 catalyzes the methylation of SA less effectively than that of BA. The AtBSMT1 and AlBSMT1 genes showed expression in leaves under normal growth conditions and were more highly expressed in the flowers. In A. thaliana leaves, the expression of AtBSMT1 was induced by alamethicin, Plutella xylostella herbivory, uprooting, physical wounding, and methyl jasmonate. SA was not an effective inducer. Using a β‐glucuronidase (GUS) reporter approach, the promoter activity of AtBSMT1 was localized to the sepals of flowers, and also to leaf trichomes and hydathodes. Upon thrip damage to leaves, AtBSMT1 promoter activity was induced specifically around the lesions.
FIRST YEAR OF PRACTICE VISITS FOR THE RURAL DEPRESSION ANXIETY RESEARCH AND TREATMENT GENERAL PRACTICE PROGRAM
Authors: Judd Fiona , Cockram Alex , Davis Julian , Fahey Anne , Hodgins Gene , Jackson Henry , Scopelliti Joe
Published: November 2003

Objective: To describe the first 12 months activities of a key component of a General Practice Psychiatry program– the GP practice visit.

Design: Questionnaire to evaluate effects on participating general practitioners practice.

Setting: Rural group general practices.

Subjects: Thirty‐two general practitioners in the Loddon Campaspe Southern Mallee region in Victoria.

Interventions: Practice visits involved a combination of each of three key activities: primary consultation, secondary consultation and/or case discussion and formal teaching.

Results: General practitioners reported a variety of changes in their practice as a result of the visits.

Conclusion: Practice visits appear to be a useful means of influencing GP's practice. Further work is required to determine whether such changes are accompanied by demonstrable benefits in patient outcome.
Phytotoxic activity of root absorbed glyphosate in corn seedlings (Zea mays L.)
Authors: WAGNER RODRIGO , KOGAN MARCELO , PARADA ANA M.
Published: November 2003

Growth chamber experiments were conducted in order to study the absorption, translocation and activity of glyphosate when applied to roots with aqueous solution avoiding any glyphosate–substrate interaction. Corn seedlings at the first leaf stage were set up in individual graduated cylinders containing different solutions of 14C‐glyphosate (0–30 mg ae kg−1). After 26 h of root exposure, plants were transferred to fresh nutrient solution and grown for the next 5 days. After harvest, plants were separated into seed, root, mesocotyle, coleoptile, cotyledon, first leaf and all new leaves (apex), and quantified 14C radioactivity contained in each part. Glyphosate uptake was only 11% of the theoretical mass flow into the plant. The amount of glyphosate translocated from roots was positively correlated with plant uptake (P < 0.01). Total plant fresh weight presented a logistic response to glyphosate amounts, including a growth stimulant effect (hormesis), when plants absorbed less than 0.6 µg. The treated plants presented a normal pattern of glyphosate allocation, with the apex the principal sink, accumulating more than 38% of mobilized glyphosate. When corn plants absorbed more than 0.6 µg they showed a decrease in growth. The relatively high glyphosate quantities allocated in the new leaves showed the relevance of the symplastic pathway in the translocation process for root absorbed glyphosate.
What Use is a Policy Cycle? Plenty, if the Aim is Clear
Authors: Bridgman Peter , Davis Glyn
Published: November 2003

What use is a policy cycle? Plenty, if the aim is to help public servants make sense of the policy task. Setting out a sequence of steps to turn ideas into Cabinet recommendations can provide structure in the otherwise dizzying world of policy‐making. It would be a mistake, though, to see a policy cycle as other than a first step, a guide amid complexity. To read the policy cycle as rationalism revived is to misjudge both form and intent.

Debate is a wonderful thing, and we are pleased the policy cycle described in The Australian Policy Handbook (Bridgman and Davis 2000) has stimulated a response. Although we believe a critique in the June issue of the Australian Journal of Public Administration (Everett 2003) is misguided, it invites reflection on the purpose ‐ and limitations ‐ of a policy cycle approach.
How Desirable is the South Asian Free Trade Area? A Quantitative Economic Assessment
Authors: Bandara Jayatilleke S. , Yu Wusheng
Published: November 2003

The proliferation of preferential trading agreements (PTAs) in different regions of the world has been a significant development over the last two decades. South Asian countries have been slowly moving towards a South Asia Free Trade Area (SAFTA) in recent years. The desirability of SAFTA has been questioned by some observers recently. Will SAFTA create gains for its members or not? Is it better for South Asian countries to promote non‐discriminatory trade liberalisation rather than SAFTA? The main objective of this paper is to address the above questions, especially the desirability of SAFTA, using a global computable general equilibrium (CGE) model. From the existing empirical and theoretical studies, we have identified three viewpoints on the desirability (or viability) of SAFTA: pessimistic, optimistic, and moderate. The results from two policy scenarios (unilateral liberalisation and SAFTA) confirm the pessimistic view by showing that unilateral liberalisation would benefit South Asian countries much more than preferential liberalisation (SAFTA). In fact, under preferential liberalisation, small countries in the region would gain little or even lose. The present political climate in South Asia also seems to support the pessimistic view.
Zandinger!
Authors: Tompson George H. (Jody)
Published: November 2003

Most cases in entrepreneurship address strategic or operating difficulties of recently formed organizations. The case study presented here addresses an organization in its earliest stage of the life cycle: pre start–up. The case is about an entrepreneur who is planning to create a new venture based on a board game invented by his uncle. Accordingly, the case requires students to prioritize the tasks to create a venture from ground zero. The entrepreneur in this case already owns another successful business, has good marketing skills, and has received accolades from an expert in the toy industry. He seems to have a potentially successful product but is uncertain about what to do next. The case presents information for assessing industry structure and competitiveness, manufacturing options, and target marketing.