bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Critical role for granulocyte colony-stimulating factor in inflammatory arthritis
Authors: Lawlor Kate E. , Campbell Ian K. , Metcalf Donald , O'Donnell Kristy , van Nieuwenhuijze Annemarie , Roberts Andrew W. , Wicks Ian P.
Published: July 2004

Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) is a well known regulator of granulopoiesis, but the role of endogenous G-CSF in inflammatory joint disease has not been explored. We studied the response of G-CSF-deficient mice in experimental models of joint inflammation. We show that G-CSF deficiency protects mice from acute and chronic arthritis. Reduced severity was associated with blunted mobilization of granulocytic cells from the bone marrow and less cellular infiltrate and cellular activation in inflamed joints. We also demonstrate that G-CSF blockade in established collagen-induced arthritis in WT mice markedly reduces disease manifestations and is as effective as tumor necrosis factor blockade. Our results reveal a critical role for G-CSF in driving joint inflammation and highlight G-CSF as a potential therapeutic target in inflammatory joint diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis.
Staphylococcal toxin induced preferential and prolongedin vivodeletion of innate-like B lymphocytes
Authors: Goodyear Carl S. , Silverman Gregg J.
Published: July 2004

Contributing to host defenses from the adaptive immune system, splenic marginal zone (MZ) B cells, with their preactivated state and special topographical location, serve essential roles as primary defenders from blood-borne microbes. From studies designed to define the immunologic impact of protein A ofStaphylococcus aureus(SpA), a virulence factor with targeted B cell antigen receptor-binding properties, we found that within minutes ofin vivoexposure, SpA became surface associated with B lymphocytes and induced trafficking. Within several hours, MZ were completely effaced of affected B cells. This was rapidly followed by massive B cell apoptosis, with accelerated preferential deletion of targeted MZ B cells and impaired responsiveness to T independent immunogens. Subsequently, the temporal recovery of MZ B cells was significantly delayed compared to peripheral follicular B cells (B-2 cells). These studies elucidate the cellular program induced by a natural toxin that is shown to be highly efficient at depleting innate-like B cells important for defense from systemic infection.
Nitrate assimilation in plant shoots depends on photorespiration
Authors: Rachmilevitch Shimon , Cousins Asaph B. , Bloom Arnold J.
Published: July 2004

Photorespiration, a process that diminishes net photosynthesis by ≈25% in most plants, has been viewed as the unfavorable consequence of plants having evolved when the atmosphere contained much higher levels of carbon dioxide than it does today. Here we used two independent methods to show that exposure ofArabidopsisand wheat shoots to conditions that inhibited photorespiration also strongly inhibited nitrate assimilation. Thus, nitrate assimilation in both dicotyledonous and monocotyledonous species depends on photorespiration. This previously undescribed role for photorespiration (i) explains several responses of plants to rising carbon dioxide concentrations, including the inability of many plants to sustain rapid growth under elevated levels of carbon dioxide; and (ii) raises concerns about genetic manipulations to diminish photorespiration in crops.
RNA dynamics in live
Escherichia coli
cells
Authors: Golding Ido , Cox Edward C.
Published: July 2004

We describe a method for tracking RNA molecules in
Escherichia coli
that is sensitive to single copies of mRNA, and, using the method, we find that individual molecules can be followed for many hours in living cells. We observe distinct characteristic dynamics of RNA molecules, all consistent with the known life history of RNA in prokaryotes: localized motion consistent with the Brownian motion of an RNA polymer tethered to its template DNA, free diffusion, and a few examples of polymer chain dynamics that appear to be a combination of chain fluctuation and chain elongation attributable to RNA transcription. We also quantify some of the dynamics, such as width of the displacement distribution, diffusion coefficient, chain elongation rate, and distribution of molecule numbers, and compare them with known biophysical parameters of the
E. coli
system.
Low‐Intensity Magnetic Separation: Principal Stages of a Separator Development – What is the Next Step?
Authors: Bikbov M. A. , Karmazin V. V. , Bikbov A. A.
Published: July 2004

An analysis of the technological limitations of magnetite quartzite beneficiation illustrated the imperfections of the traditional classification by size. As an alternative to size classification, separation by the degree of magnetite grain liberation can be employed. Comparative analysis of the mineral phase properties of the magnetic separation feed and its magnetic product has confirmed that wet drum magnetic separators currently used for wet treatment of magnetite ores have a low selectivity of separation. The removal of inter‐grown particles into a separate product to enable more efficient and selective disintegration is expected to offer significant energy saving. A new‐generation selective separator has been developed and a pilot model built; test results are promising. Grain selection by different degrees of mineral liberation is possible when the wet method is utilized. Magnetic selection allows for substantial benefits to be made through process optimization, including: (1) energy savings in the grinding process; (2) reduction of losses arising from over‐ground magnetite in the operational tailings; (3) increased grain size; (4) avoidance of over‐grinding; and (5) filtration and pelletization improvements.
Activation of Cdc42 by trans interactions of the cell adhesion molecules nectins through c-Src and Cdc42-GEF FRG
Authors: Fukuhara Tatsuro , Shimizu Kazuya , Kawakatsu Tomomi , Fukuyama Taihei , Minami Yukiko , Honda Tomoyuki , Hoshino Takashi , Yamada Tomohiro , Ogita Hisakazu , Okada Masato , Takai Yoshimi
Published: July 2004

Nectins, Ca2+-independent immunoglobulin-like cell–cell adhesion molecules, initiate cell–cell adhesion by their trans interactions and recruit cadherins to cooperatively form adherens junctions (AJs). In addition, the trans interactions of nectins induce the activation of Cdc42 and Rac small G proteins, which increases the velocity of the formation of AJs. We examined here how nectins induce the activation of Cdc42 in MDCK epithelial cells and L fibroblasts. Nectins recruited and activated c-Src at the nectin-based cell–cell adhesion sites. FRG, a GDP/GTP exchange factor specific for Cdc42, was then recruited there, tyrosine phosphorylated by c-Src, and activated, causing an increase in the GTP-bound active form of Cdc42. Inhibition of the nectin-induced activation of c-Src suppressed the nectin-induced activation of FRG and Cdc42. Inhibition of the nectin-induced activation of FRG or depletion of FRG by RNA interference suppressed the nectin-induced activation of Cdc42. These results indicate that nectins induce the activation of Cdc42 through c-Src and FRG locally at the nectin-based cell–cell adhesion sites.
CD25+CD4+ Regulatory T Cells from the Peripheral Blood of Asymptomatic HIV-infected Individuals Regulate CD4+ and CD8+ HIV-specific T Cell Immune Responses In Vitro and Are Associated with Favorable Clinical Markers of Disease Status
Authors: Kinter Audrey L. , Hennessey Margaret , Bell Alicia , Kern Sarah , Lin Yin , Daucher Marybeth , Planta Maria , McGlaughlin Mary , Jackson Robert , Ziegler Steven F. , Fauci Anthony S.
Published: July 2004

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) disease is associated with loss of CD4+ T cells, chronic immune activation, and progressive immune dysfunction. HIV-specific responses, particularly those of CD4+ T cells, become impaired early after infection, before the loss of responses directed against other antigens; the basis for this diminution has not been elucidated fully. The potential role of CD25+CD4+ regulatory T cells (T reg cells), previously shown to inhibit immune responses directed against numerous pathogens, as suppressors of HIV-specific T cell responses was investigated. In the majority of healthy HIV-infected individuals, CD25+CD4+ T cells significantly suppressed cellular proliferation and cytokine production by CD4+ and CD8+ T cells in response to HIV antigens/peptides in vitro; these effects were cell contact dependent and IL-10 and TGF-β independent. Individuals with strong HIV-specific CD25+ T reg cell function in vitro had significantly lower levels of plasma viremia and higher CD4+: CD8+ T cell ratios than did those individuals in whom this activity could not be detected. These in vitro data suggest that CD25+CD4+ T reg cells may contribute to the diminution of HIV-specific T cell immune responses in vivo in the early stages of HIV disease.
Compromised Function of Regulatory T Cells in Rheumatoid Arthritis and Reversal by Anti-TNFα Therapy
Authors: Ehrenstein Michael R. , Evans Jamie G. , Singh Animesh , Moore Samantha , Warnes Gary , Isenberg David A. , Mauri Claudia
Published: July 2004

Regulatory T cells have been clearly implicated in the control of disease in murine models of autoimmunity. The paucity of data regarding the role of these lymphocytes in human autoimmune disease has prompted us to examine their function in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Regulatory (CD4+CD25+) T cells isolated from patients with active RA displayed an anergic phenotype upon stimulation with anti-CD3 and anti-CD28 antibodies, and suppressed the proliferation of effector T cells in vitro. However, they were unable to suppress proinflammatory cytokine secretion from activated T cells and monocytes, or to convey a suppressive phenotype to effector CD4+CD25− T cells. Treatment with antitumor necrosis factor α (TNFα; Infliximab) restored the capacity of regulatory T cells to inhibit cytokine production and to convey a suppressive phenotype to “conventional” T cells. Furthermore, anti-TNFα treatment led to a significant rise in the number of peripheral blood regulatory T cells in RA patients responding to this treatment, which correlated with a reduction in C reactive protein. These data are the first to demonstrate that regulatory T cells are functionally compromised in RA, and indicate that modulation of regulatory T cells by anti-TNFα therapy may be a further mechanism by which this disease is ameliorated.
RIP Links TLR4 to Akt and Is Essential for Cell Survival in Response to LPS Stimulation
Authors: Vivarelli Marina S. , McDonald Douglas , Miller Mendy , Cusson Nicole , Kelliher Michelle , Geha Raif S.
Published: July 2004

Receptor-interacting protein (RIP) has been reported to associate with tumor necrosis–associated factor (TRAF)2 and TRAF6. Since TRAF2 and TRAF6 play important roles in CD40 signaling and TRAF6 plays an important role in TLR4 signaling, we examined the role of RIP in signaling via CD40 and TLR4. Splenocytes from RIP−/− mice proliferated and underwent isotype switching normally in response to anti-CD40–IL-4 but completely failed to do so in response to LPS–IL-4. However, they normally up-regulated TNF-α and IL-6 gene expression and CD54 and CD86 surface expression after LPS stimulation. RIP−/− splenocytes exhibited increased apoptosis and impaired Akt phosphorylation after LPS stimulation. These results suggest that RIP is essential for cell survival after TLR4 signaling and links TLR4 to the phosphatidylinositol 3 kinase–Akt pathway.
Suppressor T Cells in Human Diseases
Authors: Baecher-Allan Clare , Hafler David A.
Published: July 2004

Although central and peripheral tolerance are important for the regulation of human immune responses to self- and microbial antigens, an important role of suppressor CD4+ CD25+ T cells is suggested from the recent investigations of human autoimmune diseases and HIV. These new data provide increasing evidence that altered function of CD4+ CD25+ T cells may be an important factor in a wide range of human inflammatory and infectious diseases.
The JigCell Model Builder and Run Manager
Authors: Vass Marc , Allen Nicholas , Shaffer Clifford A. , Ramakrishnan Naren , Watson Layne T. , Tyson John J.
Published: July 2004

Summary: We describe the JigCell Model Builder (JCMB), a tool for creating biochemical reaction network models. JCMB is designed for ease of use and its interface uses the standard spreadsheet metaphor. The JigCell Run Manager (JCRM) is a tool for organizing the large collections of simulation runs typically required by reaction network modeling activities.

Availability: JCMB and JCRM are part of the JigCell suite available at http://jigcell.biol.vt.edu
Data exploration tools for the Gene Ontology database
Authors: Shoop Elizabeth , Casaes Paulo , Onsongo Getiria , Lesnett Lisa , Petursdottir Erla Osk , Donkor Edward Kofi Yeboah , Tkach Dennis , Cosimini Michael
Published: July 2004

Motivation: To improve the ability of biologists (both researchers and students) to ask biologically interesting questions of the Gene Ontology (GO) database and to explore the ontologies by seeing large portions of the ontology graphs in context, along with details of individual terms in the ontologies.

Results: GoGet and GoView are two new tools built as part of an extensible web application system based on Java 2 Enterprise Edition technology. GoGet has a user interface that enables users to ask biologically interesting questions, such as (1) What are the DNA binding proteins involved in DNA repair, but not in DNA replication? and (2) Of the terms containing the word triphosphatase, which have associated gene products from mouse, but not fruit fly? The results of such queries can be viewed in a collapsed tabular format that eases the burden of getting through large tables of data. GoView enables users to explore the large directed acyclic graph structure of the ontologies in the GO database. The two tools are coordinated, so that results from queries in GoGet can be visualized in GoView in the ontology in which they appear, and explorations started from GoView can request details of gene product associations to appear in a result table in GoGet.

Availability: Free access to the GoGet query tool and free download of the GoView ontology viewer are provided to all users at http://db.math.macalester.edu/goproject. In addition, source code for the GoView tool is also available from this site, along with a user manual for both tools.
A probabilistic measure for alignment-free sequence comparison
Authors: Pham Tuan D. , Zuegg Johannes
Published: July 2004

Motivation: Alignment-free sequence comparison methods are still in the early stages of development compared to those of alignment-based sequence analysis. In this paper, we introduce a probabilistic measure of similarity between two biological sequences without alignment. The method is based on the concept of comparing the similarity/dissimilarity between two constructed Markov models.

Results: The method was tested against six DNA sequences, which are the thrA, thrB and thrC genes of the threonine operons from Escherichia coli K-12 and from Shigella flexneri; and one random sequence having the same base composition as thrA from E.coli. These results were compared with those obtained from CLUSTAL W algorithm (alignment-based) and the chaos game representation (alignment-free). The method was further tested against a more complex set of 40 DNA sequences and compared with other existing sequence similarity measures (alignment-free).

Availability: All datasets and computer codes written in MATLAB are available upon request from the first author.
ViTO: tool for refinement of protein sequence–structure alignments
Authors: Catherinot Vincent , Labesse Gilles
Published: July 2004

Summary: ViTO is a graphical application, including an editor, of multiple sequence alignment and a three-dimensional (3D) structure viewer. It is possible to manipulate alignments containing hundreds of sequences and to display a dozen structures. ViTO can handle so-called ‘multiparts’ alignments to allow the visualization of complex structures (multi-chain proteins and/or small molecules and DNA) and the editing of the corresponding alignment. The 3D viewer and the alignment editor are connected together allowing rapid refinement of sequence–structure alignment by taking advantage of the immediate visualization of resulting insertions/deletions and strict conservations in their structural context. More generally, it allows the mapping of informations about the sequence conservation extracted from the alignment onto the 3D structures in a dynamic way. ViTO is also connected to two comparative modelling programs, SCWRL and MODELLER.

These features make ViTO a powerful tool to characterize protein families and to optimize the alignments for comparative modelling.

Availability:  http://bioserv.cbs.cnrs.fr/VITO/DOC/

Supplementary information:  http://bioserv.cbs.cnrs.fr/VITO/DOC/index.html
Systematic analysis of snake neurotoxins' functional classification using a data warehousing approach
Authors: Siew Joyce Phui Yee , Khan Asif M. , Tan Paul T. J. , Koh Judice L. Y. , Seah Seng Hong , Koo Chuay Yeng , Chai Siaw Ching , Armugam Arunmozhiarasi , Brusic Vladimir , Jeyaseelan Kandiah
Published: July 2004

Motivation: Sequence annotations, functional and structural data on snake venom neurotoxins (svNTXs) are scattered across multiple databases and literature sources. Sequence annotations and structural data are available in the public molecular databases, while functional data are almost exclusively available in the published articles. There is a need for a specialized svNTXs database that contains NTX entries, which are organized, well annotated and classified in a systematic manner.

Results: We have systematically analyzed svNTXs and classified them using structure–function groups based on their structural, functional and phylogenetic properties. Using conserved motifs in each phylogenetic group, we built an intelligent module for the prediction of structural and functional properties of unknown NTXs. We also developed an annotation tool to aid the functional prediction of newly identified NTXs as an additional resource for the venom research community.

Availability: We created a searchable online database of NTX proteins sequences (http://research.i2r.a-star.edu.sg/Templar/DB/snake_neurotoxin). This database can also be found under Swiss-Prot Toxin Annotation Project website (http://www.expasy.org/sprot/)
PCOAT: positional correlation analysis using multiple methods
Authors: Qi Yuan , Grishin Nick V.
Published: July 2004

Summary: PCOAT (Positional COrrelation Analysis Tool) is a program to perform positional correlation analysis for protein multiple sequence alignment in order to identify structurally or functionally important interactions between positions in a protein family. We implement different statistical methods to detect highly correlated position pairs, amino acid pairs, individual positions and networks of correlated positions, and utilize multiple sequence weighting and sampling methods to eliminate background correlations caused by phylogeny and stochastic events. Our program runs relatively fast and is suitable for analyzing alignments containing large number of sequences.

Availability:  ftp://iole.swmed.edu/pub/PCOAT/

Supplementary information: The PCOAT ftp site contains a detailed description of the program, and the results of PCOAT analysis on C2H2 alignment and ACT domain alignment.
The Transglabellar Subcranial Approach for Nasal Dermoids with Intracranial Extension
Authors: Kellman Robert M. , Goyal Parul , Rodziewicz Gerard S.
Published: July 2004

Objectives/Hypothesis:Nasal dermoids are the most common congenital midline nasal lesions. When a midline nasal pit or cyst is identified, scans should be obtained to look for an intracranial connection. The intracranial portion of the lesions has traditionally been approached by the performance of a frontal craniotomy. The transglabellar subcranial approach is a useful technique to resect these lesions and offers several advantages over a traditional craniotomy approach.

Study Design:Retrospective case review.

Methods:Records of two patients who underwent excision of nasal dermoids by way of a subcranial approach were analyzed.

Results:Two patients underwent successful resection of nasal dermoids with intracranial extension by way of a subcranial approach. The patients were 13 months and 19 months old at the time of excision and have been followed for 7 years and 6 years, respectively. There has not been any recurrence of the lesions. There has been no apparent negative impact on facial growth in either of these cases.

Conclusions:The subcranial approach is an effective technique for the resection of nasal dermoids with intracranial extension. These lesions have traditionally been managed with lateral rhinotomy, midface degloving, or external rhinoplasty approaches combined with a frontal craniotomy. The subcranial approach offers excellent exposure, minimizes frontal lobe retraction, reduces the likelihood of cerebrospinal fluid leak, and provides for excellent cosmetic result. This approach was used in two cases with long‐term follow‐up. The lesions were successfully resected in both cases. Long‐term follow‐up has shown no recurrence or negative effect on craniofacial growth.
The Status of the Contralateral Ear in Established Unilateral Menière's Disease
Authors: Perez Ronen , Chen Joseph M. , Nedzelski Julian M.
Published: July 2004

Objectives/Hypothesis:To determine the incidence of measurable audiometric changes in the contralateral ear and clinical bilateral Menière's disease in individuals with longstanding established unilateral Menière's disease.

Study Design:Analysis of data in an ongoing prospective study.

Methods:One hundred and one patients who were treated with intratympanic gentamicin installation for disabling unilateral Menière's disease were followed up for a minimum of 2 years. The mean follow‐up time between the initial diagnosis to the last audiogram conducted was 12 ± 7 (range 2–45) years, and the mean follow‐up between the first and last audiograms conducted in our clinic was 5 ± 3 (range 2–15) years. The incidence of Menière's disease (clinical diagnosis) as compared with audiometric changes in the contralateral ear was analyzed.

Results:Compared with several published reports, the development of bilateral Menière's disease in our series within the described observation period was much lower (5%). The incidence of contralateral isolated hearing loss in the low frequencies was 16% (average threshold of .25 and .5 kHz of 25 dB or more). The time interval between the initial diagnosis and the onset of contralateral findings ranged from 0 to 26 years.

Conclusion:In our experience, individuals with disabling longstanding unilateral disease are not likely to develop bilateral disease. However, a small but significant percentage of patients have audiometric changes in the low frequencies of the contralateral ear (.25, .5 kHz).
The Utility of Routine Chest Radiography Following Jet Ventilation in Elective Laryngotracheal Surgery
Authors: Merati Albert L. , Sale Keith A. , Toohill Robert J.
Published: July 2004

Objectives/Hypothesis: Jet ventilation is a useful mode of airway management for laryngotracheal surgery. The objective of this study is to evaluate the utility of routine chest radiography following jet ventilation for these cases.

Study Design: Retrospective chart review.

Methods: Thirty‐four elective surgical procedures performed from 1998 to 2002 are reviewed for postoperative airway and pulmonary complications. Data were collected from clinical notes as well as from the results of chest radiographs. This included the need for tracheotomy, reintubation, pneumothorax, pneumomediastinum, and atelectasis.

Results: A retrospective chart examination revealed no major complications. Twenty‐nine of the 34 cases had postoperative chest radiography (CXR) performed on a routine basis. Atelectasis was present in 12 of 29 CXR (41%); no intervention was required in these cases.

Conclusions: Routine postoperative CXR may not be useful following jet ventilation for elective laryngotracheal surgery. The safety of jet ventilation is discussed.
Surgical Outcomes in Patients with Endolymphatic Sac Tumors
Authors: Hansen Marlan R. , Luxford William M.
Published: July 2004

Objective: To determine the surgical outcomes in patients with endolymphatic sac tumors (ELSTs).

Study Design: Retrospective review of patients at a referral‐based otology–neurotology practice.

Methods: A review of the records from the House Ear Clinic revealed 16 patients treated for ELSTs from 1971 to 2002. This article reports the treatment outcomes for the 14 patients for whom clinical data were available.

Results: Sensorineural hearing loss, tinnitus, and dizziness were the most common presenting signs and symptoms. Six patients presented with facial weakness, and three patients had symptoms characteristic of Menière's syndrome. One patient suffered from Von Hippel‐Lindau disease. Patients underwent microsurgical removal and were followed for an average of 59.6 months. Patients that presented with normal facial function maintained excellent postoperative function, and hearing was preserved in two patients with small tumors. Two patients suffered persistent, progressive disease despite multiple attempts at microsurgical removal and radiotherapy. Both had incomplete resections of their initial tumors. A third patient developed a small recurrent tumor that was successfully managed by a second attempt at microsurgical removal.

Conclusions: Taken together with other reports, these results suggest that ELSTs are best managed by complete surgical resection. This can generally be accomplished with minimal additional morbidity.
Unbiased Quantification of the Microdissected Human Scarpa's Ganglion Neurons
Authors: Ishiyama Akira , Lopez Ivan , Ishiyama Gail , Tang Yong
Published: July 2004

Objective: The objective of the present study was to obtain unbiased estimates of the total number of Scarpa's vestibular ganglion neurons in individuals with normal vestibular function.

Study Design: Application of unbiased stereology using microdissected human temporal bone specimens.

Methods: Postmortem temporal bones were obtained from five young subjects with no history of audiovestibular disease (age range 42–49 years). The vestibular nerve containing the Scarpa's ganglion was microdissected, embedded in paraffin, and cut into 40 μm serial sections. Unbiased estimates of the total number of neurons were obtained using the optical fractionator technique of stereology.

Results: An average of 23,599 (coefficient of variation [CV] = 0.11) vestibular ganglion neurons was obtained. There was no significant difference between the results obtained from the microdissected specimens and results that had been obtained from an age‐matched group derived from a previously published report from our laboratory using archival human temporal bone specimens.

Conclusions: This study represents the first report to demonstrate the combination of the microdissection technique and the unbiased stereologic technique in the human temporal bone. This study demonstrates the reliability of the microdissection technique as an alternative method of human temporal bone processing for unbiased stereology. The utility of the microdissection technique is that specimens can be used for quantification, immunohistochemistry, and other powerful applications.
Role of Cytomegalovirus, Epstein‐Barr Virus, and Human Herpes Virus‐8 in Benign Lymphoepithelial Cysts of the Parotid Gland
Authors: Yen Thomas L. , Murr Andrew H. , Rabin Joseph , Mhatre Anand N. , Lalwani Anil K.
Published: July 2004

Objective: To provide background and evaluate the role of herpesviruses in benign lymphoepithelial cysts (BLC) of the parotid gland.

Study Design: Case series derived from review of pathology specimens.

Methods: Radiolabeled polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis was used to detect for the presence of cytomegalovirus (CMV), Epstein‐Barr virus (EBV), and human herpes virus 8 (HHV‐8) DNA sequences in 14 paraffin embedded specimens and 1 freshly aspirated BLC specimen. Thirteen normal parotid tissue specimens obtained from paraffin embedded blocks were used as a control group.

Results: CMV was detected with nearly equal frequency between the two groups (23% of normal vs. 20% in BLC). HHV‐8 was found in 13% of the BLC group and in none of the normal group (P = .4841). There was significant difference in EBV detection between the normal (0%) and the BLC (33%) groups (P = .0437).

Conclusion: CMV and HHV‐8 does not appear to be associated with BLCs. Although EBV is found more frequently in BLC than in normal parotid controls, further studies are needed to elucidate the role of this virus in BLC pathogenesis.
Temporary Intermaxillary Fixation using Individualized Acrylic Splints Permits Image–Data‐Based Surgery of the Lower Jaw and Oropharynx
Authors: Hoffmann Jürgen , Troitzsch Dirk , Westendorff Carsten , Weinhold Octavio , Reinert Siegmar
Published: July 2004

Objectives/Hypothesis: Image–data‐based surgical navigation is used as a helpful device in the operating room to localize critical structures with a high degree of accuracy. It also enables physicians to plan therapeutic performance. Because it relies on preoperatively acquired computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) data, there is restricted access for navigation of surgical instruments in areas that show motion uncorrelated with radiologic data. Thus, in the case of moveable structures, for example the lower jaw, navigational procedures could not yet be applied.

Study Design: We introduce a new technique using individualized intermaxillary splints that fix the mandible in a reproducible aboccluded position at the time of image‐data acquisition and surgery.

Methods: Different manufacturing processes were investigated. The feasibility of uni‐ and bilateral intermaxillary splints was studied under clinical conditions in four patients during different procedures in the mandibular and oropharyngeal regions.

Results: The manufacturing of the splints showed was easily performed in a short time. With bilateral fixation, there was a high anatomic target precision of 1.6 to 2.3 mm.

Conclusions: The use of bilateral intermaxillary splints that fix the patient's mandible in a reproducible aboccluded position permits an image–data‐based navigated surgical approach to the oropharyngeal and mandibular regions.
Trichomonas vaginalis‐induced apoptosis in RAW264·7 cells is regulated through Bcl‐xL, but not Bcl‐2
Authors: Chang J.‐H. , Ryang Y.‐S. , Kim S.‐K. , Park J.‐Y.
Published: July 2004

The purpose of this study was to determine whether anti‐apoptotic proteins of the Bcl‐2 family such as Bcl‐2 and Bcl‐x

L

, proteins that confer resistance to apoptotic death from some stimuli, block apoptotic cell death in RAW264·7 cells upon treatment with Trichomonas vaginalis. In this study, the expression level of Bcl‐2 was unchanged throughout the course of apoptotic cell death, and overexpressed Bcl‐2 did not prevent release of cytochrome c, the significant change of the membrane potential, activation of caspases, and PARP cleavage in T. vaginalis‐treated RAW264·7 cells. On the other hand, Bcl‐xLexpression was decreased after T. vaginalis treatment accompanied with Bax activation. Furthermore, we showed that release of mitochondrial cytochrome c, cleavage of caspase‐9 and PARP during apoptosis in T. vaginalis‐treated RAW264·7 cells were considerably diminished by transfection with overexpressed Bcl‐xL, and overexpressed Bcl‐xLcould inhibit T. vaginalis‐induced apoptosis in RAW264·7 cells. In addition, interestingly, pre‐treatment with caspase inhibitors, Boc‐D‐FMK and Z‐DEVD‐FMK, significantly abolished T. vaginalis‐induced down‐regulation of Bcl‐xL, suggesting that caspase‐3 may play a pivotal role in the process of apoptosis as well as the down‐regulation of Bcl‐xLby T. vaginalis. Therefore, these results suggest that T. vaginalis‐induced apoptosis in RAW264·7 cells can occur via a Bcl‐xL‐dependent apoptotic mechanism.
Epidemiology of insect‐transmitted plant viruses: modelling disease dynamics and control interventions
Authors: Jeger M. J. , Holt J. , Van Den Bosch F. , Madden L. V.
Published: July 2004

Abstract.  Plant viruses are an important constraint to crop production world‐wide. Rarely have plant virologists, vector entomologists and crop specialists worked together in search of sustainable management practices for viral diseases. Historically, modelling approaches have been vector‐based dealing with empirical forecasting systems or simulation of vector population dynamics. More recently, epidemiological models, such as those used in human/animal epidemiology, have been introduced in an attempt to characterize and analyse the population ecology of viral diseases. The theoretical bases for these models and their use in evaluating control strategies in terms of the interactions between host, virus and vector are considered here. Vector activity and behaviour, especially in relation to virus transmission, are important determinants of the rate and extent of epidemic development. The applicability and flexibility of these models are illustrated by reference to specific case studies, including the increasing importance of whitefly‐transmitted viruses. Some outstanding research and methodological issues are considered.
Regulation of expression of genes encoding digestive proteases in the gut of a polyphagous lepidopteran larva in response to dietary protease inhibitors
Authors: Bown David P. , Wilkinson Hillary S. , Gatehouse John A.
Published: July 2004

Abstract.  Larvae of Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner), a polyphagous lepidopteran crop pest, adapt to the presence of protease inhibitors in their diet by differential regulation of multiple genes encoding digestive proteases. The time‐course of their response to dietary soybean Kunitz trypsin inhibitor (SKTI) involves several stages; an initial up‐regulation of all protease genes assayed (up to 12 h after exposure to inhibitor) is succeeded by a longer‐term down‐regulation of expression of specific genes that encode proteases most sensitive to the inhibitor, whereas genes encoding putative inhibitor‐insensitive proteases continue to be up‐regulated (after 24 h of exposure). Consequently, insect protease activity changes from being sensitive to the inhibitor, to being largely insensitive. The insect response is comparable in its timescale with that of the synthesis of protease inhibitors in the plant wounding response. SKTl causes similar effects on protease gene expression and gut protease activity when fed in diets containing casein or hydrolysed casein as sources of amino acid, suggesting that the insect response is not mediated through inhibition of digestive proteolysis. Soybean Bowman–Birk inhibitor, which has a broader range of inhibitory activity against gut proteases in H. armigera, but is a less effective inhibitor on an I50 basis, proves to be a more effective antimetabolite than SKTI, but does not induce inhibitor‐insensitive protease activity because it causes a general up‐regulation of protease‐encoding genes. A possible mechanism to account for these different responses is discussed.
Mapping members of the Anopheles gambiae complex using climate data
Authors: Lindsay S. W. , Bayoh M. N.
Published: July 2004

Abstract.  Climate is the most important factor governing the distribution of insects over large areas. Warmth and moisture are essential for most insects' reproduction, development and survival. Here, it is shown that the principal vectors of malaria in Africa, members of the Anopheles gambiae complex, flourish within specific climate envelopes. By identifying these climatic conditions empirically, using climate or environmental databases, it is possible to map the distribution and relative abundance of mosquito species, and their chromosomal forms, at continental scales. Alternatively, mathematical models based on a fundamental understanding of how mosquitoes are affected by different climate factors, such as temperature and humidity, can also be employed to map distributions. Empirical or process‐driven models based on climate, or other environmental variables, provide simple tools for mapping the distribution and relative abundance of vectors at a coarse scale over large areas.
New Concepts in Evolutionary Search for Boolean Functions in Cryptology
Authors: Millan William , Fuller Joanne , Dawson Ed
Published: July 2004

In symmetric cryptology the resistance to attacks depends critically on the nonlinearity properties of the Boolean functions describing cipher components like Substitution boxes (S‐boxes). Some of the most effective methods known to generate functions that satisfy multiple criteria are based on evolutionary heuristics. In this paper, we improve on these algorithms by employing an adaptive strategy. Additionally, using recent improvements in the understanding of these combinatorial structures, we discover essential properties of the graph formed by affine equivalence classes of Boolean functions, which offers several advantages as a conceptual model for multiobjective seeking evolutionary heuristics. Finally, we propose the first major global cooperative effort to discover new bounds for cryptographic properties of Boolean functions.
Design of Montgomery Multiplication Architecture Based on Programmable Cellular Automata
Authors: Jeon Jun‐Cheol , Yoo Kee‐Young
Published: July 2004

This study presents a Montgomery multiplication architecture that uses an irreducible all one polynomial (AOP) in GF(2m) based on a programmable cellular automata (PCA). The proposed architecture has the advantage of high regularity and a reduced latency based on combining the characteristics of the irreducible AOP and PCA. The proposed architecture can be used to implement modular exponentiation, division, and inversion architectures.
Power over past and future: Abbess Emma and the nunnery of Sant Joan de les Abadesses
Authors: Jarrett Jonathan
Published: July 2004

Abbess Emma of Sant Joan de les Abadesses, post‐Visigothic Catalonia's first known nunnery, left a sufficient documentary record to permit in‐depth study of her method of rule, which included taking her comital brothers to court for her rights. Closer study of these acts suggests that her rule was part of a family strategy, whose change by a younger generation was to undo many of her efforts to secure Sant Joan's independence. Her rule included not only aggressive territorial aggrandizement but the reshaping of the locality's history in a way which has endured until this day.
Do Hebrew electronic books differ from Dutch electronic books? A replication of a Dutch content analysis
Authors: Korat Ofra , Shamir Adina
Published: July 2004

Abstract
This replication study of Hebrew versus Dutch electronic books for young children was based on De Jong & Bus's content analysis, which explored whether e‐books are appropriate supports for young children's literacy development. Our criteria for analysing 43 Hebrew e‐books for young children included book processing, multimedia in pictures, multimedia connected to printed or spoken text, interactivity of pictures, interactive legibility, printed text quality, and congruence to story content. Like Dutch e‐books, currently available, Hebrew e‐books have no uniform components design and are unsatisfactory supports for children's literacy. Although most Hebrew e‐books did not include hidden hot‐spots that could be activated, when included, their congruence with the storyline was good. Recommendations for CD e‐storybook designers and practical implications for educators are discussed.
The theory of planned behaviour applied to search engines as a learning tool
Authors: Liaw Shu‐Sheng
Published: July 2004

Abstract
Search engines have been developed for helping learners to seek online information. Based on theory of planned behaviour approach, this research intends to investigate the behaviour of using search engines as a learning tool. After factor analysis, the results suggest that perceived satisfaction of search engine, search engines as an information retrieval tool, and sharing search experience and information are three significant factors to affect individual behavioural intention to use search engines as a learning tool. In addition, the research elaborates that individual Internet and search engine experiences will affect these three factors. Moreover, the result also offers evidence that today's computers are popular for the application of communication and information retrieval.
Enhancing SCORM metadata for assessment authoring in e‐Learning
Authors: Chang Wen‐Chih , Hsu Hui‐Huang , Smith Timothy K. , Wang Chun‐Chia
Published: July 2004

Abstract
With the rapid development of distance learning and the XML technology, metadata play an important role in e‐Learning. Nowadays, many distance learning standards, such as SCORM, AICC CMI, IEEE LTSC LOM and IMS, use metadata to tag learning materials. However, most metadata models are used to define learning materials and test problems. Few metadata models are dedicated to assessment. In this paper, the authors propose an assessment metadata model for e‐Learning operations. With support from assessment metadata, we can incorporate measured aspects of the following list into the metadata description at the question cognition level, the item difficulty index, the item discrimination index, the questionnaire style and the question style. The assessment analysis model provides analytical suggestions for individual questions, summary of test results and cognition analysis. Analytical suggestions provide teachers information about why a question is not appropriate. Summary of test results improves the teacher's view of student learning status immediately. Items missing from the teaching materials can be identified by cognition analysis. In this research, the authors propose an enhanced metadata model and an implemented system based on our model. With metadata support, metadata can help teachers in authoring examination.
Gas flux to the atmosphere from mud volcanoes in eastern Romania
Authors: Etiope G. , Baciu C. , Caracausi A. , Italiano F. , Cosma C.
Published: July 2004

Gas flux measurements have for the first time been taken from vents and soil of eastern Romania mud volcanoes, the largest geological structures in Europe releasing methane into the atmosphere. In the quiescent phase, the methane emission from single vents is up to 28 t yr−1. Diffuse soil microseepage is of the order of 102−105 mg m−2 day−1. A total output of at least 1200 tonnes of CH4per year can be conservatively estimated over the area investigated alone (∼ 2.3 km2). Helium fluxes are up to five orders of magnitude higher than the average flux in a stable continental area, pointing to a close link between mud volcanoes and crustal degassing through faults crossing the deep hydrocarbon reservoirs. These data represent a key contribution towards refining global CH4‐emission estimates, which indicate mud volcanoes as a significant and unavoidable source of greenhouse gases for the atmosphere.
Fracture sealing of quartzite under a temperature gradient: experimental results
Authors: Hilgers Christoph , Tenthorey Eric
Published: July 2004

Veined lithologies are formed by fracturing and sealing processes, with the veins representing former fluid conduits through the rock. Although detailed fieldwork and numerical simulations have provided a better understanding of vein growth, few studies have attempted to seal fractures and generate veins experimentally. In this pilot study, we subjected fractured quartzite to temperature gradients of 45–125 °C under hydrothermal conditions in a static fluid, with the aim of precipitating secondary quartz in the cooler portions of the fracture. Results show that secondary quartz precipitates due to the imposed temperature gradient, causing the initial fracture to seal locally. Although no systematic sealing pattern was observed along the fracture, samples subjected to higher temperatures exhibit a smaller fracture width and appear to have reacted more extensively. Electron microprobe mapping visualizes the spatial distribution of secondary quartz, which contains elevated concentrations of aluminium.
From rifting to spreading in the eastern Gulf of Aden: a geophysical survey of a young oceanic basin from margin to margin
Authors: Leroy Sylvie , Gente Pascal , Fournier Marc , D'Acremont Elia , Patriat Philippe , Beslier Marie‐Odile , Bellahsen Nicolas , Maia Marcia , Blais Angelina , Perrot Julie , Al‐Kathiri Ali , Merkouriev Serge , Fleury Jean‐Marc , Ruellan Pierre‐Yves , Lepvrier Claude , Huchon Philippe
Published: July 2004

A geophysical survey in the eastern Gulf of Aden, between the Alula–Fartak (52°E) and the Socotra (55°E) transform faults, was carried out during the Encens–Sheba cruise. The conjugate margins of the Gulf are steep, narrow and asymmetric. Asymmetry of the rifting process is highlighted by the conjugate margins (horst and graben in the north and deep basin in the south). Two transfer fault zones separate the margins into three segments, whereas the present‐day Sheba Ridge is divided into two segments by a transform discontinuity. Therefore segmentation of the Sheba Ridge and that of the conjugate margins did coincide during the early stages of oceanic spreading. Extensive magma production is evidenced in the central part of the western segment. Anomaly 5d was identified in the northern and southern parts of the oceanic basin, thus confirming that seafloor spreading in this part of Gulf of Aden started at least 17.6 Ma ago.
Characteristics of the 1912 co‐seismic rupture along the North Anatolian Fault Zone (Turkey): implications for the expected Marmara earthquake
Authors: Altunel Erhan , Meghraoui Mustapha , Akyüz H. Serdar , Dikbas Aynur
Published: July 2004

Evidence of right‐lateral offsets associated with the 1912 earthquake (Mw 7.4) along the North Anatolian Fault (Gaziköy–Saros segment) allow us to survey (using DGPS) the co‐seismic and cumulative slip distribution. The damage distribution and surface breaks related with the earthquake show an elongated zone of maximum intensity (X MSK) parallel to the fault rupture on land but this may extend offshore to the north‐east and south‐west. Detailed mapping of the fault using topographic maps and aerial photographs indicates the existence of pull‐apart basins and pressure ridges. At several localities, the average 1912 offset along strike is 3.5–4 m and cumulative slip is 2–6 times that of individual movement. The fault rupture geometry and slip distribution suggest the existence of three subsegments with a combined total length of 110–120 km, a fault length and maximum slip similar to those of the 1999 Izmit earthquake. The amount of slip at the north‐easternmost section and in the coastal region of the Sea of Marmara reaches an average 4 m, thereby implying the offshore extension of the 1912 rupture. The results suggest that the 1912 event generated up to 150 km of surface faulting, which would imply a Mw 7.2–7.4 earthquake and which, added with rupture lengths of the 1999 earthquakes, help to constrain the remaining seismic gap in the Sea of Marmara.