bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transgenic corn seed for recombinant protein production: relevant aspects on the aqueous extraction of native components
Authors: Azzoni Adriano R , Farinas Cristiane S , Miranda Everson A
Published: November 2004

Plants have been considered one of the most promising expression systems for the production of recombinant proteins. Foreseen advantages include high productivity, optimal processing and assembly, and the non‐propagation of human or animal pathogens. A few successful examples of commercial proteins produced in plants have been reported in the literature, such us β‐glucoronidase, avidin, hirudin and aprotinin. Although the purification scheme is always a challenge in downstream processing development, the extraction is the key point since the presence of impurities deleterious to the process efficiency and operational‐life span of the equipment is determined at this step. This work reports the effect of pH and ionic strength in the extraction of proteins, phenolic compounds, lipids and sugars from transgenic corn seed. The phenolic compounds, lipids and reducing sugars were not significantly affected by changes in the ionic strength of the extracting solutions in the range 0–300 mM NaCl and pH 6.3. However, at high pH value (pH 10.0), high solubilization of proteins, phenolic compounds and lipids was achieved, whereas reducing sugars were not significantly extracted at this condition. This work is complementary to the studies reported in a previous paper and contributes to the development of recombinant protein recovery and purification process from transgenic corn. Copyright © 2004 Society of Chemical Industry
Rate constants for the reaction of halogenated alkylperoxyl radicals with iodide: influence of substituents, solvent polarity, and proton concentration
Authors: Štefanić Igor , Asmus Klaus‐Dieter , Bonifačić Marija
Published: November 2004

This pulse radiolysis study deals with the reaction of iodide ions (I−) with a series of halogenated alkylperoxyl radicals in 2‐propanol–water mixtures. Under investigation were CF3OO·, CFCl2OO·, CCl3OO·, C2Cl5OO·, CHCl2OO· and CF3CHClOO·. Each of these peroxyl radicals oxidizes a total of three I− ions in a fast and practically simultaneous reaction sequence. An overall two‐electron step, involving a transient peroxyl–iodide adduct radical, results in the oxidation of two iodide ions to yield molecular I2 and the corresponding halogenated alkoxyl radical, R(Hal)O·. The latter is responsible for the oxidation of the third iodide to yield iodine atoms, I·. The overall second‐order rate constants for these multi‐electron oxidation processes were determined by following the formation kinetics of I3−/I2·−, the spectrophotometrically accessible forms of I2 and I· in I−‐containing solutions. These rate constants were determined as a function of pH, polarity of solvent mixtures and electronegativity of the substituents at the α‐C atom of the peroxyl radicals. They strongly depend on all these variables, with the actual numbers covering a range from 3 × 105 to 7.0 × 108 M−1 s−1. A good linear relationship is obtained between logk and the dielectric constant of the solvent mixture. Within a particular solvent mixture the rate constants depend strongly on the substituents at the alkylperoxyl moiety and correlate with Taft's inductive substituent constants σ*. The overall multi‐electron oxidation mechanism of alkylperoxyl radicals is discussed in the light of the new results. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Statistik für Muggles — Das Ende der Ökonometrie als Geheimwissenschaft
Authors: Würthwein Ralph
Published: November 2004

Die mathematische Statistik hat — nicht zuletzt durch Basel II, Solvency II und den Einsatz moderner Risikomanagement‐Verfahren — ihren Platz in der Ecke der Geheimwissenschaften verlassen und drängt sich immer mehr in den Blickpunkt der Praxis. Allerdings müssen Praktiker häufig statistische Methoden anwenden, ohne mit den entsprechenden mathematischen Hintergründen vertraut zu sein. Statistik ist jedoch nicht nur eine Sammlung von Formeln und methodischen Instrumentarien, sondern vor allem eine Denkweise, die auch ohne mathematische Vorkenntnisse nachvollzogen werden kann.
Natur— und Man‐made‐Risiken
Authors: Romeike Frank , Erben Roland Franz
Published: November 2004

Nach tagelangem Orkan mit mittleren Wellenhöhen von bis zu 16 Metern setzte der 261 Meter lange Frachter „München”︁ am 12. und 13. Dezember 1978 mehrere sehr schwache SOS‐Signale ab. Trotz einer der größten und langwierigsten internationalen Rettungsaktionen im Atlantik blieb das Schiff samt 28 Mann Besatzung bis heute verschollen. Gefunden wurden nur drei Bargen (Container), ein leeres, zerstörtes Rettungsboot, eine Seenot‐Funkboje sowie leere, teils ölverschmierte Rettungsinseln. Man vermutet, dass die damals als praktisch unsinkbar geltende und nach modernsten Gesichtspunkten ausgestattete „München”︁ das Opfer einer oder mehrerer Extremereignisse wurde (vermutet werden Monster‐Wellen, auch „Kaventsmänner”︁ oder „freak waves”︁ genannt, die eine Höhe von bis zu 35 Metern erreichen).
Measuring HIV vaccine efficacy
Authors: Hernández‐Suárez C. M.
Published: November 2004

Some HIV vaccine candidates have a potential VEI (vaccine efficacy for infectiousness) type effect, which tends to reduce the viral load and may reduce infectiousness of an infected individual. In general, the efficacy of this kind of vaccine is very difficult to assess because it requires information on contacts of vaccinated infected individuals, and current methods to estimate VEI rely on the time elapsed between infections of an individual and his/her sexual partner, thus making infection of the sexual partner necessary to assess the efficacy. To avoid behavioural changes that may affect the estimates, HIV status is kept undisclosed to participants, which raises many ethical questions. Here we present a method that allows immediate notification of HIV status to both members of a couple, reducing the risk of infection when one of them has not been infected and allowing immediate medical treatment. The method allows for estimation of any VEI and VES (vaccine efficacy for susceptibility) effect, and it is robust to the most common situations found in these type of studies, namely: differential risk of participants, staggered enrollment and small sample sizes. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Methods for assessing the accuracy of PCR‐based tests: comparisons and extensions
Authors: Ou San‐San , Hughes James P. , Richardson Barbra A.
Published: November 2004

Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) based tests are commonly used to diagnose various infections. Such tests are assumed to be highly ‘sensitive’, however, no consensus definition of, or method for estimating, sensitivity exists. Hughes and Totten proposed that sensitivity be defined as a function of the number of target DNA molecules in the sample with specificity corresponding to the case where there is no target DNA molecule present. They then developed parametric, non‐parametric and semi‐parametric models for estimating the sensitivity curve. In this paper a general model is proposed that yields their three models as special cases when specificity is assumed to be 1.0. We also extend the general model to incorporate covariates. Simulation studies are used to compare the different estimators. The methods are applied to data from a PCR‐based test for Mycoplasma genitalium. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Nanoengineered Polymer Capsules: Tools for Detection, Controlled Delivery, and Site‐Specific Manipulation
Authors: Sukhorukov Gleb B. , Rogach Andrey L. , Zebli Bernd , Liedl Tim , Skirtach Andre G. , Köhler Karen , Antipov Alexei A. , Gaponik Nikolai , Susha Andrei S. , Winterhalter Mathias , Parak Wolfgang J.
Published: November 2004

We present the concept of multifunctional nanoengineered polymer capsules and outline their applications as new drug delivery systems or supramolecular toolboxes containing, for example, enzymes capable of converting nontoxic prodrugs into toxic drugs at a designated location. Such functionalized nanocontainers offer a wide range of applications including enzymatic catalysis, controlled release, and directed drug delivery in medicine due to their multifunctionality. The unique advantage of capsules in comparison to other systems is that they can be functionalized or loaded simultaneously with the above‐mentioned components, thus permitting multifunctional processes in single cells.
Effects of guide field on quick magnetic reconnection triggering
Authors: Tanaka K. G. , Shinohara I. , Fujimoto M.
Published: November 2004

Influence of the guide field on quick magnetic reconnection triggering (QMRT) is investigated by three‐dimensional (3‐D) full‐particle simulations with the mass ratio of 400. Here two runs with different current sheet thickness (D = 0.35 and 0.5, D: the current sheet half thickness normalized by the ion inertial length) are performed with a constant guide field of B0y = 0.75B0x (B0x: asymptotic magnitude of reconnecting component). QMRT has been found in a null guide‐field case of D = 0.5 ∼ 0.875 and is quick because reconnection onset is directly coupled to the most quickly growing mode in the system, the lower‐hybrid drift instability (LHDI) ( I. Shinohara and M. Fujimoto, Quick triggering of magnetic reconnection in an ion‐scale current sheet, submitted to PhysicalReviewLetters, 2004, hereinafter referred to as Shinohara and Fujimoto, submitted manuscript, 2004). In contrast D = 0.5 with B0y = 0.75B0x is too thick to be subject to QMRT. Recovery of QMRT is found at D = 0.35, accompanying a single X‐line formation with slight delay from the LHDI saturation.
Chemical and dynamical effects on cloud droplet number: Implications for estimates of the aerosol indirect effect
Authors: Lance Sara , Nenes Athanasios , Rissman Tracey A.
Published: November 2004

Most aerosol‐cloud‐climate assessment studies use empirical aerosol number/droplet number relationships, which are subject to large variability. Historically, this variability has been attributed to unresolved variations in updraft velocity. We revisit this postulation and assess the effects of both updraft velocity and chemical composition on this variability. In doing so we utilize an inverse modeling approach. Using a detailed numerical cloud parcel model and published aerosol characteristics, with published correlations of cloud droplet versus sulfate and cloud droplet versus aerosol number as constraints, we determine a most probable size distribution and updraft velocity for polluted and clean conditions of cloud formation. A sensitivity analysis is then performed to study the variation in cloud droplet number with changes in aerosol chemistry and updraft velocities. This addresses the need to estimate the importance of chemical effects on spatial scales relevant for global climate models. Our analysis suggests that the effect of organic surfactants can introduce as much variability in cloud droplet number as the effect of expected variations in updraft velocity. In addition, the presence of organics seems to further enhance the sensitivity of droplet concentration to vertical velocity variability. The variability from organic surfactants is seen to be insensitive to variations in aerosol number concentration, implying that such effects can affect cloud droplet number consistently over large spatial scales. Our findings suggest that organics can be as important to the aerosol indirect effect as the effect of unresolved cloud dynamics, and they illustrate the potential and complex role of chemical effects on aerosol‐cloud interactions.
Agrometeorological conditions of grassland vegetation in central Mongolia and their impact for leaf area growth
Authors: Miyazaki Shin , Yasunari Tetsuzo , Miyamoto Tadashi , Kaihotsu Ichirow , Davaa Gambo , Oyunbaatar Dambarajaa , Natsagdorj Luvsan , Oki Taikan
Published: November 2004

The long‐term observation of surface heat and water budget and hydrometeorological elements has been carried out over a grassland site at Arvaikheer (46.23°N, 102.82°E) in central Mongolia as the framework of the GEWEX Asian Monsoon Experiment‐Asian Automatic Weather Station Network (GAME‐AAN). The purpose of this study is to clarify the relationship between vegetation and climate using long‐term data (1982–2000) of satellite‐derived leaf area index (LAI) and climatic data observed at Arvaikheer. Furthermore, we aimed to reveal physical process by comparing soil moisture and heat and water budgets in 1999 and 2000 as a case study of good and poor vegetation growth. Significant positive correlations with 99% confidence levels were found for July precipitation (P) and the LAI in July (0.538), August (0.826), and September (0.564). Composite analysis for five highest (H5) and lowest (L5) LAI years showed the significant positive anomalies of P in July and LAI in July and August for H5. In June and July 1999, soil moisture and P values were higher than values in 2000; this pattern was reversed in August and September. The mean LAI during the 1999 growing season (1.0) was about twice that of 2000 (0.6). In 1999 the ratio of evapotranspiration (ET) to P (ET/P) and change of stored soil moisture (ΔW) to P (ΔW/P) were 0.79 and 0.15, respectively. In 2000, ET/P and ΔW/P were 0.94 and 0.0, respectively. These results suggest that the P and ΔW before July had the most influent on grass growth in central Mongolia.
State‐dependent sampling bias in insects: implications for monitoring western tarnished plant bugs
Authors: Zink Andrew G. , Rosenheim Jay A.
Published: November 2004

Insect populations vary in the proportion of individuals exhibiting a particular ‘state’ (e.g., developmental stage, sex, egg load, or nutritional status). Because an insect's developmental state often determines both its size and its behavior, it is likely that this will also affect the probability of being sampled. We propose that a comprehensive approach to pest management must consider the interaction between the structure of a pest population (i.e., the relative number of individuals in each state) and any state‐dependent sampling bias. To illustrate the usefulness of this method we sampled populations of the western tarnished pest bug, Lygus hesperus Knight (Heteroptera: Miridae), in cotton fields. Our sampling technique utilized large cages to measure the absolute densities of each L. hesperus stage and adult sex within a population. This technique allowed us to document a wide range of absolute stage structures and sex ratios across 10 L. hesperus populations in California. Using a combination of cage samples and sweep net samples, we quantified the state‐dependent sampling bias by calculating the efficiency of sweep sampling as a function of L. hesperus developmental stage and sex. We found that the efficiency of sweep nets increased steadily with each successive developmental stage (i.e., nymphal instar) of L. hesperus. We also found that sweep nets are slightly more efficient in capturing male vs. female L. hesperus adults. Since other studies have documented that the stage and sex of L. hesperus can affect feeding impact on cotton flower buds, our results suggest that accurate predictions of Lygus damage will need to incorporate stage and sex‐dependent sampling biases.
6. Exponential Family Models for Sampled and Census Network Data
Authors: Koehly Laura M. , Goodreau Steven M. , Morris Martina
Published: November 2004

Much progress has been made on the development of statistical methods for network analysis in the past ten years, building on the general class of exponential family random graph (ERG) network models first introduced by Holland and Leinhardt (1981). Recent examples include models for Markov graphs, “p*” models, and actor-oriented models. For empirical application, these ERG models take a logistic form, and require the equivalent of a network census: data on all dyads within the network. In a largely separate stream of research, conditional log-linear (CLL) models have been adapted for analyzing locally sampled (“egocentric”) network data. While the general relation between log-linear and logistic models is well known and has been exploited in the case of a priori blockmodels for networks, the relation for the CLL models is different due to the treatment of absent ties. For fully saturated tie independence models, CLL and ERG are equivalent and related via Bayes' rule. For other tie independence models, the two do not yield equivalent predicted values, but we show that in practice the differences are unlikely to be large. The alternate conditioning in the two models sheds light on the relationship between local and complete network data, and the role that models can play in bridging the gap between them.
POWER, NATURE AND NEOLIBERALISM: THE POLITICAL ECOLOGY OF WATER IN CHILE
Authors: Budds Jessica
Published: November 2004

Since the 1990s, international water sector reforms have centred heavily on economic and market approaches. In regard to water resources management, tradable water rights have been promoted, often supported by the neoliberal model adopted in Chile. Chile's 1981 Water Code was reformed to comprise a system of water rights that could be freely traded with few restrictions. International financial institutions have embraced the Chilean model, claiming that it results in more efficient water use, and potentially fosters social and environmental benefits. However, in Chile the Water Code is deeply contested. It has been criticised for being too permissive and has produced a number of problems in practice. Moreover, attempts to modify it have become the focus of a lengthy polemic debate. This paper employs a political ecology perspective to explore the socio‐environmental outcomes of water management in Chile, drawing on a case study of agriculture in the semi‐arid Norte Chico. The case illustrates how large‐scale farmers exert greater control over water, while peasant farmers have increasingly less access. I argue that these outcomes are facilitated by the mode of water management implemented within the framework of the Water Code. Through this preliminary examination of social equity and the environmental aspects of water resources management in Chile, I suggest that the omission of these issues from the international debates on water rights markets is a cause for concern.
Papular elastolytic giant cell granuloma responding to hydroxychloroquine and quinacrine
Authors: Kelly Benjamin J. , Mrstik Megan E. , Ramos‐Caro Francisco A. , Iczkowski Kenneth A.
Published: November 2004

A 75‐year‐old Caucasian male with papular elastolytic giant cell granuloma was treated successfully with hydroxychloroquine (200 mg p.o. bid for 4 months). Treatment had to be stopped because of early retinopathy. Treatment was started with quinacrine, which accomplished partial control.
Follicular mucinosis in a 4‐year‐old boy
Authors: Lockshin Benjamin N. , Khachemoune Amor , Cohen Carlos
Published: November 2004

Follicular mucinosis (FM) is defined as the presence of mucin in the follicular epithelium. This phenomenon has been described in association with a number of clinical entities, including those associated with lymphoreticular malignancies. Here we present a case of FM of unknown etiology in a 4‐year‐old boy.
Is human herpesvirus 7 the causative agent of pityriasis rosea? – a critical review
Authors: Chuh Antonio A. T. , Chan Henry H. L. , Zawar Vijay
Published: November 2004

Background  Conflicting results on the association of pityriasis rosea and human herpesvirus 7 infection have been reported by different investigators.

Aim  To review the level of evidence for such an association.

Methods  Medline was searched with unlimited data entry and 13 reports were retrieved. The data were analyzed for a causative association according to the criteria of Fredericks and Relman, which take into consideration latent infection and the reactivation of viruses characteristic of herpesviruses, and the roles of sequence‐based detection methods.

Results  None of the criteria was substantiated by the findings of most investigators. Factors leading to the discrepancies of the results were discussed.

Conclusion  There is currently insufficient evidence that human herpesvirus 7 infection is causally related to pityriasis rosea.
Insight into the pathogenesis of sporadic basal cell carcinoma
Authors: Holíková Zuzana , Massi Daniela , Lotti Torello , Hercogová Jana
Published: November 2004

Sporadic basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the commonest human cancer. Although its aggressiveness is low and metastatic potential negligible, the increasing incidence of the tumor in the Western world drives attention to its pathogenesis. In 1996, germ‐line mutations in the patched receptor of the Sonic hedgehog (Shh) signaling pathway were described in the Gorlin–Goltz syndrome in association with multiple nevoid BCCs. Later, the aberrant activation of the Shh was identified in sporadic BCCs as well. Recently, the role of other tumor suppressors and DNA repair gene mutations and their relationship with UV radiation‐induced DNA damage have been elucidated.
Use of complementary and alternative medicines by children and adolescents with inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Day AS , Whitten KE , Bohane TD
Published: November 2004

Objectives:  The use of complementary and alternative medicines (CAM) appears increasingly prevalent in children and adolescents. Individuals with chronic illness may have patterns of greater usage. This questionnaire‐based study aimed to ascertain the frequency of use by a group of children with proven inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and to consider the reasons for their use.

Methods:  A questionnaire was sent by mail to the parents of patients currently attending a paediatric IBD clinic. Parents were asked to describe their child's usage of alternative and probiotic therapies and to comment on a number of aspects of such therapies.

Results:  Forty‐six (77%) of 60 mailed questionnaires were returned. The mean age of the children was 10.9 (± 4.1) years and they were taking an average of 1.7 (± 0.8) prescribed medications. Thirty‐three (72%) of the children were said by their parents to be having CAM, with four having five or more such therapies (average 2.4 ± 1.3 agents per child). The most commonly used agents were probiotics (78%) and fish oils (56%). A minority (12%) of respondents reported that their child's CAM was very effective, although many (50%) noted partial benefits. The 13 children who had never used any CAM therapies (‘non‐users’) did not differ from the ‘users’ in terms of gender, age, disease or duration of disease. As expected, non‐users expressed greater concerns about use of CAM and described different attitudes towards such therapies.

Conclusion:  Complementary and alternative medicines, especially probiotic therapies, frequently are administered to children and adolescents with inflammatory bowel disease. Often this appears to be due to parental frustration with managing their child's chronic illness. Practitioners caring for children and adolescents with IBD need to be aware that their patients may be using alternative therapies and adopt an open attitude in this situation.
Maternal water intoxication as a cause of neonatal seizures
Authors: West CR , Harding JE
Published: November 2004

Abstract:  A term infant was admitted at 6 h of age with seizures related to hyponatraemia. During the last hours of labour the infant's mother had drunk 3 L of water. After delivery the serum sodium was 121 mmol/L in the mother and 126 mmol/L in the infant. Both resolved spontaneously. We discuss this case and the impact of maternal fluid intake during labour on the fetus and neonate. Women should be advised that excessive oral fluid intake during labour could adversely affect both mother and infant.
Endodermal cyst of the cervical spinal cord with associated partial fusion of the vertebrae
Authors: Slowinski Jerzy , Stomal Monika , Zajecki Wojciech , Pieniazek Jerzy , Snietura Miroslaw
Published: November 2004

A case of a 43‐year‐old woman with an intradural endodermal cyst at the C4 spinal cord level is presented. The lesion manifested with progressive neck pain and weakness of lower extremities. The presumptive diagnosis of extramedullary benign cystic lesion was established after MRI examination. Coexisting partial fusion of the C5‐C6 vertebral bodies  was  found  on  X‐ray  films.  The  patient  was  cured  by resection of the cyst wall, performed by laminectomy. Pathological examination revealed a cyst wall lined with ciliated cuboidal cells, resembling the respiratory epithelium. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated cytokeratin and epithelial membrane antigen expression in the lining of the cyst. Endodermal cyst should be considered in the differential diagnosis of intraspinal cystic lesions, especially those associated with vertebral anomalies.
Morphological differences of intraneuronal ubiquitin‐positive inclusions in the dentate gyrus and parahippocampal gyrus of motor neuron disease with dementia
Authors: Yaguchi Masamitsu , Fujita Yukio , Amari Masakuni , Takatama Masamitsu , Al‐Sarraj Safa , Leigh Peter N. , Okamoto Koichi
Published: November 2004

Semiquantitative morphological analysis of cerebral intraneuronal ubiquitin‐positive tau‐negative inclusions, a pathologic marker for motor neuron disease with dementia (MND‐D), was performed in the dentate gyrus and parahippocampal gyrus of 20 clinicopathologically confirmed patients with MND‐D. The forms of the inclusions were tentatively classified into three types: (i) C‐type, consisting of relatively large and intensely stained crescent or circular structures; (ii) L‐type, showing fine linear structures around the nuclei; and (iii) G‐type, showing faintly stained granular structures. The frequencies of the C‐type, L‐type and G‐type was 0.5–9.3%, 0.2–6.5% and 0–6.6% of dentate granule cells, respectively. In contrast to the dentate gyrus, almost all inclusions showed either the C‐type or L‐type form in the parahippocampal gyrus. A positive correlation was noted only between incidences of C‐type inclusion of the dentate gyrus and that of the parahippocampal gyrus (r = 0.69,P < 0.05). The morphological differences of the inclusions probably reflect different stages of their formation.
Identification and use of a wild plant with antimicrobial activity against Ralstonia solanacearum, the cause of bacterial wilt of potato
Authors: OOSHIRO ATSUSHI , TAKAESU KAZUKO , NATSUME MASAHIRO , TABA SATOSHI , Nasu Kanami , UEHARA MIKA , MURAMOTO YORITOMO
Published: November 2004

Fresh aerial tissue and roots of 14 wild plants in Okinawa prefecture were investigated for their antimicrobial activity against Ralstonia solanacearum, which causes bacterial wilt of potato. A 70% aqueous ethanol extract of fresh aerial tissue of Geranium carolinianum L. showed strong antimicrobial activity against R. solanacearum. This extract also showed antimicrobial activity against the pathogens causing common scab of potato and soil rot of sweet potato. The antimicrobial substance could be extracted with hot water, and was effective against R. solanacearum in soil. In the field test, a treatment combining incorporation of dried aerial tissue into the soil and solarization was highly effective for control of bacterial wilt of potato. These findings suggest that G. carolinianum L. could be used as a biological agent for the control of bacterial wilt of potato.
Effects of winter barley as a cover crop on the weed vegetation in a no‐tillage soybean
Authors: KOBAYASHI HIROYUKI , MIURA SHIGENORI , OYANAGI ATSUSHI
Published: November 2004

The present study clarified the effects of winter barley as a cover crop on the weed vegetation, expressed as a multiplied dominance ratio (MDR), and emergence of summer annual weeds in a no‐tillage soybean system. A 3 year field study with treatments consisting of six systems was conducted: no‐tillage single cropping, no‐tillage cropping following winter barley and tillage single cropping, respectively with and without herbicide application. The MDR of perennial weeds increased annually in the no‐tillage fields in spring, but summer annual weeds were abundant in all fields, including the no‐tillage fields in summer. Grasses, for example Digitaria ciliaris (Retz.) Koeler, were especially abundant in the no‐tillage fields. The MDR of summer annual weeds, especially grasses in the barley and soybean fields, were much lower than for the no‐tillage single soybean fields. Densities of D. ciliaris and Echinochloa crus‐galli (L.) Beauv. var. crus‐galli in the no‐tillage single soybean fields were much greater than in the tilled fields, with few exceptions. In contrast, broad‐leaved weeds emerged more in tilled fields than in the no‐tillage fields. Winter barley suppressed emergence of summer annual weeds, especially during the first 3 years. The MDR for grasses in summer showed a good correlation with the frequency of emergence for grasses every year. These results showed that the increase in the volume of grasses in summer resulted mainly from an increase in the frequency of emergence, and that the suppression of grasses by winter barley resulted mainly from suppression of the emergence frequency. Soybean yields were higher in the barley and soybean fields for the first 2 years.
Effect of temperature on herbicidal properties of MTB‐951, a mycoherbicide to control Echinochloa crus‐galli L.
Authors: HIRASE KANGETSU , YOSHIGAI SATOSHI , NISHIDA MAKOTO , SHINMI TATSUO
Published: November 2004

MTB‐951 is a potential mycoherbicide using a fungal plant pathogen (Drechslera monoceras) isolated from native Echinochloa species in Japan. Conidia of this pathogen were used as the active ingredient and the effect of temperature on its properties was examined in a laboratory. The optimum temperature for conidium germination was broad between 15 and 35°C and no difference in the germination ratio existed within this temperature range. Mycelial growth was the fastest at 25°C but was slower outside of the range 15–35°C. When leaves of Echinochloa crus‐galli L. were immersed in deionized water containing the conidia, cellular electrolyte leakage from the leaves was observed. However, no electrolyte leakage occurred from leaves of rice (Oryza sativa L.) under the same conditions. The occurrence of electrolyte leakage from E. crus‐galli was dependent on the temperature and was the highest at 25°C. Herbicidal activity of MTB‐951 against E. crus‐galli was high between 25°C and 30°C, but decreased at 35°C in a glass vessel. In the present study, it was revealed that the physiological and herbicidal properties of MTB‐951 depended on the temperature.
Awn of darnel (Lolium temulentum L.) as an anthropogenic dispersal organ: A case study in Malo, south‐western Ethiopia
Authors: TOMINAGA TOHRU , FUJIMOTO TAKESHI
Published: November 2004

Darnel (Lolium temulentum), a weed of wheat and barley, is either awned or awnless. The role of the darnel awn in dispersal was investigated in relation to human's agricultural practices in cereal cultivation in a Malo village, Gaytsa, south‐western Ethiopia. In 24 free‐threshing wheat fields and 11 emmer wheat fields, 129 and 88 spikes (one spike per plant), respectively, of darnel were randomly sampled. At the market in Gaytsa, 11 free‐threshing wheat grain samples and eight emmer wheat grain samples of 150–200 g were collected. For each grain sample, the number of wheat grains and awned and awnless grains of darnel were recorded. The relative percentage of the awned form in free‐threshing wheat fields was 8.53% and that in emmer wheat fields was 70.45%. The relative percentage of awned grains in free‐threshing wheat grains from the market collection was 3.55% and that in emmer wheat grain lots was 75.20%. The morphology of awned darnel grains resembles emmer wheat grains and awnless darnel grains resemble free‐threshing wheat grains. Thus, grain mimicry controls the close association of the two forms of darnel with the wheat species. The lack of an awn itself functions for darnel grain as a dispersal mechanism in free‐threshing wheat cultivation systems compared with other wild grass species.
Places and Spaces: The Role of Metonymy in Organizational Talk
Authors: Musson Gill , Tietze Susanne
Published: November 2004

abstract 

Cultural meaning making as reflected in, and constituted by, organizational talk is an established field of interest in organizational analysis. However, the discursive mechanics of the process whereby this cultural meaning making is created and maintained are less well understood. The premise of this paper is that taken‐for‐granted assumptions embedded in organizational talk can be explored through the analysis of metonymy, a trope which is under explored in the linguistic turn in organization studies. This lack of focus on metonymy is, we believe, related to the fundamentally conventional nature of the trope in use, which expresses ideas, values and relationships that seem natural, normal and routine but which are culturally bound. We address this gap and carry out a metonymical analysis of organizational talk about physical places and spaces in one organization, to show how cultural norms and meanings are reflected, maintained, and potentially changed in these figures of speech. We show how metonymic chains based on buildings can reflect, reify and simplify the symbolic order of the organization, how these symbolic meanings can be transferred on to other inanimate objects and the constructions thereby spread, how people can be constructed within this symbolic chain, and how these metonymic chains can be invoked to potentially confirm, challenge or change the organizational order.
Knowledge Stocks and Information Flows in New Product Development*
Authors: Kyriakopoulos Kyriakos , De Ruyter Ko
Published: November 2004

abstract 

Although firms increasingly invest in systems (e.g. ISO, knowledge centres, IT systems) for utilizing stored knowledge and acquiring market information during new product development, few manage to benefit from these investments. To explore this issue, we suggest that firms rely on two distinct types of knowledge stocks– procedural and declarative memory – that affect new product short‐term financial performance and creativity in distinct ways. Additionally, we suggest that internal or external information flows can have distinct moderating impact on the memory types–product outcomes relationship. Our empirical study of product development activities indicates that there is an inverted U‐shaped relationship between procedural memory and product outcomes as well as a positive relationship between declarative memory and financial performance. Also procedural and declarative memory may work in a complementary fashion enhancing both outcomes. Finally, procedural memory is found to reduce the value of internal or external information flows for product creativity. These findings have important implications for the organizational knowledge, capabilities, and product development literatures as well as for practice and they open ways for future research.
Rethinking the Business School*
Authors: Starkey Ken , Hatchuel Armand , Tempest Sue
Published: November 2004

abstract 

It is ironic that at a moment in history when the business school seems to be enjoying unparalleled success, the role of the business school is being increasingly questioned by some of its leading professors. We examine the debate about the business school and its evolution. While sympathetic to the criticisms levied against the business school we nevertheless suggest a positive future if the business school can build upon its potentially unique position as knowledge space.
Delayed Hospital Discharge and Mental Health: The Policy Implications of Recent Research
Authors: Glasby Jon , Lester Helen
Published: November 2004

In 2003, the Community Care (Delayed Discharges etc.) Act introduced charges for social services departments unable to discharge patients from hospital within agreed timescales. As details of this reimbursement policy have begun to emerge, it has become apparent that the new system may also be extended to mental health services. In response, this narrative review of the literature on delayed hospital discharges and mental health reports findings from 12 studies, which raise important and timely concerns about the feasibility of reimbursement. Although a significant number of people experience delayed discharges from acute psychiatric services, the task of defining delayed discharges is complex and subjective, dependent on the professional background and seniority of the person making the judgement. Reasons behind delayed discharges are also multi‐factorial in nature and cannot be attributed to social services departments alone.
Complicated Problems, Complicated Solutions? Homelessness and Joined‐up Policy Responses
Authors: Roche Martin
Published: November 2004

The government has recently signalled its determination to address both the symptoms and causes of homelessness through the introduction of new legislation requiring local authorities within England and Wales to develop strategic approaches to addressing this issue. Moreover, in common with many other areas of social provision in recent years, the “joining‐up” of services has been identified as a central tenet of these new approaches. In the case of homelessness, then, experience gleaned from other policy fields may prove an invaluable resource, in terms both of guiding approaches and in avoiding potential pitfalls. This paper examines the findings from a study undertaken within one Midlands city to investigate this assumption. Based upon evidence from this study it is suggested that, while precedent can offer this particular policy area valuable lessons, homelessness is an issue which, due to its multi‐dimensionality, offers new and unique challenges of its own.
Ultrasound detection of spontaneous hepato‐cellular carcinomas in X/myc bitransgenic mice
Authors: Mai W. , Barraud L. , Lefrancois L. , Scoazec J.Y. , Guerret S. , Vray D. , Merle P. , Vitvitski‐Trepo L. , Trepo C. , Janier M.F.
Published: November 2004

Abstract: Aims: To evaluate trans‐abdominal ultrasound for the detection of Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in a bitrasgenic murine (X/myc) model using a commercially available high‐frequency ultrasound unit.

Methods: Sixty‐one female animals were included in this study. These animals were submitted to a single ultrasound examination of the liver under general anesthesia (isoflurane), and then euthanized. Results of ultrasound were compared with necropsy and histopathology.

Results: The lesions demonstrated a fairly consistent aspect (oval‐ or round‐shaped, well‐defined hypoechoic homogeneous lesions), and lesions as small as 2 mm were identified. For detection of hepatic nodules per mouse the sensitivity was 75%, the specificity was 100% and the accuracy was 88.5%. For detection of hepatic focal lesions per lesions the overall sensitivity was 60%, the specificity was 97%, and the accuracy was 75.9%. Contrast‐enhanced harmonic ultrasound imaging did not improve the identification of the lesions in our experimental conditions.

Conclusion: High‐frequency ultrasound appears to be an efficient tool allowing new possibilities to use this animal model and evaluate new therapies in longitudinal studies, which are much more powerful.
Risk factors for hepatocellular carcinoma in Hepatitis C patients with sustained virologic response to interferon therapy
Authors: Iwasaki Yoshiaki , Takaguchi Kouichi , Ikeda Hiroshi , Makino Yasuhiro , Araki Yasuyuki , Ando Masaharu , Kobashi Haruhiko , Kobatake Toshitsugu , Tanaka Ryoji , Tomita Minoru , Senoh Tomonori , Kawaguchi Mitsuhiko , Shimoe Toshinari , Manabe Koji , Kita Keiji , Shimamura Junnosuke , Sakaguchi Kohsaku , Shiratori Yasushi
Published: November 2004

Abstract:
Background: Although a variety of papers demonstrated inhibited hepatocarcinogenesis with interferon (IFN) therapy for chronic hepatitis C, a small number of hepatocellular carcinomas (HCCs) were still observed even in sustained virologic responders.

Aims: To clarify factors affecting the development of HCC, we analyzed the frequency of HCC in sustained virologic responders over a long‐term observation period.

Methods: Seven hundred and ninety‐two out of the 2623 IFN‐treated hepatitis C patients who had undergone liver biopsy showed sustained virologic response. Screening for development of HCC was performed periodically during an average follow‐up of 5.1 years. Fibrosis of the pretreatment liver biopsy sample was graded. Risk factors for HCC were analyzed by using Cox proportional hazards regression.

Results: Of 792 patients, 23 developed HCC. Univariate analysis showed that stage of hepatic fibrosis, age, and alcohol consumption were significantly associated with a risk of HCC (P<0.001). There was a significant difference in the cumulative incidence between patients stratified according to these variables (P<0.001).

Conclusions: Pretreatment hepatic fibrosis score, age, and alcohol consumption may affect development of HCC even in sustained virologic responders. Thus, patients with these factors should be carefully followed even after eradication of the virus.
Loss of cooperative function of transforming growth factor‐β signaling proteins, smad3 with embryonic liver fodrin, a β‐spectrin, in primary biliary cirrhosis
Authors: Mishra Bibhuti , Tang Yi , Katuri Varalakshmi , Fleury Tom , Said Anan H , Rashid Asif , Jogunoori Wilma , Mishra Lopa
Published: November 2004

Abstract: Modulation of fibrogenesis, epithelial, and mesenchymal cell fates are prominent effects of transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β) signaling by Smad proteins. We have previously shown that Smad2 and Smad3 insufficiency leads to a loss of bile ducts. In addition, Smad3/4 activity is mediated by embryonic liver fodrin (ELF), a β‐Spectrin. In mouse elf−/− mutants and in liver explant cultures, loss of ELF function results in T lymphocytic proliferation and absent intrahepatic bile ducts. A similar phenotype is seen in a number of cholestatic diseases with progressive loss of intrahepatic bile ducts and fibrosis. However, the expression patterns of Smads or role of ELF in cholestatic and fibrotic liver diseases are not yet known.

Methods/results: We investigated the role of ELF in primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC), autoimmune hepatitis C, chronic viral hepatitis and in livers from mice deficient in Smad2/Smad3. We generated elf+/− mutant mice and analyzed for chronic liver disease and hepatocellular cancer (HCC) from 6 to 12 months. Perturbations in ELF expression were consistently seen only in PBC tissues. ELF expression was similarly aberrant in tissues from Smad2+/−/Smad3+/− mutant mice. Further studies indicated that ELF mislocalization is correlated with aberrant localization of Smad3 in some PBC tissues. Thirteen of 17 elf+/− mutant mice developed steatosis, fibrosis, hepatic dysplasia, with HCC in two mice.

Conclusions: These results suggest that a compromised cytoarchitecture and polarized trafficking of TGF‐β signaling molecules, ELF and Smad3 are involved in the pathogenesis of PBC as well as HCC.
Hepatitis B virus reactivation in breast cancer patients undergoing cytotoxic chemotherapy and the role of preemptive lamivudine administration
Authors: Dai M. S. , Wu P. F. , Shyu R. Y. , Lu J. J. , Chao T. Y.
Published: November 2004

Abstract: Background: Recent data suggest that hepatitis B virus (HBV) reactivation develops in 41% of breast cancer (BC) patients carrying HBV after chemotherapy. Our study aimed to determine the role of preemptive use of lamivudine in BC patients undergoing chemotherapy.

Patients and methods: The test group consisted of 11 female patients with BC who were seropositive for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg). Of these, 10 patients were treated in an adjuvant setting and one for metastatic disease. Lamivudine was given from the start of chemotherapy and was maintained until 1 month after the last infusion of chemotherapy. The control group consisted of nine historical BC patients carrying HBV and received similar systemic chemotherapy without preemptive lamivudine. Variables including HBsAg, HBV envelope antigen, anti‐HBV envelope antibody, serial serum alanine transaminase (ALT), quantitative HBV viral DNA analysis, and HBV‐DNA precore promoter and precore sequence were monitored. Test for emergence of mutant strains, notably nucleotide 550, was performed 6 months after the completion of chemotherapy.

Results: All patients tolerated lamivudine well without development of evident HBV reactivation or overt hepatitis. Serum ALT remained unchanged without rebound hepatitis after cessation of chemotherapy and withdrawal of lamivudine. No emergence of lamivudine‐selective resistant strain (so‐called tyrosine–methionine–aspartate–aspartate mutations) was observed.

Conclusions: Our results encourage preemptive use of lamivudine for prevention of HBV reactivation in patients who need short‐term chemotherapy.
How molecular microscopy revealed new insights into the dynamics of hepatic endothelial fenestrae in the past decade
Authors: Braet Filip
Published: November 2004

Abstract: This review discusses the current state of knowledge about the ultrastructure of hepatic endothelial fenestrae. The application of different high‐resolution correlative microscopic methods during the past decade facilitated the accumulation of new insights in the morpho‐functional and structural organization of the liver sieve. The data gathered unambiguously show the involvement of special domains in de novo formation and disappearance of fenestrae, and focuses future research into the (supra)molecular structure of the fenestrae‐forming center, defenestration center and fenestrae‐associated cytoskeleton ring by using cryo‐electron microscopic tomography.
Vigorous response of cytotoxic T lymphocytes associated with systemic activation of CD8+ T lymphocytes in fulminant hepatitis B
Authors: Kondo Y. , Kobayashi K. , Asabe S. , Shiina M. , Niitsuma H. , Ueno Y. , Kobayashi T. , Shimosegawa T.
Published: November 2004

Abstract: Background: Fulminant hepatitis is a clinical syndrome characterized by sudden and severe liver dysfunction.

Methods: We analyzed two patients with a superacute form of fulminant hepatitis B and compared findings with those of four patients with acute self‐limited hepatitis B, two patients with acute exacerbation of chronic hepatitis B and four healthy individuals.

Results: In fulminant hepatitis, an increased population of human leukocyte antigen (HLA)‐DR+ CD8+ lymphocytes was observed in peripheral blood by flow cytometry, which was accompanied by the presence of HLA‐DRhi lymphocytes. The phenotype of CD8+ T lymphocytes from patients with fulminant hepatitis was mostly that of the effector T lymphocytes in peripheral blood, whereas lymphocytes with CD45RA− CCR7− phenotype dominated in the liver of these patients. A larger population of hepatitis B virus (HBV)‐specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) appeared in peripheral circulation of the fulminant hepatitis patients compared with that in a patient with acute hepatitis. HBV‐specific CTLs were highly concentrated in the liver, although epitopes recognized by these CTLs in the peripheral blood and in the liver were similar. Peripheral CTLs were mostly functional as indicated by intracellular perforin and interferon‐γ.

Conclusions: These results suggest the presence of vigorous activation of CD8+ T cells in vivo in fulminant hepatitis and the necessity of extensive therapy in patients with this disease.