bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Management of expatriation and repatriation for novice global player
Authors: Baruch Yehuda , Steele D.J. , Quantrill G.A.
Published: November 2002

The paper tells us about the experience of a financial services company in managing its expatriation and repatriation processes. Data were gathered from official company sources and via in‐depth interviews with former expatriates. The analysis indicates that some 50 percent of people left the company following the repatriation within a few years after return. The experience gained by the company manifests the importance of proper management of the processes of expatriation and in particular repatriation. To attain a successful expatriation and repatriation the management should handle both processes as an integrated part of career management, since expatriation can form a crucial point in the development of a psychological contract between the employee and the company.
UK fund managers, audit regulation and the new Accountancy Foundation: towards a narrowing of the audit expectations gap?
Authors: Dewing Ian P. , Russell Peter O.
Published: November 2002

This paper reports the results of a postal questionnaire survey of UK primary stakeholders, members of the Institutional Fund Managers Association, as to the definition of the expectations gap, its constituents, and the extent to which the expectations gap might be narrowed by audit regulation. The study revealed that fund managers were aware of the audit expectations gap and were particularly concerned about the scope and responsibilities of the auditor, and monitoring of auditors’ work. Fund managers agreed that increased regulation offered potential to narrow the expectations gap, especially as regards monitoring and discipline of auditors. The paper concludes that establishment of the Accountancy Foundation should provide greater independence to the investigation and disciplinary processes of the existing regulatory framework, and thus go some way to narrowing the expectations gap. Concerns may remain about its perceived independence of the profession and the lack of a specific obligation to investigate auditors’ work in circumstances of corporate failure.
Australian auditors‐general involvement in probity auditing: evidence and implications
Authors: Ryan Christine , Ng Chew
Published: November 2002

Probity audits, real time audits which review compliance with process and conformance with guidelines, are gaining popularity in the Australian public sector. Prior research has noted that the conduct of probity audits by auditors‐general may pose problems for their independence. This paper provides empirical evidence on the extent to which probity audits are performed by auditors‐general in Australia, and the perceptions of auditors‐general to any dilemmas posed. The study finds that approximately half of the auditors‐general conduct probity audits, and that “independence” is a key concern for those who do not perform these tasks. This in‐depth study of probity audits contributes to an understanding of the changing nature of public sector audit.
Neuronal control of swimming in jellyfish: a comparative story
Authors: Satterlie Richard A
Published: November 2002

The swim-control systems of hydrozoan and scyphozoan medusae show distinct differences despite similarity in the mechanics of swimming in the two groups. This dichotomy was first demonstrated by G.J. Romanes at the end of the 19th century, yet his results still accurately highlight differences in the neuronal control systems in the two groups. A review of current information on swim-control systems reveals an elaboration of Romanes' dichotomy, but no significant changes to it. The dichotomy is used to suggest that cubomedusae are more closely aligned with the scyphomedusae, and to highlight areas of future research that could be used to look for common, possibly primitive, features of medusan conduction systems.
Photoreceptors of cnidarians
Authors: Martin Vicki J
Published: November 2002

Cnidarians are the most primitive present-day invertebrates to have multicellular light-detecting organs, called ocelli (eyes). These photodetectors include simple eyespots, pigment cups, complex pigment cups with lenses, and camera-type eyes with a cornea, lens, and retina. Ocelli are composed of sensory photoreceptor cells interspersed among nonsensory pigment cells. The photoreceptor cells are bipolar, the apical end forming a light-receptor process and the basal end forming an axon. These axons synapse with second-order neurons that may form ocular nerves. A cilium with a 9 + 2 arrangement of microtubules projects from the receptor-cell process. Depending on the species, the membrane covering the cilium shows several variations, including evaginating microvilli. In the cubomedusae stacks of membranes fill the apical regions of the photoreceptor cells. Pigment cells are rich in pigment granules, and in some animals the distal regions of these cells form tubular processes that project into the cavity of the ocellus. Microvilli may extend laterally from these tubular processes and interdigitate with the microvilli from the ciliary membranes of photoreceptor cells. Photoreceptor cells respond to changes in light intensity with graded potentials that are directly proportional to the range of the changes in light intensity. In the Hydrozoa these cells may be electrically coupled to each other through gap junctions. Light affects the behavioral activities of cnidarians, including diel vertical migration, responses to rapid changes in light intensity, and reproduction. Medusae with the most highly modified photoreceptors demonstrate the most complex photic behaviors. The sophisticated visual system of the cubomedusan jellyfish Carybdea marsupialis is described. Extraocular photosensitivity is widespread throughout the cnidarians, with neurons, epithelial cells, and muscle cells mediating light detection. Rhodopsin-like and opsin-like proteins are present in the photoreceptor cells of the complex eyes of some cubomedusae and in some neurons of hydras. Neurons expressing glutamate, serotonin, γ-aminobutyric acid, and RFamide (Arg-Phe-amide) are found in close proximity to the complex eyes of cubomedusae; these neurotransmitters may function in the photic system of the jellyfish. Pax genes are expressed in cnidarians; these genes may control many developmental pathways, including eye development. The photobiology of cnidarians is similar in many ways to that of higher multicellular animals.
THE LINDENBAUM ALGEBRA OF THE THEORY OF THE CLASS OF ALL FINITE MODELS
Authors: LEMPP STEFFEN , PERETYAT'KIN MIKHAIL , SOLOMON REED
Published: November 2002

In this paper, we investigate the Lindenbaum algebra ℒ(T fin ) of the theory T fin = Th (M fin ) of the class M fin of all finite models of a finite rich signature. We prove that this algebra is an atomic Boolean algebra while its Gödel numeration γ is a [Formula: see text]-numeration. Moreover, the quotient algebra (ℒ(T fin )/ℱ, γ/ℱ) modulo the Fréchet ideal ℱ is a [Formula: see text]-algebra, which is universal over the class of all [Formula: see text] Boolean algebras. These conditions characterize uniquely the algebra ℒ(T fin ); moreover, these conditions characterize up to recursive isomorphism the numerated Boolean quotient algebra (ℒ(T fin )/ℱ, γ/ℱ).

These results extend the work of Trakhtenbrot [17] and Vaught [18] on the first order theory of the class of all finite models of a finite rich signature.
Diisocyanate‐exposed auto body shop workers: A one‐year follow‐up
Authors: Redlich C.A. , Stowe M.H. , Coren B.A. , Wisnewski A.V. , Holm C.T. , Cullen M.R.
Published: November 2002

Background

Diisocyanates currently are the most commonly identified cause of occupational asthma in industrialized countries. Auto body shops, a common hexamethylene diisocyanate (HDI) exposure setting, are difficult to study due to their small size and episodic exposures.

Objectives

A 1‐year follow‐up was undertaken as an adjunct to the cross‐sectional SPRAY study (Survey of Painters & Repairers of Auto bodies by Yale) to investigate the effects of HDI on auto body shop workers over time and whether or not the healthy worker effect may exist in this industry.

Methods and Results

Forty‐eight workers from seven shops were re‐contacted. Thirty‐four subjects who stayed at the same shop and 11 who left their original shop participated. No statistically significant changes in physiology, symptoms, and immunologic responses from baseline to follow‐up were noted. However, significant differences between those who left the shops and those who stayed were noted. Those who left were younger, less experienced in the industry, and more likely to have a history of asthma (23 vs. 3%; P < 0.05), bronchial hyper‐responsiveness (23 vs. 9%), HDI‐specific IgG (64 vs. 29%; P < 0.05), and HDI‐specific proliferation (S.I. 2.0 vs. 1.3; P < 0.05).

Conclusions

The differences in workers who stayed at their shop compared to those who left, combined with the low asthma prevalence and high job turnover rate, all suggest that a healthy worker effect may exist in the auto body industry, and may in part account for the low prevalence of asthma noted in SPRAY and other cross‐sectional studies of diisocyante workers. Am. J. Ind. Med. 42:511–518, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Choanal stenosis, hypothelia, deafness, recurrent dacryocystitis, neck fistulas, short stature, and microcephaly: Report of a case
Authors: Dumić Miroslav , Cvitanović Marijana , Ŝarić Borna , Ŝpehar Anita , Batinica Stipe
Published: November 2002

We report on a 11‐year‐old girl with bilateral choanal stenosis, hypothelia, hearing loss, recurrent dacryocystitis, neck fistulas, short stature, and microcephaly. Only three individuals with choanal atresia from a consanguineous family have been reported. One of the patients also had hypoplastic nipples, hypotonia, and delay in speech development. Similar clinical features were seen in two children reported by Greenberg [1987: Am J Med Genet 28:931–934] and Wilson et al. [1998: Am J Med Genet 75:220–222]. They were prenataly exposed to methimazole because of maternal Graves disease. Neck fistulas and microcephaly noted in our patient were not previously reported as features of the syndrome or in the patients prenataly exposed to methimazole. Our patient and those reported by Qazi et al. [1982: Am J Med Genet 13:413–416] most probably have a rare syndrome characterized by this distinctive combination of symptoms. Prenatal exposure to methimazole can cause a phenocopy of the syndrome, which was probably the case in the patients reported by Greenberg and Wilson et al. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Oral, facial, digital, vertebral anomalies with psychomotor delay: A mild form of OFD type Gabrielli?
Authors: Ferrero Giovanni Battista , Valenzise Mariella , Franco Brunella , Defilippi Claudio , Gregato Giuliana , Corsello Giovanni , Pepe Ernesto , Silengo Margherita
Published: November 2002

A girl with oral, facial, and digital anomalies presented at birth with a large cleft palate filled by a nasopharyngeal mass and was found later to have several vertebral anomalies and mental retardation. A similar phenotype has been previously reported in a sporadic male patient [Gabrielli et al., 1994: Am J Med Genet 53:290–293], suggesting a new variant form of oral‐facial‐digital syndrome. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Teebi hypertelorism syndrome: Report of a family with previously unrecognized findings
Authors: Tsai Anne Chun‐Hui , Robertson Jacqualyn R. , Teebi Ahmad S.
Published: November 2002

We present a family consisting of a mother, a daughter, and a son with Teebi hypertelorism syndrome, including some previously unrecognized manifestations. The clinical findings include a prominent forehead, arched eyebrows, pronounced hypertelorism, long philtrum, mild interdigital webbing, fifth‐finger clinodactyly, umbilical anomalies, and hypotonia. The mother and daughter also had ptosis requiring surgical correction. The daughter has bilateral iridochorioretinal colobomas with high hyperopia and a small umbilical hernia. The son has less striking facial features but was born with a small omphalocele, large ASD secundum, PDA, bilateral cryptorchidism right hydronephrosis, and a cystic left kidney. The mother had an umbilical hernia requiring surgical correction as a child and a history of heart murmur. Both children have normal hearing and mild developmental delay. Their high‐resolution karyotypes were normal and the FISH for 22q11 microdeletion was negative in the daughter. We conclude that cardiac defects in Teebi hypertelorism syndrome are not rare findings and that eye colobomas and renal anomalies were previously unrecognized. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Estimation of the Euler method error on a Riemannian manifold
Authors: Bielecki Andrzej
Published: November 2002

This article presents an estimation of the Euler method on a Riemannian manifold. A distance between the nth iteration of the cascade generated by the time‐h map of a gradient flow and the nth iteration of the cascade generated by the Euler method of this flow is estimated. The application possibilities of the presented estimation are also discussed. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
GRSIM: A FORTRAN subroutine for the solution of non‐symmetric linear systems
Authors: Shah A. A.
Published: November 2002

A FORTRAN subroutine called GRSIM subroutine is presented for the iterative solution of a set of non‐symmetric linear equations, Ax = b, where the coefficient matrix A is a sparse nearly symmetric structured M‐matrix. These matrices occur repeatedly in the finite‐difference solution of partial differential equations. The method solves non‐symmetric systems of linear equations, but uses highly developed techniques for the solution of symmetric systems of linear equations. A general description of the method, which is based on particular class of regular splitting, is given. The GRSIM subroutine uses a regular splitting and the convergence is, therefore, guaranteed. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Efficient boundary element method solution of potential problems that are large, linear and involve optimization of boundary geometry
Authors: Gale Timothy John , Johnston Peter Rex , Kilpatrick David
Published: November 2002

A method was developed for efficient boundary element method solution of potential problems that were large, linear and involved optimization of boundary geometry. The method involved forming an optimization region containing the section of boundary to be optimized, and an invariant region incorporating the remainder of the problem. Solution was by Gaussian elimination. Matrix elements arising from boundary discretization and application of the governing equations were manipulated to permit computations relating to the invariant region to be performed only once. The matrix and vector terms for the invariant region were first calculated, the matrix converted to upper‐diagonal form and the values stored. For each boundary configuration within the optimization region, additional matrix elements were computed and appended to the pre‐computed matrix. The complete set of equations were subsequently solved by conversion of the appended matrix terms to upper‐diagonal form, followed by back‐substitution. A practical example involved determining the electric field arising due to different electrodes implanted in the human heart. Computation time was found to be an order of magnitude less for the second and subsequent electrode configurations than for the first. The method may find application in boundary element method optimization problems involving complex or large regions. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Leaf and peel volatile compounds of an interspecific citrus somatic hybrid [Citrus aurantifolia (Christm.) Swing. + Citrus paradisi Macfayden]
Authors: Gancel Anne‐Laure , Ollé Didier , Ollitrault Patrick , Luro François , Brillouet Jean‐Marc
Published: November 2002

The volatile compounds from leaves and peels of an interspecific citrus somatic hybrid, Citrus aurantifolia (Christm.) Swing. + Citrus paradisi Macfayden, obtained by fusion of protoplasts from lime, Citrus aurantifolia (cv. Mexican Lime) and grapefruit, Citrus paradisi (cv. Star Ruby), were extracted by pentane : ether (1 : 1) from liquid nitrogen ball‐milled leaves and flavedo and examined by GC–MS in comparison to those of its parents. The hybrid quantitatively retained the ability of the lime parent to synthesize in its leaves the major monoterpene aldehydes (neral, geranial) the monoterpene alcohols (nerol, geraniol), and their acetates, and also the capacity of the grapefruit parent to produce a sesquiterpene aldehyde (β‐sinensal) in its leaves and nootkatone in its peel. Conversely, synthesis of most sesquiterpene hydrocarbons and long chain aliphatic aldehydes, which are present in the lime parent leaves and peel, was strongly inhibited in the hybrid, as in the grapefruit parent. In comparison to its parents, the hybrid overproduced citronellal in its leaves and α‐sinensal and β‐sinensal in its peel. Based on these results, the future prospects for a better understanding of the inheritance mechanisms with regards to aroma biosynthesis in citrus leaves and peels are discussed. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Formation of fragrance materials from odourless glycosidically‐bound volatiles by skin microflora (Part 1)
Authors: Ikemoto Takeshi , Okabe Bun‐Ichi , Mimura Kunio , Kitahara Takeshi
Published: November 2002

The applicability of using odourless glycosidically bound volatiles (GBVs) as fragrance materials was investigated. After incubating skin microflora with various kinds of GBVs, the amounts of fragrance materials generated and the remaining glycosides were analysed by GC and HPLC. Most GBVs, particularly β‐D‐glucosides, were metabolized by various skin microflora to release their aglycones as fragrance materials. It was assumed that this was due to differences in enzymatic activity of the microflora. The results also suggest their considerable usefulness as alternative fragrance materials. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Chemical composition of the essential oils from the roots, fruits, leaves and stems of Pimpinella cumbrae Link growing in the Canary Islands (Spain)
Authors: Velasco‐Negueruela Arturo , Pérez‐Alonso María José , Pérez de Paz Pedro Luís , García Vallejo Concepción , Palá‐Paúl Jesús , Iñigo Ana
Published: November 2002

The oil constituents from the roots, fruits, leaves and stems of Pimpinella cumbrae Link gathered in the Canary Islands, Spain, have been studied by GC and GC–MS in combination with retention indices. The major constituents in the root oil were found to be isokessane (17%), β‐dihydroagarofuran (15%), 2‐methyl‐butyric acid (10%), geijerene (10%) and pregeijerene (7%). In the fruit oil the main components found were α‐bisabolol (39%), δ‐3‐carene (16%) and limonene (8%). In the leaf oil, α‐bisabolol (53%) and δ‐3‐carene (11%) were the predominant constituents. The most important compounds from the stem oil were α‐bisabolol (39%), isokessane (10%) and β‐dihydroagarofuran (9%). Pseudoisoeugenol esters were also detected in the oils from the roots, fruits and stems. These components were partially hydrolysed in the course of prolonged hydrodistillation to 2‐methyl‐5‐methoxybenzofuran. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Studies on some bulky triorganotin complexes of germatranyl‐substituted carboxylic acids
Authors: Song Xueqing , Xie Qinglan , Fang Xiaoniu
Published: November 2002

Eleven tris(2‐methyl‐2‐phenylpropyl)tin as well as four methyl bis[(phenyldimethylsilyl)methyl]tin β‐germatranylpropionates have been synthesized, and their structures were characterized by elemental analyses, IR, multinuclear (1H, 13C, 119Sn) NMR, Mössbauer, and MS spectroscopies. All the spectroscopic studies suggest a tetrahedral geometry for the bulky triorganotin carboxylates. The preliminary bioassays have shown that most of the compounds have good acaricidal activity. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Heteroatom Chem 13:592–598, 2002; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/hc.10039
2,4,6‐Tri‐tert‐butylphenyl and 2,4‐di‐tert‐butyl‐6‐methylphenyl groups: Look similar, react differently
Authors: Ionkin Alex S. , Marshall William J.
Published: November 2002

The crystal structures of molecules with two phosphaalkene groups have been determined. Differences in the stabilization of the PC π‐bond by the 2,4,6‐tri‐tert‐butylphenyl and 2,4‐di‐tert‐butyl‐6‐methylphenyl groups were observed. It has been found that lithium supermesityl(trimethylsilyl)phosphide could be a very efficient base to remove a proton from acetonitrile.© 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Heteroatom Chem 13:662–666, 2002; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/hc.10083
Synthesis and reactions of indane‐1,3‐dione‐2‐thiocarboxanilides with hydrazonoyl halides and active chloromethylene compounds
Authors: Elwan Nehal M. , Hassaneen Huwaida M. , Hassaneen Hamdi M.
Published: November 2002

A novel synthesis of thiadiazoline derivatives 12 and 14 via treatment of indane‐1,3‐dione‐2‐thiocarboxanilides (5) with hydrazonoyl halides 1 and 2 is reported. Also, active chloromethylene compounds 15 react with 5 to give thiazole derivatives 19. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Heteroatom Chem 13:585–591, 2002; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/hc.10132
Investigation of the relationship between nitric oxide metabolites' levels and adenosine deaminase activity in 7,12‐dimethylbenz[a]anthracene induced mouse liver
Authors: Ozturk I. Cetin , Batcioglu Kadir
Published: November 2002

7,12‐Dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (7,12‐DMBA) is a member of the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons with a severe carcinogenic effect. In this study, nitrate levels and ADA (Adenosine deaminase) activity in the liver homogenates of mice were measured and the effect of free radicals induced by 7,12‐DMBA on inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and ADA activity were investigated. Antioxidant effects of melatonin were also compared. Three groups of mice were included in the study. The first served as control, the second was treated only with 7,12‐DMBA and the third was treated with 7,12‐DMBA + melatonin. Spectrophotometric methods were used at all measurements. Data were analyzed using Kruskal–Wallis Variance Analysis Test and Mann–Whitney U Test that were applied to the groups. The nitrate concentrations of mouse liver were as follows: 4.98 ± 0.63 μmol/L in the control group (n = 10), 8.23 ± 1.58 μmol/L (higher than control group, p < 0.05) in the 7,12‐DMBA‐treated group (n = 10), and 6.43 ± 0.57 μmol/L (lower than 7,12‐DMBA‐treated group, p < 0.05) in the 7,12‐DMBA + melatonin‐treated group (n = 10). Liver ADA activities were measured to be 4.14 ± 0.674 U/L in the control group, 6.25 ± 1.261 U/L (higher than control group, p < 0.05) in the 7,12‐DMBA‐treated group, and 4.93 ± 0.916 U/L (lower than 7,12‐DMBA‐treated group, p < 0.05) in the 7,12‐DMBA+melatonin‐treated group. Differences between free nitrite levels were no significantly. Results demonstrated that nitrate levels and ADA activities were increased by means of free radicals induced by 7,12‐DMBA. Melatonin inhibited the 7,12‐DMBA induced increase that was observed in the activities of ADA enzyme and nitrate levels. It is concluded that determination of ADA activity and nitrate levels can be useful in the assesment of liver damage caused by toxic chemicals. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 16:260–262, 2002; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/jbt.10041
Lead‐dependent effects on arachidonic acid accumulation and the proliferation of vascular smooth muscle
Authors: Dorman Robert V. , Freeman Ernest J.
Published: November 2002

Lead (Pb2+) has been implicated in the development of hypertension and atherosclerosis. The proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMC) is a central feature of both conditions and there is evidence that Pb2+ potentiates serum‐dependent cell growth. The aim of this work was to examine the role of phospholipase A2 in mitogen‐dependent VSMC proliferation and determine if Pb2+ interacts with this system in order to potentiate mitotic events. It was observed that cell proliferation induced by angiotensin II, or fetal bovine serum, required the activation of a Ca2+‐dependent cytosolic phospholipase A2 and the subsequent release of unesterified arachidonic acid. This path was affected by Pb2+ as the metal increased the amount of arachidonic acid accumulation induced by either mitogen. In addition, Pb2+ potentiated mitogen‐induced DNA synthesis when present at lower doses (0.02 or 0.2 mg%), but had no effect on DNA synthesis, or cell numbers, in unstimulated cells. However, a high dose (2 mg%) of Pb2+ attenuated the DNA synthesis stimulated by angiotensin II, or serum, but induced the accumulation of unesterified arachidonic acid in unstimulated cells. A biphasic effect of Pb2+ on cell numbers and viability was also observed as 0.02 or 0.2 mg% Pb2+ did not affect cell numbers or trypan blue exclusion in unstimulated cells, while 2 mg% Pb2+ reduced cell numbers and viability. It appeared, therefore, that the lower concentrations of Pb2+ increased arachidonic acid release and DNA synthesis only in stimulated VSMC, perhaps due to further activation of a Ca2+‐dependent processes. In contrast, the high dose of Pb2+ reduced DNA synthesis in stimulated cells and reduced cell numbers and viability in unstimulated cells, which may relate to the noted increase in unesterified arachidonic acid. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biochem Mol Toxicol 16:245–253, 2002; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/jbt.10045
Lack of specificity of cell‐surface protease targeting of a cytotoxic hyperfusogenic gibbon ape leukaemia virus envelope glycoprotein
Authors: Kirkham Lucy A. , Bateman Andrew R. , Melcher Alan A. , Vile Richard G. , Fielding Adele K.
Published: November 2002

Background

In a strategy termed “Protease Targeting”, retroviral vectors carrying an EGF infectivity‐blocking domain fused to the N‐terminus of the envelope SU via a MMP (matrix metalloproteinase)‐cleavable linker were successfully used to target gene delivery to EGF receptor‐(EGF‐R‐)positive tumour cells over‐expressing MMPs. In the current study, we aimed to investigate whether this strategy could be applied to (a) limit the cytotoxic activity of a hyperfusogenic GALV therapeutic gene, and (b) enhance the immune‐stimulatory properties of GALV via local, MMP‐mediated release human granulocyte‐macrophage colony stimulating factor (GM‐CSF).

Methods

We generated GALV envelope expression constructs displaying EGF or GM‐CSF blocking ligands at the N‐terminus of GALV envelope SU via a non‐cleavable, Factor Xa protease or MMP‐cleavable linker and investigated their cytotoxicity on MMP‐positive and negative cell lines.

Results

The unmodified hyperfusogenic GALV envelope was cytotoxic to all cell lines tested. The non‐cleavable linker GALV envelope constructs caused no cytotoxicity, demonstrating efficient inhibition by the displayed domains. Moderate activation of fusion of the protease‐cleavable linker constructs was observed in all cell lines, regardless of their level of MMP expression and of the specificity of the linker. High levels of the ‘blocking domain’ were detected in the cell supernatants due to dissociation of the surface unit (SU) from the transmembrane (TM) component of the GALV envelope glycoprotein TM.

Conclusions

Unlike protease targeting in the context of retroviral vectors, protease activation of the cytotoxicity of GALV envelope by cleavage of a fusion blocking ligand at the cell surface does not appear to be specifically mediated by cell‐surface MMPs. In addition, shedding of the SU‐fusion protein from the TM limits the general applicability of this strategy for cancer gene therapy. Specificity of cell‐cell fusion mediated by GALV envelope cannot be manipulated in the same fashion as virus‐cell fusion. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Controlled transgene expression by E1‐E4‐defective adenovirus vectors harbouring a “tet‐on” switch system
Authors: Fender P. , Jeanson L. , Ivanov M. A. , Colin P. , Mallet J. , Dedieu J. F. , Latta‐Mahieu M.
Published: November 2002

Background

The “tet switch system” was originally described under the tet‐off configuration with its components encoded by two separate plasmids. Since then, many virus vectors harbouring tet‐off components have been designed and their regulation by tetracycline is widely reported. On the contrary, tet‐on regulation by viral vectors is poorly documented.

Methods

E1‐E4‐defective adenoviruses harbouring either rtTA or the luciferase gene under a minimal inducible promoter (TK* or CMV*) or both components in a single genome were produced. Using either a double or a single virus strategy, induction of luciferase expression was investigated in various cell lines, in mice muscle and in rat brain.

Results

Over 400‐fold induction can be reached with PC12 and NHA cells using a double virus strategy. Comparison of the background activity of different minimal inducible promoters revealed a significant difference between TK* and CMV* promoters both with the cell culture and the in vivo experiments. Interestingly, a single virus strategy permitted an induction exceeding 600‐fold with human astrocyte primary cells. Moreover, the E1‐E4‐defective adenovirus‐mediated tet‐on system can be quickly switched off and turned back on again. Depending on the cell line, the level of rtTA derived by the single virus strategy differed, resulting in different efficiencies. Experiments performed in rat striatum and mouse muscle confirmed the importance of rtTA expression and minimal promoter used on both doxycycline‐independent expression and induction efficiency. Under appropriated rtTA expression, a 32‐fold induction is observed in mouse muscle.

Conclusions

In the recombinant adenovirus context, the CMV* but not the TK* promoter is sensitive to transcriptional interference resulting in high doxycycline‐independent expression. By paying attention to the rtTA expression, moderate and high induction can be obtained in vivo and in vitro accordingly. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Gene therapy for rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Bessis Natacha , Doucet Christelle , Cottard Virginie , Douar Anne‐Marie , Firat Hüseyin , Jorgensen Christian , Mezzina Mauro , Boissier Marie‐Christophe
Published: November 2002

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a severe autoimmune systemic disease. Chronic synovial inflammation results in destruction of the joints. No conventional treatment is efficient in RA. Gene therapy of RA targets mainly the players of inflammation or articular destruction: TNF‐α or IL‐1 blocking agents (such as anti‐TNF‐α monoclonal antibodies, soluble TNF‐α receptor, type II soluble receptor of IL‐1, IL‐1 receptor antagonist), antiinflammatory cytokines (such as IL‐4, IL‐10, IL‐1), and growth factors. In this polyarticular disease, the vector expressing the therapeutic protein can be administered as a local (intra‐articular injection) or a systemic treatment (extra‐articular injection). All the main vectors have been used in experimental models, including the more recent lentivirus and adeno‐associated virus. Ex vivo gene transfer was performed with synovial cells, fibroblasts, T cells, dendritic cells, and different cells from xenogeneic origin. In vivo gene therapy is simpler, although a less controlled method. Clinical trials in human RA have started with ex vivo retrovirus‐expressing IL‐1 receptor antagonists and have demonstrated the feasibility of the strategy of gene therapy. The best target remains to be determined and extensive research has to be conducted in preclinical studies. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The point‐estimate method with large numbers of variables
Authors: Christian John T. , Baecher Gregory B.
Published: November 2002

Rosenbleuth's point‐estimate method has become widely used in geotechnical practice for reliability calculations. Although the point‐estimate method is a powerful and simple method for evaluating the moments of functions of random variables, it is limited by the need to make 2n evaluations when there are n random variables. Modifications of the method reduce this to 2n evaluations by using points on the diameters of a hypersphere instead of at the corners of the inscribed hypercube. However, these techniques force the co‐ordinates of the evaluation points farther from the means of the variables; for a bounded variable, the points may easily fall outside the domain of definition of the variable. The problem can be avoided by using other techniques for some special cases or by reducing the number of random variables that must be considered. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Comments on use of the Barcelona Basic Model for unsaturated soils
Authors: Wheeler S. J. , Gallipoli D. , Karstunen M.
Published: November 2002

The paper discusses some aspects of the Barcelona Basic Model (BBM), which is one of the most widely used elasto‐plastic models for unsaturated soils. In addition to modelling those unsaturated soils where the collapse potential increases with increasing net stress (as envisaged by the original authors), the BBM can also be used to model soils where the collapse potential decreases with increasing net stress, by selecting suitable values for the model parameters r and pc. A practical procedure is suggested for selecting a value for the important model parameter pc from laboratory test data. Problems with use of the BBM are discussed, including the difficulty of correctly matching the locations of the normal compression lines for different values of suction and the possibility of non‐convexity of the yield curve. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Stereochemical assignment of naturally occurring 2,3‐epoxy‐2‐methylbutanoate esters
Authors: Torres‐Valencia J. Martín , León Guadalupe I. , Villagómez‐Ibarra J. Roberto , Suárez‐Castillo Oscar R. , Cerda‐García‐Rojas Carlos M. , Joseph‐Nathan Pedro
Published: November 2002

A method to determine the absolute configuration of 2,3‐epoxy‐2‐methylbutanoate ester residues in natural products is presented, based on (i) the reduction of the ester function to yield a 2‐methyl‐1,2‐butanediol, (ii) esterification of the obtained primary alcohol with either (R)‐(+)‐ or (S)‐(−)‐Mosher's acid to afford the corresponding Mosher's ester, and (iii) 1H‐NMR spectral comparison of the final product with that of the Mosher's esters prepared from 2‐methyl‐1,2‐butanediols of known stereochemistry. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Capillary zone electrophoresis of syringyl and guaiacyl monomers resulting from lignin thioacidolysis
Authors: Fournand David , Mila Isabelle , Lapierre Catherine
Published: November 2002

A capillary zone electrophoretic method has been developed for the quantitative determination of syringyl (S) and guaiacyl (G) monomers resulting from lignin thioacidolysis. The effects on the separation of altering a number of parameters have been investigated, resulting in an efficient and rapid separation. Analysis times were about 10 min instead of 50 min for the conventional GC methods, with no requirement for a derivatisation step prior to analysis. Relative standard deviations ranged between 8 and 12% for the absolute determination of S and G monomers, and between 1.4 and 3.5% for the S/G ratio. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
NMR shift data of neo‐clerodane diterpenes from the genus Ajuga
Authors: Coll Josep
Published: November 2002

The complete assignment of the NMR spectra of ajugarin I and ajugareptansin, as models for other neo‐clerodane diterpenoids isolated from the genus Ajuga, is reported in order to improve their usefulness as reference compounds. Conflicting NMR shift data for some members of this group are discussed, and plausible reassignments are proposed [i.e. the identity of ajugacumbin C and ajugamarin A2; the revision of ajugacumbin D as 12‐hydroxyajugacumbin A, and of ajugacumbin E as 12‐hydroxy‐1‐(3‐hydroxy‐2‐methylenebutanoyloxy)ajugarin I] in order to provide a unified basis for future use. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A Graph Theoretic Approach for Modeling Mobile Robot Team Formations
Authors: Desai Jaydev P.
Published: November 2002

This paper addresses a new approach for modeling and control of multiple
teams of mobile robots navigating in a terrain with obstacles, while maintaining
a desired formation and changing formations when required. We model each team
as a triple, (g,r, ℋ︁ ), consisting of a group element,
g∈SE(2), that describes the gross position of the lead robot,
a set of shape variables, r, that describe the relative positions of
robots, and a control graph, ℋ︁, that describes the behaviors of the robots
in the formation. We assume that all the robots are equipped with the appropriate
sensors to detect and avoid other robots and obstacles in the environment.
Our framework enables the representation and enumeration of possible control
graphs, and the coordination of transitions between any two control graphs.
Further, we describe an algorithm that allows each team of robots to move
between any two formations, while avoiding obstacles. As the number of robots
increases, the number of possible control graphs increases. However, because
the control computations are decentralized, the algorithms scale with the
number of robots. We present examples to illustrate the control graphs and
the algorithm for transitioning between them in the presence and absence of
sensor noise. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
On the probability of independent sets in random graphs
Authors: Krivelevich Michael , Sudakov Benny , Vu Van H. , Wormald Nicholas C.
Published: November 2002

Let k be the asymptotic value of the independence number of the random graph G(n, p). We prove that if the edge probability p(n) satisfies p(n) ≫ n−2/5ln6/5n then the probability that G(n, p) does not contain an independent set of size k − c, for some absolute constant c > 0, is at most exp{−cn2/(k4p)}. We also show that the obtained exponent is tight up to logarithmic factors, and apply our result to obtain new bounds on the choice number of random graphs. We also discuss a general setting where our approach can be applied to provide an exponential bound on the probability of certain events in product probability spaces. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Random Struct. Alg., 22: 1–14, 2003
Renewal processes on partially ordered sets
Authors: Siegrist Kyle
Published: November 2002

Let G = (V, ≤) be a partially ordered set such that V is countable, there exists a minimum element a ∈ V, and {u ∈ V : u ≤ v} is finite for each v ∈ V. Suppose that {Xv : v ≠ a} is a collection of independent, identically distributed, nonnegative random variables. We think of Xv as the time required to perform a job associated with v, but the job at v cannot begin until all jobs at u < v are finished. The natural random variables associated with this model are the time when all jobs in a given subset of V are completed, and the set of completed jobs at a given time. These variables are studied in terms of the structure of G, and several stochastic comparison results are obtained. The common model for sequential broadcasting in trees is a special case, and in this context, we study the broadcast center of a tree. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Random Struct. Alg., 22: 15–32, 2003
ON THE SPEED OF CONVERGENCE TO AN EXPONENTIAL DISTRIBUTION
FOR THE TIME OF THE FIRST OCCURRENCE OF A RARE EVENT IN A
REGENERATING PROCESS
Authors: Zhang Hanqin , Li Wei
Published: November 2002

In this article, the time of the first occurrence of a rare
event in a regenerating process is investigated. We obtain the
bound of deviation from the distribution of the time of the
first occurrence of a rare event in a regenerating process to
an exponential distribution.
NONHOMOGENEOUS BIRTH PROCESSES AND
l∞-SPHERICAL DENSITIES, WITH APPLICATIONS
IN RELIABILITY THEORY
Authors: Shaked Moshe , Spizzichino Fabio , Suter Florentina
Published: November 2002

In this article we characterize l∞-spherical
density functions by means of epoch times of nonhomogeneous pure birth
processes. Some further properties of l∞-spherical
densities, such as Schur-concavity, positive dependence, and stochastic
comparisons, are also given. The relationships of
l∞-spherical densities to notions of interest in
reliability theory are highlighted.
THE DEVIATION MATRIX OF A CONTINUOUS-TIME MARKOV CHAIN
Authors: Coolen-Schrijner Pauline , van Doorn Erik A.
Published: November 2002

The deviation matrix of an ergodic, continuous-time Markov
chain with transition probability matrix P(·) and
ergodic matrix Π is the matrix D ≡
∫0∞(P(t) −
Π) dt. We give conditions for D to exist and
discuss properties and a representation of D. The deviation
matrix of a birth–death process is investigated in detail. We
also describe a new application of deviation matrices by showing
that a measure for the convergence to stationarity of a stochastically
increasing Markov chain can be expressed in terms of the elements of
the deviation matrix of the chain.
PERFORMANCE ANALYSIS OF THE RANDOM EARLY DETECTION ALGORITHM
Authors: Sharma V. , Virtamo J. , Lassila P.
Published: November 2002

In this article we consider a finite queue with its arrivals
controlled by the random early detection algorithm. This is
one of the most prominent congestion avoidance schemes in the
Internet routers. The aggregate arrival stream from the population
of transmission control protocol sources is locally considered
stationary renewal or Markov modulated Poisson process with
general packet length distribution. We study the exact dynamics
of this queue and provide the stability and the rates of
convergence to the stationary distribution and obtain the packet
loss probability and the waiting time distribution. Then we
extend these results to a two traffic class case with each arrival
stream renewal. However, computing the performance indices for
this system becomes computationally prohibitive. Thus, in the
latter half of the article, we approximate the dynamics of the
average queue length process asymptotically via an ordinary
differential equation. We estimate the error term via a diffusion
approximation. We use these results to obtain approximate transient
and stationary performance of the system. Finally, we provide
some computational examples to show the accuracy of these
approximations.
EXACT RESULTS FOR A FLUID MODEL WITH STATE-DEPENDENT FLOW RATES
Authors: Kella Offer , Stadje Wolfgang
Published: November 2002

We consider a modulated fluid system with a finite state-space
Markov chain Jt as modulating process
and general state-dependent net input rates. We derive differential
equations for the transient and the stationary distribution of
(Wt, Jt),
where Wt is the content process, and the
corresponding Laplace transforms with respect to time. Moreover, we
study the level hitting times of Wt. Our
results lead to explicit formulas in the case of two modulating states.
CLOSED-FORM STOCHASTIC BOUNDS ON THE STATIONARY DISTRIBUTION
OF MARKOV CHAINS
Authors: Ben Mamoun Mouad , Pekergin Nihal
Published: November 2002

We propose a particular class of transition probability matrices
for discrete-time Markov chains with a closed form to compute
the stationary distribution. The stochastic monotonicity properties
of this class are established. We give algorithms to construct
monotone, bounding matrices belonging to the proposed class
for the variability orders. The accuracy of bounds with respect
to the underlying matrix structure is discussed through an example.
AN EMERGENCY FACILITY WITH MINIMAL ADMISSION
Authors: Preater J.
Published: November 2002

We study an M/M/∞ queuing system
in which each arrival has a random urgency and is admitted if
and only if it is more urgent than all individuals currently
receiving service. The system represents, for example, a
less-than-magnanimous emergency facility. For this system, and
also for a closely related “Parody,” we study the
busy period distribution and, to a lesser extent, occupancy.
Both exact and heavy traffic results are given.
Using the past to explain the present: Tense and temporal
reference in Early African American English
Authors: Walker James A.
Published: November 2002

This study reconstructs the present temporal reference system
of Early African American English by investigating the linguistic
factors conditioning several variables within the domain of
present temporal reference in three representative varieties.
Previous studies have focused only on the opposition between
Ø and -s in the present tense, ignoring other
morphosyntactic constructions. Expanding the variable context
to present temporal reference, I demonstrate that different
constructions convey different aspects: the previously noted
association between -s and habitual aspect is confirmed,
but Ø is also associated with an aspectual
distinction—that of duration. The progressive is used
most often with nonstative verbs to denote durative aspect,
whereas its much rarer use with statives appears to reflect
an older stage in its “grammaticization.” Combining
variationist analysis with the comparative method, this
reconstruction provides linguistically meaningful explanations
of the observed variability and places it within the context
of the development of the English language.
MODELING ASYMMETRIES AND MOVING EQUILIBRIA IN UNEMPLOYMENT RATES
Authors: Skalin Joakim , Teräsvirta Timo
Published: November 2002

The paper discusses a simple univariate nonlinear parametric time-series model for unemployment rates, focusing on the asymmetry observed in many OECD unemployment series. The model is based on a standard logistic smooth transition autoregressive model for the first difference of unemployment, but it also includes a lagged level term. This model allows for asymmetric behavior by permitting “local” nonstationarity in a globally stable model. Linearity tests are performed for a number of quarterly, seasonally unadjusted, unemployment series from OECD countries, and linearity is rejected for a number of them. For a number of series, nonlinearity found by testing can be modeled satisfactorily by use of our smooth transition autoregressive model. The properties of the estimated models, including persistence of the shocks according to them, are illustrated in various ways and discussed. Possible existence of moving equilibria in series not showing asymmetry is investigated and modeled with another smooth transition autoregressive model.
Information Technology for Planners: The gmforum
Authors: Bae Chang-Hee Christine , Trumbull Nathaniel , Wu Howard , Voge Kimberly
Published: November 2002

The authors report on web-based communications between professional planners and graduate students in Washington State, focusing on growth management issues. The website gmforum included: solicitations of advice from the planners; a moderated listserv; traditional course materials; statements on growth-management topics with links to other websites; and facilities for personal e-mail communications. A survey of the planners and the students showed a high degree of satisfaction with the outcomes.