bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modulation of EWS/WT1 activity by the v‐Src protein tyrosine kinase
Authors: Kim Jungho , Lee Joseph M. , Branton Philip E. , Pelletier Jerry
Published: July 2002

Desmoplastic small round cell tumor (DSRCT) is a malignant human cancer that is associated with a specific t(11;22) chromosome translocation, where 265 amino acids from the EWS amino‐terminus are fused to the DNA binding domain of the WT1 tumor suppressor gene. We have noticed the presence of several SH3 interacting domains within the amino‐terminus of EWS and have assessed the potential of EWS/WT1 to interact with such motifs. We find that EWS/WT1 can associate with the SH3 domain of several proteins, including v‐Src. Ectopic expression of v‐Src phosphorylates EWS/WT1 in vivo, as well as enhances the transactivation ability of the EWS amino‐terminal domain. Structural alteration of the v‐Src SH2 or SH3 domains produced mutants that could not interact with EWS/WT1 nor augment the transcriptional properties of EWS. Taken together, our results suggest the possibility that some transcriptional properties of EWS/WT1 may be regulated by a cytoplasmic signaling pathway.
On the Meaning of “Sovietology”
Authors: Unger Aryeh L.
Published: July 2002

The article attempts to explicate the meaning of “Sovietology.” It traces the origins of the term and discusses the uses to which it has been put in the scholarly literature. Two different meanings have been attached to the term. One reflects the understanding of Sovietology as the study of Soviet politics; the other views it as a “basket” of several, variously specified, disciplines in the social sciences and—less often—the humanities, distinguished by a common area orientation. The resultant ambiguity has blurred Sovietology's disciplinary identity. Now that the record of Western scholarship on the Soviet Union has become the subject of critical scrutiny and debate, it is especially important that the meaning of “Sovietology” be clearly stipulated.
An empirical analysis of the impact of federal budget deficits on long‐term nominal interest rate yields, 1973.2–1995.4, using alternative expected inflation measures
Authors: Cebula Richard J.
Published: July 2002

Using two alternative measures of expected inflation, this study investigates the impact of federal budget deficits on nominal long‐term interest rate yields for the 1973.2–1995.4 period. Based on an open‐economy loanable funds framework, four instrumental variable estimates in first differences are provided. In all cases, the budget deficit is found to elevate the nominal long‐term interest rate.
Optimization of Fermentation Conditions for Preparation of Polygalacturonic Acid Transeliminase by Erwinia carotovora IFO3830
Authors: Ding Fengping , Noritomi Hidetaka , Nagahama Kunio
Published: July 2002

This paper is concerned with optimization of the fermentation conditions for preparation of alkaline pectin lyase (poly‐galacturonic acid trans‐eliminase, PATE) by Erwinia carotovoraIFO3830 (E.C.IFO3830). The orthogonal matrix method was adopted as the experimental design method for media. The effects of media composition on the growth rate of E.C.IFO3830 are in the order of pectin > KH2PO4/Na2HPO4 > MgSO4 > (NH4)2SO4 > glucose > L‐glutamate sodium, and those on PATE activity are in the order of glucose > pectin > L‐glutamate sodium > KH2PO4/Na2HPO4 > MgSO4 > (NH4)2SO4. The strain of E.C.IFO3830 grows quickly and easily near an initial pH of 7.0, and especially at the alkaline range of pH 7.0−8.0. The growth rate profiles indicate that E.C.IFO3830 grows very quickly; its generation time t1/2 is about 0.2 h. The appropriate fermentation period is about 10−20 h for a high level productivity of biomass and 25−35 h for high productivity of PATE enzyme.
Modeling of Cryopreservation of Engineered Tissues with One‐Dimensional Geometry
Authors: Cui Z. F. , Dykhuizen R. C. , Nerem R. M. , Sembanis A.
Published: July 2002

Long‐term storage of engineered bio‐artificial tissues is required to ensure the off‐the‐shelf availability to clinicians due to their long production cycle. Cryopreservation is likely the choice for long‐term preservation. Although the cryopreservation of cells is well established for many cell types, cryopreservation of tissues is far more complicated. Cells at different locations in the tissue could experience very different local environmental changes, i.e., the change of concentration of cryoprotecting chemicals (CPA) and temperature, during the addition/removal of CPA and cooling/warming, which leads to nonuniformity in cell survival in the tissue. This is due to the limitation of mass and heat transfer within the tissue. A specific aim of cryopreservation of tissue is to ensure a maximum recovery of cells and their functionality throughout a tissue. Cells at all locations should be protected adequately by the CPA and frozen at rates conducive to survival. It is hence highly desirable to know the cell transient and final states during cryopreservation within the whole tissue, which can be best studied by mathematical modeling. In this work, a model framework for cryopreservation of one‐dimensional artificial tissues is developed on the basis of solving the coupled equations to describe the mass and heat transfer within the tissue and osmotic transport through the cell membrane. Using an artificial pancreas as an example, we carried out a simulation to examine the temperature history, cell volume, solute redistribution, and other state parameters during the freezing of the spherical heterogeneous construct (a single bead). It is found that the parameters affecting the mass transfer of CPA in tissue and through the cell membrane and the freezing rate play dominant roles in affecting the cell volume transient and extracellular ice formation. Thermal conductivity and extracellular ice formation kinetics, on the other hand, have little effect on cell transient and final states, as the heat transfer rate is much faster than mass diffusion. The outcome of such a model study can be used to evaluate the construct design on its survivability during cryopreservation and to select a cryopreservation protocol to achieve maximum cell survival.
Directed Evolution of N‐Carbamyl‐d‐amino Acid Amidohydrolase for Simultaneous Improvement of Oxidative and Thermal Stability
Authors: Oh Ki‐Hoon , Nam Sung‐Hun , Kim Hak‐Sung
Published: July 2002

Directed evolution of N‐carbamyl‐d‐amino acid amidohydrolase from Agrobacterium tumefaciens NRRL B11291 was attempted in order to simultaneously improve oxidative and thermal stability. A mutant library was generated by DNA shuffling, and positive clones with improved oxidative and thermal stability were screened on the basis of the activity staining method on a solid agar plate containing pH indicator (phenol red) and substrate ( N‐carbamyl‐d‐ p‐hydroxyphenylglycine). Two rounds of directed evolution resulted in the best mutant 2S3 with a significantly improved stability. Oxidative stability of the evolved enzyme 2S3 was about 18‐fold higher than that of the wild type, and it also showed an 8‐fold increased thermostability. The Km value of 2S3 was comparable to that of wild‐type enzyme, but kcat was slightly decreased. DNA sequence analysis revealed that six amino acid residues (Q23L, V40A, H58Y, G75S, M184L, and T262A) were substituted in 2S3. From the mutational analysis, four mutations (Q23L, H58Y, M184L, and T262A) were found to lead to an improvement of both oxidative and thermal stability. Of them, T262A had the most significant effect, and V40A and G75S only increased the oxidative stability.
Structural features of linear, homo‐Aib‐based peptides in solution: a spectroscopic and molecular mechanics investigation
Authors: Pispisa B. , Stella L. , Venanzi M. , Palleschi A. , Polese A. , Formaggio F. , Toniolo C.
Published: July 2002

Abstract: In continuation of our studies on the determination of the structural features of functionalized peptides in solution by combining time‐resolved fluorescence data and molecular mechanics results, the conformational properties of a series of linear, homo‐Aib peptides in methanol (a structure‐supporting solvent) were investigated. These compounds have the general formula P(Aib)nN, where Aib is α‐aminoisobutyric acid, N is naphthalene and P is the monomethylated protoporphyrin IX, the two latter chromophores being covalently attached to the peptide C‐ and N‐termini, respectively, while n = 3, 6 and 9. According to 1H NMR and IR spectra, the peptides investigated largely populate a 310‐helical structure in CDCl3, which is also a structure‐supporting solvent. Both steady‐state and time‐resolved fluorescence measurements show a strong quenching of the N emission that parallels an increase of the P fluorescence intensity, suggesting the occurrence of long‐range energy transfer from 1N* to ground‐state P. Comparison of quenching efficiencies and lifetime pre‐exponents with those obtained theoretically from the deepest energy minimum conformers is very satisfactory. The computed structures, built up by partially taking into account the solvent medium, exhibit a rigid, highly compact arrangement, owing to both the 310‐helix conformation of the backbone chain and the very few peptide‐to‐chromophore covalent linkages. As a result, only one or two stable conformations for each peptide were theoretically found, in full agreement with the time‐resolved fluorescence data. Orientational effects between the probes must be taken into account for a correct interpretation of the fluorescence decay results, which implies that interconversion among conformational substates of the N linkages is slower than 10 ns, corresponding to the upper limit of the energy transfer  characteristic time.
Synthetic protein design: construction of a four‐stranded β‐sheet structure and evaluation of its integrity in methanol–water systems
Authors: Das C. , Balaram P. , Nayak V. , Raghothama S.
Published: July 2002

Abstract: The characterization of a four‐stranded β‐sheet structure in a designed 26‐residue peptide Beta‐4 is described. The sequence of Beta‐4 (Arg‐Gly‐Thr‐Ile‐Lys‐Dpro‐Gly‐Ile‐Thr‐Phe‐Ala‐DPro‐Ala‐Thr‐Val‐Leu‐Phe‐Ala‐Val‐DPro‐Gly‐Lys‐Thr‐Leu‐Tyr‐Arg) was chosen such that three strategically positioned DPro‐Xxx segments nucleate type II′β‐turns, which facilitate hairpin extension. A four‐stranded β‐sheet structure is determined in methanol from 500 MHz 1H NMR data using a total of 100 observed NOEs, 11 dihedral restraints obtained from vicinal JCαH‐NH values and 10 hydrogen bonding constraints obtained from H/D exchange data. The observed NOEs provide strong evidence for a stable four‐stranded sheet and a nonpolar cluster involving Ile8, Phe10, Val15 and Phe17. Circular dichroism studies in water–methanol mixtures provide evidence for melting of the β‐sheet structure at high water concentrations. NMR analysis establishes that the four‐stranded sheet in Beta‐4 is appreciably populated in 50% (v/v) aqueous methanol. In water, the peptide structure is disorganized, although the three β‐turn nuclei appear to be maintained.
Urinary eosinophil protein X in children with asthma: Influence of atopy and airway infections
Authors: Øymar Knut , Bjerknes Robert
Published: July 2002

It has been suggested that urinary eosinophil protein X (U‐EPX) can be used to monitor bronchial inflammation in childhood asthma. However, the influence of atopy and airway infections is not well elucidated. To determine the clinical value of measuring U‐EPX in children with asthma and to evaluate the influence of atopy and airway infections, U‐EPX was measured in 170 children with asthma (mean age 69 months, range 12–179 months), in 79 children with lower or upper respiratory tract infections (mean age 41 months, range 1–165 months), and in 64 controls. U‐EPX was elevated in children with acute asthma (median 132 µg/mmol of creatinine, quartiles 77–195 µg/mmol of creatinine, n = 51, p < 0.001) and chronic asthma (median 93 µg/mmol of creatinine; quartiles 46–149 µg/mmol of creatinine, n = 119, p < 0.01) compared with controls (median 54 µg/mmol of creatinine; quartiles 40–89 µg/mmol of creatinine, n = 39). Atopic children had higher levels of U‐EPX than non‐atopics with acute asthma (median 155 µg/mmol of creatinine, quartiles 113–253 µg/mmol of creatinine, n = 27, vs. median 102 µg/mmol of creatinine, quartiles 56–168 µg/mmol of creatinine, n = 24, p < 0.05), as well as with chronic asthma (median 110 µg/mmol of creatinine, quartiles 65–162 µg/mmol of creatinine, n = 63, vs. median 60 µg/mmol of creatinine, quartiles 39–123 µg/mmol of creatinine, n = 56, p < 0.01). In chronic asthma, children without atopy had levels of U‐EPX similar to values of controls; levels were similar in symptomatic and asymptomatic patients, and not influenced by treatment with inhaled corticosteroids. Moreover, U‐EPX levels were higher in children with pneumonia (median 207 µg/mmol of creatinine, quartiles 111–280 µg/mmol of creatinine, n = 35, p < 0.001), laryngitis (median 109 µg/mmol of creatinine, quartiles 65–161 µg/mmol of creatinine, n = 24, p < 0.01), and rhinitis (median 172 µg/mmol of creatinine, quartiles 123–254 µg/mmol of creatinine, n = 19, p < 0.001) than in controls (median 62 µg/mmol of creatinine, quartiles 41–93 µg/mmol of creatinine, n = 64). There was significant overlap among all groups of children with disease, as well as between children with disease and controls. Hence, U‐EPX may reflect differences in eosinophil involvement and activation between children with atopic and non‐atopic asthma, but the individual spread within groups and the influence of airway infections limits the clinical value of U‐EPX in childhood asthma.
Labelling of skin sensitizers: the new European Dangerous Preparations Directive
Authors: Roggeband R. , Basketter D. A. , De Groot A. C. , Robinson M. K. , Gerberick G. F.
Published: July 2002

The new Dangerous Preparations Directive (DPD, 1999/45/EC) introduces a special labelling requirement for skin sensitizers in products that are regulated under this Directive. The packaging of products containing 0.1% of a sensitizer must bear the inscription “Contains ‘name of sensitizer’. May produce an allergic reaction.” The aim is to protect individuals already sensitized by providing information which enables them to avoid products containing ingredients which may elicit their allergy. However, this is only of benefit where such sensitized individuals do exist in the population. Moreover, this labelling requirement does not take into account the potency of the skin sensitizer. For each sensitizer and type of skin exposure, there will be levels below which it will not elicit allergic contact dermatitis reactions in individuals who are sensitized to that chemical. We therefore propose that within the new DPD, it should be possible to override this labelling requirement with well‐documented data, to ensure that information provided to the consumer on the product label is not misleading. The current implementation in the DPD of what is in principle a good idea means that further action (legislative changes; scope for derogation) is needed if the potential benefits are not to be lost.
Cell surface heparan sulfate proteoglycans
Authors: Brucato Sylvie , Bocquet Jean , Villers Corinne
Published: July 2002

Basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) regulates diversified biological functions in rat Sertoli cells. This report demonstrates that bFGF inhibits steroidogenesis in developing rat Sertoli cells. Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH)‐stimulated estradiol production was reduced by bFGF. Moreover, the amount of cytochrome P450 aromatase, responsible for the irreversible transformation of androgens into estrogens, is decreased by bFGF at the transcriptional level. The bFGF inhibitory effect was also observed in the presence of dibutyryl‐cAMP, cholera toxin or RO‐20‐1724, all inducing high levels of cAMP, the second messenger of FSH.

Heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPGs) were shown to be required as cofactors for bFGF signaling. Indeed, sodium chlorate, described to drastically decrease proteoglycan sulfation, abolishes the bFGF downregulation of FSH‐stimulated estradiol synthesis previously observed. Glypican‐1, syndecan‐1 and ‐4, potential bFGF coreceptors, are mainly regulated at the transcriptional level. This report shows that the bFGF regulation of their expression specifically depends on the nature of HSPG and of the Sertoli cell developmental stage.

In conclusion, HSPG are partners and the target of bFGF in rat Sertoli cells.
The decomposition of cocoa leaves and their effect on phosphorus dynamics in tropical soil
Authors: Ofori‐Frimpong K. , Rowell D. L.
Published: July 2002

Higher‐yielding varieties of cocoa make heavier demands on phosphorus resources in soils and so it is important that the role of leaf litter in cycling P is understood. Fresh cocoa leaves and leaf litter were incubated moist with a soil inoculum for 80 days when between 16 and 33% of the mass was lost. Materials containing large amounts of P or incubated with added inorganic P initially decomposed more rapidly than those containing smaller amounts, indicating that decomposition was limited by lack of P. Fresh leaves had half of their P in an acid‐soluble (0.1 m H2SO4) form, most of which was also water soluble, whereas in the litters about a third was acid‐soluble. During incubation, P‐rich materials showed an increase in the acid‐soluble fraction and a decrease in water‐soluble P. Litters with small concentrations of P simply lost P from the acid‐soluble into the non‐soluble organic fraction, and no water‐soluble P remained after 80 days.

–A soil from a cocoa‐growing site fertilized with P contained almost four times as much biomass P as the non‐fertilized control (30 and 8 mg kg–1 soil, respectively), the amounts of bicarbonate‐extractable P being 32 and 4 mg kg–1. Soils from these and one other cocoa‐growing site (8 mg kg–1 biomass P, 7 mg kg–1 bicarbonate‐extractable P) were incubated either alone, with cocoa litter, or with cocoa litter plus inorganic P. In the soil that had the small amount of NaHCO3‐extractable P (4 mg kg–1) addition of litter caused the biomass P to increase from 8 to 16 mg kg–1 after 1 week's incubation, the increase being larger than the amount of P added in the litter, but in the other two soils biomass P was not increased. Addition of inorganic P had no effect on biomass P in any of the soils.

–Decomposing litter may compete with the crop for P, but addition of fertilizer P may increase the rate of mineralization of organic P in the litter. Suitable management of fertilizer P should allow the rate of release of P from the litter to be adjusted to suit crop demands.
PREVALENCE AND AETIOLOGY OF LYMPHOEDEMA AFTER BREAST CANCER TREATMENT IN SOUTHERN TASMANIA
Authors: Edwards Thomas L.
Published: July 2002

Background: Lymphoedema can be a devastating complication of surgical treatment for breast cancer. There is a lack of research on its prevalence in Australia which has hindered the development of measures to combat the condition. The aims of this study were to establish the prevalence and investigate the aetiology of upper limb lymphoedema in women treated for breast cancer in the years 1994–1996 in southern Tasmania.

Methods: A standard volumetric water displacement technique was used to measure the arms of 201 women. A subjective assessment of swelling was also made by each patient. Factors analysed for statistical association with lymphoedema were: patient characteristics, type of treatment and tumour, and lymph node pathology.

Results: The overall objective prevalence rate, regardless of treatment type, was 11%; whereas, the subjective rate was 23.4%. The objective prevalence for procedures involving axillary surgery was 14.2%. Significant statistical associations were found between arm size and body mass index at time of assessment (r = 0.15, P = 0.04); type of surgery (Chi‐squared test = 11.06, P = 0.05); surgery to axilla (U = 2515.5, P = 0.002); tumour size (r = 0.17, P = 0.03); and tumour grade (Chi‐squared test = 6.51, P = 0.04). No significant relationship was found between lymphoedema and axillary irradiation, number of lymph nodes removed, age or handedness of the patient.

Conclusions: Women receiving axillary dissection as part of their breast cancer treatment carry a significant risk of developing lymphoedema, regardless of the extent of surgery. The causative role of axillary irradiation was not supported. Future research should concentrate on less invasive alternatives to axillary dissection, such as sentinal lymph node biopsy.
AXILLARY DISSECTION AND DUCTAL CARCINOMA IN SITU OF THE BREAST: A CHANGE IN PRACTICE
Authors: Kitchen P. R. B. , Cawson J. N. , Krishnan C. M. , Barbetti T. M. , Henderson M. A.
Published: July 2002

Background: Axillary dissection may be associated with significant morbidity and, while it is necessary in the treatment of invasive breast cancer, is not indicated for the treatment of pure ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), although it is being performed in a significant number of cases. The present study examined the incidence of elective axillary dissection in the treatment of DCIS cases detected in a mammographic screening programme over a 4‐year period, and whether surgeons have changed their practice in this respect.

Methods: BreastScreen Victoria records were examined retrospectively for the period from January 1995 to December 1998 to identify patients treated for DCIS. The incidence and indications for axillary surgery were investigated.

Results: There were 579 cases of DCIS and 93 (16%) had some form of axillary surgery, which was thought to be inappropriate in 57 (10%), the latter being performed by 21 city surgeons and 20 rural surgeons. Before surgery, 36 (63%) cases were diagnosed by core biopsy or excision, and 21 (37%) had imaging and cytology alone for diagnosis. The rate of unnecessary axillary dissections dropped steadily from 14% in 1995 to 4% in 1998, a significant reduction (P = 0.01).

Conclusion: The incidence of axillary dissection for DCIS has dropped significantly over the last 4 years in Victoria, possibly due to increased awareness through education and guidelines. Surgeons are now more aware that in situ lesions do not need axillary dissection, and that axillary dissection should not be performed for breast cancer unless invasion has been proved histologically.
CHILDHOOD POST‐STREPTOCOCCAL GLOMERULONEPHRITIS IS A DETERMINATE OF CHRONIC RENAL DISEASE IN LATER LIFE
Authors: A White , W Hoy , B Hayhurst , D. McCredie
Published: July 2002

Background: An epidemic of end‐stage renal disease is occurring in Aboriginal people. Post streptococcal glomerulonephritis (PSGN) associated with pyoderma, occurs frequently in Aboriginal children, although it is virtually eliminated in the rest of Australia. We examined the association between PSGN in childhood and the development of chronic renal disease in later life.

Methods: In a remote coastal community in the Northern Territory, we established a historical cohort of children who were aged 2‐15 years during epidemic PSGN in 1980 and 1987. History of PSGN during the epidemics was defined using clinical criteria from the original medical records. a) PSGN: haematuria/proteinuria plus oedema or hypertension n = 63 b) haematuria or proteinuria only n = 87, and c) controls: normal examination and urinalysis n = 89, or normal examination without urinalysis n = 135 or not seen n = 98. The main outcome measure, urine albumin to creatinine ratio ACR, was measured in these people at a mean time of 14 years after the epidemics and at a mean age of 20 yrs, range 8‐33.

Results: Proportions with albuminuria at follow‐up.

All n = 472

Controls n = 322

Haem/prot n = 87<

PSGN n = 63

ACR ≥ 3.4
22%
18%
31%
32%

ACR ≥ 34
6%
4%
8%
13%

The relative risk (RR) for overt albuminuria (ACR ≥ 34) in those with a remote episode of PSGN compared to controls is 4.2 (95% CI 1.9‐9), after adjustment for age and sex, and the population attributable risk (PAR) is 32% (90% CI 11‐49). The RR of microalbuminuria (ACR ≥ 3.4) is 2.1 (95% CI 1.4‐3.1) and the PAR 14% (90% CI 6‐22). There were no differences in blood pressure, creatinine or calculated GFR.

Conclusion: In this population, PSGN in childhood is a powerful risk factor for the development of albuminuria in early adult life.
The clinical utility of measuring free‐to‐total prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) ratio and PSA density in differentiating between benign prostatic hyperplasia and prostate cancer
Authors: KochaÑska‐Dziurowicz  , Mielniczuk  , Stojko  , Kaletka
Published: July 2002

Objective

 To evaluate the role of free‐to‐total prostate‐specific antigen ratio (f/tPSA), prostate volume and PSA density in differentiating between men with prostate cancer and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

Patients and methods

 The study comprised 51 patients who were assessed after transurethral electroresection of the prostate (16 with prostate cancer and 35 with BPH). Patients with a tPSA of ≤4.0 ng/mL and ≥30.0 ng/mL were excluded from the analysis. Total and fPSA were measured using an immunoradiometric assay and prostate volume was determined by transrectal ultrasonography. The incidence of prostate cancer and BPH was then compared with the PSA variables to determine specificity and predictive value.

Results

 Most patients with BPH had a tPSA of 4.0–6.0 ng/mL; no patients with BPH had a tPSA of >20.0 ng/mL. Most patients with prostate cancer had a f/tPSA of 6–10%. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for f/tPSA was significantly greater than that for tPSA (P<0.003).

Conclusions

 The measurement of f/tPSA and PSA density increase the specificity of the differential diagnosis between BPH and prostate cancer.
Predicting head circumference at birth: a study in a Dutch population using the Rossavik growth model
Authors: Kurniawan Y. S. , Deter R. L. , Visser G. H. A.
Published: July 2002

The use of the Rossavik growth model for predicting neonatal head circumference from data obtained from two ultrasound scans before 28 weeks' menstrual age was investigated in 50 pregnant women with singleton pregnancy in a Dutch population. The head circumference predicted at 38, 39, 39.5 and 40 weeks' gestation and at birth was compared to the head circumference observed at birth. The accuracy was expressed in percentage difference and the growth potential realization index (GPRIHC) was used as an indicator of growth outcome.

The predictions at 39.5 weeks and 40 weeks were accurate without systematic error. Prediction at 38 weeks showed a statistical underprediction (mean ± SD = −2.3 ± 2.0%, p < 0.05) and at birth a systematic overprediction (mean ± SD = +1.4 ± 2.1%, p < 0.05). Based on the regression analyses of percentage differences against birth ages, the growth of the head circumference appeared to stop at about 39.5 weeks. The results of the present study were compared to studies of populations in the United States. The growth of the head circumference before 28 weeks was similar in all samples studied, but growth cessation was at 38 weeks in the fetuses in the USA and at 39.5 weeks in these Dutch fetuses. The mean values of GPRIHC were not different from 100% in all samples studied and the ranges were similar (mean, 100.3% range, 97–103% in the present study). Copyright © 1995 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology
Influences of monocular image degradation on the monocular components of fixation disparity
Authors: Irving E. L. , Robertson K. M.
Published: July 2002

The monocular components of the forced vergence fixation disparity curve were evaluated for equal retinal images and for two kinds of monocular retinal image degradation. Computer‐generated nonius lines were used to measure the fixation disparity curve components. Monocular defocus was obtained by placing convex lenses before one eye. In the second instance monocular image degradation was achieved by placing light‐scattering filters before one eye. A small percentage of subjects displayed unequal distribution of the monocular components of fixation disparity with no image degradation. For both conditions of monocular image degradation, the distribution of the monocular components was found to be biased in favor of the clear image. However, defocus, which affects the high spatial frequencies relatively more than scatter, was found to have a greater effect on the distribution of the monocular components of fixation disparity than scatter.
Electrolyte and pH Dependence of Heart Rate During Hemodialysis: A Computer Model Analysis
Authors: Severi Stefano , Cavalcanti Silvio
Published: July 2002

Abstract: The influence of hemodialysis‐induced modifications in extracellular fluid characteristics on heart rate was investigated by using a detailed computer model of sinus‐node electrical activity. Changes similar to those occurring in the course of hemodialysis in extracellular concentrations of sodium (from 138 to 140 mM), potassium (from 6 to 3.3 mM), and calcium (from 1.2 to 1.5 mM) ions as well as in pH (from 7.31 to 7.4) and intracellular volume were simulated. The model predicted that such changes may largely influence the rhythm of the sinoatrial node pacemaker, causing the heart rate to range from 69 to 86 bpm. Heart rate increases after removing potassium (up to 7 bpm) and also after calcium perfusion (up to 11 bpm) whereas restoring pH slows heart beat (up to 6 bpm). Extracellular sodium has no significant influence, but the heart rate strictly depends on intracellular sodium concentration (5 bpm/mM). A complex dependence of heart rate on electrolytes and pH was also recognized. Providing extracellular potassium concentration is maintained above 5 mM, heart rate exhibits low sensitivity to changes in calcium and potassium. When potassium concentration is reduced below 4.5 mM, heart rate sensitivity to calcium and potassium increases significantly to 10 and 30 bpm/mM, respectively. A sustained increase in heart rate always corresponds to an increase in intracellular sodium concentration.
A CASE OF “NORMAL” RADICULOPATHY
Authors: Francia A. , Restante R. , Finamore L. , Barrella M. , Manfredi M.
Published: July 2002

We followed up a woman, aged 58, presenting with difficulty in fine finger movements, moderate‐to‐severe strength deficit at right thumb opposition, and ipsilateral thenar and hypothenar atrophy, but no pain or loss of sensibility. A series of electromyograms performed between November 1996 and June 1997 pointed to motor polyneuropathy with conduction block. Lumbar puncture was negative and routine blood chemistry showed erythrosedimentation rate to oscillate between normal and increased values. Antinuclear and antiendomysium autoantibodies were present, but anti‐GM1 autoantibodies were negative. Cervical CT scan showed right C5‐C6 and C6‐C7 foraminal stenosis supported by joint hypertrophy.

The patient was subjected to intravenous immunoglobulin infusion and gluten‐free diet with no improvement. Subsequent clinical follow up and electromyograms showed no conduction block or multiple motor involvement. A suspected diagnosis of round pronator syndrome was ruled out by neurophysiological data, clinical examination, and history. X‐ray with oblique projections and magnetic resonance imaging confirmed CT data. Currently, the same localised deficits persist, with no extension to other districts; a mild improvement was seen after kinesiotherapy.

This case was complicated by initial misdiagnosis of neuropathy of immunological origin, due to overestimation of nonspecific or isolated laboratory data. In this case, simply focusing on X‐ray data and greater attention to clinical examination and reported symptoms allowed a correct diagnosis of “simple” cervical radiculopathy.
A FAMILY WITH AUTOSOMAL DOMINANT MUTILATING NEUROPATHY NOT LINKED TO EITHER 3q13‐q22 OR 9q22 LOCI
Authors: Bellone E. , Di Maria E. , Cassandrini D. , Rodolico C. , Mazzeo A. , Girlanda P. , Vita G. , Pizzuti A. , Toscano A. , Ajmar F. , Mandich P.
Published: July 2002

The clinical separation of CMT2 from HSAN I may be difficult in some kindreds in which the sensory and motor symptoms and deficits are approximately alike. The genetic studies of CMT2 families are also controversial: one form of CMT2 was shown to map on chromosome 3q13‐q22 and named CMT2B; the HSAN I locus was mapped to 9q22.1. We describe a family with an autosomal dominant inheritance in which at least three members, belonging to three generations, developed a progressive neuropathy that combined limb weakness, wasting, and severe distal sensory loss leading to prominent mutilating changes. The onset was in late childhood, with progressive weakness in the lower limbs and later in the hands, resulting in a severe paralysis in the feet in one patient. Sensory disturbances were pronounced in 2 patients, and led to poorly healing ulcerations with osteomyelitis and amputations in one foot and mutilating lesions of both hands. Electrophysiological investigation revealed an axonopaty with consistent motor damage. Sural nerve biopsy showed a reduction in the density of both myelinated and unmyelinated fibers, with regenerating clusters.

Linkage analysis using 5 microsatellite markers within to the critical 9q22 region was performed. Lod scores of this family calculated by LINKAGE package excluded association to this locus. We also performed linkage studies with chr. 3q13‐q22 markers associated to the CMT2b locus. Lod scores excluded this locus as well as responsiblity of the familial phenotype. The severity of motor involvement would suggest classifying the disorder of this family as a form of HSMN II rather than HSAN, indicating that a new locus is involved in the pathogenesis of this disorder.
PACLITAXEL NEUROTOXICITY: ANTI‐APOPTOTIC EFFECT OF RESVERATROL
Authors: Miloso M. , Rigolio R. , Nicolini G. , Crimi M. , Donzelli E. , Di Silvestro A. , Cavaletti G. , Tredici G
Published: July 2002

We have demonstrated in the SH‐SY5Y human neuroblastoma cell line that the antineoplastic drug paclitaxel induces apoptosis associated with the phosphorylation of c‐raf and Bcl‐2, thus causing Bcl‐2 inactivation. In addition, we have observed the cleavage of caspase 7 and PARP, and the involvement of JNK/SAPK cascade.

In this study, we investigated the possible anti‐apoptotic effect of resveratrol on paclitaxel‐induced apoptosis. Resveratrol is a natural antioxidant occurring in grapes and wine that as been shown to have anticancer and anti‐inflammatory effects. Studies on the effect(s) of resveratrol on nervous cells are very few and limited to testing its ability in preventing oxidative stress in rat pheocromocytoma PC12 cells. However, the biological and pharmacological properties of resveratrol suggest that this natural compound might act on neuronal cells with a mode of action that is different from the antioxidant ones. To confirm this hypothesis, we studied the possible antagonist effect(s) of resveratrol on paclitaxel‐induced apoptosis pathways.

Our results indicate that the simultaneous treatment of 50M resveratrol and 1M paclitaxel induces a significant reduction of the percentage of apoptotic cells in comparison with 1M paclitaxel alone. Furthermore, we have demonstrated that resveratrol treatment determines a significant reduction of the phosphorylation of c‐raf and Bcl‐2 and a partial reduction of cleavage of caspase 7 and PARP. Finally, we observed an evident reduction of activation of JNK/SAPK in the presence of resveratrol. On the contrary, resveratrol does not affect the tubulin polymerization induced by paclitaxel.

In conclusion, our results suggest that resveratrol is able to partially antagonize a nonoxidative stress apoptotic stimulus by influencing the typical signal pathways involved in apoptosis.
POSSIBLE USE OF SYMPATHETIC SKIN RESPONSE AND THERMOGRAPHY IN ASSESSING THE EFFECTS OF SYMPATHECTOMY: A CASE REPORT
Authors: Buonocore M. , Bettaglio R. , Bodini A. , Miotti D. , Mazzucchi G. , Bonezzi C.
Published: July 2002

The objective assessment of sympathectomy is clinically difficult. Its success is usually judged in terms of patient's improvement.

Aim: This study tested the hypothesis of possible use of Thermography and Sympathetic Skin Response (SSR) in assessing the effects of sympathectomy.

Case history: A man suffering from chronic, disabling palmar hyperhidrosis underwent a bilateral, localised, endoscopic resection of the thoracic sympathetic chain, immediately below the second thoracic ganglion. After the operation he had a significant reduction of palmar hyperhidrosis, but he did not feel satisfied with the operation due to distal paresthesias associated with thermal allodynia in the upper limbs and excessive, troublesome compensatory sweating of the trunk and lower limbs. We evaluated him fifteen months after the operation and symptoms were still present. Standard neurological examination was normal apart from a mild heat hyperesthesia in the distal portions of upper limbs.

Methods: SSR was evoked by auditory, alerting stimuli and recorded simultaneously from palm and sole bilaterally. We preferred to use auditory stimulation because of the low variability of SSR waveform usually obtained with this method. The amplitude of SSR in the palm and sole were measured and a palm/sole ratio was calculated. Total body thermography was also performed.

Results: A clear reduction in SSR palm/sole ratio was observed. Thermography showed a thoracic thermal level with the upper part of the body being warmer than the lower.

Conclusion: Judging from the results obtained in this single case, both SSR and Thermography appear to be objective, simple, noninvasive tools for assessment of thoracic simpathectomy effectiveness. Studies on a large population of patients are needed.
DIFFERENT PATHOGENESIS OF THALIDOMIDE NEUROPATHY IN MULTIPLE MYELOMA.
Authors: Isoardo G. , Cocito D. , Barbero P. , Ciaramitaro P. , Bergui M. , Bertola A. , Giaccone L. , Boccadoro M. , Bergamasco B. , Durelli L.
Published: July 2002

Background: In the past few years thalidomide became one of the most interesting chemotherapeutic drugs in the treatment of multiple myeloma. However a predominantly sensory neuropathy is a well‐known side effect of thalidomide in a substantial amount of patients. Peripheral nerve damage resulted to be at lest partially reversible only in 50% of cases suggesting a possible toxic effect on dorsal rot ganglion neurons. Spinal cord MRI was indicated as a useful tool in the diagnosis of sensory ganglionopathy. We described MRI findings in 6 patients with thalidomide neuropathy and multiple myeloma. Patients: Six patients (4 men, 2 women, mean age 61.2 ± 8.6 years) were included: two had non‐secretory, 3 osteolytic and 1 osteosclerotic myeloma. Thalidomide was administered orally at a dose of 200 mg/day in 4 patients, and at a dose of 100 mg/day in 2. All patients where asymptomatic for peripheral neuropathy before treatment. Five of them were previously treated with vincristine and 4 with cisplatin, both at low doses. Positive sensory symptoms developed 6 to 19 months after treatment beginning: all patients had paresthesia; 2 had pain in stocking and glove distribution. One patient developed sensory ataxia. On nerve conduction studies, all patients had decreased or absent sensory action potential both at upper and lower limbs. Methods: Cervical spine routine MRI was performed in all patients with a 1 T system, with sagittal T2 FSE spin echo (TR/TE excitations 3909 /  112), axial gradient echo (630/22/30)—weighted images. Results: Cervical spine MRI was normal in 5 patients. In 1 patient, however, MRI disclosed a small T2‐weighted high signal intensity in the posterior columns. Discussion: Our results suggest that thalidomide could have a different toxic effect on the peripheral nervous system than on dorsal root ganglion neurons and axons.
NON‐UNIFORM CONDUCTION SLOWING IN X‐LINKED DOMINANT CHARCOT‐MARIE‐TOOTH DISEASE (CMTX)
Authors: Capasso M. , Di Muzio A. , Cavallaro T. , Taioli F. , Fabrizi G.M. , Uncini A.
Published: July 2002

In hereditary demyelinating neuropathies conduction slowing has been reported to be uniform between and within nerves. This practical criterion has been used in the differential diagnosis with acquired demyelinating disorders. We report a 55‐year‐old man complaining of weakness and paresthesias of right hand and weakness of right leg. Examination showed bilateral pes cavus, difficulty to walk on heels, mild distal weakness in upper limbs, more on the right, and reduced reflexes in lower limbs. CSF was normal. Electrophysiological study showed a demyelinating sensory‐motor polyneuropathy with non‐uniform slowing of motor conduction, abnormal amplitude reduction with temporal dispersion of proximal motor responses in median and ulnar nerves. Sural biopsy was consistent with a demyelinating neuropathy. Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) was diagnosed and the patient treated with prednisone with improvement of paresthesias. Four years later the patient's brother, 57 years old, was referred for cramps, fasciculations and paresthesias in extremities. Examination showed mild distal weakness and atrophy, pes cavus, and reduced or absent reflexes. CSF examination showed slightly increased proteins and conduction slowing was uniform. Molecular analysis revealed in both patients an Arg(15)Gln Cx32 mutation.

Non‐uniform conduction slowing has been recently re‐ ported in a CMTX family with Arg(15)Trp mutation (same codon of our patients) and in a woman with a non sense mutation at codon 102. The possibility of a CIDP‐like electrophysiological pattern in some CMTX patients should be kept in mind to avoid misdiagnoses.
Efficient Identification of Arabidopsis Knock‐Out Mutants Using DNA‐Arrays of Transposon Flanking Sequences
Authors: Steiner‐Lange S. , Gremse M. , Kuckenberg M. , Nissing E. , Schächtele D. , Spenrath N. , Wolff M. , Saedler H. , Dekker K.
Published: July 2002

Abstract: Mutants obtained by insertional mutagenesis are widely used for determining gene‐phenotype relationships. In Arabidopsis thaliana, several populations mutagenized either by T‐DNA or transposon insertion are available for screening for knockout mutants in genes of interest. We have so far screened our Arabidopsis population mutagenized with the Zea mays transposon En‐1/Spm for insertion mutations in 718 genes, using PCR on DNA pools. Although successful, this common approach is too time consuming for use in systematic screening of all 25 498 predicted genes of the Arabidopsis genome. We therefore investigated the use of DNA arrays for the direct identification of mutants in our population. All transposon‐flanking regions from individual plants are amplified by PCR and subsequently spotted at high density onto nylon membranes. A single hybridization experiment with a gene‐specific probe then allows one to identify candidate mutant plants. The efficiency of each separate step was determined and optimized. Screening of filters representing 2880 plants for insertions in 144 genes and subsequent investigation of some of the potential insertion mutants suggest that an overall screening efficiency of 50 % is attained.
A Novel System for Spectral Analysis of Solar Radiation within a Mixed Beech‐Spruce Stand
Authors: Reitmayer H. , Werner H. , Fabian P.
Published: July 2002

Abstract: A multi‐sensor system is described, based on a 1024 channel diode array spectrometer, to measure spectral radiant flux density in the range of 380 nm to 850 nm, with a resolution of 0.8 nm in minimal 16 milliseconds integration time per sensor (noon, clear sky conditions). 264 space‐integrating 4π sensors deployed in the canopies and 2 m above stand floor are sequentially connected to the spectrometer by means of 30‐m long fibre optics. During low‐level conditions (dawn, overcast sky) the system automatically lengthens the integration time of the spectrometer. About 3 sec per sensor, i.e., 13 min for the total of 264 sensors (worst case) are needed to collect spectral energy data, store them on hard disk and move the channel multiplexer to the next fibre optic position. The detection limit of quartz fibre sensors is 0.2 W/m2; precision and absolute error of radiant flux density are smaller than 3 % and 10 %, respectively.

The system, operating since 1999, is derived from a 20‐sensor pilot system developed for PAR measurements (PMMA fibre sensor, 400nm to 700 nm).

Data achieved with the system serve to determine vertical profiles of wavelength dependent radiation extinction, with special respect to R/FR ratios and to develop a model of spectral radiation distribution in a mature forest stand, prerequisites for the computation of carbon gain of the stand and the evaluation of stand growth models.
Subpicosecond carrier lifetimes in GaAs grown by molecular beam epitaxy at low substrate temperature
Authors: Krotkus A. , Viselga R. , Bertulis K. , Jasutis V. , Marcinkevičius S. , Olin U.
Published: July 2002

Time-resolved photoluminescence transients of low-temperature molecular beam epitaxially grown GaAs layers have been measured with femtosecond temporal resolution and compared with numerical Monte Carlo calculations. It has been shown that the shape of these transients measured at different emission energies is determined not only by the carrier lifetime but also by the electron redistribution in the conduction band. Analysis of the experimental results yields the carrier lifetime in the investigated samples of 400 fs.
NMR Fresnel transform imaging technique using a quadratic nonlinear field gradient
Authors: Yamada Yoshifumi , Tanaka Kunio , Abe Zenmon
Published: July 2002

A new NMR imaging technique using a quadratic nonlinear field gradient is described. The center position of the nonlinear field gradient where the field intensity is minimum is moved spatially at a fixed amount in each imaging pulse sequence to produce nonlinear phase encoding as a function of position. A NMR image is reconstructed from the collected data by the computer data processing. The principle of this technique and many experimental results using a low field imaging system operating at 0.0192 T are presented. Theoretical and experimental comparison of the S/N of the image in this technique with that of the conventional Fourier imaging technique are made and the results show that both techniques have almost the same S/N. Moreover, the theoretical and experimental results show that this technique has a feasibility of a spatially localized imaging without using a conventional localization technique such as the use of the selective excitation in the presence of a linear field gradient.
The 100-kV gas and metal ion source for high current ion implantation
Authors: Bugaev S. P. , Nikolaev A. G. , Oks E. M. , Schanin P. M. , Yushkov G. Yu.
Published: July 2002

The TITAN ion source is a new kind of source which can produce high current beams of both metal and gas ions simultaneously or separately. Ion beams of the elements Mg, Al, Ti, Ca, Cr, Fe, Co, Ni, Zn, Sn, Ta, Re, Y, C, He, N, Ar, and Xe have been generated. To obtain metal ions a vacuum arc is used in metal vapors created in ‘‘cathode spots.’’ To obtain gas ions a contragated arc discharge in gas current is used. The source extraction voltage is controlled within 10–100 kV. The ion current of both gas and metal was ≂1 A. The source operates in a frequency-pulse regime at a pulse-repetition frequency as high as 50 pps. At its normal operation the source provides a dose of 1016 ions/cm2 per minute on a 250-cm2 area surface. The source is constructed according to the program on development of new technologies and is intended for high current surface modification and production of exotic surface alloys. At present, TITAN ion sources are utilized to modify physical-mechanical parameters of different surfaces. Here we outline the ion source and its performance.
p- to n-type conversion in GaSb by ion beam milling
Authors: Panin G. N. , Dutta P. S. , Piqueras J. , Dieguez E.
Published: July 2002

Inversion in conductivity type of GaSb from p- to n- has been observed as a result of argon ion beam milling. Electron beam induced current (EBIC) measurements have been employed for detecting the type conversion. Enhancement in the luminescence intensity is seen after ion beam treatment. The type conversion is proposed to occur due to a combined effect of generation of native donors and gettering of native acceptors originally present in the as-grown samples.