bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pediatric liver tumors and hepatic ontogenesis: Common and distinctive pathways
Authors: Zimmermann Arthur
Published: October 2002

Several types of pediatric liver tumors exhibit structural features apparently reflecting processes which normally occur during hepatic ontogenesis: some hepatoblastomas mimic distinct phases of hepatogenesis, including the formation of mesenchymal structures closely associated with immature epithelia, and there are tumors almost exclusively consisting of complex mesenchymal patterns. Current classifications of hepatoblastomas refer to the identification of more or less mature (differentiated) single or mixed components seen in histologic preparations. These do not, however, attempt to integrate ontogenic pathways, in contrast for example, to nephroblastoma and associated lesions, where such a view has proved to be highly fruitful. Based on the fact that an enormous amount of knowledge has recently been accumulated regarding hepatic ontogensis, time may have come to look at these tumors with a new eye. In what follows, we aim at trying to analyze distinct features of pediatric hepatic tumors (except vascular tumors) within the background of ontogenesis. Some key steps of hepatogenesis and the regulatory factors involved may, in the future, deliver an armamentarium to search for novel molecular mechnisms involved in tumorigenic pathways. Med Pediatr Oncol 2002;39:492–503. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Gαs levels regulate Xenopus laevis oocyte maturation
Authors: Romo Ximena , Hinrichs M. Victoria , Guzmán Leonardo , Olate Juan
Published: October 2002

Progesterone, produced by follicular cells, induces Xenopus laevis oocyte maturation through a very early event that inhibits the activity of the adenylyl cyclase effector system. The participation of a G‐protein has been implicated, based on the fact that the inhibitory effect of the steroid is GTP‐dependent, and it has been proposed that progesterone acts interfering with Gαs function at the plasma membrane. Here we investigate whether the change in oocyte Gαs levels affects the maturation process induced by progesterone. Overexpression of X. laevis wild type (wt) Gαs and the constitutive activated Gαs(QL) mutant, both blocked progesterone‐induced maturation, Gαs(QL) being much more effective than the wt protein. On the other hand, depletion of Gαs, by the use of antisense oligonucleotides, caused spontaneous maturation measured as MAPK activation, indicating clearly that the presence of Gαs is necessary to keep oocytes arrested. Overexpression of three different G‐protein coupled receptors (GPCR), the β2‐adrenergic receptor and the m4 and m5 muscarinic receptors, all caused inhibition of MAPK activation induced by progesterone. These receptors, upon their activation with the respective ligands, might be inducing the release of Gβγ from their respective Gα, which together with endogenous Gαs‐GTP, activate adenylyl cyclase. Our results indicate that Gαs plays an important role in the maturation process and support previous findings of Gβγ participation, suggesting the presence of a mechanism where a constitutively activated Gαs subunit, together with the Gβγ heterodimer, both maintain high levels of intracellular cAMP levels, blocking the G2/M transition. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 63: 104–109, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Ran, a GTP‐binding protein involved in nucleocytoplasmic transport and microtubule nucleation, relocates from the manchette to the centrosome region during rat spermiogenesis
Authors: Kierszenbaum Abraham L. , Gil Mara , Rivkin Eugene , Tres Laura L.
Published: October 2002

Ran, a Ras‐related GTPase, is required for transporting proteins in and out of the nucleus during interphase and for regulating the assembly of microtubules. cDNA cloning shows that rat testis, like mouse testis, expresses both somatic and testis‐specific forms of Ran–GTPase. The presence of a homologous testis‐specific form of Ran–GTPase in rodents implies that the Ran–GTPase pathway plays a significant role during sperm development. This suggestions is supported by distinct Ran–GTPase immunolocalization sites identified in developing spermatids. Confocal microscopy demonstrates that Ran–GTPase localizes in the nucleus of round spermatids and along the microtubules of the manchette in elongating spermatids. When the manchette disassembles, Ran–GTPase immunoreactivity is visualized in the centrosome region of maturing spermatids. The circumstantial observation that fractionated manchettes, containing copurified centrin‐immunoreactive centrosomes, can organize a three‐dimensional lattice in the presence of taxol and GTP, points to the role of Ran–GTPase and associated factors in microtubule nucleation as well as the potential nucleating function of spermatid centrosomes undergoing a reduction process. Electron microscopy demonstrates the presence in manchette preparations of spermatid centrosomes, recognized as such by their association with remnants of the implantation fossa, a dense plate observed only at the basal surface of developing spermatid and sperm nuclei. In addition, we have found importin β1 immunoreactivity in the nucleus of elongating spermatids, a finding that, together with the presence of Ran–GTPase in the nucleus of round spermatids and the manchette, suggest a potential role of Ran–GTPase machinery in nucleocytoplasmic transport. Our expression and localization analysis, correlated with functional observations in other cell systems, suggest that Ran–GTPase may be involved in both nucleocytoplasmic transport and microtubules assembly, two critical events during the development of functional sperm. In addition, the manchette‐to‐centrosome Ran–GTPase relocation, together with the similar redistribution of various proteins associated to the manchette, suggest the existence of an intramanchette molecular transport mechanism, which may share molecular analogies with intraflagellar transport. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 63: 131–140, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Intramanchette transport (IMT): Managing the making of the spermatid head, centrosome, and tail
Authors: Kierszenbaum Abraham L.
Published: October 2002

Intramanchette transport (IMT) and intraflagellar transport (IFT) share similar molecular components: a raft protein complex transporting cargo proteins mobilized along microtubules by molecular motors. IFT, initially discovered in flagella of Chlamydomonas, has been also observed in cilia of the worm Caenorhabditis elegans and in mouse ciliated and flagellated cells. IFT has been defined as the mechanism by which protein raft components (also called IFT particles) are displaced between the flagellum and the plasma membrane in the anterograde direction by kinesin‐II and in the retrograde direction by cytoplasmic dynein 1b. Mutation of the gene Tg737, encoding one of the components of the raft protein complex, designated Polaris in the mouse and IFT88 in both Chlamydomonas and mouse, results in defective ciliogenesis and flagellar development as well as asymmetry in left‐right axis determination. Polaris/IFT88 is detected in the manchette of mouse and rat spermatids. Indications of an IMT mechanism originated from the finding that two proteins associated with the manchette (Sak57/K5 and TBP‐1, the latter a component of the 26S proteasome) repositioned to the centrosome and sperm tail once the manchette disassembled. IMT has the features of the IFT machinery but, in addition, facilitates nucleocytoplasmic exchange activities during spermiogenesis. An example is Ran, a small GTPase present in the nucleus and cytoplasm of round spermatids and in the manchette of elongating spermatids. Upon disassembly of the manchette, Ran GTPase is found in the centrosome region of elongating spermatids. Because defective molecular motors and raft proteins result in defective flagella, cilia, and cilia‐containing photoreceptor cells in the retina, IMT and IFT are emerging as essential mechanisms for managing critical aspects of sperm development. Details of specific role of Ran GTPase in nucleocytoplasmic transport and its relocation from the manchette to the centrosome to the sperm tail await elucidation. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 63: 1–4, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Short‐term reproducibility of cystometry and pressure‐flow micturition studies in healthy women
Authors: Brostrom Soren , Jennum Poul , Lose Gunnar
Published: October 2002

Aims

To evaluate the reproducibility of cystometry and pressure flow studies in women. We wanted to explore any clinically relevant effect of repeated, same‐session cystometry.

Methods

Thirty healthy women with a mean age of 52 years were investigated with repeat medium‐fill water cystometry and pressure‐flow micturition studies in a single session.

Results

Large test‐retest variability was noted, with wide limits of agreement. Of statistical significance was an increase of first desire (FD) and normal desire (ND), and a decrease in bladder opening pressure. Maximum cystometric capacity was unchanged.

Conclusions

Although the nature of the conditioning effect of the first fill remains to be explored, the phenomenon could possibly be used for improved urodynamic diagnosis. Neurourol. Urodynam. 21:457–460, 2002. © Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
c‐Fos expression in the spinal cord after acute sacral segmental nerve stimulation
Authors: Ishigooka Manabu , Nakada Teruhiro , Hashimoto Tohru , Zermann Dirk‐Henrik , Schmidt Richard A.
Published: October 2002

Aims

Sacral nerve stimulation (SNS) can provide subjective and objective relief of pelvic pain and chronic voiding symptoms, but its mechanism is poorly understood. It is well known that a noxious stimulus applied to one part of the body can reduce the response to a subsequent stimulus elsewhere in the body. This phenomenon, known as diffuse noxious inhibitory controls (DNIC), seems to be the mechanism by which pain can be reduced by concurrent noxious stimulation.

Methods

On the basis of the DNIC concept, we investigated the expression of a protein product of proto‐oncogene c‐Fos (c‐Fos) in the rat spinal cord after acute electrical stimulation of the sacral segmental nerve with or without lower urinary tract irritation. Adult male Sprague‐Dawley rats were treated either by sacral nerve stimulation (SNS) from the S1 sacral foramen or chemical irritation of the lower urinary tract (LUT) or both. Rats were perfused transcardially, and spinal cords were removed and processed for c‐Fos immunohistochemistry. c‐Fos expression in the central nervous system was detected by immunohistochemistry by using the avidin‐biotin technique. The number of c‐Fos–positive cells and their locations in the spinal cord were evaluated.

Results

SNS and LUT irritation resulted in significant increases in c‐Fos–positive cells in L6 and S1 spinal segments. In the animals treated by SNS and LUT irritation, counts of c‐Fos–positive cells in L6 and S1 segments were significantly smaller than expected. Distribution and number of c‐Fos–positive cells in rats that received SNS and LUT irritation were almost the same as those induced by SNS alone in the S1 segment.

Conclusions

SNS alone caused a near maximal response in c‐Fos expression such that adding LUT irritation did not cause a linear increase in c‐Fos. Subsequent LUT irritation could not induce additional expression of c‐Fos within the spinal cord. Neurourol. Urodynam. 21:495–501, 2002. © Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Environmental exposure to residues after aerial spraying of endosulfan: residues in cow milk, fish, water, soil and cashew leaf in Kasargode, Kerala, India
Authors: Ramesh Atmakuru , Vijayalakshmi Ambalatharasu
Published: October 2002

A detailed study has been conducted to evaluate the residues of endosulfan and its principal metabolite (alpha‐endosulfan, beta‐endosulfan and endosulfan sulfate) which may have accumulated in environmental samples due to regular aerial spray application of endosulfan on cashew leaf plantation for a period of 20 years. Three months after the last spray of endosulfan 350 g litre−1 EC at 300 ml acre−1 (equivalent to 105 g AI acre−1 = 42.5 g ha−1), a total of 93 samples of cow milk, fish, water, soil and dried cashew leaf were collected from a village in Kasargode District, Kerala, India, where endosulfan contamination was likely to have occurred. All the samples were analyzed for total residues of endosulfan (comprising alpha‐ and beta‐endosulfan), endosulfan sulfate and also the potential hydrolysis product endosulfan diol, using gas chromatography with electron capture detection. The minimum detection limits of total endosulfan was 0.001 µg g−1. Analysis of soil samples showed the deposition of total endosulfan residues in the range <0.001–0.010 µg g−1, and dried leaf samples showed residues of endosulfan in the range <0.001–3.43 µg g−1 dry weight. In cow milk, fish and water, endosulfan residues could not be detected above the minimum detection limit. Endosulfan diol was not observed in any sample. The data obtained was confirmed by GC‐MS‐EI using selective ion monitoring (SIM) mode.

© 2002 Society of Chemical Industry
Characterization of propargyl bromide transformation in soil
Authors: Papiernik Sharon K , Gan Jianying , Yates Scott R
Published: October 2002

Propargyl bromide is being investigated for its potential as a soil fumigant. Characterization of the fate of propargyl bromide in soil is important in determining both efficacy and the threat of environmental contamination. These experiments investigated some of the factors affecting the rate of propargyl bromide degradation in soil and quantified some of the products formed as a result of propargyl bromide degradation in four soils of differing composition and at three initial propargyl bromide concentrations. In all soils at all initial propargyl bromide concentrations, equimolar formation of Br− was observed during propargyl bromide degradation, but little propargyl alcohol (product of hydrolysis) was formed. The apparent first‐order degradation coefficient (k) increased with decreasing initial propargyl bromide concentration in all soils, but the mass degraded per unit time increased with increasing propargyl bromide concentration. The rate of propargyl bromide degradation increased with increasing soil organic matter content, and the k value was correlated to the organic carbon content of the soil (correlation coefficient >0.97 for all concentrations). Repeated application of propargyl bromide did not increase the rate of propargyl bromide degradation in soil. Addition of Br− did not affect the rate of propargyl bromide transformation in soil, so accumulation of Br− in the soil is not expected to impede propargyl bromide degradation.

Published in 2002 for SCI by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Induction of phytoalexins in pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan) in response to inoculation with Fusarium udum and other treatments
Authors: Marley Paul S , Hillocks Rory J
Published: October 2002

Cajanol accumulation was monitored in four cultivars of pigeonpea, Cajanus cajan (L) Millsp, after inoculation with 2 × 106 conidia ml−1 of Fusarium udum Butler. Rapid accumulation was observed only in wilt‐resistant cultivar ICP 9145. Another wilt‐resistant cultivar, ICP 8863, had low levels of cajanol similar to those in wilt‐susceptible cultivars ICP 2376 and Malawi local, indicating that rapid cajanol accumulation is not positively correlated with resistance to wilt in pigeonpea. A comparison of various inducing agents showed live conidia of the pathogen to cause more rapid accumulation than the other agents.

© 2002 Society of Chemical Industry
Multimedia satellite communications experiments to the international space station
Authors: Matarasso Carlo , Giggenbach Dirk , Hermanns Frank , Lutz Erich
Published: October 2002

In the present concept of the International Space Station ISS, it is planned to provide the communication services between the European Columbus module of the ISS and the ground equipment via the TDRS (tracking and data relay satellite) network provided by the American NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Agency). Especially because of its low uplink data rate, an unacceptable limitation of the communication services with Columbus is to be expected.

In order to investigate possible improvements to this situation, the MEDIS proposal studies the feasibility of a 150 Mbps full duplex communication system to the Columbus Module on via two MEO satellites. A mixed topology with optical inter satellite links and Ka‐band up/down‐links shall be employed. Also possible liaisons with the Artemis mission will be considered.

The MEDIS project is a collaboration of Astrium GmbH, which is project manager, Bosch SatCom, GMD‐Fokus and the German Aerospace Center (DLR). The preparation phase of the project will investigate the concept of the communications infrastructure and the experiments that could be realized when the MEOs are launched. This stage has been completed in February 2001. An additional study phase followed, which will be completed with a presentation in July 2002.

Briefly the following aspects have been studied by DLR in the preparation phase:

the overall concept of experimental communication services for Columbus,

the system requirements and network topology,

the relevant protocol and hardware architectures,

useful satellite constellations and link scenarios.

Two phases could follow the preparation phase, in phase one the satellite will be launched and the link will be tested. In phase two the satellites will be connected to the ISS. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The potential for using LEO telecommunications constellations to support nanosatellite formation flying
Authors: Horan Stephen
Published: October 2002

This is an investigation to determine if a low‐Earth telecommunications constellation can be used to support data services for small satellites also in Low‐Earth Orbit. The intent is to use the telecommunications service provider satellites to supply low‐rate command and telemetry services as well as inter‐satellite data communications. In this study, we determine access potential via simulations of the orbital contact time using current telecommunications constellation configurations and the assumed configuration for a nanosatellite user. From the access times, we conclude that there are sufficient numbers of contacts to permit command and telemetry services for the nanosatellite constellation. In addition to the access time, we consider Doppler effects, antenna effects, and regulatory restrictions on such communications. However, the regulations do not currently permit such operations on a regular basis. From this analysis, we conclude that the desired communications are possible but the nanosatellite user will need to work closely with the service provider. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Realizing active data warehouses with off‐the‐shelf database technology
Authors: Thalhammer Thomas , Schrefl Michael
Published: October 2002

Active data warehouses belong to a new category of decision support systems, which automate decision making for routine decision tasks and semi‐routine decision tasks. Just as active database systems extend conventional database systems with event–condition–action rules for integrity constraint enforcement or procedure execution, active data warehouses extend conventional data warehouses with analysis rules that mimic the work of an analyst during decision making. This paper demonstrates how analysis rules can be implemented on top of a passive relational data warehouse system by using commercially available database technology. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The modern dilemma and the challenge to systems thinkers
Authors: Jackson Wes
Published: October 2002

In a world with an exploding human population and declining non‐renewable resources, three kinds of intellectuals weigh in as inquirers into the human prospect. Two agree that the European–North American–Japanese path of development cannot be sustained. The third scholar studiously avoids being drawn into the discussion as he advances a recipe for right livelihood, which ignores economic considerations by advancing a moral argument. Systems thinking, a form of reductionism, it is argued, must remain subordinate to a dialectical approach to solving our problems. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The map of science collaboratory
Authors: Blanco Hilda
Published: October 2002

This paper develops the idea for a program of nationwide collaboratories. It argues that now that we have completed mapping the human genome, we should begin to map its corresponding social unit—the set of instructions that generate/constitute our knowledge. This is a pressing task because of the environmental and population challenges we face in the twenty‐first century, which require well‐informed public policy based on scientific consensus, and because the explosive growth in research and publications makes divergence, and not consensus, more likely. The major tasks of the collaboratory would be to take stock, make accessible and synthesize existing knowledge, to develop further methods for research synthesis/meta‐analysis; to integrate disciplinary research; and to develop methods to visualize scientific findings and their linkages. The paper discusses and documents the explosive growth of the use of meta‐analysis in the medical and other sciences. The program calls for establishing 6–12 collaboratory centers throughout the country that would initially specialize on specific areas, substantive and methodological. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A trusting constructivist approach to systemic inquiry: exploring accountability
Authors: Romm Norma
Published: October 2002

This paper offers an outline of, and justification for, what I call a ‘trusting constructivist’ approach to systemic inquiry. I work with the constructivist view that, as Banathy puts it: ‘what we know about the world becomes projected onto the world’. That is, our theoretical constructions and ways of thinking in relation to the world cannot be considered separately from the impacts that they might have on the unfolding of possibilities. Recognizing our involvement in the development of systems means that we can reconsider—with others—the status of our own constructions as potentially generating self‐fulfilling effects. A trusting constructivist view suggests that people cannot desist from offering their own constructions (that embody particular concerns) in processes of inquiry (professional or otherwise). But they need to recognize the choices that they are making as they create constructions, so that they can account for these in relation to alternatives in social discourse, in an endeavor to earn others' trust. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ceramide generated by acidic sphingomyelinase contributes to tumor necrosis factor‐α‐mediated apoptosis in human colon HT‐29 cells through glycosphingolipids formation
Authors: Colell Anna , Morales Albert , Fernández-Checa José C , Garcı́a-Ruiz Carmen
Published: October 2002

In the present study we assessed the contribution of acidic sphingomyelinase (ASMase), a ceramide generating enzyme, in tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐mediated apoptosis in human colon HT‐29 cells. TNF induced apoptosis in HT‐29 cells in a time‐ and dose‐dependent fashion. Downregulation of the active endogenous ASMase form prevented TNF‐stimulated ASMase activity and apoptosis. Furthermore, inhibition of glucosylceramide synthase, which blunted TNF‐stimulated GD3 levels, abolished TNF‐mediated cell death. Immunocytochemical staining revealed the co‐localization of GD3 with mitochondria induced by TNF. The knockdown of targeted GD3 synthase by antisense expression vector protected HT‐29 cells against TNF‐induced cell death. Thus, ASMase plays a key role in TNF‐induced cell death in human colon epithelial cells possibly through GD3 generation.
Ectodomain shedding of furin: kinetics and role of the cysteine‐rich region
Authors: Denault Jean-Bernard , Bissonnette Lyne , Longpré Jean-Michel , Charest Gabriel , Lavigne Pierre , Leduc Richard
Published: October 2002

Furin, a member of the subtilisin‐like pro‐protein convertase family, is a type I membrane protein that undergoes ectodomain shedding. Metabolic labeling of cells stably expressing furin demonstrated that the shed form of furin is detected after 30 min. Moreover, sequence analysis revealed that specific residues of the cysteine‐rich region of furin aligned with those of tumor necrosis factor receptor, which is also shed. Introduction within furin's cysteine‐rich region of mutations that impair TNFR1 shedding also abolished furin shedding. Our results show that shedding of furin occurs rapidly and further suggest that specific cysteine residues may impart a conformation to the enzyme, thereby affecting its susceptibility to proteolysis.
Biologic tendon fixation to metallic implant augmented with autogenous cancellous bone graft and bone marrow in a canine model
Authors: Inoue Nozomu , Ikeda Kazuo , Aro Hannu T. , Frassica Frank J. , Sim Franklin H. , Chao Edmund Y. S.
Published: October 2002

Soft tissue attachment to a metallic prosthesis is required for the improvement of the functional outcome of endoprosthetic reconstructions. Direct tendon attachment to the metallic surface can be achieved through fibrous ingrowth, but such an attachment has a mechanical strength less than one fifth of that of a normal tendon insertion. Regeneration of a transitional structure between the tendon and the metallic surface similar to the normal morphology of a direct tendon insertion may improve the mechanical strength of the new tendon insertion. The objective of the study was to investigate the effect of placement of an interpositional autogenous cancellous bone plate augmented with bone marrow on the mechanical strength of the soft tissue attachment to the metallic surface. The insertion of the supraspinatus tendon was reattached to a porous titanium prosthesis in a canine shoulder model. An autogenous cancellous bone plate supplemented with bone marrow was positioned between the metallic surface and the tendon. Assessment of load‐bearing, as a measure of functional recovery, and radiological analysis were performed at 3, 6, 9, 12, and 15 weeks. The animals were euthanized 16 weeks after surgery, and the specimens were subjected to tensile mechanical testing (six animals) and microradiographic‐histologic evaluation (three animals). Functional analysis showed a 90.3% recovery of preoperative weight‐bearing by 16 weeks (p < 0.05). The mineralized area around the prostheses increased by 63% over time (p < 0.05). Tensile stiffness and strength of the reconstruction were 43.6% and 42.8% of the intact tendon insertion values, respectively. These results were higher than in previous experiments using the direct tendon attachment (p < 0.01, p < 0.05, respectively) or the interpositional bone plate without marrow supplementation (p < 0.05, p < 0.05, respectively). Morphologically, the tendon reattachment site contained the basic tissue transition zones in normal tendon insertion to bone. Inductive bone grafting, supplemented with bone marrow, in the biologic augmentation of tendon anchoring onto a porous metallic prosthesis was an effective technique to increase the mechanical strength of the tendon attachment to the metallic prosthesis.

© 2002 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.
Tumor necrosis factor modulates transcription of myelin basic protein gene through nuclear factor kappa B in a human oligodendroglioma cell line
Authors: Huang Chang J. , Nazarian Ramin , Lee Justin , Zhao Paul M. , Espinosa‐Jeffrey Araceli , de Vellis Jean
Published: October 2002

Tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) is a major mediator of inflammation and it is involved in many neurological disorders such as multiple sclerosis. Levels of TNF‐α and lymphotoxin‐α have been found elevated in plaques, bloods, and cerebral spinal fluids from multiple sclerosis patients. The expression of myelin basic protein (MBP), a major protein of the myelin sheath, is affected by cytokines secreted by activated immune cells. To determine the signal transduction pathway involving tumor necrosis factor's action in myelination and demyelination, we have cloned and analyzed cis‐elements on promoters of the human and mouse MBP genes. There are two putative nuclear factors kappa‐B (NF‐κB) cis‐elements on the human and one on the mouse gene promoter. In an electrophoretic mobility shift assay, all three NF‐κB cis‐elements showed binding to a protein, which was recognized by an antibody against NF‐κB P65 component. The specificity of the binding was demonstrated in a competitive assay using NF‐κB consensus oligonucleotides. A two base pair site‐directed mutation on the mouse NF‐κB cis‐element abolished its binding activity. We created a DNA construct by linking the mouse MBP gene promoter containing the NF‐κB cis‐element to luciferase gene. Transfection of this construct into a human oligodendroglioma cell line showed TNF‐α increased the transgene expression. Furthermore the mutation of NF‐κB site abolished TNF‐α ‐induction of the transgene. The data demonstrate that NF‐κB is the mediator between tumor necrosis factor's action and MBP gene expression. Elucidating the molecular mechanisms underlying TNF‐α regulation of MBP gene expression provides new scientific bases for the development of therapy against oligodendrocyte‐specific and myelin‐related disorders such as multiple sclerosis.
From the Editor Vol 7 No 2
Authors: Lahey Karen Eilers
Published: October 2002

NA
CD103 Expression Is Required for Destruction of Pancreatic Islet Allografts by CD8+ T Cells
Authors: Feng Ye , Wang Donghua , Yuan Rongwen , Parker Christina M. , Farber Donna L. , Hadley Gregg A.
Published: October 2002

The mechanisms by which CD8 effector populations interact with epithelial layers is a poorly defined aspect of adaptive immunity. Recognition that CD8 effectors have the capacity to express CD103, an integrin directed to the epithelial cell-specific ligand E-cadherin, potentially provides insight into such interactions. To assess the role of CD103 in promoting CD8-mediated destruction of epithelial layers, we herein examined the capacity of mice with targeted disruption of CD103 to reject pancreatic islet allografts. Wild-type hosts uniformly rejected islet allografts, concomitant with the appearance of CD8+CD103+ effectors at the graft site. In contrast, the majority of islet allografts transplanted into CD103−/− hosts survived indefinitely. Transfer of wild-type CD8 cells into CD103−/− hosts elicited prompt rejection of long-surviving islet allografts, whereas CD103−/− CD8 cells were completely ineffectual, demonstrating that the defect resides at the level of the CD8 cell. CD8 cells in CD103−/− hosts exhibited normal effector responses to donor alloantigens in vitro and trafficked normally to the graft site, but strikingly failed to infiltrate the islet allograft itself. These data establish a causal relationship between CD8+CD103+ effectors and destruction of graft epithelial elements and suggest that CD103 critically functions to promote intragraft migration of CD8 effectors into epithelial compartments.
CD4 Effector T Cell Subsets in the Response to Influenza
Authors: Román Eulogia , Miller Ellen , Harmsen Allen , Wiley James , von Andrian Ulrich H. , Huston Gail , Swain Susan L.
Published: October 2002

The immune response of naive CD4 T cells to influenza virus is initiated in the draining lymph nodes and spleen, and only after effectors are generated do antigen-specific cells migrate to the lung which is the site of infection. The effector cells generated in secondary organs appear as multiple subsets which are a heterogeneous continuum of cells in terms of number of cell divisions, phenotype and function. The effector cells that migrate to the lung constitute the more differentiated of the total responding population, characterized by many cell divisions, loss of CD62L, down-regulation of CCR7, stable expression of CD44 and CD49d, and transient expression of CCR5 and CD25. These cells also secrete high levels of interferon γ and reduced levels of interleukin 2 relative to those in the secondary lymphoid organs. The response declines rapidly in parallel with viral clearance, but a spectrum of resting cell subsets reflecting the pattern at the peak of response is retained, suggesting that heterogeneous effector populations may give rise to corresponding memory populations. These results reveal a complex response, not an all-or-none one, which results in multiple effector phenotypes and implies that effector cells and the memory cells derived from them can display a broad spectrum of functional potentials.
Theories of internationalisation and their impact on market entry
Authors: Whitelock Jeryl
Published: October 2002

Discusses four theories of internationalisation: the Uppsala model of internationalisation; the eclectic paradigm and transaction cost analysis; the interactive network approach of the International Marketing and Purchasing Group; and what may be termed the business strategy approach. Suggests that a model incorporating the key elements of each approach could present a more realistic and comprehensive picture of the market entry decision.
An introduction to laser direct imaging for high density interconnects
Authors: Omer Udi
Published: October 2002

This paper gives a short introduction to the features of laser direct imaging (LDI) that make it a valuable technology for high density interconnect (HDI) manufacturing. Outlines the benefits and indicates that LDI is a viable, production proven solution for HDI imaging.
A traveling conversation model for dynamic knowledge interaction
Authors: Nishida Toyoaki
Published: October 2002

Dynamic knowledge interaction is interaction that brings about mutual understanding and knowledge evolution in a community. Proposes a communication medium called conversational medium that provides the user with a means for interacting with the content in a conversational fashion, and presents a traveling conversation model in which the community knowledge process is modeled as circulation of conversational contents that represent small talks in a community. Shows several pilot systems based on these ideas, including the public opinion channel which is an interactive broadcasting system that collects small talks and broadcasts stories reorganized from the archive of small talks; EgoChat which is a system based on a talking‐virtualized‐egos metaphor; Voice Café which is a system consisting of a physical object and a conversational agent that allows artifacts to make conversation with people or other artifacts; and embodiment communication for communicating more vivid information by introducing non‐verbal communication facilities.
ALTERNATIVE HAMILTONIAN DESCRIPTIONS AND STATISTICAL MECHANICS
Authors: ERCOLESSI E. , MORANDI G. , MARMO G.
Published: October 2002

We argue here that, just as it happens in classical and quantum mechanics, where it has been proven that alternative Hamiltonian descriptions can be compatible with a given set of equations of motion, the same holds true in the realm of statistical mechanics, i.e. that alternative Hamiltonian descriptions do lead to the same thermodynamical description of any physical system.
THE LARGEST VIRIALIZED DARK HALO IN THE UNIVERSE
Authors: ZHOU WEI , ZHANG TONG-JIE , CHEN LI , HE XIANG-TAO , HUANG YU-MEI
Published: October 2002

Using semi-analytic approach, we present an estimate of the properties of the largest virialized dark halos in the present universe for three different scenarios of structure formation: SCDM, ΛCDM and OCDM models. The resulting virial mass and temperature increase from the lowest values of 1.6 × 1015 h-1 M⊙ and 9.8 keV in OCDM, the mid-range values of 9.0 × 1015 h-1 M⊙ and 31 keV in ΛCDM, to the highest values of 20.9 × 1015h-1M⊙, 65 keV in SCDM. As compared with the largest virialized object seen in the universe, the richest clusters of galaxies, we can safely rule out the OCDM model. In addition, the SCDM model is very unlikely because of the unreasonably high virial mass and temperature. Our computation favors the prevailing ΛCDM model in which superclusters may be marginally regarded as dynamically-virialized systems.
REDUCTION OF THE GEOMETRICAL MASS OF THE REISSNER–NORDSTRÖM SPACETIME
Authors: BARBACHOUX C. , GARIEL J. , MARCILHACY G. , SANTOS N. O.
Published: October 2002

We derive the Teixeira, Wolk and Som method,1 for obtaining electrostatic solutions from some given vacuum solutions, in its inverse form. Then we use it to obtain the geometrical mass MS in the Schwarzschild spacetime, and we find [Formula: see text], where M and Q are, respectively, the mass and charge parameters of the Reissner–Nordström spacetime. We compare MS to the corresponding active gravitational mass and mass function.
METASTABILITY IN SIMPLE CLIMATE MODELS: PATHWISE ANALYSIS OF SLOWLY DRIVEN LANGEVIN EQUATIONS
Authors: BERGLUND NILS , GENTZ BARBARA
Published: October 2002

We consider simple stochastic climate models, described by slowly time-dependent Langevin equations. We show that when the noise intensity is not too large, these systems can spend substantial amounts of time in metastable equilibrium, instead of adiabatically following the stationary distribution of the frozen system. This behavior can be characterized by describing the location of typical paths, and bounding the probability of atypical paths. We illustrate this approach by giving a quantitative description of phenomena associated with bistability, for three famous examples of simple climate models: Stochastic resonance in an energy balance model describing the Ice Ages; hysteresis in a box model for the Atlantic thermohaline circulation; and bifurcation delay in the case of the Lorenz model for Rayleigh–Bénard convection.
MASTER EQUATIONS FOR HIMALAYAN VALLEY WINDS
Authors: EGGER JOSEPH
Published: October 2002

Data from a recent field campaign in the Himalayan Kali Gandaki Valley are used to construct master equations for the along-valley flow component as observed at a station and the pressure difference between this location and another one in the valley. The inspection of these equations reveals a pronounced difference between the flow dynamics during the day when strong up-valley winds prevail and those during the night when weak down-valley winds are observed. This difference is not captured by a corresponding regression model. Predictions by the master equation cease to be useful after one hour. The relation of master equations to data based Fokker–Planck equations is briefly discussed.
Solid-State Stabilization of Discrete Triple-Stranded Silver (I) Helicates
Authors: Dong Guo , Ke-Liang Pang , Chun-Ying Duan , Yong-Gang Zhao , Qing-Jin Meng
Published: October 2002

Novel triple-stranded binuclear helical complexes of silver(I) with various coordination modes are generated from the simple imine-based rigid ligand L (pyridylmethylketazine) via self-assembly in the presence of concentrate silver salts upon crystallization.
Electrochemical Oxidation of NADH Catalyzed by Diaphorase Conjugated with Poly-1-vinylimidazole Complexed with Os(2,2′-dipyridylamine)2Cl
Authors: Tsujimura Seiya , Kano Kenji , Ikeda Tokuji
Published: October 2002

A new redox polymer containing Os (E °′=−0.15 V vs Ag|AgCl) was designed and synthesized as an efficient mediator of diaphorase-catalyzed electrochemical oxidation of NADH and as a support to immobilize enzyme(s) on electrode surfaces. The electrochemical characteristics of the polymer and its application to biosensors and bioanodes of biofuel cells are briefed.
Preparation and Characterization of Gold Nano-Particles Chemisorbed by π-Radical Thiols
Authors: Harada Genta , Sakurai Hiromi , Matsushita Michio M , Izuoka Akira , Sugawara Tadashi
Published: October 2002

π-Radical thiol-derivatized gold nano-particles with the average diameter of 4.1 nm were isolated, and about one hundred π-radical ligands were found to be chemisorbed on the nano-particle. The solid sample of the nano-particles showed an extremely broadened ESR signal with the peak-to-peak derivative line width (ΔHpp) of 30 mT at 300 K.
Cleavage of a p-Cyanobenzyl Group from Protected Alcohols, Amines, and Thiols Using Triethylgermyl Sodium
Authors: Yokoyama Yasuo , Takizawa Shuichi , Nanjo Masato , Mochida Kunio
Published: October 2002

Alcohols, amines, and thiols protected with a p-cyanobenzyl group can be easily and quantitatively deprotected using triethylgermyl sodium under mild conditions.
Microwave-Driven Polyol Method for Preparation of TiO2 Nanocrystallites
Authors: Yamamoto Tetsushi , Wada Yuji , Yin Hengbo , Sakata Takao , Mori Hirotaro , Yanagida Shozo
Published: October 2002

Anatase TiO2 nanocrystallites have been prepared in 1,4-butanediol, 1,5-pentanediol or 1,6-hexanediol under microwave irradiation by the polyol method. It is demonstrated that the crystallite size less than 10 nm can be controlled by changing the quantity of added water.
A successful second unrelated BMT (UBMT) from a different unrelated donor to treat ALL that relapsed after the initial UBMT
Authors: Uehara Taeko , Nakaseko Chiaki , Yokota Akira , Saito Yasushi , Nishimura Miki
Published: October 2002

A 26‐year‐old male with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) in its second complete remission received an unrelated bone marrow transplantation (UBMT) following cyclophosphamide plus total body irradiation conditioning. The patient relapsed 7 months after the BMT. He received a second UBMT from a different donor 15 months after the initial UBMT. Conditioning for the second UBMT consisted of busulphan, melphalan, and anti‐thymocyte globulin. The regimen was well tolerated, and engraftment was achieved. Both acute and chronic graft‐versus‐host diseases occurred but were successfully controlled with immunosuppressive drugs. He is alive and disease‐free 29 months after the second UBMT. This is the first report of a successful second UBMT for ALL that had relapsed after the first UBMT and for which a different donor was used. Am. J. Hematol. 71:37–40, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Treatment with simvastatin in normocholesterolemic patients with Alzheimer's disease: A 26‐week randomized, placebo‐controlled, double‐blind trial
Authors: Simons Mikael , Schwärzler Frank , Lütjohann Dieter , Von Bergmann Klaus , Beyreuther Konrad , Dichgans Johannes , Wormstall Henning , Hartmann Tobias , Schulz Jörg B.
Published: October 2002

In a randomized, placebo‐controlled, double‐blind study, we investigated whether statins alter cholesterol metabolites and reduce Aβ levels in the cerebrospinal fluid of 44 patients with Alzheimer's disease. Individuals were given up to 80mg simvastatin daily or placebo for 26 weeks. Overall, simvastatin did not significantly alter cerebrospinal fluid levels of Aβ40 and Aβ42. In post hoc analysis, simvastatin significantly decreased Aβ40 levels in the cerebrospinal fluid of patients with mild Alzheimer's disease. The reduction of Aβ40 correlated with the reduction of 24S‐hydroxycholesterol. These changes were not observed in more severely affected patients.
Synthesis and properties of ultraviolet‐curable resins via a thio–ene (thiol and allyl) addition reaction
Authors: Chiang Wen‐Yen , Ding Fan‐Chun
Published: October 2002

Benzophenone diallyl ester (I) and benzophenone tetraallyl ester (II) based on 3,3′,4,4′‐benzophenone tetracarboxylic dianhydride (BTDA) with allyl alcohol (AAL) were synthesized. Glycidyl methacrylate (GMA) was added to I and formed diallyl diglycidyl methacrylate (III). These BTDA‐based allyl‐containing compounds (II and III) reacted with 1,4‐butanedithiol and 4,4′‐thiol‐bisbenzene‐thiol to produce ultraviolet (UV)‐curable resins via a thio–ene addition reaction. The ester (III) was cured easily when exposed to UV or sunlight radiation without any photoinitiator and only required a lower thermal curing temperature. The diallyl ester (I) and tetraallyl ester (II) required the addition of benzophenone to increase the photosensitivity, which reduced the exposition time. These resins used AAL as a monomer to successfully reduce the oxygen effect of the photocuring. The resin BTDA–2Allyl–2GMA had a glass‐transition temperature of 166°C and a hardness of 6H. The resultant UV‐curable coatings had excellent hardness, chemical resistance, adhesion, and tensile properties. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 86: 1878–1885, 2002
Polypropylene fibers reinforced with carbon nanotubes
Authors: Kearns Jacob C. , Shambaugh Robert L.
Published: October 2002

The strength properties of polypropylene fibers were enhanced with single‐wall carbon nanotubes (SWNTs). Solvent processing was used to disperse SWNTs in a commodity polypropylene. After the solvent was removed, the solid polymer was melt‐spun and postdrawn into fibers of unusual strength. For a 1‐wt % loading of nanotubes, the fiber tensile strength increased 40% (from 9.0 to 13.1 g/denier). At the same time, the modulus increased 55% (from 60 to 93 g/denier). © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 86: 2079–2084, 2002
An analysis in support of sediment quality thresholds for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) to protect estuarine fish
Authors: Johnson Lyndal L. , Collier Tracy K. , Stein John E.
Published: October 2002

Under the US Endangered Species Act and the Essential Fish Habitat provisions of the Sustainable Fisheries Act, it is the responsibility of the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) to safeguard the health of fish in estuarine and coastal waters.

This includes assessment of the impacts of exposure to toxic chemicals on fish and their critical habitat.

This analysis was conducted to assist NMFS resource managers in determining when fish are exposed to potentially harmful concentrations of one of the most common environmental contaminants, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs).

Effects thresholds were estimated primarily through segmented regression of site‐specific sediment PAH concentrations and associated disease prevalences in a resident fish species, English sole, Pleuronectes vetulus.

The analyses and supporting data encompass several endpoints, including DNA damage, liver lesions, and impacts on growth and reproduction.

In general, liver lesion prevalences, DNA adduct levels, and impacts on growth and reproduction were minimal at sediment PAH concentrations at or below 1000 ppb. Above 1000 ppb, there appears to be a substantial increase in the risk of contaminant‐related injury to English sole.

Published in 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Analysis of the distribution of binding sites for the plant lectin Bandeiraea simplicifolia I‐isolectin B4 on primary sensory neurones in seven mammalian species
Authors: Gerke Michelle B. , Plenderleith Mark B.
Published: October 2002

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the binding patterns of the plant lectin Bandeiraea simplicifolia I‐isolectin B4 (BSI‐B4) to sensory neurones in seven mammalian species. The dorsal root ganglia and spinal cords of three rats, mice, guinea pigs, rabbits, flying foxes, cats, and marmoset monkeys were screened for BSI‐B4 using lectin histochemistry. BSI‐B4 binding was associated with the soma of predominantly small‐diameter primary sensory neurones in the dorsal root ganglia and their axon terminals within laminae I and II of the superficial dorsal horn in all seven species. The similarities of lectin binding patterns in each of these species suggest that the glycoconjugate to which BSI‐B4 binds has a ubiquitous distribution in mammals, and supports the proposal that this lectin may preferentially bind to a subpopulation of sensory neurones with a similar functional role in each of these species. Anat Rec 268:105–114, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.