bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Streptavidin facilitates internalization and pulmonary targeting of an anti-endothelial cell antibody (platelet-endothelial cell adhesion molecule 1): A strategy for vascular immunotargeting of drugs
Authors: Muzykantov Vladimir R. , Christofidou-Solomidou Melpo , Balyasnikova Irina , Harshaw David W. , Schultz Linda , Fisher Aron B. , Albelda Steven M.
Published: July 2002

Conjugation of drugs with antibodies to surface endothelial antigens is a potential strategy for drug delivery to endothelium. We studied antibodies to platelet-endothelial adhesion molecule 1 (PECAM-1, a stably expressed endothelial antigen) as carriers for vascular immunotargeting. Although
125
I-labeled anti-PECAM bound to endothelial cells in culture, the antibody was poorly internalized by the cells and accumulated poorly after intravenous administration in mice and rats. However, conjugation of biotinylated anti-PECAM (b-anti-PECAM) with streptavidin (SA) markedly stimulated uptake and internalization of anti-PECAM by endothelial cells and by cells expressing PECAM. In addition, conjugation with streptavidin markedly stimulated uptake of
125
I-labeled b-anti-PECAM in perfused rat lungs and in the lungs of intact animals after either intravenous or intraarterial injection. The antioxidant enzyme catalase conjugated with b-anti-PECAM/SA bound to endothelial cells in culture, entered the cells, escaped intracellular degradation, and protected the cells against H
2
O
2
-induced injury. Anti-PECAM/SA/
125
I-catalase accumulated in the lungs after intravenous injection or in the perfused rat lungs and protected these lungs against H
2
O
2
-induced injury. Thus, modification of a poor carrier antibody with biotin and SA provides an approach for facilitation of antibody-mediated drug targeting. Anti-PECAM/SA is a promising candidate for vascular immunotargeting of bioactive drugs.
Bilirubin, formed by activation of heme oxygenase-2, protects neurons against oxidative stress injury
Authors: Doré Sylvain , Takahashi Masaaki , Ferris Christopher D. , Hester Lynda D. , Guastella Daniel , Snyder Solomon H.
Published: July 2002

Heme oxygenase (HO) catalyzes the conversion of heme to carbon monoxide, iron, and biliverdin, which is immediately reduced to bilirubin (BR). Two HO active isozymes exist: HO1, an inducible heat shock protein, and HO2, which is constitutive and highly concentrated in neurons. We demonstrate a neuroprotective role for BR formed from HO2. Neurotoxicity elicited by hydrogen peroxide in hippocampal and cortical neuronal cultures is prevented by the phorbol ester, phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA) via stimulation of protein kinase C. We observe phosphorylation of HO2 through the protein kinase C pathway with enhancement of HO2 catalytic activity and accumulation of BR in neuronal cultures. The neuroprotective effects of PMA are prevented by the HO inhibitor tin protoporphyrin IX and in cultures from mice with deletion of HO2 gene. Moreover, BR, an antioxidant, is neuroprotective at nanomolar concentrations.
Unusual phenotypic alteration of β amyloid precursor protein (βAPP) maturation by a new Val-715 → Met βAPP-770 mutation responsible for probable early-onset Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Ancolio K. , Dumanchin C. , Barelli H. , Warter J. M. , Brice A. , Campion D. , Frébourg T. , Checler F.
Published: July 2002

We have identified a novel β amyloid precursor protein (βAPP) mutation (V715M-βAPP770) that cosegregates with early-onset Alzheimer’s disease (AD) in a pedigree. Unlike other familial AD-linked βAPP mutations reported to date, overexpression of V715M-βAPP in human HEK293 cells and murine neurons reduces total Aβ production and increases the recovery of the physiologically secreted product, APPα. V715M-βAPP significantly reduces Aβ40 secretion without affecting Aβ42 production in HEK293 cells. However, a marked increase in N-terminally truncated Aβ ending at position 42 (x-42Aβ) is observed, whereas its counterpart x-40Aβ is not affected. These results suggest that, in some cases, familial AD may be associated with a reduction in the overall production of Aβ but may be caused by increased production of truncated forms of Aβ ending at the 42 position.
Mapping the active site in vasoactive intestinal peptide to a core of four amino acids: Neuroprotective drug design
Authors: Gozes I. , Perl O. , Giladi E. , Davidson A. , Ashur-Fabian O. , Rubinraut S. , Fridkin M.
Published: July 2002

The understanding of the molecular mechanisms leading to peptide action entails the identification of a core active site. The major 28-aa neuropeptide, vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP), provides neuroprotection. A lipophilic derivative with a stearyl moiety at the N-terminal and norleucine residue replacing the Met-17 was 100-fold more potent than VIP in promoting neuronal survival, acting at femtomolar–picomolar concentration. To identify the active site in VIP, over 50 related fragments containing an N-terminal stearic acid attachment and an amidated C terminus were designed, synthesized, and tested for neuroprotective properties. Stearyl-Lys-Lys-Tyr-Leu-NH
2
(derived from the C terminus of VIP and the related peptide, pituitary adenylate cyclase activating peptide) captured the neurotrophic effects offered by the entire 28-aa parent lipophilic derivative and protected against β-amyloid toxicity
in vitro
. Furthermore, the 4-aa lipophilic peptide recognized VIP-binding sites and enhanced choline acetyltransferase activity as well as cognitive functions in Alzheimer’s disease-related
in vivo
models. Biodistribution studies following intranasal administration of radiolabeled peptide demonstrated intact peptide in the brain 30 min after administration. Thus, lipophilic peptide fragments offer bioavailability and stability, providing lead compounds for drug design against neurodegenerative diseases.
Intergeneric poliovirus recombinants for the treatment of malignant glioma
Authors: Gromeier Matthias , Lachmann Sylvie , Rosenfeld Myrna R. , Gutin Philip H. , Wimmer Eckard
Published: July 2002

Poliovirus neuropathogenicity depends on sequences within the 5′ nontranslated region of the virus. Exchange of the poliovirus internal ribosomal entry site with its counterpart from human rhinovirus type 2 resulted in attenuation of neurovirulence in primates. Despite deficient virus propagation in cells of neuronal origin, nonpathogenic polio recombinants retain excellent growth characteristics in cell lines derived from glial neoplasms. Susceptibility of malignant glioma cells to poliovirus may be mediated by expression of a poliovirus receptor, CD155, in glial neoplasms. Intergeneric polio recombinants with heterologous internal ribosomal entry site elements unfolded strong oncolytic potential against experimentally induced gliomas in athymic mice. Our observations suggest that highly attenuated poliovirus recombinants may have applicability as biotherapeutic antineoplastic agents.
Complete genomic sequence of the human
ABCA1
gene: Analysis of the human and mouse ATP-binding cassette A promoter
Authors: Santamarina-Fojo Silvia , Peterson Katherine , Knapper Catherine , Qiu Yang , Freeman Lita , Cheng Jan-Fang , Osorio José , Remaley Alan , Yang Xiao-Ping , Haudenschild Changting , Prades Catherine , Chimini Giovanna , Blackmon Eunice , Francois Teena , Duverger Nicholas , Rubin Edward M. , Rosier Marie , Denèfle Patrice , Fredrickson Donald S. , Brewer H. Bryan
Published: July 2002

The
ABCA1
gene, a member of the ATP-binding cassette A (ABCA1) transporter superfamily, encodes a membrane protein that facilitates the cellular efflux of cholesterol and phospholipids. Mutations in
ABCA1
lead to familial high density lipoprotein deficiency and Tangier disease. We report the complete human
ABCA1
gene sequence, including 1,453 bp of the promoter, 146,581 bp of introns and exons, and 1 kb of the 3′ flanking region. The
ABCA1
gene spans 149 kb and comprises 50 exons. Sixty-two repetitive Alu sequences were identified in introns 1–49. The transcription start site is 315 bp upstream of a newly identified initiation methionine codon and encodes an ORF of 6,783 bp. Thus, the ABCA1 protein is comprised of 2,261 aa. Analysis of the 1,453 bp 5′ upstream of the transcriptional start site reveals multiple binding sites for transcription factors with roles in lipid metabolism. Comparative analysis of the mouse and human ABCA1 promoter sequences identified specific regulatory elements, which are evolutionarily conserved. The human ABCA1 promoter fragment −200 to −80 bp that contains binding motifs for SP1, SP3, E-box, and AP1 modulates cellular cholesterol and cAMP regulation of
ABCA1
gene expression. These combined findings provide insights into ABCA1-mediated regulation of cellular cholesterol metabolism and will facilitate the identification of new pharmacologic agents for the treatment of atherosclerosis in humans.
Clonogenic hepatoblasts, common precursors for hepatocytic and biliary lineages, are lacking classical major histocompatibility complex class I antigen
Authors: Kubota Hiroshi , Reid Lola M.
Published: July 2002

Anin vitrocolony-forming assay and flow cytometry were used to identify rat hepatoblasts as being classical MHC class I, RT1Al-, OX18lowintercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM-1)+. Inducible differentiation toward biliary lineage was observed in most colonies derived from single RT1Al-progenitors, proving their bipotentiality. These findings demonstrate the antigenic profile of clonogenic hepatoblasts and proof of their bipotency. Furthermore, whereas colony formation of adult hepatocytes required epidermal growth factor, clonal growth of hepatoblasts was potentiated without epidermal growth factor. The adult hepatic colonies consisted of RT1Al+OX18+ICAM-1++cells. These results indicate that hepatoblasts possess unique characteristics as compared with adult hepatocytes harboring significant proliferative activity. The phenotypic identity of hepatoblasts and the clonal culture system have relevance for identifying hepatic stem cells from adults, for studying liver development, and for cell therapy based on hepatic progenitors.
Determination of the binding sites of the proton transfer inhibitors Cd
2+
and Zn
2+
in bacterial reaction centers
Authors: Axelrod H. L. , Abresch E. C. , Paddock M. L. , Okamura M. Y. , Feher G.
Published: July 2002

The reaction center (RC) from
Rhodobacter
sphaeroides
couples light-driven electron transfer to
protonation of a bound quinone acceptor molecule, Q
B
,
within the RC. The binding of Cd
2+
or Zn
2+
has
been previously shown to inhibit the rate of reduction and protonation
of Q
B
. We report here on the metal binding site, determined
by x-ray diffraction at 2.5-Å resolution, obtained from RC crystals
that were soaked in the presence of the metal. The structures were
refined to
R
factors of 23% and 24% for the
Cd
2+
and Zn
2+
complexes, respectively. Both
metals bind to the same location, coordinating to Asp-H124, His-H126,
and His-H128. The rate of electron transfer from
Q
A
−
to Q
B
was measured in the
Cd
2+
-soaked crystal and found to be the same as in solution
in the presence of Cd
2+
. In addition to the changes in the
kinetics, a structural effect of Cd
2+
on Glu-H173 was
observed. This residue was well resolved in the x-ray structure—i.e.,
ordered—with Cd
2+
bound to the RC, in contrast to its
disordered state in the absence of Cd
2+
, which suggests
that the mobility of Glu-H173 plays an important role in the rate of
reduction of Q
B
. The position of the Cd
2+
and
Zn
2+
localizes the proton entry into the RC near Asp-H124,
His-H126, and His-H128. Based on the location of the metal, likely
pathways of proton transfer from the aqueous surface to
Q
B
⨪ are proposed.
Local and global attention are mapped retinotopically in human occipital cortex
Authors: Sasaki Yuka , Hadjikhani Nouchine , Fischl Bruce , Liu Arthur K. , Marret Sean , Dale Anders M. , Tootell Roger B. H.
Published: July 2002

Clinical evidence suggests that control mechanisms for local and
global attention are lateralized in the temporal–parietal cortex.
However, in the human occipital (visual) cortex, the evidence for
lateralized local/global attention is controversial. To clarify this
matter, we used functional MRI to map activity in the human occipital
cortex, during local and global attention, with sustained visual
fixation. Data were analyzed in a flattened cortical format, relative
to maps of retinotopy and spatial frequency peak tuning. Neither local
nor global attention was lateralized in the occipital cortex. Instead,
local attention and global attention appear to be special cases of
visual spatial attention, which are mapped consistently with the maps
of retinotopy and spatial frequency tuning, in multiple visual cortical
areas.
Socio‐political control in urban China: changes and crisis*
Authors: Lau Raymond W. K.
Published: July 2002

This paper examines urban China's socio‐political control crisis under the impact of economic reforms as an epitome of a more general social crisis. The traditional urban institutional form of socio‐political control in the People's Republic of China (PRC), the work unit form of control, is a variant of age‐old forms. The latter's reproduction in variant form in the former was premised upon the fact that the PRC's industrialization was carried out by a peasant‐based party creating a new working class of rural migrants engaged in non‐market production and exchange. The persistence of non‐market economic relations ensured this form of control's continued reproduction. Post‐1978 market‐oriented reforms have undermined this form. As the emergence of new forms has been slow, a socio‐political control crisis has arisen, at a time when millions of urban employees are being thrown out of work. In dealing with the crisis, the official trade union, an organic constituent institution of the work unit form of control, plays a prominent part, in being given the tasks of sustaining this decaying form, and preventing and defusing potential social explosion. Yet, the very economic reform programme that has undermined the work unit form of control, is also gravely weakening the union.
Diplomacy and Psychology: Psychological Contributions to International Negotiations, Conflict Prevention, and World Peace
Authors: Gärling Tommy , Kristensen Henrik , Ekehammar Bo , Backenroth‐Ohsako Gunnel , Wessells Michael G.
Published: July 2002

Psychological science has the potential to contribute to international diplomacy, and thereby indirectly to the prevention of conflicts between and within states that may escalate to wars. In this introduction of the Special Issue on Diplomacy and Psychology, different varieties of diplomacy are first briefly introduced. Then follows an enumeration of areas of psychological research that show the greatest promise of being directly or indirectly relevant to diplomacy. These research areas include judgement and decision making in negotiations and social dilemmas, social justice, intergroup conflicts, and intercultural processes. An additional area is research on environmental policy making, whose important role needs to be better recognized in international diplomacy. Overviews are also given of the articles included in the Special Issue.
Cultural differences in mothers' developmental goals and ethnotheories
Authors: Rosenthal Miriam K. , Roer‐Strier Dorit
Published: July 2002

The influence of ecocultural context on parents' image of the adaptive adult is explored via a comparison between the child‐rearing goals and ethnotheories of 20 immigrant mothers from the former Soviet Union and 20 Israeli‐born mothers. It is assumed that parents' socializing practices are premised on developmental ethnotheories reflecting societal child rearing models and expectations for children's development. The image of the “adaptive adult” in parents' country of origin is so fundamentally ingrained in their beliefs about child rearing that it is retained after immigration, and is integrated with aspects of the image of adaptive adulthood which prevails in the host culture.

The current study explored (through semistructured interviews) mothers' developmental ethnotheories concerning the nature of development, how it can be influenced, and why it should be influenced, with regard to cognitive competence, autonomy, emotional regulation, and social understanding and behaviour of their 3–4‐year‐old children. It also explored their goals and expectations for their children as adults.

Analysis of the interviews with Israeli‐born and immigrant mothers lends support to the main thesis of this study. Mothers of both groups would like their children to grow into intelligent, joyful, and independent adults, to be well educated and to hold prestigious occupations. All of the mothers assume, moreover, that much of child development should be promoted through the active involvement of parents. Israeli‐born mothers, however, place a greater emphasis on social competence, autonomy, and leadership, whereas the emphasis of the Soviet‐born mothers is on achievement, emotional control, efficiency, and organization. The differences and similarities between the two groups of mothers are discussed in the context of their respective ecocultural backgrounds. It is proposed that each group's ethnotheories, developmental goals, and aspirations for their children reflect their respective values, perceptions, and understanding of the reality in which they raise their children. These values and perceptions seem, in turn, related to the respective ecocultures in which they were raised, as well as the one in which they rear their own children.
Households, Reurbanisation and the Rise of Living Alone in the Principal French Cities, 1975-90
Authors: Ogden Philip E. , Hall Ray
Published: July 2002

The past two decades have seen profound changes in European patterns of demographic behaviour, family formation and household structure. One aspect of the 'second demographic transition' is the appearance of new and more varied household forms, especially in the large cities. Data are analysed here for France's 10 largest cities for the period 1975-90, with particular reference to their central areas. While some continue to experience population decline through out-migration, for most the 1980s saw a reversal of their demographic fortunes, thus adding further evidence to the hypothesis of reurbanisation observed elsewhere. Analysis of household change shows large increases in numbers in most cities, even where overall population is declining. Households are becoming smaller, with up to 75 per cent of households in central cities consisting of 1 or 2 persons. The increase in 1-person households, to which particular attention is paid in this paper, has been rapid. The paper also demonstrates the decline in 'traditional families' in the cities. The rise of living alone is linked to age, gender, social status and ethnicity, with young professionals, especially women, at the cutting edge of household change.
The Economic Geographies of Manufacturing in Greater Copenhagen: Space, Evolution and Process Variety
Authors: Winther Lars
Published: July 2002

With an evolutionary theory of technological change as a conceptual framework, the paper examines the economic geographies of manufacturing production within the Copenhagen Metropolitan Area (CMA) in comparison with two growth regions in Jutland. The paper examines the economic processes underlying the industrial development patterns and reveals that there are fundamental differences between the two growth regions in Jutland and the CMA but also that the economic processes within the CMA differ between three urban regions examined. These economic processes have had a significant influence on the regional patterns of technical change and the paper shows that, although there has been an economic convergence between the regions examined, the regions follow different paths or trajectories of technical change.
Environmental Variables and Real Estate Prices
Authors: Din Allan , Hoesli Martin , Bender Andre
Published: July 2002

The aim of this paper is to compare various real estate valuation models and the manner in which they take into account environmental variables. The reference model is taken to be a standard linear regression model including ordinal variables to measure environmental quality. This type of model is widely used. It is first compared with linear models which incorporate environmental quality notes extracted from the urban habitat database of a geographic information system (GIS) which has been developed recently for Geneva, Switzerland. We also incorporate these quality notes in a single input parameter, a so-called geo-index. The price indices constructed in this way are quite similar to the more traditional hedonic model. We additionally find that artificial neural network (ANN) models, which are non-linear per se, exhibit a similar general form of the price indices, but that the detailed price behaviours of different models feature notable differences depending on the input choice of environmental variables.
Housing Tenure Choice in Transitional Urban China: A Multilevel Analysis
Authors: Huang Youqin , Clark William A. V.
Published: July 2002

Using a 1996 national survey of housing in China and a multilevel modelling technique, we examine housing tenure choice in transitional urban China where households have been granted limited freedom of choice in the housing market since the housing reforms of 1988. We find that both market mechanisms and institutional forces affect households' tenure choice in urban China. While some socioeconomic factors such as age, household size, household income and housing price have similar effects on tenure choice as in the West, others such as the number of workers and marital status have rather different effects. In addition, factors characterising institutional relationships among the state, work units and households, such as hukou, job rank and work unit rank, still play important roles in tenure choice.
The Impact of Residential Segregation on Participation in Associations: The Case of Moroccan Women in Belgium
Authors: Peleman Katleen
Published: July 2002

This article discusses the impact of residential segregation on Moroccan minority women's participation in associations. Three neighbourhood contexts in and around the city of Antwerp, Belgium are compared. P. H. Collins' matrix of domination is used to distinguish the main dominance structures: male dominance, situation as a minority and Islam. Two activities that contribute to Moroccan women's integration in society are studied: ethno-religious associations and Dutch language courses. Participation is most advanced in the ethnic neighbourhood, while living in a small ethnic community or living isolated in the suburbs proves less conducive to integration. Most surprising is that women living in the suburbs are affected by the same restrictions and dominance structures as women in an ethnic neighbourhood.
Urban Imagery and the Main Street of the Nation: The Legibility of Orchard Road in the Eyes of Singaporeans
Authors: Yeung Henry Wai-chung , Savage Victor R.
Published: July 2002

This paper applies Kevin Lynch's famous thesis of legibility to the main street of Singapore—Orchard Road. It is primarily concerned with three issues. How legible is Orchard Road in the eyes of Singaporeans? Who find Orchard Road legible? If Orchard Road is legible to Singaporeans, why is it so? Based upon a combination of comprehensive questionnaire survey of Singaporeans and personal interviews with residents and businessmen operating in Orchard Road, this paper argues that the landscape of Orchard Road, known as the Orchardscape in this paper, is very legible to most Singaporeans. Its legibility is particularly prominent among those with higher education and higher income levels. There is also a distance-decay effect in the Singaporean cognition of the Orchardscape. The legibility of the Orchardscape is explained in relation to the personal and cultural background of individual Singaporeans and landscape cues. We argue that both sets of factors must be taken into consideration in understanding the image of the city. Some practical implications for future city design and planning are offered in the concluding section of the paper.
Big Cities, Big Problems: Reason for the Elderly to Move?
Authors: Fokkema Tineke , Gierveld Jenny , Nijkamp Peter
Published: July 2002

In many European countries, data on geographical patterns of internal elderly migration show that the elderly (55+) are more likely to leave than to move to the big cities. Besides emphasising the attractive features of the destination areas (pull factors), it is often assumed that this negative balance of migration of elderly people is caused by problems which mainly the big cities have to contend with and which would have a negative effect on living conditions, especially of the elderly (push factors). Although it is well-known that big cities in Europe are faced with several specific housing and neighbourhood problems, no detailed research has been carried out so far into whether these problems are indeed seen by the elderly themselves as very negative and, if so, whether these perceived problems result in an intention to move as a result of housing and neighbourhood dissatisfaction. The aim of this article is to shed empirical light on this matter for a case study in the Netherlands.
Operational Strategy, R&D and Intra-metropolitan Clustering in a Polycentric Structure: The Advanced Electronics Industries of the Los Angeles Basin
Authors: Suarez-Villa Luis , Walrod Wallace
Published: July 2002

The multiple clustering of economic activities is one of the most distinctive characteristics of a polycentric metropolitan area. The relationship between intra-metropolitan location, research and development (R&D), operational strategy and production is analysed, to determine whether spatial clusters are more supportive of R&D than non-clustered locations. Two major operational strategies commonly utilised in advanced electronics production, outsourcing and the use of just-in-time (JIT) production methods, and their relationship with intra-metropolitan location and R&D intensity are considered, to determine their effects on spatially clustered and non-clustered establishments. The intra-metropolitan distribution of clusters in the Los Angeles basin, their potential industrial district effects, and the role of externalities are also evaluated, to determine the relationship between polycentricity and high-technology production. Extensive statistical analyses are then undertaken with establishment-level data for seven 4-digit advanced electronics sectors, in the telecommunications, electromedical and advanced computer equipment manufacturing groups in the Los Angeles basin. Comparative statistical analyses on a sample of Silicon Valley establishments are also performed, in order to place the Los Angeles basin's findings in perspective. The results of this research contradict some of the most common assumptions on the benefits of spatial industrial clustering, that have been diffused in the literature.
Immigrants from the Former Soviet Union in the Israeli Housing Market: Spatial Aspects of Supply and Demand
Authors: Lipshitz Gabriel
Published: July 2002

In the 1950s and 1960s the Israeli government did not let market forces absorb the immigrants, disperse them spatially and find them jobs. 'Planning from above' dominated immigrant absorption. The absorption of the immigrants from the former Soviet Union in the past five years is marked by a completely new policy conception, known in Israel as 'direct absorption'. The Israeli government decided to replace its strategy of intervention from above with a strategy of absorption by market forces. The objective of the present study is to examine the spatial results of this policy, by looking at the geographical distribution of immigrants from the former Soviet Union in Israel, while distinguishing between the geographical distribution of supply of housing for immigrants (the public sector versus the private sector) and the geographical distribution of demand, which is manifested in the immigrants' initial place of settlement and their redistribution by means of internal migration.
Dynamics and Potentials of Israel's Megalopolitan Processes
Authors: Kipnis Baruch A.
Published: July 2002

The notion of 'megalopolis' is used, following Gottmann, as a metaphor adopted from the ancient Greek city of Megalopolis situated at the heart of the Peloponnisos peninsula, to describe a linearly stretched system of urban agglomerations showing dense and intensified land uses and activities, and strong internal lineal socio-economic ties manifested by the movement of people, goods and information. Major urban agglomerations also act as junction nodes with other regional, national and international networks. A megalopolis is also perceived as an innovation-stimulating environment, and its metropolitan regions serve as the hard core of their region's post-industrial and post-modern activities and life-styles. Megalopolitan processes, defined along the Israeli coast in early 1980s, have gained momentum since the 1990s as a result of Israel' s entry into the post-industrial age and its expanding links with the global economy. It is assumed that if the emerging megalopolitan processes are successfully diffused into the coastal regions of neighbouring countries in peacetime, they might create, in the long run, an extended megalopolitan region along the east coast of the Mediterranean sea to evolve as the 'backbone' of a peaceful 'New' Middle East.
A Meta-analytical Evaluation of Sustainable City Initiatives
Authors: Nijkamp Peter , Pepping Gerard
Published: July 2002

The role of the city in environmental management is increasingly coming to the fore. A central element in creating urban environmental sustainability is the adoption of appropriate energy policies, since most environmental externalities in cities are directly or indirectly related to energy use. The current practice demonstrates an overwhelming variety of initiatives and policies, so that the actual success of such strategies in a cross-sectional comparative perspective is hard to evaluate. In this context, this paper offers an application of meta-analysis, as this approach is an interesting analytical contribution towards a better understanding of the critical success factors of urban energy policies. The paper starts with a general overview of the issue of urban sustainability and sets out the importance of energy policies at the urban level. It continues by offering a methodological framework for the assessment of critical factors related to the performance of sustainable energy strategies. Using a database containing information on experiences and expert expectations regarding renewable energy initiatives in 12 European cities spread over 3 countries (Italy, The Netherlands and Greece), we offer a cross-European comparative analysis of the performance of urban renewable energy technologies. This comparative analysis consists of a statistical explanation based on a probit analysis of urban sustainability data and the application of a specific meta-analytical method, called rough set analysis. The paper ends with a concluding section on policy lessons.
Rethinking Ethnic Concentration: The Case of Cabramatta, Sydney
Authors: Dunn Kevin M.
Published: July 2002

The concentration of Indo-Chinese-Australians in and around the vicinity of Cabramatta in Sydney, NSW, has been unfavourably depicted by most media, policy-makers and academics. Positive aspects of ethnic concentration in Cabramatta are rarely ever discussed. It has been axiomatic in much of the urban studies literature that ethnic concentrations were manifestations of societal malady. This assumption was based upon the premise that social distance equated with spatial distance. However, a just system of urban and social planning requires a perspective which does not automatically pathologise cultural difference. Such a system should not enforce cultural assimilation through strategies such as migrant residential dispersal. To this end, urban researchers require fresh perspectives for the analysis of ethnic concentration. One such perspective is the 'politics of difference' approach proposed by Iris Marion Young and others. A politics of difference approach celebrates institutional practices which give rise to diverse cultural expressions, and rejects the previous denial of difference which was dominant in much of urban social science. This perspective allows urban scholars to adopt a more progressive position in contemporary urban political debates about migrant settlement. It also provides a less partial assessment of ethnic concentration by seriously theorising the advantages and the dynamism of unassimilated cultural difference in a place like Cabramatta.
Nominal Group Technique: A useful method for working with young people
Authors: MacPhail Ann
Published: July 2002

Abstract This article introduces and reflects on the appropriateness of nominal group technique (NGT) in eliciting information from young school‐aged people. NGT was selected from a number of possible methods, including focus groups, brainstorming and the delphi technique. The decision to use the NGT over other group methods was determined by the nature of the issue being investigated, issues of equity and accuracy, and a preference for the more structured approach of NGT, which involves following a clear set of procedures. The article examines various methods of working with groups before outlining the key features of NGT. The practicality of using NGT with young people is addressed, and some modifications to enhance NGT's usability are noted. General benefits and limitations of the NGT approach are also considered in relation to other group methods.
Researching Values in Education
Authors: Halliday John
Published: July 2002

Abstract This article is concerned with some methodological issues that arise when values form the main focus of empirical educational research. It includes discussion of the idea that social science in general and educational research in particular are forms of moral enquiry. It draws upon Lakatos's account of the methodology of scientific research programmes, MacIntyre's account of rival traditions of moral enquiry and Gadamer's account of hermeneutics to outline a methodology of educational research. It concludes by speculating upon what might count as progressive research programmes in education and the responsibilities of those who support them.
Adolescent Outcomes of Social Functioning in Chinese Children
Authors: Chen Xinyin , Rubin Kenneth H. , Li Bo-shu , Li Dan
Published: July 2002

A sample of Chinese children in Shanghai, People’s Republic of China, initially aged 8 and 10 years, participated in this four-year longitudinal project. Information on social functioning including sociability-leadership, aggression-disruption, and shyness-sensitivity was collected from peer assessments in the original study. Data on indexes of social and school adjustment, including peer acceptance, teachers’ perceptions of school-related competence, leadership, academic achievement, adjustment problems, and self-perceptions of competence, were collected from multiple sources in the follow-up study. Consistent with Western literature, sociability-leadership positively predicted indexes of social and school adjustment. Aggression was positively associated with adolescent maladjustment for boys and adjustment for girls. Finally, inconsistent with the Western literature, shyness-sensitivity in childhood was positively predictive of indexes of adolescent adjustment such as teacher-assessed competence, leadership, and academic achievement.
The North American Control Animal Database: A Resource Based on Standardized Nomenclature and Diagnostic Criteria
Authors: Keenan Charlotte , Hughes-Earle Angela , Case Marvin , Stuart Barry , Lake Stephen , Mahrt Charles , Halliwell William , Westhouse Richard , Elwell Michael , Morton Daniel , Morawietz Gerd , Rittinghausen Susanne , Deschl Ulrich , Mohr Ulrich
Published: July 2002

Historical control data have been shown to be valuable in the interpretation and evaluation of results from rodent carcinogenicity studies. Standardization of terminology and histopathology procedures is a prerequisite for meaningful comparison of control data across studies and analysis of potential carcinogenic effects. Standardization is particularly critical for the construction of a database that includes incidence data from different studies evaluated by pathologists in different laboratories. Standardized nomenclature and diagnostic criteria have been established for neoplasms and proliferative lesions. Efforts of the National Toxicology Program, the Society of Toxicologic Pathology (STP), and the Registry of Industrial Toxicology Animal-data (RITA) have led to a harmonized pathology nomenclature for the rat and the mouse. This nomenclature with detailed descriptions of lesions is available in publications by the STP and International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). A listing of these terms is available on the World Wide Web. Utilizing the model established by RITA and working with the International Life Sciences Institute (ILSI), companies with laboratories in North America formed a working group in 1994 to establish and maintain a database of neoplastic and proliferative lesions from control animals in carcinogenicity studies. The rationale for development of the North American Control Animal Database (NACAD), the factors that influence tumor incidence, operation of the database, and the benefits to be realized by using a standardized approach are discussed.
Air Pollution and Brain Damage
Authors: Calderón-Garcidueñas Lilian , Azzarelli Biagio , Acuna Hilda , Garcia Raquel , Gambling Todd M. , Osnaya Norma , Monroy Sylvia , Del Rosario Tizapantzi Maria , Carson Johnny L. , Villarreal-Calderon Anna , Rewcastle Barry
Published: July 2002

Exposure to complex mixtures of air pollutants produces infl ammation in the upper and lower respiratory tract. Because the nasal cavity is a common portal of entry, respiratory and olfactory epithelia are vulnerable targets for toxicological damage. This study has evaluated, by light and electron microscopy and immunohistochemica l expression of nuclear factor-kappa beta (NF- κB) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), the olfactory and respiratory nasal mucosae, olfactory bulb, and cortical and subcortical structures from 32 healthy mongrel canine residents in Southwest Metropolitan Mexico City (SWMMC), a highly polluted urban region. Findings were compared to those in 8 dogs from Tlaxcala, a less polluted, control city. In SWMMC dogs, expression of nuclear neuronal NF- κB and iNOS in cortical endothelial cells occurred at ages 2 and 4 weeks; subsequent damage included alterations of the blood—brain barrier (BBB), degenerating cortical neurons, apoptotic glial white matter cells, deposition of apolipoprotein E (apoE)-positive lipid droplets in smooth muscle cells and pericytes, nonneuritic plaques , and neurofi brillary tangles. Persistent pulmonary infl ammation and deteriorating olfactory and respiratory barriers may play a role in the neuropathology observed in the brains of these highly exposed canines. Neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's may begin early in life with air pollutants playing a crucial role.
Renal Pathology in Hemizygous Sickle Cell Mice
Authors: Diwan B.A. , Gladwin M.T. , Noguchi C.T. , Ward J.M. , Fitzhugh A.L. , Buzard G.S.
Published: July 2002

Transgenic mice have been developed that express exclusively human sickle cell βhemoglobin and have major pathological features found in humans with sickle cell disease. These mice provide a unique opportunity to investigate the fundamental mechanisms of this disease and to design new strategies to correct the associated genetic defect(s). We found that in breeding males expressing only adult human α-globin and sickle β-globin (homozygous SS mice) with females containing these transgenes plus one copy of the mouse β-globin gene (hemizygous SS mice) greater than expected numbers of hemizygous offspring were produced than homozygous mice (carrying no mouse β-globin gene). These hemizygous mice, expressing the human α and sickle βstransgenes in combination with mouse β+/-, were used for our preliminary studies of their renal pathology. No kidney lesions were found in the control (129/Sv) mice, whereas about 50% of the hemizygous SS mice showed mild-to-severe kidney lesions, including glomerulonephritis, cystic atypical hyperplastic tubules, and general nephropathy. Kidneys of some hemizygous mice were normal or showed minimal nephropathy, yet those of the susceptible phenotype developed a mild-to-more-severe form of renal lesions. The tubular epithelium of kidneys of hemizygous mice of the more affected phenotype exhibited increased expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase with an increased 3-nitrotyrosine in close proximity. There was also a stronger immunostaining for vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 in the interstitial capillary cells as well as the tubular epithelial cells of the renal cortex, compared with normal control mice. The occurrence of a high incidence of renal abnormalities in our hemizygous SS mice suggests that these mice may provide a suitable model to study the pathogenesis of nephropathy resulting from altered blood fl ow and/or insuffi cient oxygen delivery.
Use of non‐prescribed methadone and other illicit drugs during methadone maintenance treatment
Authors: BEST DAVID , HARRIS JENNY , GOSSOP MICHAEL , FARRELL MICHAEL , FINCH EMILY , NOBLE ALISON , STRANG JOHN
Published: July 2002

Patterns of illicit and non‐prescribed drug use among a cohort of 100 patients in methadone maintenance treatment were tracked over a 6‐month period. While there were no statistically significant changes in alcohol or heroin use, there were significant increases in the frequency of crack cocaine and cannabis use. Use of non‐prescribed methadone had also increased. Twenty‐one percent reported non‐prescribed methadone use at follow‐up who had not done so at the first interview, with increases also in the mean quantities used. Non‐prescribed methadone use at the second interview was strongly associated with the amounts of both methadone and diazepam prescribed at each of the data collecting points.
Which drugs cause overdose among opiate misusers? Study of personal and witnessed overdoses
Authors: Strang John , Griffiths Paul , Powis Beverly , Fountain Jane , Williamson Sara , Gossop Michael
Published: July 2002

Concern has been expressed at the widespread prescribing of methadone in view of its inherent toxicity. Commentators have opined that methadone is more toxic than heroin and causes more overdose deaths. However, data deficiencies and flawed analyses leave continuing uncertainty about this crucial policy issue. The relative contributions of heroin, other opiates (e.g. methadone) and non‐opiate drugs to overdose and overdose deaths among drug misusers were examined in a community‐recruited sample of 312 injecting drug misusers in London. Data were collected on last personal overdose (n=117), last witnessed overdose (n=167) and last witnessed fatal overdose (n=55), and on the different drugs that had been involved with these overdoses. Heroin was involved in 83% of last personal overdoses, 90% of last witnessed overdoses and 80% of last witnessed fatal overdoses, while other opiates were involved in only 18%, 8% and 26%, respectively. Methadone accounted for about half of these “other opiate” overdoses. Overdoses involving a combination of heroin and a non‐opiate were common − 29%, 21% and 39%, respectively. Heroin was the drug most frequently involved in overdose across all three areas of study. However, combinations of heroin and a non‐opiate were surprisingly frequent, especially in witnessed fatal overdoses (as reported recently by other investigators using different methodologies). Considering the wide extent of methadone prescribing to this group, methadone was remarkably infrequently reported as responsible (solely or in combination) for either personal overdoses, witnessed overdoses or witnessed fatal overdoses.
Raves, drugs, dealing and driving: qualitative data from a West Australian sample
Authors: LENTON SIMON , DAVIDSON PETER
Published: July 2002

This qualitative paper from a study of 83 people who attended raves or dance parties in Perth, Western Australia describes what respondents saw as the attractions and less good things about the rave/dance party scene, their views of the place of drug use within the scene, experiences obtaining and providing drugs and addresses the issue of driving while intoxicated. Non‐drug factors such as lighting, music, dancing, the non‐violent atmosphere, sense of social cohesion and relative lack of predatory male sexual behaviour were the major attractions of the scene, yet it was noted that these were enhanced by the effects of dance drugs, especially ecstasy. There were dual concerns that younger participants were at increased risk of drug‐related harm and brought unwanted drug‐related media attention and disrepute on the scene. The study supports the view that raves are not ‘drug supermarkets’, with most respondents obtaining their drugs many days before the event. A substantial minority of respondents described travelling to or from raves with drivers who were drug‐affected. Less than half those who discussed the issue said they considered whether the driver was under the influence. This is of concern and has implications for policing practices, peer education and rave‐related materials.
John Rae: The Lost Letters: Foreword
Authors: Mair Douglas
Published: July 2002

The one man who has done more than any other to re-establish John Rae's reputation as a political economist of the first rank is R. Warren James. The year 1996 marked the bi-centenary of Rae's birth and coincided with the 500th anniversary celebration of the founding of Aberdeen University, Rae's alma mater. When Omar Hamouda and I discovered that we were independently trying to organize Rae bicentenary conferences in Canada and in Scotland, we felt it made sense to pool our energies and hold a conference in Aberdeen in 1996. In the event, more than thirty Rae scholars attended from around the world and the conference proceedings were published as The Economics of John Rae (1998). Unfortunately, James was unable to attend, but it was the unanimous decision of all assembled that the conference volume be dedicated to him.
The Validity of Self‐Reported Drug Use in Non‐Treatment Seeking Individuals with Cocaine Dependence: Correlation with Biochemical Assays
Authors: Elman Igor , Krause Sara , Breiter Hans C. , Gollub Randy L. , Heintges Judith , Baumgartner Werner A. , Rosen Bruce R. , Gastfriend David R.
Published: July 2002

Accurate estimate of drug exposure plays an important role in studies of the neurobiology of drug dependence. The validity of self‐reported drug use by subjects participating in such studies has not been well established. This study examined the relationship between self‐reported drug use and biological markers in 18 non‐treatment‐seeking cocaine‐dependent individuals participating in research on the effects of cocaine on the brain. A significant relationship was found between self‐reported frequency of cocaine use and hair cocaine concentration. Frequency of alcohol use correlated significantly with plasma carbohydrate‐deficient transferrin and aspartate aminotransferase levels. These results suggest that self‐reported substance use in non‐treatment seeking research subjects is generally valid.