bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expression of Bcl‐2 and p53 protein in resectable invasive ductal carcinoma of the pancreas: Effects on clinical outcome and efficacy of adjuvant chemotherapy
Authors: Nio Yoshinori , Dong Ming , Iguchi Chikage , Yamasawa Kunihiro , Toga Tomoko , Itakura Masayuki , Tamura Katsuhiro
Published: August 2002

Background and Objectives

p53 tumor suppressor gene has a dual role as a trigger of apoptosis and as an initiator of DNA repair. The Bcl‐2 can work to protect cells from apoptosis, which is induced by p53 gene. These facts suggest the significant role of these genes in the genesis and progression of various tumors. The present study was designed to assess the significance of p53 and Bcl‐2 protein (pBcl‐2) expression on resectable invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) of the pancreas.

Methods

The present study included 63 IDCs, which were resected between 1982 and 1998. pBcl‐2 and p53 were stained immunohistochemically with monoclonal antibodies.

Results

pBcl‐2 was expressed in 16 (25.4%), and p53 was positively expressed in 32 out of 63 IDCs (50.8%); however, expression of pBcl‐2 did not necessarily correlate with that of p53. Although p53 expression did not show any significant influence on the patients' survival, pBcl‐2(+) patients showed a higher survival than pBcl‐2(−) patients for both p53(+) and p53(−) patients, which suggested that pBcl‐2 expression had a more significant effect on the survival of patients than p53 expression. On the other hand, there were no differences in the survival curve between the adjuvant chemotherapy (ACT) group and the surgery alone (SA) group. pBcl‐2 expression had no influence on the effect of ACT, the ACT group showed a significantly better survival than the SA group for p53(+) IDC patients.

Conclusions

pBcl‐2 expression is a beneficial prognostic factor for patients with IDC, whereas p53 expression may be beneficial in the prediction of the effects of adjuvant chemotherapy on patients with IDC. J. Surg. Oncol. 2001;76:188–196. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Primary Kaposi sarcoma of the bowel in a HIV‐negative patient
Authors: Insabato Luigi , di Vizio Dolores , Terracciano Luigi Maria , Pettinato Guido , Staibano Stefania , Bifano Delfina , D'Agostino Luciano
Published: August 2002

A case of Kaposi sarcoma with HIV‐negative and sequence of HHV‐8 positive and exclusive rectosigmoid and descending colon involvement without immunodeficiency is reported. Histologically, in addition to typical features of Kaposi sarcoma, Cowdry type A inclusions were seen. PCR analysis of the tumor showed positivity for human herpesvirus 8. Two of the six reported cases of Kaposi sarcoma limited to the bowel were from African men before the AIDS epidemic. J. Surg. Oncol. 2001;76:197–200. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Combined colon and hepatic resection for synchronous colorectal liver metastases
Authors: Lyass Sergey , Zamir Gideon , Matot Idit , Goitein David , Eid Ahmed , Jurim Oded
Published: August 2002

Background and Objectives:

The surgical strategy for the treatment of resectable synchronous hepatic metastases of colorectal cancer remains controversial. This study was performed to assess the outcome of combined resection of colorectal cancer and liver metastases.

Methods:

The perioperative data, morbidity, and survival of the patients who underwent combined colon and liver resections for synchronous colorectal liver metastases from 1988 to 1999 were compared to the parameters of the patients who underwent colon resection followed by resection of liver metastases in a staged setting.

Results:

198 hepatic resections were performed, of which 112 procedures in 103 patients were done for metastatic colorectal carcinoma. Twenty six patients (25%) had combined hepatic and colon resection and were compared to 86 patients with metachronous metastases who underwent colon and hepatic resection in the staging setting. Postoperative morbidity was 27 and 35%, respectively. There was no hospital mortality in the combined group vs. 2.3% in the staged group. Blood loss, intensive care unit (ICU) stay and length of postoperative stay (LOS) were similar in both groups. The 5 years cumulative survival of the group after combined surgery was 28% vs. 27% of the group after isolated hepatic resections (P = 0.21).

Conclusion:

Combined colon and hepatic resection is a safe and efficient procedure for the treatment of synchronous colorectal liver metastases. It can be performed with acceptable morbidity and no perioperative mortality. The survival after combined procedure is comparable to the one achieved after staged procedure of colon resection followed by liver resection. J. Surg. Oncol. 2001;78:17–21. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
International price competitiveness of Australia's MICE industry
Authors: Dwyer Larry , Mistilis Nina , Forsyth Peter , Rao Prasada
Published: August 2002

A special‐interest tourist market that holds out great promise for continued growth well into the next century is that of MICE (meetings, incentives, conventions, exhibitions). At the same time, changing prices in particular destinations relative to others are regarded as one of the most important economic influences on destination shares of total international tourism flows. The question arises as to the price competitiveness of major competing MICE destinations. Although earlier research has recognised that a destination's price competitiveness differs according to a visitor's country of origin there has been relatively little attention paid to tourism price competitiveness from the perspective of those having different motives for travel. This paper has four major aims: first, to provide a method by which price competitiveness of tourism by journey purpose can be estimated; second, to construct price competitiveness indices that measure, absolutely and relative to major competitors world‐wide, the price competitiveness of Australia's MICE tourism industry; third, to compare Australia's price competitiveness as a MICE destination with its price competitiveness for total inbound tourism; fourth, to discuss the implications of the results for travel and tourism decision‐makers in both the private and public sectors. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Trade and associated groups in the English tourism policy arena
Authors: Tyler Duncan , Dinan Claire
Published: August 2002

The role and influence of trade and associated groups in England's tourism policy environment is of increasing importance given recent changes in the consultative processes undertaken by the Department of Culture Media and Sport (the government department sponsoring the tourism industry in Parliament). Yet researchers working within the realm of tourism studies have paid little attention to their characteristics, objectives and tactics. This article, therefore, sets out to address these issues by drawing on the results of phase one of a two‐phase research project into the influence of trade and associated groups on policy development. The article reports the findings of a survey into the objectives and tactics used by the groups in policy communications and links this to structural changes in the landscape of the tourism policy. In doing this it suggests how certain relationships have developed between government and groups, how groups collaborate on policy issues and how this may have influenced the direction of tourism policy in the England. Using the results of this research and an analysis of government policy related announcements over the past two years we hypothesise on how successful the groups have been to data, and proposes areas for future research. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The UK air inclusive‐tour industry: a reassessment of the competitive positioning of the ‘independent’ sector
Authors: Evans Nigel G.
Published: August 2002

This paper investigates the increasing concentration in the UK air inclusive‐tour (AIT) market and the behaviour of the dominant companies (Thomson, Airtours, First Choice and Thomas Cook) operating in the sector. Arguments relating to the theoretical organisational structure of the industry are explored and regulatory investigations that have taken place are discussed. Research evidence as to the competitive position of independent tour operators in the overall UK AIT market is provided. The research indicates that a key area of difficulty for the independent sector relates to the provision of charter airline capacity although access to distribution channels and the ability to contract accommodation are viewed as further concerns. The paper concludes that regulatory authorities are faced with trying to ensure that diversity is maintained while at the same time ensuring any economies of scale derived from consolidation of the sector are passed on to consumers. In order to properly understand the true effects of industrial concentration the assembled package must be dissembled into its component parts and an increasingly a pan‐European perspective is necessary. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Tourism and socio‐economic development: UK tour operators' business approaches in the context of the new international agenda
Authors: Tapper Richard
Published: August 2002

Rapid growth of tourism to developing countries has led to new international expectations for tourism as an agent of socio‐economic development. This paper describes these new expectations, reviews the influence of tour operators on tourism‐dependent economies, and reports research into ways that UK outbound tour operators could respond to the new international expectations of their business ethic and practices. It shows that structural and business practice issues, especially local economic linkages in the supply chain, need to be addressed if the tourism industry is to contribute effectively to meeting new expectations of its role in socio‐economic development in developing countries. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Chemical forms of metallothionein and cellular oxidative stress in human hepatocellular carcinoma: A comparative study with the hepatitis of LEC rat
Authors: Nakayama Akihiro , Tawa Riichi , Masuyama Nobuyuki , Ebara Masaaki , Fukuda Hiroyuki , Suzuki Keiji , Nakajima Katsuyuki , Sakurai Hiromu
Published: August 2002

Metallothionein (MT) has been described as a cell‐protective protein that binds several heavy metals. In mammals, MT plays an important physiological role that includes detoxifying heavy metals, accumulating essential trace elements in cells to maintain homeostasis, and scavenging reactive oxygen species or free radicals. In contrast, the generation of hydroxyl radical (·OH) has been reported in the reaction of hydrogen peroxide and copper (Cu)‐MT separated from the livers of Long–Evans Cinnamon (LEC) rats, an animal model of human hepatic injury with unusual accumulation of Cu‐MT in the liver. On the other hand, Cu has been reported to accumulate in human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Thus, we investigated whether the induction of MT, accumulation of Cu, and enhancement of oxidative stress are relevant to the development of human HCC, similarly to the observations in the liver of LEC rats. Although the kinetic behaviors of metal and MT levels were different in the livers of humans and LEC rats, Cu‐MT induction in the tumor portion of human HCC tissues was suggested to occur similarly to that in the liver of LEC rats. In addition, it was found that oxidative stress in terms of the level of thiobarbituric acid‐reactive substances was enhanced in the tumor portion of human HCC, corresponding well with increasing in the age of LEC rats, which developed jaundice and hepatitis. On the basis of these results, we conclude that the induction of Cu‐MT in human HCC might be related to the hepatic oxidative stress, which in turn develops hepatic injury involving carcinoma. J. Trace Elem. Exp. Med. 15:31–45, 2002. ©2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Thermodynamic functions for the cyclopentadienyl radical: The effect of Jahn–Teller distortion
Authors: Kiefer John H. , Tranter Robert S. , Wang Hai , Wagner Albert F.
Published: August 2002

We report CASSCF/cc‐PVDZ calculations of the potential surface for the title Jahn–Teller molecule. Energies are calculated along all normal coordinates that can be affected by Jahn–Teller distortion. Both the E′2 in‐plane bend and stretch modes are found to be involved, but the bend contribution is very small and its contribution to the entropy is negligible. The in‐plane stretch modes strongly dominate, affording a maximum stabilization energy of 4.73 kcal/mol. Harmonic frequencies are calculated for the other modes in the D5h configuration, and these are scaled in accordance with a comparison of experimental frequencies with similar calculations on cyclopentadiene. Energy levels for nuclear motion in the Jahn–Teller modes are then determined using the calculated surface, and these are combined with the scaled harmonic frequencies to obtain complete thermodynamic functions for the radical. The results are then fit to both the NASA polynomial form and a compact power series in inverse temperature for modeling applications. Because of changes in degeneracy and symmetry number, the entropy is actually lower than previous estimates. Nonetheless, the effect of the pseudorotation on the entropy is noticeable over the entire span of temperatures. This work is evidently the first to present both energy levels and thermodynamic functions for a Jahn–Teller molecule derived from a complete and consistent theoretical treatment. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Int J Chem Kinet 33: 834–845, 2001
Life cycles of organizational ‘bottom‐up’ development ideas
Authors: Forssén Minna
Published: August 2002

This paper deals with the utilization of bottom‐up development ideas. Its target is to study the life cycle of bottom‐up development ideas and factors that either prevent or facilitate the progress of ideas in organizations. The study follows the inductive process of building theory from cases. The data was collected in two industrial companies by interviewing 46 persons. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Resurfacing of photodamaged skin on the neck with an UltraPulse® carbon dioxide laser
Authors: Fitzpatrick Richard E. , Goldman Mitchel P. , Sriprachya‐Anunt Suchai
Published: August 2002

Background and Objective

Successful treatment of facial wrinkles with carbon dioxide or erbium laser resurfacing brings about a more youthful appearance of the skin on the face. A variable degree of contrast with the untreated skin on the neck prompts many patients to request treatment for photodamaged skin on the neck. The objective is to investigate the feasibility of resurfacing photodamaged skin on the neck with the UltraPulse® carbon dioxide laser.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

The study was carried out in two phases. During the first phase, a small area on the upper neck was tested with three different parameters. The best parameter was then used to treat the neck area in a single pass in 10 cases in the second phase. Patients were then evaluated at 3–6 months.

Results

The three parameters tested were 200 mJ at CPG settings of pattern 3, size 9, density 6, 300 mJ at CPG 3‐9‐5, and 300 mJ at CPG 3‐9‐6. The latter seemed to achieve the best results, and there were no complications at any test sites. This setting was used to treat the whole anterior and anterolateral part of the neck with a single pass, wiping away the resultant epidermal debris. Moderate improvement in color and texture, but no improvement in wrinkling, were observed at 3–6 months. However, a mild degree of patchy hypopigmented scarring in the lower neck was encountered in three cases, as well as one other case of patchy hypopigmentation without textural changes.

Conclusions

Despite some obvious improvements, the risk of scarring and hypopigmentation with the tested parameters out‐weighs the potential benefits. The lower part of the neck responded very differently from the upper part. Alternative strategies to achieve better results are discussed. Lasers Surg. Med. 28:145–149, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Terminal hair growth after full thickness skin graft: Treatment with normal mode ruby laser
Authors: Thomson Kathryn F. , Sommer Sabine , Sheehan‐Dare Robert A.
Published: August 2002

Background and Objective

Treatment of hirsutism is often unsatisfactory with many of the currently used methods providing only temporary improvement. The use of lasers for hair removal has shown promising results and treatment by using the normal mode ruby laser has provided reduction in hair numbers sustained on follow‐up. We report a woman who developed terminal hair growth at the site of a full thickness skin graft and describe her successful treatment with the normal mode ruby laser. Lasers Surg. Med. 28:156–158, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cell attachment modulation by radiation from a pulsed light diode (λ = 820 nm) and various chemicals
Authors: Karu Tiina I. , Pyatibrat Ludmila V. , Kalendo Galina S.
Published: August 2002

Background and Objective

Adhesive interactions between cells and extracellular matrices play a regulative role in wound repair processes. The objective of this investigation is to study the mechanisms of light action on cellular adhesion in vitro. The adhesion of HeLa cells to a glass matrix is evaluated after irradiation with a pulsed near‐infrared (IR) diode and treatment with various chemicals.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

A semiconductor diode (820 ± 10 nm, 10Hz, 16–120 J/m2) is used for irradiation of the cell suspension. In parallel experiments, various chemicals (mannitol, melatonin, ethanol, ascorbic acid, superoxide dismutase, catalase, rotenone, azide, dinitrophenol (DNP), methylene blue, and hydrogen peroxide) are added to the cell suspension before or after the irradiation procedure. The cell‐glass adhesion is studied by using the adhesion assay technique (Lasers Surg. Med. 1996;18:171).

Results

It has been found that cell‐glass adhesion increases in a dose‐dependent manner after irradiation. The treatment of the cells with antioxidants (free radical scavengers), e.g., mannitol, melatonin, ethanol, and ascorbic acid, as well as with the ionophore DNP, eliminated the light effect. The respiratory chain inhibitors rotenone and azide strongly modified the light effect, depending on the dose. The oxidative agents hydrogen peroxide (in a low concentration) and methylene blue increased the cell adhesion. Superoxide dismutase did not modify the light effect. The effect of the catalase (stimulative or suppressive) was dependent on its concentration and treatment sequence. Preirradiation was found to decrease (or normalize to the control level) the suppressive effects of some chemicals.

Conclusion

The results obtained are evidence that first, pulsed IR radiation with certain parameters modulates the cell‐matrix attachment. second, free radical and redox processes are involved in the cell‐matrix interaction, probably at some stage(s) of the photosignal transduction. Third, both types of the primary reactions in the respiratory chain, namely, the increase of the electron flow and production of the reactive oxygen species, cause a transient oxidative stress in the cytoplasm. Lasers Surg. Med. 28:227–236, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The 980‐nm diode laser as a new stimulant for laser evoked potentials studies
Authors: Gülsoy Murat , Durak Kadir , Kurt Adnan , Karamürsel Sacit , Çilesiz Inci
Published: August 2002

Background and Objective

Lasers have been used as stimulators for creating pain response without stimulating mechanoreceptive fibers. Various laser systems are still under investigation on the quest for best laser system. Our objective was to test the feasibility of the 980‐nm diode laser for LEP (laser evoked potentials) studies.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

Laser evoked potentials created by using the 980‐nm diode laser were recorded by using standard electroencephalogram (EEG) techniques. The collimated laser beam was 3 mm in diameter. Stimulus duration was set to 200 msec. The power of laser stimulus exposed to the dorsum of the right hand of 10 healthy volunteer subjects (5 women and 5 men) was varied between 0 and 10 watts to determine the pain threshold. EEG signals during the exposure of 1.5 times the threshold value were recorded from scalp electrodes placed on areas Fz, Cz, Pz, C3, and C4 according to the international 10–20 system. The stimulus presented during the EEG recording was described as a bearable pain sensation like a pinprick perception by the subjects. After 0.1–30 Hz analog low‐pass filtering, 100‐msec prestimulus, and 900‐msec poststimulus EEG epochs were recorded at 256 Hz sampling rate and evaluated statistically. Thirty stimuli were presented by randomly varying the interstimulus duration between 5 and 9 seconds.

Results

Latency and amplitude values of LEPs were found in accordance with those reported in the literature.

Conclusion

The 980‐nm diode laser used is a suitable stimulator for LEP studies. Lasers Surg. Med. 28:244–247, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Comparison of Er:YAG and 9.6‐μm TE CO2 lasers for ablation of skull tissue
Authors: Fried Nathaniel M. , Fried Daniel
Published: August 2002

Background and Objective

Craniotomy by using a drill and saw frequently results in fragmentation of the skull plate. Lasers have the potential to remove the skull plate intact, simplifying the reconstructive surgery.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

Transverse‐excited CO2 lasers operating at the peak absorption wavelength of bone (λ = 9.6 μm) and with pulse durations of 5–8 μsec, approximately the thermal relaxation time in hard tissue, produced high ablation rates and minimal peripheral thermal damage. Both thick (2 mm) and thin (250 μm) bovine skull samples were perforated and the ablation rates calculated. Results were compared with Q‐switched and free‐running Er:YAG lasers (λ = 2.94 μm, τp = 0.5 μsec and 300 μsec).

Results

The CO2 laser produced ablation rates of up to 60 and 15 μm per pulse for thin and thick sections, respectively, and perforated thin and thick sections with fluences of less than 1 J/cm2 and 6 J/cm2, respectively. There was no discernible thermal damage and no need for water irrigation during ablation. Pulse durations ≥20 μsec resulted in significant tissue charring, which increased with the pulse duration. Although the free‐running Er:YAG laser produced ablation rates of up to 100 μm per pulse, fluences of 10 J/cm2 and 30 J/cm2 were required to perforate thin and thick samples, respectively, and peripheral thermal damage measured 25–40 μm.

Conclusions

In summary, the novel 5‐ to 8‐μsec pulse length of the TE CO2 laser is long enough to avoid a marked reduction in the ablation rate due to plasma formation and short enough to avoid peripheral thermal damage through thermal diffusion during the laser pulse. Furthermore, in vivo animal studies with the TE CO2 laser are warranted for potential clinical application in craniotomy and craniofacial procedures. Lasers Surg. Med. 28:335–343, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effect of photodynamic therapy (PDT) on the expression of pro‐apoptotic protein bak in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC)
Authors: Lai Jinping , Tao Zhengde , Xiao Jianyun , Yan Yahui , Wang Xiongwei , Wang Chenglong , Zhou Suping , Tian Yongquan
Published: August 2002

Background and Objective

To investigate the effect of photodynamic therapy (PDT) on expression of the pro‐apoptotic gene Bak in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC).

Study Design/Materials and Methods

Apoptosis and expression of the pro‐apoptotic gene Bak on the tumor tissues from both pre‐ and post‐PDT were determined using the in situ end labeling (ISEL), standard immunohistochemistry technique and western blot, respectively, in 24 patients with either persistent or recurrent NPC after radiotherapy.

Results

Before PDT, apoptotic index (AI) in tumor tissue was 1.2 ± 0.6. At 6, 12, 24 and 48 hours after PDT, AI were 6.5 ± 3.1, 23.6 ± 8.3, 67.2 ± 14.2 and 89.3 ± 8.1, respectively. PDT caused apoptosis in a time‐dependent fashion. Immunohistochemical assay indicated that 75% (18/24) of the patients had an upgrade expression of Bak protein in their tumor tissues after PDT. Increases in expression of Bak from PDT were also confirmed by western blot analysis.

Conclusions

PDT probably causes NPC cell apoptosis through an upregulation of the pro‐apoptotic protein Bak expression. Lasers Surg. Med. 29:27–32, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Optimal solder and power density for diode laser tissue soldering (LTS)
Authors: Cooper Christopher S. , Schwartz Ian P. , Suh Donald , Kirsch Andrew J.
Published: August 2002

Background and Objective

Laser tissue soldering (LTS) using albumin and indocyanine green dye (ICG) is an effective technique utilized in various reconstructive surgical procedures. The purpose of this study was to describe in vivo and in vitro temperature profiles of an albumin‐based solder while varying ICG concentration and laser power density (PD), and to describe immediate and short‐term tensile strength measurements and histology of tissue with variable ICG concentrations and PD.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

ICG ranged from 0.31 to 20 mg/mL while PD ranged from 3.2 to 63.7 W/cm2. Direct solder temperature measurements were obtained at 5‐second intervals during laser activation. Differential temperature measurements were determined within the dermis of rat skin and the overlying solder.

Eighteen rats were subjected to 2.0‐cm incisions (n = 113) created on the dorsal skin followed by closure with LTS at varying PD and ICG concentrations. ICG concentrations included 0.31, 2.5, and 20 mg/mL, while PD ranged from 8.0 to 63.7 W/cm2. Tensile strength (TS) profiles were measured immediately and 10 days post‐operatively. Histological examination was performed at the time of sacrifice.

Results

Temperature profiles of the ICG/albumin solder differed significantly only at the highest concentration of ICG (20 mg/mL), but showed statistically significant variability at different laser PD. Using solder color changes as an endpoint of LTS, average peak solder temperature ranged from 69°C at a PD of 8.0 W/cm2, 105°–120°C at PD 15.9–31.8 W/cm2, and > 200°C at PD ≥ 47.7 W/cm2. Peak intradermal temperatures remained below 50°C at all PDs.

Varying ICG concentration only had an effect on the immediate TS of wounds at the lowest power densities. Increasing PD resulted in statistically significant increases in immediate TS up to a PD of 23.9 W/cm2 at an ICG concentrations of 0.31 and up to a PD of 15.9 W/cm2 at a concentration of 2.5 mg/mL. Statistically insignificant decreases in 10‐day would strength resulted from higher PD. Power densities ≥ 23.9 W/cm2 showed significant thermal injury upon histologic examination.

Conclusions

Power density, not ICG concentration, is the primary determinant of solder and tissue temperature during LTS. Effective and reproducible laser tissue soldering may be achieved primarily by power density control when using diode laser and ICG‐based albumin solder. Alterations in PD show the most direct and predictable effects on the healing properties of skin closed by LTS. Optimal laser wound closure occurs with an ICG of 2.5 mg/mL and at a PD between 15.9 and 23.9 W/cm2. Lasers Surg. Med. 29:53–61, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
When buyers also sell: The implications of pricing policies for customer satisfaction
Authors: Hoyer Wayne D. , Herrmann Andreas , Huber Frank
Published: August 2002

In certain purchase situations, such as when a new car is purchased and an old vehicle is traded in, individuals simultaneously play the role of buyers and sellers. It is interesting to observe that, when evaluating the purchase and selling prices of the new and old products respectively, such consumers often fail to behave rationally. For example, a discount on the price of the new commodity and an equivalent markup on the old product will be weighted differently. This empirical phenomenon can be analyzed with the aid of the prospect theory—an approach based on the descriptive decision theory. This theory facilitates the elaboration of decision‐making rules for determining the optimum purchase or selling price from the supplier's point of view. An analytical causal study conveys an idea of the significance of this aspect of pricing policy for consumer satisfaction with the purchase act. Specifically, the study examines how the attractiveness of the offer impacts on and combines with satisfaction with deal, customer service, and condition of the vehicle to determine satisfaction with the vehicle purchase. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Different mutation status of the β‐catenin gene in carcinogen‐induced colon, brain, and oral tumors in rats
Authors: Suzui Masumi , Sugie Shigeyuki , Mori Hideki , Okuno Masataka , Tanaka Takuji , Moriwaki Hisataka
Published: August 2002

Mutations in the region corresponding to the N‐terminal phosphorylation sites (codons 1–51) of the rat β‐catenin gene (Ctnnb1) were investigated in rat colon tumors induced by 1‐hydroxyanthraquinone (1‐HA) plus methylazoxymethanol (MAM) acetate, by using polymerase chain reaction (PCR)–single‐strand conformation polymorphism (SSCP) analysis. The β‐catenin gene was also screened for mutations in rat brain and oral tumors induced by ethyl nitrosourea (ENU) and 4‐nitroquinoline 1‐oxide (4‐NQO), respectively. In colon tumors, β‐catenin gene mutations were found in two of three adenomas (67%) and 26 of 28 adenocarcinomas (93%), with a total incidence of 90% (28 of 31 adenomas plus adenocarcinomas). Eight (29%) were 34G→T (second position), eight (29%) were 32G→A (first position), five (18%) were 34G→A (first position), five (18%) were 41C→T (second position), one (4%) was 34G→A (second position), and one (4%) was 32A→G (second position), mutations, resulting in the substitutions of Gly34→Val, Asp32→Asn, Gly34→Arg, Thr41→Ile, Gly34→Glu, and Asp32→Gly, respectively. The 34G→T (second position) mutations found in this study were unique compared to those found in other carcinogen‐induced rat colon carcinogenesis models. In contrast, β‐catenin gene mutations were not found in either the brain or oral tumors. These results suggest that mutations in the β‐catenin gene in rat tumors occur in specific tissues or organ sites and in a carcinogen‐specific manner. Thus, the mutation spectrum in the β‐catenin gene is organ‐ and chemical carcinogen‐specific. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Regulation of the differentiation‐related gene Drg‐1 during mouse skin carcinogenesis
Authors: Gómez‐Casero Elena , Navarro Manuel , Rodríguez‐Puebla Marcelo L. , Larcher Fernando , Paramio Jesús M. , Conti Claudio J. , Jorcano José L.
Published: August 2002

Differentiation‐related gene‐1 (Drg‐1) has been identified as a gene whose expression is increased in several processes related to differentiation, but its function is currently unknown. In this report, we show that Drg‐1 was expressed in keratinocytes, this expression being rapidly increased as a result of induction by 12‐O‐tetradecanoylphorbol‐13‐acetate (TPA) or the presence of an activating form of Ha‐ras. Induction by TPA occurred both in cultured cell lines and primary keratinocytes as well as in mouse skin after a single TPA application. Overexpression of Drg‐1 was also observed in TPA‐induced hyperplastic skin. In agreement, mouse skin papillomas and carcinomas also overexpressed Drg‐1. In addition, Drg‐1 was induced when keratinocytes were forced to differentiate by calcium switch or serum starvation. Analysis of the expression of Drg‐1 during the keratinocyte cell cycle demonstrated relatively high levels of Drg‐1 mRNA in G0, which increased in early G1 and decreased afterwards in late G1/S. In situ analysis showed an accumulation of Drg‐1 in the suprabasal layers of the skin, as well as in the more differentiated areas of mouse skin papillomas. These results suggest that, in addition to being upregulated during keratinocyte differentiation, the Drg‐1 gene might have a complex function in skin tumorigenesis. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Determination of tri‐ through heptachlorobiphenyls in water samples by SPME‐GC‐MS‐MS: Comparison of PDMS and PDMS‐DVB coatings
Authors: Landín Pedro , Llompart María , Lourido Mercedes , Cela Rafael
Published: August 2002

Solid‐phase microextraction technique coupled to gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry–mass spectrometry has been applied to the extraction of polychlorinated biphenyls ranging from three to seven chlorine substituents. The behavior of two polymeric coatings, polydimethylsiloxane and polydimethylsiloxane‐divinylbenzene was extensively studied. The influence of experimental parameters as extraction mode (direct and headspace approach), temperature, volume of sample, agitation, and sample time were evaluated. The two fibers were adequate for polychlorobiphenyl (PCB) extraction and analytes could be quantified at the subpicogram per milliliter level with extraction times of 60 min. Nevertheless, comparison of extraction efficiencies showed the advantages of working with the mixed coating, specially for less chlorinated PCBs. Linearity was evaluated for a 200‐fold concentration range from femtogram per milliliter to picogram per milliliter level. The two coatings were applied to the determination of the target analytes in two different matrices. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Micro Sep 13: 275–284, 2001
Use of cyclodextrins for the separation of monoterpene isomers by micellar electrokinetic capillary chromatography
Authors: Rodrigues Maria Regina A. , Caramão Elina B. , Arce Lourdes , Rios Angel , Valcárcel Miguel
Published: August 2002

The micellar electrokinetic capillary chromatographic method for the determination of monoterpenes such as camphene, α‐pinene, β‐pinene, γ‐terpinene, α‐terpinene, terpinolene and p‐cymene was established. Addition of cyclodextrins (CDs) to the buffer solution permits the separation of these monoterpenes. The separation is dependent on the type of CD, and gamma‐CD was the most effective cyclodextrin, in the method here developed. The method permits low concentrations of monoterpenes to be separated and detected. The addition of an organic solvent (acetonitrile) as modifier in the buffer (10 mM NaH2PO4, 6 mM Na2B4O7, 50 mM SDS, 7 mM de γ‐CD) allowed this separation. The analysis was performed with a positive power supply of 20 kV at a temperature of 25°C. The samples were hydrostatically (5 s) introduced into the anodic end of the capillary and electropherograms were recorded at 200 nm. This method could be highly suitable for the separation and determination of monoterpenes in essential oils of leaves, and the flowers of marjoram and oregano among other real samples. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Micro Sep 13: 293–299, 2001
Determination of isoelectric point and investigation of immunoreaction in peanut allergenic proteins–rabbit IgG antibody system by whole‐column imaged capillary isoelectric focusing
Authors: Wu Xing‐Zheng , Huang Tiemin , Mullett Wayne M. , Yeung Jupiter M. , Pawliszyn Janusz
Published: August 2002

The recently developed whole‐column imaged capillary isoelectric focusing is an advanced technique for the pI determination of proteins. In this study, we initially applied this technique to determine the pI of peanut allergens and its antibody, rabbit IgG. Two main proteins, Ara h I and Ara h II, were found in the peanut allergen solution. Their pI values were determined to be about 4.5–4.7 and 5.1–5.6, respectively. The value of pI for the antibody rabbit IgG was 6.1–6.5. Second, the immunoreaction selectivity of the two main peanut allergenic proteins with antibody rabbit IgG was studied. The CIEF results show that the peanut allergen Ara h II has a larger affinity for binding to the antibody rabbit IgG than Ara h I. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Micro Sep 13: 322–326, 2001
Monitoring of extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK) activity with capillary electrophoresis
Authors: Ban Eunmi , Nam Hui‐Sun , Yu Eunah , Yoo Young Sook
Published: August 2002

Extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK), which is an isoform of mitogen‐activated protein kinases (MAPKs), is an important component of various signaling pathways. ERK phosphorylates numerous substrates including myelin basic protein (MBP) and is one of the key components in linking growth factor receptor activation to serine/threonine protein phosphorylation processes. We investigated a rapid and safe method for determining ERK activity using capillary electrophoresis (CE). ERK converts MBP substrate to phosphorylated MBP product. The phosphorylation reactions of MBP by ERK were studied under varied experimental conditions. Reaction mixtures were carried out using MBP substrate and by adding ERK as well as adenosine triphosphosphate (ATP). The CE analysis method was performed in untreated fused‐silica capillary columns of 37 cm×75 μm i.d. and 185 nm wavelength using the 150 mM tris‐phosphate buffer (pH 2.5) as a run buffer. The method of CE provided a very rapid analysis time of less than 10 min and high reproducibility within 5% of RSD% for MBP substrate detection. In this article, ERK reactions were determined from the decrease in MBP substrates using the CE method while the formation of phosphorylated MBP product by ERK reaction was monitored using the matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrum (MALDI‐TOF MS) method. These results suggest that CE can be applied to many other enzymatic assays because of its various advantages such as nonradiolabeled substrates usage, short analysis time, and inexpensive expenses. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Micro Sep 13: 332–336, 2001
Identification of thiosteranes in contaminated marine sediments from the Mediterranean Sea by capillary GC‐MS and capillary GC‐AED*
Authors: Louati A. , Elleuch B. , Sandra P. , David F. , Saliot A. , Dagaut J. , Oudot J.
Published: August 2002

A series of unknown cyclic compounds was detected in the capillary GC‐MS analyses of extracts of marine sediments from the Tunisian coast at the Mediterranean sea. Using capillary GC‐atomic emission detection (AED), sulphur was elucidated in their structure. This allowed identification of the solutes as the thiosteranes 5‐α‐cholestane‐3‐β‐thiol, 24‐methyl‐5‐α‐cholestane‐3‐β‐thiol, and 24‐ethyl‐5‐α‐cholestane‐3‐β‐thiol. These sulphur compounds are formed from Δ‐2 sterenes and probably originate from plankton. The presence of these thiols in coastal sediments varies considerably with the location of the sampling points, indicating that they are potential markers for environmental pollution. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Micro Sep 13: 90–95, 2001
Evaluation of temperature programming for gradient elution in packed capillary liquid chromatography coupled to electrochemical detection
Authors: Nordström O. , Molander P. , Greibrokk T. , Blomhoff R. , Lundanes E.
Published: August 2002

A miniaturized amperometric detector compatible with temperature‐programmed packed capillary liquid chromatography has been constructed and evaluated. Temperature programming could successfully be used as a tool for retention control, providing gradient action that did not influence the detector performance. A 7‐μm single carbon fiber was utilized as working electrode and detection was performed in a 50‐μm i.d. fused silica detection capillary which also functioned as restriction capillary. Separation of tyrosine, 3‐(3,4‐dihydroxyphenyl)alanine, 3‐chloro‐tyrosine and 3‐NO2‐tyrosine was achieved in 6 min using a temperature program from 30°C to 100°C with a ramp of 8°C/min on a 25 cm 0.32 mm i.d. column packed with 3 μm Hypersil ODS. The mobile phase consisted of 50 mM citric acid (pH 3.10)‐methanol (95+ 5, v/v), and the mass limit of detection was in the range 1–5 pg using 1.2 V vs the Ag/AgCl reference electrode. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Micro Sep 13: 179–185, 2001
Determination of the free concentration of ropivacaine in plasma by packed capillary liquid chromatography: A comparison of ultrafiltration and microdialysis as sample preparation methods
Authors: Koivisto Pernilla , Bergström Sara K. , Markides Karin E.
Published: August 2002

In this study, ultrafiltration and microdialysis have been compared as sample preparation methods to separate the free fraction of ropivacaine from the protein bound in 150 μL plasma. A liquid chromatographic system with packed capillary columns (0.2 mm internal diameter) was used to enhance sensitivity when analyzing the small sample volumes obtained after the ultrafiltration and the microdialysis. The microdialysis was performed with probes of our own construction, and to save analysis time, the microdialysis sampling was coupled on‐line to the liquid chromatographic system. The reduction of back pressure in the microdialysis outlet tube and in the injector was found to be essential. The free fraction obtained with each method was equivalent: both gave a free fraction of 6%. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Micro Sep 13: 197–201, 2001
Bilateral internal globus pallidus stimulation for the treatment of spasmodic torticollis
Authors: Parkin Simon , Aziz Tipu , Gregory Ralph , Bain Peter
Published: August 2002

Three patients with spasmodic torticollis (ST) obtained substantial benefit from bilateral globus pallidus internus (GPi) stimulation. Progressive improvement in ST occurred over several months but residual cervical dystonia remained. These results corroborate those obtained by Krauss et al. on three patients with ST. © 2001 Movement Disorder Society.
Involvement of the motor cortex in pseudochoreoathetosis
Authors: Timmermann Lars , Gross Joachim , Schmitz Frank , Freund Hans‐Joachim , Schnitzler Alfons
Published: August 2002

The pathophysiological background of involuntary movements in pseudochoreoathetosis is unclear. We therefore recorded in four patients with pseudochoreoathetosis and in six age‐matched controls cortical activity with a whole‐head magnetoencephalography (MEG) system and surface EMGs from hand muscles. Subjects performed the following tasks: 1) rest, and 2) constant finger stretch during forearm elevation; controls additionally simulated pseudochoreoathetotic finger movements. During rest, the patients showed involuntary finger movements associated with excessive MEG‐EMG coherence at frequencies between 6 and 20 Hz, whereas coherence in controls simulating pseudochoreoathetotic movements did not exceed noise level (P< 0.02). During finger stretch, MEG‐EMG coherence in patients was similar to that of controls. Cortical sources of MEG‐EMG coherence in patients were localized in the contralateral motor cortex. We conclude that pseudochoreoathetosis is associated with pathologically increased corticomuscular coherence and thus differs, neurophysiologically, from voluntarily simulated pseudochoreoathetotic movements. The enhanced MEG‐EMG coherence in pseudochoreoathetosis probably reflects a pathologically strong motor cortical drive of spinal motorneurons after deafferentation. © 2001 Movement Disorder Society.
Fast orthostatic tremor in Parkinson's disease mimicking primary orthostatic tremor
Authors: Apartis E. , Tison F. , Arné P. , Jedynak C.P. , Vidailhet M.
Published: August 2002

Leg tremor during standing is a rare feature in idiopathic Parkinson's disease (PD). Tremor during standing usually has a low frequency (range, 4–6 Hz), similar to PD rest tremor frequency, and is improved by levodopa. We describe three cases of fast orthostatic tremor (FoT) of legs and trunk mimicking primary orthostatic tremor (OT) in patients treated with levodopa for PD. Asymmetrical akinetorigid syndrome was accompanied by a rest tremor in two cases. We obtained electrophysiological parameters by electromyographic (EMG) polygraphic recording after 16 hours withdrawal of antiparkinsonian treatment and at the maximal effect of levodopa in order to investigate the effect of dopaminergic stimulation upon such cases of orthostatic tremor in PD. Electrophysiological parameters of orthostatic tremor, especially frequency (range 14–18 Hz), were similar to that seen in POT. Severity of tremor was independent of seriousness and duration of PD. Levodopa had no effect either on the handicap due to OT or on the amplitude and frequency of the EMG OT activity. In contrast, mild improvement of OT was obtained with benzodiazepines in two cases and parkinsonian syndrome was levodopa‐sensitive. These findings suggest that FoT in PD would not be directly controlled by the dopaminergic system. However, increased rhythmicities in basal ganglia or in cerebello‐thalamic loops at the rapid frequencies range seen in PD could favor the emergence of a primary orthostatic tremor‐like tremor in PD patients. © 2001 Movement Disorder Society.
Stability and convergence of optimum spectral non‐linear Galerkin methods
Authors: Yinnian He , Yanren Hou , Kaitai Li
Published: August 2002

Our objective in this article is to present some numerical schemes for the approximation of the 2‐D Navier–Stokes equations with periodic boundary conditions, and to study the stability and convergence of the schemes. Spatial discretization can be performed by either the spectral Galerkin method or the optimum spectral non‐linear Galerkin method; time discretization is done by the Euler scheme and a two‐step scheme. Our results show that under the same convergence rate the optimum spectral non‐linear Galerkin method is superior to the usual Galerkin methods. Finally, numerical example is provided and supports our results. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A singularly perturbed problem of photon transport in a time‐dependent region
Authors: Riganti R. , Salvarani F.
Published: August 2002

The paper is devoted to the numerical study of a singularly perturbed transport linear integro‐differential equation, in a time‐dependent domain with slab geometry. After a brief summary on existence and uniqueness results for such a model, we test the error between the exact solution and its quasi‐static approximation, which satisfies a simpler equation. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Arrayed helical antennas (AHA) with low SAR for personal telephone handsets
Authors: Hong Soo‐Won , Park Myeong‐Seok , Oh Hak‐Tae , Park Cheon‐Seok
Published: August 2002

Arrayed helical antennas (AHA) for personal telephone handsets have been developed for both low‐SAR and omnidirectional radiation patterns, where the AHA has two helical antennas along the direction of the width on the top of personal telephones. A comparison of the SAR value between the AHA and a conventional helical antenna (CHA) demonstrates that the SAR value of the AHA is 35% less than that of the CHA. Good performance of the radiation patterns and the VSWR of the AHA are also shown by using the experimental measurements. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 31: 284–287, 2001.
BEF made of coupled microstrip‐line λ/4 resonators
Authors: Miyake H. , Awai I. , Tsuchiyama M. , Yamaguchi H. , Ishizaki T.
Published: August 2002

The present paper proposes a new design method of a miniatrized combline BEF. The degradation of the BEF characteristics due to close placement of the resonators is canceled with the aid of a capacitor between them. Simulation and experimental results based on the proposed design method are also presented. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 31: 327–329, 2001.
Analysis of three‐dimensional MMIC by spectral–pseudospectral domain technique
Authors: Chen R. S. , Wang D. X. , Yung Edward K. N. , Wu Ke
Published: August 2002

In this paper, a spectral–pseudospectral domain technique is presented for the full‐wave analysis of a three‐dimensional MMIC. This technique combines the advantages of pseudospectral method of lines with those of spectral‐domain analysis. In conjunction with the cavity‐resonance technique, it enables one to efficiently extract the s‐parameters of three‐dimensional planar circuits. To demonstrate the generality and validity of the proposed method, numerical analyses are performed for several structures such as microstrip resonators, planar transmission‐line steps, and a parallel coupled‐line filter. The convergence behaviors are provided for line discretization based on the pseudospectral strategy and finite difference (FD), respectively. The calculated results are compared with those published in previous literature. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 31: 340–345, 2001.