bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
HeT-A
elements in
Drosophila virilis
: Retrotransposon telomeres are conserved across the
Drosophila
genus
Authors: Casacuberta Elena , Pardue Mary-Lou
Published: November 2003

Drosophila melanogaster
telomeres are composed of two retrotransposons,
HeT-A
and
TART
.
Drosophila virilis
has recently been shown to have telomere-specific
TART
elements with many of the characteristics of their
D. melanogaster
homologues. We now report identification of the second telomere-specific retrotransposon,
HeT-A
, from
D. virilis
. These results show that
HeT-A
and
TART
have been maintaining telomeres in
Drosophila
for more than the 60 million years that separate
D. melanogaster
and
D. virilis
. All
Drosophila
species and stocks studied have both of these telomeric elements, suggesting that the elements collaborate, an assumption supported by evidence from
D. melanogaster
that their Gag proteins interact. Although the
HeT-A
sequence evolves at a high rate, the element retains the unusual structural features that characterize all
HeT-A
homologues. These features may be involved in the role of
HeT-A
at the telomere. The Gag protein from

HeT-A
vir

is as much like
TART
Gag from other species as it is like
HeT-A
Gag, suggesting that these Gags are evolving under similar constraints, probably to maintain appropriate interactions with host telomeres and possibly to allow collaborative interactions like those seen in
D. melanogaster
. In addition, we have identified a chimeric element,

U
vir

, carrying a
pol
coding sequence only distantly related to sequences thus far found in any telomere arrays.
Manduca sexta
recognition and resistance among allopolyploid
Nicotiana
host plants
Authors: Lou Yonggen , Baldwin Ian T.
Published: November 2003

Allopolyploid speciation occurs instantly when the genomes of different species combine to produce self-fertile offspring and has played a central role in the evolution of higher plants, but its consequences for adaptive responses are unknown. We compare herbivore-recognition and -resistance responses of the diploid species and putative ancestral parent
Nicotiana attenuata
with those of the two derived allopolyploid species
Nicotiana clevelandii
and
Nicotiana bigelovii. Manduca sexta
larvae attack all three species, and in
N. attenuata
attack is recognized when larval oral secretions are introduced to wounds during feeding, resulting in a jasmonate burst, a systemic amplification of trypsin inhibitor accumulation, and a release of volatile organic compounds, which function as a coordinated defense response that slows caterpillar growth and increases the probability of their being attacked. Most aspects of this recognition response are retained with modifications in one allotetraploid (
N. bigelovii
) but lost in the other (
N. clevelandii
). Differences between diploid and tetraploid species were apparent in delays (maximum 1 and 0.5 h, respectively) in the jasmonate burst, the elicitation of trypsin inhibitors and release of volatile organic compounds, and the constitutive levels of nicotine, trypsin inhibitors, diterpene glycosides, rutin, and caffeoylputrescine in the leaves. Resistance to
M. sexta
larvae attack was most strongly associated with diterpene glycosides, which were higher in the diploid than in the two allotetraploid species. Because
M. sexta
elicitors differentially regulate a large proportion of the
N. attenuata
transcriptome, we propose that these species are suited for the study of the evolution of adaptive responses requiring trans-activation mechanisms.
Platelet and osteoclast β
3
integrins are critical for bone metastasis
Authors: Bakewell Suzanne J. , Nestor Patrick , Prasad Srinivasa , Tomasson Michael H. , Dowland Nikki , Mehrotra Mukund , Scarborough Robert , Kanter James , Abe Keith , Phillips David , Weilbaecher Katherine N.
Published: November 2003

Mice with a targeted deletion of β
3
integrin were used to examine the process by which tumor cells metastasize and destroy bone. Injection of B16 melanoma cells into the left cardiac ventricle resulted in osteolytic bone metastasis in 74% of β
3
+/+
mice by 14 days. In contrast, only 4% of β
3
–/–
mice developed bone lesions. Direct intratibial inoculation of tumor resulted in marrow replacement by tumor in β
3
–/–
mice, but no associated trabecular bone resorption as seen inβ
3
+/+
mice. Bone marrow transplantation studies showed that susceptibility to bone metastasis was conferred by a bone marrow-derived cell. To dissect the roles of osteoclast and platelet β
3
integrins in this model of bone metastasis, osteoclast-defective
src
–/–
mice were used. Src-null mice were protected from tumor-associated bone destruction but were not protected from tumor cell metastasis to bone. In contrast, a highly specific platelet aggregation inhibitor of activated α
IIb
β
3
prevented B16 metastases. These data demonstrate a critical role for platelet α
IIb
β
3
in tumor entry into bone and suggest a mechanism by which antiplatelet therapy may be beneficial in preventing the metastasis of solid tumors.
Microfabricated needles for transdermal delivery of macromolecules and nanoparticles: Fabrication methods and transport studies
Authors: McAllister Devin V. , Wang Ping M. , Davis Shawn P. , Park Jung-Hwan , Canatella Paul J. , Allen Mark G. , Prausnitz Mark R.
Published: November 2003

Arrays of micrometer-scale needles could be used to deliver drugs, proteins, and particles across skin in a minimally invasive manner. We therefore developed microfabrication techniques for silicon, metal, and biodegradable polymer microneedle arrays having solid and hollow bores with tapered and beveled tips and feature sizes from 1 to 1,000 μm. When solid microneedles were used, skin permeability was increased
in vitro
by orders of magnitude for macromolecules and particles up to 50 nm in radius. Intracellular delivery of molecules into viable cells was also achieved with high efficiency. Hollow microneedles permitted flow of microliter quantities into skin
in vivo
, including microinjection of insulin to reduce blood glucose levels in diabetic rats.
Redesigning the monovalent cation specificity of an enzyme
Authors: Prasad Swati , Wright Kelly J. , Banerjee Roy Dolly , Bush Leslie A. , Cantwell Angelene M. , Di Cera Enrico
Published: November 2003

Monovalent-cation-activated enzymes are abundantly represented in plants and in the animal world. Most of these enzymes are specifically activated by K
+
, whereas a few of them show preferential activation by Na
+
. The monovalent cation specificity of these enzymes remains elusive in molecular terms and has not been reengineered by site-directed mutagenesis. Here we demonstrate that thrombin, a Na
+
-activated allosteric enzyme involved in vertebrate blood clotting, can be converted into a K
+
-specific enzyme by redesigning a loop that shapes the entrance to the cation-binding site. The conversion, however, does not result into a K
+
-activated enzyme.
Conversion of the allosteric transition of GroEL from concerted to sequential by the single mutation Asp-155 → Ala
Authors: Danziger Oded , Rivenzon-Segal Dalia , Wolf Sharon G. , Horovitz Amnon
Published: November 2003

The reaction cycle of the double-ring chaperonin GroEL is driven by ATP binding that takes place with positive cooperativity within each seven-membered ring and negative cooperativity between rings. The positive cooperativity within rings is due to ATP binding-induced conformational changes that are fully concerted. Herein, it is shown that the mutation Asp-155 → Ala leads to an ATP-induced break in intra-ring and inter-ring symmetry. Electron microscopy analysis of single-ring GroEL particles containing the Asp-155 → Ala mutation shows that the break in intra-ring symmetry is due to stabilization of allosteric intermediates such as one in which three subunits have switched their conformation while the other four have not. Our results show that eliminating an intra-subunit interaction between Asp-155 and Arg-395 results in conversion of the allosteric switch of GroEL from concerted to sequential, thus demonstrating that its allosteric behavior arises from coupled tertiary conformational changes.
Exploring Flory's isolated-pair hypothesis: Statistical mechanics of helix–coil transitions in polyalanine and the C-peptide from RNase A
Authors: Ohkubo Y. Zenmei , Brooks Charles L.
Published: November 2003

To evaluate Flory's isolated-pair hypothesis in the context of helical peptides, we explore equilibrium conformations of α-helix-forming polypeptides as a function of temperature by means of replica exchange molecular dynamics in conjunction with the CHARMM/GB implicit solvent force field and the weighted histogram analysis method. From these simulations, Zimm–Bragg parameters,
s
and σ, of Ac-Ala

n

-NMe are computed as a function of temperature. The values obtained for
s
(
T
) and σ(
T
) remain unchanged along the length of the polypeptide except for very short chains and yield results consistent with measurements based on short helix-forming peptides but suggest larger
s
values than anticipated from polymer-based measurements. From direct estimates of the density of states for Ac-Ala

n

-NMe (
n
= 3–20) and peptide constructs based on the C peptide from RNase A, the conformational entropy is calculated versus temperature. The calculated
S
(
T
) shows a clear proportionality to the chain length over a wide range of temperature. This is observed in polypeptides with both significantly branched and simple methyl (alanine) side chains. These results provide evidence for the validity of Flory's isolated pair hypothesis, at least in the context of helical peptides and helix-to-coil transitions in these peptides.
Pheromone-mediated gene expression in the honey bee brain
Authors: Grozinger Christina M. , Sharabash Noura M. , Whitfield Charles W. , Robinson Gene E.
Published: November 2003

We tested the hypothesis that queen mandibular pheromone (QMP) causes changes in gene expression in the brain of the adult worker honey bee, and that these changes can be correlated to the downstream behavioral responses induced by QMP. In support of the first hypothesis, cage experiments revealed that QMP transiently regulated expression of several hundred genes and chronically regulated the expression of 19 genes. Several of these genes were also affected by QMP in experiments with bee colonies in the field, demonstrating robust gene regulation by pheromone. To evaluate the second hypothesis, we focused on one function of QMP: delaying the transition from working in the hive (e.g., brood care, or “nursing”) to foraging. We compared the list of QMP-regulated genes with the lists of genes differentially regulated in nurse and forager brains generated in a separate study. QMP consistently activated “nursing genes” and repressed “foraging genes,” suggesting that QMP may delay behavioral maturation by regulating genes in the brain that produce these behavioral states. We also report here on an ortholog of the
Drosophila
transcription factor
kruppel homolog 1
that was strongly regulated by QMP, especially in the mushroom bodies of the bee brain. These results demonstrate chronic gene regulation by a primer pheromone and illustrate the potential of genomics to trace the actions of a pheromone from perception to action, and thereby provide insights into how pheromones regulate social life.
A dinucleotide motif in oligonucleotides shows potent immunomodulatory activity and overrides species-specific recognition observed with CpG motif
Authors: Kandimalla Ekambar R. , Bhagat Lakshmi , Zhu Fu-Gang , Yu Dong , Cong Yan-Ping , Wang Daqing , Tang Jimmy X. , Tang Jin-Yan , Knetter Cathrine F. , Lien Egil , Agrawal Sudhir
Published: November 2003

Bacterial and synthetic DNAs containing CpG dinucleotides in specific sequence contexts activate the vertebrate immune system through Toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9). In the present study, we used a synthetic nucleoside with a bicyclic heterobase [1-(2′-deoxy-β-d-ribofuranosyl)-2-oxo-7-deaza-8-methyl-purine; R] to replace the C in CpG, resulting in an RpG dinucleotide. The RpG dinucleotide was incorporated in mouse- and human-specific motifs in oligodeoxynucleotides (oligos) and 3′-3-linked oligos, referred to as immunomers. Oligos containing the RpG motif induced cytokine secretion in mouse spleen-cell cultures. Immunomers containing RpG dinucleotides showed activity in transfected-HEK293 cells stably expressing mouse TLR9, suggesting direct involvement of TLR9 in the recognition of RpG motif. In J774 macrophages, RpG motifs activated NF-κB and mitogen-activated protein kinase pathways. Immunomers containing the RpG dinucleotide induced high levels of IL-12 and IFN-γ, but lower IL-6 in time- and concentration-dependent fashion in mouse spleen-cell cultures costimulated with IL-2. Importantly, immunomers containing GTRGTT and GARGTT motifs were recognized to a similar extent by both mouse and human immune systems. Additionally, both mouse- and human-specific RpG immunomers potently stimulated proliferation of peripheral blood mononuclear cells obtained from diverse vertebrate species, including monkey, pig, horse, sheep, goat, rat, and chicken. An immunomer containing GTRGTT motif prevented conalbumin-induced and ragweed allergen-induced allergic inflammation in mice. We show that a synthetic bicyclic nucleotide is recognized in the C position of a CpG dinucleotide by immune cells from diverse vertebrate species without bias for flanking sequences, suggesting a divergent nucleotide motif recognition pattern of TLR9.
Distinct pathways involving the FK506-binding proteins 12 and 12.6 underlie IL-2-versus IL-15-mediated proliferation of T cells
Authors: Dubois Sigrid , Shou Weinian , Haneline Laura S. , Fleischer Sidney , Waldmann Thomas A. , Müller Jürgen R.
Published: November 2003

The molecular basis for the different roles of IL-2 and IL-15 in lymphocyte function has been poorly defined. Searching for differences that underlie the distinct T cell responses to the two cytokines, we observed a marked susceptibility of the IL-15-induced but not of the IL-2-induced proliferation to rapamycin despite a decrease of p70S6 kinase (p70S6K) activation by the drug in response to both cytokines. Activated splenic T lymphocytes deficient in the FK506-binding protein (FKBP) 12, a target of rapamycin activity, had reduced proliferation in response to IL-15 but not to IL-2. This decreased proliferation was accompanied by reduced activation of p70S6Kand of the extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERK) after IL-15 treatment. In contrast toFKBP12–/–cells, splenicFKBP12.6–/–T cells exhibited a decreased proliferative response to IL-2 in the presence of rapamycin without affecting p70S6Kor ERK activation. Thus, IL-15 induces T cell proliferation mainly via FKBP12-mediated p70S6Kactivation. In contrast, IL-2 signaling involves multiple pathways that include at least one additional pathway that depends on FKBP12.6.
Rates of species loss from Amazonian forest fragments
Authors: Ferraz Gonçalo , Russell Gareth J. , Stouffer Philip C. , Bierregaard Richard O. , Pimm Stuart L. , Lovejoy Thomas E.
Published: November 2003

In the face of worldwide habitat fragmentation, managers need to devise a time frame for action. We ask how fast do understory bird species disappear from experimentally isolated plots in the Biological Dynamics of Forest Fragments Project, central Amazon, Brazil. Our data consist of mist-net records obtained over a period of 13 years in 11 sites of 1, 10, and 100 hectares. The numbers of captures per species per unit time, analyzed under different simplifying assumptions, reveal a set of species-loss curves. From those declining numbers, we derive a scaling rule for the time it takes to lose half the species in a fragment as a function of its area. A 10-fold decrease in the rate of species loss requires a 1,000-fold increase in area. Fragments of 100 hectares lose one half of their species in <15 years, too short a time for implementing conservation measures.
Trimeric structure for an essential protein in L1 retrotransposition
Authors: Martin Sandra L. , Branciforte Dan , Keller David , Bain David L.
Published: November 2003

Two proteins are encoded by the mammalian retrotransposon long interspersed nuclear element 1 (LINE-1 or L1); both are essential for retrotransposition. The function of the protein encoded by the 5′-most ORF, ORF1p, is incompletely understood, although the ORF1p from mouse L1 is known to bind single-stranded nucleic acids and function as a nucleic acid chaperone. ORF1p self-associates by means of a long coiled-coil domain in the N-terminal region of the protein, and the basic, C-terminal region (C-1/3 domain) contains the nucleic acid binding activity. The full-length and C-1/3 domains of ORF1p were purified to near homogeneity then analyzed by gel filtration chromatography and analytical ultracentrifugation. Both proteins were structurally homogeneous and asymmetric in solution, with the full-length version forming a stable trimer and the C-1/3 domain remaining a monomer. Examination of the full-length protein by atomic force microscopy revealed an asymmetric dumbbell shape, congruent with the chromatography and ultracentrifugation results. These structural features are compatible with the nucleic acid binding and chaperone activities of L1 ORF1p and offer further insight into the functions of this unique protein during LINE-1 retrotransposition.
The dual nature of human extracellular superoxide dismutase: One sequence and two structures
Authors: Petersen Steen V. , Oury Tim D. , Valnickova Zuzana , Thøgersen Ida B. , Højrup Peter , Crapo James D. , Enghild Jan J.
Published: November 2003

Human extracellular superoxide dismutase (EC-SOD; EC 1.15.1.1) is a scavenger of superoxide anions in the extracellular space. The amino acid sequence is homologous to the intracellular counterpart, Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase (Cu/Zn-SOD), apart from N- and C-terminal extensions. Cu/Zn-SOD is a homodimer containing four cysteine residues within each subunit, and EC-SOD is a tetramer composed of two disulfide-bonded dimers in which each subunit contains six cysteines. The amino acid sequences of all EC-SOD subunits are identical. It is known that Cys-219 is involved in an interchain disulfide. To account for the remaining five cysteine residues we purified human EC-SOD and determined the disulfide bridge pattern. The results show that human EC-SOD exists in two forms, each with a unique disulfide bridge pattern. One form (active EC-SOD) is enzymatically active and contains a disulfide bridge pattern similar to Cu/Zn-SOD. The other form (inactive EC-SOD) has a different disulfide bridge pattern and is enzymatically inactive. The EC-SOD polypeptide chain apparently folds in two different ways, most likely resulting in different three-dimensional structures. Our study shows that one gene may produce proteins with different disulfide bridge arrangements and, thus, by definition, different primary structures. This observation adds another dimension to the functional annotation of the proteome.
Rab27b is associated with fusiform vesicles and may be involved in targeting uroplakins to urothelial apical membranes
Authors: Chen Yanru , Guo Xuemei , Deng Fang-Ming , Liang Feng-Xia , Sun Wenyu , Ren Mindong , Izumi Tetsuro , Sabatini David D. , Sun Tung-Tien , Kreibich Gert
Published: November 2003

The terminally differentiated umbrella cells of bladder epithelium contain unique cytoplasmic organelles, the fusiform vesicles, which deliver preassembled crystalline arrays of uroplakin proteins to the apical cell surface of urothelial umbrella cells. We have investigated the possible role of Rab proteins in this delivery process, and found Rab27b to be expressed at an extraordinary high level (0.1% of total protein) in urothelium, whereas Rab27b levels were greatly reduced (to <5% of normal urothelium) in cultured urothelial cells, which synthesized only small amounts of uroplakins and failed to form fusiform vesicles. Immuno-electron microscopy showed that Rab27b was associated with the cytoplasmic face of the fusiform vesicles, but not with that of the apical plasma membrane. The association of Rab27b with fusiform vesicles and its differentiation-dependent expression suggest that this Rab protein plays a role in regulating the delivery of fusiform vesicles to the apical plasma membrane of umbrella cells.
Host-specific Wolbachia strains in widespread populations of Phlebotomus perniciosus and P. papatasi (Diptera: Psychodidae), and prospects for driving genes into these vectors of Leishmania
Authors: Benlarbi M. , Ready P.D.
Published: November 2003

A single strain of Wolbachia (α-proteobacteria, Rickettsiales) was found in widespread geographical populations of each of two Phlebotomus species, within which there was no indication of ‘infectious speciation’. The two strains were identified by sequencing a fragment of wsp (a major surface protein gene), amplified by polymerase chain reaction from DNA extracted from the body parts of individual sandflies. Infection rates were high in the males and females of both sandflies, but they were lower for the B-group wPrn strain of Wolbachia in Phlebotomus perniciosus Newstead (60.3% overall) than for the A-group wPap strain in P. papatasi (Scopoli) (81.7%). Infections were frequent in the thorax, where Leishmania develops infective forms, as well as in the abdomen, where Wolbachia must infect the reproductive tissues to ensure its vertical transmission. These findings were related to knowledge of the population biology of Wolbachia in other insects, leading to the conclusion that this endosymbiont could be useful for driving transgenes through wild populations of both sandflies. This will require characterizing the cytoplasmic incompatibility phenotypes of Wolbachia–sandfly combinations, as well as estimating for them the incidence of paternal transmission and the fidelity of maternal transmission. Paternal transmission is one explanation for finding a single Wolbachia strain associated with all mitochondrial haplotypes and lineages of each sandfly species. However, this distribution pattern could also result from multiple horizontal transmissions or the failure of wsp to provide strain markers.
Resource use of insect seed predators during general flowering and seeding events in a Bornean dipterocarp rain forest
Authors: Nakagawa M. , Itioka T. , Momose K. , Yumoto T. , Komai F. , Morimoto K. , Jordal B.H. , Kato M. , Kaliang H. , Hamid A.A. , Inoue T. , Nakashizuka T.
Published: November 2003

Insect seed predators of 24 dipterocarp species (including the genera of Dipterocarpus, Dryobalanops and Shorea) and five species belonging to the Moraceae, Myrtaceae, Celastraceae and Sapotaceae were investigated. In a tropical lowland dipterocarp forest in Sarawak, Malaysia, these trees produced seeds irregularly but intensely during general flowering and seeding events in 1996 and/or 1998. Dipterocarp seeds were preyed on by 51 insect species (11 families), which were roughly classified into three taxonomic groups: smaller moths (Tortricidae, Pyralidae, Crambidae, Immidae, Sesiidae and Cosmopterigidae), scolytids (Scolytidae) and weevils (Curculionidae, Apionidae, Anthribidae, and Attelabidae). Although the host-specificity of invertebrate seed predators has been assumed to be high in tropical forests, it was found that the diet ranges of some insect predators were relatively wide and overlapped one another. Most seed predators that were collected in both study years changed their diets between general flowering and seeding events. The results of cluster analyses, based on the number of adults of each predator species that emerged from 100 seeds of each tree species, suggested that the dominant species was not consistent, alternating between the two years.
Genetic variation of Marchalina hellenica (Hemiptera: Margarodidae) sampled from different hosts and localities in Greece
Authors: Margaritopoulos J.T. , Bacandritsos N. , Pekas A.N. , Stamatis C. , Mamuris Z. , Tsitsipis J.A.
Published: November 2003

Random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) analysis was applied to 120 individuals of Marchalina hellenica (Gennadius) representing six populations collected in northern, central and southern mainland Greece. One population was sampled on one species of fir tree and the others on two species of pine trees. Four random decamer primers were used to evaluate genetic variation among the populations examined. The results revealed intra- and interpopulation polymorphism both related to host type and region of origin. Phylogenetic analysis based on genetic distances estimated by the RAPD frequencies revealed an important genetic differentiation in samples collected on fir trees in southern Greece and to a lesser extent in samples from pine trees in central and northern Greece. Furthermore, considerable subdivision and restricted gene flow among the populations examined were observed. The results are discussed in relation to the biology and geographical distribution of M. hellenica in Greece.
Onset of germinability, desiccation tolerance and hardseededness in developing seeds of Peltophorum pterocarpum (DC) K. Heyne (Caesalpinioideae)
Authors: Mai-Hong T. , Hong T.D. , Hien N.T. , Ellis R.H.
Published: November 2003

In the hot and dry conditions in which seeds of the tree legume Peltophorum pterocarpum develop and mature in Vietnam, seed moisture content declined rapidly on the mother plant from 87% at 42 d after flowering (DAF) to 15% at 70 DAF. Dry weight of the pods attained a maximum value at about 42 DAF, but seed mass maturity (i.e. the end of the seed-filling phase) occurred at about 62 DAF, at which time seed moisture content was about 45–48%. The onset of the ability of freshly collected seeds to germinate (in 63-d tests at 28–34°C) occurred at 42 DAF, i.e. about 20 d before mass maturity. Full germination (98%) was attained at 70 DAF, i.e. at about 8 d after mass maturity. Thereafter, germination of fresh seeds declined, due to the imposition of a hard seed coat. Tolerance of desiccation to 10% moisture content was first detected at 56 DAF and was complete within the seed population by 84 DAF, i.e. about 22 d after mass maturity. Hardseededness began to be induced when seeds were dried to about 15% moisture content and below, with a negative logarithmic relation between hardseededness and moisture content below this value.
Another 'Guggenheim Effect'? The Generation of a Potentially Gentrifiable Neighbourhood in Bilbao
Authors: Vicario Lorenzo , Martinez Monje P. Manuel
Published: November 2003

This paper examines the relation between urban regeneration policies designed to restructure urban cores and the gentrification of deprived inner-city neighbourhoods via the example of Bilbao. The paper explores the socio-spatial consequences of the regeneration strategies undertaken during the 1990s and examines how, once the initial projects were well under way, the City Council identified new spaces for furthering the regeneration process. These include Bilbao La Vieja, the most deprived housing neighbourhood in the conurbation but strategically located next to the city centre. The paper discusses the possible consequences of this designation for the future of the neighbourhood and suggests that the direct intervention of the local government would appear to be contributing decisively to making Bilbao La Vieja an obvious candidate for gentrification.
Revisiting the Diversity of Gentrification: Neighbourhood Renewal Processes in Brussels and Montreal
Authors: Van Criekingen Mathieu , Decroly Jean-Michel
Published: November 2003

This article provides a comparative analysis of neighbourhood renewal processes in Brussels and Montreal based on a typology of such processes wherein gentrification is precisely delimited. In this way, it seeks to break with the extensive use of a chaotic conception of gentrification referring to the classic stage model when dealing with the geographical diversity of neighbourhood renewal, within or between cities. In both Brussels and Montreal, the gentrification concept only adequatly describes the upward movement of very restricted parts of the inner city, while neighbourhood renewal in general more typically comprises marginal gentrification, upgrading and incumbent upgrading. Evidence drawn from the case studies suggests that each of these processes is relevant on its own-i.e. linked to a particular set of causal factors-rather than composing basically transitional states within a step-by-step progression towards a common gentrified fate. Empirical results achieved in Brussels and Montreal suggest that a typology such as the one implemented in this article could be used further in wider research aimed at building a geography of neighbourhood renewal throughout Western cities.
Gender differences in and risk factors for depression in adolescence: A 4-year longitudinal study
Authors: Galambos Nancy L. , Leadbeater Bonnie J. , Barker Erin T.
Published: November 2003

The current study used longitudinal data (N 1/4 1322; 648 males, 674 females) from adolescents ages 12 to 19 years (in 1994) to investigate gender differences in and risk factors for depressive symptoms and major depressive episodes (MDEs). The sample had participated in three waves of Canada’s National Population Health Survey (1994, 1996, and 1998). Results showed that although there was not a statistically significant increase in depressive symptoms in early adolescence, there was a robust gender difference in the levels of depressive symptoms and the prevalence of MDE, with girls more affected than boys. Over time, decreases in social support and increases in smoking were both linked to increases in depressive symptoms. Moreover, youth who smoked and who were free from major depression in 1994 were 1.4 times more likely to report a MDE in 1996 or 1998. To be effective, prevention and treatment programmes for depression may also need to address risks such as poor social support and smoking, as these risk factors may serve to maintain depressive symptoms over time.
Perspectives on self and other in children’s representations of sibling conflict
Authors: Ross Hildy S. , Siddiqui Afshan , Ram Avigail , Ward Leanne
Published: November 2003

Seventy-six siblings (3–9 years) were individually interviewed concerning their recent conflicts. Analyses compared goals, requests, and voluntary actions attributed to self and other. Children were adept at describing both own and others’ goals, requests, and actions, and these formed coherent hierarchies in which overarching explicit goals motivated actions and requests attributed to each protagonist. Children also recognised the basic opposition between antagonists’ goals. A majority of explicitly stated goals matched those attributed by both narrators to the same sibling, an agreement rate exceeding that found for requests or actions. Older siblings also focused more on goals of others; their accounts contained more spontaneous explicit goals of others and more complex goal hierarchies for others in comparison both to their reports for self and to the reports of their younger counterparts. The discussion emphasises the development and importance of understanding others’ perspectives on interpersonal conflict.
Are Spatially Focused Initiatives in Current Economic Inclusion Policies Well Founded?
Authors: Adams John , Greig Malcolm , McQuaid Ronald W.
Published: November 2003

This study examines the appropriateness of the New Deal in targeting specific groups of unemployed job-seekers. This was achieved using a survey of unemployed job-seekers carried out prior to the implementation of the New Deal framework in April 1998. A sample of 169 unemployed job-seekers in two Travel to Work Areas in central Scotland is divided into those who were successful and those who were un successful in finding employment an d each group is analysed in terms of a set of labour market related attributes. The study generates a 'typical' profile for those who were successful in job search and a 'typical' profile for those who were less successful. These are compared and contrasted with the New Deal target groups. The findings support most of the target grouping basis of the policy but not all and we conclude that the generic aim of the New Deal, to reduce social exclusion , is un likely to be achieved as effectively if spatial priorities, focused on the most deprived areas, are allowed to supersede the needs of the individual job-seeker.
The Competitiveness of Former Coalfields: Manufacturing Managers' Perceptions of Competitiveness Strengths and Weaknesses in South Yorkshire
Authors: Bowes Nick J.
Published: November 2003

The last decade has seen a wide recognition of the chronic economic adjustment problems of the former coalfields of the UK. Arguably, the finest example of such an ex-mining area has been South Yorkshire. Common perceptions are of old mining communities that are lacking the key requisite characteristics to be sufficiently able to generate new and alternative forms of employment. That is, ex-coalfields are widely seen as possessing a poor set of the determining factors of economic competitiveness. This paper uses a study of manufacturing managers' perceptions of the determinants of competitiveness in the former mining area of South Yorkshire in order to shed new light on an established debate. It also takes an established methodology for assessing regional competitiveness and develops it into a more focused and valuable tool in feeding into the policy-making agenda. On the basis of the findings, some of the current policies aimed at the revitalisation of the economy of South Yorkshire's former coalfield are discussed, and a number of additions are suggested.
IR Laser‐Induced Changes to L‐adrenaline‐D‐hydrogentartrate Incorporated in KBr Matrices
Authors: Jovanovic Tatijana S. , Bogavac Milica R. , Radak Bojan B. , Trtica Milan S.
Published: November 2003

Changes in the pharmaceutical L‐adrenaline‐D‐hydrogentartrate, incorporated in KBr
matrices, induced by a pulsed carbon‐dioxide Transversely Excited Atmospheric
(TEA) laser, were observed. Modifications of the sample were monitored via infrared
spectra. Special attention was devoted to the dependence of the sample changes on the
laser energy density used. The irradiation of the pharmaceutical has been performed
with two laser lines at wavelengths of about 10.6 µm. The laser lines coincide well
with the absorption band of the pharmaceutical, which is assigned to the ring
vibrations/out-of-plane OH deformation vibrations, within the carboxyl (COOH)
group of L‐adrenaline‐D‐hydrogentartrate. Laser energy densities of 1.20 and
1.70 J/cm2 modified the pharmaceutical/compound. It was found that this
modification is in essence a thermal effect. The level of change showed a dependence
on the laser energy density, number of accumulated laser pulses and temporal shape
of the pulse.
‘Zero tolerance’ and drug education in Australian schools
Authors: MUNRO GEOFFREY , MIDFORD RICHARD
Published: November 2003

For a decade in Australia, drug education in schools has been shaped by the approach of harm minimization adopted by state and national governments alike. Harm minimization has been accepted broadly by drug educators, and has encouraged schools to deepen their commitment to drug education, allowed them to communicate honestly with students, and to respond to instances of drug use in a less confrontational and more caring manner. Despite those advances, the notion of ‘zero tolerance’ within schools has been promoted recently by protagonists in the formulation of drug policy and it is mentioned in the recently published national school drug education policy. This article suggests that the adoption of a zero tolerance policy will end the consensus among drug educators, reduce the efficacy of drug education, lead to more punitive treatment of youthful drug experimenters, while doing nothing to reduce drug use. It concludes the existing policy of harm minimization offers schools more scope to address drug issues in a constructive manner than does zero tolerance, which in practice may inflate the harmful effects on young people of drug use.
Implementation of the ‘Fresh Start’ smoking cessation programme to 23 antenatal clinics: a randomized controlled trial investigating two methods of dissemination
Authors: COOKE MARGARET , MATTICK RICHARD P. , WALSH RAOUL A.
Published: November 2003

The aim of the research was to investigate the effect of two methods of dissemination on the implementation of a smoking cessation programme and use of smoking cessation interventions in antenatal clinics. A repeated‐measures randomized design was used. Hospital antenatal clinics (n = 23) were randomized to simple or intensive dissemination groups. All clinics in NSW with > 500 births were asked to participate. A survey of all clinical staff (n = 323) in 23 antenatal clinics was carried out prior to programme dissemination and 18 months after dissemination (n = 283). The response rate was 63% at baseline and 64% at follow‐up. Smoking cessation intervention significantly increased after dissemination. (F (18,1) = 49.26, p < 0.001). The average number of smoking cessation interventions provided by clinics after programme dissemination increased from 4.5 to 7. 48 (mean difference 2.98, t(19) 7.08, n < 0.001, 95% CI (2.1–3.86). Type of dissemination did not influence the number of programme components used or the number of smoking cessation interventions offered. Also, the estimated proportion of clients offered intervention by clinicians did not vary due to type of dissemination. A simple mail‐out of a smoking cessation programme to antenatal clinics for use during pregnancy can increase clinician intervention for smoking. When more intensive methods of dissemination are used, the quality of the interventions implemented by clinicians improves. More research on dissemination methods are required as both methods of dissemination did not produce systematic or sustained use of the programme.
The validity of an Australian modification of the AUDIT questionnaire
Authors: DEGENHARDT LOUISA J. , CONIGRAVE KATHERINE M. , WUTZKE SONIA E. , SAUNDERS JOHN B.
Published: November 2003

The Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) has been used widely and is reported to be superior to conventional questionnaires in detection of current hazardous and harmful alcohol use. We assessed the validity of an Australian modification of the AUDIT (the AusAUDIT), which has been employed widely in Australian and New Zealand early intervention programmes. We used a cross‐sectional study of 370 subjects from the follow‐up phase of a randomized controlled trial of early intervention to reduce hazardous alcohol consumption. Scores on the AusAUDIT were compared against 12‐month ICD‐10 diagnoses of harmful alcohol use and dependence, as determined by the Composite International Diagnostic Interview, and against self‐report of alcohol consumption exceeding Australian National Health and Medical Research Council (NH&MRC) recommended limits. AusAUDIT had good internal consistency and discriminated significantly between persons meeting criteria for ICD‐10 alcohol use disorders, and drinkers who did not. At currently recommended cut‐off scores, AusAUDIT detected more than 85% of people meeting criteria for ICD‐10 alcohol use disorders, or drinking over NH&MRC recommended limits, but its specificity was limited (29% in men, and 58% in women for drinking over NH&MRC limits). No subset of questions performed as well as the full AusAUDIT in detection of drinking problems, but the alcohol consumption items provided a reasonable screen for drinking over NH&MRC limits. We conclude that AusAUDIT is effective in detecting problematic drinking, but positive cases should be confirmed by clinical assessment. The findings illustrate the need for validation of questionnaire modifications, and the difficulty in increasing test sensitivity without reducing specificity.
Childhood adversity in alcohol‐ and drug‐dependent women presenting to out‐patient treatment
Authors: BERRY RAINE , SELLMAN J. DOUGLAS
Published: November 2003

Eighty alcohol‐ and/or drug‐dependent women who were consecutive admissions to a representative out‐patient alcohol and drug service in Christchurch were interviewed with the aim of establishing the extent of exposure to childhood adversity including childhood sexual, physical and emotional abuse and parental problems. The results show that a sizeable percentage of the women came from backgrounds characterized by parental conflict and alcohol and drug problems. Within their first 15 years 51% were subjected to sexual abuse involving attempted or completed oral, anal or vaginal intercourse and 39% were exposed regularly to physical abuse perpetrated by their parents or main parental figures. Over half reported experiencing emotional abuse rated as being ‘very distressing’ and two‐thirds had been exposed to ‘very distressing’ parental problems. The main implication for clinical practice arising from the results of this study is the need for the development of a broader approach to alcohol and drug service provision. In order to achieve positive treatment outcomes, alcohol and drug services may need to routinely screen and plan treatment for childhood adversity and associated problems in all clients presenting for alcohol and drug treatment.
Myeloperoxidase and adenosine‐deaminase levels in the pleural fluid leakage induced by carrageenan in the mouse model of pleurisy
Authors: Fröde Tânia Silvia , Medeiros Y. S.
Published: November 2003

Background: Although myeloperoxidase (MPO) and adenosine‐deaminase (ADA) levels are markers of activated leukocytes, both enzymes have not been currently addressed in inflammation models.

Aims: This study evaluates whether the concentrations of these enzymes are significantly correlated with the content of leukocytes in a pleurisy model.

Methods: The pleurisy was induced by carrageenan (1%) in mice, and the parameters analyzed 4 and 48 h after.

Results: After the induction of inflammation (4 h), MPO and ADA levels peaked in parallel to neutrophils
(p < 0.01). Regarding the second phase of pleurisy (48 h), the highest concentrations of ADA were detected in parallel to the highest levels of mononuclears (p < 0.01). At this time, MPO levels and neutrophils remained elevated, although at lower levels than those found at 4 h. A significant positive correlation was found among neutrophils and MPO, and mononuclears and ADA
(p < 0.01).

Conclusions: These findings support the evidence that both enzymes are markers of the inflammatory process, and provide new tools for a better understanding of the immunoregulatory pathways that occur in inflammation.
In-vitro activation of complement system by lactic acidosis in newborn and adults
Authors: Hecke Friederike , Hoehn Thomas , Strauss Evelyn , Obladen Michael , Sonntag Josef
Published: November 2003

Introduction: Complement activation occurs secondary to a variety of external stimuli. Lactic acidosis has been previously shown to activate the complement factors C3a and C5a. In the present investigation we examined the differential effect of lactic acidosis on anaphylatoxin levels in cord and adult blood. Furthermore we aimed to determine if the entire complement cascade could be activated by lactic acidosis.

Methods: Cord and adult blood samples (n = 20 each) were collected and incubated for one hour in either untreated condition or with the addition of lactate in two concentrations (5.5 mmol/l vs 22 mmol/l). Following incubation, levels of C3a, C5a and sC5b‐9, and blood gas parameters were determined.

Results: Anaphylatoxin (C3a and C5a) and sC5b‐9 levels increased with the addition of lactate in a dosedependent manner in cord and adult blood (C3a: 1 h, 5.5 mmol/l, 22 mmol/l: 418/498/622 μg/l in cord blood; 1010/1056/1381 μg/l in adult blood, p < 0.05 similar results were found for C5a and sC5b‐9).

Conclusion: Lactic acidosis leads to an activation of the entire complement system in neonates and in adults. This activation is dose‐dependent and more pronounced in adults as compared to neonates.
Serum IL‐1β, sIL‐2R, IL‐6, IL‐8 and TNF‐α in schizophrenic patients, relation with symptomatology and responsiveness to risperidone treatment
Authors: Erbağci Ayşe Binnur , Herken Hasan , Köylüoglu Oya , Yilmaz Necat , Tarakçioglu Mehmet
Published: November 2003

Activation of the inflammatory response system and varied levels of cytokines in acute schizophrenia have been suggested by recent studies. Psychopharmacologic agents can differentially effect cytokine production, which suggests that therapeutic function of neuroleptics may involve immunomodulation.

The present study was carried out to examine: (i) serum concentrations of interleukin (IL)‐1β , soluble interleukin‐2 receptor (sIL‐2R), IL‐6, IL‐8 and tumour necrosis factor (TNF)‐ α in schizophrenic patients; (ii) their relation with psychopathological assessment; and (iii) the relation of the initial cytokine levels with responsiveness to risperidone therapy.

Thirty‐four drug‐free schizophrenic patients with acute exacerbation and 23 age‐ and gender‐matched healthy controls were recruited for this study. Psychopathological assessments at admission and throughout risperidone treatment for 60 days were recorded. Serum cytokine concentrations were determined with chemilumunescence assays.

According to our results, serum IL‐1β , sIL‐2R, IL‐6, IL‐8 and TNF‐α concentrations adjusted for age, gender, body mass index and smoking were no different in patients with schizophrenia and controls and among subtypes of schizophrenia. However, the initial TNF‐α concentrations had a significant effect on Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale and Scale Assessment of Positive Symptoms scores. The initial cytokine concentrations of the patients responsive to risperidone were not significantly different from those of non‐responsive patients.

The present study demonstrates that plasma levels of IL‐1β , sIL‐2R, IL‐6, IL‐8 and TNF‐α adjusted for confounding factors are not altered in drug‐free schizophrenic patients at acute exacerbation. We suggest that, if cytokine production is altered in schizophrenia, these alterations may not be detectable in systemic circulation. According to our results, the therapeutic effect of risperidone is not related to basal levels of the aforementioned cytokines. However, serum TNF‐α may contribute to symptomatology in schizophrenia.
Blood histamine levels (BHL) in infants and children with respiratory and non‐respiratory diseases
Authors: Ponvert C. , Galoppin L. , Paupe J. , de Blic J. , Le Bourgeois M. , Scheinmann P.
Published: November 2003

Background: Blood histamine levels are decreased after severe allergic reactions and in various chronic diseases.

Aims: To study blood histamine levels in infants and children with acute infectious and non‐infectious,
non‐allergic, disease.

Methods: Blood histamine levels were investigated by a fluorometric method in infants and children admitted to hospital with bronchiolitis, non‐wheezing bronchitis, acute infections of the urinary tract, skin and ear‐nose‐throat, gastroenteritis, or hyperthermia of unknown aetiology. Results of blood histamine levels and white blood cell counts were compared with those obtained for children recovering from benign non‐infectious, non‐allergic illnesses.

Results: As compared with control children, white blood cell numbers were significantly increased in children with acute infections of the urinary tract, skin and ear‐nose‐throat, and were significantly decreased in children with gastroenteritis. Blood histamine levels were significantly lower in children with gastroenteritis and hyperthermia than in children with other diseases and control children. It was not possible to correlate blood histamine levels and the number of blood basophils.

Conclusions: BHL are significantly decreased in infants and children with acute gastroenteritis and hyperthermia of unknown aetiology. The mechanisms responsible for the decrease in blood histamine levels in children with gastroenteritis and hyperthermia are discussed.