bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Postnatal dendritic development of Y‐like geniculocortical relay neurons
Authors: Coleman Lee‐Ann , Friedlander Michael J.
Published: October 2002

We describe the dendritic development of neurons in the dorsal lateral geniculate nucleus (LGNd) projecting to cortical area 18 in the postnatal cat. LGN neurons were identified by retrograde labeling from area 18 with fluorescent latex microspheres and injected in the fixed slice with Lucifer yellow (LY) and horseradish peroxidase (HRP) to visualize their dendritic arborizations. Both topological (measures of the patterns of dendritic branching and their territorial coverage) and metric parameters (measures of the quantitative parameters describing the size, length, extent and diameter of the dendritic arbors) were measured in three‐dimensions for 25 LGN neurons in cats between 1 and 18 postnatal weeks. In addition, dendritic growth was compared to the changing dimensions of the LGNd. At all ages, neurons projecting to area 18 have large somata and radiate dendrites. From 1 to 18 weeks neurons increase in size—both soma area and the length of all dendritic segments double during this period. Intermediate and terminal dendritic segments show comparable growth until 5 weeks. However, only terminal segments continue to grow significantly from 5 until 18 weeks. Dendrites become straighter during development, the angle between daughter branches decreases and dendritic segment diameter increases, with terminal segments showing a greater increase relative to intermediate segments. The density of dendritic appendages increases transiently at 5 weeks and a differential redistribution occurs, so that by 18 weeks dendrites further from the soma have a greater density of appendages than those near the soma. Some dendritic relationships remain invariant during development—intermediate segments are always shorter, thicker and straighter than terminal segments. During these changes however, area 18 projecting neurons maintain a constant number of primary dendrites and have, on average, a constant branching pattern. The relative volume of the LGNd occupied by an area 18 projecting neuron increases 2.4‐fold between 1 and 18 weeks as the dendrites grow with the result that the coverage of a given point of the LGNd by dendrites of area 18 projecting nearly doubles from 24 to 45 neurons per unit volume. This increased net dendritic overlap provides a substrate for enhanced numerical synaptic divergence of the Y‐cell pathway from a point source in the retina to the visual cortex.
Structural and functional magnetic resonance imaging of autism
Authors: Cody Heather , Pelphrey Kevin , Piven Joseph
Published: October 2002

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of brain structures and function is uniquely suited to characterize the range of neuroanatomical and physiological changes that characterize the autism phenotype as it develops over time. In this review, we examine the scientific literature in MRI as applied to autism and related areas, over approximately the last decade, discussing findings which have emerged, methodological stumbling blocks which have been identified, and potential future directions. Structural MRI studies have recently begun to elucidate the neurodevelopmental underpinnings and brain–behavior relationships in autism while fMRI studies, building on the wealth of data in normal individuals, are beginning to characterize the underlying neuropsychological deficits of the disorder. Together, these two methods combine to contribute to a better understanding of the neural basis and brain phenotype of this disorder.
Clinical profiles relating gender and depressive symptoms among adolescents ascertained by the Beck Depression Inventory II
Authors: Coelho R. , Martins A. , Barros H.
Published: October 2002

Purpose

Depressive disorders (DD) in adolescence are often misdiagnosed and under-recognised. A major clinical problem regards the high rate of co-morbidity with other disorders, namely substance abuse. The aim of this study was to assess the discriminative power of the Beck Depression Inventory II (BDI-II) to characterise specific social–demographic variables related to DD in adolescence.

Methods

A Portuguese version of the BDI-II and a social–demographic questionnaire were administered to 775 Portuguese adolescents (312 males, 463 females; mean age: 16.9 years); 83 adolescents performed a clinical interview following DSM-IV criteria.

Results

Mean BDI-II Portuguese version (BDI-II-P) total score was 10.31 (standard deviation: 8.4), with females reporting more depressive symptoms than males (P < 0.001). Low academic achievement, sleep disturbances, and alcohol consumption were consistently associated with depressive symptoms for both genders. Higher tobacco consumption was significantly associated with depressive symptoms in females. Familial factors did not appear to be associated with depressive symptoms in males. However, a higher frequency of siblings, having separated parents as well as a more extreme perception of the mother's educational style were consistently associated with depressive symptoms in females.

Conclusion

The BDI-II-P showed discriminative power to characterise social–demographic variables related to DD especially in adolescent females.
A guide to building a university trading room
Authors: Alexander Jr. John C. , Heck Charles C. , McElreath Robert B.
Published: October 2002

Many business schools are currently considering investing in trading rooms to help educate their students relative to capital markets. This article summarizes the bene®ts, costs, and alternatives associated with building a financial information or trading room. The benefits include; quick and easy access to a large amount of financial data, increased exposure to real-time financial market activity, and reputational capital for the school. We discuss the current databases available, and introduce software and hardware solutions. We also provide tips on room design, how to raise money, and potential uses of the room. Copyright 2001 Elsevier Science Inc. All rights reserved.
An Analysis of Personal Financial Literacy Among College Students
Authors: Chen Haiyang , Volpe Ronald P.
Published: October 2002

This study surveys 924 college students to examine their personalfinancial literacy; the relationship between the literacy and students' characteristics; and impact of the literacy on students' opinions and decisions. Results show that participants answer about 53% of questions correctly. Non-business majors, women, students in the lower class ranks, under age 30, and with little work experience have lower levels of knowledge. Less knowledgeable students tend to hoM wrong opinions and make incorrect deci- sions. It is concluded that college students are not knowledgeable about personal finance. The low level of knowledge will limit their ability to make informed decisions.
Interleukin 21 Is a T Helper (Th) Cell 2 Cytokine that Specifically Inhibits the Differentiation of Naive Th Cells into Interferon γ–producing Th1 Cells
Authors: Wurster Andrea L. , Rodgers Vikki L. , Satoskar Abhay R. , Whitters Matthew J. , Young Deborah A. , Collins Mary , Grusby Michael J.
Published: October 2002

The cytokine potential of developing T helper (Th) cells is directly shaped both positively and negatively by the cytokines expressed by the effector Th cell subsets. Here we find that the recently identified cytokine, interleukin (IL)-21, is preferentially expressed by Th2 cells when compared with Th1 cells generated in vitro and in vivo. Exposure of naive Th precursors to IL-21 inhibits interferon (IFN)-γ production from developing Th1 cells. The repression of IFN-γ production is specific in that the expression of other Th1 and Th2 cytokines is unaffected. IL-21 decreases the IL-12 responsiveness of developing Th cells by specifically reducing both signal transducer and activator of transcription 4 protein and mRNA expression. These results suggest that Th2 cell-derived IL-21 regulates the development of IFN-γ–producing Th1 cells which could serve to amplify a Th2 response.
Tacit knowledge management: the role of artifacts
Authors: Kreiner Kristian
Published: October 2002

This article discusses both the management of tacit knowledge and the tacit approach to knowledge management. Tacit knowledge must be made manageable by being explicated and separated from the knowledge workers, so that the knowledge resources do not go home at night. However, the less knowledge leaving in the evening, the less knowledge will return the following morning. Making the organization as independent as possible of the tacit knowledge of its knowledge workers is an ironic program for knowledge management, since it advocates a reduction of the total resource pool for the sake of managerial control. The article searches for alternatives to knowledge management exercised from a position of control and ownership. A case study of product development is analyzed. This specialized context focuses attention on knowledge mobilization rather than knowledge control and sharing. The artifact provides sufficient pressure for order and coordination to emerge spontaneously. Knowledge management can in such circumstances become tacit without losing its value.
EXCEPTIONAL STRING: INSTANTON EXPANSIONS AND SEIBERG–WITTEN CURVE
Authors: MOHRI KENJI
Published: October 2002

We investigate instanton expansions of partition functions of several toric E-string models using local mirror symmetry and elliptic modular forms. We also develop a method to determine the Seiberg–Witten curve of E-string with the help of elliptic functions.
Estrogen Modulation of Endothelial Nitric Oxide Synthase
Authors: Chambliss Ken L. , Shaul Philip W.
Published: October 2002

Over the past decade, clinical and basic research has demonstrated that estrogen has a dramatic impact on the response to vascular injury and the development of atherosclerosis. Further work has indicated that this is at least partially mediated by an enhancement in nitric oxide (NO) production by the endothelial isoform of NO synthase (eNOS) due to increases in both eNOS expression and level of activation. The effects on eNOS abundance are primarily mediated at the level of gene transcription, and they are dependent on estrogen receptors (ERs), which classically serve as transcription factors, but they are independent of estrogen response element action. Estrogen also has potent nongenomic effects on eNOS activity mediated by a subpopulation of ERα localized to caveolae in endothelial cells, where they are coupled to eNOS in a functional signaling module. These observations, which emphasize dependence on cell surface-associated receptors, provide evidence for the existence of a steroid receptor fast-action complex, or SRFC, in caveolae. Estrogen binding to ERα on the SRFC in caveolae leads to Gαi activation, which mediates downstream events. The downstream signaling includes activation of tyrosine kinase-MAPK and Akt/protein kinase B signaling, stimulation of heat shock protein 90 binding to eNOS, and perturbation of the local calcium environment, leading to eNOS phosphorylation and calmodulin-mediated eNOS stimulation. These unique genomic and nongenomic processes are critical to the vasoprotective and atheroprotective characteristics of estrogen. In addition, they serve as excellent paradigms for further elucidation of novel mechanisms of steroid hormone action.
Repellents against Earthworms, Hydroxamic Acids and Isothiocyanate, from UV-B Damaged Maize and Radish
Authors: Kosemura Seiji
Published: October 2002

Hydroxamic acids (4-hydroxy-1,4-benzoxazin-3-ones) and 4-methylthio-3-butenyl isothiocyanate as repellents against earthworms, have been isolated from UV-B damaged maize (Zea mays L.) seedlings and roots of Japanese radish (Raphanus sativus L.).
A Neutral Trinuclear Molybdenum-Sulfur(Oxygen) Cluster Complex with [Mo3(μ3-S)(μ-O)3] Core
Authors: Qin Ye-Yan , Yao Yuan-Gen , Kang Yao , Li Zhao-Ji , Chen Yu-Biao
Published: October 2002

A neutral molybdenum cluster Mo3(μ3-S)(μ-O)3(DTP)4(H2O) (DTP=diethyl dithiophosphate) is rationally synthesized and structurally characterized. Its molecules are linked via hydrogen bonding and supramolecular interactions, leading to an infinite one-dimensional chain structure.
Application of Poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) to Counter Electrode in Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Saito Yasuteru , Kitamura Takayuki , Wada Yuji , Yanagida Shozo
Published: October 2002

Dye-sensitized solar cells fabricated using chemically polymerized poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) on a conductive glass as a counter electrode showed comparable conversion efficiency with a cell using platinum sputtered counter electrode.
High Yield of Vaterite Precipitation Induced by Trace Lanthanum Ion from a Supersaturated Solution of Calcium Carbonate at 50 °C
Authors: Tsuno Hiroshi , Kagi Hiroyuki , Akagi Tasuku
Published: October 2002

The formation of calcium carbonate from a supersaturated solution doped with trace lanthanum was studied at various temperatures. At a temperature of around 50 °C, more than 80% of calcium carbonate precipitated from 5 μmol kg−1 LaCl3, 15 mmol kg−1 CaCl2-NaHCO3 solution was vaterite while from a lanthanum-free solution calcium carbonate precipitated exclusively as calcite.
Selective Langmuir–Blodgett Transfer on Phase-Separated Films
Authors: Matsumoto Mutsuyoshi , Tanaka Ken-ichi , Azumi Reiko , Kondo Yukishige , Yoshino Norio
Published: October 2002

Mixed Langmuir–Blodgett (LB) films of arachidic acid (AA) and perfluorotetradecanoic acid (PA) took phase-separated structures with the monolayer domains of AA buried in the monolayer of PA. When two monolayers of AA were transferred on the 1/1 mixed LB films of AA and PA, AA was transferred only on the domains of AA in the mixed LB films.
Synthesis of Mesostructured Silica Using Nonionic Copolymers as the Templates
Authors: Xu An-Wu
Published: October 2002

Hierarchically ordered mesostructured silica was prepared using the mixture of silicone surfactant and P123 as the template. Hexagonal nanopores were built in layered silica walls to form complex mesostructures. The lamellar mesophase and hexagonal nanopores in the walls were independently templated from silicone surfactant and P123.
Venous limb gangrene during overlapping therapy with warfarin and a direct thrombin inhibitor for immune heparin‐induced thrombocytopenia
Authors: Smythe Maureen A. , Warkentin Theodore E. , Stephens Jennifer L. , Zakalik Dana , Mattson Joan C.
Published: October 2002

We report two patients with deep‐vein thrombosis complicating immune heparin‐induced thrombocytopenia who developed venous limb gangrene during overlapping therapy with a direct thrombin inhibitor (lepirudin or argatroban) and warfarin. In both patients, therapy with the direct thrombin inhibitor was interrupted during persisting severe athrombocytopenia while warfarin administration continued. Both patients exhibited the typical feature of a supratherapeutic international normalized ratio (INRs, 5.9 and 7.3) that has been linked previously with warfarin‐associated venous limb gangrene. These data suggest that warfarin anticoagulation be postponed in patients with acute heparin‐induced thrombocytopenia until substantial recovery of the platelet count has occurred. Am. J. Hematol. 71:50–52, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
LGI1 is mutated in familial temporal lobe epilepsy characterized by aphasic seizures
Authors: Gu Wenli , Brodtkorb Eylert , Steinlein Ortrud K.
Published: October 2002

Autosomal dominant lateral temporal lobe epilepsy previously has been linked to chromosome 10q22‐q24, and recently mutations in the LGI1 gene (Leucine‐rich gene, Glioma Inactivated) have been found in some autosomal dominant lateral temporal lobe epilepsy families. We have now identified a missense mutation affecting a conserved cysteine residue in the extracellular region of the LGI1 protein. The C46R mutation is associated with autosomal dominant lateral temporal lobe epilepsy in a large Norwegian family showing unusual clinical features like short‐lasting sensory aphasia and auditory symptoms.
Astrocyte‐specific TSC1 conditional knockout mice exhibit abnormal neuronal organization and seizures
Authors: Uhlmann Erik J. , Wong Michael , Baldwin Rebecca L. , Bajenaru M. Livia , Onda Hiroaki , Kwiatkowski David J. , Yamada Kelvin , Gutmann David H.
Published: October 2002

Persons affected with tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) develop a wide range of neurological abnormalities including aberrant neuronal migration and seizures. In an effort to model TSC‐associated central nervous system abnormalities in mice, we generated two independent lines of astrocyte‐specific Tsc1 conditional knockout mice by using the Cre‐LoxP system. Astrocyte‐specific Tsc1‐null mice exhibit electroencephalographically proven seizures after the first month of age and begin to die at 3 to 4 months. Tsc1‐null mice show significant increases in astrocyte numbers throughout the brain by 3 weeks of age and abnormal neuronal organization in the hippocampus between 3 and 5 weeks. Moreover, cultured Tsc1‐null astrocytes behave similar to wild‐type astrocytes during log phase growth but demonstrate increased saturation density associated with reduced p27Kip1 expression. Collectively, our results demonstrate that astrocyte‐specific disruption of Tsc1 in mice provides a context‐dependent growth advantage for astrocytes that results in abnormalities in neuronal organization and epilepsy.
Mitochondrial DNA depletion and dGK gene mutations
Authors: Salviati Leonardo , Sacconi Sabrina , Mancuso Michelangelo , Otaegui David , Camaño Pilar , Marina Alberto , Rabinowitz Simon , Shiffman Rebecca , Thompson Karen , Wilson Claire M. , Feigenbaum Annette , Naini Ali B. , Hirano Michio , Bonilla Eduardo , DiMauro Salvatore , Vu Tuan H.
Published: October 2002

Mitochondrial DNA depletion syndrome is a clinically heterogeneous group of disorders characterized by a reduction in mitochondrial DNA copy number. The recent discovery of mutations in the deoxyguanosine kinase (dGK) gene in patients with the hepatocerebral form of mitochondrial DNA depletion syndrome prompted us to screen 21 patients to determine the frequency of dGK mutations, further characterize the clinical spectrum, and correlate genotypes with phenotypes. We detected mutations in three patients (14%). One patient had a homozygous GATT duplication (nucleotides 763–766), and another had a homozygous GT deletion (nucleotides 609–610); both mutations lead to truncated proteins. The third patient was a compound heterozygote for two missense mutations (R142K and E227K) that affect critical residues of the protein. These mutations were associated with variable phenotypes, and their low frequencies suggests that dGK is not the only gene responsible for mitochondrial DNA depletion in liver. The patient with the missense mutations had isolated liver failure and responded well to liver transplantation, which may be a therapeutic option in selected cases.
Leigh‐like encephalopathy complicating Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy
Authors: Funalot Benoît , Reynier Pascal , Vighetto Alain , Ranoux Danièle , Bonnefont Jean‐Paul , Godinot Catherine , Malthièry Yves , Mas Jean‐Louis
Published: October 2002

Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy is a mitochondrial disease caused by point mutations in mitochondrial DNA. It usually presents as severe bilateral visual loss in young adults. We report on a neurological disorder resembling Leigh syndrome, which complicated Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy in three unrelated male patients harboring mitochondrial DNA mutations at nucleotide positions 3460, 14459, and 14484, respectively. This Leigh‐like encephalopathy appears to be associated with a much more severe outcome than isolated Leber's hereditary optic neuropathy.
Sampling technique to discriminate the different tissue layers of growing antler tips for gene discovery
Authors: Li Chunyi , Clark Dawn E. , Lord Eric A. , Stanton Jo‐Anne L. , Suttie James M.
Published: October 2002

The utilization of a deer antler model to study gene expression in tissues undergoing rapid growth has been hampered by an inability to sample the different tissue types. We report here a standardized procedure to identify different tissue types in growing antler tips and demonstrate that it can help in the classification of expressed sequence tags (ESTs). The procedure was developed using observable morphological markers within the unstained tissue at collection, and was validated by histological assessments and virtual Northern blotting. Four red deer antlers were collected at 60 days of growth and the tips (top 5 cm) were then removed. The following observable markers were identified distoproximally: the dermis (4.86 mm), the subdermal bulge (2.90 mm), the discrete columns (6.50 mm), the transition zone (a mixture of discrete and continuous columns) (3.22 mm), and the continuous columns (8.00 mm). The histological examination showed that these markers corresponded to the dermis, reserve mesenchyme, precartilage, transitional tissue from precartilage to cartilage, and cartilage, respectively. The gene expression studies revealed that these morphologically identified layers were functionally distinct tissue types and had distinct gene expression profiles. We believe that precisely defining these tissue types in growing antler tips will greatly facilitate new discoveries in this exciting field. Anat Rec 268:125–130, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
DNA oligonucleotide duplexes containing intramolecular platinated cross‐links: Energetics, hydration, sequence, and ionic effects
Authors: Kankia Besik I. , Soto Ana Maria , Burns Nicole , Shikiya Ronald , Tung Chang‐Shung , Marky Luis A.
Published: October 2002

The anticancer activity of cisplatin arises from its ability to bind covalently to DNA, forming primarily intrastrand cross‐links to adjacent purine residues; the most common adducts involve d(GpG) (65%) and d(ApG) (25%) intrastrand cross‐links. The incorporation of these platinum adducts in a B‐DNA helix induces local distortions, causing bending and unwinding of the DNA. In this work, we used temperature‐dependent UV spectroscopy to investigate the unfolding thermodynamics, and associated ionic effects, of two sets of DNA decamer duplexes containing either cis‐[Pt(NH3)2{d(GpG}] or cis‐[Pt(NH3)2 {d(ApG}] cross‐links, and their corresponding unmodified duplexes. The platinated duplexes are less stable and unfold with lower TMs (and ΔG°s) in enthalpy‐driven reactions, which indicates a loss of favorable base‐pair stacking interactions. The folding thermodynamics and hydration effects for the first set of decamers containing the d(GpG) cross‐link was investigated by a combination of titration calorimetry, density, and ultrasound techniques. The hydration parameters showed an uptake of structural water by the platinated duplex and a release of electrostricted water by the control duplex. Relative to the unmodified duplex, the folding of the platinated duplex at 20°C yielded a positive ΔΔG° term [and positive ΔΔH‐Δ(TΔS) compensation] and a negative differential volume change. The opposite signs of the ΔΔG° and ΔΔV terms confirmed its uptake of structural water. Further, solvent‐accessible surface areas calculations for a similar pair of dodecamer duplexes indicated that the modified duplex has a 503 œÅ2 higher polar and nonpolar surface area that is exposed to the solvent. Therefore, the incorporation of a platinum adduct in duplex DNA disrupts favorable base‐pair stacking interactions, yielding a greater exposure of aromatic bases to the solvent, which in turn immobilizes structural water. The overall results correlate nicely with the results reported in the available structural data of nuclear magnetic resonance solution studies. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers (Nucleic Acid Sci) 65: 218–227, 2002
Optimization of cardiac cell seeding and distribution in 3D porous alginate scaffolds
Authors: Dar Ayelet , Shachar Michal , Leor Jonathan , Cohen Smadar
Published: October 2002

Cardiac tissue engineering has evolved as a potential therapeutic approach to assist in cardiac regeneration. We have recently shown that tissue‐engineered cardiac graft, constructed from cardiomyocytes seeded within an alginate scaffold, is capable of preventing the deterioration in cardiac function after myocardial infarction in rats. The present article addresses cell seeding within porous alginate scaffolds in an attempt to achieve 3D high‐density cardiac constructs with a uniform cell distribution. Due to the hydrophilic nature of the alginate scaffold, its >90% porosity and interconnected pore structure, cell seeding onto the scaffold was efficient and short, up to 30 min. Application of a moderate centrifugal force during cell seeding resulted in a uniform cell distribution throughout the alginate scaffolds, consequently enabling the loading of a large number of cells onto the 3D scaffolds. The percent cell yield in the alginate scaffolds ranged between 60–90%, depending on cell density at seeding; it was 90% at seeding densities of up to 1 × 108 cells/cm3 scaffold and decreased to 60% at higher densities. The highly dense cardiac constructs maintained high metabolic activity in culture. Scanning electron microscopy revealed that the cells aggregated within the scaffold pores. Some of the aggregates were contracting spontaneously within the matrix pores. Throughout the culture there was no indication of cardiomyocyte proliferation within the scaffolds, nor was it found in 3D cultures of cardiofibroblasts. This may enable the development of cardiac cocultures, without domination of cardiofibroblasts with time. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biotechnol Bioeng 80: 305–312, 2002.
Viscoelastic fluid description of bacterial biofilm material properties
Authors: Klapper I. , Rupp C. J. , Cargo R. , Purvedorj B. , Stoodley P.
Published: October 2002

A mathematical model describing the constitutive properties of biofilms is required for predicting biofilm deformation, failure, and detachment in response to mechanical forces. Laboratory observations indicate that biofilms are viscoelastic materials. Likewise, current knowledge of biofilm internal structure suggests modeling biofilms as associated polymer viscoelastic systems. Supporting experimental results and a system of viscoelastic fluid equations with a linear Jeffreys viscoelastic stress–strain law are presented here. This system of equations is based on elements of associated polymer physics and is also consistent with presented and previous experimental results. A number of predictions can be made. One particularly interesting result is the prediction of an elastic relaxation time on the order of a few minutes—biofilm disturbances on shorter time scales produce an elastic response, biofilm disturbances on longer time scales result in viscous flow, i.e., nonreversible biofilm deformation. Although not previously recognized, evidence of this phenomenon is in fact present in recent experimental results. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biotechnol Bioeng 80: 289–296, 2002.
Afferent input regulates the formation of distal dendritic branches
Authors: Mizrahi Adi , Libersat Frederic
Published: October 2002

During postembryonic development, the dendritic arbors of neurons grow to accommodate new incoming synaptic inputs. Our goal was to examine which features of dendritic architecture of postsynaptic interneurons are regulated by these synaptic inputs. To address this question, we took advantage of the cockroach cercal system where the morphology of the sensory giant interneurons (GIs) is uniquely identified and, therefore, amenable to quantitative analysis. We analyzed the three‐dimensional architecture of chronically deafferented vs. normally developed dendritic trees of a specific identified GI, namely GI2. GI2 shows five prominent dendrites, four of which were significantly altered after deafferentation. De‐afferentation induced an average of 55% decrease in metric measures (number of branch points, total length, and total surface area) on the entire dendritic tree. Sholl and branch order analysis showed a decrease in the most distal and higher order branches. We suggest that afferent input plays a specific role in shaping the morphology of dendritic trees by regulating the formation or maintenance of high‐order distal branches. J. Comp. Neurol. 452:1–10, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Addressing sponsor and stakeholder needs in the evaluation authorizing environment: Trends and implications
Authors: Bernstein David J. , Whitsett Maria D. , Mohan Rakesh
Published: October 2002

The editors make note of several trends and implications arising from the discussions in the earlier chapters, in particular, the need to recognize the complexity of evaluation contexts involving multiple sponsors and stakeholders. The significance of the multifaceted and complex environment for the conduct of evaluation in state and local government settings is noted, a summary of the historical context is provided, and a discussion of the importance of maintaining evaluator independence and objectivity when addressing the diverse needs of sponsors and stakeholders is included.
One‐year prevalence of death thoughts, suicide ideation and behaviours in an elderly population
Authors: Scocco P. , De Leo D.
Published: October 2002

Background

Suicidality is constituted by all those phenomena that are apparently positioned along a continuum, with the two extremes represented by death wishes and completed suicide.

Objectives

The aim of this paper is to show the one‐year prevalence of the phenomena constituting this possible continuum in the elderly population (aged 65 years and over) of a northern Italian city and to evaluate the relationship between some of these phenomena with psychological suffering.

Method

Emotional feelings and suicidal thoughts have been investigated by an epidemiological survey conducted in a central quarter of that city. Data on attempted and completed suicide derived from the data bank of the Padua's WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Suicide Prevention that monitors these phenomena since 1989.

Results and Conclusions

Results suggest the existence of some continuity in suicidal phenomena, where prevalence decreases from those of emotional/ideational nature to most extreme behaviour. Subjects presenting with more severe suicidal ideation were those also obtaining highest scores in a number of sub‐scales of the Brief Symptom Inventory. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Treatment of bipolar disorder in older adults
Authors: Sajatovic Martha
Published: October 2002

Background

It has been reported that 10% of all patients with bipolar disorder develop their illness after the age of 50, with bipolar disorder accounting for 5–19% of mood disorder presentations in the elderly. There has been a growing awareness regarding the manifestation of bipolar disorder among older adults due to both changes in national demographics, and developing sophistication in the treatment of bipolar illness. A persistent problem in our understanding of management of late life bipolar disorder is the paucity of research and rigorous published studies on the psychopharmacology of this condition.

Objective

This paper reviews medication treatments, non‐medication biological therapies, and psychosocial interventions for bipolar disorder in late life with a particular emphasis on age related modifiers of treatment.

Methods

Findings are based upon review of the current literature.

Results

There are multiple, significant gaps in our knowledge of bipolar disorder in late life which have important implications in the optimum treatment of elderly individuals with bipolar illness.

Conclusion

There are a number of areas of needed future research in late life bipolar disorder. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Expatriation and repatriation in MNCs: a taxonomy
Authors: Baruch Yehuda , Altman Yochanan
Published: October 2002

The challenge of the management of expatriates and repatriates has never been more timely nor urgent:
globalization has forced expatriation into the corporate agenda, confronting us with an array of questions on
HRM strategy and practice. We propose that a wide range of current thinking and practice may be conveniently
grouped into a taxonomy of five organizational options, each advancing a different set of expatriation
relationships: Global, Emissary, Peripheral, Professional, and Expedient. A framework outlining the main
configurations of these options generates a generic model for expatriation at the organizational level. This
forms the principal part of the article, followed by a comprehensive discussion and implications for practice.
© 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Creating high‐performance organizations in the public sector
Authors: Muldrow Tressie Wright , Buckley Timothy , Schay Brigitte W.
Published: October 2002

Accurate information about an organization's culture can provide a basis for improving processes and
enhancing outcomes such as customer service and return on investment. Using a reliable and valid survey is an
effective way to obtain employee perceptions about the organizational culture. This article describes the
development and use of the U.S. Office of Personnel Management's Organizational Assessment Survey. It provides
two examples, the U.S. Mint and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region VI, that show how
measures of organizational culture can help federal agencies become high‐performance organizations. ©
2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Inhibition of apoptosis in human breast cancer cells: Role in tumor progression to the metastatic state
Authors: Fernández Yolanda , Gu Bin , Martínez Antonio , Torregrosa Angels , Sierra Angels
Published: October 2002

Reduction in apoptosis has been associated with tumor metastases and response to chemotherapy in breast cancer. We examine the influence of apoptosis status and the expression of antiapoptotic proteins Bcl‐2 and Bcl‐xL on metastatic progression and response to therapy in an experimental model of breast cancer. We used human breast cancer cells (MDA‐MB 435, MDA‐MB 468 and MCF‐7) to induce orthotopic xenograft tumors in nude mice. The overexpression of Bcl‐2 or Bcl‐xL influenced tumorigenicity, 468 transfectants being less tumorigenic than control (p < 0.0001). Lung metastasis appeared at day 120 in animals injected with 435/Bcl‐2 or 435/Bcl‐xL and they showed higher metastatic activity than control 435/Neo tumors (p = 0.02). In contrast, mice with 468 tumors were followed for 1 year after tumor excision, but they did not develop metastatic foci. 435/Bcl‐2 and 435/Bcl‐xL transfectant cells bound less readily to laminin (ANOVA, p < 0.0001), fibronectin (ANOVA, p < 0.0001) and collagen type‐IV (ANOVA, p < 0.0001) than 435/Neo cells. The overexpression of antiapoptotic proteins in 435 transfectants rescued 20–40% of cells from anoikis at 64 hr in rocking conditions. In contrast, at this time only 5–10% of 468 and MCF‐7 transfectant cells were rescued. Thus, the overexpression of the Bcl‐2 or Bcl‐xL associated with the loss of apoptosis in breast cancer cells in vivo may account for their metastatic behavior. These genes increase tumor metastasis when the oncogenic background has triggered the metastatic process, in which anoikis might determine tumor progression when the life span of the cells is extended. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Elevated protein expression of cyclin D1 and Fra‐1 but decreased expression of c‐Myc in human colorectal adenocarcinomas overexpressing β‐catenin
Authors: Wang Hanlin L. , Wang Julia , Xiao Shu‐Yuan , Haydon Rex , Stoiber Debra , He Tong‐Chuan , Bissonnette Marc , Hart John
Published: October 2002

Mutations of the adenomatous polyposis coli tumor suppressor gene, or its downstream target β‐catenin, have been implicated in the initiation of most sporadic human colorectal epithelial neoplasms. These mutations, in turn, lead to aberrant nuclear accumulation of β‐catenin and subsequent activation of the β‐catenin/Tcf transcription factor complex. In vitro studies utilizing cultured human colon cancer cell lines have identified c‐myc, cyclin D1 and fra‐1 as target genes of β‐catenin/Tcf signaling. In our study, 12 cases of human colorectal adenocarcinomas were examined by Western immunoblotting analysis and immunohistochemical staining to specifically investigate whether the protein expression of these target genes was indeed altered in vivo by β‐catenin dysregulation. The results show that the protein level of β‐catenin was significantly increased in all 12 tumors (3.4 ± 1.0‐fold increase compared to the control normal mucosa by Western immunoblotting, p < 0.05), and this increase was associated with positive nuclear staining by immunohistochemistry in 10 cases. Increased levels of expression of cyclin D1 and Fra‐1 proteins were also demonstrated in every tumor (9.0 ± 2.7 and 3.3 ± 0.9‐fold increases compared to normal mucosa, respectively). Surprisingly, the protein level of c‐Myc was significantly decreased in all tumors examined by 49 ± 19% (p < 0.05), but the c‐myc mRNA level was increased in 8 of 12 tumors when compared to that in normal mucosa by RT‐PCR. Immunohistochemical staining performed on these carcinomas and additional 27 colorectal carcinomas further demonstrated that the protein expression level of c‐Myc and β‐catenin nuclear localization were not correlated. Moreover, 15 of 20 colorectal adenomas exhibited positive nuclear β‐catenin immunostaining, among which 11 also exhibited increased c‐Myc protein expression. These data thus support the notion that upregulation of cyclin D1 and Fra‐1 in human colorectal adenocarcinomas is driven by abnormally expressed β‐catenin. However, the regulation of c‐myc expression in colorectal tumors appears to be more complex. While dysregulated β‐catenin may cause a transcriptional upregulation of the c‐myc gene, the c‐Myc protein expression appears to be further regulated by a posttranscriptional mechanism(s) during the process of neoplastic progression. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Hydration structure of human lysozyme investigated by molecular dynamics simulation and cryogenic X‐ray crystal structure analyses: On the correlation between crystal water sites, solvent density, and solvent dipole
Authors: Higo Junichi , Nakasako Masayoshi
Published: October 2002

The hydration structure of human lysozyme was studied with cryogenic X‐ray diffraction experiment and molecular dynamics simulations. The crystal structure analysis at a resolution of 1.4 Å provided 405 crystal water molecules around the enzyme. In the simulations at 300 K, the crystal structure was immersed in explicit water molecules. We examined correlations between crystal water sites and two physical quantities calculated from the 1‐ns simulation trajectories: the solvent density reflecting the time‐averaged distribution of water molecules, and the solvent dipole measuring the orientational ordering of water molecules around the enzyme. The local high solvent density sites were consistent with the crystal water sites, and better correlation was observed around surface residues with smaller conformational fluctuations during the simulations. Solvent dipoles around those sites exhibited coherent and persistent ordering, indicating that the hydration water molecules at the crystal water sites were highly oriented through the interactions with hydrophilic residues. Those water molecules restrained the orientational motions of adjoining water molecules and induced a solvent dipole field, which was persistent during the simulations around the enzyme. The coherent ordering was particularly prominent in and around the active site cleft of the enzyme. Because the ordering was significant up to the third to fourth solvent layer region from the enzyme surface, the coherently ordered solvent dipoles likely contributed to the molecular recognition of the enzyme in a long‐distance range. The present work may provide a new approach combining computational and the experimental studies to understand protein hydration. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem 23: 1323–1336, 2002
Natriuretic peptides in relation to the cardiac innervation and conduction system
Authors: Hansson Magnus
Published: October 2002

During the past two decades, the heart has been known to undergo endocrine action, harbouring peptides with hormonal activities. These, termed “atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP),” “brain natriuretic peptide (BNP),” and “C‐type natriuretic peptide (CNP),” are polypeptides mainly produced in the cardiac myocardium, where they are released into the circulation, producing profound hypotensive effects due to their diuretic, natriuretic, and vascular dilatory properties. It is, furthermore, well established that cardiac disorders such as congestive heart failure and different forms of cardiomyopathy are combined with increased expression of ANP and BNP, leading to elevated levels of these peptides in the plasma. Besides the occurrence of natriuretic peptides (NPs) in the ordinary myocardium, the presence of ANP in the cardiac conduction system has been described. There is also evidence of ANP gene expression in nervous tissue such as the nodose ganglion and the superior cervical ganglion of the rat, ganglia known to be involved in the neuronal regulation of the heart. Furthermore, in the mammalian heart, ANP appears to affect the cardiac autonomic nervous system by sympathoinhibitory and vagoexcitatory actions. This article provides an overview of the relationship between the cardiac conduction system, the cardiac innervation and NPs in the mammalian heart and provides data for the concept that ANP is also involved in neuronal cardiac regulation. Microsc. Res. Tech. 58:378–386, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Genetic variation of hepatitis B surface antigen coding region among infants with chronic hepatitis B virus infection
Authors: Nainan Omana V. , Khristova Marina L. , Byun KwanSoo , Xia Guoliang , Taylor Patricia E. , Stevens Cladd E. , Margolis Harold S.
Published: October 2002

Variants in the amino acid composition of the primary antibody‐binding site of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) have been identified in a number of populations with chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection. Direct sequencing of amplified or cloned PCR products, solid phase detection of sequence‐specific PCR products (SP‐PCR), and limiting dilution cloning PCR (LDC‐PCR) were compared to determine their sensitivity in detecting differing concentrations of HBsAg variants. LDC‐PCR had the greatest sensitivity and could detect HBsAg variants at a concentration of 0.1% of the total viral population. HBsAg variants were detected in 51% of infants with chronic HBV infection acquired after postexposure prophylaxis, and more than half of the variants were detected only by the most sensitive methods. J. Med. Virol. 68:319–327, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Comparisons of HPV DNA detection by MY09/11 PCR methods
Authors: Castle Philip E. , Schiffman Mark , Gravitt Patti E. , Kendall Hortense , Fishman Stacy , Dong Huali , Hildesheim Allan , Herrero Rolando , Bratti M. Concepcion , Sherman Mark E. , Lorincz Attila , Schussler John E. , Burk Robert D.
Published: October 2002

Two modifications to the original L1 consensus primer human papillomavirus (HPV) PCR method, MY09–MY011, using AmpliTaq DNA polymerase (MY‐Taq), were evaluated for HPV DNA detection on clinical specimens from a cohort study of cervical cancer in Costa Rica. First, HPV DNA testing of 2978 clinical specimens by MY09–MY011 primer set, using AmpliTaq Gold DNA polymerase (MY‐Gold) were compared with MY‐Taq testing. There was 86.8% total agreement (κ = 0.72, 95%CI = 0.70–75) and 69.6% agreement among positives between MY‐Gold and MY‐Taq. MY‐Gold detected 38% more HPV infections (P < 0.0001) and 45% more cancer‐associated (high‐risk) HPV types (P < 0.0001) than MY‐Taq, including 12 of the 13 high‐risk HPV types. Analyses of discordant results using cytologic diagnoses and detection of HPV DNA by the Hybrid Capture 2 Test suggested that MY‐Gold preferentially detected DNA positive specimens with lower HPV viral loads compared with MY‐Taq. In a separate analysis, PGMY09–PGMY11 (PGMY‐Gold), a redesigned MY09/11 primer set, was compared with MY‐Gold for HPV DNA detection (n = 439). There was very good agreement between the two methods (κ = 0.83; 95%CI = 0.77–0.88) and surprisingly no significant differences in HPV detection (P = 0.41). In conclusion, we found MY‐Gold to be a more sensitive assay for the detection of HPV DNA than MY‐Taq. Our data also suggest that studies reporting HPV DNA detection by PCR need to report the type of polymerase used, as well as other assay specifics, and underscore the need for worldwide standards of testing. J. Med. Virol. 68:417–423, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Technical‐administrative task performance, leadership task performance, and contextual performance: considering the influence of team‐ and task‐related composition variables
Authors: Mohammed Susan , Mathieu John E. , ‘Bart’ Bartlett A. L.
Published: October 2002

The purpose of the present study was to examine how the mix of ability, experience, and personality impacts three types of team performance: technical‐administrative task performance, leadership task performance, and contextual performance. Relationships were tested using data collected from student management teams, who were required to plan and supervise the preparation and service of meals in a cafeteria‐style dining room patronized by university students, staff, and faculty. Results revealed that both team‐ and task‐related composition variables predicted leadership and contextual performance. Specifically, grade point average was significantly related to technical‐administrative task performance, and extraversion, neuroticism, and grade point average were related to leadership task performance. Agreeableness and restaurant experience predicted contextual performance. Surprisingly, conscientiousness did not account for significant variance in any of the three types of performance measured. The implications of these findings for the study of team performance in organizations are discussed. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quantitation of calcitonin gene‐related peptide mrna and neuronal cell death in facial motor nuclei following axotomy and 633 nm low power laser treatment
Authors: Snyder Sara K. , Byrnes Kimberly R. , Borke Rosemary C. , Sanchez Ana , Anders Juanita J.
Published: October 2002

Background and Objectives

A persistent increase in calcitonin gene‐related peptide (CGRP) immunoreactivity in motoneurons may serve as an indicator for regeneration after peripheral nerve injury [Borke et al., J Neurocytol 1993;22:141–153].

Study Design/Materials and Methods

We examined the effects of low power laser treatment (633 nm) on axotomy‐induced changes in α‐CGRP mRNA and long‐term neuronal survival in facial motoneurons. A quantitative reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) assay for α‐CGRP mRNA was used to detect changes in the response to axotomy and laser irradiation. Cell counts of neurons in injured and non‐injured facial motor nuclei of laser‐treated and non‐treated rats were done to estimate neuronal survival.

Results

A 10‐fold increase (P < 0.0001) in mRNA for α‐CGRP at 11 days post‐transection and an almost threefold increase (P < 0.0001) in neuronal survival at 6–9 months post‐transection were found in 633 nm light treated rats.

Discussion

These findings demonstrate that 633 nm laser light upregulates CGRP mRNA and support the theory that laser irradiation increases the rate of regeneration, target reinnervation, and neuronal survival of the axotomized neuron. Lasers Surg. Med. 31:216–222, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.