ALBERT

Notes: 1 , the smallest eigenvalue of a symmetric, positive definite matrix, and is solved by Newton iteration with line search. The paper describes the algorithm and its implementation including estimation of λ1, how to get a good starting point for the iteration, and up- and downdating of Cholesky factorization. Results of extensive testing and comparison with other methods for constrained QP are given.

Notes: 1 ,...,Am are true, then at least ℓ of the propositions B1,...,Bn are true. The main result of the paper is that the procedure in fact provides a convex hull description.

Notes: T (Mx+q)=0, Mx+q≥0, x≥0 has a solution. We explain how one can use the polyhedral structure of the set of all triangulations of a finite point set to determine if an n×n matrix M is a Q-matrix. Our implementation of the algorithm is practical for deciding the Q-nature for all M with n≤8.

Notes: Abstract. In this paper the problem of finding the global optimum of a concave function over a polytope is considered. A well-known class of algorithms for this problem is the class of conical algorithms. In particular, the conical algorithm based on the so called ω-subdivision strategy is considered. It is proved that, for any given accuracy ε〉0, this algorithm stops in a finite time by returning an ε-optimal solution for the problem, while it is convergent for ε=0.

Notes: Abstract. We investigate strong inequalities for mixed 0-1 integer programs derived from flow cover inequalities. Flow cover inequalities are usually not facet defining and need to be lifted to obtain stronger inequalities. However, because of the sequential nature of the standard lifting techniques and the complexity of the optimization problems that have to be solved to obtain lifting coefficients, lifting of flow cover inequalities is computationally very demanding. We present a computationally efficient way to lift flow cover inequalities based on sequence independent lifting techniques and give computational results that show the effectiveness of our lifting procedures.

Notes: theory. This approach also quantifies the size of permissible perturbations. We include a discussion of these results for block diagonal semidefinite programs, of which linear programming is a special case.

Notes: Abstract. Given an m×n integer matrix A of full row rank, we consider the problem of computing the maximum of ∥B -1 A∥2 where B varies over all bases of A. This quantity appears in various places in the mathematical programming literature. More recently, logarithm of this number was the determining factor in the complexity bound of Vavasis and Ye’s primal-dual interior-point algorithm. We prove that the problem of approximating this maximum norm, even within an exponential (in the dimension of A) factor, is NP-hard. Our proof is based on a closely related result of L. Khachiyan [1].

Notes: Abstract. We propose a class of non-interior point algorithms for solving the complementarity problems(CP): Find a nonnegative pair (x,y)∈ℝ 2n satisfying y=f(x) and x i y i =0 for every i∈{1,2,...,n}, where f is a continuous mapping from ℝ n to ℝ n . The algorithms are based on the Chen-Harker-Kanzow-Smale smoothing functions for the CP, and have the following features; (a) it traces a trajectory in ℝ 3n which consists of solutions of a family of systems of equations with a parameter, (b) it can be started from an arbitrary (not necessarily positive) point in ℝ 2n in contrast to most of interior-point methods, and (c) its global convergence is ensured for a class of problems including (not strongly) monotone complementarity problems having a feasible interior point. To construct the algorithms, we give a homotopy and show the existence of a trajectory leading to a solution under a relatively mild condition, and propose a class of algorithms involving suitable neighborhoods of the trajectory. We also give a sufficient condition on the neighborhoods for global convergence and two examples satisfying it.

Notes: Abstract. This paper establishes a linear convergence rate for a class of epsilon-subgradient descent methods for minimizing certain convex functions on ℝ n . Currently prominent methods belonging to this class include the resolvent (proximal point) method and the bundle method in proximal form (considered as a sequence of serious steps). Other methods, such as a variant of the proximal point method given by Correa and Lemaréchal, can also fit within this framework, depending on how they are implemented. The convex functions covered by the analysis are those whose conjugates have subdifferentials that are locally upper Lipschitzian at the origin, a property generalizing classical regularity conditions.

Notes: Abstract. The paper deals with semi-infinite optimization problems which are defined by finitely many equality constraints and infinitely many inequality constraints. We generalize the concept of strongly stable stationary points which was introduced by Kojima for finite problems; it refers to the local existence and uniqueness of a stationary point for each sufficiently small perturbed problem, where perturbations up to second order are allowed. Under the extended Mangasarian-Fromovitz constraint qualification we present equivalent conditions for the strong stability of a considered stationary point in terms of first and second derivatives of the involved functions. In particular, we discuss the case where the reduction approach is not satisfied.

Notes: Abstract. Optimal solutions of interior point algorithms for linear and quadratic programming and linear complementarity problems provide maximally complementary solutions. Maximally complementary solutions can be characterized by optimal partitions. On the other hand, the solutions provided by simplex–based pivot algorithms are given in terms of complementary bases. A basis identification algorithm is an algorithm which generates a complementary basis, starting from any complementary solution. A partition identification algorithm is an algorithm which generates a maximally complementary solution (and its corresponding partition), starting from any complementary solution. In linear programming such algorithms were respectively proposed by Megiddo in 1991 and Balinski and Tucker in 1969. In this paper we will present identification algorithms for quadratic programming and linear complementarity problems with sufficient matrices. The presented algorithms are based on the principal pivot transform and the orthogonality property of basis tableaus.

Notes: Abstract. We study the following decision-making scenario: A linear program is solved by a set of agents arranged hierarchically in a tree, where each agent decides the level of certain variables, and has a distinct objective function, known to all agents. Authority is reflected in two ways: Agents higher in the tree set their variables first; and agents that are siblings in the tree resolve their game by focusing on the Nash equilibrium that is optimum for the agent above them. We give a necessary and sufficient condition for such a hierarchy to be efficient (i.e., to have perfect coordination, to ultimately optimize the objective of the firm). We study problems related to designing a hierarchy (assigning decision makers to positions in the tree) in order to achieve efficiency or otherwise optimize coordination.

Notes: Abstract. In this paper, we propose a non-interior continuation method for solving generalized linear complementarity problems (GLCP) introduced by Cottle and Dantzig. The method is based on a smoothing function derived from the exponential penalty function first introduced by Kort and Bertsekas for constrained minimization. This smoothing function can also be viewed as a natural extension of Chen-Mangasarian’s neural network smooth function. By using the smoothing function, we approximate GLCP as a family of parameterized smooth equations. An algorithm is presented to follow the smoothing path. Under suitable assumptions, it is shown that the algorithm is globally convergent and local Q-quadratically convergent. Few preliminary numerical results are also reported.

Notes: Abstract. We demonstrate that if A 1,...,A m are symmetric positive semidefinite n×n matrices with positive definite sum and A is an arbitrary symmetric n×n matrix, then the relative accuracy, in terms of the optimal value, of the semidefinite relaxation $$\max_X\{\Tr(AX)\mid\, \Tr(A_iX)\le1,\,\,i=1,...,m;\,X\succeq0\} \eqno{\hbox{(SDP)}}$$ of the optimization program $$x^TAx\to\max\mid\, x^TA_ix\le 1,\,\,i=1,...,m \eqno{\hbox{(P)}}$$ is not worse than $$1-\frac{1}{{2\ln(2m^2)}}$$ . It is shown that this bound is sharp in order, as far as the dependence on m is concerned, and that a~feasible solution x to (P) with $$x^TAx\ge \frac{{\Opt(\hbox{{\rm SDP}})}}{{2\ln(2m^2)}} \eqno{(*)}$$ can be found efficiently. This somehow improves one of the results of Nesterov [4] where bound similar to (*) is established for the case when all Ai are of rank 1.

Notes: Abstract. This paper considers the precedence constrained knapsack problem. More specifically, we are interested in classes of valid inequalities which are facet-defining for the precedence constrained knapsack polytope. We study the complexity of obtaining these facets using the standard sequential lifting procedure. Applying this procedure requires solving a combinatorial problem. For valid inequalities arising from minimal induced covers, we identify a class of lifting coefficients for which this problem can be solved in polynomial time, by using a supermodular function, and for which the values of the lifting coefficients have a combinatorial interpretation. For the remaining lifting coefficients it is shown that this optimization problem is strongly NP-hard. The same lifting procedure can be applied to (1,k)-configurations, although in this case, the same combinatorial interpretation no longer applies. We also consider K-covers, to which the same procedure need not apply in general. We show that facets of the polytope can still be generated using a similar lifting technique. For tree knapsack problems, we observe that all lifting coefficients can be obtained in polynomial time. Computational experiments indicate that these facets significantly strengthen the LP-relaxation.

Notes: Summary Flavonoids are polyphenolic compounds that occur ubiquitously in foods of plant origin. Their proposed protective role in tumor development may prevail especially in the intestinal tract due to direct exposure of intestinal epithelia to these dietary ingredients. We have screened more than 30 flavonoids for their effects on cell proliferation and potential cytotoxicity in the human colon cancer cell lines Caco-2, displaying features of small intestinal epithelial cells, and HT-29, resembling colonic crypt cells. In addition, for selected compounds we assessed whether they induce apoptosis by determining caspase-3 activation. Studies on the dose dependent effects of the flavonoids showed antiproliferative activity of all compounds with EC50 values ranging between 39.7 ± 2.3 μM (baicalein) and 203.6 ± 15.5 μM (diosmin). In almost all cases, growth inhibition by the flavonoids occured in the absence of cytotoxicity. There was no obvious structure-activity relationship in the antiproliferative effects either on basis of the subclasses (i.e., isoflavones, flavones, flavonols, flavanones) or with respect to kind or position of substituents within a class. In a subset of experiments we examined the antiproliferative activities of the most potent compound of each flavonoid subgroup in addition in LLC-PK1, a renal tubular cell line, and the human breast cancer cell line MCF-7. Out of four flavonols tested, three displayed almost equal antiproliferative activities in all cell lines but fisetin was less potent in MCF-7 cells. The flavanones bavachinin and flavanone inhibited growth of Caco-2 and HT-29 cells with lower EC50 values than that obtained in LLC-PK1 and MCF-7 cells. The lower susceptibility of LLC-PK1 and MCF-7 cells towards growth arrest was even more pronounced in the case of the flavone baicalein. Half maximal growth-inhibition in LLC-PK1 and MCF-7 required 2.5 and 6.6 fold higher concentrations than that needed in the intestinal cell lines. The flavonoids failed to affect apoptosis in LLC-PK1 and MCF-7, whereas baicalein and myricetin were able to induce apoptosis in HT-29 and Caco-2 cells. In conclusion, flavonoids of the flavone, flavonol, flavanone, and isoflavone classes possess antiproliferative effects in different cancer cell lines. The capability of flavonoids for growth inhibition and induction of apoptosis can not be predicted on the basis of their chemical composition and structure.

Notes: Abstract Variations in total energy intake and composition of daily food play an important role in the regulation of metabolic processes and so, in the control of body weight. This study was designed in order to investigate the effect of a high-fat diet on lipolysis in isolated adipocytes. For this purpose, fourteen Wistar rats were divided into two groups and fed either a standard-fat diet or a high-fat diet ad libitum for 7 weeks. Adipocytes were prepared from fat pads by collagenase digestion and incubated in vitro in the absence or presence of various lipolytic agents. Lipolysis was measured by the release of glycerol into the medium during 90 min of incubation. We observed that a high amount of fat in the diet induced an enlargement of adipose tissue, which was accompanied by a reduction of β-adrenergic agonist-induced lipolysis, that could be due to a loss of β1 and β3-adrenoceptor number or to alterations of their coupling to adenylate-cyclase through the guanine nucleotide regulatory protein. New data about regional differences were provided by comparing two adipose locations (subcutaneous and visceral).

Notes: Summary Background: Flavonoids are polyphenolic antioxidants occuring in vegetables and fruits as well as beverages such as tea and wine which have been thought to influence oxidative damage. Aim of the study: We wanted to verify whether a complex mixture of wine tannins (wine complex polyphenols and tannins, WCPT) prevent chemically-induced oxidative DNA damage in vivo. Methods: Oxidative DNA damage was evaluated by measuring the ratio of 8-hydroxy-2'-deoxyguanosine (80HdG)/ 2-deoxyguanosine (2dG) × 10−6 in hydrolyzed DNA using HPLC coupled with electrochemical and UV detectors. Results: We treated rats with WCPT (57 mg/kg p.o.) for 14 d, a dose 10-fold higher than what a moderate wine drinker would be exposed to. WCPT administration significantly reduced the ratio of 80HdG/2dG × 10−6 in liver DNA obtained from rats treated with 2-nitropropane (2NP) relative to controls administered 2NP only (33.3 ± 2.5 vs. 44.9 ± 3.2 × 10−6 2dG; μ± SE; p〈0.05). On the contrary, pretreatment with WCPT for 10 d did not protect the colon mucosa from oxidative DNA damage induced by 1,2-dimethylhydrazine (DMH). 2NP and DMH are hepatic and colon carcinogens, respectively, capable of inducing oxidative DNA damage. Conclusions: WCPT have protective action against some types of chemically-induced oxidative DNA damage in vivo.

Notes: Summary Anthocyanins are common colored plant flavonoids, occurring as glycosides of the respective anthocyanidin-chromophores. Like other flavonoids, anthocyanidins are also expected to have antioxidative and antimutagenic properties in vivo, although only few data are available. To gain more knowledge on possible protective mechanisms in mammalian cells, we have compared their extracellular and intracellular antioxidative potential in vitro and in human colon tumor cells. We used Aronia melanocarpa Elliot anthocyanin (AA) concentrates, fractions thereof, concentrates from Elderberry, Macqui, and Tintorera fruits, as well as pure compounds. In vitro, antioxidative properties of the samples were studied with the ferric reducing ability assay (FRA assay). As a measure of intracellular oxidative/antioxidative effects, H2O2-induced strand breaks as well as oxidized DNA bases were determined in human tumor HT29 clone 19A cells using a microgelelectrophoresis assay (comet test). Major results were that isolated compounds (aglycons and glycosides) and complex plant samples are powerful antioxidants in vitro. In fact their activities by far exceeded those of Trolox and vitamin C in the FRA assay. Also H2O2-induced DNA strand breaks were reduced in cells treated with the complex plant extracts. In contrast, endogenous generation of oxidized DNA bases was not prevented. In summary, the intracellular steady state of oxidized DNA bases is not altered by anthocyanins or anthocyanidins. This findings raises questions with respect to the cancer preventive potential of anthocyanidins within specific tissues, such as the colon. Extracellularly, however, the compounds are potent antioxidants. This points to their potential for providing systemic protection in vivo, e.g., by scavenging oxidants in the blood stream and in the colon. Notably, both aglycons and glycosides have equally strong antioxidant activity.

Notes: Summary Background Estrone is a relatively abundant hormone widely distributed in tissues of animal and plant origin. It is a mild estrogen that induces increases in body weigt in experimental animals. The relative abundance of estrone esters in animal tissues suggests that it may also be found in foods, from which it may alter the mechanisms of body weight control. Aim of the study To measure the total estrone content in food and to determine whether this may affect body weight. Methods In the first part of the study, a method was devised for the measurement of total estrone content in food. This was applied to the analysis of estrone content in a variety of food. Finally, hyperlipidic diets (18.6 MJ/kg) with a total estrone content 0.89 ± 0.21 μmol/kg (control group) and 1.37 ± 0.13 μmol/kg (laced with estrone fatty esters) were given to rats during 15 days, in order to determine the influence of dietary estrone on the body mass. Zucker lean (Fa/?) rats weighting initially 200–215 g were used. The total estrone (essentially as fatty esters) content of food was investigated by combining a dried methanol extraction with saponification and measurement of the free estrone evolved through radioimmunoassay. Result The content of estrone was zero in some vegetables, but significant in fruits, meats, and especially fats, both of plant and animal origin. The application of these analyses to a standard recommended diet for humans may result in intakes of more than 1 μmol of estrone per day, a figure comparable to the estrogen production by women. When rats were exposed to a raised estrone content in a fat-rich diet, they significantly increased their body weights, doubling their rate off growth (1.99 g/day) compared with controls (0.81 g/day), but maintaining their plasma composition and the proportions of lipid, water, and protein in their carcasses. Conclusion The widely distributed estrone esters in food and their relatively high concentrations may result in high free hormone intakes in humans. The continued and massive intake of estrone may enhance tissue deposition and lead to obesity.

Notes: Summary Background: Plant fats and oils are major sources of mono- and polyunsaturated fatty acids as well as vitamin E, the major fat-soluble antioxidants in human nutrition. Dietary antioxidants are expected to reduce cancer risk by minimizing DNA damage. Aim of the study: To compare the effects of γ-tocopherol rich corn oil and the mixture of the α-tocopherol rich olive/sunflower oil on plasma concentration of tocopherols and on the frequency of sister chromatid exchange (SCE), an indicator of DNA damage. Methods: This study had a double-blind, cross-over design and was conducted in 20 normal healthy non-smoking males aged 19–31 years. Design included a 2-week adjustment period and two 2-week test periods in which diets containing 30% energy as fat including either 80 g of corn oil (CO) (20 mg α-tocopherol, 100 mg γtocopherol) or 80 g of olive/sunflower oil (OSO) (24 mg α-tocopherol, 2.4 mg γ-tocopherol) as the main fat-source, were given. Blood samples for analysis of SCE rate and content of tocopherols were collected at the beginning (T0), after adjustment (T1) and after the test period (T2) in intervals of 2 weeks. Results: After two weeks of the corn oil diet, the plasma concentration of γ-tocopherol increased but α-tocopherol decreased significantly compared to the olive/sunflower oil diet. The concentration of α-tocopherol increased (CO: 22.99 ± 1.11 vs. OSO: 24.40 ± 1.49 μmol/l) and that of γ-tocopherol decreased (CO: 4.19 ± 0.29 vs. OSO: 2.99 ± 0.25 μmol/l) after the olive/sunflower oil diet. Intake of the corn oil diet was associated with reduced SCE rate and intensity, whereas there was no change in SCE after the olive/sunflower oil diet (CO: 7.66 ± 0.25 vs. OSO: 8.06 ± 0.47 mean SCE/cell). Conclusions: The combination of γ-tocopherol with α-tocopherol in corn oil diet despite the lower α-tocopherol equivalents/diene acid equivalents ratio achieved better protection against DNA damage than α-tocopherol alone in the olive/sunflower oil diet.

Notes: Summary Many new substances are currently being investigated for their usefulness in the pharmacotherapy of obesity. Most drugs interfere with monoamine neurotransmitter (serotonin, noradrenalin, dopamine and histamine) effects and act as an appetite suppressant. Other approaches are to primarily increase thermogenesis (e.g. β3-adrenoceptor agonists), or to decrease fat absorption by inhibiting the pancreatic lipase (orlistat). New promising agents are substances that increase the effect of corticotropin releasing factor (CRF) or urocortin in the brain (CRF-binding protein ligand inhibitor) and a neuropeptide Y (NPY) Y5 receptor antagonist. The clinical relevance of leptin in the therapy of obesity is probably limited, but can not be fully evaluated at the moment. As obesity has a multifactorial basis, all these substances have in common the fact that they can not cure obesity. They should only be used as an adjunct to classical strategies like diet and exercise in severe obesity. For developing new, perhaps even more specific pharmacological agents, further research is needed to understand the individually different genetic and physiological basis of obesity.

Notes: Summary Aim of the study: The present study was conducted to investigate changes in the plasma concentration of carotenoids and carotenoid oxidation products, vitamin A, α- and γ-tocopherol, and ubiquinone-10 during a dietary intervention trial with 23 male healthy volunteers. Method: A two week carotenoid depletion period was followed by a daily consumption of 330 mL tomato juice (40 mg lycopene), then by 330 mL carrot juice (15.7 mg α-carotene and 22.3 mg β-carotene), and then by a 10 g spinach powder preparation (11.3 mg lutein and 3.1 mg β-carotene) served with main meals for two weeks, respectively. Blood samples were collected in the morning after an overnight fasting and carotenoids, vitamin A, tocopherols, and ubichinone were analyzed by reversed-phase HPLC. Results: During the tomato juice intervention, plasma concentrations of trans- and cis-lycopene increased 2-fold compared to the depletion period. Lycopene oxidation products could be demonstrated in plasma and were significantly elevated compared to control (p〈0.001). After two weeks of carrot juice consumption, α-carotene and β-carotene concentrations increased 8.6- and 3.2-fold, respectively. Finally, during the spinach consumption period the lutein concentration increased 2-fold, while the β-carotene concentrations were still elevated 2-fold. Conclusions: The moderate change in dietary habits, e.g., the consumption of 330 mL of carotenoid-rich vegetable juices caused significant changes in the plasma carotenoid concentrations, indicating a high bioavailability of carotenoids from the processed vegetable products. The changes in plasma carotenoid concentrations reflected the carotenoid composition of the consumed foods. However, particularly during the tomato juice intervention period the occurrence of lycopene oxidation products and cis-lycopene isomers in plasma was eminent. The formation may be due to antioxidant reactions of lycopene in the organism.

Notes: Summary In this review a broad overview of historical and current methods for the assessment of iron bioavailability was given. These methods can be divided into iron solubility studies, iron absorption studies, endpoint measures, and arithmetic models. The pros and cons of all methods were discussed. First, studies on in vitro and in vivo iron solubility have been described. The disadvantages of iron solubility include the impossibility of measuring absorption or incorporation of iron. Furthermore, only the solubility of nonheme iron, and not heme iron, can be studied. Second, we focused on iron absorption studies (either with the use of native iron, radioiron or stable iron isotopes), in which balance techniques, whole-body counting or postabsorption plasma iron measurements can be applied. In vitro determination of iron absorption using intestinal loops or cell lines, was also discussed in this part. As far as absorption studies using animals, duodenal loops, gut sacs or Caco-2 cells were concerned, the difficulty of extrapolating the results to the human situation seemed to be the major drawback. Chemical balance in man has been a good, but laborious and expensive, way to study iron absorption. Whole-body counting has the disadvantage of causing radiation exposure and it is based on a single meal. The measurement of plasma iron response did not seem to be of great value in determining nutritional iron bioavailability. The next part dealt with endpoint measures. According to the definition of iron bioavailability, these methods gave the best figure for it. In animals, the hemoglobin-repletion bioassay was most often used, whereas most studies in humans monitored the fate of radioisotopes or stable isotopes of iron in blood. Repletion bioassays using rats or other animals were of limited use because the accuracy of extrapolation to man is unknown. The use of the rat as a model for iron bioavailability seemed to be empirically based, and there were many reasons to consider the rat as an obsolete model in this respect. The double-isotope technique was probably the best predictor of iron bioavailability in humans. Disadvantages of this method are the single meal basis and the exposure to radiation (as far as radioisotopes were used). Finally, some arithmetic models were described. These models were based on data from iron bioavailability studies and could predict the bioavailability of iron from a meal.

Notes: Summary Background: Oleoyl-estrone elicits powerful slimming effects on lean and obese rats, sparing protein, lowering appetite and maintaining energy expenditure. Leptin synthesis is markedly reduced by oleoyl-estrone. However, this effect is not observed in the obese Zucker fa/fa rats; these rats do not fully respond to leptin but they lose fat under oleoyl-estrone treatment. Aim of the study: To determine the role of leptin in the conversion of estrone to fatty-acyl estrone in white adipose tissue both in vivo in Zucker lean and obese rats, and in vitro. Methods: Two series of experiments were performed: a) Growth and differentiation of 3T3L1 preadipocytes into adipocytes followed by incubation with tritium-labeled estrone in the medium in the presence / absence of 1 nM leptin, and estimation of the incorporation of label into estrone and estrone ester fractions of cell extracts. b) Zucker lean (Fa/?) [ZL] and obese (fa/fa) [ZO] rats were injected i.v. with carrier-free oleoyl-estrone in chylomicra-sized liposomes, then euthanized after 10 min. Free and esterified estrone were measured in blood, liver, muscle, skin, white adipose tissue (WAT), and brown adipose tissue(BAT). Results: In the first study, in a 72-h incubation, adipocytes took up 20-27% of the medium estrone. In the leptin(−) controls, 47% of the label in the cell fraction was in the form of estrone esters and 45% as free estrone; in the leptin (+) cells, 71% of the label was in the estrone ester fraction and 24% was free estrone. In the second study, a large part of the injected tritium-label remained in the ZO blood, with only a small part remaining in ZL. In ZL 39% of the label was found in the tissues in the form of free estrone, and in ZO only 22%; in both cases about half of it was in WAT. Plasma free estrone levels were 0.3±0.1 nM in ZL and 0.5±0.3 nM in ZO, and esterified estrone was 242±99 nM for ZL and 201±29 nM for ZO. Plasma leptin levels were 1.73±0.16 ng/ml in ZL and 61.0±1.4 ng/ml in ZO. Conclusion: The presence of an intact leptin pathway is critical for the uptake and synthesis of estrone esters as well as for the plasma acyl-estrone turnover. The presented results show a direct relationship between oleoyl-estrone and leptin in the WAT. A fully functional leptin pathway is needed for the synthesis of acyl-estrone and the removal of free estrone from the bloodstream, as well as for the disposal of excess circulating oleoyl-estrone. This has a direct bearing on human and animal obesity, since estrone induces increases in fat deposition.

Notes: Summary Background: Phytoestrogens are a major component of Asian diets and may be protective against certain hormone-dependent cancers (breast and prostate) and coronary heart disease. They may also have antioxidant function in scavenging potentially harmful free radicals and thus decreasing oxidative attack on DNA. Aims of the study: A pilot study to determine the effects of a phytoestrogen supplement, in the form of soy milk, on plasma LDL and HDL cholesterol levels and DNA damage in men. Methods: Ten healthy men participated in the study and were assigned to one of three groups consuming 1 litre of either soy milk, rice dream (vegetable protein control) or semi-skimmed cow's milk (animal protein control) each day for 4 weeks. Results: The soy supplement caused significant increases in plasma genistein and daidzein concentrations despite considerable interindividual variation (P〈0.001). Supplementation with soy resulted in a decrease in oxidative damage to DNA bases detected using the comet assay compared with controls (P〈0.05). However, there was no significant effect of the soy supplement on plasma cholesterol or triglyceride levels in comparison with control groups. Conclusions: A 4 week soy milk supplementation in healthy volunteers does not alter serum cholesterol levels but can have a protective effect against oxidative DNA damage in lymphocytes.

Notes: Summary Background: Green tea contains polyphenolic catechins which can act as antioxidants and thus decrease the risk for cardiovascular diseases. Aim of the study: To investigate whether green tea extract differs from placebo in its effects on markers of antioxidant status, lipid peroxidation, nitric oxide production, thromboxane production, and blood coagulation during a controlled high linoleic acid diet in healthy subjects. Methods: Twenty healthy non-smoking females (23–50 years) participated in a 4-week controlled intervention study. The experimental diet was rich in linoleic acid (9 en%) and contained fat, protein and carbohydrates: 27, 14, and 59 en%, respectively. In addition, the subjects ingested encapsulated green tea extract (3 g/d) or placebo mixture in a double-blind manner. Fasting blood samples and five 24-hour urines were collected before and at the end of the 4-week experimental period. Same samples were received from 10 control subjects. Results: Green tea extract significantly decreased plasma malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration in comparison with the placebo treatment. The treatments did not differ in serum lipids, indicators of antioxidant status, urinary 8-iso-prostaglandin F2α, 2,3-dinor-thromboxane B2, nitric oxide metabolites or coagulation indicators. Conclusions: We conclude that an amount of green tea extract which corresponds to 10 cups of tea per day for 4 weeks does not have specific effects on several indicators related to risk of cardiovascular diseases in comparison with placebo treatment. The relatively small but significant decrease in lipid peroxidation indicated by decreased plasma MDA was not associated with changes in markers of oxidative stress (urinary 8-iso-prostaglandin F2α and blood oxidized glutathione) or hemostasis.

Notes: Summary Background: Tissue 10:4(n-6) and 22:6(n-3) status have been correlated with neonatal development and growth. Artificial formulas for neonates have been supplemented with long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCP) from animal and marine sources which may enhance sensitivity of cellular membranes to oxidative damage. Diet-derived antioxidants like vitamin E play a key role in the protection of tissue lipids against oxidation. Aim of the study: We seek to determine the influence of dietary vitamin E on tissue sensitivity to oxidative stress in rats fed for 4 weeks on diets enriched in (n-3) and (n-6) long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids. Methods: Weanling rats received 10% fat diets that provided 18:1(n-9), 18:2(n-6) and 18:3(n-3) in a similar ratio to that of rat milk (group A), supplemented with fish oil (groups B and B+E) and supplemented with (n-6) and (n-3) LCP from an animal phospholipid concentrate (groups C and C+E). Vitamin E (500 mg vitamin E/kg fat) was added to diets B+E and C+E. Tissue fatty acid content and the activities of catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione transferase und glutathione peroxidase in liver and brain were measured. Glutathione status, vitamin E and the production of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARs) after incubation of erythrocyte, liver and brain lipids with inducers of enzymatic or non-enzymatic lipid peroxidation was measured. Results: Group B registered significantly lower total superoxide dismutase acitvity than group B+. Catalase activity was significantly higher in group C than in group C+E. Hepatic total and reduced glutathione levels were decreased in vitamin E supplemented groups compared to unsupplemented ones. TBARs production in erythrocyte lipids was significantly higher in groups B and C compared to vitamin E supplemented groups B+E and C+E. Conclusions: This study shows that the addition of vitamin E protected erythrocyte and liver microsome lipids enriched in (n-3) and (n-6) LCP from lipid peroxidation during the postnatal development of rats. The protection was more effectively in group C+E than in group B+E.

Notes: Summary An intervention study by documented dietary counselling was carried out in a sample of 9 children and adolescents (12–,15 years) living in a full-time institution in Dortmund. Three weighed dietary records were collected over 3–7 days, one before and one after each of two individual nutrition counselling sessions, which were based on the recommended intake of food groups defined by the Optimized Mixed Diet (OMD), a quantitative preventive dietary conception for children and adolescents. As univariate dietary parameters (e.g., cholesterol intake), which are often used to show the effectiveness of nutrition counselling, do not take into account the multivariate complexitiy of nutrition, we developed 3 multivariate scores to measure the effectiveness of nutrition counselling. The are definded as: Recommended Food group change Score (RFS): Average change in the amounts of the deviations (%) from the reference food groups values (OMD = 100 %) before and after counselling taking into account the aim (eat mor/less) of the counselling session, exclusively based on the food groups addressed during counselling. Total Food group change Score (TFS): Average change in the amounts of the deviations (%) from the reference food group values (OMD = 100 %) before and after counselling based on all food groups consumed. Nutrient Improvement Score (NIS): Average change in the negative deviations (%) of 8 vitamins and 8 minerals from the German reference values for nutrient intake (Deutsche Gesellschaft für Ernährung (DGE) = 100 %) before and after counselling. On average, the intakes of the food groups mentioned during the first counselling session improved considerably (RFS = +36 %), the change in the intake of all food groups was small (TFS = +6 %) and the nutrient intakes did not improve (NIS = 0 %). From the second counselling session the values of the RFS was +10 %, of the TFS was +6% and of the NIS +3 %. This means that the success of counselling on one dietary criterion does not guarantee success on others. Our food and nutrient based scores together with a detailed food intake assessment give an example of multivariate measurements of nutrition counselling outcomes.

Notes: Summary The hydrogen breath analysis test was performed in healthy Thai adults to determine lactitol tolerance. The study was conducted in 39 individuals (11 males and 28 females) aged 18–41 years. All volunteers agreed to participate in this study after the risks and benefits had been fully explained. Subjects were requested not to consume milk, milk products, or high-vegetable diets for a day and to fast from 10 p.m. of the day preceding the test day. After consumption on the test diet (12 and 20 g of lactose or lactitol, respectively, in 250 mL water), the subjects recorded the severity of symptoms for 24 hours. Breath samples were collected after fasting and after consumption of the test diet at 30 min intervals over the 7-hour study period. Breath samples were analyzed for hydrogen using gag chromatography. After consumption of 12 g lactose, the prevalence of lactose malabsorbers was established. The increment of a peak breath hydrogen level of ≥ 20 ppm above the baseline level was used as an indicator of lactose malabsorption. The lactose malabsorbers were further classified as lactose tolerants or lactose intolerants according to the gastrointestinal symptoms observed. All 39 healthy Thai adults could be classified into 3 groups as follows: 9 (23%) lactose absorbers (LA), 15 (38.5%) lactose malabsorber/tolerants (LMT) and 15 (38.5%) lactose malabsorber/intolerants (LMI). Using the hydrogen breath test, 67% of the subjects were identified as lactitol intolerants after the consumption of 12 g lactitol. The lactitol intolerants comprised 53.8% of LMI, 34.6% of LMT, and 11.5% of LA. Among all subjects, one third of LA (33%), two thirds of LMT (60%), and 93% of LMI were lactitol intolerant. In addition, gastrointestinal symptoms such as flatulence and abdominal pain were most pronounced in LMI. Diarrhea was also a prominent manifestation after consumption of 12 g lactitol. Therefore, it was finally decided that 20 g lactose or lactitol were not given to LMI because of the risk of gastrointestinal symptoms. After high doses (20 g) of lactose and lactitol consumption, most LMT developed more symptoms than did LA and the main symptom was diarrhea. Consumption of 20 g lactose resulted in fewer symptoms than 20 g lactitol in both LA and LMT. On the basis of the hydrogen breath test, most LA tolerated 12 g lactitol without gastrointestinal symptoms except some flatulence whereas most LMT and LMI did not. Twenty g lactitol was not tolerated by both LA and LMT because there was diarrhea among the subjects, especially in LMT. Although the hydrogen breath analysis test is the best method for identification of lactose malabsorption, it is not the best method to identify lactitol intolerance. A hydrogen concentration of 15 ppm above the baseline level was found to be the best cut-off point to indicate lactitol intolerance although sensitivity was 85% and specificity only 38% in this study. It was further concluded that there is a greater susceptibility to lactitol in human lactose malabsorbers than in lactose absorbers. Our findings might be relevant for the limited use of lactitol in Thailand.

Notes: Summary Background: Athletes consume arginine and/or aspartate as potential nutritional ergogenics. Their metabolic effects are controversial and there is some evidence that ingestion of large doses of single amino acids can adversely affect the nitrogen balance or induce an amino acid imbalance. Nevertheless, the general metabolic influence of an arginine aspartate supplementation during a prolonged exercise bout has not yet been investigated. Aim of the study: The aim of this study was, therefore, to investigate the general metabolic impact of a chronic supplementation with arginine aspartate in endurance-trained athletes at rest and during a marathon run. Methods: Fourteen endurance-trained runners participated in this field study which was carried out according to a double-blind crossover design. 15 g of arginine aspartate or a carbohydrate-based placebo were supplemented daily for 14 days before a marathon run. Blood samples for analysis of metabolites and hormones were collected shortly before the run, after 31 km, at the end of the run, and after a recovery period of two hours. Additionally, the respiratory exchange ratio was determined during the run. Results: The plasma level of carbohydrate (glucose, lactate, pyruvate) and fat metabolites (fatty acids, glycerol, β-hydroxybutyrate), cortisol, insulin, ammonia, lactate dehydrogenase, and creatine kinase as well as the respiratory exchange ratio were unaffected by the supplementation. In contrast, the plasma level of somatotropic hormone, glucagon, urea, and arginine were significantly increased, and the level of most of the remaining plasma amino acids as well as their sun was significantly reduced. Conclusions: There was no obvious metabolic benefit derived from the chronic supplementation with arginine aspartate. And since furthermore the consequences of a reduction of the total plasma amino acid level are not known, the practice of using single amino acid supplements as potential ergogenics should be critically reevaluated.

Notes: Summary Background: Conjugated linoleic acids (CLA)# refer to a group of linoleic acid (18:2)-derived isomers with conjugated double bonds mostly at carbon atoms 9 and 11 or 10 and 12, and with all possible cis and trans combinations. CLA is a newly recognized nutrient that functions to regulate energy retention and metabolism and that causes a serum lipoprotein profile considered to be less atherogenic. However, rodent models that have been frequently used for these studies are only of limited use because of distinct differences in physiology, compared with man. Additionally, possible differences in food intake between the experimental groups remained often unconsidered in those studies. Thus, it can not be excluded that the beneficial effects of CLA reported in a series of studies may be due, at least partially, to differences in nutrient and energy ingested. Aim of the study: This prompted us to undertake an investigation on the action of CLA by using a pig model and a feeding regimen with controlled amounts of food and antioxidants. The parameters used to assess CLA-specific action were selected hormones and metabolites involved in energy metabolism, individual lipoproteins and the appearance of CLA in fasting serum and erythrocyte membranes. Blood as an easily available biological sample was used for investigation. Methods: For that purpose 16 adult female pigs were divided into two groups of 8 each, and were isoenergetically fed diets containing 0 (control diet) or 1% level of CLA (by weight) for 6 weeks. Plasma concentrations of total and free thyroxine (T4), total and free triiodothyronine (T3), and insulin were measured by radioimmunoassays. Plasma non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA), β-hydroxybutyrate, circulating blood ATP and other clinical chemical variables were determined using enzymatic assays. The concentration of α-tocopherol was determined by high perfomrance liquid chromatography. The lipoproteins VLDL (density 〈1.019 kg/L), LDL (density 1.019 – 1.063 kg/L), and HDL (density 〉1.063 kg/L) were isolated by step-wise ultracentrifugation. Fatty acids of the dietary oils, serum and blood cell membranes were separated and quantified by gas chromatography. Results: At week 6, body weights of the pigs fed the CLA-supplemented diet were not different from that of the controls. CLA-treated pigs exhibited a 37% higher concentration of fasting serum insulin than their controls receiving no CLA (P = 0.11). Circulating free and total T4 and T3 as well as serum levels of β-hydroxybutyrate, α-tocopherol, protein, glucose, urea, creatinine and circulating blood ATP remained unaffected by CLA supplementation. Serum concentrations of non-esterified fatty acids were reduced by 38% in CLA-treated pigs relative to the controls, although this difference was not significant. CLA-treated pigs tended to have lower leukocyte counts in blood than their controls (P 〈0.1). Erythrocyte and platelet counts, the hematocrit and hemoglobin concentration were similar between the groups. Serum of CLA-treated pigs showed a trend toward increased levels of triacylglycerols, cholesterol and phosphatidylcholine in the very low density and low density lipoproteins (LDL), without distinct changes in the high density lipoprotein fraction (HDL). The LDL cholesterol to HDL cholesterol ratio was significantly increased by CLA. When pigs were fed CLA at a dietary level of 1%, limited proportions of CLA appeared in fasting serum (1.6%) and erythrocyte membranes (1.1%). Conclusions: Under the present experimental conditions there appeared to be parallels between the effects of CLA and the reported effects of trans fatty acids in the mode of action on lipoproteins and insulin. The failure to demonstrate significant beneficial effects of CLA on the lipoprotein profile which have been observed in other studies requires further research.

Notes: Abstract As societies become increasingly technologised, the need for careful and critical assessment rises. However, attempts to assess or normatively evaluate technological development invariably meet with an antinomy: both structurally and historically, technologies display multistable possibilities regarding uses, effects, side effects and other outcomes. Philosophers, usually expected to play applied ethics roles, often come to the scene after these effects are known. But others who participate at the research and development stages find even more difficulties with prognosis. Recent work on ‘revenge’ effects (Tenner) and negative side effects (Kevles) are examined, as well as several cases of philosophers in ‘R&D’ roles. After sketching the antinomy,I outline a heuristic pragmatics of prognosis that addresses this quandary.

Notes: Abstract This article explores the relationship between experts and non-experts by examining of the SSC issue. The SSC, or Superconducting Supers Collider, was a large particle accelerator proposed in the early 1980s in the USA and cancelled in 1993. The SSC is generally talked about as a quintessential big science or megascience project. These big science projects inevitably need to be supported not only by government and industries but also by researchers who belong to other research fields or disciplines. High-energy physicists are experts within high-energy physics, but they are non-experts in other disciplines. The Japanese decision-making process of the SSC project clearly represents these interactions between experts and non-experts.

Notes: Abstract Current processes linking different parts of the world together economically and culturally are referred to asglobalisation. Though this term has gained immense popularity within a short time, critics have argued that it is hard to find empirical evidence that the world is becoming ‘one’. A crucial question is thenhow to look for such evidence. In many studies of globalisation, the general view taken is that of ‘global’, meaning that one searches for a global overview, or outlook, which is situated at no specific place. The present paper argues for a shift of focus, reasoning that to understand what is global we have to start with the local. The experiences of the global take place in particular local places, and to study such processes of change we need to situate our study in such a way that we can study the relationships between the local and the global. The particular place where our study takes place is rural Malaysia. Changes related to industrialisation are often spoken of in rather deterministic terms, in the sense that the local population are ‘victims’ of a global shift, whereas we argue for an alternative approach, analysing women workers as agents of change within their local community. Globalisation also mainly refers to external forces imposed on local actors, whereas we find the local to be imperative for the strategies of industrialists, as well as for the present processes of change.

Notes: Abstract Notwithstanding the notion of progress, the social and environmental record of our age poses serious doubts for the present and the future. Technology, being the mainspring of progress, may be seen, accordingly, as the master of history more than the servant of society. In line with this view, a case can be made to strengthen the value of technology and to weaken the deterministic character of history. To do so, the paper canvasses the use of artificial markets designed to improve compliance of technology with environmental or social standards. The emerging interest in following this path poses a radical departure from the traditional policy approach to technology assessment. The traditional approach may be described asex ante, relying on cost-benefit analysis to anticipate the welfare effects of technology, combining this analysis with bureaucratic management based on command and control. Cost-benefit analysis, however, is piecemeal and shortsighted and, in a dynamic and synergistic world, can be considered of limited value to ensure longer-term goals. On the other hand, artificial markets operateex post and on the basis of ambient standards. As such, they constitute an artificial device that does not require discretion and a predictive capacity that social science cannot offer. Nonetheless, and given political will, this new approach offers the potential to ensure efficient and sustainable outcomes under conditions of uncertainty.

Notes: Abstract In this article we look at the conceptions computing professionals have of the future. We studied these conceptions by analysing 31 essays on the future published in theCommunications of the ACM. We found the future was envisioned from three different perspectives: in addition to a technology centred perspective the authors also used human centred and society centred perspectives, but region centred and organisation centred perspectives were missing. I assume the visions of these individuals of future technology represent the culture of the computing field as they are published in one of the top computer science journals.

Notes: Abstract Science and technology development is increasingly driven by the requirements of a globalising world economy. Information and communication technologies both support this globalisation process, and provide opportunities to participate in it. However, the process of development is not uniform. Within nation states and within regions there is considerable inequity in the scale and pace of development. Successful science and technology policies require an understanding of location within a global production network and of local capabilities. This paper explores the prospects for such policies in the context of North East Asia.

Notes: Abstract In man-machine communication, there is a relationship between what may be described as tacit (human) and explicit (machine) knowledge. The tacit lies in practice and the explicit in the formulation of the processes and content of this practice. However, when a human communicates with another human face to face, we may describe them as communicating aspects of the tacit and explicit dimension of their knowledge, i.e. the expression and its background of meaning for the particular situation. When this is unsuccessful in being communicated, some mediator (not necessarily a third person) is needed to provide the bridge for the particular discrepant aspects of the tacit and explicit dimensions to meet. This is achieved by making the tacit nature of the discrepancy in the communication explicit to both participants such that they both understand the background to their discrepancy. Once they become aware, it is possible for them to begin to resolve it. In considering what has been termed here the ‘cultural interface’, i.e. communication across cultures, the paper will explore the nature of discrepancies in communication and the means by which we can accommodate to each other's differences, either via third party help or between ourselves. The interaction of each person's tacit (background of practices) and their interpretation, set against this background, of the explicit (the utterance, silence, gesture) needs to find some mutual ground, involving their cultural self. The operation of mediation and negotiation will be considered in this context.

Notes: Abstract This paper considers the impact of the AI R&D programme on human society and the individual human being on the assumption that a full realisation of the engineering objective of AI, namely, construction of human-level, domain-independent intelligent entities, is possible. Our assumption is essentially identical tothe maximum progress scenario of the Office of Technology Assessment, US Congress. Specifically, the first section introduces some of the significant issues on the relational nexus among work, education and the human-machine boundary. In particular, based on a Russellian conception of rationality I briefly argue that we need to change our related conceptions of work, employment and free time, through a new human-centred education. On the human-machine boundary problem, I make a couple of tentative suggestions and put forward some crucial open questions. Section two discusses the impact of the emerging machine intelligence on human nature both as modification of its self-image, keeping human nature itself unchanged, and its potential for altering human nature itself. I briefly argue that: (i) in a certain context, the question of the supremacy or uniqueness of human intelligence loses much, if not all, of its ‘weight’; and (ii) appearance of Robot-X species would immortalise the human spirit.

Notes: Abstract The past decade has seen the development of a perspective holding that technology is socially constructed. This paper examines the social construction of one group of technologies: systems for computer-supported cooperative work (CSCW). It describes the design of CSCW in Japan, with particular attention to the influence of culture on the design process. Two case studies are presented to illustrate the argument that culture is an important factor in technology design, despite commonly held assumptions about the neutrality and objectivity of science and technology. The paper further argues that, by looking at CSCW systems as texts which reflect the context of their production and the society from which they come, we may be better able to understand the transformations that operate when these texts are ‘read’ in the contexts of their implementation.

Notes: Abstract This article discusses ways to operationalise the concept of culturally appropriate computer-mediated communication, utilising information systems (IS) development methodologies and adopting a postmodern and postcolonial perspective. By way of illustration, it describes progress on the participative development of the Ieramugadu Cultural Information System. This project is designed to develop and evaluate innovative procedures for elicitation, analysis, storage and communication of indigenous cultural heritage information. It is investigating culturally appropriate IS design techniques, multimedia approaches and ways to ensure protection of secret/sacred information. Ethical issues are foregrounded.

Notes: Abstract My considerations are organised into four sections. The first section provides a survey of some significant developments that determine contemporary philosophical discussion on the subject of ‘time’. In the second section, I show how the question of time and the issue of media are linked with one another in the views of two influential contemporary philosophers: Jacques Derrida and Richard Rorty. Finally, in the third section, the temporal implications of cultural practices which are developing in the new medium of the Internet are analysed and, in the fourth section, related to the central theses of Derrida and Rorty.

Notes: Abstract The Social Construction of Technology (SCOT) theory offers a useful conceptual framework for examining the social and cultural factors that may contribute to or detract from the successful integration of computer technology into educational environments. This theory, which grew out of studies in the history of technology and the sociology of science, suggests methods for studying the phenomenon of technological development, such as identifying the relevant social groups involved in the development process and the factors that either leave the technology in a state of interpretive flexibility or bring the interpretation of the technology to closure. This paper uses a SCOT approach to explore how personal and institutional beliefs can shape the ways in which technologies are used by teachers and students, and to identify the social, epistemological, cognitive and motivational factors that need to be considered as computer technology becomes an integral part of the educational experience.

Notes: Abstract This is a programmatic proposal about a better use of the notion ofscientific rationality in the sociology of scientific knowledge (SSK). Strangely enough, some relativistic authors in the SSK literature allow room for scientific rationality in their analyses of scientific practice. I interpret their arguments as follows: since science is essentially a collective activity, any rationality developed and sustained in science should have someinstitutional basis analysable in sociological terms. I advocate that sociologists should explain such scientific rationality, especially the asymmetry between science and nonscience, in sociological terms. In some sense, my programme is ‘even stronger’ than Bloor's ‘strong programme’.

Notes: Abstract The current viewpoint on technology seems to derive from the optimistic idea of the existence of pre-established harmony that any technological progress leads to people's health, and welfare. But history has shown us that this is not always the case, and that we must select the proper direction which leads to health and welfare. For that purpose, this article presents the viewpoint of technology as a kind of human care service, along with the lessons from nursing theories. Five leading nursing theories are introduced as well as their implications for technology. ‘The nursing model of technology’ is then presented.

Notes: Abstract This paper deals with the different meanings given to the concept of virtual organisation. A typology developed by Campbell, consisting of four forms of virtual organisation, is presented. We illustrate this categorisation with practical examples. We will explain why we use the term virtual organising rather than virtual organisation. Our conclusion is that organisations planning to go virtual have to make technological and organisational decisions that are intertwined at a strategic level, resulting in a specific sociotechnical configuration of virtual organising.

Notes: Abstract In this paper some aspects of the stereotyping of China and Japan are explored by using a sample of articles from a Swedish business magazine. The main objective is to show how stereotypes are adapted to capture new developments in economy and technology. During the years of high hopes for the largest Asian economies, stereotypes proved to be far from timeless and unchanging. Also a large number of metaphors were used to express perceived similarities between East and West, further undermining tradi-tional Western understanding of Asia as inert and eternally different. The recent decline of Japan put an end to this, creating a return to a vocabulary of cultural characterisations and explanations.

Notes: Abstract The objective of this work is to analyse technology and social relationships using the concept of knowledge. Therefore technology is not only a means to produce and social relationships a means to interact, but also the result of a whole of elements. The concept of knowledge aims to analyse these elements both from a structural point of view, highlighting their characteristics, and from a dynamic point of view, which considers how subjects interpret and make sense of them. In this framework technologies and social relationships are reinterpreted according to knowledge that characterises each context, suggesting some clues to design technologies, information technologies and social policies.

Notes: Abstract This article is based on the writer's participant observations of multidisciplinary Nordic-Japanese discussions in August 1997 and October 1998 concerning the cultural acceptance of the new information and communication technologies (NICT) in Japan, China and the Nordic countries. Concepts and theoretical ideas from the sociology of technology and science are applied. The main question is how to frame sociologically a study on the local differences in attitudes toward and the adoption of NICT. The main results are: (1) NICT products are carriers of metaphoric meanings of society and the individual; (2) the image of the information society attached to the computer is less attractive than the metaphoric contents carried by the mobile phone; (3) the mobile phone is more persuasively independent from cultural differences, because of its independence from the cultural differences, the mobile phone is more attractive to the majority of consumers. Its metaphoric reference unlike the computers, is non-verbal and therefore unanalysable and for the same reason also more capable of being freely constructed locally and individually.

Notes: Abstract. In the present work the effect of several bis(guanylhydrazones) on the growth of Helianthus tuberosus tuber explants was studied. Different aliphatic congeners of glyoxal bis(guanylhydrazone) were tested. Most of the compounds displayed an inhibitory effect on growth, and a correlation between the structure of the molecule and the inhibitory activity was observed. Experiments carried out with glyoxal bis(guanylhydrazone) and its congeners methyl-, ethylmethyl-, and methylpropylglyoxal bis(guanylhydrazones) show that as the total number of side chain carbon atoms in the molecule increases, the inhibitory potency also increases. A depletion of spermidine levels was also found in the explants treated with ethylmethylglyoxal bis(guanylhydrazone), which turned out to be one of the most potent growth inhibitors. The addition of spermidine caused a significant reversion of the antiproliferative action of glyoxal bis(guanylhydrazone). The effect of these compounds on spermidine uptake in protoplasts isolated from carrot phloem parenchyma was also investigated. Only a slight competition was found when antagonists were present at concentrations 20 times higher than the polyamine, thus suggesting that bis(guanylhydrazones) do not share, at least at low concentrations, the polyamine transport system in plant cells.

Notes: Abstract. The effect of polyamines (putrescine, spermidine, and spermine) was examined for growth and production of two coumarins, esculetin and esculin, in the hairy roots of chicory (Cichorium intybus L. cv. Lucknow local). Of the polyamines administered, 1.5 mm putrescine alone resulted in a 2.3-fold higher increase in the growth of hairy roots as well as in the production of esculetin and esculin, which was 3.37 times more than that of the control on day 21. The endogenous level of conjugated putrescine was more than fivefold that of free putrescine levels in untreated samples. The production of esculetin and esculin in hairy root cultures strictly correlated with growth in all of the treatments. Putrescine at 1.5 mm resulted in a greater length of primary root (18.29 ± 1.37 cm) compared with the control (10.96 ± 0.82 cm) and more secondary and tertiary roots. This study also provides insight into the morphogenetic changes that occur in roots in response to the external supply of polyamines.

Notes: Abstract. Changes in acid and alkaline phosphatase activities in cytoplasmic and wall-bound fractions of developing mustard (Brassica juncea) seed were studied. Growth was measured by seed dry weight and water content. Seed dry weight data were fitted to a cubic polynomial equation. Seed water content and dry matter accumulation was significantly correlated. Cytoplasmic acid and alkaline phosphatase activities were substantially less in the cytoplasmic fraction than the wall-bound fraction. Wall-bound acid phosphatase activity was low initially, but high levels were maintained after day 25, indicating a relationship with dry matter accumulation. The results suggest that acid phosphatase plays an important role during mustard seed development.

Notes: Abstract. Incubation of oat coleoptile segments with 40 μm indoleacetic acid (IAA) induced a decrease of 35–60% in peroxidase activity at the cell wall compartment. Treatment with IAA also produced a similar decrease in the oxidation of NADH and IAA at the cell wall. Isoelectric focusing of ionic, covalent, and intercellular wall peroxidase fractions showed that acidic isoforms (pI 4.0–5.5) were reduced preferentially by IAA treatment. Marked differences were found between acidic and basic wall isoperoxidases in relation to their efficacy in the oxidation of IAA. A peroxidase fraction containing acidic isoforms oxidized IAA with a V max/s0.5 value of 2.4 × 10−2 min−1· g fw−1, 4.0 times higher than that obtained for basic peroxidase isoforms (0.6 × 10−2 min−1· g fw−1). In contrast, basic isoforms were more efficient than acidic isoperoxidases in the oxidation of coniferyl alcohol or ferulic acid with H2O2 (5.6 and 2.1 times, respectively). The levels of diferulate and lignin in the walls of oat coleoptile segments were not altered by treatment with IAA. The decrease in cell wall peroxidase activity by IAA was related more to reduced oxidative degradation of the hormone than to covalent cell wall cross-linking.

Notes: Abstract. The effect of brassinolide (BR) on cell growth and shikonin and its derivative formation in Onosma paniculatum cell culture was studied. BR addition with IAA and BAP (+BR/+IAA/+BAP) in B5 medium slightly increased the cell growth at 0.01–0.1 ppb concentration compared with a growth control (−BR/+IAA/+BAP). Only BR addition (+BR/−IAA/−BAP) at 0.001–100 ppb in B5 medium significantly increased the cell fresh weight compared with a growth control (−BR/−IAA/−BAP). The same concentration of BR tested at 0–1000 ppb increased the cell fresh weight of +IAA/+BAP significantly more than that of −IAA/−BAP. BR at 0.001–0.1 ppb with IAA and BAP added (+BR/+IAA/+BAP) in M9 medium increased shikonin and its derivative content markedly by 31–87%, compared with its control (−BR/+IAA/+BAP). BR at 0.001–1000 ppb without IAA and BAP added to M9 medium (+BR/−IAA/−BAP) also increased shikonin and its derivative content compared with its control (−BR/−IAA/−BAP). However, the amount of shikonin and derivative formed of +IAA/+BAP was greater than that of −IAA/−BAP only at the same concentration of BR at 0–1 ppb. These combined results show that BR at 0.01 ppb with IAA and BAP added was the best for cell growth and shikonin formation. Formation of shikonin and its derivative by adding BR at 0.01 ppb with IAA and BAP (+BR/+IAA/+BAP) in M9 medium was significantly enhanced 4 days after BR addition compared with a production control (−BR/+IAA/+BAP). In contrast, +BR/−IAA/−BAP vs. −BR/−IAA/−BAP was not as effective as +BR/+IAA/+BAP vs. −BR/+IAA/+BAP for the shikonin formation. The time course study for shikonin formation also showed that +BR/+IAA/+BAP and −BP/+IAA/+BAP only slightly increased cell growth in M9 medium. Similarly, soluble protein content in the cells treated by BR at 0.01 ppb with IAA and BAP (+BR/+IAA/+BAP) exceeded that of the control (−BR/+IAA/+BAP) 4 days after BR addition. And +BR/−IAA/−BAP only slightly increased the soluble protein content over that of −BR/−IAA/−BAP.

Notes: Abstract. The gibberellins A1, A3, A5, A8, A19, A20, and A29 were identified in vegetative shoot tips of Rosa canina by comparing their mass spectra and Kovats retention indices with those of standards. Most wild roses have a short flowering season of 2–4 weeks in spring, whereas most modern cultivars flower recurrently. `Félicité et Perpétue' is a short-season hybrid from a cross between a wild rose and a recurrent-flowering rose, whereas its sport, `Little White Pet,' flowers recurrently. The concentrations of gibberellins (GAs) were measured in shoot apices of both cultivars. In March (before floral initiation in spring) the concentrations of GA1 and GA3 were respectively threefold and twofold higher in `Félicité et Perpétue' than in `Little White Pet.' In April (after floral initiation) the concentrations of both gibberellins were substantially greater than in March, and concentrations of GA1 and GA3 were, respectively, 17-fold and 12-fold greater in `Félicité et Perpétue' than in `Little White Pet.' It is postulated that, in `Félicité et Perpétue,' floral initiation occurs when concentrations of GAs are low and is inhibited when concentrations of GAs are high, whereas in `Little White Pet' concentrations of GAs remain at permissive levels throughout the growing season. Applications of GA1 and GA3 to axillary shoots in March inhibited floral development in `Félicité et Perpétue' but not in `Little White Pet.' This suggests that the combined concentration of exogenous and endogenous gibberellins might have been raised to inhibitory levels in the former but not in the latter cultivar.

Notes: Abstract. The effect of methyl jasmonate (MJ) on changes of oxygen-scavenging enzyme activities and membrane lipid composition was studied in strawberry leaves under water stress. Under water stress, MJ treatment reduced the increase of peroxidase (EC 1.11.1.7; POD) activity, maintained higher catalase (EC 1.11.1.6; CAT) and superoxide dismutase (EC 1.15.1.1; SOD) activities, and ascorbic acid content. In addition, MJ treatment reduced transpiration and membrane-lipid peroxidation as expressed by malondialdehyde (MDA) content, lessened the reduction of membrane lipids, glycolipids [monogalactosyl diglyceride (MGDG), digalactosyl diglyceride (DGDG)], and phospholipids [phosphatidylcholine (PC), phosphatidylethanolamine (PE), phosphatidylglycerol (PG), and phosphatidylinositol (PI)]. In water-deficit conditions, MJ treatment also alleviated the decline in the degree of fatty acid unsaturation and the ratio of linolenic (18:3) to linoleic acid (18:2). These results indicate that MJ treatment appears to alter the metabolism of strawberry plants rendering the tissue better able to withstand water stress.

Notes: Abstract. Under the same mannitol pretreatment and culture conditions, regeneration efficiency in the barley cultivar (cv.) Igri was about 10 times higher than in the cv. Digger, a difference only partially reflected by a difference in viable microspores after anther pretreatment. Therefore, a comparative study between cvs. Igri and Digger was carried out under various pretreatment conditions. For both cultivars, under water, CPW buffer and mannitol pretreatment conditions, there was a positive correlation between microspore viability and regeneration efficiency in that mannitol 〉 CPW buffer 〉〉 water. Mannitol pretreatment of cv. Igri produced a much higher endogenous abscisic acid (ABA) level than as to Digger. Addition of ABA stimulated both percentages of viability and regeneration efficiency except in the case of mannitol pretreatment. Under CPW buffer pretreatment conditions, addition of ABA significantly stimulated regeneration efficiency and was ABA concentration dependent. However, cv. Digger was less responsive to ABA than cv. Igri. In both cultivars, under less optimal pretreatment conditions (e.g., water and CPW buffer), the effect of ABA was to stimulate increased percentages of viability and/or to reduce the number of binucleate microspores. Moreover, in cv. Igri, direct culture of anthers for 4 days without pretreatment caused an increased number of binucleate microspores compared with microspores with pretreatment for 4 days. These binucleate microspores showed DNA degradation in the nuclei. However, with mannitol pretreatment binucleate microspores and DNA fragmentation in the nuclei of microspores was rarely observed. On the basis of our observations, we suggest that the difference in regeneration efficiency in cv. Igri and cv. Digger is related to the differences in endogenous ABA production levels under mannitol pretreatment and responsiveness to ABA. One of the effects of ABA is likely due to an inhibition of cell death.

Notes: Abstract. In young plants of Salix pentandra, a temperate zone deciduous woody species, elongation growth ceases and a terminal bud is formed at day lengths shorter than a critical length. This is the first step in dormancy development, making survival under harsh winter conditions possible. Early studies strongly indicate that gibberellin is involved in the photoperiodic control of bud set and bud break. GA1 action was studied by application under short days to plants where cessation of shoot elongation had occurred, followed by subsequent anatomic investigations of shoot tips. Under short days the frequency of cell division decreased rapidly along with the earlier observed decrease in GA1 levels. Application of GA1 to short-day–induced terminal buds rapidly stimulated cell division in apices several days before visible shoot elongation in response to this treatment was observed. One day after GA1 application a fourfold increase in cell division frequency in apices was observed, increasing to a maximum of sevenfold 2 days after application. Long-day treatment leading to induction of bud break after about 4–6 days was followed by slowly increasing frequency of cell divisions. In earlier studies of this species, short days and gibberellins had no effect on cell elongation. These data show that increased GA1 content, by application or long-day treatment, results in increased frequency of mitosis. This strongly indicates that GA1 affects stem elongation in connection with bud set and bud break primarily by affecting cell divisions in subapical tissues.

Notes: Abstract. 3H-IAA transport in excised sections of carnation cuttings was studied by using two receiver systems for recovery of transported radioactivity: agar blocks (A) and wells containing a buffer solution (B). When receivers were periodically renewed, transport continued for up to 8 h and ceased before 24 h. If receivers were not renewed, IAA transport decreased drastically due to immobilization in the base of the sections. TIBA was as effective as NPA in inhibiting the basipetal transport irrespective of the application site (the basal or the apical side of sections). The polarity of IAA transport was determined by measuring the polar ratio (basipetal/acropetal) and the inhibition caused by TIBA or NPA. The polar ratio varied with receiver, whereas the inhibition by TIBA or NPA was similar. Distribution of immobilized radioactivity along the sections after a transport period of 24 h showed that the application of TIBA to the apical side or NPA to the basal side of sections, increased the radioactivity in zones further from the application site, which agrees with a basipetal and acropetal movement of TIBA and NPA, respectively. The existence of a slow acropetal movement of the inhibitor was confirmed by using 3H-NPA. From the results obtained, a methodological approach is proposed to measure the variations in polar auxin transport. This method was used to investigate whether the variations in rooting observed during the cold storage of cuttings might be related to changes in polar auxin transport. As the storage period increased, a decrease in intensity and polarity of auxin transport occurred, which was accompanied by a delay in the formation and growth of adventitious roots, confirming the involvement of polar auxin transport in supplying the auxin for rooting.

Notes: The strategy for obtaining global convergence is based on the trust region approach. The merit function is a type of augmented Lagrangian. A new updating scheme is introduced for the penalty parameter, by means of which monotone increase is not necessary. Global convergence results are proved and numerical experiments are presented.

Notes: , they differ from the Legendre-Clebsch condition. They give information about the Hesse matrix of the integrand at not only inactive points but also active points. On the other hand, since the inequality state constraints can be regarded as an infinite number of inequality constraints, they sometimes form an envelope. According to a general theory [9], one has to take the envelope into consideration when one consider second-order necessary optimality conditions for an abstract optimization problem with a generalized inequality constraint. However, we show that we do not need to take it into account when we consider Legendre-type conditions. Finally, we show that any inequality state constraint forms envelopes except two trivial cases. We prove it by presenting an envelope in a visible form.

Notes: In order to unify these approaches, here we describe a two-phase greedy algorithm working on a slight extension of lattice polyhedra. This framework includes the rooted node-connectivity augmentation problem, as well, and hence the resulting algorithm, when appropriately specialized, finds a minimum cost of new edges whose addition to a digraph increases its rooted connectivity by one. The only known algorithm for this problem used submodular flows. Actually, the specialized algorithm solves an extension of the rooted edge-connectivity and node-connectivity augmentation problem.

Notes: 1 ,E2,..., such that ⋃i≤τEi optmially increases the connectivity by τ, for any integer τ. The main result of the paper is that this sequence of edge sets can be divided into O(n) groups such that within one group, all Ei are basically the same. Using this result, we improve on the running time of edge connectivity augmentation, as well as we give the first parallel (RNC) augmentation algorithm. We also present new efficient subroutines for finding the so-called extreme sets and the cactus representation of min-cuts required in our algorithms. Augmenting the connectivity of hypergraphs with ordinary edges is known to be structurally harder than that of ordinary graphs. In a weaker version when one exceptional hyperedge is allowed in the augmenting edge set, we derive similar results as for ordinary graphs.

Notes: Abstract. The paper presents an interior embedding of nonlinear optimization problems. This embedding satisfies a sufficient condition for the success of pathfollowing algorithms with jumps being applied to one-parametric optimization problems.¶The one-parametric problem obtained by the embedding is supposed to be regular in the sense of Jongen, Jonker and Twilt. This asumption is analyzed, and its genericity is proved in the space of the original optimization problems.

Notes: n such that x≥0,  F(x,u)-v≥0 , and F(x,u)-v T·x=0 where these are vector inequalities. We characterize the local upper Lipschitz continuity of the (possibly set-valued) solution mapping which assigns solutions x to each parameter pair (v,u). We also characterize when this solution mapping is locally a single-valued Lipschitzian mapping (so solutions exist, are unique, and depend Lipschitz continuously on the parameters). These characterizations are automatically sufficient conditions for the more general (and usual) case where v=0. Finally, we study the differentiability properties of the solution mapping in both the single-valued and set-valued cases, in particular obtaining a new characterization of B-differentiability in the single-valued case, along with a formula for the B-derivative. Though these results cover a broad range of stability properties, they are all derived from similar fundamental principles of variational analysis.

Notes: Abstract. We present a construction which gives deterministic upper bounds for stochastic programs in which the randomness appears on the right–hand–side and has a multivariate Gaussian distribution. Computation of these bounds requires the solution of only as many linear programs as the problem has variables.

Notes: Abstract. We present a branch-and-cut algorithm to solve capacitated network design problems. Given a capacitated network and point-to-point traffic demands, the objective is to install more capacity on the edges of the network and route traffic simultaneously, so that the overall cost is minimized. We study a mixed-integer programming formulation of the problem and identify some new facet defining inequalities. These inequalities, together with other known combinatorial and mixed-integer rounding inequalities, are used as cutting planes. To choose the branching variable, we use a new rule called “knapsack branching”. We also report on our computational experience using real-life data.

Notes: Abstract. The strong conical hull intersection property and bounded linear regularity are properties of a collection of finitely many closed convex intersecting sets in Euclidean space. These fundamental notions occur in various branches of convex optimization (constrained approximation, convex feasibility problems, linear inequalities, for instance). It is shown that the standard constraint qualification from convex analysis implies bounded linear regularity, which in turn yields the strong conical hull intersection property. Jameson’s duality for two cones, which relates bounded linear regularity to property (G), is re-derived and refined. For polyhedral cones, a statement dual to Hoffman’s error bound result is obtained. A sharpening of a result on error bounds for convex inequalities by Auslender and Crouzeix is presented. Finally, for two subspaces, property (G) is quantified by the angle between the subspaces.

Notes: Abstract. We extend an interesting theorem of Yuan [12] for two quadratic forms to three matrices. Let C 1, C 2, C 3 be three symmetric matrices in ℜ n×n , if max{x T C 1 x,x T C 2 x,x T C 3 x}≥0 for all x∈ℜ n , it is proved that there exist t i ≥0 (i=1,2,3) such that ∑ i=1 3 t i =1 and ∑ i=1 3 t i C i has at most one negative eigenvalue.

Notes: Abstract. The variational inequality problem (VIP) can be reformulated as an unconstrained minimization problem through the D-gap function. It is proved that the D-gap function has bounded level sets for the strongly monotone VIP. A hybrid Newton-type method is proposed for minimizing the D-gap function. Under some conditions, it is shown that the algorithm is globally convergent and locally quadratically convergent.

Notes: Abstract. Lagrangean dualization and subgradient optimization techniques are frequently used within the field of computational optimization for finding approximate solutions to large, structured optimization problems. The dual subgradient scheme does not automatically produce primal feasible solutions; there is an abundance of techniques for computing such solutions (via penalty functions, tangential approximation schemes, or the solution of auxiliary primal programs), all of which require a fair amount of computational effort. We consider a subgradient optimization scheme applied to a Lagrangean dual formulation of a convex program, and construct, at minor cost, an ergodic sequence of subproblem solutions which converges to the primal solution set. Numerical experiments performed on a traffic equilibrium assignment problem under road pricing show that the computation of the ergodic sequence results in a considerable improvement in the quality of the primal solutions obtained, compared to those generated in the basic subgradient scheme.

Notes: Abstract. We generalize the disjunctive approach of Balas, Ceria, and Cornuéjols [2] and devevlop a branch-and-cut method for solving 0-1 convex programming problems. We show that cuts can be generated by solving a single convex program. We show how to construct regions similar to those of Sherali and Adams [20] and Lovász and Schrijver [12] for the convex case. Finally, we give some preliminary computational results for our method.

Notes: Abstract. A class of affine-scaling interior-point methods for bound constrained optimization problems is introduced which are locally q–superlinear or q–quadratic convergent. It is assumed that the strong second order sufficient optimality conditions at the solution are satisfied, but strict complementarity is not required. The methods are modifications of the affine-scaling interior-point Newton methods introduced by T. F. Coleman and Y. Li (Math. Programming, 67, 189–224, 1994). There are two modifications. One is a modification of the scaling matrix, the other one is the use of a projection of the step to maintain strict feasibility rather than a simple scaling of the step. A comprehensive local convergence analysis is given. A simple example is presented to illustrate the pitfalls of the original approach by Coleman and Li in the degenerate case and to demonstrate the performance of the fast converging modifications developed in this paper.

Notes: Abstract. Given a finite number of closed convex sets whose algebraic representation is known, we study the problem of finding the minimum of a convex function on the closure of the convex hull of the union of those sets. We derive an algebraic characterization of the feasible region in a higher-dimensional space and propose a solution procedure akin to the interior-point approach for convex programming.