Traf4 (Tumor necrosis factor Receptor Associated Factor 4) is a member of the tumor necrosis factor receptor (TNFR) - associated factors (TRAFs) family. TRAF4 is overexpressed in tumor cells such as breast cancer and associated with cytoskeleton and membrane fraction. Interestingly, TRAF4 was localized with tight junctions (TJs) proteins including OCLN and TJP1 in mammary epithelial cells. However, the expression patterns and biological function of Traf4 were not examined in preimplantation mouse embryos although Traf4-deficient mouse showed embryonic lethality or various dramatic malformation. In this study, we examined the temporal and spatial expression patterns of mouse Traf4 during preimplantation development by qRT-PCR and immunostaining, and its biological function by using siRNA injection. We found upregulation of Traf4 from the 8-cell stage onwards and apical region of cell – cell contact sites at morula and blastocyst embryos. Moreover, Traf4 knockdown led to defective TJs without alteration of genes associated with TJ assembly but elevated p21 expression at the KD morula. Taken together, Traf4 is required for TJs assembly and cell proliferation during morula to blastocyst transition.

This paper is a study of the relationships between trade and transshipment in Korea. Through the analysis of the data collected, a comprehensive model has been developed to analyze and predict relationships between trade and transshipment. By using analyses of port and trade evolution in Asia, the model identifies some important results. An application of the model to forecast developments in selected regions in China is also included in this paper. The paper provides a basis for shipping companies to decide on appropriate transshipment port strategies, and provides important theoretical references for Korean ports' development Supported by Shanghai leading Academic Discipline Project, project Number: T0602.