bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The association between rates of wear in retrieved acetabular components and the radius of the femoral head
Authors: Hall R M , Siney P , Unsworth A , Wroblewski B M
Published: November 2002

Current evidence suggests that loosening of the acetabular socket is related to the volume of ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene wear debris generated at the articulating surfaces, through a process of bone resorption. Therefore it is important that the rate of volumetric wear is minimized in an attempt to extend the useful life of the procedure. Laboratory evidence indicates that a reduction in sliding distance would be beneficial in achieving this target and may be attained by a reduction in femoral head radius. To investigate the relationship between femoral head size and the rates of both volumetric wear and penetration, 200 acetabular components were retrieved at the time of revision surgery. The joints had femoral heads ranging in size from 11.1 to 19.8 mm radius. For those sockets that were loose at revision surgery, a significant correlation was observed between the rate of volumetric wear and the radius of the femoral head. For this cohort an increase in radius of 1 mm resulted in an increased rate of volumetric wear of 5.1 (SE 1.4) mm3/yr. However, the explained variance in the regression was low and exemplifies the multifactorial nature of the wear process. In particular, it is anticipated that the activity of the patient will have a significant effect on the rate at which the debris is produced. No significant correlation was observed between the rate of linear wear and femoral head radius. These results would indicate a benefit in using head sizes of a smaller radius, which generate debris at a reduced rate, and therefore require more time to accumulate large volumes of wear products.
Attenuation of previewable/unmeasurable disturbances acting on dynamic plants
Authors: Choi Chintae , Kim J S
Published: November 2002

An optimal preview controller based on the discrete-time H∞ control is presented. The preview and feedback controller are simultaneously designed to minimize the worst-case r. m.s. value of the regulated variables when the bounded unknown disturbances and the previewable disturbances hit the dynamic plants. The controller derivation procedure is analogous to the linear quadratic scheme. The discrete-time full-information H∞ controller needs state and disturbance signals. Thus, a state feedback controller and the related preview controller are derived in this design, even though problem formulation and solving an algebraic Riccati equation are based on the full-information controller design scheme.

As the infinity norm γ of the transfer function matrix tends to infinity, the preview gains obtained by the H∞ control method approach the gains obtained by the linear quadratic regulator optimization.
Unusual Conformational Isomer of 9,10-Dihydro-1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8-octapropylanthracene in Solid State
Authors: Kitamura Masanori , Gao Guohua , Nakajima Kiyohiko , Takahashi Tamotsu
Published: November 2002

The unusual conformational isomer 1b(2) of 9,10-dihydro-1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8-octapropylanthracene with three continuous propyl groups up was selectively prepared.
Novel Catalytic Performance of SnO2 for the Steam Reforming of Methanol
Authors: Neramittagapong Arthit , Hoshino Shun-ichi , Mori Tohru , Kubo Jun , Morikawa Yutaka
Published: November 2002

Steam reforming of methanol took place over SnO2 catalyst, not forming carbon monoxide appreciably. The reaction was suggested to proceed through the steam reforming of formaldehyde formed by the dehydrogenation of methanol.
Spillover and Migration of Alkoxy Groups Formed by Adsorption of Alcohols on Silica-supported Molybdenum Oxide
Authors: Seman M , Kondo J N , Domen K , Oyama S T
Published: November 2002

Alcohol adsorption on MoO3/SiO2 resulted in formation of two types of alkoxide, spectator and participant for selective oxidation, which exist on SiO2 consuming silanol groups through spillover and migration from MoO3 to SiO2 support.
A Co-reduction-carburization Route to Synthesize Nanocrystalline ZrC
Authors: Li Cun , Yang Xiaogang , Zhao Zhanying , Qian Yitai
Published: November 2002

Nanocrystalline zirconium carbide (ZrC) with the size of 10–25 nm was synthesized via a co-reduction-carburization process, in which ZrCl4 and CCl4 were used as zirconium source and carbon source, respectively, and metallic Na as reductant in an autoclave at 550 °C for 12 h. The samples were characterized by X-ray powder diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM).
Mg2+ Ion-exchange with the Li+ Ion in a Fast Li Ion-conducting Perovskite La0.55Li0.35TiO3
Authors: Inaguma Yoshiyuki , Okuyama Nozomi , Atsumi Yuri , Katsumata Tetsuhiro
Published: November 2002

Mg2+ ion-exchange with the Li+ ion in a fast Li ion-conducting perovskite La0.55Li0.35TiO3 was successful using MgCl2–KCl molten salt. The lattice parameter decreased as a result of the ion-exchange. These results suggest that the driving force of the ion-exchange reaction depends primarily on a decrease in the lattice energy, accompanied by the substitution of the smaller Mg2+ for the larger Li+ ion. A polycrystalline ion-exchanged sample was found to show considerable Mg2+-ion conductivity (4.1×10−6 S cm−1) at a lower temperature, 285 °C, than the synthesis temperature, 450 °C.
Visualization of the Precise Structure Recognition of Leaf-opening Substance by Using Biologically Inactive Probe Compounds: Fluorescence Studies of Nyctinasty in Legumes 2
Authors: Sugimoto Takanori , Yamamura Shosuke , Ueda Minoru
Published: November 2002

Intimate correlation between bioactivity and binding activity was shown using biologically active and inactive fluorescence-labeled probe compounds for nyctinasty. This results suggested the existence of a receptor which recognizes the aglycon of a leaf-opening substance on the motor cell.
Excited-state Structure of a Platinum Complex by X-ray Analysis
Authors: Yasuda Nobuhiro , Kanazawa Masaki , Uekusa Hidehiro , Ohashi Yuji
Published: November 2002

Irradiating a crystal of [N(C5H11)4]2[Pt2(H)2(pop)4], (pop = pyrophosphate), with a xenon lamp on a diffractometer, the intensity data were collected and the structure was analyzed by X-rays at low temperatures. The unit-cell volume and the Pt–Pt distance of the Pt anion became significantly smaller than the corresponding ones without irradiation. The Pt–Pt bond shortening is due to the formation of the excited molecules in the crystal, although the amount of the excited molecules may be about 5%.
Interaction Modes between N7-Quarternized Guanine and Cytosine-Containing Dipeptides
Authors: Asano Akiko , Minoura Katsuhiko , Ishida Toshimasa , Tarui Mariko , Doi Mitsunobu
Published: November 2002

7-Methyl-9-ethyl-guanine (7mG) was titrated by eleven cytosine-containing dipeptides (C-Xxx) monitoring the chemical shift of H8 proton. Amino acids incorporated to C-Xxx were related to the molecular ratio and association constant of the complex. In the Eadie-Hoffstee plots, the dipeptides of which side chains could form hydrogen bonds showed two phases. The highest association constant was observed for C-Asn, and its level was 20 times greater than that of C-Trp.
Novel Activity of TiO2 for Catalytic Conversion of CO and H2O to Alcohols in the Presence of K2CO3
Authors: Ji Dechun , Xu Longya , Liu Shenglin , Wang Qingxia
Published: November 2002

In the presence of K2CO3, TiO2 shows good catalytic activity and stability for the alcohols synthesis from CO and H2O. CO conversion of 7.6% and the STY of MeOH (about 24 mg g−1 h−1) and EtOH (about 8 mg g−1 h−1) are obtained under reaction conditions of T=573 K, P=0.5 MPa, CO flow rate of 30 ml min−1 and CO/H2O = 3/2 during the period of 12 h to 44 h time-on-stream.
Ramsay Hunt syndrome: pathophysiology of cochleovestibular symptoms
Authors: Kuhweide R. , Van de Steene V. , Vlaminck S. , Casselman J. W.
Published: November 2002

Ramsay Hunt’s hypothesis that herpes zoster oticus results from reactivation of the varicella zoster virus (VZV) in the geniculate ganglion is supported by the detection of viral genome in archival temporal bones of normals and Ramsay Hunt patients by the polymerase chain reaction. Ramsay Hunt syndrome is characterized by the presence of cochleovestibular symptoms in association with facial paralysis. VZV has also been demonstrated in the spiral and/or vestibular ganglion. Two cases are reported in which cochleovestibular symptoms outweighed the facial nerve symptoms, presumably representing VZV reactivation in the spiral and/or vestibular ganglion. From these observations and the known dormancy of VZV in non-neuronal satellite cells, it is argued that the cochleovestibular symptoms in Ramsay Hunt syndrome may result from VZV transmission across the nerves inside the internal auditory canal and that prompt treatment with an antiviral-corticosteroid combination might be justified in the management of any acute non-hydropic cochleovestibular syndrome.
Hyalinizing clear cell carcinoma of the base of the tongue
Authors: Balakrishnan R. , Nayak Dipak Ranjan , Pillai Suresh , Rao Lakshmi
Published: November 2002

Clear cell carcinoma of the salivary glands is a rare tumour that represents less than one per cent of all salivary tumours. They are divided into a biphasic, epithelial-myoepithelial carcinoma and a monophasic pattern which may be myoepithelial or ductal in origin. The latter is accompanied by prominent fibrohyaline stroma and has been described recently as hyalinizing clear cell carcinoma (HCCC).

Most of the HCCC occur in the oral cavity, and are associated with minor salivary glands, unlike the biphasic pattern which is more common in the major salivary glands. In the oral cavity, the commonest site is the palate followed by the lips and the buccal mucosa. Its occurrence in the oropharynx and the larynx is extremely rare.
Control of Shear Cutting Noise: Effectiveness of Passive Control Measures
Authors: Lai Joseph C. S. , Speakman Colin , Williamson Hugh M.
Published: November 2002

In an attempt to reduce noise from roll former shears three noise abatement enclosures of different designs and sheet dampers were assessed. Results indicate that only a noise reduction of 5dB can be achieved at the operator position by noise abatement enclosures, virtually independent of their designs and materials. This rather poor performance of enclosures is basically caused by structure-borne paths whereby vibrations are transmitted through the metal sheet product itself from the inside of the enclosure to the outside. Sheet dampers which have been designed to reduce the impact induced vibrations of the sheet product achieves a similar noise reduction as the enclosures but at about one quarter of the cost.
Psychiatric chrono‐epidemiology: its relevance for the study of aggression
Authors: Preti Antonio , Miotto Paola , De Coppi Monica , Petretto Donatella , Carmelo Masala
Published: November 2002

Chrono‐epidemiology is the study of the distribution of health events according to time. The time intervals taken into account have cyclic patterns and include circadian, weekly, seasonal, and circannual rhythms. In the behavioural field, chrono‐epidemiology can be and has been applied to studies concerning the causes of death (suicide and homicide), clinical events such as admissions to and contacts with mental healthcare services, and the seasonal distribution of crime involving the use of violence. Frequently reported findings include clear circadian and seasonal rhythms present in the phenomenon of suicide (rhythms more evident in the case of violent suicide); seasonal rhythms in the expression of aggression by patients hospitalised for mental illness; and a circannual recurrence of crimes with a violent component. The intrinsic circadian and seasonal rhythms of some neuronal systems, particularly those of serotonin, involved in the control of mood and impulses, are thought to favour the behavioural rhythms observed, although the contribution of socio‐environmental factors, such as the fluctuation of supportive networks according to time, is also acknowledged. By demonstrating non‐casual recurrence of certain behaviour and by exploring the socio‐biological basis of the rhythms beneath these recurrences, chrono‐epidemiology may offer important etiologic and preventive clues to the understanding of the biological and environmental correlates of aggressive behaviour. Aggr. Behav. 28:477–490, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Dose‐dependent pharmacokinetics and disposition of bisphosphonic prodrug of diclofenac based on osteotropic drug delivery system (ODDS)
Authors: Hirabayashi Hideki , Sawamoto Taiji , Fujisaki Jiro , Tokunaga Yuji , Kimura Sumihisa , Hata Takehisa
Published: November 2002

Rat pharmacokinetics and in vivo disposition of a novel bisphosphonic prodrug of diclofenac (DIC‐BP), synthesized with the aim of osteotropic delivery of diclofenac, were determined at whole body, organ and cellular levels in a dose range 0.32–10mg/kg. With an increase in injected dose, total body clearance was decreased while the distribution volume at steady state (Vdss) was reduced and plasma half‐life was prolonged. Over 50% of a dose of DIC‐BP was selectively transported into osseous tissues after intravenous injection into rats at doses up to 1mg/kg. As dose increased, the skeletal distribution decreased with hepatic and splenic accumulations increasing. The intrahepatic distribution at 10mg/kg revealed that liver macrophages play a significant role in hepatic uptake of DIC‐BP. This is consistent with general arguments that bisphosphonates themselves cannot distribute in soft tissues, but are taken up by the reticuloendothelial system as foreign substances when they form large complexes or aggregate with endogenous metals in plasma. Therefore, to optimize the osteotropic delivery of diclofenac via a bisphosphonic prodrug, the dosage regimen should be such that plasma concentration of DIC‐BP is maintained at a level lower than that required for precipitate formation of complexes, similar to the usage of other bisphosphonates. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Transporters involved in apical and basolateral uptake of ceftibuten into Caco‐2 cells
Authors: Menon Rajeev M. , Barr William H.
Published: November 2002

Ceftibuten uptake from the apical and basolateral side of Caco‐2 cells grown on transwells was studied. Uptake into the cells showed concentration dependent saturation. The apical transporter(s) showed a higher capacity and lower affinity for ceftibuten than the basolateral transporter(s). Uptake was inhibited in the presence of higher pH and in the presence of 2,4‐dinitro phenol (DNP). A proton gradient had a greater effect on the apical than on the basolateral transporter. Glycyl proline, a dipeptide transport system (PEPT1) substrate, inhibited ceftibuten uptake into Caco‐2 cells. Benzoic acid, a monocarboxylic acid (MCT) transporter substrate also exhibited a strong inhibition of ceftibuten uptake, but acetic acid had no effect. Adipic acid inhibited apical uptake of ceftibuten but had no effect on the basolateral uptake. None of the inhibitors had a significant effect on ceftibuten uptake in absence of a pH gradient. Addition of inhibitors in presence of DNP led to a greater decrease in ceftibuten uptake, when compared to the effect of DNP alone, indicating a facilitated diffusion process. These results indicate that ceftibuten uptake in Caco‐2 cells involve multiple transport pathways. Apical uptake is mediated by an energy dependent carrier‐mediated process and an energy independent facilitated diffusion process. The apical transport system is different from the basolateral transporter. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The effect of quercetin on renal ischemia and reperfusion injury in the rat
Authors: Inal Mine , Altinişik Mehmet , Bilgin Mehmet D.
Published: November 2002

Renal ischemia–reperfusion injury occurs in many clinical conditions such as hypovolemic shock, thromboembolism, injury and after renal transplantation. Under these conditions, ROS are considered to be the reason for cellular damage. Bioflavonoids have antioxidant and renoprotective properties. We studied the effect of quercetin, a bioflavonoid, on ischemia and reperfusion in rats. The rats (n = 28) were separated into three groups. Group I was the control group. Animals in groups II (IR) and III (IR + Q) underwent 30 min ischemia and 45 min reperfusion, respectively. Rats, in group III, also received 50 mg kg−1 quercetin before 45 min of reperfusion. The activities of SOD, CAT, GPx, and concentrations of GSH and GSSGR were determined in renal cortex and erythrocytes. Also, the levels of MDA in renal cortex and plasma, and XO in renal cortex were measured in these groups. The renal cortex XO levels in the IR group were higher than that of the control and IR+Q groups (p<0.001). The renal cortex and plasma MDA levels in the IR group were also found to be higher than the control and IR+Q groups (p<0.01, and p<0.001, respectively). However, a decrease in MAD level of the IR+Q group was found in renal cortex and erythrocytes. In addition, SOD, CAT, and GPx activities in renal cortex and erythrocytes of quercetin‐treated animals were enhanced compared to animals of the IR group. Furthermore, there were no significant differences in the SOD, CAT, and GPx activities of the control and IR+Q group. A reduction of GSH and GSSGR levels in IR and IR+Q groups was detected but no significant differences were found between these groups. This study stresses that high concentration of ROS leads to renal ischemia and reperfusion, and quercetin reduces the renal injury by preventing the oxidative stress dependent on ischemia and reperfusion. Quercetin may be used in renal transplantation as an antioxidant drug. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Incorporation of [1‐14C]‐linoleic acid by LLC‐WRC256 tumour cells
Authors: da Costa Marilena , Vecchia Marilene G. , Peres Carmem M. , Curi Rui
Published: November 2002

The incorporation of [14C]‐linoleic acid (LA) into total lipid fractions was higher in LLC‐WRC256 cells from the log phase of growth as compared to those of the plateau phase. LA was mainly incorporated into the phospholipid (PL) fraction of cells during the log phase, whereas in the plateau phase it was mostly taken into cholesterol ester. The proportion of radioactivity was higher in phosphatidylserine of cells from the log phase, whereas in the plateau phase it was higher in phosphatidylcholine. This feature of LA incorporation may be an important factor in determining the proliferative capacity of tumour cells. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of exogenous fatty acids and cholesterol on aminopeptidase activities in rat astroglia
Authors: Ramírez‐Expósito M. J. , García M. J. , Mayas M. D. , Ramírez M. , Martínez‐Martos J. M.
Published: November 2002

Several studies have addressed the interaction between fatty acids and lipids with central nervous system peptides. Because aminopeptidases (AP) are involved in the regulation of neuropeptides, this work studies several AP expressed in cultured astroglia, after exogenous addition of oleic and linoleic fatty acids and cholesterol to the culture medium. Alanyl‐AP, arginyl‐AP, cystyl‐AP, leucyl‐AP, tyrosyl‐AP and pyroglutamyl‐AP activities were analysed in whole cells using the corresponding aminoacyl‐β‐naphthylamides as substrates. Oleic acid inhibits alanyl‐AP, cystyl‐AP and leucyl‐AP activities, whereas linoleic acid inhibits alanyl‐AP, arginyl‐AP and tyrosyl‐AP activities. Neither oleic acid nor linoleic acid modifies pyroglutamyl‐AP activity. In contrast, cholesterol increases arginyl‐AP, cystyl‐AP, leucyl‐AP, tyrosyl‐AP and pyroglutamyl‐AP activities, although it does not modify alanyl‐AP activity. The changes reported here suggest that oleic and linoleic fatty acids and cholesterol can modulate peptide activities via their degradation route involving aminopeptidases; each of them being differentially regulated. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The regulation of mitochondrial physiology by organelle‐associated GTP‐binding proteins
Authors: Thomson Murray
Published: November 2002

Recent studies have shown that GTP‐binding proteins can modulate mitochondrial membrane fusion and fission. Furthermore, GTP‐binding proteins can regulate the binding of ribosomes to the mitochondrial membrane and may facilitate the import of proteins through contact points between inner and outer mitochondrial membranes. Mitochondrial GTP‐binding proteins therefore appear to have the potential to modulate physiological function of the organelle and may also be involved in cellular processes such as cellular transformation. A beginning has been made on the characterization of mitochondrial GTP‐binding proteins and the DNA sequence of one protein has become newly available. Future studies are needed to determine whether GTP‐binding proteins are interacting with cell signalling molecules such as protein kinases in the mitochondria. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of 4‐hydroxynonenal, a lipid peroxidation product, on exocytosis in HL‐60 cells
Authors: Maggiora Marina , Dianzani Mario Umberto , Rossi Maria Armida
Published: November 2002

Our work analysed the effect of 4‐hydroxynonenal (HNE), a chemotactic aldehydic end‐product of lipid peroxidation, on exocytosis in HL‐60 cells. We measured the release of β‐glucuronidase, an enzyme of azurophil granules, from the cells incubated at 37°C for 10 min in the presence of HNE concentrations ranging between 10−8 and 10−5 M. The release of lactate dehydrogenase was assayed to test cell viability. HNE (1 μM) was able to induce a significant and strong stimulation of β‐glucuronidase secretion without leading to cytotoxic effects. The finding that HNE could increase the exocytotic secretion from HL‐60 cells together with its known chemotactic property supports the hypothesis that this lipid peroxidation product may play an important role as a chemical mediator of inflammation; moreover it is noteworthy that micromolar concentrations of HNE have actually been found in exudates from acute and chronic inflammations. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of electromagnetic radiation from a cellular telephone on the oxidant and antioxidant levels in rabbits
Authors: Irmak M. Kemal , Fadıllıoğlu Ersin , Güleç Mukaddes , Erdoğan Hasan , Yağmurca Murat , Akyol Ömer
Published: November 2002

The number of reports on the effects induced by electromagnetic radiation (EMR) in various cellular systems is still increasing. Until now no satisfactory mechanism has been proposed to explain the biological effects of this radiation. Oxygen free radicals may play a role in mechanisms of adverse effects of EMR. This study was undertaken to investigate the influence of electromagnetic radiation of a digital GSM mobile telephone (900 MHz) on oxidant and antioxidant levels in rabbits. Adenosine deaminase, xanthine oxidase, catalase, myeloperoxidase, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase activities as well as nitric oxide (NO) and malondialdehyde levels were measured in sera and brains of EMR‐exposed and sham‐exposed rabbits. Serum SOD activity increased, and serum NO levels decreased in EMR‐exposed animals compared to the sham group. Other parameters were not changed in either group. This finding may indicate the possible role of increased oxidative stress in the pathophysiology of adverse effect of EMR. Decreased NO levels may also suggest a probable role of NO in the adverse effect. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of cod liver oil on tissue antioxidant pathways in normal and streptozotocin‐diabetic rats
Authors: Hünkar Tuğba , Aktan Fugen , Ceylan Aslı , Karasu Çimen
Published: November 2002

Lipid disorders and increased oxidative stress may exacerbate some complications of diabetes mellitus. Previous studies have implicated the beneficial effects of some antioxidants, omega‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in the protection of cells from the destructive effect of increased lipids and lipid peroxidation products. This study, therefore, was designed to investigate the effects of cod liver oil (CLO, Lysi Ltd. Island), which comprises mainly vitamin A, PUFAs, EPA and DHA. Effects were monitored on plasma lipids, lipid peroxidation products (MDA) and the activities of antioxidant enzymes, glutathione peroxidase (GSHPx) and catalase in heart, liver, kidney and lung of non‐diabetic control and streptozotocin (STZ)‐induced‐diabetic rats. Two days after STZ‐injection (55 mg kg−1 i.p.), non‐diabetic control and diabetic rats were divided randomly into two groups as untreated or treated with CLO (0.5 ml kg−1 rat per day) for 12 weeks. Plasma glucose, triacylglycerol and cholesterol concentrations were significantly elevated in 12‐week untreated‐diabetic animals; CLO treatment almost completely prevented these abnormalities in triacylglycerol and cholesterol, but hyperglycaemia was partially controlled. CLO also provided better weight gain in diabetic animals. In untreated diabetic rats, MDA markedly increased in aorta, heart and liver but was not significantly changed in kidney and lung. This was accompanied by a significant increase in both GSHPx and catalase enzyme activities in aorta, heart, and liver of diabetic rats. In kidney and lung, diabetes resulted in reduced catalase while GSHPx was significantly activated. In aorta, heart, and liver, diabetes‐induced changes in MDA were entirely prevented by CLO treatment. In the tissues of CLO‐treated diabetic animals, GSHPx activity paralleled those of control animals. CLO treatment also caused significant improvements in catalase activities in every tissue of diabetic rats, but failed to affect MDA and antioxidant activity in control animals. The current study suggests that the treatment of diabetic rats with CLO provides better control of glucose and lipid metabolism, allows recovery of normal growth rate, prevents oxidative/peroxidative stress and ameliorates endogenous antioxidant enzyme activities in various tissues. Because CLO contains a plethora of beneficial compounds together, its use for the management of diabetes‐induced complications may provide important advantages. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Dietary influence of selenium on the incidence of N‐nitrosodiethylamine‐induced hepatoma with reference to drug and glutathione metabolizing enzymes
Authors: Thirunavukkarasu C. , Prince Vijeya Singh J. , Thangavel M. , Selvendiran K. , Sakthisekaran D.
Published: November 2002

The dietary administration of selenium (sodium selenite; 4 p.p.m.) daily has been found to be highly effective in reducing the incidence of cancer induced by N‐nitrosodiethylamine (DEN) in Wistar strain rats. Selenium treatment either before initiation, during initiation and selection/phenobarbital promotion phases of hepatocarcinogenesis has been found to be effective in elevating hepatic microsomal cytochrome b5, NADPH‐cytochrome C reductase and cytosolic aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase activities to a statistically significant level measured either in the hyperplastic nodule or in the surrounding liver tissues compared to control animals. Moreover, selenium treatment throughout the study, decreases the cytosolic glutathione S‐transferase and microsomal UDP‐glucuronyl transferase activities by a significant degree when compared to control rats. Alterations in glutathione metabolizing enzyme activities (glutathione reductase, γ‐glutamyl transpeptidase, γ‐glutamylcysteine synthetase and glucose‐6‐phosphate dehydrogenase) were also observed in selenium‐treated groups. Our results confirm the fact that selenium is particularly protective in limiting the action of DEN during the initiation phase of hepatocarcinogenesis. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Oxidant/antioxidant status in blood of patients with malignant breast tumour and benign breast disease
Authors: Polat M. Fevzi , Taysi Seyithan , Gul Mustafa , Cikman Oztekin , Yilmaz Ismail , Bakan Ebubekir , Erdogan Fazli
Published: November 2002

The aim of this study was to investigate the alterations in lipid peroxidation and antioxidant enzyme defences in the blood of patients with malignant breast tumour and benign breast disease. Forty patients with malignant breast tumour, 20 patients with benign breast disease and also 20 healthy control subjects were recruited for the study. Malondialdehyde levels in plasma and erythrocytes, and the activities of erythrocyte CuZn‐superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase and glucose‐6‐phosphate dehydrogenase were measured. Malondialdehyde levels were higher in patients with both benign breast disease and malignant breast tumour compared with control subjects. The activities of all antioxidant enzymes were higher in patients with malignant breast tumour, while only glutathione peroxidase and CuZn‐superoxide dismutase activities were higher in patients with benign breast disease. Except for glucose‐6‐phosphate dehydrogenase, the antioxidant enzymes studied correlated positively with the malondialdehyde levels in patients with malignant breast tumour. On the other hand, only glucose‐6‐phosphate dehydrogenase activity was increased by the level of malignancy. The activity increases in erythrocyte antioxidant enzymes may be a compensatory upregulation in response to increased oxidative stress especially in patients with malignant breast tumour. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Interleukin‐18 enhances HIV‐1 production in a human chronically‐infected T cell line (H9‐V)
Authors: Pugliese Agostino , Gennero Luisa , Vidotto Valerio , Speranza Filippo , Tambini Roberto , Torre Donato
Published: November 2002

Interleukin‐18 (IL‐18) is a recently identified immunoregulatory cytokine expressed by activated macrophages, that induces production of interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ) and Th‐1 development. Recently some investigators reported controversial in vitro data on IL‐18 stimulation of HIV‐1 replication in several cell lines. In the present study the effect of IL‐18 on HIV replication in a human chronically HIV‐1‐infected lymphocytic T cell line (H9‐V) was investigated. HIV‐1 replication was determined by an immunoassay method in order to evaluate the content of p24 antigen in the cell culture supernatants. Stimulation of H9‐V cells with IL‐18 resulted in increased production of p24, especially at concentrations of 0.01 μg ml−1 and 0.10 μg ml−1. Moreover a significant and persistent IL‐18 stimulation of HIV‐1 replication was observed at a concentration of 0.01 μg ml−1 during a 7‐day period. Pre‐treatment of IL‐18 with a specific neutralizing monoclonal antibody significantly reduced HIV‐1 replication. These experiments show that IL‐18 promotes the increase of HIV‐1 replication in human chronically‐infected lymphocytic T cells and confirm the role of IL‐18 as a proimflammatory cytokine in stimulating and maintaining HIV‐1 replication during the course of the disease. In a successive set of experiments, since one of the main activities of IL‐18 is the induction of IFN‐γ, we evaluated the effect of this biological modifier on H9‐V cells. In particular, IFN‐γ shows a significant effect on cell replication and on reduction of CD4 and CD71 surface expression. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Chronic treatment with both lithium and sodium valproate may normalize phosphoinositol cycle activity in bipolar patients
Authors: Silverstone Peter H. , Wu Ren H. , O'Donnell Tina , Ulrich Michele , Asghar Sheila J. , Hanstock Christopher C.
Published: November 2002

Background

It has been proposed that lithium may be clinically effective due to its actions on the phosphoinositol second messenger system (PI‐cycle). Studies have also suggested that untreated manic patients may have raised myo‐inositol and phosphomonoester (PME) concentrations and also that unmedicated euthymic bipolar patients may have lowered PME concentrations. The objective of the present study was to test the hypothesis that chronic treatment with either lithium or sodium valproate in patients with bipolar mood disorder leads to a normalization in the activity of the PI‐cycle.

Methods

This study had two parts each with different MRS methodology. The first part compared healthy controls (n = 19) with euthymic bipolar patients who were taking either lithium (n = 16) or sodium valproate (n = 11) using both 1H‐MRS and 31P‐MRS. In the second part we examined a separate group of euthymic bipolar disorder patients taking sodium valproate (n = 9) and compared these with age and sex‐matched healthy controls (n = 11) using 1H‐MRS.

Results

Both studies showed that there were no differences in either myo‐inositol or phosphomonoester (PME) concentrations between controls and patients taking either medication.

Conclusions

These findings examine two key components of the PI‐cycle in treated euthymic bipolar (myo‐inositol and PME concentrations). The results from this study are consistent with the suggestion that chronic treatment with either lithium or sodium valproate in bipolar patients may normalize PI‐cycle functioning. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Combining high and low frequencies in rTMS antidepressive treatment: preliminary results
Authors: Conca Andreas , Di Pauli Jan , Beraus Wolfgang , Hausmann Armand , Peschina William , Schneider Hubert , König Peter , Hinterhuber Hartmann
Published: November 2002

The antidepressive potency of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) seems to depend on variables such as the stimulation placements, different frequencies, stimulus intensities, coil shape and interstimulus intervals. The aim of this pilot study was to investigate the augmentation properties of rTMS combining low and high frequencies. Thirty six depressed medicated in‐patients were recruited and assigned to three different rTMS treatment modalities as an add‐on strategy (each n = 12). In group 1 a stimulus intensity of 110% of the motor threshold (MT) was used with a frequency of 10 Hz over the left dorsolatero prefrontal cortex (DLPC). The right DLPC was stimulated in the same session with 110% MT at 1 Hz. In group 2 the patients were stimulated only over the left DLPC with alternating trains of 110% MT at 10 Hz and trains of 110% MT at 1 Hz in the same session. In group 3 the high frequency stimulation over the left DLPC was performed as an internal control group. None of the treatment modalities was superior but different side effects were observed. These preliminary findings suggest that rTMS, at varying frequencies and stimulation placements, evokes different psychoactive effects of clinical relevance. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Evidence for a relationship between daily caffeine consumption and accuracy of time estimation
Authors: McClellan Stine Michele , O'Connor Richard J. , Yatko Bonnie R. , Grunberg Neil E. , Cousino Klein Laura
Published: November 2002

The present study examined the relationship between regular caffeine consumption and time estimation. Sixty participants (aged 18–57 years, mean 24 years) completed a 47 s time estimation exercise and questionnaires related to daily caffeine consumption and perceptions of time. We hypothesized that the effects of caffeine on time estimation would follow a U‐shaped pattern such that individuals who reported moderate amounts of daily caffeine would be more accurate in their perceptions of time than would those who reported high amounts of caffeine intake or no daily caffeine consumption. Timing accuracy was computed by dividing participant‐reported time by actual time (47 s). Timing accuracy followed a U‐shaped curve such that those respondents who reported ‘low’ daily caffeine consumption (≤ 135 mg/day, n = 24) were the most accurate in their time estimates (mean= 44.2 s). Individuals who reported no caffeine (mean= 69.3 s; n= 7) or ‘high’ daily caffeine consumption (mean=56.2 s; >135 mg/day, n = 28) were less accurate in their time estimates [F(2, 56)= 3.34, p< 0.05]. Findings suggest that ‘low’ daily caffeine consumption may enhance time estimation accuracy above that of ‘high’ or no daily caffeine consumption. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Clinical and biochemical observations during treatment of depression with electroacupuncture: a pilot study
Authors: Pohl Annika , Nordin Conny
Published: November 2002

Six patients suffering from major depression were treated with electroacupuncture. During 4 weeks of treatment, the total CPRS‐S‐A score decreased from 23.8 to 13.4 (p=0.0095). A decrease of neuropeptide Y (NPY) in plasma during the first 2 weeks of treatment was noted in five of the patients, all being women (p=0.0431). The decrease was negatively correlated with age (rs=−0.29; p=0.046). The results are in line with a putative antidepressive effect of electroacupuncture, along with an influence on NPY in plasma. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of mirtazapine in patients with post‐traumatic stress disorder in Korea: a pilot study
Authors: Bahk Won‐Myong , Pae Chi‐Un , Tsoh Joshua , Chae Jeong‐Ho , Jun Tae‐Youn , Chul‐Lee  , Kim Kwang‐Soo
Published: November 2002

This study was aimed at testing the efficacy and tolerability of mirtazapine in the treatment of Korean patients with chronic post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Mirtazapine was administered for 8 weeks using a flexible‐dose regime in 15 Korean patients with PTSD based on the DSM‐IV criteria. We evaluated the patients at baseline and at weeks 4 and 8 after treatment with the interviewer‐administered structured interview for PTSD (SIP), short PTSD rating interview (SPRINT), impact of event scale‐revised (IES‐R) and the Montgomery Åsberg depression rating scale (MADRS). Scores on the SIP, SPRINT, IES‐R and MADRS had significantly reduced after 8 weeks treatment. In this pilot study, mirtazapine was found to be effective and well tolerated in the treatment of patients with PTSD. This calls for further evaluation of the effect of this drug on subjects with PTSD with randomized placebo‐controlled studies. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Quinacrine‐induced psychiatric disturbances in a child with common variable immunodeficiency and chronic giardiasis
Authors: Genel Ferah , Erermis Serpil , Aksu Guzide , Ozturk Can , Kutukculer Necil
Published: November 2002

Psychiatric disorders due to quinacrine for antiparasitic therapy represent an infrequent, but serious, complication. The remarkable course of a 12‐year‐old boy with common variable immunodeficiency who developed severe psychiatric reactions following quinacrine therapy for his resistant chronic giardiasis is presented. The broad clinical spectrum of quinacrine‐associated neuropsychiatric disturbances has been emphasized for the clinicians. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Poverty, policy, reciprocity and older people in the South
Authors: Gorman Mark , Heslop Amanda
Published: November 2002

The paper reviews the evidence from qualitative research into old age poverty and finds it is a significant problem in development countries. Old age poverty is multidimensional in that, in addition to low income, it reflects poor access to services and employment, as well as gender differentials extending into old age. The limitations of policy on ageing and poverty arise from underestimating the contribution of older people to the development process. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Characterization of secretory proteins from cultured cauda epididymal cells that significantly sustain bovine sperm motility in vitro
Authors: Reyes‐Moreno Carlos , Boilard Mathieu , Sullivan Robert , Sirard Marc‐Andre
Published: November 2002

Epididymis provides a safe environment in which stored‐spermatozoa could survive for days before ejaculation. In vitro studies suggested that epididymal proteins seem to be implicated in sperm survival during coincubation with cultured epididymal cells. This study was basically designed to confirm if secretory proteins from bovine epididymal cell cultures provide sperm protection against rapid loss of sperm motility in vitro. Bovine spermatozoa were incubated in conditioned media (CM), which were prepared from cultured cauda epididymal cell (CEC). Motion parameters were recorded using a computer‐assisted sperm analyzer. Sperm‐free protein extracts from CM were fractionated by ultrafiltration through a 10‐kDa cut off membrane. A significantly positive effect on sperm motility was observed when spermatozoa were incubated in CM (54 ± 4%) and CM >10 kDa (57 ± 4%) compared to CM <10‐kDa fraction (30 ± 3%) or fresh media (34 ± 3%), after a 6‐hr incubation period. This beneficial effect on sperm motility was abolished when the CM >10‐kDa fraction was heat‐treated at 100°C for 10 min. The CM >10 kDa fraction provides factors that remained active even though spermatozoa were washed twice after a 2‐hr preincubation period. To identify potential beneficial factors, bovine spermatozoa were incubated with radiolabeled proteins obtained using 35S‐methionine in culture medium. SDS–PAGE analysis of proteins extracted from CM‐preincubated spermatozoa revealed the presence of a 42‐kDa protein strongly associated to the sperm surface. This 42‐kDa spot was trypsin‐digested and identified by matrix‐assisted laser desorption ionization‐time of flight (MALDI‐TOF) as a protein homologue to a 35‐kDa bovine estrogen‐sulfotransferase. This protein can play a role in epididymal biology and sperm function. Taken together, these results suggest that specific epididymal proteins can be implicated in the sperm protection in vitro, and can be characterized in our cell culture system. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 63: 500–509, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Inhibitory effects of cAMP and protein kinase C on meiotic maturation and MAP kinase phosphorylation in porcine oocytes
Authors: Fan Heng‐Yu , Li Man‐Yu , Tong Chao , Chen Da‐Yuan , Xia Guo‐Liang , Song Xiang‐Fen , Schatten Heide , Sun Qing‐Yuan
Published: November 2002

The regulation of MAP kinase phosphorylation by cAMP and protein kinase C (PKC) modulators during pig oocyte maturation was studied by Western immunoblotting. We showed that both forskolin and IBMX inhibited MAP kinase phosphorylation and meiosis resumption in a dose‐dependent manner, and this inhibitory effect was overcome by the protein phosphatase inhibitor, okadaic acid. Pharmacological PKC activator phorbol myristate acetate or physiological PKC activator diC8 also delayed MAP kinase phosphorylation and meiosis resumption, and their effect was abrogated by PKC inhibitors, staurosporine, and calphostin C. The results suggest that meiotic resumption is inhibited by elevation of cAMP or delayed by activation of PKC probably via down‐regulation of MAP kinase activation, which is mediated by protein phosphatase, during pig oocyte maturation. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 63: 480–487, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Use of atomic force microscopy for morphological and morphometric analyses of acrosome intact and acrosome‐reacted human sperm
Authors: Mai Andrew , Weerachatyanukul Wattana , Tomietto Mauro , Wayner Danial D.M. , Wells George , Balhorn Rod , Leader Arthur , Cyr Jean‐Louis , Tanphaichitr Nongnuj
Published: November 2002

The objective of this study was to use atomic force microscopy (AFM), with submicron resolution, for morphophologic and morphometric analyses of acrosome intact and acrosome‐reacted human sperm heads. A mixed population of acrosome intact and reacted sperm was produced by treating capacitated sperm with A23187, which induced the acrosome reaction in ∼ 50% of total sperm population. This A23187‐treated sperm suspension was then plated onto a coverslip and acrosome reacted sperm were preidentified by their specific staining with rhodamine‐conjugated Concanavalin A. The sperm coverslip was then air‐dried and scanned by a Nanoscope IIIa atomic force microscope, using the contact mode. Top and side view images processed through the illuminate mode revealed three dimensional sperm head contour, with the highest point situated in the head posterior in both acrosome intact and acrosome reacted sperm. Maximum height, length, and width measured in 50 acrosome intact and 50 acrosome‐reacted sperm were the same in both populations. However, head length at half maximum height was significantly decreased in acrosome reacted sperm (2.99 ± 0.24 μm vs. 3.56 ± 0.32 μm of acrosome intact sperm), due to the sudden change of the height contour from the maximum peak to the anterior tip of acrosome‐reacted sperm. Our results described here can therefore be used to differentiate acrosome intact and reacted sperm from each other. This would allow future studies on subcellular changes, related to the acrosome reaction, at the submicron resolution level under more physiological conditions, since AFM does not require fixing or staining of the samples. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 63: 471–479, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Microtubulin configuration and mitochondrial distribution after ultra‐rapid cooling of bovine oocytes
Authors: Rho Gyu‐Jin , Kim Sena , Yoo Jae‐Gyu , Balasubramanian S. , Lee Hyo‐Jong , Choe Sang‐Yong
Published: November 2002

Considerable attention has been focused on the cryopreservation of mammalian oocytes, as a consequence of poor development of cryopreserved bovine oocytes in vitro, in order to enhance the application of genetic engineering. Experiments were carried out to evaluate the viability and ultra‐structural changes of bovine oocytes cryopreserved by ultra rapid cooling methods. Oocytes that had been allowed to mature for 22 hr were exposed to a mixture of cryoprotectants (3.2 M ethylene glycol, 2.36 M dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), 0.6 M sucrose), and were cryopreserved by very rapid cooling either within glass capillaries or as droplets on copper electron microscope grids. After being warmed, the oocytes were cultured in in vitro maturation (IVM) medium for an additional 2 hr. Viability was assessed by determining the development rate after fertilization with frozen–thawed semen from which motile sperm had been recovered using a Percoll density gradient, and by immunochemical evaluation of microtubule and mitochondrial morphology. Cleavage and development rates were significantly (P < 0.05) lower in oocytes cryopreserved by vitrification than in in vitro fertilization (IVF) control group, but did not differ in the open‐pulled glass (OPG) or copper grid (CG) groups. In most oocytes cryopreserved by vitrification, the microtubules were partially or completely broken. Similarly mitochondria appeared to be abnormal compared to that of unfrozen oocytes. Oocytes cultured in IVM medium supplemented with both cytochalasin B (a protein synthesis inhibitor) and 2‐mercaptoethanol (an antioxidant) showed less damage to microtubules, but not to mitochondria after cryopreservation. In conclusion, this study showed that bovine oocytes can be cryopreserved by vitrification within small droplets using CGs. While damage to microtubules and mitochondria may be involved in reduced viability, supplementation of IVM medium with cytochalasin B appears to enhance stabilization of microtubules during oocyte cryopreservation. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 63: 464–470, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.