bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The influence of plant cover and land use on slope–channel decoupling in a foothill catchment: a case study from the Carpathian Foothills, southern Poland
Authors: Święchowicz Jolanta
Published: October 2002

This paper examines the influence of plant cover and land use on slope–channel decoupling in the Stara Rzeka Stream catchment (22·4 km2) and its subcatchment Dworski Potok Stream (0·3 km2). The Stara Rzeka catchment is situated in the marginal part of the Carpathian Foothills and is characterized by a relief of low and medium hills. The catchment is used for agriculture but unlike other foothill catchments, it has a relatively extensive unfragmented area of forests (41·3 per cent). Grasslands and pastures (13·8 per cent) are mainly along the broad and flat valley floor. In the cultivated area (38·5 per cent) of the northern low hill part of the catchment, the fields are long, narrow and separated by boundary strips. They stretch from the hilltops to the valley bottom and are traditionally ploughed along the slopes.

The research into slope wash was carried out at six sites downslope (August 1989 to October 1990) and on experimental plots (1989–1991). Transport of suspended matter was determined in the channels of the Stara Rzeka and Dworski Potok Streams (1987–1991).

The results show that transport and export of the material on the slopes depend on the morphology of the slope and on the agricultural use of the area. The mosaic of fields which are used differently makes the soil wash process very intensive only if the slopes are ploughed and unprotected by a dense cover of vegetation. The material displaced is mostly accumulated at the foot of the slopes or at the bottom of the valley. Footslope areas and flat valley bottoms covered with grass function as a barrier separating the slope and the river bed. These features generally negate the transfer of slope‐originated material to the bed of the stream. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Using thiamine to reduce post‐ECT confusion
Authors: Linton C.R. , Reynolds M.T.P. , Warner N.J.
Published: October 2002

Cognitive side‐effects are commonly seen following electroconvulsive therapy which convey no therapeutic benefit but are troublesome to both patient and clinician. Various efforts have been made in the past to minimize these symptoms. Although modification of technical parameters related to ECT administration has led to some limited improvement in this regard, attention is now being increasingly focussed on pharmacological approaches. A number of agents have been explored in this context, however, as far as we are aware, the use of thiamine has not yet been investigated. We present three cases of elderly patients undergoing ECT for major depression in whom thiamine administration was associated with beneficial effects on post‐ECT confusion. We review the evidence suggesting that thiamine deficiency may be implicated in the confusional state following ECT and recommend that consideration be given to its use in preventing and treating this problematic side‐effect, especially in elderly patients. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Measuring change in psychiatric symptoms using the Neuropsychiatric Inventory: Nursing Home version
Authors: Iverson Grant L. , Hopp Grace A. , DeWolfe Kimberley , Solomons Kevin
Published: October 2002

Background

The Neuropsychiatric Inventory—Nursing Home version (NPI–NH) is a modified version of the Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI). Accurate interpretation of change in the symptom ratings on the NPI–NH, as with any measure, is a concern for both clinicians and researchers. The purpose of this article is to present data for the interpretation of reliable change in the NPI–NH scores for acute geriatric neuropsychiatry patients.

Method

Fifty‐two geriatric psychiatry inpatients were administered the NPI–NH twice, at a 72‐hour interval. Standard errors of difference scores were used to calculate confidence intervals for each of the NPI–NH subscales and the total score.

Results

Based on the calculations described above, estimates of reliable change on the individual subscales ranged from plus or minus 1.29 points on the Euphoria/Elation subscale to 5.13 points on the Anxiety subscale. Statistically meaningful change on the Agitation and the Apathy subscales was established at 4.0 and 4.3 points, respectively. A change in the total score of plus or minus 22 points is required to exceed the possible range of measurement error, at a 0.80 confidence interval (CI).

Conclusions

Overall, the results of this study indicate that the clinician evaluating elderly psychiatric inpatients should interpret a change in the total score of less than 22 points with caution, because it may be due to measurement error. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Radiofrequency ablation of head and neck tumors: Dramatic results from application of a new technology
Authors: Owen Randall P. , Ravikumar Thanjavur S. , Silver Carl E. , Beitler Jonathan , Wadler Scott , Bello Jacqueline
Published: October 2002

Background

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a new treatment modality used over the past decade predominantly in the treatment of unresectable liver tumors. We find no prior reported series on the use of RFA for malignant tumors of the head and neck.

Methods

Four patients with recurrent tongue tumors not amenable to standard surgical or radiation therapy were treated with RFA administered transorally, endoscopically, or percutaneously.

Results

There was no perioperative mortality. Significant palliation was achieved consisting of substantial reduction in tumor size and alleviation of tumor‐induced pain. One patient has survived for 8 months with no progression of tumor. Three patients had complications, including line sepsis, pneumonia, and enlargement of an orocutaneous fistula.

Conclusions

RFA was relatively straightforward to apply, achieved substantial palliation, and was associated with minimal perioperative morbidity and no mortality. It might easily be combined with other therapies such as chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or radiation. Further investigation is necessary and ongoing. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 24: 754–758, 2002
Histopathologic parameters in the evaluation of T1 squamous cell carcinomas of the oral cavity
Authors: Bundgaard Troels , Rossen Kristian , Henriksen Søren D. , Charabi Samih , Søgaard Helmer , Grau Cai
Published: October 2002

Background

Prognostic indicators that could assist in a more precise selection of patients with small oral carcinomas for differentiated therapy would be valuable. A significant fraction of patients with stage I disease have a relatively poor prognosis despite the small size of the tumor, but in general stage I tumors of the oral cavity have a favorable prognosis.

Methods

Seventy‐eight patients with stage I (T1N0M0) oral squamous cell carcinoma from two different ENT departments were included in the study. The pretreatment biopsy specimens were graded according to the modified classification of Jakobsson et al. Eight individual parameters were recorded, four parameters describing the tumor cell population and four parameters describing the tumor/host interaction.

Results

The only significant prognostic parameter for disease‐specific survival was “mode of invasion.” The histologic mean score was not significantly correlated to disease‐specific or crude survival.

Conclusions

Mode of invasion is the most important histologic parameter when evaluating the prognosis. Histologic evaluation of small squamous cell carcinomas of the oral cavity may assist the design of a differentiated treatment strategy (eg, monotherapy vs combined treatment). © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Head Neck 24: 656–660, 2002
Computer‐aided macroergonomics for improved performance and safety
Authors: Kleiner Brian M.
Published: October 2002

The U.S. presidential election of 2000 was characterized by alleged ergonomic problems associated with the design of voting ballots. However, this visible event actually exemplified the fact that many apparent ergonomic issues are, in fact, macroergonomic issues. That is, in such cases, there are larger systemic factors at work that interact with and contribute to human–machine interface issues. Further complicating system effectiveness is the notion that modern work systems are distributed and therefore require computer aiding to establish a communication pipeline through which decisions can flow and performance can be enhanced. A conceptual and theoretical framework is presented for understanding such computer‐aided work systems and a taxonomy and research examples for three types of computer‐aided work systems are also offered. It is concluded that the single operator–single machine paradigm is not obsolete and the focus remains ultimately on the ergonomic level, but relevant macroergonomic, sociotechnical system factors require consideration prior to optimizing this level for overall ergonomic success. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
On simulating human reach motions for ergonomics analyses
Authors: Chaffin Don B.
Published: October 2002

Many existing job analysis tools for ergonomics have concentrated on the potential adverse effects of force, posture, and repetition, as these appear to be traditionally recognized risk factors in the workplace. Recent investigations have indicated that this pragmatic approach may be overly simplistic, and thus miss prediction of risk factors associated with certain motions.

This article reviews some of the research under way in the University of Michigan's Human Motion Simulation Laboratory to develop a set of human motion prediction models. To produce these models, over 37,000 motions of 100 men and women from 18 to 78 years in age have been measured with a motion capture system. The motions are typical of people reaching and moving light to moderate load objects while either seated or standing. A 17‐link kinematics model has been developed to resolve the dynamics of the motions.

Thus far, initial motion algorithms have been developed that capture well over 95% of the between participant repeatability. Advantages and limitations of the methods and data being used are discussed and illustrated. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Physiological costs of the hearing due to noise exposure, additional physical stress, and combined exposure to alcohol and cigarette smoke
Authors: Strasser H. , Irle H.
Published: October 2002

In 2 studies, each with 5 test series, physiological costs of the hearing due to legally tolerable noise exposures of 94 dB (A) for 1 hr have been measured audiometrically. The temporary threshold shifts (TTS) and their restitution time, as well as cardiovascular responses in work‐related heart rate increases, of 10 and 8 subjects (Ss), respectively, could be shown to be modulated by additional physical stress and combined exposure to alcohol (Study 1) and cigarette smoke (Study 2). Moderate dynamic muscle work (50 W) administered via a bicycle ergometer either immediately after noise, or simultaneous to the noise exposure, significantly reduced restitution time as well as the integrated restitution temporary threshold shift (IRTTS). A physical stress to 100 W—which exceeded the endurance level when demanded simultaneously to the noise exposure—did not show any favorable effects. However, if the same physical stress succeeded the noise exposure, and when it was interrupted several times for the audiometric measurements, it also brought about significant accelerations of the restitution processes. Some reductions in physiological costs of the hearing were found due to an intervening alcohol consumption (blood alcohol concentration ∼ 0.08%) prior to the noise exposure and a simultaneous physical load of 50 W. Smoking 10 cigarettes instead of the consumption of alcohol was associated with a reduced TTS, but a prolonged restitution time. IRTTS as total physiological costs of the most unfavorable combination of noise, simultaneous high physical workload, and preceding smoke exposure was increased. The results of the test series with cigarette smoke—probably due to the small group of just 8 Ss and the counteracting effects of the agents carbon monoxide (CO) and nicotine—were not statistically significant, but these exposures were associated with a substantial activation of the cardiovascular system. Significant heart rate increases are evidence that CO and nicotine must not be neglected as influential factors in the context of physiological costs that the organism, and especially the hearing, has to pay for noise exposures. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Rates of adherence to pharmacological treatment among children and adolescents with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder
Authors: Ibrahim El Sheikh R.
Published: October 2002

Pharmacological intervention, mainly with psychostimulants, alone or with psychotherapy or behavioural modification, was found to be effective in increasing sustained attention span, improving concentration, reducing hyperactive behaviour and improving areas of academic deficits in children and adolescents with the diagnosis of attention deficit‐hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Despite their proven efficacy, noncompliance of the children and adolescents to the prescribed medication presents serious problems to patients and health care providers alike.

Objective

To investigate the rate of adherence to prescribed medication in a clinically referred sample of children and adolescents diagnosed as having ADHD. In addition, the stability of reports of adherence over a 3 month period was explored.

Method

Fifty‐one children and adolescents (males: n = 42; females: n = 9) between the age of 7 years and 16.6 years diagnosed with ADHD and their parents were administered a children behaviour checklist, a teacher report form scale and a compliance with treatement opinion and attitude scale.

Results

There were very high reports of adherence by children to prescribed medications for ADHD with rates of compliance greater than 70%. Correlation between the children and adolescents' reports and the parents' reports revealed high agreement both at the end of week 1 and at the end of the study (week 12). There were also findings of stability of adherence reports over a 3 month period.

Conclusion

The results of this study documented high rates of adherence to medication prescribed for symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in a sample of children and adolescents. Their reports of adherence were well correlated with parents' reports. Several factors were found to be related to the high level of adherence. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Modelling of spatial controls on denitrification at the landscape scale
Authors: Whelan M. J. , Gandolfi C.
Published: October 2002

A simple model for estimating likely spatial patterns in landscape‐scale denitrification rates is described. In the absence of limiting nitrate concentration, denitrification is assumed to be controlled principally by the soil water regime and the amount of available soil carbon. A formulation of TOPMODEL is used to estimate the spatial distribution of water table depths. Soil carbon concentration is assumed to decrease exponentially with depth. The spatial distribution of carbon concentrations at the soil surface is assumed to be imperfectly correlated with the topographic index used in TOPMODEL. Monte Carlo simulation techniques were used to introduce a stochastic element to the spatial distribution of soil carbon. This allowed estimates of the uncertainty in model outputs, resulting from uncertainties in the distribution and variability of soil carbon to be made. The model predicted spatial and temporal patterns of nitrate‐non‐limiting denitrification for a 15 year period in the Slapton Wood catchment in southwest England. Predicted denitrification followed a slight seasonal pattern with a winter maximum. Total annual denitrification losses tended to be positively correlated with total annual precipitation in the catchment. Highest rates tended to be predicted near to the stream. The modelling approach provides a means of assessing the proximity of local‐scale field measurements to probable landscape‐scale denitrification fluxes. Combining a deterministic model core with a stochastic generation of model parameters or state variables provides an attractive way of embracing variability and uncertainty whilst maintaining a conceptual description of the system dynamics. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The simulation of heat and water exchange at the land–atmosphere interface for the boreal grassland by the land‐surface model SWAP
Authors: Gusev Yeugeniy M. , Nasonova Olga N.
Published: October 2002

The major goal of this paper is to evaluate the ability of the physically based land surface model SWAP to reproduce heat and water exchange processes that occur in mid‐latitude boreal grassland regions characterized by a clear seasonal course of hydrometeorological conditions, deep snow cover, seasonally frozen soil, as well as seasonally mobile and shallow water table depth. A unique set of hydrometeorological data measured over 18 years (1966–83) at the Usadievskiy catchment (grassland) situated in the central part of Valdai Hills (Russia) provides an opportunity to validate the model. To perform such validation in a proper way, SWAP is modified to take into account a shallow water table depth. The new model differs from its previous version mainly in the parameterization of water transfer in a soil column; besides that, it includes soil water–groundwater interaction. A brief description of the new version of SWAP and the results of its validation are presented.

Simulations of snow density, snow depth, snow water equivalent, daily snow surface temperature, daily evaporation from snow cover, water yield of snow cover, water table depth, depth of soil freezing and thawing, soil water storage in two layers, daily surface and total runoff from the catchment, and monthly evaporation from the catchment are validated against observations on a long‐term basis. The root‐mean‐square errors (RMSEs) of simulations of soil water storage in the layers of 0–50 cm and 0–100 cm are equal to 16 mm and 24 mm respectively; the relative RMSE of simulated annual total runoff is 16%; the RMSE of daily snow surface temperature is 2·9 °C (the temperature varies from 0 to −46 °C); the RMSE of maximum snow water equivalent (whose value averaged over 18 years is equal to 147 mm) is 32 mm. Analysis of the results of validation shows that the new version of the model SWAP reproduces the heat and water exchange processes occurring in mid‐latitude boreal grassland reasonably well. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Suppression of growth and increased cellular attachment after expression of DAL‐1 in MCF‐7 breast cancer cells
Authors: Charboneau Aubri L. , Singh Vinita , Yu Tingxi , Newsham Irene F.
Published: October 2002

The differentially expressed in adenocarcinoma of the lung (DAL‐1) gene, which shares significant homology with members of the 4.1/ezrin/radixin/moesin/neurofibromatosis 2 (ERM/NF2) protein family, has previously been shown to suppress growth in lung cancer cell lines. This gene localizes to chromosome band 18p11.3, which undergoes loss of heterozygosity (LOH) in nonsmall cell lung carcinomas and a significant proportion of ductal carcinomas in situ (DCIS) of the breast. This finding suggests that alteration of gene(s) (possibly DAL‐1) within this chromosomal region may be important early in the progression of breast disease. We generated MCF‐7 cell lines expressing DAL‐1 constitutively or under the control of an inducible promoter and analyzed the effect of DAL‐1 expression on growth. These investigations revealed that the DAL‐1 protein suppresses the growth of MCF‐7 cells and may do so in part through the induction of apoptosis. In addition, expression of DAL‐1 increased attachment of these cells to a variety of extracellular matrices. This is the first evidence that the DAL‐1 protein functions at the interface between cell adhesion and apoptosis in controlling cell growth. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Differential sensitivity to imatinib of 2 patients with metastatic sarcoma arising from dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans
Authors: Maki Robert G. , Awan Rashid A. , Dixon Richard H. , Jhanwar Suresh , Antonescu Cristina R.
Published: October 2002

Dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans (DFSP) is a rare superficial sarcoma usually affecting the trunk, with significant risk of local recurrence. It is characterized by the presence of ring chromosomes or chromosomal translocations fusing the promoter of the collagen gene COL1A1 to the platelet‐derived growth factor β‐chain gene PDGFB, increasing the production of PDGF locally and promoting autocrine or paracrine tumor growth. Fewer than 5% of patients with DFSP develop metastatic sarcoma, with a poor subsequent prognosis. Imatinib (STI‐571) was developed as an inhibitor of the PDGF receptor tyrosine kinase and has proven clinical activity against chronic myelogenous leukemia (expressing bcr‐abl) and gastrointestinal stromal tumors (expressing c‐kit). We describe 2 patients with metastatic and unresectable metastases from DFSP treated with imatinib. After confirmation of negative CD117 status of 2 sarcomas arising from DFSP, patients were given imatinib 400 mg po qd and assessed at regular intervals for their tolerance and response to therapy. One patient had a transient response, then progressed rapidly and died of disease. Another patient showed a partial response to therapy after 2 months, with resolution of superior vena cava syndrome and shrinking of metastatic lung lesions. His response is ongoing after 6 months of therapy. These clinical data confirm findings from models of DFSP and support the use of imatinib in the rare setting of metastatic DFSP. Imatinib may be useful for patients with locally advanced DFSP, when other options for local therapy are limited. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The relation between wealth and labour market transitions: an empirical study for the Netherlands
Authors: Bloemen Hans G.
Published: October 2002

We study the relationship between wealth and labour market transitions. A lifecycle model, in which individuals are faced by uncertainty about the availability of jobs, serves as a basis for a reduced‐form specification for the probabilities of labour market transitions, which depend on wealth according to the model. Theory implies a negative effect of wealth on the probability of becoming or staying employed. This implication is tested for in a reduced‐from model of labour market transitions, in which we allow for random effects, initial conditions, and measurement error in wealth. Elasticities of transitions probabilities with respect to wealth are presented. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Interfacial tensile strength between polymethylmethacrylate‐based bioactive bone cements and bone
Authors: Kamimura Masaki , Tamura Jiro , Shinzato Shuichi , Kawanabe Keiichi , Neo Masashi , Kokubo Tadashi , Nakamura Takashi
Published: October 2002

We have developed two types of polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA)‐based bioactive bone cements containing bioactive glass beads (designated GBC) or apatite‐wollastonite containing glass‐ceramic powder (designated AWC) as the filler. A new method was used to evaluate the bone–cement interfacial strength of these bioactive bone cements. Two types of bioactive bone cements (GBC and AWC) and PMMA cement (CMW‐1) were put in a frame attached to the smooth tibial metaphyseal cortex of the rabbit and polymerized in situ. The load required to detach the cement from the bone was measured at 4, 8, and 16 weeks after implantation. The interfacial tensile strength of GBC and AWC showed significantly higher values than PMMA cement from 4 weeks, and increased with time. For GBC, strength reached a maximum value of 12.39 ± 1.79 kgf 16 weeks after implantation. Histological examination of rabbit tibiae up to 16 weeks demonstrated no intervening layer between the bioactive bone cements and the bone, whereas fibrous tissue was observed at the interface between the PMMA cement and the bone. From this study, we conclude that PMMA‐based bioactive bone cements have a relatively higher adhesiveness at the interface than the conventionally used PMMA cement, showing potential as a promising alternative. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res 61: 564–571, 2002
Effects of dental resin components on vascular reactivity
Authors: Maddux William F. , Abebe Worku , Schuster George S. , Mozaffari Mahmood S.
Published: October 2002

The frequent use of resins in dentistry has raised the question of their compatibility with oral tissues. The present study was undertaken to determine the effects of the resin components methyl methacrylate (MMA), hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA), and triethylene glycol dimethacrylate (TEGDMA) on the reactivity of blood vessels using the isolated rat aorta as a tissue model. MMA, HEMA, and TEGDMA caused endothelium‐dependent and ‐independent relaxation of rat aortic rings in a concentration‐related manner. The endothelium‐dependent responses of the tissues to all the resins were significantly attenuated by N‐nitro‐L‐arginine methyl ester (L‐NAME), indicating the involvement of nitric oxide. The vasorelaxant effects of both MMA and TEGDMA on the intact and denuded aortae were markedly inhibited by indomethacin, providing evidence for the role of prostanoids in these responses. Glybenclamide selectively attenuated TEGDMA‐induced relaxation of the tissues with and without endothelium to a similar extent, suggesting the activation of vascular smooth muscle KATP channels by this resin. It is concluded that MMA, HEMA, and TEGDMA interfere with the function of blood vessels by inducing vasorelaxation via different mechanisms, which, depending upon the type of resin, may at least involve the release of nitric oxide and prostanoid(s), and the activation of smooth muscle KATP channels. These phenomena may play a role in tissue homeostasis and certain pathophysiological conditions associated with the application of resin materials to the oral environment. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res 61: 572–580, 2002
The biological effects of antiadhesion agents on activated RAW264.7 macrophages
Authors: Habara Toshihiro , Nakatsuka Mikiya , Konishi Hideki , Asagiri Kazuo , Noguchi Soichi , Kudohabara Takafumi
Published: October 2002

The objective of this study is to determine the biological effects of various antiadhesion agents on macrophages, which play an essential role in wound healing and adhesion. To determine these effects, RAW264.7 macrophages were activated with lipopolysaccharide in the presence of antiadhesion agents: oxidized regenerated cellulose (oxyC), sodium hyaluronate (HA), dexamethasone (Dex), or chondroitin sulfate (CS). The release of nitric oxide (NO), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), or matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) from RAW264.7 was measured. We found that oxyC reduced the release of NO, IL‐6, MMP‐2, and MMP‐9, whereas it enhanced the release of VEGF. HA reduced the release of MMP‐2, whereas it enhanced the release of VEGF and NO. HA exhibited no significant effect on the release of IL‐6 or MMP‐9. Dex reduced the release of NO, VEGF, IL‐6, MMP‐2, and MMP‐9. CS reduced the release of VEGF, IL‐6, and MMP‐2, although it had no significant effect on the release of NO and MMP‐9. Antiadhesion agents, which have been clinically used as physical barriers, modulated the functions of macrophages. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res 61: 628–633, 2002
Calculated platelet dose: Is it useful in clinical practice?
Authors: Askari Sabeen , Weik Phillip R. , Crosson John
Published: October 2002

The corrected count increment (CCI) can standardize assessment of platelet transfusions by correcting for patient's body surface area (BSA) and platelet dose (PD). By using a fixed CCI and a desired post‐transfusion platelet count, CCI formula can be used to calculate PD. Our transfusion service has used the following formula since May 1990, to determine the number of platelet units to transfuse in non‐bleeding patients:

equation image
where, 7,000 is expected platelet count increment per unit transfused, and 1.7 is BSA in square meters in a normal adult. To evaluate its usefulness, a retrospective review was performed of all 2,202 platelet transfusions at our level‐one trauma center, between 1/1/98 and 12/31/00. Eighty‐three transfusions in 69 adult patients, in which a calculated PD was determined prior to transfusion, were evaluated for platelet increments at 1, 1–18, or 18–24 hours post‐transfusion. Transfusions that used the calculated PD (n = 49) were compared with those that were based on clinical judgment alone (n = 34). These two groups were comparable in their pre‐transfusion platelet counts, ABO compatibility, and unit storage duration. The mean calculated PD transfused in the first group was 6 U ± 1 standard deviation, which was not different from the second group (P = 0.2). There was no difference in the platelet count increments at 1, 1–18, or 18–24 hours post‐transfusion. This study suggests that using a PD based on the CCI formula does not reduce platelet usage when the routine PD is six or less platelet concentrates. J. Clin. Apheresis 17:103–105, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Therapeutic plasma exchange in recurrent focal segmental glomerulosclerosis following transplantation
Authors: Shariatmadar S. , Noto T.A.
Published: October 2002

Focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) recurs in 30% of renal allograft transplants with graft loss in half of the cases. A humoral factor may be implicated. We report on the use of therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) in 11 patients with recurrent FSGS post transplantation. Medical records from 1989–2000 were reviewed for 11 adults transplanted for biopsy proven FSGS. Ten patients developed proteinuria (x: 6.1 g; range: 3–40 g/24 h) within 2 months of transplantation. In 1 patient, proteinuria (4 g) occurred 2 years post transplantation. Biopsy in six patients revealed early recurrent FSGS, while in five, suspected recurrence was based on clinical findings. Each patient received 5–11 TPEs (x: 6) with the COBE Spectra, daily or on alternate days with 2.5–3.5 L 5% albumin as the replacement fluid. In four, FFP was included because of coagulopathy. All received immunosuppression (IS) during and after TPE. A persistent drop in 24 h urine protein (U.P.) was observed in 10/11 patients. Seven had >70% drop in 24 h U.P. following the course of TPE, while three had a reduction of 45–50%. No change occurred in 1 patient. Follow‐up (9 months–5 years) of seven patients has shown a persistent U.P. of <1 g with successful allograft survival. In these patients, TPE appeared effective in early recurrent FSGS. The decrease in U.P. may result from combined TPE and IS. Although the disease is designated in category III by the ASFA, TPE should be considered early when FSGS recurrence is established. J. Clin. Apheresis 17:78–83, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Differential regulation of P‐glycoprotein genes in primary rat hepatocytes by collagen sandwich and drugs
Authors: Lee Chow H.
Published: October 2002

P‐glycoprotein (Pgp) is a small family of plasma membrane proteins, which are capable of transporting substrates across cell membranes. Class I and II Pgp are able to transport drugs and have been shown to mediate multidrug resistance (MDR). Class III Pgp is a long chain phospholipid transporter and does not mediate MDR. The regulation of all three Pgp genes is still poorly understood. For instance, it is not clear if the three Pgp genes are co‐regulated or differentially regulated by external stimuli. This study examined the effect of drugs and collagen sandwich system on expression and transcription of all the three Pgp genes in primary rat hepatocytes. Consistent with previous findings, dramatic overexpression (25‐fold) of Class II Pgp mRNA was seen, upon culturing of hepatocytes onto a single layered collagen gel. Hepatocytes sandwiched between two layers of collagen gel exhibited decreased (4.5‐fold) Class II Pgp mRNA expression as compared to the single layer system. Treatment of hepatocytes cultured on the single layer collagen system with cytoskeletal disrupting (cytochalasin D, colchicine) but not cytoskeletal stabilizing (phalloidin, taxol) drugs, suppressed Class II Pgp expression. In all cases, no change in Class II Pgp transcription was observed as demonstrated by nuclear run‐on studies. This suggests that collagen configuration and drugs affect Class II Pgp mRNA expression predominantly through post‐transcriptional mechanisms. In contrast, parallel increases in mRNA expression and transcription of Class I Pgp gene were observed upon culturing of hepatocytes, in the collagen sandwich system, and treatment with some drugs (cytochalasin D, colchicine, and phalloidin). This suggests that Class I Pgp gene is regulated primarily via transcriptional mechanisms by these stimuli. On the other hand, Class III Pgp gene appears to be post‐transcriptionally co‐regulated with Class II Pgp gene by treatment with the drugs, while collagen configuration affected both transcription and post‐transcription of Class III Pgp gene. Finally, dose‐dependent studies using cycloheximide provided further evidence that the two MDR‐associated genes are not co‐regulated. This study has implications for future studies on the molecular mechanisms of Pgp gene regulation. J. Cell. Biochem. 86: 12–20, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Sox9 transactivation and testicular expression of a novel human gene, KIAA0800
Authors: Zhao Ling‐Jun , Zhang Shangao , Chinnadurai G.
Published: October 2002

The Sry and Sox9 sex‐determination factors initiate and promote testis differentiation by gene transactivation through similar promoter elements. However, knowledge is limited concerning what genes are regulated by Sry/Sox9 in the testis. Identification and characterization of Sry/Sox9‐regulated genes are critical for understanding sexual differentiation. We now demonstrate that a novel human gene, KIAA0800, is preferentially expressed in the testis and is transactivated by Sox9. The KIAA0800 promoter is repressed by an upstream element involving a polyT track and two Alu repeats. Two specific Sox9‐bindings sites have been identified in the KIAA0800 promoter by using DNaseI footprinting assays and gel electrophoretic mobility shift assays. Sox9 transactivation of the KIAA0800 promoter appears to be exerted mainly through the relief of promoter repression. Genes homologous to the human KIAA0800 exist in organisms with differentiated sex tissues including mouse, Drosophila, and C. elegans, but not in unicellular organisms, including yeast and bacteria. Further, our recent sequence analysis shows that KIAA0800 protein is 97% identical between human and mouse. Thus, KIAA0800 is a novel Sox9‐activated gene that is evolutionarily conserved and potentially involved in sexual differentiation. J. Cell. Biochem. 86: 277–289, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Subcellular localization of the hypusine‐containing eukaryotic initiation factor 5A by immunofluorescent staining and green fluorescent protein tagging
Authors: Li‐En Jao David , Yu Chen Kuang
Published: October 2002

Eukaryotic initiation factor 5A (eIF‐5A) is the only protein in nature that contains hypusine, an unusual amino acid residue formed posttranslationally by deoxyhypusine synthase and deoxyhypusine hydroxylase. Although the eIF‐5A gene is essential for cell survival and proliferation, the precise function and localization of eIF‐5A remain unclear. In this study, we have determined the subcellular distribution of eIF‐5A by indirect immunofluorescent staining and by direct visualization of green fluorescent protein tagged eIF‐5A (GFP‐eIF5A). Immunofluorescent staining of the formaldehyde‐fixed cells showed that eIF‐5A was present in both the nucleus and cytoplasm. Only the nuclear eIF‐5A was resistant to Triton extraction. Direct visualization of GFP tagged eIF‐5A in living cells revealed the same whole‐cell distribution pattern. However, a fusion of an additional pyruvate kinase (PK) moiety into GFP‐eIF‐5A precluded the nuclear localization of GFP‐PK‐eIF‐5A fusion protein. Fusion of the GFP‐PK tag with three different domains of eIF‐5A also failed to reveal any nuclear localization of the fusion proteins, suggesting the absence of receptor‐mediated nuclear import. Using interspecies heterokaryon fusion assay, we could detect the nuclear export of GFP‐Rev, but not of GFP‐eIF‐5A. The whole‐cell distribution pattern of eIF‐5A was recalcitrant to the treatments that included energy depletion, heat shock, and inhibition of transcription, translation, polyamine synthesis, or CRM1‐dependent nuclear export. Collectively, our data indicate that eIF‐5A gains nuclear entry via passive diffusion, but it does not undergo active nucleocytoplasmic shuttling. J. Cell. Biochem. 86: 590–600, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Reversible changes in the nuclear lamina induced by hyperthermia
Authors: Falloon Elizabeth A. , Dynlacht Joseph R.
Published: October 2002

The nuclear matrix (NM) has been identified as a potential target for heat‐induced cell killing. Previous studies have shown that heat‐shock may significantly modulate lamin B content. Since changes in NM structure have often been accompanied by changes in protein composition, we investigated whether hyperthermia induced changes in nuclear lamina (NL) structure in non‐tolerant and thermotolerant cells, and the implications of these changes on cell survival. Using indirect immunofluorescence techniques and confocal microscopy, we found that heating cells at 42 or 45.5°C caused invaginations and other distortions of the peripheral NL. While hyperthermia did not alter the number or structure of internal lamin B foci, heat‐induced alterations to the peripheral NL were dose‐dependent. Interestingly, NL structure recovered with time after heating in cells that were destined to live or die. Thermotolerant cells heated at 45.5°C showed similar initial changes in the NL compared to non‐tolerant cells, but recovery occurred much faster. Taken together, these results suggest that the amount of initial damage to the peripheral NL is not correlated with heat‐induced cell killing. However, the possibility that an increased rate of recovery might confer a survival advantage cannot be discounted. J. Cell. Biochem. 86: 451–460, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Altered expression and localization of N‐myristoyltransferase in experimentally induced rat model of ischemia‐reperfusion
Authors: Rajala Raju V.S. , Kakkar Rakesh , Kanthan Rani , Radhi Jasim M. , Wang Xintao , Wang Rui , Datla Raju S.S. , Sharma Rajendra K.
Published: October 2002

N‐myristoyltransferase (NMT) catalyzes the attachment of myristate onto the amino‐terminal glycine residue of select polypeptides. In the present study, we investigated the expression and activity of NMT in rat heart after ischemia and reperfusion. Western blot analysis of rat heart samples indicated a prominent immunoreactive band of 66 kDa probed with human NMT antibody. Both the expression and activity of NMT were increased by ischemia‐reperfusion. Immunohistochemical studies showed cytosolic localization of NMT in normal rat heart and predominant nuclear localization after ischemia followed by reperfusion. The pre‐ischemic perfusion and post‐ischemic reperfusion of hearts with a cell‐permeable calpain inhibitor (N‐Ac‐Leu‐Leu‐methioninal) suppressed the increase in calpain expression and reversed the localization of NMT from nucleus to cytoplasm. This is the first study demonstrating the expression and alteration of NMT localization in cardiac ischemia and pertaining to a possible role of co‐translational modification of proteins in cardiac functions and injury. J. Cell. Biochem. 86: 509–519, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Th1 and Th2 cytokines exert regulatory effects upon islet microvascular areas in the NOD mouse
Authors: Papaccio Gianpaolo , Pisanti Francesco Aurelio , Montefiano Rosita Di , Graziano Antonio , Latronico Michael VG
Published: October 2002

In this study, we show that intra‐ and peri‐islet microvascular areas undergo different changes during the islet inflammation in the nonobese diabetes‐prone female mice. Actually, although the islet vascular area (IVA) considerably decreases while the infiltration progresses, at 15 weeks of age, the peri‐islet vascular bed is unexpectedly and significantly increased. On the contrary, the intra‐IVA is significantly decreased, due to vessel dilation. Later, by 20–25 weeks of age, a decrease of both IVA occur, due to a significant islet β cell loss. Moreover, a dramatic fall of natural free radical scavenger values, which, in turn, exert an influence upon vessels, is observed. These effects are completely counteracted by the administration of IL‐4, a Th2 protective cytokine; IL‐10, another putative Th2 cytokine, exerts direct effects upon endothelial cell (EC) function, as shown by the increase of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) mRNA transcripts and by the release of endothelial NO which, in turn, exert vasodilatory effects; moreover, this cytokine significantly upregulates adhesion molecules on endothelia. On the other hand, IL‐1β, a Th1 proinflammatory cytokine, dramatically increases nitrite and nitrate levels, as well as inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) transcripts and also upregulates islet ICAM‐1 expression as well as circulating ICAM‐1 levels. Taken together, our findings clearly show that cytokines and islet endothelia are directly involved in the pathophysiology of the disease. Their reciprocal influence gives new insight to understand the role of microvasculature during islet β cell attack. J. Cell. Biochem. 86: 651–664, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Calibration of force‐field dependency in free energy landscapes of peptide conformations by quantum chemical calculations
Authors: Ono Satoshi , Kuroda Masataka , Higo Junichi , Nakajima Nobuyuki , Nakamura Haruki
Published: October 2002

The free energy landscapes of peptide conformations were calibrated by ab initio quantum chemical calculations, after the enhanced conformational diversity search using the multicanonical molecular dynamics simulations. Three different potentials of mean force for an isolated dipeptide were individually obtained by the multicanonical molecular dynamics simulations using the conventional force fields, AMBER parm94, AMBER parm96, and CHARMm22. Each potential of mean force was then calibrated based upon the umbrella sampling algorithm from the adiabatic energy map that was calculated separately by the ab initio molecular orbital method, and all of the calibrated potentials of mean force coincided well. The calibration method was also applied to the simulations of a peptide dimer in explicit water models, and it was shown that the calibrated free energy landscapes did not depend on the force field used in the classical simulations, as far as the conformational space was sampled well. The current calibration method fuses the classical free energy calculation with the quantum chemical calculation, and it should generally make simulations for biomolecular systems much more reliable when combining with enhanced conformational sampling. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem 4: 470–476, 2002; DOI 10.1002/jcc.10032
Accurate prediction of proton chemical shifts. II. Peptide analogues
Authors: Wang Bing , Hinton James F. , Pulay Peter
Published: October 2002

Proton chemical shifts of eight cyclic amide molecules were measured in DMSO and D2O solutions. The magnetic shieldings of the corresponding aliphatic, aromatic, and amide protons were calculated by Hartree‐Fock and DFT, using the 6‐311G**, 6‐311++G**, and TZVP basis sets. For aliphatic protons, all of these methods reproduce the experimental values in DMSO solutions excellently after linear regression. The Hartree‐Fock method tends to give slightly better agreement than DFT. The best performance is given by the HF/6‐311G** method, with an rms deviation of 0.068 ppm. The deviations from experimental chemical shifts in D2O solutions are only slightly larger than those in DMSO solutions. This suggests that we can use the calculated gas phase proton chemical shifts directly to predict experimental data in various solvents, including water. For amide protons, which exchange with water and form hydrogen bonds with DMSO, only modest agreement is obtained, as expected. The present studies confirm that the GIAO approach can reach high accuracy for the relative chemical shifts of aliphatic and aromatic protons at a low cost. Such calculations may provide constraints for the conformational analysis of proteins and other macromolecules. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem 23: 492–497, 2002; DOI 10.1002/jcc.10044
Modern protein force fields behave comparably in molecular dynamics simulations
Authors: Price Daniel J. , Brooks Charles L.
Published: October 2002

Several molecular dynamics simulations were performed on three proteins—bovine apo‐calbindin D9K, human interleukin‐4 R88Q mutant, and domain IIA of bacillus subtilis glucose permease—with each of the AMBER94, CHARMM22, and OPLS‐AA force fields as implemented in CHARMM. Structural and dynamic properties such as solvent‐accessible surface area, radius of gyration, deviation from their respective experimental structures, secondary structure, and backbone order parameters are obtained from each of the 2‐ns simulations for the purpose of comparing the protein portions of these force fields. For one of the proteins, the interleukin‐4 mutant, two independent simulations were performed using the CHARMM22 force field to gauge the sensitivity of some of these properties to the specific trajectory. In general, the force fields tested performed remarkably similarly with differences on the order of those found for the two independent trajectories of interleukin‐4 with CHARMM22. When all three proteins are considered together, no force field showed any consistent trend in variations for most of the properties monitored in the study. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem 23: 1045–1057, 2002
Molecular dynamics simulation of thymine glycol‐lesioned DNA reveals specific hydration at the lesion
Authors: Pinak Miroslav
Published: October 2002

One nanosecond molecular dynamics (MD) simulation of a thymine glycol (TG)‐lesioned part of human lymphoblast AG9387 was performed to determine structural changes in DNA molecule caused by the presence of a lesion. These changes can be significant for proper recognition of lesions by a repair enzyme. Thymine glycol is the DNA oxidative lesion formed by addition of OH radicals to C5 and C6 atoms of the thymine base. This lesion is known as causing Cockayne Syndrome—inherited genetic disorder. Distribution of water molecules in a hydration shell around the DNA molecule was analyzed for its contribution to the recognition of the TG lesion by the repair enzyme. The results of MD simulation show there is a specific DNA structural configuration formed at the lesion. After 500 ps the DNA is bent in a kink at the TG site. This change dislocates the glycosyl bond at C5′ to a position closer to the DNA surface, and thus its atoms are more exposed to the surrounding water shell. The increased number of water molecules that are close to the TG site indicates that the glycosyl bond may be easily contacted by the repair enzyme. In addition, the higher number of water molecules at the TG site substantiates the importance of water‐mediated hydrogen bonds created between the repair enzyme and the DNA upon formation of the complex. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Comput Chem 22: 1723–1731, 2001