bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lack of transmission to polymorphonuclear leukocytes and human umbilical vein endothelial cells as a marker of attenuation of human cytomegalovirus
Authors: Gerna Giuseppe , Percivalle Elena , Baldanti Fausto , Revello Maria Grazia
Published: August 2002

The development of a human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) vaccine for the prevention of perinatal disease is urgently needed. However, markers of HCMV attenuation are not defined at present. An in vitro model for the study of interactions of HCMV‐infected human fibroblasts and peripheral blood polymorphonuclear leukocytes showed that (1) known laboratory‐adapted HCMV strains as well as cell culture‐adapted HCMV isolates were not transmitted to polymorphonuclear leukocytes; (2) each of the 80 HCMV recent isolates was consistently transmitted to polymorphonuclear leukocytes as both infectious virus and viral components (nucleic acid and proteins); and (3) all 15 polymorphonuclear leukocyte‐tropic strains tested thus far were also endothelial cell‐tropic. The in vitro transmissibility to polymorphonuclear leukocytes (and endothelial cells) is proposed as a surrogate marker of pathogenicity of HCMV strains. It seems reasonable to assume that a HCMV strain candidate for a vaccine be verified as deprived of the transfer property to polymorphonuclear leukocytes (and endothelial cells) before involvement in clinical trials assessing safety and immunogenicity. J. Med. Virol. 66:335‐339, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Changes in neurofilament protein‐immunoreactivity after kainic acid treatment of organotypic hippocampal slice cultures
Authors: Holopainen Irma E. , Lauren Hanna B. , Romppanen Anne , Lopez‐Picon Francisco R.
Published: August 2002

Neurofilament (NF) proteins are expressed in the majority of neurons in the central nervous system, and play a crucial role in the organization of neuronal shape and function. In the present study, we have used immunoblotting and immunocytochemical methods to study the light (NF‐L), medium (NF‐M ), and heavy (NF‐H) molecular weight NF proteins in cultured organotypic hippocampal slices during the in vitro maturation and the changes after kainic acid (KA) treatment. In control cultures at 11 DIV throughout 25 DIV, CA3 pyramidal neurons and their proximal dendrites were heavily labeled with the antibodies against all three NF proteins. In CA1 pyramidal neurons, no staining was detected in any age group. A few weakly NF‐L positive granule cells with fibers were detected in each age group, whereas NF‐M and NF‐H positive granule cells first appeared in the older cultures. The application of KA (5 μM) to the cultures for 48 hr, induced a pronounced cell death in the CA3 cell layers, and also moderately damaged granule cells. After the treatment, the immunoblot signal of NF‐L and NF‐M markedly decreased, whereas that of NF‐H almost completely disappeared. The amount of NF‐L positive fibers, however, dramatically increased in the molecular and hilar regions of the dentate gyrus in both age groups. Our results show the cellular heterogeneity in the distribution of NF protein triplet in cultured organotypic hippocampal slices. Kainic acid treatment induced changes, which mimicked those observed in the hippocampal region of epileptic animals. J. Neurosci. Res. 66:620–629, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Membrane architecture of mitochondria in neurons of the central nervous system
Authors: Perkins Guy A. , Renken Christian W. , Frey Terrence G. , Ellisman Mark H.
Published: August 2002

Electron tomography was used to help redefine the membrane architecture of mitochondria in neurons of the brain. Investigations were conducted on unexplored questions of structural homogeneity between mitochondria in the four intensely studied regions of the brain and in the functionally distinct neuronal sub‐compartments. These mitochondria have the majority of cristae composed of both tubular and lamellar segments with the tubes arranged more peripherally and the lamellae more centrally located. Cristae that are entirely tubular were not commonly seen and those that are entirely lamellar were rare. It was determined that cristae connect through narrow, sometimes very long tubular regions to the peripheral surface of the inner membrane. A structurally distinct type of contact site was revealed in brain mitochondria, which we named the bridge contact site. These bridges may play a role in the structural integrity of the outer and inner membrane systems. It was found that the membrane architecture in the various brain regions and neuronal compartments was strikingly uniform, including consistently tubular crista junctions. The functional consequences of this junctional architecture are discussed in relation to the segregation of proteins between the inner boundary membrane and the cristae membranes, and in relation to the model of microcompartmentation of macromolecules inside cristae. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Central nervous system myelination in mice with deficient expression of Notch1 receptor
Authors: Givogri Maria I. , Costa Rui M. , Schonmann Vilma , Silva Alcino J. , Campagnoni Anthony T. , Bongarzone Ernesto R.
Published: August 2002

Activity of the Notch1 gene is known to inhibit oligodendrocyte (OL) differentiation in vitro. We tested the hypothesis that the Notch1 pathway regulates in vivo myelin formation, by examining brain myelination of Notch1 receptor null heterozygotes mutant animals (Notch1+/–). We show that a deficiency in Notch1 expression leads to increased abundance of products of specific myelin genes in myelinated areas of the brain during the first 2 weeks of postnatal life. We observed increased numbers of myelinated axons in optic nerves and the presence of myelinated fibers in the molecular layer (ML) of the Notch1+/– cerebella. These findings were accompanied by up‐regulation of Mash1 and down‐regulation of Hes5 proteins. In addition, we found expression of Jagged1, one of the Notch1 activators, in unmyelinated axons of the cerebellar ML during normal development. Our findings indicate that the Jagged/Notch signaling pathway might actively participate in the regulation of myelination during central nervous system development and suggest that certain neuronal populations might regulate whether their axons are myelinated by the expression of inhibitory signals such as Jagged1. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Neurotoxic effects of apolipoprotein E4 are mediated via dysregulation of calcium homeostasis
Authors: Veinbergs Isaac , Everson Analisa , Sagara Yutaka , Masliah Eliezer
Published: August 2002

The association of the E4 allele of apolipoprotein E (apoE4) as a genetic risk factor for Alzheimer's disease (AD) has been well established. Although recent studies in neuronal cell lines and transgenic mice have shown that apoE4 promotes neurodegeneration, the mechanisms through which apoE4 impairs neuronal viability are not completely understood. In this context, the main objective of the present study was to determine whether the neurotoxic effects of apoE4 are mediated by an alteration in calcium homeostasis. For this purpose, effects of recombinant apoE3 and apoE4 on cell viability and intracellular calcium levels were analyzed in a murine hippocampal cell line (HT22) and in primary rat cortical neurons, in the presence or absence of calcium inhibitors. Under basal conditions, apoE4‐treated cells displayed increased levels of cytosolic calcium associated with cell death in a dose‐dependent manner. Furthermore, apoE4 treatment potentiated the rise in cytosolic calcium and cell death following the administration of a calcium ionophore. The effects of apoE4 on cell viability and calcium homeostasis were inhibited by calcium chelators or by blocking calcium channels, but not by inhibitors of intracellular calcium reserves. Taken together, these results indicate that the neurotoxic effects of apoE4 are dependent on extracellular calcium influx via calcium channels. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effects of cytokine deficiency on chemokine expression in CNS of mice with EAE
Authors: Matejuk Agata , Dwyer Jami , Ito Atsushi , Bruender Zachary , Vandenbark Arthur A. , Offner Halina
Published: August 2002

Although both cytokines and chemokines have been implicated in the pathogenesis of clinical and histological EAE, their interactions in vivo have not yet been clearly established. To address this issue, we evaluated expression of chemokines and receptors in the CNS of wild‐type control and cytokine deficient mice at the peak of EAE induced with MOG‐35–55 peptide in CFA. Our results demonstrate that: 1) expression of most chemokines/receptors was drastically inhibited in TNF‐α deficient mice, and was reflective of delayed onset and reduced severity of EAE; 2) distinct patterns of chemokine expression occurred in various other cytokine knockout mice that did not significantly affect expression of clinical EAE; 3) there was a strong association between expression of MIP‐1α, MIP‐2 and MCP‐1 in CNS and overall severity of EAE in wild‐type and cytokine knockout mice; and 4) among CNS infiltrating cells at the peak of EAE, macrophages and CD8+ T cells were the primary cellular source of most of the chemokines. Of note, we present evidence that TNF‐α may be involved in regulating RANTES and MIP‐1α, and that IL‐4 may be involved in regulating MCP‐1. Our results not only identify the cellular source of chemokines in CNS, but also implicate MIP‐1α, MIP‐2, and MCP‐1 in controlling CNS inflammation and severity of EAE. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Gender‐dependent hypoxic tolerance mediated via gender‐specific mechanisms
Authors: von Arnim C.A.F. , Etrich S.M. , Timmler M. , Riepe M.W.
Published: August 2002

Primary hypoxic tolerance and preconditioning are gender dependent and modulated in females during the estrus cycle. The underlying mechanisms, however, remain to be determined. mRNA of estrogen receptor‐α (EAR), progesterone receptor (PR), and adenosine receptor subtypes A1 and A3 (A1R and A3R) were investigated with reverse transcriptase‐PCR in hippocampi from control male and female mice and animals treated in vivo with a single i.p. injection of 20 mg/kg body weight 3‐nitropropionate (3NP) 1 or 24 hr prior to preparation. Results were analyzed relative to expression in hippocampi from untreated males. mRNA levels of EAR and A1R were alike in males and females and unaltered by preconditioning with 3NP. In contrast, PR mRNA levels were alike in males and females during proestrus but lower during estrus and diestrus (85% ± 15%, P < 0.05; and 80% ± 10%, P < 0.05, respectively). Upon preconditioning, PR mRNA decreased to 67% ± 19% (P < 0.05) and 56% ± 13% (P < 0.05) during proestrus and diestrus, respectively, but was unaltered during estrus and in males. On preconditioning, A3R mRNA decreased from 115% ± 16% to 86% ± 29% (P < 0.05) during diestrus but remained at the control level during proestrus and estrus. With low‐level expression of PRs, as achieved upon preconditioning, hypoxic tolerance is increased. Other than in males, adenosine A3 receptors are not up‐regulated upon preconditioning in females. Thus, not only is net hypoxic tolerance gender dependent but mechanisms conferring hypoxic tolerance are gender specific. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Arctigenin protects cultured cortical neurons from glutamate‐induced neurodegeneration by binding to kainate receptor
Authors: Jang Young P. , Kim So R. , Choi Young H. , Kim Jinwoong , Kim Sang G. , Markelonis George J. , Oh Tae H. , Kim Young C.
Published: August 2002

We previously reported that arctigenin, a lignan isolated from the bark of Torreya nucifera, showed significant neuroprotective activity against glutamate‐induced toxicity in primary cultured rat cortical cells. In this study, the mode of action of arctigenin was investigated using primary cultures of rat cortical cells as an in vitro system. Arctigenin significantly attenuated glutamate‐induced neurotoxicity when added prior to or after an excitotoxic glutamate challenge. The lignan protected cultured neuronal cells more selectively from neurotoxicity induced by kainic acid than by N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate. The binding of [3H]‐kainate to its receptors was significantly inhibited by arctigenin in a competitive manner. Furthermore, arctigenin directly scavenged free radicals generated by excess glutamate and successfully reduced the level of cellular peroxide in cultured neurons. These results suggest that arctigenin exerted significant neuroprotective effects on glutamate‐injured primary cultures of rat cortical cells by directly binding to kainic acid receptors and partly scavenging of free radicals. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Glial transporters for glutamate, glycine and GABA I. Glutamate transporters
Authors: Gadea Ana , López‐Colomé Ana María
Published: August 2002

The termination of chemical neurotransmission in the CNS involves the rapid removal of neurotransmitter from synapses by specific transport systems. Such mechanism operates for the three major amino acid neurotransmitters glutamate, γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) and glycine. To date, five different high‐affinity Na+‐dependent glutamate (Glu) transporters have been cloned: GLT1, GLAST, EAAC1, EAAT4 and EAAT5. The first two are expressed mainly by glial cells, and seem to be the predominant Glu transporters in the brain. A major function of Glu uptake in the nervous system is to prevent extracellular Glu concentrations from raising to neurotoxic levels in which glial transporters seem to play a critical role in protecting neurons from glutamate‐induced excitotoxicity. Under particular conditions, glial GluTs have been shown to release Glu by reversal of activity, in a Ca2+‐ and energy‐independent fashion. Furthermore, an activity of these transporters as ion channels or transducing units coupled to G‐proteins has recently been reported. The localization, stoichiometry, and regulation of glial GluTs are outlined, as well as their possible contributions to nervous system diseases as ALS, AD and ischemic damage. J. Neurosci. Res. 63:453–460, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Neurons and glial cells of the embryonic human brain and spinal cord express multiple and distinct isoforms of laminin
Authors: Liesi Päivi , Fried Gabriel , Stewart Randall R.
Published: August 2002

We have identified by immunocytochemistry, Western blotting, and RT‐PCR the isoforms of laminin expressed by glial cells and neurons cultured from human embryonic brain and spinal cord. We show that most of the known laminins are present in human neurons and glial cells. Importantly, Western analysis demonstrates that the isoforms of laminin present in embryonic human brain differ from those expressed in human spinal cord. Neurons of the brain and spinal cord also express their distinct and characteristic isoforms of laminin compared to the glial cells of the same CNS regions. These results suggest that, in addition to the known laminins, several novel isoforms may exist in the human embryonic CNS. The observed differences between the isoforms of laminin in brain and spinal cord neurons and glial cells may result from primary structural changes or from posttranslational modifications, e.g., variations in glycosylation. Thus, identification of these novel laminins and determination of their function(s) should further our understanding of the mechanisms of aging, disease, and trauma in the human CNS. J. Neurosci. Res. 64:144–167, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Biological characterization and optical imaging of brain‐derived neurotrophic factor‐green fluorescent protein suggest an activity‐dependent local release of brain‐derived neurotrophic factor in neurites of cultured hippocampal neurons
Authors: Kojima Masami , Takei Nobuyuki , Numakawa Tadahiro , Ishikawa Yasuyuki , Suzuki Shingo , Matsumoto Tomoya , Katoh‐Semba Ritsuko , Nawa Hiroyuki , Hatanaka Hiroshi
Published: August 2002

To visualize the release dynamics of the brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) involved in neural plasticity, we constructed a plasmid encoding green fluorescent protein (GFP) fused with BDNF. First, several biological studies confirmed that this fusion protein (BDNF‐GFP) mimics the biological functions and the release kinetics of unfused (native) BDNF. Second, when BDNF‐GFP was expressed in cultured hippocampal neurons, we observed that this protein formed striking clusters in the neurites of mature neurons and colocalized with the PSD‐95 immunoreactivity. Such a clustered BDNF‐GFP rapidly disappeared in response to depolarization with KCl, as revealed by confocal microscopic studies. These data suggest that BDNF is locally and rapidly released at synaptic sites in an activity‐dependent manner. Optical studies using BDNF‐GFP may provide important evidence regarding the participation of BDNF in synaptic plasticity. J. Neurosci. Res. 64:1–10, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Subtropical cold surges: regional aspects and global distribution
Authors: Garreaud René D.
Published: August 2002

Shallow surges of cold dry air are frequently observed to the east of the major mountain ranges, moving from mid‐latitudes well into the Tropics in about 4 days. Because of their strong impact on weather, regional aspects of cold surges have received considerable attention, particularly over Southeast Asia, to the east of the Rockies and Mexican Sierras, and to the east of the subtropical Andes. Both observational and numerical studies reveal a similar structure and evolution of cold surges in different regions. These common aspects are reviewed in this work, as well as the mechanisms responsible for the development and subsequent advance of cold surges over the subtropics. Atmospheric reanalysis data are used to document the global distribution of cold surges on the basis of their continental‐scale imprints on relevant fields, as well as to estimate their contribution on the regional and global energy balances. It is found that cold surges have a major cooling and drying effect over the regions where they are prevalent (e.g. subtropical South America) and represent a sizeable sink of energy for the Tropics. Copyright © 2001 Royal Meteorological Society
Seasonal prediction of European spring precipitation from El Niño–Southern Oscillation and Local sea‐surface temperatures
Authors: Lloyd‐Hughes Benjamin , Saunders Mark A.
Published: August 2002

The extent to which European seasonal precipitation is predictable is a topic of scientific and societal importance. Although the potential for seasonal prediction is much less over Europe than in the tropics, it is not negligible. Previous studies suggest that European seasonal precipitation skill may peak in the spring (March–April–May) period, this being the season when El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) teleconnections to the North Atlantic and European sector are at their strongest. Examination of the correlation significance and temporal stability of contemporaneous and lagged ENSO links to European and North African precipitation over 98 years confirms this to be the case. The strongest ENSO links are found across the central European region (45°N–55°N,35°E–5°W). These links are symmetric with the sign of ENSO. Using a linear statistical model employing temporally stable lagged ENSO and lagged local North Atlantic sea surface temperatures as predictors, we compute the forecast skill and significance of central European spring precipitation over 30 independent years. For early March forecasts our model skill is 14–18% better than climatology, which is significant at the 95% level. Copyright © 2002 Royal Meteorological Society
Evidence for Holocene climate variability from the sediments of a Scottish remote mountain lake
Authors: Battarbee Richard W. , Cameron Nigel G. , Golding Paul , Brooks Stephen J. , Switsur Roy , Harkness Doug , Appleby Peter , Oldfield Frank , Thompson Roy , Monteith Don T. , McGovern Andrew
Published: August 2002

High resolution sampling of sediment cores covering approximately the last 4000 yr from Lochan Uaine, a small corrie loch in the Scottish Cairngorm Mountains, show quasi‐periodic cycles in organic matter (measured as percentage loss on ignition). Analysis of these cycles show correspondences between loss on ignition, δ13C values and chironomid head capsule abundance. We interpret the changes as reflecting changes in lake productivity and hypothesise that they are driven by climate variability. However, it is not yet clear whether the periods of relatively high organic matter production and preservation are associated with colder or with warmer conditions. Nevertheless the results indicate the value of using sediments from remote, undisturbed mountain lakes as recorders of Holocene climate variability. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
UV Raman spectroscopic study on the phase transformation of ZrO2, Y2O3–ZrO2 and SO42−/ZrO2
Authors: Li Can , Li Meijun
Published: August 2002

The phase evolution of zirconia (ZrO2), sulfated zirconia (SO42−/ZrO2) and yttrium oxide incorporated zirconia (Y2O3–ZrO2) from the tetrahedral phase to the monoclinic phase was studied using UV Raman spectroscopy, visible Raman spectroscopy and x‐ray diffraction (XRD). It is clearly observed that there are discrepancies between the results from the UV Raman spectra, visible Raman spectra and XRD patterns. The phase change from tetragonal to monoclinic is always earlier or at lower calcination temperatures as observed by UV Raman spectroscopy than by visible Raman spectroscopy and XRD. UV Raman spectroscopy is found to be more sensitive at the surface region while visible Raman spectroscopy and XRD supply the information mainly from the bulk. The inconsistency in the results from the three techniques suggests that the phase transformation of zirconia starts from its surface region and then gradually develops into its bulk. For SO42−/ZrO2 and Y2O3–ZrO2, the transformation from the tetragonal to the monoclinic phase is significantly retarded owing to the presence of the sulfated groups and the yttrium oxide. Particularly, the tetragonal phase of Y2O3–ZrO2 can be maintained up to 800 °C although its phase at the surface region changed into monoclinic at 500 °C. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Facilitating organizational change: the role and development of the corporate university
Authors: Prince Christopher , Beaver Graham
Published: August 2002

There is a growing recognition by senior managers in many large organizations of the strategic impact corporate universities are having on their companies.

This can be viewed as a consequence of organizations recognizing the power of learning and knowledge as drivers of strategic change.

This paper contends that this growing recognition is leading to the emergence of a sophisticated form of corporate university, one that is predicated on the principles of organizational learning and knowledge management.

In order to explore this claim a world‐class corporate university model is developed that draws from the work of leading writers and contemporary research.

Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Bone mineral density in well‐differentiated thyroid cancer patients treated with suppressive thyroxine: A systematic overview of the literature
Authors: Quan May Lynn , Pasieka Janice L. , Rorstad Otto
Published: August 2002

Background

The effects of subclinical hyperthyroidism on bone mineral density (BMD) induced by suppressive thyroxine therapy in patients with well‐differentiated thyroid cancer (WDTC) remains unclear. An overview of the current literature was undertaken to evaluate studies to date.

Methods

A systematic medline search yielded a total of 11 studies appropriate for review which included premenopausal women, postmenopausal women, and men on suppressive thyroxine post thyroidectomy for WDTC. Main outcome measures were bone mineral density and bone turnover markers.

Conclusions

Although studies were limited by small numbers and varying degrees of control for confounding variables, results suggested no significant change in bone mineral density for premenopausal women or men. Findings for postmenopausal women remain unclear with two of the best controlled studies reporting opposing results. Further studies for this population are recommended to help guide clinical practice. J. Surg. Oncol. 2002;79:62–70. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Prognostic value of c‐erbB2 expression in breast cancer
Authors: Tsutsui Shinichi , Ohno Shinji , Murakami Shigeru , Hachitanda Yoichi , Oda Shinya
Published: August 2002

Background and Objectives

An overexpression of c‐erbB2 has been reported to be associated with a poor clinical outcome in breast cancer, however, its prognostic value remains controversial especially in patients with node negative breast cancer, and regarding the estrogen receptor (ER) status.

Methods

Immunohistochemical staining for c‐erbB2 was performed on the primary breast cancer from 698 Japanese patients with a mean follow‐up duration of 54 months.

Results

The c‐erbB2 expression was positive in 120 (17.2%) of 698 cases, which inversely correlated with the ER status. Both univariate and multivariate analyses indicated the c‐erbB2 expression to be a significant prognostic factor for the disease‐free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS), while the same efffect was also seen in the patient groups with node negative as well as node positive breast cancer. A univariate anlysis also indicated a subgroup with the positive c‐erbB2 and negative ER to have both a worse DFS and OS than the other subgroups. The patients with positive c‐erbB2 had a significantly worse DFS and OS than the patients with negative c‐erbB2 in all patient groups stratified according to the adjuvant therapies, while the prognostic significance of c‐erbB2 on DFS was also found in the patients with the node negative breast cancer who received adjuvant tamoxifen alone.

Conclusions

The c‐erbB2 expression is an independent significant factor for breast cancer and the prognostic significance remains in the node negative as well as node positive breast cancer, while the same effect was also found in all subgroups stratified according to the adjuvant therapies. In addition, the combination of c‐erbB2 and ER made it possible to identify the subgroup with the worst clinical outcome. J. Surg. Oncol. 2002;79:216–223. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Hoshin Kanri: a tool for strategic policy deployment
Authors: Tennant Charles , Roberts Paul
Published: August 2002

Methodologies for strategic management encompassing various techniques and models tend to set trends and become paradigms, as they are published and presented to the business community. This paper compares management by objectives (MbO) and business process reengineering (BPR) with the technique of Hoshin Kanri, which has been described as one ofthe core aspects of Japan's management system. Planning and deployment are critical elements of Hoshin Kanri, which imply that the process of developing targets, the assessment of the means to achieve the targets and the deployment of both are fundamental to successful implementation. The authors have adapted the Hoshin Kanri technique, for application at a major UK engineering company as a tool for strategic policy deployment. The benefits werefound to include; integration of strategic objectives with tactical daily management, theapplication of the plan–do–check–act circle to business process management, parallel planning and execution methodology, companywide approach and improvements in communication. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Attenuation of infarct size in rats and dogs after myocardial infarction by low‐energy laser irradiation
Authors: Oron Uri , Yaakobi Tali , Oron Amir , Hayam Gal , Gepstein Lior , Rubin Ofer , Wolf Tamir , Haim Shlomo Ben
Published: August 2002

Background and Objective

The aim of the present study was to investigate the possibility that low‐energy laser irradiation attenuates infarct size formation after induction of chronic myocardial infarction (MI) in small and large experimental animals.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

Laser irradiation was applied to the infarcted area of rats and dogs at various power densities (2.5 to 20 mW/cm2) after occlusion of the coronary artery.

Results

In infarcted laser‐irradiated rats that received laser irradiation immediately and 3 days after MI at energy densities of 2.5, 6, and 20 mW/cm2, there was a 14%, 62% (significant; P < 0.05), and 2.8% reduction of infarct size (14 days after MI) relative to non–laser‐irradiated rats, respectively. In dogs, a 49% (significant; P < 0.01) reduction of infarct size was achieved.

Conclusion

The results of the present study indicate that delivery of low‐energy laser irradiation to infarcted myocardium in rats and dogs has a profound effect on the infarct size after MI. Lasers Surg. Med. 28:204–211, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Cell attachment to extracellular matrices is modulated by pulsed radiation at 820 nm and chemicals that modify the activity of enzymes in the plasma membrane
Authors: Karu Tiina I. , Pyatibrat Ludmila V. , Kalendo Galina S.
Published: August 2002

Background and Objective

Adhesive interactions between cells and extracellular matrices play a regulative role in wound repair processes. The objective of this investigation is to study action mechanisms of pulsed radiation at 820 nm on cellular adhesion in vitro. Light emitting diodes (LED) at 820 nm are widely used for treatment of wounds of various etiology.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

The LED (820 ± 10 nm, 10 Hz, 16–120 J/m2) is used for the irradiation of HeLa cell suspension. In parallel experiments, amiloride (5 × 10−4 M), ouabain (7 × 10−5 M, 7 × 10−4 M), quinacrine (6 × 10−4 M), arachidonic acid (1 × 10−5 M), glucose (2 × 10−4 M), and ATP (5 × 10−5 M) are added to the cell suspension before or after the irradiation procedure. The cell–glass adhesion is studied using the adhesion assay technique described in Lasers Surg Med 1996; 18:171.

Results

Cell–glass adhesion increases in a dose‐dependent manner following the irradiation. Preirradiation eliminates the inhibition of cell attachment caused by ouabain, arachidonic acid, and ATP. The inhibitive effect of quinacrine on the cell attachment is eliminated by the irradiation performed after the treatment with the chemical. Irradiation and amiloride have a synergetic stimulative effect on the cell attachment. The threshold dose for the cell attachment stimulation by the irradiation is decreased by the treatment of the cell suspension with amiloride or ouabain.

Conclusions

The results obtained indicate that pulsed IR radiation at 820 nm increases the cell–matrix attachment. It is the modulation of the monovalent ion fluxes through the plasma membrane and not the release of arachidonic acid that is involved in the cellular signaling pathways activated by irradiation at 820 nm. Preirradiation has a protective effect against the inhibitive action of ouabain, arachidonic acid, ATP, and quinacrine on cell attachment process. It is supposed that irradiation activates those signaling pathways in cells which attenuate the inhibitive action of these chemicals. Lasers Surg. Med. 29:274–281, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Analysis of thermal relaxation during laser irradiation of tissue
Authors: Choi Bernard , Welch Ashley J.
Published: August 2002

Background and Objective

Thermal relaxation time (τr) is a commonly‐used parameter for estimating the time required for heat to conduct away from a directly‐heated tissue region. Previous studies have demonstrated that temperature superposition can occur during multiple‐pulse irradiation, even if the interpulse time is considerably longer than τr. The objectives of this study were (1) to analyze tissue thermal relaxation following laser‐induced heating, and (2) to calculate the time required for a laser‐induced temperature rise to decrease to near‐baseline values.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

One‐dimensional (1‐D) analytical and numerical and 2‐D numerical models were designed and used for calculations of the time τeff required for the peak temperature (Tpeak) to decrease to values slightly over baseline (ΔTbase). Temperature values included Tpeak=65 and 100°C, and ΔTbase = 5, 10, and 20°C. To generalize the calculations, a wide range of optical and thermal properties was incorporated into the models. Flattop and gaussian spatial beam profiles were also considered.

Results

2‐D model calculations of τeff demonstrated that τeff (2‐D) was as much as 40 times longer than τr. For a given combination of Tpeak and ΔTbase, a linear relationship was calculated between τeff (1‐D) and τr and was independent of optical and thermal properties. A comparison of 1‐D and 2‐D models demonstrated that 1‐D models generally predicted longer values of τeff than those predicted with a 2‐D geometry when the laser spot diameter was equal to or less than the optical penetration depth.

Conclusion

Relatively simple calculations can be performed to estimate τeff for known values of τr, Tpeak and ΔTbase. The parameter τeff may be a better estimate than τr of tissue thermal relaxation during multiple‐pulse laser irradiation. Lasers Surg. Med. 29:351–359, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Testing the implied mediational role of cognitive age
Authors: Gwinner Kevin P. , Stephens Nancy
Published: August 2002

Although the concept of cognitive age has been positioned in the psychology, marketing, and gerontology literatures as an important variable that mediates the relationship between specific antecedents and consequences, a test of its implied mediational role has not been done. As such, researchers and marketing managers lack a clear understanding of cognitive age's usefulness among a variety of important segmentation variables. This study employs mediated regression analysis to formally explore this implied mediational role with the use of five antecedent variables and three consumer‐behavior outcomes. Results indicate that cognitive age either fully or partially mediates the relationship between antecedents and consequences, but not for all possible relationships. A structural‐equation model is then developed to further explore the substantive relationships between the variables. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
CpG methylation of promoter region inactivates E‐cadherin gene in renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Nojima Dana , Nakajima Koichi , Li Long‐Cheng , Franks Joseph , Ribeiro‐Filho Leopoldo , Ishii Nobuhisa , Dahiya Rajvir
Published: August 2002

CpG methylation in the promoter region has been shown to be important in the regulation of genes implicated in malignant transformation. The present study was designed to test the hypothesis that CpG methylation of the promoter region of the E‐cadherin gene may inactivate its expression in renal cell carcinoma. To test this hypothesis, five kidney cancer cell lines and 34 microdissected renal cell carcinoma samples were analyzed for gene and protein expression by reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemistry, respectively. CpG methylation in the promoter regions of the E‐cadherin gene was analyzed by the sodium bisulfite genome sequencing technique. Our results show that all normal renal tissue expressed the E‐cadherin gene and protein. Of the renal cancer tissues analyzed, 67% (23 of 34) lacked E‐cadherin expression, with an associated increase in methylation, compared with normal tissue. E‐cadherin gene promoter was methylated in all renal cancer cell lines and was accompanied by a loss of E‐cadherin gene and protein expression. The treatment of renal cancer cell lines with the demethylating agent 5‐aza‐2′‐deoxycytidine restored E‐cadherin mRNA expression in all renal cancer cell lines. This is the first report that shows inactivation of the E‐cadherin gene and protein in renal cell carcinoma through CpG hypermethylation in the promoter region of this gene. The results of these experiments may contribute to an understanding of the role of E‐cadherin inactivation in renal cell carcinoma. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Two new cases of rank reversals when the AHP and some of its additive variants are used that do not occur with the multiplicative AHP
Authors: Triantaphyllou Evangelos
Published: August 2002

Many researchers have long observed some cases in which certain ranking irregularities can occur when the original analytic hierarchy process (AHP), or some of its variants, are used. This paper presents two new categories of ranking irregularities which defy common intuition. These ranking irregularities occur when one decomposes a decision problem into a set of smaller problems each defined on two alternatives and the same criteria as the original problem. These irregularities are possible when the original AHP, or some of its additive variants, are used. Computational experiments on random test problems and an examination of some real‐life case studies suggest that these ranking irregularities are dramatically likely to occur. This paper also proves that these ranking irregularities are not possible when a multiplicative variant of the AHP is used. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Physiological assessment of paroxysmal dystonia secondary to subacute sclerosing panencephalitis
Authors: Ondo William G. , Verma Amit
Published: August 2002

We report on a 26‐year‐old woman with subacute sclerosing panencephalitis (SSPE) who presented with frequent paroxysmal dystonic posturing. Electroencephalogram demonstrated generalized 5 to 10‐second episodes of high‐amplitude (150–300 μV) delta activity alternating with 10 to 20‐second periods of theta activity (40–50 μV). The patient experienced episodes of dystonic posturing coinciding with the periods of delta activity. Ictal Tc‐99m Ceretec SPECT demonstrated marked increased activity in the bilateral caudate (R>L). The frequency and amplitude of the episodes initially markedly improved after the addition of carbamazepine. We suggest that the movements seen in this case of SSPE may represent basal ganglia ictal activity. © 2001 Movement Disorder Society.
Novel Italian family supports clinical and genetic heterogeneity of primary adult‐onset torsion dystonia
Authors: Brancati Francesco , Defazio Giovanni , Caputo Viviana , Valente Enza Maria , Pizzuti Antonio , Livrea Paolo , Berardelli Alfredo , Dallapiccola Bruno
Published: August 2002

We report on an Italian kindred with adult‐onset primary torsion dystonia (PTD). A detailed clinical examination of the six definitely affected family members revealed a mild, purely focal phenotype. The disease involved only one body part (eyes, neck, or arm). PTD in this family was not linked to the known disease loci (DYT1, DYT6, DYT7, and DYT13), and the 3‐bp deletion in the DYT1 gene was also excluded. These findings support genetic heterogeneity of PTD and indicate that a novel unassigned gene is responsible for focal dystonia in this family. © 2002 Movement Disorder Society.
Prospective clinical study of writer's cramp
Authors: Jedynak Pierre C. , Tranchant Christine , Zegers de Beyl Diederik
Published: August 2002

Sixty‐five consecutive patients with writer's cramp were studied prospectively to evaluate clinical and demographic features, the number of writing hours per day at dystonia onset, and the existence of trigger events. Assessment of writing and drawing was done on a standardized test using categorical scales. The importance of subjective handicap and pain, of postural and action tremor, the abnormal features of hand grip and the occurrence of mirror dystonia (dystonia occurring in the dominant hand when writing with the other hand) were studied. Thirty‐two patients had simple writer's cramp, whereas the others had complex writer's cramp with several activities other than writing involved. No significant differences were seen in age of onset, legibility, pain, and handicap in these two groups. Seven patients had a family history of focal dystonia and six of them had a complex form of writer's cramp. Mirror dystonia was seen in 29 patients and in some it appeared useful to distinguish dystonic movements from secondary compensatory strategies. © 2001 Movement Disorder Society.
Idazoxan, an alpha‐2 antagonist, and L‐DOPA‐induced dyskinesias in patients with Parkinson's disease
Authors: Rascol O. , Arnulf I. , Peyro‐Saint Paul H. , Brefel‐Courbon C. , Vidailhet M. , Thalamas C. , Bonnet A.M. , Descombes S. , Bejjani B. , Fabre N. , Montastruc J.L. , Agid Y.
Published: August 2002

Dyskinesia is a frequent and disabling side effect in patients with Parkinson's disease treated with chronic dopatherapy. Preclinical data in the 1‐methyl‐4‐phenyl‐1,2,3,6,‐tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) monkey suggest that alpha‐2 antagonists may reduce dihydroxyphenylalanine (L‐DOPA)‐induced dyskinesia. We assessed, in a pilot randomised placebo‐controlled study, the effects of single oral doses (10 mg, 20 mg, and 40 mg) of idazoxan, an alpha‐2 antagonist, on motor parkinsonian disability and L‐DOPA‐induced dyskinesia following an acute oral challenge of L‐DOPA in 18 patients with Parkinson's disease. The severity of L‐DOPA‐induced dyskinesia improved after 20 mg idazoxan pretreatment, while there was no concommittant deterioration in the antiparkinsonian response to L‐DOPA. These results suggest that blocking alpha‐2 receptors in patients with Parkinson's disease might improve L‐DOPA‐induced dyskinesia without the cost of a return of parkinsonian symptomatology. Further studies are required to assess whether this property could have potential therapeutic applications in the long‐term management of dyskinetic patients with Parkinson's disease. © 2001 Movement Disorder Society.
Restoring voluntary urinary voiding using a latissimus dorsi muscle free flap for bladder reconstruction
Authors: Stenzl Arnulf , Ninkovic Milomir
Published: August 2002

We present our data using innervated latissimus dorsi muscle (LDM) free flaps to assist acontractile bladder function. Twelve dogs were used. In group I (n = 3), the LDM flaps were elevated and wrapped around silicon reservoirs; in group II (n = 4), the LDM flaps were transferred into the pelvis and used to reconstruct bladders that had 50% of their detrusor muscle wall removed; group III (n = 5) was the same setup as group II but the bladder mucosa was also removed with 50% detrusor wall. The LDM flaps were electrically stimulated and electromyography, cystography, urodynamic, and hydrodynamic measurements were performed. In clinical studies, LDM flaps were used in 11 patients (age range, 9–68 years). Our animal studies demonstrated that LDM flaps are capable of generating pressures (190 cm H2O at 15 mL and 35 cm H2O at a 10 mL in group I at 6 months) to void the bladder. In group II, contractions were present after 9 months. Eight of 11 patients who underwent LDM free flap were able to void voluntarily and without catheterization. LDM flap activity was confirmed using ultrasonography/tomography. Our clinical studies indicated that contractile function can be restored using LDM free flaps. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc. MICROSURGERY 21:235–240 2001
Definition of effective diversity gain and how to measure it in a reverberation chamber
Authors: Kildal Per‐Simon , Rosengren Kent , Byun Joonho , Lee Juhyung
Published: August 2002

The performance of cellular phones and other mobile or wireless terminals operating in multipath propagation environment can be greatly improved by introducing different diversity schemes. The improvement is characterized in terms of a diversity gain. An effective diversity gain is defined here. This is an absolute measure of diversity gain and can therefore be used to compare different diversity antennas. The Letter also shows how the effective diversity gain can be measured in a reverberation chamber. Measured effective diversity gains agree much better with theoretical diversity gains than measured values published previously. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 34: 56–59, 2002; Published online in Wiley InterScience (www.interscience.wiley.com). DOI 10.1002/mop.10372
A shorted microstrip antenna for 2.4/5.2 GHz dual‐band operation
Authors: Tung Hao‐Chun , Wong Kin‐Lu
Published: August 2002

A novel dual‐band shorted microstrip antenna suitable for 2.4 and 5.2 GHz operation is presented. The obtained impedance bandwidths for the two operating frequencies meet the bandwidth requirements of the wireless LAN (2400–2484 MHz) and HIPERLAN (5150–5350 MHz) systems. The lower and upper operating frequencies are the first two resonant frequencies of the proposed antenna, and the antenna length is approximately equal to one‐quarter wavelength of the lower operating frequency at 2.4 GHz. The antenna has a low profile (4 mm in height), and occupies a small area of 18×27 mm2. The design considerations and radiation characteristics of the proposed antenna are presented. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Microwave Opt Technol Lett 30: 401–402, 2001.
Prevalence of thrombophilia and central venous catheter‐associated neck vein thrombosis in 41 children with cancer—a prospective study
Authors: Ruud Ellen , Holmstrøm Henrik , Natvig Solveig , Wesenberg Finn
Published: August 2002

Background

This study was designed to prospectively evaluate the prevalence of thrombophilia and central venous catheter‐associated neck vein thrombosis in children with cancer.

Procedure

Children with cancer and central lines, treated at the National Hospital in Norway, were consecutively enrolled in the study. Biochemical analysis of thrombophilia and Doppler ultrasonography of neck veins were performed at inclusion, and ultrasonography was repeated 3–5 months later. We recorded systematically positive blood‐cultures and days with intravenous antibiotics. In a subgroup of 13 patients with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia, the thrombophilia parameters were re‐evaluated during asparaginase therapy.

Results

Forty‐one children were included in the study and observed for a mean of 266 days (range 95–569 days). Eighteen patients (44%) developed venous thrombosis (VT), visualized by Doppler ultrasonography of the catheterized vein. Some clots were transient, but blood clots with diameters  > 0.5 cm (n = 11) had a tendency to remain (P = 0.14). Twelve children (29%) were classified as thrombophilic at inclusion, with elevated serum levels of homocysteine and lipoprotein (a) as the most frequent alterations. Transient thrombophilia developed in all patients during asparaginase‐therapy. Within the limitations of our study, we did not find any significant correlation between thrombophilia and development of VT, nor thrombosis and infectious disease.

Conclusions

VT develops frequently in paediatric cancer patients with central lines, but the clinical implication of this observation remains to be clarified. Med Pediatr Oncol 2002;38:405–410. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.