bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recovery of health related quality of life after radical prostatectomy in Japanese men: A longitudinal study
Authors: NAMIKI SHUNICHI , TOCHIGI TATSUO , KUWAHARA MASAAKI , IORITANI NAOMASA , YOSHIMURA KOJI , TERAI AKITO , NAKAGAWA HARUO , ISHIDOYA SHIGETO , SATOH MAKOTO , ITO AKIHIRO , SAITO SEIICHI , KOINUMA NOBUO , ARAI YOICHI
Published: September 2004

Abstract Background: We performed a longitudinal survey of health related quality of life (HRQOL) after radical retropubic prostatectomy (RP) in Japanese men with localized prostate cancer.

Methods: The present study started with self‐reported HRQOL assessments provided by 72 patients who received only RP. The RAND 36‐Item Health Survey and the University of California, Los Angeles Prostate Cancer Index were administered before and 3, 6 and 12 months after RP.

Results: Patients who underwent RP showed problems in some domains of general HRQOL, but these problems diminished over time. Urinary function declined substantially at 3 months and continued to recover at 6 and 12 months, but scored lower than the baseline. Urinary bother at 3 months had a significant decrease, but at six months it turned out to be the same as the baseline. The data of sexual function and bother showed a substantially lower score after RP. The sexual bother score of the younger men was significantly worse than that of the older men. Those who underwent nerve sparing procedures experienced significantly better recovery of urinary and sexual functions than the non‐nerve sparing group.

Conclusion: Despite reports of problems with sexuality and urinary continence, general HRQOL was mostly unaffected by RP after 6 months. Although there was a substantial decrease in urinary function, recovery from urinary bother was rapid. Deterioration of the sexual domain was remarkable throughout the postoperative period. Therefore, careful attention should be given to preoperative counseling, especially for younger patients.
Anatomical reconsideration to renal area: Lessons learned from radical nephrectomy or adrenalectomy through a minimal incision over the 12th rib
Authors: KATO HARUAKI , KIYOKAWA HIDEO , INOUE HIROO , KOBAYASHI SHINYA , NISHIZAWA OSAMU
Published: September 2004

Abstract Background: To perform radical nephrectomy or adrenalectomy through a minimal incision over the 12th rib and to compare this with the traditional supracostal or transcostal approach. We review and clarify the related surgical anatomy through close observation.

Methods: We performed radical nephrectomy in six patients with upper urinary tract carcinoma through a minimal incision over the 12th rib and in five patients with renal cell carcinoma through a medium‐sized incision, and adrenalectomy in five patients (bilaterally in one) again through a minimal incision over the 12th rib. During surgery, special points were noted to find out the differences between the new minimal‐incision approach and the conventional approach.

Results: The procedures were accomplished smoothly with no complications through either a minimal or medium‐sized incision. From our observation, it is clear that most of the procedures involved in the minimal‐incision approach were and should be carried out within the space created in the retroperitoneum beneath the lateroconal fascia.

Conclusion: Entering the correct anatomical planes posteriorly and anteriorly in the renal fasciae is a prerequisite for full mobilization of the kidney, together with the perinephric fat. To perform this, recognition of the lateroconal fascia and incising it along the correct lines are of the utmost importance for minimal‐incision radical nephrectomy and adrenalectomy. Furthermore, this anatomical approach is also important for the conventional open approach and laparoscopic approach.
Intestinal perforation after cadaveric renal transplantation
Authors: NOMURA TAKEO , TASAKI YOSHIHISA , HIRATA YUJI , EMOTO AKIO , YAMASAKI MUTSUSHI , MIMATA HIROMITSU , NOMURA YOSHIO
Published: September 2004

AbstractWe performed cadaveric renal transplantation on a 46‐year‐old man on long‐term hemodialysis. Methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) enterocolitis occurred on the fifth postoperative day and severe intestinal ulceration and perforation followed. Subtotal abdominal colectomy and the simultaneous removal of the transplant were performed. Postoperatively, disseminated intravascular coagulopathy with pancytopenia and cerebral hemorrhagic infarction developed and the patient died 40 days later.
Transperineal interstitial permanent prostate brachytherapy for Japanese prostate cancer patients in Hawaii
Authors: MORITA MASASHI , LEDERER JOHN L , FUKAGAI TAKASHI , SHIMADA MAKOTO , YOSHIDA HIDEKI
Published: September 2004

Abstract Background: Our aim was to report clinical and biochemical outcomes of transperineal interstitial permanent prostate brachytherapy in the treatment of Japanese patients with clinically organ‐confined prostate cancer in Hawaii.

Methods: Ninety‐five Japanese patients underwent transperineal interstitial permanent prostate brachytherapy using either iodine‐125 or palladium‐103 for clinical T1c–T2b N0 M0 prostate cancer. These procedures were carried out between December 1998 and December 2002 at The Queen's Medical Center in Honolulu, Hawaii. Prostate‐specific antigen measurements were collected from all patients at follow up. Biochemical failure was defined by three consecutive rises in prostate‐specific antigen levels, based on the criteria of the American Society for Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology Consensus panel.

Results: The median patient age was 71 years (range, 46–87 years). Thirty‐six patients were implanted with either iodine‐125 or palladium‐103 as monotherapy; 59 patients received moderate‐dose external beam irradiation first, followed by a prostate brachytherapy boost. The median follow‐up length, calculated from the day of implantation, was 801 days (range, 237–1421 days). During this follow‐up period, The Kaplan–Meier estimate of freedom from biochemical failure in this series was 94%. No major complications were observed.

Conclusions: Clinical and biochemical outcomes in the treatment of Japanese patients in Hawaii suffering from localized prostate cancer, using transperineal interstitial permanent prostate brachytherapy, with or without external beam irradiation, compared favorably to results in similarly treated patients in the general US population.
Advances in the management of non‐seminomatous germ cell tumors during the cisplatin era: A single‐institution experience
Authors: MURAMAKI MOTOTSUGU , HARA ISAO , MIYAKE HIDEAKI , YAMADA YUJI , KAWABATA GAKU , KAMIDONO SADAO
Published: September 2004

Abstract Background: The objectives of the present study were to review chronological changes in the long‐term survival of patients with non‐seminomatous germ cell tumor (NSGCT) who were treated at a single institution after the introduction of cisplatin‐based combination chemotherapy.

Methods: One hundred and twenty patients with NSGCT who were treated between January 1978 and October 2001 were enrolled in this study. To evaluate chronological changes in treatment outcome between 1978 and 2001, data were analyzed according to the timing of initial treatment in two consecutive 12‐year periods. The numbers of patients who were treated during 1978–1989 and 1990–2001 were 59 and 61, respectively. Patients were classified according to criteria of both the Japanese Urological Association (JUA classification) and the International Germ Cell Cancer Collaborative Group (IGCCCG classification).

Results: The mean follow up of surviving patients during the periods 1978–1989 and 1990–2001 was 84 months and 63 months, respectively. The overall 5‐year survival rate of patients with NSGCT significantly increased from 72.8% during the period 1978–1989 to 83.6% during the period 1990–2001 (P = 0.02, log‐rank test). A significant improvement in survival was found in the patients with stage III disease, according to the JUA classification, and in the patients with poor‐risk disease, according to the IGCCCG classification (P = 0.004 and 0.05, respectively).

Conclusions: The overall 5‐year survival rate of patients with NSGCT increased significantly from 72.8% during 1978–1989 to 83.6% during 1990–2001. This improvement resulted mainly from an increased survival of patients with metastatic poor‐risk NSGCT.
Early experience of laparoscopic radical nephrectomy for T3b renal cell carcinoma
Authors: SEO ILL YOUNG , ONO YOSHINARI , YOSHIKAWA YOKO , SAIKA TAKASHI , YOSHINO YASUSHI , KATSUNO SATOSHI , ARAKI HIDEMORI , OHSHIMA SHINICHI
Published: September 2004

Abstract We report our experience with laparoscopic radical nephrectomy for a 79‐year‐old man who had renal cell carcinoma (RCC) with a renal vein thrombus. For the transaction of the renal vein with the thrombus, we used an endoscopic gastrointestinal anastomosis stapler. The operating time was 4 h and blood loss was 400 mL. The patient could walk and drink on the first postoperative day. He recovered normal activity 30 days postoperatively. There were no intraoperative and postoperative complications. The present report demonstrates the feasibility of laparoscopic radical nephrectomy in patients with T3b RCC who suffer from tumor thrombus in the renal vein.
Clinical outcome of retroperitoneal lymph node dissection after induction chemotherapy for metastatic non‐seminomatous germ cell tumors
Authors: MURAMAKI MOTOTSUGU , HARA ISAO , MIYAKE HIDEAKI , YAMADA YUJI , OKADA HIROSHI , KAMIDONO SADAO
Published: September 2004

Abstract Background: Retroperitoneal lymph node dissection (RPLND) following induction chemotherapy has been considered a critical component in the comprehensive management of advanced non‐seminomatous germ cell tumors (NSGCT). The objectives of the present study were to review the clinical outcome of patients who underwent RPLND and to evaluate the probability of necrosis alone, based on some readily available clinical data for these patients.

Methods: Forty‐seven consecutive patients with NSGCT were treated with first‐line chemotherapy at our institution between January 1993 and September 2002. Twenty‐four of these patients, who underwent RPLND with normal values of tumor markers after induction chemotherapy, were included in the study. The cause‐specific survival rate was calculated using the Kaplan–Meier method. Various predictive factors for the histology were analyzed using multivariate analysis.

Results: The pathological findings at resection were necrosis alone in 62.5% of cases, teratoma in 25.0%, and viable cancer in 12.5%. The cause‐specific 3‐year survival rate of patients who underwent complete and incomplete resection was 100% and 50.0%, respectively. Among several clinical factors, prechemotherapy tumor size less than 50 mm was found to be an independent predictor of necrosis alone (hazard ratio = 4.45, P= 0.04).

Conclusion: Metastatic tumor size before chemotherapy appears to be one of the most important factors for the prediction of necrosis alone in the resected specimens of RPLND. The prognosis of patients might be influenced by the degree to which resection has been completed.
The female partner's satisfaction with sildenafil citrate treatment of erectile dysfunction
Authors: ICHIKAWA TAKAHARU , TAKAO AKIRA , MANABE DAISUKE , SAEGUSA MICHIHISA , TANIMOTO RYUTA , ARAMAKI KENJI , YAMAMOTO MASAYA , OKAZAKI TOSHIYA
Published: September 2004

Abstract Background: Data on female partners’ satisfaction are scarce, although there have been many articles on patient satisfaction after sildenafil citrate treatment. The aim of this study was to evaluate the satisfaction of female partners of patients receiving sildenafil citrate for their erectile dysfunction (ED) and to assess the female partners’ sexual function.

Methods: Ninety‐eight patients with ED were treated. Their female partners were asked to answer a questionnaire we have prepared to evaluate the efficacy of treatment, sexual satisfaction and changes in quality of life. It also included a question about female sexual function. From the results, the relationship between their female partner's satisfaction and efficacy of treatment, as well as female sexual function, were assessed.

Results: Thirty (31%) questionnaires were returned to us for analysis. Effectiveness of the treatment was acknowledged by 90% of the partners. An improvement in their partner's quality of life was noticed by 60% of the women. The majority (66.7%) of the female partners were satisfied with sildenafil citrate treatment and 20% were disappointed. Moreover, 20% of the female partners were concerned about adverse events. Regarding female sexual function, some form of sexual dysfunction affected 46.7% of the women. Furthermore, a significant number (P = 0.0230) of the female partners disappointed with the treatment had some kind of sexual dysfunction.

Conclusions: The results indicated that female partners reported relatively high levels of treatment satisfaction. Female partners’ sexual function and anxiety regarding adverse events should be evaluated when their satisfaction with sildenafil citrate treatment is poor despite an improvement of erectile function.
Portless endoscopic radical nephrectomy via a single minimum incision in 80 patients
Authors: KIHARA KAZUNORI , KAGEYAMA YUKIO , YANO MASATAKA , KOBAYASHI TSUYOSHI , KAWAKAMI SATORU , FUJII YASUHISA , MASUDA HITOSHI , HYOCHI NOBUHIKO
Published: September 2004

Abstract Aim: To assess the feasibility of our portless endoscopic radical nephrectomy via a single minimum incision, which narrowly permitted extraction of the specimen in the initial 80 patients.

Methods: Radical nephrectomy was carried out extraperitoneally in patients with T1–3aN0M0 renal tumors using an endoscope through a single minimum incision without trocar ports and gas. All the instruments used were reusable.

Results: The average length of incision, operative time and estimated blood loss were 6.6 cm (range, 4–9 cm), 3. 1 h (range, 1.7–5.6 h) and 324 mL (range, 10–2288 mL), respectively. The complication rate was 2.5% (2/80); complications included injury of the pleura and hemorrhage from the vena cava, both of which were repaired by suture during operation. Transfusion was performed in three patients (3.8%). Average times to oral feeding and walking were both 1.4 days. Wound pain was minimal and analgesics were generally not required by the second postoperative day. In patients with larger incisions (7 cm or more), estimated blood loss increased (approximately 100 mL on average) and oral feeding resumed later (0.3 days on average), relative to patients with smaller incisions (6 cm or less). However, overall results were similar between the two patient groups. In patients with a large tumor (7 cm or greater), operative time did not increase and complications and transfusions were both avoided.

Conclusion: Portless endoscopic radical nephrectomy via a single minimum incision is a safe, reproducible, cost‐effective and minimally invasive treatment option for patients with T1–3aN0M0 renal tumors.
Portless endoscopic adrenalectomy via a single minimal incision using a retroperitoneal approach: Experience with initial 30 cases
Authors: KAGEYAMA YUKIO , KIHARA KAZUNORI , KOBAYASHI TSUYOSHI , KAWAKAMI SATORU , FUJII YASUHISA , MASUDA HITOSHI , YANO MASATAKA , HYOCHI NOBUHIKO
Published: September 2004

Abstract Aim: To assess the feasibility of portless endoscopic adrenalectomy via a single minimum incision that narrowly permits extraction of the specimen.

Methods: For  30 cases of adrenal tumor, portless endoscopic surgery through a single flank incision (3–9 cm; mean, 5.6 cm) was performed without gas inflation or trocar port placement. All of the instruments used during surgery were reusable. The cases included primary aldosteronism (12), Cushing's syndrome (6), preclinical Cushing's syndrome (3), pheochromocytoma (1), non‐functioning cortical adenoma (6), adrenocortical carcinoma (1) and adrenocortical hemorrhage (1).

Results: Resection of the tumor was successfully completed, without complications, in all of the cases. Operative time was between 83 and 240 min (mean, 147 min). Estimated blood loss was 5–470 mL (mean, 139 mL). None of the patients required blood transfusion. Postoperative course was uneventful. Wound pain was mild and walking and full oral feeding were resumed on the first and second postoperative day, respectively, in the majority of cases.

Conclusions: Adrenal tumors are good candidates for portless endoscopic surgery, which is safe, cost‐effective, minimally invasive and matches favorably with laparoscopic surgery.
The regional significance of Cretaceous magmatism and metamorphism in Fiordland, New Zealand, from U–Pb zircon geochronology
Authors: Hollis J. A. , Clarke G. L. , Klepeis K. A. , Daczko N. R. , Ireland T. R.
Published: September 2004

The western Fiordland Orthogneiss (WFO) is an extensive composite metagabbroic to dioritic arc batholith that was emplaced at c. 20–25 km crustal depth into Palaeozoic and Mesozoic gneiss during collision and accretion of the arc with the Mesozoic Pacific Gondwana margin. Sensitive high‐resolution ion microprobe U–Pb zircon data from central and northern Fiordland indicate that WFO plutons were emplaced throughout the early Cretaceous (123.6 ± 3.0, 121.8 ± 1.7, 120.0 ± 2.6 and 115.6 ± 2.4 Ma). Emplacement of the WFO synchronous with regional deformation and collisional‐style orogenesis is illustrated by (i) coeval ages of a post‐D1 dyke (123.6 ± 3.0 Ma) and its host pluton (121.8 ± 1.7 Ma) at Mt Daniel and (ii) coeval ages of pluton emplacement and metamorphism/deformation of proximal paragneiss in George and Doubtful Sounds. The coincidence emplacement and metamorphic ages indicate that the WFO was regionally significant as a heat source for amphibolite to granulite facies metamorphism. The age spectra of detrital zircon populations were characterized for four paragneiss samples. A paragneiss from Doubtful Sound shows a similar age spectrum to other central Fiordland and Westland paragneiss and SE Australian Ordovician sedimentary rocks, with age peaks at 600–500 and 1100–900 Ma, a smaller peak at c. 1400 Ma, and a minor Archean component. Similarly, one sample of the George Sound paragneiss has a significant Palaeozoic to Archean age spectrum, however zircon populations from the George Sound paragneiss are dominated by Permo‐Triassic components and thus are markedly different from any of those previously studied in Fiordland.
Unusual Hf contents in metamorphic zircon from coesite‐bearing eclogites of the Dabie Mountains, east‐central China: implications for the dating of ultrahigh‐pressure metamorphism
Authors: Wang X. , Griffin W. L.
Published: September 2004

Metamorphic zircon from coesite‐bearing eclogites in the Dabie Mountains encloses high‐P phases, and may have formed at the peak of ultrahigh‐pressure (UHP) metamorphism. Morphologically, the metamorphic zircon typically occurs as small, multi‐faceted, near‐spherical grains with homogeneous internal structure and weak backscattered electron (BSE) luminescence. Geochemically, it is characterized by extremely high and relatively constant contents of hafnium (Hf) and very low contents of Y, U and Th, reflecting the contraction of the zircon lattice under the UHP conditions. High contents of Hf may be characteristic of zircon formed during UHP metamorphism, which has important consequences for interpretation of geochronological results. We propose that the metamorphic zircon extremely enriched in Hf may be used to date the peak of UHP metamorphism that produced the coesite‐bearing eclogites in the Dabie Mountains, and potentially in other UHP terranes.
Microstructural features of albite porphyroblasts as indicators of sequential Barrovian metamorphic mineral growth in the Caledonides of the SW Scottish Highlands
Authors: Mathavan V. , Bowes D. R.
Published: September 2004

Inclusion – porphyroblast and porphyroblast – porphyroblast relationships show that abundant albite in mica schists in the Caledonides of the SW Scottish Highlands are part of the Barrovian metamorphic assemblage. Growth early in the D2 deformational phase of porphyroblast cores followed the growth of Mn‐rich garnet but preceded the growth of porphyroblasts of the index mineral almandine. Two sets of inclusion trails in the albite correspond to the regionally expressed S1 and S2. Straight trails of muscovite, chlorite, quartz, epidote and the earliest growth of biotite make up S1. Crenulated trails express deformation of S1 early in D2 with muscovite, chlorite, biotite, quartz, epidote and the Mn‐rich garnet associated with the development of S2 crenulation cleavage. The geometries of these trails uniquely record early stages of D2 deformational history. An 0−3 growth is related to the temporal coincidence of the formation of S1–S2 crenulation cleavage hinges as favourable sites for nucleation and the release of large amounts of water from prograde reactions during tectonothermal reconstitution of first cycle immature sediments with a volcanic component. The main characteristics of the regionally expressed D2 schistosity were developed during the major grain coarsening that followed both albite and almandine porphyroblast growth. Essentially inclusion‐free An 4−19 rims grew on the inclusion‐containing cores in the almandine zone in the later stages of schistosity growth and unoriented porphyroblasts of muscovite, biotite and chlorite indicate that mineral growth extended from the later stages of D2 to post‐D2. Previous interpretations of the albite porphyroblast growth having been during D4 to post‐D4 contemporaneous with retrogression are inconsistent with the microstructural evidence.
The fate of subducted continental margins: Two‐stage exhumation of the high‐pressure to ultrahigh‐pressure Western Gneiss Region, Norway
Authors: Walsh E. O. , Hacker B. R.
Published: September 2004

Thermobarometry suggests that ultrahigh‐pressure (UHP) to high‐pressure (HP) rocks across the Western Gneiss Region ponded at the Moho following as much as 100 km of exhumation through the mantle and before exhumation to the upper crust. Eclogite across the c. 22 000 km2 study area records minimum pressures of c. 8–18 kbar and temperatures of c. 650–780 °C. One orthopyroxene eclogite yields an UHP of c. 28.5 kbar, and evidence of former coesite has been found c. 50 km farther east than previously known. Despite this widespread evidence of UHP to HP, thermobarometry of metapelite and garnet amphibolite samples reveals a surprisingly uniform ‘supra‐Barrovian’ amphibolite‐facies overprint at c. 11 kbar and c. 650–750 °C across the entire area. Chemical zoning analysis suggests that garnet in these samples grew during heating and decompression, presumably during the amphibolite‐facies event. These data indicate that the Norwegian UHP/HP province was exhumed from mantle depths of c. 150 km to lower crustal depths, where it stalled and underwent a profound high‐temperature overprint. The ubiquity of late‐stage supra‐Barrovian metamorphic overprints suggests that large‐scale, collisional UHP terranes routinely stall at the continental Moho where diminishing body forces are exceeded by boundary forces. Significant portions of the middle or lower crust worldwide may be formed from UHP terranes that were arrested at the Moho and never underwent their final stage of exhumation.
Oxytocin Modulates Nitric Oxide Generation by Human Fetal Membranes at Term Pregnancy
Authors: Ticconi C. , Zicari A. , Realacci M. , Di Vito M. , Denora P. , Narcisi M. , Russo M. A. , Piccione E.
Published: September 2004

Problem:  Nitric oxide (NO), an important mediator of the inflammatory response, is involved in several reproductive processes including pregnancy and labor. Uterus, placenta and fetal membranes are significant sources of NO. Presently, there is no information on factors regulating NO production by fetal membranes.

Method of study:  Human fetal membranes at term gestation were cultured for 24 hr in the presence of oxytocin. The concentrations of NO metabolites nitrites in culture medium were determined by the Griess reaction. The presence of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) was determined by reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction and Western blot.

Results:  Oxytocin increased nitrite release by fetal membranes. Messenger ribonucleic acid iNOS expression was also enhanced by oxytocin. These effects were more marked in tissues obtained after labor than before labor.

Conclusions:  Oxytocin exerts an overall stimulatory effect on NO release by fetal membranes. This action might be of relevance in the biomolecular processes leading to parturition.
T Helper Cell Cytokine Profiles in Preterm Labor
Authors: Hollier Lisa M. , Rivera Marta K. , Henninger Evelyn , Gilstrap Larry C. , Marshall Gailen D.
Published: September 2004

Problem:  To compare concentrations of T‐helper cell cytokines in women with preterm labor (PTL) to normal pregnancies.

Method of study:  Fourteen women with PTL and 13 women with normal pregnancies from 24 to 34 weeks were enrolled in this pilot study. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and cervical secretions were collected. PBMCs were cultured and stimulated with mitogens. Culture supernatants and cervical secretions were assayed for type 1 (interferon‐γ, IL‐12) and type 2 cytokines (IL‐4, IL‐5, IL‐10 and IL‐13) using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays.

Results:  There were no intergroup differences in median cytokine concentrations in PBMC cultures, or in ratios of type 1/type 2 cytokines. In cervical secretions, the median concentration of IL‐4 was significantly higher in control patients.

Conclusions:  PTL patients appeared to have an altered T‐helper cytokine balance in cervical secretions. Further study of the role of cytokines produced in the adaptive response appears warranted.
Effect of Peptidoglycan–Polysaccharide Complex on Reproductive Efficiency in Sheep
Authors: Holásková Ida , Lewis Gregory S. , Elliott Meenal , Blemings Kenneth P. , Dailey Robert A.
Published: September 2004

Problem:  Spontaneous mastitis or induced infections mimicking mastitis reduce pregnancy rates in ruminants. The effect of immunization with either a mastitis‐related pathogen component, peptidoglycan–polysaccharide (PG–PS), or killed Streptococcus pyogenes on pregnancy outcome was investigated.

Method of study:  Ewe lambs were immunized with PG–PS (n = 50) or killed bacteria (n = 50) or were not immunized (control, n = 100). Titers of PG–PS immunoglobulin G (IgG) were detected by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Ewes were bred by rams at synchronized estrus. All immunized ewes and half of the ewes not immunized were challenged with PG–PS on day 5 after breeding. Pregnancy maintenance was evaluated.

Results:  Although the proportion of ewes pregnant at day 42 after breeding did not differ among treatments, the probability of pregnancy decreased with total dose of PG–PS (P < 0.05).

Conclusions:  Immunization of ewe lambs with PG–PS or killed S. pyogenes did not improve pregnancy maintenance. Furthermore, the toxic streptococcal component decreased pregnancy rate in immunized sheep in a dose‐dependent manner.
The Differential Effect of Genetic Variation on Soluble CD14 Levels in Human Plasma and Milk
Authors: Guerra Stefano , Carla Lohman I. , LeVan Tricia D. , Wright Anne L. , Martinez Fernando D. , Halonen Marilyn
Published: September 2004

Problem:  The protein CD14 is a pattern recognition receptor for bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Whether genetic variation has the same influence on soluble CD14 (sCD14) levels in human plasma and milk remains to be determined.

Method of study:  We measured sCD14 levels in plasma during pregnancy (n = 196) and in milk in the postpartum (n = 152) for women genotyped for the single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) at positions −1619, −550, and −159 from the transcription start site of the CD14 gene.

Results:  Plasma‐ and milk‐sCD14 levels differed significantly both by CD14/−1619 and CD14/−550 genotypes and by haplotypes. Most interestingly, sCD14 levels were regulated differentially by the same genetic variants in plasma and milk, with the CD14/−550T allele and the corresponding are ATC haplotype associated with high sCD14 in milk but low sCD14 in plasma. A correlation between sCD14 levels in plasma and milk was absent (r = 0.091, P = NS).

Conclusions:  Our findings suggest the existence of cell‐specific regulation mechanisms of CD14 gene expression.
Interleukin‐1β‐induced Expression of IL‐6 and Production of Human Chorionic Gonadotropin in Human Trophoblast Cells via Nuclear Factor‐κB Activation
Authors: Tsukihara Satoru , Harada Tasuku , Deura Imari , Mitsunari Masahiro , Yoshida Souichi , Iwabe Tomio , Terakawa Naoki
Published: September 2004

Problem:  The cytokine, interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), stimulates the production of human chorionic gonadotropine (hCG) in chorionic cells. The purpose of this study was to examine the role of nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) during the induction of IL‐6 by IL‐1β in human trophoblast cells.

Method of study:  Reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction was used to determine the gene expressions of IL‐1, IL‐1 receptor (IL‐1R), IL‐6R and gp130 in a human choriocarcinoma cell line, BeWo. The BeWo cells were cultured for 24 hr with IL‐1β (0–10 ng/mL), IL‐1β (10 ng/mL) together with IL‐1 receptor antagonist (IL‐1Ra) or NF‐κB inhibitor, N‐tocyl‐l‐phenylalanine chloromethyl ketone (TPCK). The concentrations of IL‐6 in culture supernatants were measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.

Results:  The gene expressions of IL‐1R, IL‐6R and gp130, but not IL‐1β, were observed. The concentration of IL‐6 was enhanced by IL‐1β in a dose‐dependent fashion. The addition of IL‐1Ra neutralized the effects of IL‐1β on IL‐6 secretion. IL‐1β induced expression of phosphorylated IκB and the activation of NF‐κB. The addition of TPCK reduced the IL‐1β‐induced IL‐6 expression. Adding IL‐1β increased β‐hCG production in a dose‐dependent manner, and the addition of TPCK neutralized the effect of IL‐1β.

Conclusion:  IL‐1β may induce the IL‐6 expression and hCG production in human BeWo cells via NF‐κB.
Assessing the Burdens of Leadership: Effects of Formal Leadership Roles on Individual Performance Over Time
Authors: Day David V. , Sin Hock‐Peng , Chen Tina T.
Published: September 2004

This study adopted a role‐based perspective in examining whether changes in performance over time (i.e., dynamic criteria) were a function of changes in individual leadership role responsibilities. Longitudinal data from captains in the modern era of the National Hockey League (N= 201) were used to test a dynamic criterion hypothesis using multilevel growth modeling. Time (k= 10) was modeled as a random effect, whereas captain status (i.e., leadership role responsibility) was included as a time‐varying covariate. Individual performance was measured as the adjusted points (goals scored plus assists adjusted for individual and historical effects). Results of a series of model building steps that included the examination of alternative complex error structures indicated an overall negative performance trend. Those seasons in which a player assumed formal leadership responsibilities (i.e., team captain) were associated with better performance compared to seasons in which the player had no leadership responsibilities. These results were found to be robust even after controlling for individual performance in the previous season. Results are discussed in terms of the possible positive implications for individual performance and the motivation to lead through developing a culture in which leadership positions are highly valued by the organization, visible to others on the team, and where leadership responsibilities do not interfere with task performance.
Measuring Job Interview Anxiety: Beyond Weak Knees and Sweaty Palms
Authors: McCarthy Julie , Goffin Richard
Published: September 2004

A multidimensional measure of interview anxiety, called the Measure of Anxiety in Selection Interviews (MASI), was developed using a student sample (N= 212) and tested using a sample of job applicants in a field setting (N= 276). The MASI goes beyond the measurement of “weak knees” and “sweaty palms” by providing an assessment of 5 interview anxiety dimensions: Communication, Appearance, Social, Performance, and Behavioral. The psychometric properties of the scales were strong and confirmatory factor analyses supported the a priori structure. In addition, substantial evidence for the concurrent, discriminant, criterion‐related, and incremental validity of the MASI was obtained. Moreover, a multiple correlation of .34 was found for the 5 MASI scales in the prediction of interview performance. The development of the MASI has important implications for the field, as it may provide the foundation for future research on job interview anxiety, guide interview anxiety treatment programs, and promote the enhancement of job interview validity.
Applicant Reactions to Selection Procedures: An Updated Model and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Hausknecht John P. , Day David V. , Thomas Scott C.
Published: September 2004

An updated theoretical model of applicant reactions to selection procedures is proposed and tested using meta‐analysis. Results from 86 independent samples (N= 48,750) indicated that applicants who hold positive perceptions about selection are more likely to view the organization favorably and report stronger intentions to accept job offers and recommend the employer to others. Applicant perceptions were positively correlated with actual and perceived performance on selection tools and with self‐perceptions. The average correlation between applicant perceptions and gender, age, and ethnic background was near zero. Face validity and perceived predictive validity were strong predictors of many applicant perceptions including procedural justice, distributive justice, attitudes towards tests, and attitudes towards selection. Interviews and work samples were perceived more favorably than cognitive ability tests, which were perceived more favorably than personality inventories, honesty tests, biodata, and graphology. The discussion identifies remaining theoretical and methodological issues as well as directions for future research.
Exploring Applicant Pool Quantity and Quality: The Effects of Early Recruitment Practice Strategies, Corporate Advertising, and Firm Reputation
Authors: Collins Christopher J. , Han Jian
Published: September 2004

Drawing on marketing and recruitment theory, we examined relationships among early recruitment practices, organizational factors, and organization‐level recruitment outcomes, predicting that low‐involvement recruitment practices, high‐involvement recruitment practices, corporate advertising, and firm reputation would positively affect the quantity and quality of organizations' applicant pools. We also predicted that corporate advertising and firm reputation would moderate the effects of the 2 recruitment strategies. Data for 99 organizations collected from multiple sources provided some evidence that early recruitment practices, corporate advertising, and firm reputation each had direct effects on applicant pool quantity and quality. More importantly, we found that low‐involvement recruitment practices were more effective for firms with relatively low levels of corporate advertising and firm reputation, whereas high‐involvement recruitment practices were more effective for firms with relatively high levels of advertising and reputation.
Job Seeking Among Retirees Seeking Bridge Employment
Authors: Adams Gary , Rau Barbara
Published: September 2004

Using a sample of recent retirees, the study described here sought to test the general propositions of the Wanberg, Watt, and Rumsey (1996) model by (a) including specific variables that are likely to be relevant to older adults seeking work after retirement (bridge employment) and (b) integrating more recent variable groups (e.g., situational constraints) suggested by recent research (e.g., Wanberg, Kanfer, & Rotundo (1999) and Kanfer, Wanberg, & Kantrowitz (2001). Generally, the results support the efficacy of the Wanberg et al. model to predict job seeking among this group. Biographical variables such as older worker job search constraints, self‐evaluations (e.g., job seeking self‐efficacy), and motive/social variables (e.g., social support) were related to job seeking. Some of these, however, were not in the expected direction. Similarities and differences between “regular” job seeking and bridge employment job seeking are discussed.
Modulation of visceral function by selective stimulation of the left vagus nerve in dogs
Authors: Rozman J. , Bunc M.
Published: September 2004

The superficial regions of the left vagus nerves of a dog were selectively stimulated with 39‐electrode spiral cuffs having 13 circumferential groups of three electrodes (GTE) to modulate the function of the innervated internal organs and glands. Under general anaesthesia, the cuffs were chronically implanted around the nerve in the neck in two adult Beagle dogs and remained viable for 16 months. The regions were stimulated with biphasic, rectangular current pulses (2 mA, 200 μs, 20 Hz) delivered to the group of GTE lying close to the region innervating the specific internal organs or glands. The results showed that specific electrode configurations had actions on the heart (GTE 9), lungs (GTE 4) and pressure in the urinary bladder (GTE 1). It was also shown that GTE no. 10 significantly modified the endocrine function of the pancreas. The results of this study clearly demonstrate that internal organs and glands can be selectively stimulated via the selective stimulation of innervating superficial regions of the autonomous peripheral nerve.
Do natriuretic peptides modify arterial baroreflexes in sheep?
Authors: Thomas Colleen J. , Woods Robyn L.
Published: September 2004

While atrial and B‐type natriuretic peptides (ANP and BNP) have been shown to enhance reflex responses attributed to cardiac vagal afferents, their effects on arterial baroreceptor reflex function remain controversial. The actions of C‐type natriuretic peptide (CNP) in this regard are unknown. To clarify their actions on arterial baroreflexes, we tested whether i.v. infusions of ANP, BNP or CNP at 10 pmol kg−1 min−1 modified the steady‐state mean arterial blood pressure–heart rate (MAP–HR) relationship in conscious sheep. At this dose, all three natriuretic peptides are known to enhance the cardiac chemoreflex response to phenylbiguanide (Bezold‐Jarisch reflex). Sigmoid MAP–HR relationships were constructed from the steady‐state responses to alternating injections of vasopressor (phenylephrine, 1–15 µg kg−1) and vasodepressor agents (nitroprusside, 1–15 µg kg−1) in the absence and presence of infused ANP, BNP or CNP (tested in random order at least 1 week apart). No parameter of the steady‐state baroreflex relationship was significantly altered by infusion of any of the three natriuretic peptides. We conclude that in conscious sheep, normal arterial baroreceptor–HR reflex function prevails in the presence of moderate doses of ANP, BNP or CNP.
Excretion of electrolytes in Brown Norway and Fischer 344 rats: effects of adrenalectomy and of mineralocorticoid and glucocorticoid receptor ligands
Authors: Marissal‐Arvy Nathalie , Mormède Pierre
Published: September 2004

Our previous studies showed that adrenalectomy (ADX) has surprisingly no effect on body weight and fluid intake in the Brown Norway rat strain, suggesting that mineralocorticoid receptor (MR)‐mediated effects are present even in absence of corticosteroids in this strain. Moreover, glucocorticoid receptor (GR)‐mediated mechanisms are more effective in Brown Norway than in Fischer 344 rats. Such functional differences in corticosteroid receptor pathways between Brown Norway and Fischer 344 rats led us to compare the effect of ADX and MR/GR‐mediated actions on sodium and potassium excretion between these two rat strains. To this end, we first measured the effect of an acute high dose of aldosterone on the urinary Na+/K+ concentration ratio in intact and ADX Brown Norway and Fischer 344 rats. Second, to discriminate mineralocorticoid from glucocorticoid actions, we treated chronically ADX rats with increasing doses of aldosterone or RU28362, a pure GR agonist, in the drinking fluid. As sodium homeostasis involves salt appetite regulation, behaviour under mineralocorticoid control, we also measured saline preference in Brown Norway and Fischer 344 rats. Our data illustrate: (1) the very limited effect of ADX on body weight, food and fluid intake, diuresis, natriuresis, kaliuresis and salt appetite in Brown Norway rats, supporting the presence of MR signalling pathways in the absence of adrenal steroids in these rats; (2) the insensitivity of MR to aldosterone in intact Brown Norway rats, and the reduced sensitivity of MR to aldosterone in ADX Brown Norway rats compared with ADX Fischer 344 rats; and (3) the greater sensitivity of GR‐related mechanisms to RU28362 in Brown Norway than in Fischer 344 rats in terms of body weight gain and electrolyte excretion. Considering that both MRs and GRs regulate hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis processes, such functional differences in corticosteroid receptors could be at the origin, at least partly, of the strain differences in corticotropic activity/reactivity to stress previously described.
Hypo‐osmotic potentiation of acetylcholine‐stimulated ciliary beat frequency through ATP release in rat tracheal ciliary cells
Authors: Kawakami Manpei , Nagira Tomoyoshi , Hayashi Tetsuya , Shimamoto Chikao , Kubota Takahiro , Mori Hiroshi , Yoshida Hideyo , Nakahari Takashi
Published: September 2004

The ciliary beat frequency (CBF) of rat tracheal ciliary cells in a slice preparation was measured using video‐enhanced contrast (VEC) microscopy. Acetylcholine (ACh) increased CBF mediated via intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) in a dose‐dependent manner. An adequate hypo‐osmotic stress (−40 mosm) potentiated ACh‐stimulated CBF increase in tracheal ciliary cells and shifted the ACh dose–response curve to the left (lower concentration side). This potentiation was independent of hypo‐osmotic stresses applied ranging from −20 mosM to −90 mosM. A hypo‐osmotic stress induces ATP release in many cell types. The present study demonstrated that suramin (an inhibitor of purinergic receptors) and apyrase (an ATPase/ADPase) eliminate the hypo‐osmotic potentiation of ACh‐stimulated CBF increase and that ATP increased [Ca2+]i and CBF, as well as potentiating ACh‐stimulated rises in [Ca2+]i and CBF increase. Moreover, the apical surface of tracheal ciliary cells were stained immunopositive for the P2X4 purinergic receptor. A hypo‐osmotic stress (−40 mosM) transiently increased [Ca2+]i and potentiated the ACh‐stimulated [Ca2+]i increase. The hypo‐osmotic potentiation of ACh‐stimulated CBF increase was not detected under Ca2+‐free conditions. These observations suggest that a hypo‐osmotic stress stimulates ATP release from the trachea. The released ATP may induce further increases in [Ca2+]i and CBF in ACh‐stimulated tracheal ciliary cells, which may be mediated by purinergic receptors, such as P2X4.
Uncoupling of rhythmic hypoglossal from phrenic activity in the rat
Authors: St.‐John Walter M. , Paton Julian F. R. , Leiter J. C.
Published: September 2004

During eupnoea, rhythmic motor activities of the hypoglossal, vagal and phrenic nerves are linked temporally. The inspiratory discharges of the hypoglossal and vagus motor neurones commence before the onset of the phrenic burst. The vagus nerve also discharges in expiration. Upon exposure to hypocapnia or hypothermia, the hypoglossal discharge became uncoupled from that of the phrenic nerve. This uncoupling was evidenced by variable times of onset of hypoglossal discharge before or after the onset of phrenic discharge, extra bursts of hypoglossal activity in neural expiration, or complete absence of any hypoglossal discharge during a respiratory cycle. No such changes were found for vagal discharge, which remained linked to the phrenic bursts. Intracellular recordings in the hypoglossal nucleus revealed that all changes in hypoglossal discharge were due to neuronal depolarization. These results add support to the conclusion that the brainstem control of respiratory‐modulated hypoglossal activity differs from control of phrenic and vagal activity. These findings have implications for any studies in which activity of the hypoglossal nerve is used as the sole index of neural inspiration. Indeed, our results establish that hypoglossal discharge alone is an equivocal index of the pattern of overall ventilatory activity and that this is accentuated by hypercapnia and hypothermia.
Postnatal maturation of mossy fibre excitatory transmission in mouse CA3 pyramidal cells: a potential role for kainate receptors
Authors: Marchal Cécile , Mulle Christophe
Published: September 2004

Kainate receptors (KARs) are abundantly expressed in the central nervous system at a period of intense synaptogenesis and might participate in the maturation of neural networks. We have described the postnatal development of mossy fibre excitatory synaptic transmission in CA3 pyramidal cells and we have explored the potential role of KARs in synaptic maturation. In CA3 pyramidal cells, mossy fibre stimulation evokes EPSCs as early as postnatal day 3 (P3). At this early stage, mossy fibre (MF)‐EPSCs are fully blocked by GYKI 53655, an AMPA receptor (AMPAR) antagonist. A postsynaptic KAR component can only be detected from P6. Thus, AMPAR‐EPSCs precede KAR‐EPSCs during postnatal maturation at this synapse. All MF‐EPSCs display a KAR component after P10. A key issue of the present work is that between P6 and P9, the presence of a postsynaptic KAR component tightly coincides with AMPAR‐mediated EPSCs of large amplitude, and with the onset of low frequency facilitation (from 0.1 Hz to 1 Hz), a presynaptic form of short‐term synaptic plasticity. In addition, mice lacking functional KARs throughout postnatal development display MF‐EPSCs of significantly smaller amplitude at stages of maturation where synaptic KARs are normally present, due to both pre‐ and postsynaptic impairment of synaptic transmission. These data suggest a role for KARs in the maturation of mossy fibre synapses.
Influence of nitric oxide synthase inhibition on pulmonary O2 uptake kinetics during supra‐maximal exercise in humans
Authors: Wilkerson Daryl P. , Campbell Iain T. , Jones Andrew M.
Published: September 2004

We have recently reported that inhibition of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) with NG‐nitro‐l‐arginine methyl ester (l‐NAME) accelerates the ‘phase II’ pulmonary O2 uptake kinetics following the onset of moderate and heavy intensity submaximal exercise in humans. These data suggest that the influence of nitric oxide (NO) on mitochondrial function is an important factor in the inertia to aerobic respiration that is evident in the transition from a lower to a higher metabolic rate. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the influence of l‐NAME on pulmonary kinetics following the onset of supra‐maximal exercise, where it has been suggested that O2 availability represents an additional limitation to kinetics. Seven healthy young men volunteered to participate in this study. Following an incremental cycle ergometer test for the determination of , the subjects returned on two occasions to perform a ‘step’ exercise test from a baseline of unloaded cycling to a work rate calculated to require 105%, preceded either by systemic infusion of l‐NAME (4 mg kg−1 in 50 ml saline) or 50 ml saline as a control (Con). Pulmonary gas exchange was measured on a breath‐by‐breath basis throughout the exercise tests. The duration of ‘phase I’ was greater with l‐NAME (Con: 14.0 ± 2.1 versusl‐NAME: 16.0 ± 1.6 s; P= 0.03), suggestive of a slower cardiovascular adaptation following the onset of exercise. However, the phase II time constant was reduced by 44% with l‐NAME (Con: 36.3 ± 17.3 versusl‐NAME: 20.4 ± 8.3 s; P= 0.01). The accumulation of blood lactate during exercise was also reduced with l‐NAME (Con: 4.0 ± 1.1 versusl‐NAME: 2.7 ± 2.1 mm; P= 0.04). These data indicate that skeletal muscle NO production represents an important limitation to the acceleration of oxidative metabolism following the onset of supra‐maximal exercise in humans.