bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fetal Lung Maturation in Estrogen-Deprived Baboons
Authors: Pepe Gerald J. , Ballard Philip L. , Albrecht Eugene D.
Published: January 2003

We have previously shown that estrogen plays a central integrative role in regulating key aspects of fetal-placental development and that inhibition of estrogen production during the second half of baboon pregnancy suppressed fetal adrenal function. Because maturation of the fetal lung is dependent on cortisol of fetal adrenal origin, the current study determined whether lung development and expression of surfactant proteins (SPs) A and B were altered at term in estrogen-deprived baboons. Fetal lungs were obtained on d 100, 165, and 175 of gestation (term = d 184) from untreated baboons and on d 165 from animals treated daily during the second half of pregnancy either with the aromatase inhibitor CGS 20267 alone or with CGS 20267 and estradiol benzoate. Umbilical venous estradiol levels were suppressed by more than 95% by CGS 20267 and elevated by CGS 20267 and estrogen. Although umbilical serum cortisol levels were also suppressed by 35% by CGS 20267, cortisol levels in the fetal lung of estrogen-suppressed baboons were similar to values in untreated animals. Immunocytochemistry demonstrated that CGS 20267 treatment did not alter fetal lung expression of the 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase enzyme-1 enzyme catalyzing reduction of cortisone to cortisol. However, immunocytochemical expression of the 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase enzyme-2 catalyzing oxidation of cortisol to cortisone appeared lower in lungs of estrogen-deprived fetuses and restored to normal by CGS 20267 and estrogen. SP-A levels in fetal lungs of untreated baboons were increased 16- to 20-fold between d 100 and d 165–175 of gestation in untreated baboons and baboons treated with CGS 20267 or CGS 20267 and estrogen. Similarly, SP-B levels in fetal lungs of untreated baboons were increased 10-fold between d 100 and d 165–175 of gestation in untreated baboons and baboons treated with CGS 20267 or CGS 20267 and estrogen. Moreover, in estrogen-suppressed baboons, as in untreated animals, the fetal lung continued to grow and exhibited normal alveolarization on histology. We conclude that development of the primate fetal lung can occur in utero in baboons in which fetal serum cortisol levels have been suppressed by the relative absence of estrogen perhaps because of the ability of the lung to coordinate local production of cortisol.
Reduced Expression of Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone Receptor Type-1α in Human Preeclamptic and Growth-Restricted Placentas
Authors: Karteris E. , Goumenou A. , Koumantakis E. , Hillhouse E. W. , Grammatopoulos D. K.
Published: January 2003

Placentally derived CRH seems to play a major role in the mechanisms controlling human pregnancy and parturition, via activation of specific receptors widespread in reproductive tissues. In the human placenta, CRH seems to modulate vasodilation, prostaglandin production, and ACTH secretion. It has also been suggested that CRH might act as a placental clock, determining the length of gestation. In addition, maternal plasma CRH concentrations are further elevated in pregnancies associated with abnormal placental function, such as preeclampsia and intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR).

In this study, we sought to investigate the expression of CRH-R1α levels in placentas from women who have undergone normal deliveries (control group) and patients who have been diagnosed as having preeclampsia or IUGR. Results showed that placental CRH-R1α mRNA levels (as shown by quantitative RT-PCR) and protein levels (shown by Western blotting analysis) were significantly (P < 0.05) reduced in all of the complicated pregnancies. In contrast, levels of the angiotensin II receptor were elevated in preeclampsia and reduced in IUGR subjects, as shown by RT-PCR and Western blotting analysis. These findings might suggest that changes in receptor expression may contribute toward dysregulation of the dynamic balance controlling vascular resistance.
11β-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenase Activity in Hypothalamic Obesity
Authors: Tiosano Dov , Eisentein Israel , Militianu Daniela , Chrousos George P. , Hochberg Ze’ev
Published: January 2003

After extensive suprasellar operations for hypothalamic tumor removal, some patients develop Cushing-like morbid obesity while they receive replacement doses of glucocorticoids. In this study, we examined the hypothesis that target tissue conversion of inactive 11-ketosteroids to active 11β-OH glucocorticoids might explain the obesity of some patients with hypothalamic lesions. Toward this aim, we studied 10 patients with hypothalamic obesity and secondary adrenal insufficiency and 6 control Addisonian patients while they were on glucocorticoid replacement therapy. Pituitary hormone deficiencies were replaced when medically indicated. Twenty-four-hour urine was collected after a single oral dose of 12 mg/m2 hydrocortisone acetate. The ratios of free and conjugated cortisol (F) to cortisone (E) and their metabolites, [tetrahydrocortisol (THF)+5αTHF]/tetrahyrdocortisone (THE), dihydrocortisols/dihydrocortisones, cortols/cortolones, and (F+E)/(THF+THE+5αTHF), were considered to represent 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (HSD) activity. The 11-OH/11-oxo ratios were significantly higher in the urine of patients with hypothalamic obesity. The 11-OH/11-oxo ratios, however, did not correlate with the degree of obesity, yet a significant correlation was found between conjugated F/E and the ratio of visceral fat to sc fat measured by computerized tomography at the umbilical level. The consequence of increased 11β-HSD1 activity and the shift of the interconversion toward cortisol may contribute to the effects of the latter in adipose tissue. We propose that deficiency of hypothalamic messengers after surgical injury induces a paracrine/autocrine effect of enhanced glucocorticoid activity due to up-regulated 11β-HSD1 activity.
Differential Expression of Two Estrogen Receptor β Isoforms in the Human Fetal Testis during the Second Trimester of Pregnancy
Authors: Gaskell Terri L. , Robinson Lynne L. L. , Groome Nigel P. , Anderson Richard A. , Saunders Philippa T. K.
Published: January 2003

Testicular cancer is more common in individuals with disorders of the male reproductive tract. It has been suggested that inappropriate exposure to estrogens during fetal life may have an impact on maturation of testicular germ cells that are the cells of origin of the majority of testis cancers. The aim of the present study was to establish whether human fetal germ cells (gonocytes) are a potential target of estrogen action. To address this issue, we used RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry to examine the pattern of expression of estrogen receptors (ERα, ERβ, and ERβ2 variant) in human fetal testes at 12–19 wk gestation. ERα, mRNA, and protein were not detected in any of the fetal testes. In contrast, using an antibody directed against the hinge domain of ERβ expression was detected in multiple testicular nuclei. RT-PCR with primers specific for full-length wild-type ERβ (ERβ1) or the ERβ2 variant formed by splicing of an alternative eighth exon, was performed on whole-tissue extracts and materials recovered by laser capture and revealed that mRNAs for both isoforms were expressed. Immunohistochemistry with isotype-specific monoclonal antibodies showed that ERβ1 was low/undetectable in gonocytes, whereas these cells expressed the highest levels of ERβ2, compared with other testicular cell types. Both ERβ1 and ERβ2 were detected in some but not all Sertoli cells, peritubular cells, and other interstitial cells including those tentatively identified as Leydig cells. Our immunohistochemical results demonstrate that during the second trimester, some but not all somatic cells within the human fetal testis express wild-type ERβ (ERβ1) protein and/or the variant isoform of ERβ (ERβ2) that lacks amino acids essential for binding of estradiol. ERβ2 protein was readily detectable in fetal gonocytes, whereas ERβ1 was not. We did not detect expression of ERα. The expression of ERβ2, a variant proposed act as a dominant negative receptor, might prevent estrogen action in gonocytes. We suggest that during this period of fetal life, estrogenic ligands are most likely to act on somatic cells that contain ERβ1 protein.
Age-Related Changes in the 25-Hydroxyvitamin D Versus Parathyroid Hormone Relationship Suggest a Different Reason Why Older Adults Require More Vitamin D
Authors: Vieth Reinhold , Ladak Yasmin , Walfish Paul G.
Published: January 2003

Vitamin D requirements are thought to vary with age, but there is little comparative evidence for this. One goal in establishing a vitamin D requirement is to avoid secondary hyperparathyroidism. We studied 1741 euthyroid, thyroid clinic outpatients without evidence of calcium abnormalities, ranging in age from 19 to 97 yr, whose serum and urine had been analyzed for calcium, vitamin D, and parathyroid status. We found no effect of age on the 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] concentration associated with specific vitamin D intakes, and there was no relationship between 25(OH)D and 1,25hydroxyvitamin D [1,25(OH)2D]. In every age group, serum 1,25(OH)2D declined with increasing creatinine (P < 0.001). What changed with age included creatinine, which correlated with 25(OH)D (r = 0.146, P < 0.001) only in the youngest age group (19–50 yr) but not in the older age groups (P > 0.1). Creatinine did not correlate with PTH in the youngest age group, but the relationship became significant as age increased (e.g. for the elderly, r = 0.365, P < 0.001). Linear regression of log PTH vs. log 25(OH)D agreed with the natural shape of the relationship observed with scatterplot smoothing, and this showed no plateau in PTH as 25(OH)D increased. We compared PTH concentrations among age groups, based on 20 nmol/liter increments in 25(OH)D. Mean PTH in adults older than 70 yr was consistently higher than in adults younger than 50 yr (P < 0.05 by ANOVA and Dunnett’s t test). PTH levels of the elderly who had 25(OH)D concentrations greater than 100 nmol/liter matched PTH of younger adults having 25(OH)D concentrations near 70 nmol/liter. This study shows that all age groups exhibit a high prevalence of 25(OH)D insufficiency and secondary hyperparathyroidism. Older adults are just as efficient in maintaining 25(OH)D, but they need more vitamin D to produce the higher 25(OH)D concentrations required to overcome the hyperparathyroidism associated with their diminishing renal function.
Overexpression of Serotonin4 Receptors in Cisapride-Responsive Adrenocorticotropin-Independent Bilateral Macronodular Adrenal Hyperplasia Causing Cushing’s Syndrome
Authors: Cartier Dorthe , Lihrmann Isabelle , Parmentier Françoise , Bastard Christian , Bertherat Jérôme , Caron Philippe , Kuhn Jean-Marc , Lacroix André , Tabarin Antoine , Young Jacques , Vaudry Hubert , Lefebvre Hervé
Published: January 2003

The serotonin4 (5-HT4) receptor agonists cisapride and/or metoclopramide have been shown to stimulate cortisol secretion in some patients with ACTH-independent bilateral macronodular adrenal hyperplasias (AIMAH) causing Cushing’s syndrome. In the present study, we have investigated quantitatively and qualitatively the expression of the 5-HT4 receptor in both normal adrenal cortex and tissues removed from six patients (P1–P6) with cisapride-responsive AIMAH and Cushing’s syndrome. Real-time quantitative PCR assay revealed that the 5-HT4 receptor was overexpressed in four of the six hyperplasias studied when compared with normal adrenal cortex. In these tissues, 5-HT4 receptor mRNA expression was 3 to 16 times higher than in normal glands, likely explaining the abnormal in vivo cortisol response to cisapride. Characterization of 5-HT4 receptor splice variants by RT-PCR in both hyperplastic and normal adrenals showed that the variants present in the two hyperplasias that did not overexpress the 5-HT4 receptor, i.e. P2 and P5, could also be detected in the normal adrenal tissue. In addition, sequencing of the full-length cDNAs encoding 5-HT4 receptors in hyperplasias P2 and P5 did not reveal any mutation. Taken together, our results show an overexpression of the 5-HT4 receptor in cisapride-responsive AIMAH. However, in two cases, the level of expression of the receptor in the hyperplastic adrenal cortex was similar to that of normal adrenal gland. The enhanced sensitivity of these two tissues to 5-HT4 receptor agonists was not due to ectopic expression of 5-HT4 receptor isoforms or to the occurrence of somatic gain-of-function mutation of the receptor.
Amplification and Overexpression of Mutant RET in Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Type 2-Associated Medullary Thyroid Carcinoma
Authors: Huang Steve C. , Torres-Cruz Joshua , Pack Svetlana D. , Koch Christian A. , Vortmeyer Alexander O. , Mannan Poonam , Lubensky Irina A. , Gagel Robert F. , Zhuang Zhengping
Published: January 2003

We have previously identified two second hit mechanisms involved in the development of multiple endocrine neoplasia type 2 (MEN 2)-associated tumors: trisomy 10 with duplication of the mutant RET allele and loss of the wild-type RET allele. However, some of the MEN 2-associated tumors investigated did not demonstrate either mechanism. Here, we studied the TT cell line derived from MEN 2-associated medullary thyroid carcinoma with a RET germline mutation in codon 634, for alternative mechanisms of tumorigenesis. Although we observed a 2:1 ratio between mutant and wild-type RET at the genomic DNA level in this cell line, fluorescence in situ hybridization analysis revealed neither trisomy 10 nor loss of the normal chromosome 10. Instead, a tandem duplication event was responsible for amplification of mutant RET. In further studies we could for the first time demonstrate that the genomic chromosome 10 abnormalities in this cell line cause an increased production of mutant RET mRNA. These findings provide evidence for a third second hit mechanism resulting in overrepresentation and overexpression of mutant RET in MEN 2-associated tumors.
Directional stability and control of four-wheel independent drive electric vehicles
Authors: Esmailzadeh E , Goodarzi A , Vossoughi G R
Published: January 2003

The innovative powertrain configuration of modern electric vehicles with four-wheel independent drive (4WID) provides the possibility of simple and exact yaw moment control by controlling the electric motor of every wheel independently. In this study, a genuine control strategy for optimum direct yaw moment control is proposed. Although this can be considered as a global control system for traction control of 4WID electric vehicles, the analysis is quite general and can be applied to other types of vehicle. The directional vehicle model is derived and, in accordance with the optimal control theory, an optimum yaw moment controller is designed. Two versions of the control law are developed and the dynamic performance of each one is determined and compared. Numerical simulation of the vehicle directional model, with and without the use of the optimal yaw moment controller, is carried out. Results indicate that considerable improvement in the directional stability of the vehicle can be achieved when the optimal yaw moment controller is engaged.
Response and analysis of multi-degree-of-freedom cylindrical roll grinding system
Authors: Yuan L , Jårvenpåå V-M , Keskinen E , Cotsaftis M
Published: January 2003

The dynamic response of a roll grinding system with non-constant delay is investigated on the basis of a non-linear multidegree-of-freedom (MDOF) model. A delay effect originates from shape error regeneration on the surface of the roll, and the delay varies with the rotational speed of the roll. A five-degree-of-freedom (5DOF) system is considered. Two equations describe the vibration response of the roll in rotating coordinates, and the other three express the rotational rigid-body vibration system of the roll, the grindstone and its motor. Rotational speed controllers of drives are introduced. In order to obtain the non-constant time delay and the delayed total penetration of the grindstone, a two-step cubic interpolation method is applied. Numerical results are presented, discussed and compared with different cases. Time domain responses are used to illustrate the stability of the system with grinding parameters.
Feasibility of using an active actuator for two-dimensional vibration abatement in a turning process
Authors: Yan W Y , Al-Jumaily A M
Published: January 2003

This paper presents a simulation model that considers the radial and tangential vibrations and their abatement using active actuators in a turning process. The model is simulated using Simulink in a MATLAB environment to assess the possibility of using an active actuator to reduce vibrations in two directions. Comparison is made between the two orthogonal actuators scenario and the one inclined actuator scenario. The results indicate that vibration reduction using an active inclined actuator is comparable with that using two orthogonal actuators.
A qualitative analysis of groundhook tuned vibration absorbers for controlling structural vibrations
Authors: Koo J-H , Ahmadian M
Published: January 2003

The primary purpose of this study is to investigate the dynamic characteristics of semi-active groundhook tuned vibration absorbers (TVAs), using closed-form equivalent models of such systems. Closed-form, equivalent models of groundhook TVAs are developed and compared analytically with those for passive TVAs. Additionally, closed-form solutions of groundhook equivalent TVA models are obtained and are used for a parametric study to evaluate the dynamic characteristics of such systems as various parameters change. The numerical results are compared with passive TVAs which have been studied extensively in the past. The results indicate tat groundhook TVAs, with off-state damping levels within a critical value, are capable of lowering the magnitude of resonant peaks without increasing vibration. In contrast, increasing damping in passive TVAs results in a reduction in the amplitude of resonant peaks, at the expense of increased vibrations at the tuned frequency. The results further indicate that increasing the mass ratio between the TVA and the structure increases the effectiveness of groundhook TVAs, in a manner much similar to passive TVAs. However, increasing off-state damping decreases the effectiveness of groundhook TVAs.
Dynamic response of tubular joints with an annular void subjected to a harmonic torsional load
Authors: Vaziri A , Nayeb-Hashemi H
Published: January 2003

Dynamic responses of adhesively bonded tubular joints subjected to a harmonic torsional load are evaluated. The adherents are assumed to be elastic, and the adhesive is taken to be a linear viscoelastic material. The influence of the adherents and the adhesive properties on the joint response as well as on the shear stress amplitude distribution along the overlap is investigated. Furthermore, the effects of defects such as an annular void in the bond area on the dynamic response and shear stress amplitude distribution in the bond area are studied. The results indicate that, for the tubular joint geometries and properties investigated, the natural frequencies of the joint are little affected by the adhesive loss factor. The natural frequencies of the joint initially increase rapidly with increasing adhesive shear modulus. However, the natural frequencies asymptotically approach a constant value with further increase in adhesive shear modulus. The results further show that the natural frequencies of the joint may not be affected with the presence of a central void in the bond area.

The distribution of the shear stress amplitude in the joint area was obtained. The maximum shear stress was confined to the edge of the overlap for all applied loading frequencies. For the adhesive and adherent properties and geometries investigated, the maximum shear stress amplitude in the joint area was little affected by the presence of a central annular void covering up to 40 per cent of the oveplap length. The result showed that the shear stress amplitude distribution is more sensitive to the void location than to the void size. This was especially pronounced for voids located close to the edge of the overlap.

A central void larger than 40 per cent of the overlap length may be detrimental or beneficial to the joint strength. This depends on the applied loading frequency. A central void reduces the system resonance frequency. This may take the system further away from the applied loading frequency or may bring it closer. A system excited closer to or further from its resonance frequency will develop a higher or lower shear stress amplitude in the bond area.
In-plane free vibration and stability of rotating annular discs
Authors: Hamidzadeh H R
Published: January 2003

The in-plane free vibration in an elastic, isotropic, rotating annular disc is investigated on the basis of the two-dimensional linear plane stress theory of elasticity. An analytical solution of the governing equations is developed. Accurate natural frequencies and mode shapes for several modes at different radius ratios and boundary conditions are determined. The computed results demonstrate the influence of rotational speed and radius ratio on the natural frequencies and elastic stability of the rotating discs for several modes. Comparisons of the results with previously established results indicate excellent agreement.
A Modified Thermal Deposition Unit for Gel-Permeation Chromatography with Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization and Electrospray Ionization Time-of-Flight Analysis
Authors: Maziarz E. Peter , Liu X. Michael
Published: January 2003

We describe a modified commercially available thermal deposition unit that incorporates a post-column mixing cell for gel-permeation chromatography (GPC) effluent and matrix solution prior to continuous deposition onto a matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI) sample target. This modification overcomes the shortcomings of using a prefabricated matrix foil. This GPC MALDI method with time-of-flight (ToF) mass spectrometry is demonstrated by the analysis of a poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) sample used in the production of implantable device materials.
Mass Spectrometry Study of Acylthioureas and Acylthiocarbamates
Authors: Martínez-Alvarez Roberto , Martín Nazario , Seoane Carlos , Plutin Ana María , Suárez Margarita , Machado Teresita , Kayali Nour
Published: January 2003

A variety of acylthiocarbamates and acylthioureas have been investigated under electron impact ionization (EI), chemical ionization (CI) and electrospray ionization (ESI) conditions. Sequential product-ion fragmentation (MSn) was performed to elucidate the degradation pathways for these compounds. Comparisons are made between positive and negative even-electron ions from ESI and CI and the odd-electron ions obtained under EI conditions. The data collected in this paper provide information on the strong differences found in the fragmentation process of these compounds.
Mass Spectrometric Investigation of Protonated and Cationized Molecules of Oxaalkyl Phosphates
Authors: Lyapchenko Natalya , Frański Rafał , Schroeder Grzegorz
Published: January 2003

Mass spectrometric fragmentation pathways of protonated molecules of oxaalkyl phosphates and their complexes with alkali metal cations are discussed in this paper. Liquid secondary ion mass spectrometry (LSIMS) was used as the ionisation technique and mass spectra from B/E linked scans were registered to elucidate the mass spectrometric decomposition of the studied ions. Mainly loss of the ether molecules H2C=HCOCH3 and HOH2C–H2COCH3 was observed. The elimination of neutrals containing metal, for example, K-CH2CH2OCH3 or KOCH2CH2OCH3 also occurred. In the case of phosphate (III) an unusual loss of two CH3CH2OCH3 molecules and a Li or Na atom was observed. Electrospray ionisation mass spectrometry (ESIMS) was applied in order to check the ability of the studied tripodands to form complexes with alkali metal cations.
Capillary Electrophoresis and Electron Capture Dissociation Fourier Transform Ion Cyclotron Resonance Mass Spectrometry for Peptide Mixture and Protein Digest Analysis
Authors: Tsybin Youri O. , Håkansson Per , Wetterhall Magnus , Markides Karin E. , Bergquist Jonas
Published: January 2003

Recent advances in peptide fragmentation techniques and mass spectrometry have opened up the possibility of combining peptide separation techniques, such as capillary electrophoresis (CE) and capillary liquid chromatography, with Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (FT-ICR MS) and electron capture dissociation (ECD) in order to characterize peptide mixtures and protein digests. The results presented in this study show that CE/ECD-FT-ICR MS can be employed for peptide characterization in mixtures of standard peptides and in peptides resulting from the enzymatic digestion of proteins. Furthermore, the technique has potential for the identification and localization of post-translational modifications in peptides and proteins.
Application of Differential Isotopic Mass Splitting (DiMaS), a New Mass Spectrometry Methodology for the Analysis of Truncated Peptides, to Amyloid Precursor Protein Cleavage by Human Bleomycin Hydrolase and Neprilysin
Authors: Heudi Olivier , Marshall Peter , Molina César Ramírez , Kay Corinne , McKeown Stephen
Published: January 2003

A simple method for the analysis of peptides based on mass spectrometry has been applied to the study of interactions between human bleomycin hydrolase (hBH) or neprilysin (NEP; EC 3.4.24.11) and peptides Ac-HHQKLVFFAG-NH2, Ac-SEVNLDAEFG-NH2 and Ac-GGVVIATVIG-NH2, three substrates cleaved by α, β and γ-secretase, respectively. These proteases are involved in the catabolism of amyloid protein precursor (APP), a protein implicated in Alzheimer's disease. The results indicate that hBH does not cleave the three substrates tested. Conversely, NEP cleaves Ac-HHQKLVFFAG-NH2 at multiple sites and Ac-SEVNLDAEFG-NH2 at only one position, whereas no cleavage was observed with Ac-GGVVIATVIG-NH2. The fragments generated by cleavage with NEP were clearly identified without any further analysis by tandem mass spectrometry. The implication of the role of NEP in the Alzheimer detoxification process is discussed. This technique provides useful information on peptide cleavage points and could be applied easily to a mixture of peptides for the determination of amino acid sequences preferred by any protease.
Electron Ionization Mass Spectra of N(O,S)-Isobutoxycarbonyl Isobutyl Esters of Amino Acids
Authors: Sobolevsky Tim G. , Revelsky Alexander I. , Revelsky Igor A. , Miller Barbara , Oriedo Vincent
Published: January 2003

Mass spectra of N(O,S)-isobutoxycarbonyl isobutyl esters of 17 amino acids (L-alanine, glycine, L-valine, L-norvaline, L-leucine, L-isoleucine, L-norleucine, L-proline, L-asparagine, L-methionine, L-threonine, L-serine, L-phenylalanine, L-lysine, L-tryptophan, L-tyrosine and L-cystine) were obtained in the electron ionization mode. These derivatives were found suitable for the analysis of amino acids in aqueous media allowing proper identification and quantitation from the mass spectral characteristics.
Assessment of competency for execution: professional guidelines and an evaluation checklist
Authors: Zapf Patricia A. , Boccaccini Marcus T. , Brodsky Stanley L.
Published: February 2003

The issue of whether mental health professionals should be involved in conducting evaluations of competency for execution is a topic that has elicited controversy and heated debate. This article picks up at a point beyond the controversy and addresses issues of professionalism and the objective assessment of competency for execution. Specifically, this article identifies professional standards for conducting competence for execution (CFE) evaluations, describes current practices in this area, and provides an interview checklist that can be used as an evaluation guide by involved professionals. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Predicting criminal justice outcomes with the Psychopathy Checklist and Lifestyle Criminality Screening Form: a meta‐analytic comparison
Authors: Walters Glenn D.
Published: February 2003

Studies that have used either the Psychopathy Checklist—Revised (PCL‐R) or the Lifestyle Criminality Screening Form (LCSF) to predict criminal justice outcomes (disciplinary adjustment and recidivism) were subjected to meta‐analysis and compared. Analogous results were obtained with the PCL‐R and LCSF even though the PCL‐R takes 2–3 hours and the LCSF 10 minutes to complete. It is concluded that pending further evaluation in which these assessment measures are directly compared, the cost‐effectiveness of the LCSF makes it an attractive alternative to the PCL‐R in situations where risk of future offender disciplinary maladjustment or recidivism is of principal concern. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effect of arginine, ornithine and citrulline supplementation upon performance and metabolism of trained rats
Authors: Meneguello M. O. , Mendonça J. R. , Lancha A. H. , Costa Rosa L. F. B. P.
Published: February 2003

During intense exercise there is an augmented production of ammonia and IMP in the exercised muscle that could be related to the establishment of peripheral fatigue. In order to prevent this accumulation, the urea cycle in the liver eliminates ammonia in the form of urea and the skeletal muscle buffers the increase of ammonia via transamination reactions. In the present study we evaluated the effect of arginine, citrulline and ornithine supplementation, intermediates of the urea cycle, on the performance of sedentary and swimming‐trained rats submitted to a single bout of exhaustive exercise. We also measured the glycogen content of the soleus and gastrocnemius muscles and of the liver, as well as the plasma concentrations of ammonia, urea, glutamine, glucose and lactate. The results indicate that arginine, citrulline and ornithine supplementation increased the flux of substrate through the reaction catalysed by glutamine synthetase, leading to increased glutamine production after an exhaustive bout of exercise, and of the mechanism involved in ammonia buffering. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Self‐help and minimal‐contact therapies for anxiety disorders: Is human contact necessary for therapeutic efficacy?
Authors: Newman Michelle G. , Erickson Thane , Przeworski Amy , Dzus Ellen
Published: February 2003

Self‐help materials, brief therapies, and treatments involving minimal therapist contact have all been proposed as effective and low‐cost interventions for anxiety disorders. However, research also suggests that the therapeutic alliance is a central predictor of therapy outcome. Interestingly, amounts of therapist contact within and across “self‐help” interventions vary greatly. It is therefore unclear how much therapist contact is necessary for a positive anxiety disorder treatment outcome. The present article reviews the literature on anxiety disorder treatments using self‐help, self‐administered, and decreased therapist‐contact interventions. Treatment studies are grouped together by anxiety diagnosis as well as amount of therapist contact. It is concluded that self‐administered treatments are most effective for motivated clients seeking treatment for simple phobias. Predominantly self‐help therapies are efficacious for panic disorder and mixed anxiety samples. On the other hand, minimal‐contact therapies have demonstrated efficacy for the greatest variety of anxiety diagnoses. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol 59: 251–274, 2003.
Self‐administered treatment in stepped‐care models of depression treatment
Authors: Scogin Forrest R. , Hanson Ashley , Welsh Douglas
Published: February 2003

Stepped behavioral health care models have begun to receive increased attention. Self‐administered treatments deserve consideration as an element in these models for some disorders and for some consumers. Features suggesting inclusion include low cost, wide availability, and evidence‐based status. We present a stepped‐care model for depression inclusive of a self‐administered treatment component. We also discuss cautions such as depression severity and consumer preference. Evaluation of the efficacy and cost effectiveness of this approach to depression treatment is necessary. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol 59: 341–349, 2003.
Towards minimum k‐geodetically connected graphs
Authors: Plesník Ján
Published: February 2003

A connected graph G is k‐geodetically connected (k‐GC) if the removal of at least k vertices is required to increase the distance between at least one pair of vertices or reduce G to a single vertex. Such graphs can serve as models of distance invulnerable networks (immune to k − 1 or fewer vertex failures). We focus on the k‐GC graphs which have the least possible number of edges for a given number of vertices. We survey known results and add several new ones. A lower bound on the size of a k‐GC graph is presented which generalizes a known bound of Farley and Proskurowski and a conjecture on the minimum size is raised. Operations on and constructions of k‐GC graphs related to the conjecture are given. We give two techniques that for certain orders produce the least size k‐GC graphs known so far. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Comparative molecular and histological grading of epithelial dysplasia of the oral cavity and the oropharynx
Authors: Tabor Maarten P , Braakhuis Boudewijn JM , van der Wal Jacqueline E , van Diest Paul J , Leemans C René , Brakenhoff Ruud H , Kummer J Alain
Published: February 2003

Histological grading of epithelial dysplasia in the oral cavity and oropharynx is used to predict the risk for cancer and to determine the treatment strategy. This grading, however, is subjective and not well reproducible. Recent publications have shown that molecular markers are promising in cancer risk assessment. The aim of the present study was to compare classical histological and molecular grading and to relate these to the proliferation rate by quantitative assessment of Ki‐67 staining. Forty‐three samples were analysed from the margins of patients who had undergone resection of their squamous cell carcinoma in the oral cavity/oropharynx. Three experienced pathologists performed the histological grading. With the consensus score, 12 samples were classified as normal and 31 as dysplastic (21 mild, six moderate, and four severe). Loss of heterozygosity (LOH) was assessed in the same samples with 15 microsatellite markers at chromosomes 3p, 9p, 17p, 8p, 13q, and 18q, and was present in 28 of the 43 samples. Twenty‐four of the 28 cases (86%) with LOH were classified as dysplastic and four as normal. All ten samples with moderate and severe dysplasia and 14 of 21 samples with mild dysplasia contained LOH. In four of 12 biopsies classified as normal, LOH was found. A very striking and significant difference of the Ki‐67 index was observed between LOH‐positive and LOH‐negative cases, 36.6 ± 11.1% versus 19.4 ± 2.8% positive cells, respectively. In mild dysplasia, 13 of 14 lesions containing LOH had a higher Ki‐67 index than all seven lesions without LOH. Thus, in the oral cavity/oropharynx, LOH is more frequently found in the histologically higher‐grade lesions (moderate dysplasia or worse) and in the lower grade lesions when a high proliferation rate is present. Assessment of proliferation with Ki‐67 is a better surrogate for LOH than histological grading. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The relationship of gender, gender identity, and coping strategies in late adolescents
Authors: Renk Kimberly , Creasey Gary
Published: February 2003

The relationships among gender, gender identity, and coping in late adolescents were examined. One hundred sixty‐nine late adolescents completed measures assessing their masculinity and femininity, as well as their use of coping strategies. Females endorsed greater use of emotion‐focused coping strategies than males. Late adolescents who were high in masculinity endorsed higher levels of problem‐focused coping strategies than those who were low in masculinity. In contrast, late adolescents who were high in femininity endorsed higher levels of emotion‐focused coping strategies than those who were low in femininity. Neither the gender nor the masculinity and femininity of late adolescents were predictive of the use of avoidant coping strategies. Overall, gender identity made an important and independent contribution to the endorsement of coping strategy use. These results emphasize the importance of assessing both gender and gender identity with regard to coping in late adolescents.
A Serial Study of Heart Function During Pregnancy, Lactation and the Dry Period in Dairy Goats Using Echocardiography
Authors: Olsson K. , Hansson K. , Hydbring E. , von Walter L. Winblad , Häggström J.
Published: February 2003

Echocardiography and Doppler measurements were performed to investigate changes in heart dimensions and function during pregnancy, lactation and the non‐pregnant, non‐lactating (dry) period in dairy goats. Eight Swedish domestic goats (Capra hircus) were studied with two‐dimensional (2DE), M‐mode and continuous wave Doppler measurements. Cardiac dimensions did not differ between periods. The mean cardiac outputs were 35 and 28% greater during pregnancy and lactation, respectively, vs. the dry period. Arterial blood pressure (measured by telemetry) did not differ between reproductive periods before echocardiographic measurements, but became elevated during the measurements, with the smallest rise during lactation. Heart rate was elevated during pregnancy and increased further during echocardiographic measurements, but was not elevated during the other periods. The cranial location of the heart influenced the selection of examination window and caused some difficulties in positioning the ultrasound transducer. This may have led to underestimation of the velocity trace integral and therefore to underestimation of cardiac output. However, our values were within the range of these obtained with dye‐ and thermodilution methods. The goats tolerated the investigations well during lactation and the dry period, but showed increased blood pressure and heart rate during pregnancy. Therefore, the non‐invasive and safe echocardiographic‐Doppler method appears to be a good alternative for studies of heart dimensions and function during lactation and the dry period in the dairy goat.
Corticotrophin Releasing Hormone: Its Potential for a Role in Human Myometrium
Authors: Linton E. A. , Woodman J. R. , Asboth G. , Glynn B. P. , Plested C. P. , Bernal A. López
Published: February 2003

Aside from its role as a hypothalamic stress hormone, corticotrophin releasing hormone (CRH) is also a placental hormone, at least in primates. Although the function of placentally derived CRH remains to be fully elucidated, elevated CRH levels have been associated with premature labour, suggesting that the hormone may be involved in regulating the duration of pregnancy. Indeed, pregnant human myometrium expresses functional CRH receptors (CRH R1 and CRH R2 subtypes) thought to signal predominantly via the second messenger cAMP. Thus, like other cAMP‐producing hormones in the myometrium such as β2 agonists, CRH may play a part in maintaining uterine quiescence. However, several of the CRH receptor isoforms identified to date have a reduced ability to activate adenylate cyclase, raising the question as to whether they are linked to other signal transduction pathways. Here, we discuss critically the evidence for the peptide's role in regulating contractility, both directly at the myometrium and indirectly via the fetal membranes and decidua. The possibility of a role in myometrial growth modulation is also described.
Role of Rho‐Associated Protein Kinase in Tone and Calcium Sensitivity of Cannulated Rat Mesenteric Small Arteries
Authors: VanBavel Ed , van der Meulen Esther T. , Spaan Jos A. E.
Published: February 2003

The regulation of vascular tone includes modulation of contractile element calcium sensitivity. We tested the involvement of the Rho‐associated protein kinase p160ROCK in tone and calcium sensitivity of cannulated rat mesenteric small arteries. These vessels developed basal tone and showed myogenic responses upon pressure steps, resulting from an increase in calcium in combination with a high contractile element calcium sensitivity. Y‐27632, believed to be a specific p160ROCK inhibitor, caused concentration‐dependent inhibition of basal tone, with near full inhibition at 3 μM. At this concentration, myogenic responses were absent and stepwise pressure elevation resulted in severe vascular distension. Y‐27632 did not affect pressure‐induced changes in intracellular calcium but rather reduced pressure‐induced as well as phenylephrine‐induced calcium sensitisation. Thus in the presence of the blocker, for a given calcium concentration, tone was greatly reduced, and the divergence in sensitivity between pressure and phenylephrine as stimuli on the one hand and potassium on the other disappeared. K+ (125 mM) and ionomycin still caused contraction in the presence of the p160ROCK blocker. These data show that in pressurised small arteries the Rho‐p160ROCK pathway is active in the absence of vasoconstrictors, keeping the vessels in a state of high calcium sensitivity and basal tone.
Euclid and the Sceptic: A Paper on Vision, Doubt, Geometry, Light and Drunkenness
Authors: Berryman Sylvia
Published: February 2003

Philosophy in the period immediately after Aristotle is sometimes thought to be marked by the decline of natural philosophy and philosophical disinterest in contemporary achievements in the sciences. But in one area at least, the early third century B.C.E. was a time of productive interaction between such disparate fields as epistemology, physics and geometry. Debates between the sceptics and the dogmatic philosophical schools focus on epistemological problems about the possibility of self-evident appearances, but there is evidence from Euclid's day of a quite different response. The sceptical challenge provoked the development of theories explaining error formation, showing how illusions can be studied systematically and are subject to prediction. Such theories do not legitimate claims about the nature of the underlying entities perceived, but provide justification for forming expectations about future perceptions. While it overtly focuses on purely geometrical considerations, the Euclidean model of optics nonetheless provides support for certain views about the nature of vision and the physics of light. Moreover, by offering a model in which the image received is not thought to be a perspicuous mirroring of the object seen, Euclid may have helped promote a view of perception as something reconstructed from information received, not as a mere form transferred into the eye. The ancient sceptic may indeed have fulfilled his promise to promote inquiry by focusing attention on problems that escape the attention of a hasty theorist.
Analysis of rapid manufacturing—using layer manufacturing processes for production
Authors: Hopkinson N , Dicknes P
Published: February 2003

Rapid prototyping (RP) technologies that have emerged over the last 15 years are all based on the principle of creating three-dimensional geometries directly from computer aided design (CAD) by stacking two-dimensional profiles on top of each other. To date most RP parts are used for prototyping or tooling purposes; however, in future the majority may be produced as end-use products. The term ‘rapid manufacturing’ in this context uses RP technologies as processes for the production of end-use products.

This paper reports findings from a cost analysis that was performed to compare a traditional manufacturing route (injection moulding) with layer manufacturing processes (stereolithography, fused deposition modelling and laser sintering) in terms of the unit cost for parts made in various quantities. The results show that, for some geometries, it is more economical to use layer manufacturing methods than it is to use traditional approaches for production in the thousands.
The emerging debate over the shape of informed consent: can the doctrine bear the weight?
Authors: Petrila John
Published: February 2003

Informed consent has traditionally focused on treatment‐related issues. However, since the mid‐1990s, courts have debated whether informed consent should be stretched to accommodate other concerns. For example, some courts have considered whether economic limitations on treatment availability must be made known to a patient as part of the informed consent process. Other courts have considered whether characteristics of the treatment provider (e.g., experience with a particular procedure) should be disclosed as part of informed consent. Consideration of these issues turns in large part on whether the information in question would be considered “material” to a decision to accept or reject treatment. This article discusses these developments, and suggests that expanding informed consent beyond treatment‐related issues in some circumstances may erode trust in the clinical relationship, thus undermining one of the central values of the informed consent doctrine. It concludes with some suggestions on how research could inform this debate. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Modeling the chromatographic enantioseparation of aryl‐ and hetarylcarbinols on ULMO, a brush‐type chiral stationary phase, by 3D‐QSAR techniques
Authors: Fabian Walter M.F. , Stampfer Wolfgang , Mazur Monika , Uray Georg
Published: February 2003

The enantiomers of a series of chiral aryl‐ and hetaryl‐carbinols were separated on a chiral stationary phase (ULMO) based on (S,S)‐3,5‐dinitrobenzoylated 1,2‐diphenylethane‐1,2‐diamine. In all cases, the homochiral analogs of (S)‐1‐phenylethanol (mostly also S‐enantiomers) were retained more. Log α values were modeled with the aid of the 3D‐QSAR techniques CoMFA (comparative molecular field analysis) and CoMSIA (comparative molecular similarity indices analysis) as well as a descriptor based on normal mode eigenvalues (EVA). Partial least‐squares analysis with two (CoMSIA) or three (CoMFA, EVA) latent variables on a set of 22 training analytes gives cross‐validated correlation coefficients q2 = 0.85–0.91 and conventional correlation coefficients r2 = 0.94–0.99. The quantitative structure–enantioselective retention relationships derived thereby were used to predict the separation factors of the test set, containing also hetaryl‐carbinols, e.g., furan and thiophene analogs, with good accuracy. Chirality 15:271–275, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Self‐administered treatment for smoking cessation
Authors: Curry Susan J. , Ludman Evette J. , McClure Jennifer
Published: February 2003

Self‐administered treatment for smoking cessation has the potential to reach a broad spectrum of the population of smokers. This article focuses on self‐administration of behavioral and pharmacological treatments for smoking cessation. Evidence for the effectiveness of written manuals to self‐administer behavioral treatment is mixed. There is no evidence that self‐help manuals alone are effective. However, they do increase quit rates when combined with personalized adjuncts such as written feedback and outreach telephone counseling. Efficacy trials of first‐line pharmacotherapies (nicotine gum, nicotine patch, and bupropion) result in doubling of cessation rates compared to placebo. It is difficult to evaluate the effectiveness of pharmacotherapies when self‐administered under real‐world conditions. The general consensus is that they improve quit rates, although poor compliance and early discontinuation reduce their effectiveness. Areas for further research include randomized trials of the use of new technologies (e.g., hand‐held computers and the Internet) to disseminate self‐administered treatments as well as improved surveillance of the use of self‐administered treatment in population‐based health surveys. © 2003 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol 59: 305–319, 2003.