bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vasculogenic mimicry and pseudo‐comedo formation in breast cancer
Authors: Shirakawa Kazuo , Wakasugi Hiro , Heike Yuji , Watanabe Ichiro , Yamada Shigeki , Saito Ken , Konishi Fumio
Published: August 2002

Tumors require a blood supply for growth and hematogenous metastases. Until recently, most research in this area has focused on the role of angiogenesis, the recruitment of new vessels into a tumor from preexisting vessels. Previously, in a study of breast cancer (IBC), in which we used established inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) xenografts (WIBC‐9) originating from a patient with IBC (Shirakawa et al., Cancer Res 2001:61:445–451), we reported observing vasculogenic mimicry (VM), a condition in which bloodstreams within cancer tissue are not accompanied by a lining of endothelial cells (ECs) (Shirakawa et al., Cancer Res 2002:62:560–566). In the present study, we examined 331 surgically resected breast cancer specimens for evidence of VM, using immunohistochemistry and laser‐captured microdissection (LCM) followed by nested reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR). Surprisingly, 7.9% (26 specimens) of the 331 specimens exhibited evidence of VM. Of these 26 VM specimens, 84.6% (22 specimens) exhibited pseudo‐comedo formation. RT‐PCR analysis of 8 microdissected typical VM specimens revealed expression of Tie‐2, Flt‐1, thrombin receptor and CD31 in 63, 50, 0 and 0% of specimens, respectively. In contrast, results of RT‐PCR analysis of 8 specimens from non‐VM tumors were negative for expression of these genes. The 26 VM cases tended to have a higher percentage of hematogenous recurrence (p = 0.059) and a lower percentage of 5‐year survival (p = 0.071) than the 305 non‐VM cases. However, there were no significant differences in tumor size, lymph node metastasis, estrogen receptors or progesterone receptors between the 2 groups (p > 0.1). Our results suggest that the existence of VM increases the likelihood of hematogenous metastases and is in inverse proportion to prognosis. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Differential display analysis of breast carcinoma cells enriched by immunomagnetic target cell selection: Gene expression profiles in bone marrow target cells
Authors: Ree Anne Hansen , Engebraaten Olav , Hovig Eivind , Fodstad Øystein
Published: August 2002

The red bone marrow (BM) is an important indicator organ of hematogenous micrometastatic spread of carcinomas. Characterization of biological properties specific for BM micrometastatic cells, however, is technically challenging due to the limited number of target cells usually available for the purpose. This report provides referrals to qualitative gene expression profiling of BM micrometastatic cells enriched by immunomagnetic selection. First, an experimental strategy was used to study regulatory mechanisms involved when BM micrometastatic cells colonize distant organs. The MA‐11 cells, originating from BM micrometastases in a breast cancer patient clinically devoid of overt metastatic disease, were injected into immunodeficient rats. Metastatic MA‐11 cells were subsequently immunoselected from the resulting in vivo lesions. The selected cell populations were compared to the injected cells by differential display analysis, and several genes possibly involved in tumor cell invasion and proliferation were confirmed as differentially expressed among the various MA‐11 cell populations. A direct approach to qualitative gene expression profiling of BM micrometastatic cells was also explored. Carcinoma cells were immunoselected from BM and axillary lymph nodes obtained from breast cancer patients, and the isolated cell populations were compared by differential display analysis. Two candidate genes, identified as factors involved in cellular growth control, appeared as differentially expressed by the target cells from BM. Our study provides detailed information on how to combine an immunomagnetic selection procedure and differential display analysis to reveal gene expression profiles that may characterize BM micrometastatic cells. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Risk factors for Barrett's esophagus: A case‐control study
Authors: Conio Massimo , Filiberti Rosangela , Blanchi Sabrina , Ferraris Roberto , Marchi Santino , Ravelli Paolo , Lapertosa Gabriella , Iaquinto Gaetano , Sablich Renato , Gusmaroli Riccardo , Aste Hugo , Giacosa Attilio ,   GOSPE
Published: August 2002

Barrett's esophagus (BE) is an acquired disorder due to chronic gastroesophageal reflux. Environmental factors seem to play an important role in the pathogenesis of BE, especially in Western society. A multicenter case‐control study was carried out between February 1995 and April 1999 in 8 Italian Departments of Gastroenterology gathered in a study group (GOSPE), in order to analyze the influence of some individual characteristics and life‐style habits on the occurrence of BE. Three groups of patients were studied: 149 patients with BE, 143 patients with esophagitis (E) and 308 hospital controls (C) with acute, non‐neoplastic, non‐gastroenterological conditions. The diagnosis of BE was based on endoscopy and histology. E was defined by the Savary classification (grade I–III). Data collection was performed by using a questionnaire that focused on smoking, coffee and alcohol consumption, medical history, drugs history, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) symptoms (heartburn, regurgitation) and socio‐economic status. Multivariate analysis showed that the frequency of weekly GERD symptoms was significantly associated with both BE and E (p<0.0001), such as the presence of hiatal hernia (p≤0.001). Ulcer was significantly associated with BE (p=0.001). Among patients with E, the risk was directly related to spirits consumption (p=0.03). Patients with GERD symptoms that lasted more than 13 years were more likely to have BE than E (p=0.01). In conclusion, results from our study point out that long‐standing GERD symptoms, hiatal hernia and possibly alcohol consumption are risk factors in the development of the BE and E. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Inhibition of spontaneous metastases formation by amifostine
Authors: Grdina David J. , Kataoka Yasushi , Murley Jeffrey S. , Hunter Nancy , Weichselbaum Ralph R. , Milas Luka
Published: August 2002

Amifostine was investigated for its ability to inhibit spontaneous metastases formation using the well‐characterized murine sarcoma, Sa‐NH. Amifostine was administered intraperitoneally at a dose of 50 mg/kg every other day for 6 days to C3Hf/Kam mice until tumors reached an average size of 8–8.5 mm in diameter. Amifostine was again administered immediately after surgical removal of the tumor‐bearing limbs by amputation, and then once more 2 days later. Twenty‐one days later, animals were evaluated for the presence of spontaneously developed pulmonary metastases. Nontumor‐bearing control animals were sham treated using the same dosing and surgery schedules. Treatment with amifostine appeared to slightly delay tumor growth, that is, 13 vs. 12 days for tumors to reach an average diameter of 8 mm. Amifostine reduced both the incidence of pulmonary metastases formed in experimental animals from 77% to 57% (p < 0.05), and their average number per animal from 12.8 ± 5.4 (SEM) to 2.9 ± 1.1 (SEM). The effect of amifostine exposure on serum levels of the angiogenesis inhibitor angiostatin was also determined using Western blot analysis. Consistent with the antimetastatic effect, exposure of animals to 50 mg/kg of amifostine resulted in a 4‐fold enhanced serum level of angiostatin above control levels. This phenomenon occurred in tumor‐bearing and nontumor‐bearing animals. The effects of amifostine on matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) enzymatic activity was also determined using gelatin zymography. Conditioned growth medium collected from Sa‐NH cells grown to confluency was exposed to various concentrations of SH, i.e., 2‐[(aminopropyl)amino]ethane‐thiol (WR‐1065), the active thiol form of amifostine, for either 30 min or 18 hr. WR‐1065, as a function of increasing dose and time, inhibited the enzymatic activities of MMP‐2 and MMP‐9. At a concentration and time of exposure likely to be achieved in vivo, that is, 40 μM and 30 min, MMP‐2 and MMP‐9 activities were reduced to between 30% and 40% of control values. Consistent with these affects, WR‐1065 was also found to be effective in inhibiting the ability of Sa‐NH cells to migrate through Matrigel membranes. After an 18‐hr exposure under in vitro conditions, WR‐1065 at concentrations of 4, 40 and 400 μM, and 4 mM, inhibited Sa‐NH migration to 11%, 44%, 81% and 97% of control values, respectively. The abilities of amifostine and its active thiol WR‐1065 to stimulate angiostatin production in mice, and to inhibit the MMP enzymatic activities and invasion ability of Sa‐NH cells under in vitro conditions, are consistent with the observed antimetastatic effects exhibited against Sa‐NH tumors growing in vivo. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Growth inhibition of BEL‐7404 human hepatoma cells by expression of mutant telomerase reverse transcriptase
Authors: Zhang Rugang , Wang Xingwang , Guo Lixia , Xie Hong
Published: August 2002

Human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignancies in Asia and Africa. Human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) is expressed in HCC but absent in normal human liver cells, which is consistent with the expression pattern of telomerase. In the present study, expression of a dominant‐negative form of hTERT (DN‐hTERT) resulted in inhibition of telomerase activity and decreased mean telomeric length of BEL‐7404 human hepatoma cells, whereas expression of wild‐type hTERT (WT‐hTERT) and control vector had no such effects. Cell growth was inhibited by this mutant (DN‐hTERT), which was consistent with the changes in telomerase level. Flattened large cells were found in late generations with the DN‐hTERT treatment. When mean telomeric length of DN‐hTERT–transfected cells reached a critical length (about 1.7 kb), apoptosis was induced. Tumorigenicity of DN‐hTERT–expressing cells was eliminated in vivo. These data indicated that hTERT was essential for the growth of hepatoma cells. hTERT can also be used as an important target for anti‐HCC drug screening. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Reduced sialidase expression in highly metastatic variants of mouse colon adenocarcinoma 26 and retardation of their metastatic ability by sialidase overexpression
Authors: Sawada Masashi , Moriya Setsuko , Saito Seiichi , Shineha Ryuzaburo , Satomi Susumu , Yamori Takao , Tsuruo Takashi , Kannagi Reiji , Miyagi Taeko
Published: August 2002

Sialidase expression levels are inversely correlated with the metastatic potential of mouse colon adenocarcinoma 26 sublines, as assessed by activity assays and RT‐PCR, irrespective of total and cell surface sialic acid contents. Compared with low metastatic NL4 and NL44 cell lines, the highly metastatic NL17 and NL22 cells exhibit low expression of sialidases, accompanied with higher levels of sialylLex and GM3. To investigate whether these properties of NL17 cells can be altered by sialidase overexpression, we transfected a cytosolic sialidase gene into NL17 cells. The result was markedly inhibited lung metastasis, invasion and cell motility with a concomitant decrease in sialylLex and GM3 levels, in line with the case of spontaneously low metastatic sublines having relatively high endogenous sialidase levels, implying that sialidase level is a determining factor affecting metastatic ability. Treatment of the cells with antibodies against sialylLex and GM3 affected cell adhesion and/or cell motility, providing evidence that desialylation of these molecules, as targets of sialidase, is involved in the suppression of metastasis. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Beyond bipolar: A three‐dimensional assessment of monetary frameworks
Authors: Kuttner Kenneth N. , Posen Adam S.
Published: August 2002

A great deal of attention has been focused recently on the impact of exchange rate regimes, just as previous empirical research examined central bank autonomy and announced targets for domestic monetary policy. To date, however, these three elements of monetary frameworks have been assessed in isolation from one another, and all have been viewed in terms of a unidimensional spectrum of fixity versus flexibility. Using a newly constructed dataset, this paper jointly analyses and compares all three elements' effects on inflation and exchange rate behaviour. The results show that each of the three elements has independent and distinct effects on nominal outcomes. Key findings include: (1) although hard pegs do tend to reduce inflation and attenuate exchange rate fluctuations within some range, they are clearly characterized by large devaluations; (2) central bank autonomy is associated with a more stable exchange rate and lower inflation; and (3) explicit inflation targeting reduces both inflation and its persistence, consistent with the view that inflation targeting increases flexibility through transparency. These results raise the possibility that a combination of central bank autonomy, inflation targeting, and a free float might offer the same benefits as any intermediate exchange rate regime on its own, without the proclivity to occasional large depreciations. Copyright © 2001 Institute for International Economics and Federal Reserve Bank of New York.
The empirics of monetary policy rules in open economies
Authors: Clarida Richard H.
Published: August 2002

This paper uses the empirical framework for formulating and estimating forward looking monetary policy rules developed in Clarida, Gali and Gertler (1998, 1999, 2000, 2001) and Clarida (2000) to assess what we know, don't know, and can't tell about monetary policy making in an open economy with an (implicit) inflation target. Among the issues discussed are: the relationship between structural VAR models of monetary policy and exchange rates and estimates of forward‐looking Taylor rules; the relationship between inflation targeting and leaning against the (exchange rate) wind; why central bankers are averse to even wide‐band target zones; quantifying stresses and costs of a one‐size‐fits‐all monetary policy for the members of a monetary union or currency bloc. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A unifying framework for analysing offsetting capital flows and sterilization: Germany and the ERM
Authors: Brissimis Sophocles N. , Gibson Heather D. , Tsakalotos Euclid
Published: August 2002

This paper provides a unifying framework in which identified offset and sterilization equations can be derived and estimated. The theoretical model suggests that, in the case where the central bank cares about both external and internal goals and capital is less than perfectly mobile, there will be some offsetting capital flows and the central bank will sterilize. Several results from the literature are encompassed as special cases. The equations are estimated for the German experience of the 1980s and the results point to active sterilization by the Bundesbank during this period. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Geography conversion tables: a framework for conversion of data between geographical units
Authors: Simpson Ludi
Published: August 2002

A conceptual framework for conversion of data between geographical units is developed. It is used to examine the construction of geographical conversion tables, which have taken many forms and have recently been stimulated in the UK by government emphasis on neighbourhood profiling. Where boundaries of different geographical systems overlap, then conversion of data from one system to another involves approximation. In this case non‐hierarchical geography conversion tables are used and data conversion is equivalent to statistical synthetic estimation. Errors arise both in the construction of geographical conversion tables and in the approximation when converting data between overlapping geographies. A typology of errors when estimating data by geographical conversion is complemented by empirical measurement for a variety of UK examples. Data conversion using weighted sums of source unit data is shown to be more accurate than the allocation of data for whole source units to single target units. Measures of quality for estimates from data conversion are necessary and are proposed. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Overview of Knowledge Management
Authors: Serban Andreea M. , Luan Jing
Published: August 2002

This background chapter defines knowledge management, its components, processes, and outcomes. It addresses the importance of knowledge management for higher education, in general, and for institutional research, in particular.
Application des indicateurs “approvisionnement relatif en eau” et “productivité de l'eau” à l'analyse des performances des petits périmètres irrigués au Burkina Faso
Authors: Dembélé Y. , Ouattara S. , Keïta A.
Published: August 2002

The performance of three small irrigation systems located in the central and the centre eastern regions of Burkina Faso has been analysed at the field level, using two performance indicators:

Relative water supply (RWS) to assess the adequacy of “irrigation supply and effective rainfall” and the crop water requirement;

Water productivity (Pe) to assess water use efficiency.

The results show that the average value of RWS of wet‐season rice fields is very high (1.3) at Gorgo, medium (1.04) at Mogtedo and very low (0.75) at Itenga. The average value of water productivity is high (0.88 kg m−3) at Itenga, medium (0.65 kg m−3) at Mogtedo and low (0.34 kg m−3) at Gorgo.

The relationship of RWS to water productivity shows that it would be possible to save irrigation water without decreasing rice yields significantly. However, no significant correlation has been found between the RWS values and the yield values. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Bankruptcy prediction of financially stressed firms: an examination of the predictive accuracy of artificial neural networks
Authors: Anandarajan Murugan , Lee Picheng , Anandarajan Asokan
Published: August 2002

This is an extension of prior studies that have used artificial neural networks to predict bankruptcy. The incremental contribution of this study is threefold. First, we use only financially stressed firms in our control sample. This enables the models to more closely approximate the actual decision processes of auditors and other interested parties. Second, we develop a more parsimonious model using qualitative ‘bad news’ variables that prior research indicates measure financial distress. Past research has focused on the ‘usefulness’ of accounting numbers and therefore often ignored non‐accounting variables that may contribute to the classification accuracy of the distress prediction models. In addition, rather than use multiple financial ratios, we include a single variable of financial distress using the Zmijewski distress score that incorporates ratios measuring profitability, liquidity, and solvency. Finally, we develop and test a genetic algorithm neural network model. We examine its predictive ability to that of a backpropagation neural network and a model using multiple discriminant analysis. The results indicate that the misclassification cost of the genetic algorithm‐based neural network was the lowest among the models. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
An empirical comparison of flexible demand system functional forms
Authors: Fisher Douglas , Fleissig Adrian R. , Serletis Apostolos
Published: August 2002

This paper compares the performance of eight frequently used flexible forms that are either (1) locally flexible, (2) ‘effectively globally regular’, or (3) asymptotically globally flexible. Results show that the functions with global properties generally perform better, particularly those models having asymptotic properties. Results, using US consumption data, indicate substitutability among the components of consumption at most data points. There is also some interesting substitution volatility around the time of recessions in the USA. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Succimer treatment during ongoing lead exposure reduces tissue lead in suckling rats
Authors: Varnai Veda Marija , Piasek Martina , Blanuša Maja , Matek Sarić Marijana , Kostial Krista
Published: August 2002

There is a concern that oral treatment with succimer (meso‐2, 3‐dimercaptosuccinic acid, DMSA) can promote gastrointestinal lead absorption if not performed in a lead‐safe environment. The scope of our investigation was to evaluate the efficacy of oral DMSA treatment during oral lead exposure on tissue lead in suckling rats. Six‐day‐old Wistar rats of both genders were divided into two groups—untreated (Pb) and treated (Pb + DMSA)—with 10 animals per group. Lead (as acetate) was given orally at a dose of 2 mg kg−1 body weight day−1 for eight consecutive days (total dose 16 mg kg−1, i.e. 0.08 mmol kg−1). During this period the treated group received a daily dose of 0.5 mmol DMSA kg−1 body weight p.o. six times on days 1–3 and 6–8 of the experiment (total dose 3 mmol kg−1). Tissue lead was determined by means of atomic absorption spectrometry. The DMSA efficiently reduced the lead concentration in the analysed tissues (carcass, liver, kidneys and brain) by ∼50% compared with untreated controls. The pups' growth and organ weights were not affected. In conclusion, our results indicate that DMSA is an efficient oral lead chelator in sucklings even if challenged with ongoing lead exposure. Copyright © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Sexually dimorphic alterations of brain cortical dominance in rats prenatally exposed to TCDD
Authors: Zareba Grazyna , Hojo Rieko , Zareba Karolina M. , Watanabe Chiho , Markowski Vincent P. , Baggs Raymond B. , Weiss Bernard
Published: August 2002

Sexually dimorphic patterns of cortical lateralization are documented extensively in both human and animal brains. Male rats tend to exhibit pronounced right hemisphere dominance compared with females, whereas females typically exhibit more diffuse lateralization patterns and greater left hemisphere bias compared with males. Prenatal TCDD (2,3,7,8 tetrachlorodibenzo‐p‐dioxin) exposure produces demasculinization of male offspring sexual behavior. In previous studies, we showed a reversal of cortical dominance in rats after prenatal TCDD exposure on gestational day 18 (GD 18). The current study aimed to determine the nature of changes observed in rats exposed to TCDD on GD 8. In addition, locomotor activity was measured in male and female offspring on postnatal day (PND) 30, 60 and 90. Pregnant females were given, via gavage, a single dose of 0, 20, 60 or 180 ng kg−1 TCDD on GD 8. Cortical depth measurements were taken in selected brain regions in offspring 3 months old that had been exposed to the 180 ng kg−1 dose. Areas 2, 3, 17, 18a and 39 at bregmas −1.8, −3.8 and −5.8 were analyzed by quantifying digitized, enhanced images produced by a photomicroscope fitted with a special color camera. In both male and female offspring, cortical thicknesses in control brains exceeded those of exposed brains. In several brain areas of male offspring exposed to TCDD, right hemispheric dominance reversed to left hemispheric dominance. Female offspring brains showed a contrary move towards right hemisphere dominance. Motor activity in juvenile and mature animals did not differ among dose groups. These data demonstrate that prenatal exposure to TCDD reduces cortical thickness and alters the normal pattern of cortical asymmetry, a finding consistent with the sexually dimorphic behavioral effects induced by this agent. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effects of enamel matrix derivative to titanium implantation in rat femurs
Authors: Shimizu‐Ishiura Miho , Tanaka Shinpei , Lee Won‐Sik , Debari Kazuhiro , Sasaki Takahisa
Published: August 2002

The effects of enamel matrix derivative (EMD; Emdogain®) on new trabecular bone induction after pure bioinert titanium (Ti) implantation in the rat femur were examined by means of routine light and transmission electron microscopy, immunohistochemistry, and backscattered electron image analysis. Newly designed mini‐Ti implants (3.5 mm in length and 1.6 mm in diameter) were placed in the corticotrabecular area of the femur with either EMD or its carrier, propylene glycol alginate, as control. On post‐implantation days 4, 7, 14, and 30, the dissected femur was examined in the transverse direction through Ti implants. In both control and EMD‐applied femurs, trabecular bone formation was recognized over the implant surfaces and within medullary cavities even at 4 days post‐implantation. These newly formed bone trabeculae around the Ti implants were immunoreactive for bone sialoproteins as a bone matrix marker, and osteoclastic bone resorption became evident in these bone trabeculae after 7 days post‐implantation. Although trabecular bone area around the implants was markedly decreased at 30 days post‐implantation compared with those at 14 days, the trabecular bone areas in EMD‐applied femurs were significantly greater than those in propylene glycol alginate‐applied femurs at both 14 and 30 days post‐implantation. Our results suggest that EMD is an effective biological matrix for enhancing new trabecular bone induction and resulting attachment of orthopedic prostheses to the recipient bone. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res 60: 269–276, 2002; DOI 10.1002/jbm.10064
Evaluation of a novel hemostatic device in an ovine parenchymal organ bleeding model of normal and impaired hemostasis
Authors: Turner A. Simon , Parker Denise , Egbert Barbara , Maroney Marcee , Armstrong Rosa , Powers Noël
Published: August 2002

Bleeding is a problem encountered by many surgeons, often complicated by the presence of coagulopathy or anticoagulant. The hemostatic effectiveness of CoStasis® Surgical Hemostat (with bovine collagen, bovine thrombin, and autologous plasma) was evaluated and compared to a collagen sponge and to two investigational fibrin‐sealant preparations under conditions of normal and impaired coagulation. A liver resection and controlled incisions in spleens and kidneys were made in sheep. Time to complete hemostasis and total blood loss were measured. Tissue response was evaluated at 7, 30, 60, and 75 days. CoStasis®‐treated sites demonstrated significantly shorter time to hemostasis (all surgical sites combined) compared with fibrin sealant (investigational fibrin sealant 1) (p=.005) or collagen sponge (p=0.013). In anticoagulated animals, CoStasis® and fibrin sealant (investigational fibrin sealant 2) had comparable mean times to hemostasis, and CoStasis®‐treated sites exhibited lowered average blood loss compared to investigational fibrin‐sealant‐2 treated sites. CoStasis®‐treated sites demonstrated higher levels of tissue repair (lower inflammation, more extensive tissue repair, and less residual implant) compared to fibrin–sealant‐ or collagen–sponge‐treated sites in Phases I and II. These findings demonstrate that CoStasis® is a highly effective hemostatic agent for control of bleeding from parenchymal organs. Furthermore, under conditions of compromised coagulation, treatment with CoStasis® demonstrates a reduction in average blood loss when compared to treatment with fibrin sealant. © 2001 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res (Appl Biomater) 63: 37–47, 2002
Improvement in zirconia osseointegration by means of a biological glass coating: An in vitro and in vivo investigation
Authors: Aldini N. Nicoli , Fini M. , Giavaresi G. , Torricelli P. , Martini L. , Giardino R. , Ravaglioli A. , Krajewski A. , Mazzocchi M. , Dubini B. , Ponzi‐Bossi M. G. , Rustichelli F. , Stanic V.
Published: August 2002

The biocompatibility and osseointegration of zirconia (ZrO2), either coated with RKKP bioglaze® or uncoated, were evaluated in vitro and in vivo. The in vitro test was performed in human osteoblasts, whereas maximal sensitization was performed in 23 Dunkin Hurtley guinea pigs. RKKP bioglaze‐coated and uncoated (controls) ZrO2 cylinders were implanted in the distal femoral epiphyses of 14 Sprague‐Dawley rats under general anesthesia, and animals were sacrificed at 30 and 60 days. Lactate dehydrogenase, alkaline phosphatase, and Thiazolyl Blue (MTT) were tested in vitro. A graded score was used for evaluating the results of the sensitization test. Histomorphometry and microhardness testing were performed to quantify the osseointegration rate, as well as bone quality around the implants. Neither in vitro cytotoxicity nor sensitization were observed. Histomorphometry demonstrated that at 30 days, the affinity index was significantly higher in coated implants than in uncoated ones (p < 0.05); at 60 days, the behavior of coated implants was better than that of uncoated ones, but differences were not significant. Significant increases in bone microhardness were found at 1000 μm from the interface area for both uncoated (p < 0.0005) and RKKP bioglaze®‐coated (p < 0.0005) ZrO2, and also within 200 μm from the interface (p = 0.014) but only for coated ZrO2. These results suggest that RKKP bioglaze®‐coated ZrO2 permits biocompatible devices with improved osseointegration properties to be manufactured. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res 61: 282–289, 2002
The hydrolytic degradation of polydioxanone (PDSII) sutures. Part I: Morphological aspects
Authors: Ping Ooi Chui , Cameron Ruth E.
Published: August 2002

The morphological changes in polydioxanone sutures (PDSII), and the resulting changes in properties are explored as a function of in vitro degradation time with the use of small‐ and wide‐angle x‐ray scattering, optical microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, dynamic mechanical thermal analysis, and measurements of tensile properties and mass change. There are significant changes to the properties of the suture on initial hydration. In the time range of 0–80 days investigated, two subsequent stages of degradation are apparent. Chain scission is thought to occur in the first stage, beginning as soon as the chains become hydrated. However, in this stage, the effects of scission on the physical properties of the suture are not apparent. The transition from the first (dormant) stage to the second (active) stage, in which changes to the physical structure and mechanical properties of the fiber become measurable, is gradual, with the first change occurring after about 15 days. The relationships between the changes in the microstructure and the properties are discussed and a general model for the degradation process proposed. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res (Appl Biomater) 63: 280–290, 2002
In vitro and in vivo biocompatibility testing of Ti‐6Al‐7Nb alloy with and without plasma‐sprayed hydroxyapatite coating
Authors: Lavos‐Valereto I. C. , Wolynec S. , Deboni M. C. Z. , König B.
Published: August 2002

The Ti‐6Al‐7Nb alloy has been recently developed for biomedical use, particularly for orthopedics and dental applications. Osteosynthesis has been used to analyze biocompatibility and osseoconduction properties. The interaction of the implant with its biological environment, the formation of the implant material/tissue interface, and the long‐term success or failure of integration in the human body is strongly connected with the surface properties of the implant device. This study was undertaken to evaluate the processes involved in biological responses of the Ti‐6Al‐7Nb alloy with and without hydroxyapatite coatings with both in vitro and in vivo tests. The results were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy‐dispersive x‐ray (EDX) microanalysis. The morphology of the in vitro and in vivo testing results with hydroxyapatite coating was similar to those obtained on the uncoated samples. A mineralized extracellular matrix was formed on all materials. Observation of the interface between the cell layer and substrata showed the presence of calcium and phosphorous‐rich globular deposits associated with collagen fibers on all materials in vitro and in vivo. A higher density of these globular deposits was observed in all samples. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res (Appl Biomater) 58: 727–733, 2001
Interaction of bioactive glasses with peritoneal macrophages and monocytes in vitro
Authors: Bosetti M. , Hench L. , Cannas M.
Published: August 2002

Macrophage activation was analyzed following exposure to pure, crystalline α‐quartz powders, two bioactive gel‐glass powders of different compositions, and a melt‐derived glass, 45S5 Bioglass®. The release of reactive oxygen metabolites (chemiluminescence test), modifications of cell morphology, the amount of tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) secreted, and the amount of TNFα mRNA expression were evaluated. The 45S5 Bioglass® powders elicited the highest chemiluminescence response while the two sol‐gel glasses had a lower response with less of an oxidative burst difference between them. Particulate bioactive glasses are actively ingested by mouse peritoneal macrophages, and only the 58S sol‐gel glass had a moderate toxic effect on the macrophages. Macrophage cell morphology showed increased size and cell spreading, consistent with the high level of cytokine secretion induced by 45S5 Bioglass®. The 45S5 Bioglass® powders led to an increased release of TNFα and expression of TNFα mRNA relative to unstimulated and control treated monocytes. Bioactive glasses (and particularly 45S5 Bioglass®) that in vivo induce rapid bone growth appear to activate an autocrine‐like process in which the response evoked by the material (for example monocyte and macrophage activation with cytokine production) enhances subsequent interactions with cells in contact with the material. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Biomed Mater Res 60: 79–85, 2002
A critical look at the new purchase accounting for M&A transactions
Authors: Ketz J. Edward
Published: August 2002

The FASB recently published SFAS Nos. 141 and 142, which create big changes in the accounting for business
combinations. The author reviews some of the major features, and looks at some clues about where the FASB might
be going next. He also gives some savvy strategies for dealing with these accounting pronouncements—given
current economic conditions. © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Apoptosis induced by progesterone in human ovarian cancer cell line SNU‐840
Authors: Yu Sunhee , Lee Minhyung , Shin Seungjin , Park Jong‐sang
Published: August 2002

Progesterone has been used as an ingredient of anticancer drug for patients with ovarian carcinoma. However, the mechanism of anticancer effects by progesterone has not been understood. In this study, the effects of progesterone on ovarian cancer cells, SNU‐840, were investigated. After the incubation with progesterone, the viability of the cells was evaluated by MTT assay. As a result, 45% of the cells were viable after 48 h of incubation with 100 μM progesterone. In addition, [3H]thymidine incorporation assay showed that the proliferation of the cells was completely inhibited by progesterone after 48 h of incubation at 100 μM concentration. Colorimetric TUNEL assay revealed the fragmentation of the chromosomal DNA, suggesting that the process of the cell death was apoptosis. The level of the p53 mRNA was determined by northern blotting assay, since many apoptosis processes are mediated by up‐regulation of the p53 expression. The level of the p53 mRNA reached its maximum at 12 h and decreased after 24 h of incubation with progesterone. In conclusion, progesterone inhibits the proliferation and elicites apoptosis of SNU‐840 cells. Also, it up‐regulates the p53 mRNA transiently. J. Cell. Biochem. 82:445–451, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Induction of oxidative stress by homocyst(e)ine impairs endothelial function*
Authors: Mujumdar Vibhas S. , Aru Giorgio M. , Tyagi Suresh C.
Published: August 2002

Previous studies have demonstrated a relationship between hyperhomocysteinemia and endothelial dysfunction, reduced bioavailability of nitric oxide, elastinolysis and, vascular muscle cell proliferation. In vivo decreased nitric oxide production is associated with increased matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activity and formation of nitrotyrosine. To test the hypothesis that homocysteine neutralizes vascular endothelial nitric oxide, activates metalloproteinase, causes elastinolysis and vascular hypertrophy, we isolated aortas from normotensive Wistar rats and cultured them in medium containing homocysteine, and calf serum for 14 days. Homocysteine‐mediated impairment of endothelial‐dependent vasodilatation was reversed by co‐incubation of homocysteine with nicotinamide (an inhibitor of peroxinitrite and nitrotyrosine), suggesting a role of homocysteine in redox‐mediating endothelial dysfunction and nitrotyrosine formation. The Western blot analysis, using anti‐nitrotyrosine antibody, on aortic tissue homogeneates demonstrated decreased nitrotyrosine in hyperhomocysteinemic vessels treated with nicotinamide. Zymographic analysis revealed increased elastinolytic gelatinase A and B (MMP‐2, ‐9) in homocysteine treated vessels and the treatment with nicotinamide decreases the homocysteine‐induced MMP activation. Morphometric analyses revealed significant medial hypertrophic thickening (1.4 ± 0.2‐fold of control, P = 0.03) and elastin disruption in homocysteine‐treated vessels as compared to control. To determine whether homocysteine causes endothelial cell injury, cross‐sections of aortas were analyzed for caspase activity by incubating with Ac‐YVAD‐AMC (substrate for apoptotic enzyme, caspase). The endothelium of homocysteine treated vessels, and endothelial cells treated with homocysteine, showed marked labeling for caspase. The length‐tension relationship of homocysteine treated aortas was shifted to the left as compared to untreated aortas, indicating reduced vascular elastic compliance in homocysteine‐treated vessels. Co‐incubation of homocysteine and inhibitors of MMP, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase‐4 (TIMP‐4), and caspase, YVAD‐CHO, improved vascular function. The results suggest that alteration in vascular elastin/collagen ratio and activation of MMP‐2 are associated with decreased NO production in hyperhomocysteinemia. J. Cell. Biochem. 82:491–500, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Salvianolic acid B attenuates VCAM‐1 and ICAM‐1 expression in TNF‐α‐treated human aortic endothelial cells
Authors: Chen Yung‐Hsiang , Lin Shing‐Jong , Ku Hung‐Hai , Shiao Ming‐Shi , Lin Feng‐Yen , Chen Jaw‐Wen , Chen Yuh‐Lien
Published: August 2002

Attachment to, and migration of leukocytes into the vessel wall is an early event in atherogenesis. Expression of cell adhesion molecules by the arterial endothelium may play a major role in atherosclerosis. It has been suggested that antioxidants inhibit the expression of adhesion molecules and may thus attenuate the processes leading to atherosclerosis. In the present study, the effects of a potent water‐soluble antioxidant, salvianolic acid B (Sal B), and an aqueous ethanolic extract (SME), both derived from a Chinese herb, Salvia miltiorrhiza, on the expression of endothelial‐leukocyte adhesion molecules by tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α)‐treated human aortic endothelial cells (HAECs) were investigated. When pretreated with SME (50 and 100 μg/ml), the TNF‐α‐induced expression of vascular adhesion molecule‐1 (VCAM‐1) was notably attenuated (77.2 ± 3.2% and 80.0 ± 2.2%, respectively); and with Sal B (1, 2.5, 5, 10, and 20 μg/ml), 84.5 ± 1.9%, 78.8 ± 1.2%, 58.9 ± 0.4%, 58.7 ± 0.9%, and 57.4 ± 0.3%, respectively. Dose‐dependent lowering of expression of intercellular cell adhesion molecule‐1 (ICAM‐1) was also seen with SME or Sal B. In contrast, the expression of endothelial cell selectin (E‐selectin) was not affected. SME (50 μg/ml) or Sal B (5 μg/ml) significantly reduced the binding of the human monocytic cell line, U937, to TNF‐α‐stimulated HAECs (45.7 ± 2.5% and 55.8 ± 1.2%, respectively). SME or Sal B significantly inhibited TNF‐α‐induced activation of nuclear factor kappa B (NF‐κB) in HAECs (0.36‐ and 0.48‐fold, respectively). These results demonstrate that SME and Sal B have anti‐inflammatory properties and may explain their anti‐atherosclerotic properties. This new mechanism of action of Sal B and SME, in addition to their previously reported inhibition of LDL, may help explain their efficacy in the treatment of atherosclerosis. J. Cell. Biochem. 82:512–521, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Inhibition of connexin43 gap junctional intercellular communication by TPA requires ERK activation
Authors: Ruch Randall J. , Trosko James E. , Madhukar Burra V.
Published: August 2002

The phorbol ester, 12‐O‐tetradecanoylphorbol‐13‐acetate (TPA), is a potent inhibitor of gap junctional intercellular communication (GJIC). This inhibition requires activation of protein kinase C (PKC), but the events downstream of this kinase are not known. Since PKC can activate extracellular signal regulated kinases (ERKs) and these also downregulate GJIC, we hypothesized that the inhibition of GJIC by TPA involved ERKs. TPA treatment (10 ng/ml for 30 min) of WB‐F344 rat liver epithelial cells strongly activated p42 and p44 ERK‐1 and ‐2, blocked gap junction‐mediated fluorescent dye‐coupling, and induced connexin43 hyperphosphorylation and gap junction internalization. These effects were completely prevented by inhibitors of PKC (bis‐indolylmaleimide I; 2 μM) and ERK activation (U‐0126; 10 μM). These data suggest that ERKs are activated by PKC in response to TPA treatment and are downstream mediators of the gap junction effects of the phorbol ester. J. Cell. Biochem. 83: 163–169, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Caspase inhibition and N6‐benzyladenosine‐induced apoptosis in HL‐60 cells
Authors: Mlejnek P.
Published: August 2002

As an extension of our recently published work (Mlejnek and Kuglík [2000] J. Cell. Biochem. 77:6–17), the role of caspases in N6‐benzylaminopurine riboside (BAPR)‐induced apotosis in HL‐60 cells was evaluated in this study. Here, BAPR‐induced apoptosis was accompanied by activation of caspase‐3 and caspase‐9. However, when these caspases were selectively inhibited, the progression of BAPR‐induced apoptosis was not markedly affected. Besides that, activation of caspase‐3 and caspase‐9 was found to be rather late event in apoptotic process. These results suggested that other caspases might be critically implicated. Indeed, pan‐specific caspase inhibitor, Z‐VAD‐FMK, completely prevented DNA cleavage and apoptotic bodies formation. However, Z‐VAD‐FMK failed to prevent cell death and it was incapable to fully counteract the main apoptotic hallmark‐chromatin condensation. Finally, our data indicate that cellular decision between apoptosis and necrosis is made upon the availability of both caspase proteases and intracellular ATP. J. Cell. Biochem. 83: 678–689, 2001. © 2001 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Calculation of the free energy of solvation for neutral analogs of amino acid side chains
Authors: Villa Alessandra , Mark Alan E.
Published: August 2002

The ability of the GROMOS96 force field to reproduce partition constants between water and two less polar solvents (cyclohexane and chloroform) for analogs of 18 of the 20 naturally occurring amino acids has been investigated. The estimations of the solvation free energies in water, in cyclohexane solution, and chloroform solution are based on thermodynamic integration free energy calculations using molecular dynamics simulations. The calculations show that while the force field reproduces the experimental solvation free energies of nonpolar analogs with reasonable accuracy the solvation free energies of polar analogs in water are systematically overestimated (too positive). The dependence of the calculated free energies on the atomic partial charges was also studied. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Comput Chem 23: 548–553, 2002; DOI 10.1002/jcc.10052
The high cost of prescription privileges
Authors: Wagner Mervyn K.
Published: August 2002

This article presents some data regarding the costs in the augmentation of programs aimed at equipping psychologist to prescribe medications. Data are presented relative to the financial burden it will place on students, universities, internship sites, and the consumers of psychological services. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Psychol 58: 677–680, 2002.
Reliability and factor structure of the chinese version of the self‐report family inventory in Chinese adolescents
Authors: Shek Daniel T.L.
Published: August 2002

The Chinese version (C‐SFI) of the Self‐Report Family Inventory (SFI) was administered to 3,649 Chinese adolescents. Results showed that the C‐SFI is internally consistent. Factor analyses revealed that two factors were abstracted from the scale (positive family behavior and negative family behavior), and they could reliably be reproduced in different adolescent subsamples based on gender and grade. Contrary to the previous findings that there are five to six dimensions of the SFI, the present findings show that the C‐SFI has two dimensions. This study suggests that clinical practitioners should be cautious in using the subscales in the SFI, particularly for the Chinese. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Clin Psychol 57: 375–385, 2001.
Predictors of deterioration among patients with substance‐use disorders
Authors: Moos Rudolf H. , Moos Bernice S. , Finney John W.
Published: August 2002

The purpose of this study was to identify patients with substance‐use disorders who deteriorate during treatment, and to examine baseline predictors of deterioration. Three groups of 872 patients each, matched on number of problems at baseline, were selected from a larger sample based on their treatment outcome (improved, nonresponsive, deteriorated). Deterioration was predicted by younger age and African‐American race; four aspects of patients' history (psychiatric symptoms, arrests, prior drug treatment, and recent inpatient or residential care); and having no close friends. Patients who had both an alcohol and a drug diagnosis, a personality‐disorder diagnosis, and those who had a shorter episode of care and fewer outpatient‐mental‐health visits, also were more likely to deteriorate. © 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. J Clin Psychol 57: 1403–1419, 2001.
Many actions of cyclooxygenase‐2 in cellular dynamics and in cancer
Authors: Cao Yang , Prescott Stephen M.
Published: August 2002

Cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) is the inducible isoform of cyclooxygenase, the enzyme that catalyzes the rate‐limiting step in prostaglandin synthesis from arachidonic acid. Various prostaglandins are produced in a cell type‐specific manner, and they elicit cellular functions via signaling through G‐protein coupled membrane receptors, and in some cases, through the nuclear receptor PPAR. COX‐2 utilization of arachidonic acid also perturbs the level of intracellular free arachidonic acid and subsequently affects cellular functions. In a number of cell and animal models, induction of COX‐2 has been shown to promote cell growth, inhibit apoptosis and enhance cell motility and adhesion. The mechanisms behind these multiple actions of COX‐2 are largely unknown. Compelling evidence from genetic and clinical studies indicates that COX‐2 upregulation is a key step in carcinogenesis. Overexpression of COX‐2 is sufficient to cause tumorigenesis in animal models and inhibition of the COX‐2 pathway results in reduction in tumor incidence and progression. Therefore, the potential for application of non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs as well as the recently developed COX‐2 specific inhibitors in cancer clinical practice has drawn tremendous attention in the past few years. Inhibition of COX‐2 promises to be an effective approach in the prevention and treatment of cancer, especially colorectal cancer. J. Cell. Physiol. 190: 279–286, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.