bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Area ablation: A new lasing concept provides significantly enhanced acute and long‐term results for treatment of in‐stent restenosis
Authors: Dahm Johannes B. , Kuon Eberhard , Hummel Astrid , Möx Bernhard , Staudt Alexander , Felix Stephan B.
Published: October 2002

Background and Objectives

Debulking is still a technique of choice for in‐stent restenosis (ISR). Excimer laser debulking has enabled high procedural success with very low complication rates, but has demonstrated markedly heterogeneous results owing to differences in lazing and laser technology, and selected patient populations. Since new area‐ablation technique enables ablation of larger areas than its own device size, we have evaluated their effectiveness and safety in an uncontrolled study.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

Fifty‐three patients with diffuse ISR were treated by laser area ablation, followed by adjunctive balloon angioplasty. Primary endpoint was percent of binary stenosis at 6‐month follow‐up; secondary endpoints were procedural success; target lesion revascularization (TLR); major adverse cardiac events (MACE); diameter stenosis (DS); and minimal lumen diameter (MLD) before and after laser debulking, and at 6‐month follow‐up.

Results

Laser debulking was feasible (as defined as ≤30% residual stenosis) in 98.1% of patients. At 6‐month follow‐up, binary stenosis was 26.4%; angiographic TLR, 20.7%; and MACE, 3.7%. DS decreased from 87±17% to 20 ± 9% after laser debulking, and to 9±7% after PTCA; it was 29±14% at follow‐up (P‐values in comparison to baseline: 0.0047; 0.0036; 0.0064). MLD increased from 0.6±0.3 to 2.4±0.5 mm after laser debulking, to 2.8± 0.6 mm after adjunctive PTCA, and to 1.9 ± 0.4 mm at follow‐up (P‐values in comparison to baseline: 0.0059; 0.0031; 0.0088).

Conclusions

Owing to a significantly greater MLD, area ablation facilitates significantly enhanced immediate and follow‐up results for diffuse ISR, including a simpler and more effective laser‐debulking procedure than former lasing techniques. Lasers Surg. Med. 31:1–8, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Ablation rate and micromorphological aspects with Nd:YAG picosecond pulsed laser on primary teeth
Authors: Lizarelli Rosane de F.Z. , Moriyama Lilian T. , Bagnato Vanderlei S.
Published: October 2002

Background and Objectives

We have investigated the fundamental aspects of Nd:YAG laser at the picosecond pulse regime interacting with primary teeth. Because little is present in the literature concerning specific laser ablation for primary teeth with respect to enamel and dentin, this work may open perspectives for new investigations.

Study Design/Materials and Methods

Using a picosecond Nd:YAG laser, different power levels (200, 300, and 350 mW) and different exposition times (5, 10, and 15 seconds) were considered.

Results

Micro‐morphological aspects of the laser‐tooth interaction showed collateral effects in enamel more accentuated than in dentin. Penetration depth in dentin seems to scale up in rate as the time of application progress, for enamel the behavior is the opposite. The overall ablated volume is higher in dentin when compared with enamel, which results in a higher ablated rate as well.

Conclusions

Specific ablation characteristics are observed in either dentin or enamel. Lasers Surg. Med. 31:177–185, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Hepatoblastoma and low birth weight: A trend or chance observation?
Authors: Feusner James , Plaschkes J.
Published: October 2002

Background

Several reports have suggested an association between prematurity and hepatoblastoma (HB).

Procedure

Data were collected by questionnaires from 105 children with HB enrolled in a Children's Cancer Group (CCG) study.

Results

Observed over expected rates were increased about 2− and 15+‐fold for prematurity (<37 weeks at birth) and low birth weight (<1,000 g) respectively. Similar data were derived from a later CCG study of 36 HB children.

Conclusions

Early reports of a possible association between prematurity and HB have been confirmed. Med Pediatr Oncol 2002;39:508–509. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Chromosome condensation in pig oocytes: Lack of a requirement for either cdc2 kinase or MAP kinase activity
Authors: Kubelka Michal , Anger Martin , Kalous Jaroslav , Schultz Richard M. , MotlÍk Jan
Published: October 2002

In this study, butyrolactone I (BL I), a potent and specific inhibitor of cyclin‐dependent kinases (cdk), is shown to inhibit germinal vesicle breakdown (GVBD) in pig oocytes. Oocytes treated with 100 μM BL I were arrested in the germinal vesicle (GV)‐stage and displayed low activity of cdc2 kinase and MAP kinase. Nevertheless, chromosome condensation occurred and highly condensed bivalents were seen within an intact GV after a 24‐hr culture in the presence of BL I. The inhibitory effect of BL I on MAP kinase activation during culture was likely mediated through a cdk‐dependent pathway, since MAP kinase activity present in extracts derived from metaphase II eggs was not inhibited by BL I. The block of GVBD could be released by treating oocytes with okadaic acid (OA), an inhibitor of type 1 and 2A phosphatases; 82% of the oocytes treated with the combination of OA/BL I underwent GVBD, and MAP kinase became activated, while cdc2 kinase remained inhibited. These results suggest that both chromosome condensation and GVBD could occur without activation of cdc2 kinase, whereas an increase in MAP kinase activity may be a requisite for GVBD in pig oocytes in conditions when cdc2 kinase activation is blocked by BL I. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 63: 110–118, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Effects of pelvic floor muscle training on strength and predictors of response in the treatment of urinary incontinence
Authors: Theofrastous J.P. , Wyman J.F. , Bump R.C. , McClish D.K. , Elser D.M. , Bland D.R. , Fantl J.A.
Published: October 2002

Aims

The objectives of this study were (1) to determine the effect of training on pelvic floor muscle strength; (2) to determine whether changes in pelvic floor muscle strength correlate with changes in continence; and (3) to determine whether demographic characteristics, clinical incontinence severity indices, or urodynamic measures predict response to pelvic floor muscle training.

Methods

One hundred thirty‐four women with urinary incontinence (95=genuine stress incontinence [GSI]; 19=detrusor instability [DI]; 20=mixed incontinence [GSI+DI]) were randomized to pelvic floor muscle training (n=67) or bladder training (n=67). Urinary diaries, urodynamic evaluation, and vaginal pressure measurements by using balloon manometry were performed at baseline and after 12 weeks of therapy. Primary outcome measures consisted of incontinent episodes per week and vaginal pressure measurements.

Results

Both treatment groups had a reduction in incontinent episodes (P≤0.004). Vaginal pressures increased more with pelvic floor muscle training than with bladder training (P=0.0003). Other than a weak correlation between a reduction in incontinent episodes/week and an increase in maximum sustained vaginal pressure in women with GSI (r=0.32, P=0.04), there were no significant correlations between increases in pelvic floor muscle strength and improvement in continence status. There were no significant correlations between baseline demographic characteristics, clinical incontinence severity, or urodynamic measures and increases in vaginal pressure or improvement in clinical severity after pelvic floor muscle training.

Conclusions

Pelvic floor muscle training improves continence and increases vaginal pressure measurements, but the direct correlations between these alterations are weak. A woman's response to behavioral treatment does not depend on her demographic characteristics, clinical incontinence severity, urodynamic measures, or initial pelvic floor muscle strength. Neurourol. Urodynam. 21:486–490, 2002. © Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Compliance with recommendations of the urodynamic society for standards of efficacy for evaluation of treatment outcomes in urinary incontinence
Authors: Lee Robert S. , DeAntoni Edward , Daneshgari Firouz
Published: October 2002

The Urodynamic Society (US) published (1997) minimal standards to assess the efficacy of therapy for urinary incontinence (UI). The standards were developed by a US committee and were approved by the American Urological Society. The objective of our study was to evaluate compliance with these standards in recent UI research studies. A MEDLINE search was conducted for all articles in which outcomes of treatment for UI were reported (November, 1997–October, 1999). Reported data were compared with the recommended minimum standards including pre‐ and posttreatment data. Compliance rates for each data field were calculated by percentages for (1) the individual article and (2) overall compliance rate among all articles. A total of 39 articles that reported treatment for UI were selected. The treatments included various surgical procedures, injectables, pharmacologic treatments, and mechanical valves. Overall compliance for each article varied between 0% and 100%. Only one article met all 100% of the recommendations and one met none. The overall mean compliance rate for each article was 29%. We conclude that there is far less than optimal reporting of outcomes for treatment of UI per the recommendations of the Urodynamic Society. This low compliance makes standardized evaluation of treatment outcomes of UI difficult if not impossible. We suggest that initiation of funded cooperative clinical trials may improve the standardization in UI. Neurourol. Urodynam. 21:482–485, 2002. © Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
The application of an artificial neural network in the identification of medicinal rhubarbs by near‐infrared spectroscopy
Authors: Xiang Lan , Fan Guoqiang , Li Junhui , Kang Hui , Yan Yanlu , Zheng Junhua , Guo Dean
Published: October 2002

This paper describes a method to combine near‐infrared spectroscopy and a three layer back‐propagation artificial neural network in order to identify official and unofficial rhubarbs. Thirty‐three samples were taken as the training set, and 62 samples as the test set. The effects of input node number, learning rate and momentum on the final error and recognition accuracy for the training set, and on prediction accuracy for the test set were determined. A neural network with eight input nodes, a 0.5 learning rate, and a momentum of 0.3 can achieve a recognition accuracy of 100% for the training set and a prediction accuracy of 96.8% for the test set. The method described offers a quick and efficient means of identifying rhubarbs. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The effects of interactive music therapy on hospitalized children with cancer: a pilot study
Authors: Barrera Maru E. , Rykov Mary H. , Doyle Sandra L.
Published: October 2002

Background. The use of music therapy with children in health settings has been documented, but its effectiveness has not yet been well established. This pilot study is a preliminary exploration of the effectiveness of interactive music therapy in reducing anxiety and increasing the comfort of hospitalized children with cancer.

Methods. Pre‐ and post‐music therapy measures were obtained from children (N=65) and parents. The measures consisted of children's ratings of mood using schematic faces, parental ratings of the child's play performance, and satisfaction questionnaires completed by parents, children and staff.

Results. There was a significant improvement in children's ratings of their feelings from pre‐ to post‐music therapy. Parents perceived an improved play performance after music therapy in pre‐schoolers and adolescents but not in school‐aged children. Qualitative analyses of children's and parents' comments suggested a positive impact of music therapy on the child's well‐being.

Conclusions. These preliminary findings are encouraging and suggest beneficial effects of interactive music therapy with hospitalized pediatric hematology/oncology patients. In future studies replicating these findings should be conducted in a randomized control trial. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Effectiveness and tolerability of high‐dose salmeterol in cystic fibrosis
Authors: Hordvik Nancy L. , Sammut Paul H. , Judy C. Gerald , Colombo John L.
Published: October 2002

The efficacy and tolerability of high‐dose salmeterol (100 mcg, BID) and albuterol (2.5 mg, BID) were compared with those of albuterol (2.5 mg, BID) in outpatients with cystic fibrosis in a randomized, double‐blind, double‐dummy, placebo‐controlled, crossover study with both short‐ (4 weeks of each) and long‐term (24 weeks of each) treatment periods. The primary outcome measure was the difference in mean change in forced expired volume in 1 sec (FEV1) from baseline to the end of each treatment, and secondary measures included changes in forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory flow between 25–75% of FVC (FEF25–75), patient‐rated weekly symptom scores, number of extra (rescue) albuterol treatments, and number of antibiotic treatments. Tolerability was evaluated by changes in vital signs and adverse events.

Thirty‐six out of 44 patients enrolled finished the short‐term treatment period, and 19 out of 23 who continued the study also finished the long‐term treatment period. There was no significant difference in the mean % change in FEV1 from baseline to completion of 4 weeks with each drug in the short‐term treatment period (0.1% vs. 0.06%, albuterol vs. salmeterol; respectively). In the long‐term treatment period, there was a significant decrease from baseline in FEV1 with albuterol vs. salmeterol, as measured after both 12 and 24 weeks of each treatment (−6.2% vs. 1.8%, P = 0.013 after 12 weeks, and −6.5% vs. 1.7%, P = 0.002, after 24 weeks, respectively). In both treatment periods, salmeterol was well‐tolerated. While there were more rescue treatments per patient per week with albuterol than with salmeterol treatment in both the short‐ and long‐term periods (0.67 vs. 0.40 and 1.76 vs. 0.74, respectively), rescue treatments were needed significantly more often for only the long‐term period with albuterol compared to salmeterol (P = 0.022). Also, there were more antibiotic interventions with albuterol than with salmeterol treatment in both the short‐ and long‐term periods (25 vs. 10 and 56 vs. 42, respectively); however, antibiotics were needed significantly more often for only the short‐term period (P = 0.011). In addition, there was a significantly higher symptom score with albuterol vs. salmeterol treatment during the second half of the long‐term period (1.24 vs. 0.89, P = 0.001).

In conclusion, long‐term high‐dose salmeterol was equally safe and was associated with better pulmonary function, fewer interventions, and fewer respiratory symptoms compared to standard therapy with albuterol in a population of outpatients with mild to moderate CF. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2002; 34:287–296. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Structural parameterization of the binding enthalpy of small ligands
Authors: Luque Irene , Freire Ernesto
Published: October 2002

A major goal in ligand and drug design is the optimization of the binding affinity of selected lead molecules. However, the binding affinity is defined by the free energy of binding, which, in turn, is determined by the enthalpy and entropy changes. Because the binding enthalpy is the term that predominantly reflects the strength of the interactions of the ligand with its target relative to those with the solvent, it is desirable to develop ways of predicting enthalpy changes from structural considerations. The application of structure/enthalpy correlations derived from protein stability data has yielded inconsistent results when applied to small ligands of pharmaceutical interest (MW < 800). Here we present a first attempt at an empirical parameterization of the binding enthalpy for small ligands in terms of structural information. We find that at least three terms need to be considered: (1) the intrinsic enthalpy change that reflects the nature of the interactions between ligand, target, and solvent; (2) the enthalpy associated with any possible conformational change in the protein or ligand upon binding; and, (3) the enthalpy associated with protonation/deprotonation events, if present. As in the case of protein stability, the intrinsic binding enthalpy scales with changes in solvent accessible surface areas. However, an accurate estimation of the intrinsic binding enthalpy requires explicit consideration of long‐lived water molecules at the binding interface. The best statistical structure/enthalpy correlation is obtained when buried water molecules within 5–7 Å of the ligand are included in the calculations. For all seven protein systems considered (HIV‐1 protease, dihydrodipicolinate reductase, Rnase T1, streptavidin, pp60c‐Src SH2 domain, Hsp90 molecular chaperone, and bovine β‐trypsin) the binding enthalpy of 25 small molecular weight peptide and nonpeptide ligands can be accounted for with a standard error of ±0.3 kcal · mol−1. Proteins 2002;49:181–190. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Synthesis and study of a gramicidin B mutant possessing a ditryptophan crosslink
Authors: Presley Bodnar Alice L. , Gilbert Eric J. , Yoburn Joshua C. , Van Vranken David L.
Published: October 2002

Recent studies of peptide dimers linked by Trp‐Trp (ditryptophan) crosslinks suggest that the crosslinks can reinforce antiparallel β‐structure. Depending on environment, gramicidins A, B and C form either helical ion channels with parallel β‐structure or non‐functional pores with antiparallel β‐structure. In the channel conformation of the gramicidins Trp9 and Trp15 are close in space, but in the pore conformation Trp9 and Trp15 are far apart. We hypothesized that a ditryptophan crosslink between Trp9 and Trp15 could pre‐organize gramicidin in an active conformation. To test the potential for pre‐organization, an intramolecular ditryptophan crosslink was formed between Trp9 and Trp15 in a W13F mutant of gramicidin B. Photooxidative conditions were shown to generate ditryptophan crosslinks in low yields. While not preparatively useful, photooxidative tryptophan crosslinking may have implications for protein aging processes like cataract formation. The ditryptophan crosslink in the gramicidin B mutant substantially lowered the antibiotic activity of the gramicidin B mutant, unlike the ditryptophan crosslink in the antibiotic X‐indolicidin. The biaryl chromophore generated diagnostic Cotton effects in the CD spectrum that revealed the absolute stereochemistry of the biaryl chromophore, but the biaryl chromophore obscured diagnostic features below 220 nm. However, changes in peptide conformation were reflected in changes in the biaryl region of the CD spectrum above 240 nm. Copyright © 2002 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Remote monitoring of vehicle shock and vibrations
Authors: Rouillard V.
Published: October 2002

This paper describes the development of a new device to remotely monitor shocks and vibrations generated by industrial and commercial transport vehicles. The acceleration levels are measured with an accelerometer connected to a programmable microprocessor equipped with analogue‐to‐digital converters and wireless communication modules. The paper gives a thorough description of the system, which relies on the real‐time analysis and compression of shock and vibration data to enable efficient data transmission to a host computer station via wireless terrestrial and satellite networks. The host computer accommodates a purpose‐designed software program to store the received information in a database, as well as to compute and display shock and vibration levels, trends and statistics. The system is designed so that configuration, data retrieval and analysis are performed remotely via standard Internet browsers. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The role of Epstein–Barr virus‐encoded small RNAs (EBERs) in oncogenesis
Authors: Nanbo Asuka , Takada Kenzo
Published: October 2002

Epstein–Barr virus (EBV)‐encoded RNAs (EBERs) are the most abundant viral transcripts in latently EBV‐infected cells. Recently, we found that EBERs play a key role in the maintenance of malignant phenotypes of Burkitt's lymphoma (BL) cells. They confer clonability in soft agarose, tumorigenicity in immunodeficient mice, resistance to apoptosis and induction of interleukin (IL)‐10, which acts as an autocrine growth factor of BL cells. Furthermore, we demonstrated that EBERs confer resistance to interferon (IFN)‐α‐induced apoptosis by inhibition of double‐stranded (ds) RNA‐activated protein kinase (PKR), which is the key mediator of the antiviral effect of IFN‐α. These studies provide a new notion that RNA molecules contribute to oncogenesis. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A review of hydroecological results of the Northern River Basins Study, Canada. Part 1. Peace and Slave rivers
Authors: Prowse T. D. , Conly F. M. , Church M. , English M. C.
Published: October 2002

During the early 1990s a multi‐component research programme was initiated by the Northern River Basins Study (NRBS) in Canada to answer the question: How does and how could flow regulation affect the aquatic ecosystem? Research focused on the major headwaters of the Mackenzie River, the Peace and Slave rivers, which became regulated in 1968 by the W.A.C. Bennett Dam in the Rocky Mountains. The lack of knowledge about the hydroecology of large northern rivers as well as a paucity of data for this relatively isolated basin required that studies be undertaken to assess how flow regulation had modified the physical template of this system. Research focused on quantifying the regulation effects on the flow regime, ice conditions, fluvial geomorphology and riparian vegetation of the Peace and Slave rivers and the Slave River Delta.

Results of the NRBS studies indicate that regulation of the Peace River has shifted the pattern of seasonal flows and damped flow extremes creating a less variable annual regime. Increased winter releases from the reservoir have virtually eliminated the formation of a complete winter ice cover for a significant distance below the dam and delayed ice‐cover formation farther downstream. Higher ice levels that accompany increased winter flows are thought to affect the frequency and magnitude of ecologically important ice‐induced floods that occur during the spring. Although more difficult to link solely to the effects of flow regulation, pronounced morphologic and vegetation changes have been observed along the Peace River, including channel narrowing via the abandonment of secondary/backwater channels and in‐channel shoaling along the lower reaches. Vegetation succession has been especially evident on abandoned bar surfaces. Morphological changes were also observed in the Slave River Delta, particularly along the ecologically sensitive outer margin of the delta. Copyright © 2002 Environment Canada. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Surface studies of a chalcogenide glass ferric ion‐selective electrode Part 2: The effects of inorganic ions, organic ligands and seawater on sensor response
Authors: Pejcic Bobby , De Marco Roland , Prince Kathryn
Published: October 2002

X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) have been used to investigate the effect of inorganic ions, organic ligands and seawater on the response of the FeIII ion‐selective electrode (ISE). X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy has shown that the formation of antimony(V) oxide/hydroxide on the chalcogenide glass membrane soaked in seawater is dictated by electrode kinetics. It has been found that selenide atoms in the chalcogenide glass are replaced by oxygen in the presence of seawater. Furthermore, EIS aging studies demonstrated that the chalcogenide glass membrane experiences a sluggish charge transfer reaction in seawater. By contrast, SIMS imaging and depth profiling on various regions of a seawater‐exposed membrane identified a phase comprising iron oxide–hydroxide–carbonate–carboxylate. Furthermore, SIMS revealed a uniform chemisorption of oxygen on the membrane surface, and adsorption does not appear to be related to specific coordination sites. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy failed to detect any chloride chemisorption on the membrane surface, whereas in situ EIS showed that chloride along with hydroxide ions facilitate the charge transfer process of the FeIII ISE. Moreover, the effect of humic acid on the FeIII ISE was studied using EIS. The results of this XPS, SIMS and EIS study have enabled the derivation of a response mechanism for the FeIII ISE in seawater. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A graphical method for exploring heterogeneity in meta‐analyses: application to a meta‐analysis of 65 trials
Authors: Baujat Bertrand , Mahé Cédric , Pignon Jean‐Pierre , Hill Catherine
Published: October 2002

Heterogeneity can be a major component of meta‐analyses and by virtue of that fact warrants investigation. Classic analysis methods, such as meta‐regression, are used to explore the sources of heterogeneity. However, it may be difficult to apply such a method in complex cases or in the absence of an a priori hypothesis. This paper presents a graphical method to identify trials, groups of trials or groups of patients that are sources of heterogeneity. The contribution of these trials to the overall result can also be evaluated with this method. Each trial is represented by a dot on a 2D graph. The X‐axis represents the contribution of the trial to the overall Cochran Q‐test for heterogeneity. The Y‐axis represents the influence of the trial, defined as the standardized squared difference between the treatment effects estimated with and without the trial. This approach has been applied to data from the Meta‐Analysis of Chemotherapy in Head and Neck Cancer (MACH‐NC) comprising 10850 patients in 65 randomized trials. The graphical method allowed us to identify trials that contributed considerably to the overall heterogeneity and had a strong influence on the overall result. It also provided useful information for the interpretation of heterogeneity in this meta‐analysis. The proposed graphical method identifies trials that account for most of the heterogeneity without having to explore all possible sources of heterogeneity by subgroup analyses. This method can also be applied to identify types of patients that explain heterogeneity in the treatment effect. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Roots and branches: a brief, picaresque, personal history of systems theory
Authors: Bausch Kenneth C.
Published: October 2002

Social Systems Theory has a long and distinguished history. It has progressed from a mechanical model of social processes, to a biological model, to a process model, to models that encompass chaos, complexity, evolution and autopoiesis. Social systems design methodology is ready for the twenty‐first century. From General Systems Theory's early days of glory and hubris, through its days of decline and disparagement, through its diaspora into different disciplines, systems theory is today living up to its early expectations. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Fos expression in GABAergic cells and cells immunopositive for NMDA receptors in the inferior and superior colliculi following audiogenic seizures in rats
Authors: Ishida Yasushi , Nakahara Daiichiro , Hashiguchi Hiroyuki , Nakamura Masato , Ebihara Kosuke , Takeda Ryuichiro , Nishimori Toshikazu , Niki Hiroaki
Published: October 2002

Given the evidence that the inferior colliculus (IC) and superior colliculus (SC) seem to play key roles in connecting auditory pathways and seizure output pathways in the neuronal network for audiogenic seizures (AS) in rats, we examined Fos activation in GABAergic cells and cells immunopositive for glutamate N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate (NMDA) receptors in the IC and SC following AS using the double‐labeling procedure. Generalized tonic‐clonic seizures (GTCS), which developed as an advanced form of AS in some of the susceptible rats, induced an increase in Fos expression in three IC substructures—the dorsal cortex of IC (DCIC), central nucleus of IC (CIC), and external cortex of IC (ECIC)—and in one SC substructure, the deep gray layer of SC (DpG). Compared with the rats showing GTCS, rats exhibiting wild running (WR) without proceeding to GTCS showed a different pattern of AS‐induced Fos expression. The DpG in the WR animals showed no significant increase in the levels of Fos‐like immunoreactivity. The degrees of Fos activation that occurred in GABAergic cells and cells immunopositive for NMDA receptors were similar in the DCIC, CIC, ECIC, and DpG following AS. These results suggest that Fos activation in the DpG is involved in the development from WR to GTCS in AS‐susceptible rats. They also provide some evidence that some GABAergic neurons in the IC and SC and glutamatergic afferents (via NMDA receptors) to these structures are activated by AS. Synapse 46:100–107, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A tripeptide discriminator for stop codon recognition
Authors: Nakamura Yoshikazu , Ito Koichi
Published: October 2002

Only recently has it been established that a tripeptide in the bacterial release factors (RFs), RF1 and RF2, is responsible for the stop codon recognition. This functional mimic of the anticodon of tRNA is referred to as a tripeptide ‘anticodon’ or a tripeptide discriminator. Here we review the experimental background and process leading to this discovery, and strengthen functional evidence for the tripeptide determinant for deciphering stop codons in mRNAs in prokaryotes.
Translational regulations as specific traits of chloroplast gene expression
Authors: Choquet Yves , Wollman Francis-André
Published: October 2002

Studies of protein synthesis in the chloroplast compartment have revealed a unique combination of translational autoregulations and trans‐regulations due to the delivery of a variety of nuclear factors that act post‐transcriptionally. We show how these two characteristics concur to set the major step in the regulation of chloroplast gene expression at the translational level, leading to a surprisingly low sensitivity of chloroplast protein synthesis in response to extensive changes in plastome copy number and transcript concentration.
Dephosphorylation of the inhibitory phosphorylation site S287 in Xenopus Cdc25C by protein phosphatase‐2A is inhibited by 14‐3‐3 binding
Authors: Hutchins James R.A , Dikovskaya Dina , Clarke Paul R
Published: October 2002

Cdc25C phosphatase induces mitosis by dephosphorylating and activating Cdc2/cyclin B protein kinase. Phosphorylation of Xenopus Cdc25C at serine 287 creates a binding site for a 14‐3‐3 protein and restrains activation during interphase. Here, we show that dephosphorylation of S287 is catalysed by protein phosphatase‐2A in Xenopus egg extracts. 14‐3‐3 protein binding to Cdc25C inhibits dephosphorylation of S287, providing a mechanism to maintain phosphorylation of that site during interphase. The rate of dephosphorylation of S287 is not increased in mitotic extracts, indicating that the phosphorylation status of the site is likely to be controlled through modulation of kinases or 14‐3‐3 binding activity.
Patient care and the health‐impaired practitioner
Authors: Cook R.J , Dickens B.M
Published: October 2002

The risk of HIV‐infected or otherwise impaired practitioners infecting or injuring their patients is very low, but is of proper concern to patients, practitioners and healthcare facilities. Practitioners’ general legal and ethical duties to protect patients includes protection against their own liability to present risk of harm. Healthcare facilities have similar duties of care to protect patients, for instance by proper selection and management of personnel, but may also bear indirect or vicarious (‘no fault’) legal liability for injuries due to the negligence of the personnel they engage. Impaired practitioners should disclose their status to licensing and health facility authorities. They are entitled to non‐discriminatory employment opportunities, but may be licensed and approved to practice under conditions that appropriately protect patients. When impaired practitioners practice within such approved conditions, modern courts hold that they have no legal duty to volunteer disclosure of their status to their patients.
Stimulus-induced craving and startle potentiation in abstinent alcoholics and controls
Authors: Grüsser S.-M. , Heinz A. , Raabe A. , Wessa M. , Podschus J. , Flor H.
Published: October 2002

Abstinent alcoholics often denycraving for alcohol but still show a high level of relapse. The eyeblink response to startling noise was used as an indicator of the emotional response to alcohol-related, positive, negative and neutral visual stimuli in abstinent alcoholics, social drinkers and rarelydrinking controls. The cognitive evaluation of the stimuli was assessed byratings of subjective craving, valence and arousal. The startle response of the alcoholics to alcohol-related stimuli was significantlyinhibited despite an aversive overt stimulus-evaluation. These findings indicate that alcohol-related stimuli mayhave appetitive incentive salience for alcoholics in spite of verbal reports of craving and valence to the opposite.
Closed-End Investment Companies
Authors: Reichert Carolyn , Timmons J. Douglas
Published: October 2002

Studies conducted in the past have identified inefficiencies in the market for Closed- End Investment Company (CEIC) shares. In addition, studies have demonstrated the potential for trading strategies to exploit these inefficiencies. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the possibility of achieving excess returns through the utilization of relatively simple strategies not requiring continuous monitoring of discount(s) orfrequent trading. Our investigation demonstrates that realizing excess returns through the use of simple mechanical trading strategies will not be possible.
Recovery of cardiac autonomic responsiveness with low‐intensity physical training in patients with chronic heart failure
Authors: Malfatto Gabriella , Branzi Giovanna , Riva Beatrice , Sala Luca , Leonetti Gastone , Facchini Mario
Published: October 2002

Background:

A gradual worsening of autonomic control of cardiovascular function accompanies the progression of heart failure. Exercise training modulates autonomic balance, and may affect the prognosis of the disease.

Aims:

The sympathovagal balance was studied after 3 months of low‐intensity rehabilitation compared with conventional therapy in 45 patients with heart failure (52% ischemic, 48% idiopathic), of whom 30 underwent rehabilitation and 15 did not. In 11 rehabilitated patients we also studied the effects on autonomic profile of 6 additional months of home‐based training. Rehabilitated and non‐rehabilitated patients had similar NYHA class, ejection fraction, exercise pVO2; 50% assumed carvedilol (39±5 mg/day).

Methods and results:

Autoregressive power spectral density of RR intervals variability were assessed during 10 min of: (1) supine rest and free breathing; (2) supine rest and breathing at 20 acts/min (‐ vagal stimulus); (3) standing (‐ sympathetic stimulus). During each period, the ratio LF/HF of the individual autospectrum indicated the sympathovagal balance. After 3 months of rehabilitation, pVO2 increased (20%); LF/HF at rest was unchanged (8.7±1.2 vs. 9.2±1.2); it decreased with controlled breathing (−18%) and increased during standing (+79%) (P<0.05). These changes were more evident after 6 months of home‐based training, when pVO2 was still high: LF/HF at rest was reduced (5.4±0.9 vs. 8.5±2.1), decreased during controlled breathing (−17%) and increased during standing (87%) (P < 0.05). No changes in any variable were seen in non‐rehabilitated patients.

Conclusions:

A low intensity rehabilitation program restores autonomic tone and reactivity to vagal and sympathetic stimuli. Some of these effects are already evident after the initial hospital‐based phase.
Glucose insulin potassium infusion improves systolic function in patients with chronic ischemic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Cottin Yves , Lhuillier Isabelle , Gilson Laurent , Zeller Marianne , Bonnet Caroline , Toulouse Christine , Louis Pierre , Rochette Luc , Girard Claude , Wolf Jean‐Eric
Published: October 2002

Objective:

We assessed the effects of glucose–insulin–potassium (GIK) by echocardiography in stable patients with ischemic dysfunction.

Methods:

Twelve male patients with stable coronary disease (SCD) and ejection fraction (EF) <45% were studied for systolic function. GIK (glucose 30%, 300 insulin units and KCl 6 g/l) was infused at 1 ml/kg per h over 20 min. Hemodynamic and echocardiographic measurements were recorded at rest (T0), at the end (20 min) of GIK infusion (T + 20), 20 and 40 min after the end of the infusion (T + 40 and T + 60).

Results:

At T + 20, a significant decrease in WMSI (wall motion score index) was observed compared with T0 (2.16±0.14 vs. 2.30±0.16: P<0.05). An increase in EF was reported at T + 40 and T + 60 compared with T0 (44.1±7.8% and 53.3±11.6% vs. 35.6±4.5%, respectively: P<0.01). A decrease in WMSI was observed at T + 40 and T + 60 compared with rest (2.02±0.17 and 1.93±0.11 vs. 2.30±0.16, respectively: P<0.01).

Conclusion:

Our present work suggests that GIK infusion improves systolic function in patients with SCD and ejection fraction <45%. Further studies are needed to determine if short‐term GIK infusion could be useful for therapeutic or diagnostic strategies in these patients.
Building a World Class Region: Regional Strategy in the South East of England
Authors: Musson Steven , Tickell Adam , John Peter
Published: October 2002

The South East of England sits uncomfortably within the English regional project. Public support for regional government is relatively low and political appetite for a debate on its future is limited. We argue that the South East poses a problem for English regionalism. The incorporation of this economic heartland is imperative if the project it is not only to be associated with economic development and regeneration in more deprived areas. However, the South East is fragmented and fraught with tensions that institutions of regional governance cannot easily overcome. In particular this relates to the highly differential economic trajectories of different economic sub-regions and to the institutional separation of the South East from London. The future of regional government in the South East of England and the role that the region plays in the wider English regional project remain highly uncertain.
Modulation of Kv Channel Expression and Function by TCR and Costimulatory Signals during Peripheral CD4+ Lymphocyte Differentiation
Authors: Liu Qing-Hua , Fleischmann Bernd K. , Hondowicz Brian , Maier Curtis C. , Turka Laurence A. , Yui Katsuyuki , Kotlikoff Michael I. , Wells Andrew D. , Freedman Bruce D.
Published: October 2002

Ionic signaling pathways, including voltage-dependent potassium (Kv) channels, are instrumental in antigen-mediated responses of peripheral T cells. However, how Kv channels cooperate with other signaling pathways involved in T cell activation and differentiation is unknown. We report that multiple Kv channels are expressed by naive CD4+ lymphocytes, and that the current amplitude and kinetics are modulated by antigen receptor–mediated stimulation and costimulatory signals. Currents expressed in naive CD4+ lymphocytes are consistent with Kv1.1, Kv1.2, Kv1.3, and Kv1.6. Effector CD4+ cells generated by optimal TCR and costimulation exhibit only Kv1.3 current, but at approximately sixfold higher levels than naive cells. CD4+ lymphocytes anergized through partial stimulation exhibit similar Kv1.1, Kv1.2, and/or Kv1.6 currents, but approximately threefold more Kv1.3 current than naive cells. To determine if Kv channels contribute to the distinct functions of naive, effector, and anergized T cells, we tested their role in immunoregulatory cytokine production. Each Kv channel is required for maximal IL-2 production by naive CD4+ lymphocytes, whereas none appears to play a role in IL-2, IL-4, or IFN-γ production by effector cells. Interestingly, Kv channels in anergized lymphocytes actively suppress IL-4 production, and these functions are consistent with a role in regulating the membrane potential and calcium signaling.
A Point Mutation of Tyr-759 in Interleukin 6 Family Cytokine Receptor Subunit gp130 Causes Autoimmune Arthritis
Authors: Atsumi Toru , Ishihara Katsuhiko , Kamimura Daisuke , Ikushima Hideto , Ohtani Takuya , Hirota Seiichi , Kobayashi Hideyuki , Park Sung-Joo , Saeki Yukihiko , Kitamura Yukihiko , Hirano Toshio
Published: October 2002

We generated a mouse line in which the src homology 2 domain–bearing protein tyrosine phosphatase (SHP)-2 binding site of gp130, tyrosine 759, was mutated to phenylalanine (gp130F759/F759). The gp130F759/F759 mice developed rheumatoid arthritis (RA)-like joint disease. The disease was accompanied by autoantibody production and accumulated memory/activated T cells and myeloid cells. Before the disease onset, the T cells were hyperresponsive and thymic selection and peripheral clonal deletion were impaired. The inhibitory effect of IL-6 on Fas ligand expression during activation-induced cell death (AICD) was augmented in gp130F759/F759 T cells in a manner dependent on the tyrosine residues of gp130 required for signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 activation. Finally, we showed that disease development was dependent on lymphocytes. These results provide evidence that a point mutation of a cytokine receptor has the potential to induce autoimmune disease.
Sodium Periodate Catalyzed Selective Sulfonylation of Aromatics
Authors: Bandgar B P , Kamble V T
Published: October 2002

Sodium periodate catalyzed sulfonylation of aromatics with p-toluenesulfonyl chloride gives the corresponding sulfones in good yield under neutral conditions.
Effective Energy Transfer Process in a Dyad Molecule of Pyrene and C60
Authors: Fujitsuka Mamoru , Luo Hongxia , Murata Yasujiro , Kato Noriyuki , Ito Osamu , Komatsu Koichi
Published: October 2002

Photoexcitation dynamics of a pyrene-C60 dyad molecule has been investigated. From the excitation spectrum and fluorescence lifetime measurements, effective energy transfer processes from the singlet excited pyrene-moiety were confirmed both in polar and nonpolar solvents. The transient absorption suggested that the triplet excited C60 was generated effectively upon excitation of the pyrene-moiety via the singlet energy transfer and the intersystem crossing process.
Oxidation of Anhydrides Over MgO Promoted Cobalt and Vanadium Oxide Catalysts
Authors: Mongkhonsi Tharathon , Umpo Surangkana , Thongsang Pongsakorn
Published: October 2002

Phthalic anhydride and maleic anhydride could be completely oxidised to CO2 and H2O over Co-Mg-O/Al2O3 and V-Mg-O/TiO2 catalysts. Experimental results showed that the cobalt and vanadium oxide catalysts promoted with MgO had superior combustion activity than the unpromoted catalysts.
Hyperhomocysteinemia and the MTHFR C677T mutation in Budd‐Chiari syndrome
Authors: Li Xiao‐Mei , Wei Ying‐Fei , Hao Hong‐Ling , Hao Yu‐Bin , He Li‐Shan , Li Jing‐Dong , Mei Bing , Wang Su‐Yun , Wang Chao , Wang Jun‐Xiang , Zhu Jun‐Zhen , Liang Jin‐Quan
Published: October 2002

Hyperhomocysteinemia (HH) is a factor that predisposes individuals to thrombosis, and the C677T mutation in the 5,10‐methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) is known to give increased plasma homocysteine. However, little is known about their roles in Budd‐Chiari syndrome (BCS). This study evaluated the roles of HH and the MTHFR C677T mutation in patients with BCS. We compared 41 BCS patients with 80 sex‐ and age‐matched healthy controls. The mean plasma homocysteine level was significantly higher in patients with BCS (20.15 ± 5.78 μmol/L) compared with normal controls (15.80 ± 6.58 μmol/L), P < 0.01. HH (>19.5 μmol/L in men and >15.0 μmol/L in women) was detected in 15 (36.59%) patients and in 14 (17.5%) controls (odds ratio [OR], 2.72; 95% confidence internal [CI], 1.17–6.32). The prevalence of the mutated MTHFR 677TT genotype and the 677T allele in normal controls was 10.0% and 31.3%, respectively. The mutant 677T homozygotes and alleles were more frequent in patients with BCS than in controls (22.0% vs. 10.0%, 0.025 < P < 0.05; 45.1% vs. 31.3%, 0.025 < P < 0.05). The relative risk of BCS among the carriers of 677TT was significantly increased (OR, 3.3; 95% CI, 1.1–10.0). The mutant MTHFR heterozygous 677C/T carriers were not significantly increased in patients with BCS compared with controls (46.3% vs. < 2.5%, P > 0.05). The relative risk OR of BCS among carriers of 677C/T was 1.6 (95% CI, 0.7–3.6). This study suggests that both HH and the homozygous C677T mutation in the MTHFR gene are important risk factors of BCS. Am. J. Hematol. 71:11–14, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Induction of fetal hemoglobin synthesis by valproate: Modulation of MAPkinase pathways
Authors: Witt O. , Mönkemeyer S. , Kanbach K. , Pekrun A.
Published: October 2002

Valproate has been found to stimulate fetal hemoglobin (HbF) synthesis in patients with sickle cell disease. In accordance with these clinical observations, we found a moderate induction of HbF synthesis in K562 erythroid cells in vitro. Investigation of the role of the mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways by Western blot analysis and use of specific kinase inhibitors suggests that inhibition of ERK pathway and activation of the p38 pathway may contribute to the HbF‐inducing activity of valproate. Am. J. Hematol. 71:45–46, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
High‐titer acquired factor V inhibitor responsive to corticosteroids and cyclophosphamide in a patient with two malignant tumors
Authors: Bayani Nazanine , Rugina Michel , Haddad‐Vergnes Laurence , Lelong Françoise
Published: October 2002

We report a 79‐year‐old man with two simultaneous malignant tumors (buccal epidermoid carcinoma and prostatic adenocarcinoma) who developed a severe bleeding complication at the site of the buccal tumor as well as a massive cerebral hematoma after a skull trauma. Laboratory findings showed the presence of a high‐titer specific factor V inhibitor. The patient failed to respond to intravenous immunoglobulins, but both clinical and laboratory improvement was obtained after treatment with corticosteroids and cyclophosphamide. Am. J. Hematol. 71:33–36, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A meta‐analysis of coffee drinking, cigarette smoking, and the risk of Parkinson's disease
Authors: Hernán Miguel A. , Takkouche Bahi , Caamaño‐Isorna Francisco , Gestal‐Otero Juan J.
Published: October 2002

We conducted a systematic review to summarize the epidemiological evidence on the association between cigarette smoking, coffee drinking, and the risk of Parkinson's disease. Case–control and cohort studies that reported the relative risk of physician‐confirmed Parkinson's disease by cigarette smoking or coffee drinking status were included. Study‐specific log relative risks were weighted by the inverse of their variances to obtain a pooled relative risk and its 95% confidence interval (CI). Results for smoking were based on 44 case–control and 4 cohort studies, and for coffee 8 case–control and 5 cohort studies. Compared with never smokers, the relative risk of Parkinson's disease was 0.59 (95% CI, 0.54–0.63) for ever smokers, 0.80 (95% CI, 0.69–0.93) for past smokers, and 0.39 (95% CI, 0.32–0.47) for current smokers. The relative risk per 10 additional pack‐years was 0.84 (95% CI, 0.81–0.88) in case–control studies and 0.78 (95% CI, 0.73–0.84) in cohort studies. Compared with non–coffee drinkers, relative risk of Parkinson's disease was 0.69 (95% CI, 0.59–0.80) for coffee drinkers. The relative risk per three additional cups of coffee per day was 0.75 (95% CI, 0.64–0.86) in case–control studies and 0.68 (95% CI, 0.46–1.00) in cohort studies. This meta‐analysis shows that there is strong epidemiological evidence that smokers and coffee drinkers have a lower risk of Parkinson's disease. Further research is required on the biological mechanisms underlying this potentially protective effect.