bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Autoantibody to c‐Mpl (thrombopoietin receptor) in systemic lupus erythematosus: Relationship to thrombocytopenia with megakaryocytic hypoplasia
Authors: Kuwana Masataka , Okazaki Yuka , Kajihara Mikio , Kaburaki Junichi , Miyazaki Hiroshi , Kawakami Yutaka , Ikeda Yasuo 
Published: October 2002

AbstractObjectiveTo examine the prevalence, clinical associations, and pathogenic role of autoantibodies to c‐Mpl, the thrombopoietin (TPO) receptor, in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).MethodsSera from 69 SLE patients, 84 patients with idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP), and 60 healthy individuals were screened for anti–c‐Mpl antibodies by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay using recombinant c‐Mpl as an antigen. Clinical findings, autoantibody profiles, and serum TPO levels were compared between SLE patients with and without anti–c‐Mpl antibodies. A pathogenic role for the anti–c‐Mpl antibody was evaluated by examining its inhibitory effect on TPO‐dependent cell proliferation and megakaryocyte colony formation.ResultsSerum anti–c‐Mpl antibody was detected in 8 SLE patients (11.6%) and 7 ITP patients (8.3%), but in none of the healthy controls. Anti–c‐Mpl antibody was associated with thrombocytopenia (P = 0.0002) and a decrease in bone marrow megakaryocytes (P = 0.02) in SLE patients. Serum TPO levels in thrombocytopenic SLE patients with anti–c‐Mpl antibodies were significantly elevated compared with levels in those without the antibodies (P = 0.007). IgG fractions purified from anti–c‐Mpl antibody–positive sera bound to c‐Mpl expressed on the cell surface and inhibited TPO‐dependent cell proliferation and megakaryocyte colony formation.ConclusionAutoantibody to c‐Mpl is present in a subset of SLE patients with thrombocytopenia and megakaryocytic hypoplasia. It is likely that the impaired thrombopoiesis in these patients is mediated by the anti–c‐Mpl antibody, which functionally blocks an interaction between TPO and c‐Mpl.
Sites of collagenase cleavage and denaturation of type II collagen in aging and osteoarthritic articular cartilage and their relationship to the distribution of matrix metalloproteinase 1 and matrix metalloproteinase 13
Authors: Wu William , Billinghurst R. Clark , Pidoux Isabelle , Antoniou John , Zukor David , Tanzer Michael , Poole A. Robin 
Published: October 2002

AbstractObjectiveTo determine the sites of cleavage and denaturation of type II collagen (CII) by collagenase(s) in healthy and osteoarthritic (OA) human articular cartilage and their relationship to the distribution of matrix metalloproteinase 1 (MMP‐1) and MMP‐13.MethodsSingle (per subject) full‐depth specimens from femoral condylar cartilage were isolated from articulating surfaces at autopsy from 8 subjects without arthritis and during arthroplasty from 10 patients with OA. Fixed frozen sections of cartilage were examined by immunoperoxidase localization, using antibodies to the collagenase‐generated cleavage site in CII, to an intrachain epitope recognized only in denatured CII, and to MMP‐1 and MMP‐13 (proenzyme, activated enzyme, or enzyme/inhibitor complex).ResultsStaining for collagen cleavage, denaturation, and both MMPs was weak to moderate and was frequently observed in pericellular sites in cartilage from younger, nonarthritic subjects. In specimens from older subjects, this staining was often more widespread and of greater intensity. Similar staining was usually, but not always, seen for all antibodies. In OA cartilage, staining was often stronger and more intense than that in normal cartilage from older subjects, and the distribution of staining was often similar for the different antibodies. Pericellular staining in the deep zone was frequently more pronounced in arthritic cartilage and extended to territorial and sometimes interterritorial sites. In very degenerate specimens, staining was distributed throughout most of the cartilage matrix.ConclusionThese observations provide evidence for the presence of limited cleavage and denaturation of CII restricted to mainly pericellular and superficial sites in cartilage from younger, healthy subjects, where MMP‐1 and MMP‐13 are also selectively localized. Collagen degradation is more extensive and often more pronounced in cartilage from older, nonarthritic subjects. Characteristic changes in early OA are similar to those seen with aging in cartilage from older, healthy subjects, with collagen damage and collagenases concentrated closer to the articular surface. There was usually a close correspondence between the cleavage and denaturation of CII and the sites at which these collagenases were detected, suggesting that both MMPs are involved in the physiology and pathology. There was no evidence that the damage to CII is ordinarily initiated in sites other than at and near the articular surface and around chondrocytes.
Single‐nucleotide polymorphisms in tumor necrosis factor receptor genes: Definition of novel haplotypes and racial/ethnic differences
Authors: Bridges S. Louis , Jenq Grace , Moran Molly , Kuffner Tamara , Whitworth William C. , McNicholl Janet 
Published: October 2002

AbstractObjectiveTo characterize allele frequencies of known single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in tumor necrosis factor receptor (TNFR) genes in African Americans with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), healthy African Americans, and healthy Caucasians.MethodsOne TNFRSF1B SNP (196 G/T) that influences susceptibility to familial RA in Caucasians and 3 SNPs in the 5′ flanking region of the TNFRSF1A gene (‐609G/T, ‐580A/G, and ‐383A/C) were genotyped in 108 African Americans with RA, 62 healthy African Americans, and 59 healthy Caucasians.ResultsThere were no differences in TNFRSF1A allele frequencies between African Americans with RA and healthy African Americans. Allele frequencies were strikingly different, however, between healthy African Americans and healthy Caucasians: 0.13 versus 0.42 for ‐609T, 0.49 versus 0 for ‐580G, and 0.14 versus 0 for ‐383C. We identified 4 novel haplotypes defined by the 3 TNFRSF1A SNPs, the distribution of which was markedly different in healthy Caucasians and healthy African Americans (P = 0.000001 by chi‐square test‐. The frequencies of the TNFRSF1B 196 genotypes were similar in African Americans with RA and healthy African Americans but differed between healthy African Americans and healthy Caucasians (P = 0.05).ConclusionAlthough we observed no associations between known TNFR SNPs or haplotypes and RA, significant racial differences were observed at both loci. Comparison of these data with other published frequencies of TNFRSF1A and TNFRSF1B genotypes according to race suggests that the distribution in African American, Caucasian, and Asian populations differs significantly. These striking racial/ethnic differences in TNFR SNP frequencies may influence the likelihood of familial RA, severe disease, or response to TNF inhibitors and may have important evolutionary implications.
Anti–β2‐glycoprotein I antibodies in pediatric systemic lupus erythematosus and antiphospholipid syndrome
Authors: von Scheven Emily , Glidden David V. , Elder Melissa E. 
Published: October 2002

AbstractObjectiveTo determine whether serum β2‐glycoprotein I antibody (anti‐β2GPI) detection improves identification of pediatric subjects at risk for antiphospholipid syndrome (APS).MethodsSerum antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) were identified by anticardiolipin enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), lupus anticoagulant assays, and syphilis screening in children with primary APS, systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), or SLE plus APS. Anti‐β2GPI level and isotype were determined by β2GPI ELISA and correlated with clinical manifestations and other aPL assays.ResultsOne hundred‐ten subjects under 22 years of age and of mixed ethnicity were evaluated. Fifty‐seven had SLE (including 14 with APS), 25 had primary APS, 16 had SLE‐like APS, 6 were healthy children with aPL detected incidentally, 4 had other rheumatic diseases and 2 had other conditions. Anti‐β2GPI were detected in 48% of SLE subjects and did not improve aPL detection over standard tests. Anti‐β2GPI were associated with stroke (P = 0.014), but not with other APS manifestations, and were rarely detected in primary APS. Among subjects with APS manifesting as chronic thrombocytopenia, anti‐β2GPI distinguished subjects with SLE from those with primary APS.ConclusionsWith the exception of stroke, anti‐β2GPI detection does not improve identification of pediatric APS over that of traditional aPL assays. Anti‐β2GPI are rare in pediatric primary APS, but may predict evolution of chronic thrombocytopenia to SLE.
Racial differences in social network experience and perceptions of benefit of arthritis treatments among New York City Medicare beneficiaries with self‐reported hip and knee pain
Authors: Blake Valerie A. , Allegrante John P. , Robbins Laura , Mancuso Carol A. , Peterson Margaret G. E. , Esdaile John M. , Paget Stephen A. , Charlson Mary E. 
Published: October 2002

AbstractObjectiveTo determine whether social network experience and perceptions of benefit of arthritis treatments influence the decision to seek diagnosis and treatment.MethodsA population‐based telephone survey of 515 black and 455 white Medicare beneficiaries was conducted. Validated questionnaires adapted for use in a telephone interview were used to identify people with self‐reported symptoms of hip or knee pain. Treatment history for arthritis‐related pain and perceptions of benefit of treatment were also assessed.ResultsForty‐two percent of blacks and 31% of whites reported hip or knee pain. Forty‐two percent of blacks and 65% of whites reported knowing someone who had surgery for hip or knee pain (P < 0.0001). Blacks were less likely than whites to report that surgery had helped someone they knew with hip or knee pain (not significant).ConclusionBlacks know fewer people who have had surgical treatment of hip and knee pain than whites and appear to be less likely to perceive that such treatment is beneficial.
Secular changes in the quality of published randomized clinical trials in rheumatology
Authors: Hill Catherine L. , LaValley Michael P. , Felson David T. 
Published: October 2002

AbstractObjectiveTo assess the quality of published randomized clinical trials (RCTs) in rheumatology and to determine whether there has been improvement in quality between 2 time periods, 1987–1988 and 1997–1998.MethodsUsing MEDLINE and a hand search of selected rheumatology journals, we identified RCTs of adult rheumatic diseases published in English in 1987–1988 or 1997–1998. We examined trial quality with an expanded version of the Jadad scale, which assesses the adequacy of reported random sequence generation, allocation concealment, blinding, and analysis. All trials were read by 1 reviewer, with prior standardization using a random sample read by 2 reviewers. We also evaluated “high”‐ versus “low”‐impact journals based on citation index.ResultsTwo hundred forty RCTs (1987–1988 119 RCTs, 1997–1998 121 RCTs) were assessed. Results showed improvement in the quality of the trials, but the rates of reported random sequence generation, allocation concealment, power, and intent‐to‐treat analyses were persistently low. Low rates of reports of random sequence generation, allocation concealment, and intent‐to‐treat analyses were present even in the high‐impact journals.ConclusionThere has been improvement in the quality of reporting of RCTs in rheumatology between 1987–1988 and 1997–1998. However, methodologic problems such as lack of allocation concealment, inadequate random sequence generation, lack of reporting of power, and lack of intent‐to‐treat analyses remain common. Many of these problems are established sources of bias in RCTs and are easily rectifiable.
Facilitating community information seeking using the Internet: Findings from three public library–community network systems
Authors: Pettigrew Karen E. , Durrance Joan C. , Unruh Kenton T. 
Published: October 2002

AbstractWe report findings from a recent study of how public libraries are using on‐line community networks to facilitate the public's information seeking and use in everyday situations. These networks have been lauded for their potential to strengthen physical communities through increasing information flow about local services and events, and through facilitating civic interaction. However, little is known about how the public uses such digital services and what barriers they encounter. This article presents findings from a 2‐year study that comprised a national survey with public library staff, followed by extensive case studies in three states. At each site, data were collected using on‐line surveys, field observation, in‐depth interviews, and focus groups with Internet users, human service providers, and library staff. The on‐line surveys and the follow‐up interviews with respondents were based on sense‐making theory. In our article we discuss: (1) how the public is using networked community information systems and the Internet for daily problem solving, (2) the types of barriers users encounter, and (3) the benefits for individuals and physical communities from public library–community networking initiatives and the emergence of “information communities.”
A cognitive‐emotional account of the shape of the probability weighting function
Authors: Brandstätter Eduard , Kühberger Anton , Schneider Friedrich 
Published: October 2002

AbstractResearch has shown a tendency of decision makers to overweight small probabilities and to underweight moderate and large probabilities. In standard treatments this is graphically modeled by an inverse S‐shaped probability weighting function. We suggest that emotions play a significant role in the shaping of the probability weighting function. In particular, the weighting function is proposed to be some function of objective probability, expected elation, and expected disappointment. The overweighting of small probabilities results from the anticipated elation after having won, given that winning was very unlikely. The underweighting of large probabilities results from anticipated disappointment after having failed to win, given that winning was very likely. Hence, probability is assumed to influence utility. Three experiments investigate these hypotheses. Experiments 1 and 2 show that a convex function relates probability to surprise. Experiment 3 elicits choice data and further supports the proposed hypotheses. The model adds to the understanding of the cognitive and emotional processes underlying the shape of the probability weighting function. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Common structural features of nucleic acid polymerases
Authors: Cramer P. 
Published: October 2002

AbstractStructures of multisubunit RNA polymerases strongly differ from the many known structures of single subunit DNA and RNA polymerases. However, in functional complexes of these diverse enzymes, nucleic acids take a similar course through the active center. This finding allows superposition of diverse polymerases and reveals features that are functionally equivalent. The entering DNA duplex is bent by almost 90° with respect to the exiting template–product duplex. At the point of bending, a dramatic twist between subsequent DNA template bases aligns the “coding“ base with the binding site for the incoming nucleoside triphosphate (NTP). The NTP enters through an opening that is found in all polymerases, and, in most cases, binds between an α‐helix and two catalytic metal ions. Subsequent phosphodiester bond formation adds a new base pair to the exiting template–product duplex, which is always bound from the minor groove side. All polymerases may undergo “induced fit” upon nucleic acid binding, but the underlying conformational changes differ. BioEssays 24:724–729, 2002. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Selectivity in heavy metal‐ binding to peptides and proteins
Authors: DeSilva Tara M. , Veglia Gianluigi , Porcelli Fernando , Prantner Andrew M. , Opella Stanley J. 
Published: October 2002

AbstractThe metal‐binding affinities and three‐dimensional structures of three synthetic 18‐residue peptides with sequences derived from that of the highly conserved metal‐binding motif MXCXXC found in many heavy metal‐binding proteins were determined. A change in register of the cysteines and alanines of the sequence from the periplasmic mercury‐binding protein, MerP, i.e., CAAC, CACA, and CCAA, affects the specificity of metal binding, in particular, the peptide with vicinal cysteines binds only mercury. The three‐dimensional structures of the mercury‐bound forms of the three peptides determined in solution by NMR spectroscopy peptides differ considerably, even though they are all linear bicoordinate complexes. The three‐dimensional structure of the peptide with CAAC bound to Cd(II) demonstrates that the metal‐binding loop is malleable enough to accommodate modes of coordination other than linear bicoordinate. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biopolymers 64: 189–197, 2002
Differential rates of gene expression monitored by green fluorescent protein
Authors: Lu Canghai , Albano C. Renee , Bentley William E. , Rao Govind 
Published: October 2002

AbstractThe use of green fluorescent protein (GFP) as a reporter gene has made a broad impact in several areas, especially in studies of protein trafficking, localization, and expression analysis. GFP's many advantages are that it is small, autocatalytic, and does not require fixation, cell disruption, or the addition of cofactors or substrates. Two characteristics of GFP, extreme stability and chromophore cyclization lag time, pose a hindrance to the application of GFP as a real‐time gene expression reporter in bioprocess applications. In this report, we present analytical methods that overcome these problems and enable the temporal visualization of discrete gene regulatory events. The approach we present measures the rate of change in GFP fluorescence, which in turn reflects the rate of gene expression. We conducted fermentation and microplate experiments using a protein synthesis inhibitor to illustrate the feasibility of this system. Additional experiments using the classic gene regulation of the araBAD operon show the utility of GFP as a near real‐time indicator of gene regulation. With repetitive induction and repression of the arabinose promoter, the differential rate of GFP fluorescence emission shows corresponding cyclical changes during the culture. © 2002 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Biotechnol Bioeng 79: 429–437, 2002.
Successful management of a resistant renal artery stenosis in a child using a 4 mm cutting balloon catheter
Authors: Haas Nikolaus A. , Ocker Volker , Knirsch Walter , Holder Martin , Lochbuehler Helmut , Lewin Martin A.G. , Uhlemann Frank 
Published: October 2002

AbstractPercutaneous transluminal renal angioplasty (PTRA) is a well‐established method to treat renal artery stenosis (RAS) in children and adults. However, a significant number of stenoses might not be treated by interventional techniques due to the inability to dilate the RAS. Conventional balloon angioplasty with a high‐pressure coronary angioplasty balloon at 20 atm was unable to dilate a significant RAS in a 12‐year‐old child with severe renovascular hypertension (RR 195/125 mm Hg). After using a 4 mm cutting balloon, we achieved wide patency of the renal artery and an instant normalization of blood pressure without further need of antihypertensive therapy. PTRA using the cutting balloon technique may offer an additional therapeutic option for selected patients in whom conventional balloon angioplasty was not able to dilate RAS. Cathet Cardiovasc Intervent 2002;56:227–231. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Enantioselective photoreaction of achiral tropolone ether in inclusion crystals with optically active host compounds
Authors: Tanaka Koichi , Nagahiro Ryoji , Urbanczyk‐Lipkowska Zofia 
Published: October 2002

AbstractAchiral 4‐isopropyltropolone methyl ether (3) included in an optically active host compound (−)‐1 yielded optically active photocyclization products (−)‐5 and (−)‐6 in 96 and 90% ee, respectively, upon photoirradiation in the solid state. Chirality 14:568–572, 2002. © 2002 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
A problem‐solving approach to stress reduction among younger women with breast carcinoma
Authors: Allen Susan M. , Shah Ann C. , Nezu Arthur M. , Nezu Christine Maguth , Ciambrone Desirée , Hogan Joseph , Mor Vincent 
Published: October 2002

AbstractBACKGROUNDPrevious research indicates that younger women (i.e., ≤ 50) with breast carcinoma experience greater emotional distress than older women (i.e., > 50) and that coping style is significantly related to the psychosocial adjustment of women with this disease. The purpose of this study was to evaluate through a randomized controlled trial the effectiveness of a problem‐solving training intervention designed to empower women with breast carcinoma to cope with a range of difficulties when diagnosed in mid‐life.METHODSThe study population consisted of women aged 50 years or younger who had no prior history of breast carcinoma, were diagnosed with Stage I‐IIIA tumors, and for whom a first course of chemotherapy had been initiated recently. The intervention consisted of two in‐person and four telephone sessions with an oncology nurse who provided problem‐solving skills training and informational materials to the women over a 12‐week period. All subjects were assessed for physical and psychosocial adjustment through telephone and mailed surveys at baseline, at 4 –months, and at 8 months.RESULTSOf 183 eligible women, 164 participated (a 90% participation rate), 149 of whom completed the study (a 91% completion rate). The subjects had significantly lower unmet needs and better mental health at the 4‐month assessment. The intervention significantly decreased the number and severity of difficulties experienced by women with average or good problem‐solving skills at 8 months, but was not effective in alleviating or resolving the problems encountered by women with poor problem‐solving skills, relative to the control group.CONCLUSIONSWe conclude that this problem‐solving therapy‐based home care training intervention is an effective method of helping the majority of women with breast carcinoma to reduce the stresses associated with the diagnosis and treatment of cancer in mid‐life. Cancer 2002;94:3089–100. © 2002 American Cancer Society.DOI 10.1002/cncr.10586