bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Activated protein C mediates a healing phenotype in cultured tenocytes
Authors: Xue Meilang , Smith Margaret M. , Little Christopher B. , Sambrook Philip , March Lyn , Jackson Christopher J.
Published: May 2008

Tendon injuries cause considerable morbidity in the general adult population. The tenocytes within the tendon have the full capacity to heal the tendon intrinsically. Activated protein C (APC) plays an important role in coagulation and inflammation and more recently has been shown to promote cutaneous wound healing. In this study we examined whether APC can induce a wound healing phenotype in tenocytes. Sheep tenocytes were treated with APC, endothelial protein C receptor (EPCR) blocking antibody (RCR252) and/or EPCR small interfering (si)RNA. Cell proliferation and migration were measured by crystal violet assay and a scratch wounding assay, respectively. The expression of EPCR, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‐2, type I collagen and MAP kinase activity were detected by real time PCR, zymography, immunofluorescence, immunohistochemistry and Western blotting. APC stimulated proliferation, MMP‐2 activity and type I collagen deposition in a dose‐dependent manner and promoted migration of cultured tenocytes. APC dose‐dependently stimulated phosphorylated (P)‐ERK2 and inhibited P‐p38. Interestingly, tenocytes expressed EPCR protein, which was up‐regulated by APC. When tenocytes were pre‐treated with RCR252 or EPCR siRNA the effect of APC on proliferation, MMP‐2 and type 1 collagen synthesis and MAP kinases was blocked. APC promotes the growth, MMP‐2 activity, type I collagen deposition and migration of tenocytes. Furthermore, EPCR is expressed by tenocytes and mediates the actions of APC, at least partly by signalling through selective MAP kinases. These data implicate APC as a potential healing agent for injured tendons.
Offspring or ornaments? Is carotenoid‐based ornamentation in female Arctic charr,Salvelinus alpinus(L.), condition‐dependent and traded off against offspring?
Authors: Nordeide J. T. , Mohus Å. , Nicolaisen O. , Volden R. , Egeland E. S.
Published: May 2008

Abstract – In several carotenoids‐based ornamented species, females invest carotenoids also into their gametes to increase the quality of the rapidly growing zygote. The extra carotenoids demand may cause females to trade‐off valuable carotenoids between ornament and eggs. This may be one reason why females are less showy ornamented than males. In our study‐population of Arctic charr, individuals of both sexes vary in degree of conspicuousness of their red abdomen and fins. None of the two carotenoids‐based ornaments was significantly associated with either (i) the amount of carotenoids in the egg, although being negative and close to significance, or (ii) potential condition‐dependent parameters like relative density of leucocytes, condition‐factor and parasitism. This study does not support the ‘direct selection hypothesis’ to explain the existence of female ornaments, and gives equivocal support for the hypothesis of asymmetrical investment of carotenoids into gametes to explain the less showy ornaments in females when compared with males.
Interdisciplinary surveillance of intraventricular haemorrhage associated conditions in infants <1000 g
Authors: Obladen Michael , Metze Boris , Henrich Wolfgang , Aktas Ayse , Czernik Christoph , Schulz‐Baldes Annette
Published: May 2008

Aim: Intraventricular haemorrhage (IVH) causes some of the most adverse outcomes in infants with birthweight <1000 g. Incomplete antenatal steroids, acidosis, inflammation, postnatal transfer, delayed surfactant administration, hypothermia, hypotension, hypocapnia, persistent ductus arteriosus and pneumothorax are all associated with IVH. We hypothesized that prospective surveillance of these IVH‐associated conditions decreases their frequency and thus the frequency of IVH.

Methods: Cranial ultrasound was performed on days 1, 3, 7, 30 after birth and at discharge, and was assessed according to Papile. The incidence of IVH and IVH‐associated conditions was monitored prospectively in all infants <1000 g born in our perinatal centre in 2005/2006, and obstetricians and neonatologists held monthly interdisciplinary review conferences to discuss the preventability of IVH‐associated conditions (IVH surveillance). These data were compared to existing prospective data gathered during routine monitoring in 2004.

Results: IVH (all grades) occurred in 29/86 extremely low birthweight (ELBW) infants during routine monitoring and in 12/89 ELBW infants during IVH surveillance (p = 0.007). IVH grades 3–4 dropped from 20% to 3.4% (p = 0.0006). There were significant differences in completeness of antenatal steroids (54% vs. 67%, p = 0.04) and timeliness in initial surfactant substitution (45% vs. 71%, p = 0.01). Most other IVH‐associated conditions were reduced during IVH surveillance without reaching significance.

Conclusions: IVH is not always an inevitable disaster. Obstetricians and neonatologists can reduce its incidence by joint prospective surveillance of IVH‐associated conditions.
Television viewing associates with delayed language development
Authors: Chonchaiya Weerasak , Pruksananonda Chandhita
Published: May 2008

Aim: To identify impact of television viewing on language development.

Methods: The case‐control study included 56 new patients with language delay and 110 normal children, aged 15–48 months. Language delay was diagnosed by reviewing language milestones and Denver‐II. Television viewing variables and child/parental characteristics between both groups were interviewed. The data were analyzed by ANOVA and chi‐square test. Adjusted odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals were calculated from multivariate logistic regression model.

Results: Forty‐six boys and 10 girls; mean [±SD] age, 2.11 ± 0.47 years of the case group and 59 boys and 51 girls; mean [±SD] age, 2.23 ± 0.80 years of the control group were enrolled. Children who had language delay usually started watching television earlier at age 7.22 ± 5.52 months vs. 11.92 ± 5.86 months, p‐value < 0.001 and also spent more time watching television than normal children (3.05 ± 1.90 h/day vs. 1.85 ± 1.18 h/day; p‐value < 0.001). Children who started watching television at <12 months of age and watched television >2 h/day were approximately six times more likely to have language delays.

Conclusions: There is a relationship between early onset and high frequency of TV viewing and language delay.
INFLUENCE OF FEMORAL HEAD AND NECK CONFORMATION ON HIP DYSPLASIA IN THE GERMAN SHEPHERD DOG
Authors: WIGGER ANTJE , TELLHELM BERND , KRAMER MARTIN , RUDORF HEIKE
Published: May 2008

We investigated the prevalence of an anatomic variant of the proximal femur, termed the broomstick‐like femoral head and neck formation, and its influence on the Féderation Cynologique Internationale (FCI) hip dysplasia score in 294 German Shepherd dogs. One‐hundred and eighty (61%) of the 294 dogs in our study had this anatomic variant. The calculated area of the femoral heads in dogs with a broomstick‐like conformation was 4.5±0.6 cm2on the hip‐extended view. In dogs with a normal femoral head, the calculated area of the femoral head was significantly larger at 4.8±0.6 cm2(P<0.05). In the frog‐leg view, there was no significant difference in femoral head area between dogs with the broomstick‐like conformation and normal dogs. There was no difference in the antetorsion angle between dogs with broomstick‐like conformation and normal dogs. There was also no difference in the distraction ratio between the two phenotypes. The official FCI hip score was similar in dogs with and without the broomstick‐like conformation. The average heritability of the broomstick‐like conformation was 0.3±0.1, suggesting heritable influence. We conclude that the broomstick‐like conformation is a common finding in the German shepherd dog and has genetic base. The broomstick‐like conformation does not appear to be associated with the presence of canine hip dysplasia and it can therefore be assumed to be a normal anatomic variant.
TIMING OF LEFT HEART BASE DESCENT IN DOGS WITH DILATED CARDIOMYOPATHY AND NORMAL DOGS
Authors: SIMPSON KERRY E. , DEVINE BRYAN C. , WOOLLEY RICHARD , CORCORAN BRENDAN M. , FRENCH ANNE T.
Published: May 2008

The identification and assessment of myocardial failure in canine idiopathic dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is achieved using a variety of two‐dimensional and Doppler echocardiographic techniques. More recently, the availability of tissue Doppler imaging (TDI) has raised the potential for development of new ways of more accurately identifying a disease phenotype. Nevertheless, TDI has not been universally adapted to veterinary clinical cardiology primarily because of the lack of information on its utility in diagnosis. We assessed the application of timing of left heart base descent using TDI in the identification of differences between DCM and normal dogs. The times from the onset of the QRS complex on a simultaneously recorded electrocardiograph to the onset (Q–S′), peak (Q–peak S′), and end (Q–end S′) of the systolic velocity peak were measured in the interventricular septum (IVS) and the left ventricular free wall. The duration of S′ was also calculated. The Q–S′ (FW), Q–end S′ (FW), and duration S′ (FW) were correlated with ejection fraction in the diseased group (P<0.05). In addition, Q–S′, Q–peak S′, Q–end S′, and the peak S′ velocity were prolonged in the diseased dogs at both the free wall and in the IVS (P<0.01). The duration of S′ was unaffected by disease status. These findings provide insight into the electromechanical uncoupling that occurs in canine DCM and identifies new TDI parameters that can be added to the range of Doppler and echocardiographic parameters used for detecting myocardial failure in the dog.
GASTROINTESTINAL ULTRASONOGRAPHY IN NORMAL ADULT PONIES
Authors: EPSTEIN KIRA , SHORT DIANA , PARENTE ERIC , REEF VIRGINIA , SOUTHWOOD LOUISE
Published: May 2008

The objective of this study was to determine the characteristics based on ultrasonographic examination of the stomach, duodenum, jejunum, cecum, and peritoneal fluid in normal adult ponies. Abdominal ultrasonographic examination was performed in nine unsedated standing ponies. The duodenum was examined at three sites and the jejunum in 12 regions. Wall thickness, contractility, distention, and luminal contents were recorded. Stomach wall thickness and location, cecal wall thickness, and peritoneal fluid location and character were recorded. Statistical analysis was performed. Wall thicknesses (in cm) were 0.431±0.069 for the stomach, 0.188±0.033 for the duodenum (at all sites), 0.195±0.031 for the jejunum (at all regions), and 0.179±0.031 for the cecum. Duodenal contractions per minute were 3.78±1.10. The stomach spanned 5.14±0.9 intercostal spaces, with the 8th intercostal space being the most cranial and the 15th intercostal space being the most caudal space through which the stomach was identified. It was possible to identify the jejunum in all ponies dorsal to the left dorsal colon and from the ventral abdominal wall. Peritoneal fluid was identified in six ponies. Peritoneal fluid was usually seen transiently and most commonly in the ven]tral aspect of the abdominal cavity or around the duodenum. Overall, the ponies' abdominal ultrasonographic examinations revealed wall thicknesses that were less than the published normal ranges for horses. It appears that ponies may have increased duodenal contractility than horses and that the conformation of ponies may change the locations for imaging the stomach.
ULTRASONOGRAPHIC EVALUATION OF THE OMASUM IN COWS AND BUFFALOES
Authors: MOHINDROO JITENDER , KUMAR ASHWANI , SANGWAN VANDANA , UDEHIYA RAHUL , SINGH SIMRAT SAGAR
Published: May 2008

The study was conducted to establish the ultrasonographic features of the healthy and impacted omasum in cows and buffaloes. Scanning was done using a 3.5 MHz microconvex transducer. In healthy buffaloes, the omasum could be scanned at the eighth to ninth intercostal space as a round or oval structure having thick echogenic wall with echogenic leaves. Gradual slow movements of omasal leaves could also be seen in real‐time B‐mode. The omasum appeared to be very clear, large, and close to the transducer at the start of the omasal contraction, and as the contraction progressed the omasum retracted away from the transducer and became very small. In healthy cows the omasum was seen as a crescent‐shaped structure with an echogenic wall. The contents of the omasum or omasal leaves could not be visualized. Omasal contractility was not as prominent as in buffaloes. In buffaloes, the impacted omasum appeared amotile, the omasal leaves were not visible, and the omasum as a whole gave a prominent distal acoustic shadow. In cows, the impaction could be diagnosed based on amotile omasum covering a large area on the right side. Ultrasonography was found to be helpful in subjective assessment of omasal impaction but could not aid in diagnosing the severity of impaction.
Urogenital Anomalies in Autosomal Aberrations
Authors: MORIYAMA Masatoshi , TERASHIMA Kazumitsu , FUKUSHIMA Yoshimitsu , KUROKI Yoshikazu
Published: May 2008

We surveyed urogenital anomalies in 119 patients with autosomal aberrations except Down syndrome. Fifty‐three patients had urogenital anomalies. Horse‐shoe kidney occurred in a high frequency in 18 trisomy patients.

Urogenital survey should be recommended to all patients with autosomal anomalies.
Utility of the Randomization Test and Importance of Nonstatis‐tical Inference in Experimental Teratology
Authors: TACHIBANA Toshiaki
Published: May 2008

The implausibility of random sampling assumption in experimental teratology is pointed out. It is emphasized that nonstatistical inference remains a standard scientific approach, in spite of widespread use of many statistical tests. The randomization test can be introduced to experimental teratologjsts as an alternative to conventional statistical procedures for nonrandom sampling data. A program list for the randomization test written in BASIC for microcompter is given.
Clinical Analysis of the Cleft Patterns of Lip and Palate
Authors: NATSUME Nagato , SUZUKI Toshio , KAWAI Tsuyoshi
Published: May 2008

The patterns in the cleft lip and palate were classified in great detail, and the point of center of the clefts in this disease was speculated. The purpose of the present study was to establish the basic data for classifications of epidemiological surveys in the future. The subjects were 377 patients with cleft lips and palates who visited the Second Department of Oro‐Maxillo‐Facial Surgery, Aichi‐Gakuin University Hospital.

The models of cleft lip and palate divided into 17 segments prepared for an analysis of cleft patterns. And as consequence, the following results were obtained.
Comparison of Fatigue Resistant Properties of Gastrocnemius and Soleus Muscles between Muscular Dystrophic Mice and Other Strains of Mice
Authors: TOTSUKA Tsuyoshi , WATANABE Kimi , URAMOTO Isao , KIYONO Sigehiro
Published: May 2008

ABSTRACT: Muscular potentials were recorded from medial gastrocnemius (MG) and soleus muscles (SOL) of dystrophic and normal mice of the strain C57BL/6J‐dy, dwarf and normal mice of the strain DW/J, and brachymorphic mice of the strain C57BL/6J‐Zwi. The mice were anesthetized with urethane and the sciatic nerve was stimulated at 0.5 and 5 Hz with square pulses. When the frequency of stimulation was raised from 0.5 to 5 Hz and maintained at the latter frequency for 10 min, muscular potentials of dystrophic MG decreased slightly, whereas the other MGs showed a rapid and remarkable reduction in amplitudes. In addition, muscular potentials of SOL of all mice were slightly potentiated. Thus, changing patterns of muscular potentials of dystrophic MG were shifted toward those characteristic of SOLs.
Sister Chromatid Exchanges, Chromosome Aberration and Lymphocyte Proliferative Kinetics in Non‐treated and MNNG‐treated Lymphocytes from Patients with Tuberous Sclerosis
Authors: IESHIMA Atsushi , OHNO Kousaku , TAKESHITA Kenzo
Published: May 2008

ABSTRACT  Cells from tuberous sclerosis (TS) patients have been reported to show hypersensitivity to X‐rays or radiomimetic chemicals, N‐methyl‐N′‐nitro‐N‐nitrosoguanidine (MNNG). We investigated the frequencies of chromosome aberrations and sister chromatid exchanges (SCE), and cell cycle kinetics in MNNG‐treated lymphocytes from 7 patients with TS and 7 controls. There were no significant differences between the two groups in chromosome aberrations, SCE frequency or cell cycle kinetics. Our results did not support the hypersensitivity to MNNG.
The Effects of M‐protein Fraction of Hemolytic Streptococci on Embryonic Development in the Rat
Authors: MIYATA Koichiro , ONO Seigo , NINOMIYA Makoto , JITOSHO Tamotsu , TACHIKURA Junko , TERAWAKI Tamotsu
Published: May 2008

ABSTRACT  Wistar rats were administered M‐protein fraction (MP) of group A type 12 hemolytic streptococci or rabbit anti‐MP serum (AMPS) on day 9 of gestation. The incidence of malformations was 11.8% when 9 mg/kg of MP was administered and 12.0% when 9 ml/kg of AMPS was injected. The main malformations observed in both groups were ventricular septal defect, microphthalmia, anophthalmia, and hydrocephaly. Light and electron microscopic studies revealed no myocarditis nor endocarditis in either the maternal or fetal heart. Fluorescent antibody technique demonstrated no localization of anti‐MP antibodies on the maternal heart. The results suggest that MP and AMPS are slightly teratogenic in the rat, and that the teratogenesis is not caused by an autoimmune mechanism.
Fetal Inclusion: Report of Two Cases and Review of the Literature and Diagonostic Criteria
Authors: IWASAKI Keisuke , MATSUO Takeshi , MINE Yutaka , IKEDA Takayoshi , YOSHIMOTO Masaaki , SHIRAI Kiyoo
Published: May 2008

ABSTRACT  Two cases of fetal inclusion were presented and 27 cases ever reported in Japan were reviewed. The first case presented had placental component and highly differentiated visceral organs in addition to the vertebral column and skin covering the included mass. The second case also had vertebral column and skin but the organoid pattern was not so clear as seen in the first case. It was most important to differentiate included fetus from teratoma in this second case and in some cases reviewed here, in which an orderly arranged visceral organ was not noted. Thus, diagnostic criteria described by Ohkawa et al was revaluated on the basis of embryological consideration and then it was concluded that included fetus could be diagnosed only by the presence of vertebral column and skin covering the included mass. Finally, it is proposed that fetal inclusion may be regarded as an acardiac structure embodied in the autosite.
High Sensitivity of Fertilized Eggs to Radiation and Chemicals in Mice: Comparison with that of Germ Cells and Embryos at Organogenesis*
Authors: NOMURA Taisei
Published: May 2008

ABSTRACT  Sensitivity of fertilized mouse eggs to X‐rays and chemicals was compared with that of parental germ cells and embryos at organogenesis. When X‐rays were given to pregnant ICR mice at about 6 hr after fertilization (pronucleus stage), there is a dramatic increase of dead embryos with X‐ray dose. A half of fertilized eggs were killed by 50 R of X‐rays, while there is no increase of dead embryos and fetuses up to 150 R when pregnant mice were treated on Day 9.5. Striking is high sensitivity of fertilized eggs to synthetic surfactants, alcohol sulfate (AS) and linear alkylbenzene sulfonate (LAS). When 0.1 ml of AS was painted on the back of pregnant mice from Day 0 to Day 2, significant numbers of deformed (dead or dying) embryos were observed. The incidence of deformed embryos increased with doses of AS. Similar results were observed with LAS, and commercially obtained kitchen detergents and shampoo.

When fertilized eggs were exposed to X‐rays and chemicals at pronucleus stage (Day 0), however, tumors and anomalies were induced at very low rate if at all, while embryos at organogenesis and growing fetuses showed high susceptibility to X‐ray and chemically induced anomalies and chemically induced tumors, respectively.

Parental exposure to X‐rays induced significant yields of dominant lethals, anomalies and tumors in the offspring. However, the incidences of lethals and anomalies were much lower than those induced by treatment of embryos at organogenesis with equivalent doses of X‐rays.
Delay in Embryonic Development, Uterine Epithelial Changes and Implantation due to Maternal Treatment during Preimplantation Period*
Authors: YAMAMURA Hideki , INAMOTO Masahiro , FUKUI Kayoko
Published: May 2008

ABSTRACT  The hormonal requirements for ovum implantation vary among species; at least in the mouse and rat, progesterone and estrogen, of which production and secretion are controlled along the hypothalamo‐pituitary‐ovarian axis, are indispensable for the initiation of an implantation. In fact, implantation of the blastocyst in these species is delayed or prevented by not only ovariectomy, but also by: hypophysectomy, lesion of the median eminence or a treatment of the maternal organism with an agent that interferes with this endocrine control system.

The preimplantation developmental events such as cleavage, blastocyst formation and shedding of the zona pellucida and gestational changes of the uterine luminal epithelium are delayed under a few conditions causing a delayed implantation. Experimental data suggesting that uterine changes leading to the formation of a ‘receptive’ endometrium are hormone‐dependent are accumulating. Thus, the observed delay in changes in the uterine epithelium may be attributed to the alteration of the endocrine control. In contrast, it is difficult to determine how the delay in embryonic development occurs. Among the conceivable explanations are: the direct effect on embryos (ova) of implantation‐delaying factors, a mechanism synchronizing embryonic development with the uterine change or disturbance of possible hormonal control over the embryonic development.
Past and Present of International Collaboration on Birth Defects Monitoring Systems
Authors: ASHIZAWA Masami
Published: May 2008

ABSTRACT  Since the thalidomide episode, a number of monitoring systems for birth defects have been developed in Europe and America. The International Clearinghouse for Birth Defects Monitoring Systems founded in 1974 plays a key role as the sole world‐wide international information exchanging and collaborating centre.

EUROCAT (EEC Concerted Action: Registration of Congenital Abnormalities and Multiple Births) established in 1979 is taking its action engulfing now 17 cities in member countries.

The author states an introductory review on the work of the two international organizations with special reference to Japanese situation around the birth defects monitoring systems.
Total Reconstruction of the Auricle in Unilateral Microtia*
Authors: OGINO Yoichi
Published: May 2008

ABSTRACT  In the 10 years from 1973 to 1982, 537 microtia patients visited to our Department. the operation is usually started around the age of ten years.

We have used to reconstruct the auricle consists of two stages.

To transplant the cartilage framework, the subcutaneous pocket is made from the incision line for the switching of the auricular remnants.

The thickness of the skin layer in this pocket was selected to correspond to a depth immediately below the subdermal plexus.

The skin of the auricular area is fitted closely to the transplanted cartilage framework by several mattress sutures tied over gauze.

After transplanting the framework, it is of paramount importance for achieving a well‐shaped prominence for the helix and anthelix to ensure that no excessive stress is brought to bear from the outside of the article. For this purpose, we used a thick Reston Sponge (3M Co., Ltd.) with a hole provided in the middle and stuck in onto the auricle.

About six months after the first stage operation, the transplanted framework is raised from the side of the head with its overlying skin, in one stage. The skin flaps A and B are prepared at the upper and lower parts of the root of the auricle. These two flaps are transferred along the auriculocephalic sulcus toward the posteromedical auricular surface and sutured with 4‐0 nylon mattress sutures.

The raw area left event after this, a full thickness skin graft taken from the abdominal region is transplanted.
Surgical Procedure for the Cleft Hand: Especially in Relation to Restoration of Instinsic Muscle Function of the Shifted Index Finger*
Authors: MIURA Takayuki , NAKAMURA Rhyogo , SUZUKI Masataka , KANIE Junichi
Published: May 2008

ABSTRACT  We have thirty‐eight patients of cleft hand, and they were divided into three groups from the surgical point. Four patients (seven hands) has only one digit on the radial side of the cleft. In these patients there was little indication for the surgical improvement. The thumb and index finger are completely webbed in six patients (seven hands), and reconstruction to permint thumb function is essential above all in these. In most patients of cleft hand (thirty‐one out of thirty‐eight) thumb function is preserved, but abduction of the thumb was more or less limited. Surgical procedure for these patients are discussed.

There are three important point in surgical reconstruction of the celft hand; First is a skin incision to restore thumb abduction; Second is a realignment of the second metacarpal (index ray); and Third is a restoration of intrinsic function. Regarding the first and second point we reported previously (Miura and Komada, 1979). Now, we would like to emphasis that intrinsic function act as a key to get satisfactory result in surgical procedure for the cleft hand. We could use the extrinsic extensor or flexor muscles of the missing middle finger as a proper force for restoration of intrinsic function. We were pleased to use the extrinsic extensor that is found in same incision for the translocation of the index ray. The extrinsic flexor in extrinsic extensor was used. The extrinsic extensor of the middle finger was abscent in one patient.
Prevalence of Inguinal Hernia and its Spontaneous Cure in Japanese Children
Authors: KAJIMOTO Teruho
Published: May 2008

Abstract By way of a questionnaire concerning 155,620 elementary and junior high school pupils (aged 6‐14), we investigated for the first time in Japan the prevalence rate of inguinal hernia in children and its spontaneous cure.

Of the 76,425 male and 79,195 female children surveyed, inguinal hernia was found in 6,523 (8.53%) boys and 2,975 (3.75%) girls. In total, the prevalence rate was 6.10% with a male/female ratio of 7:3.

Of the 6,523 boys who had or had had inguinal hernia, 3,425 had undergone surgery. Of the remaining 3,098 unoperated male patients, 1,160 was cured with a hernia band and 1,140 showed spontaneous cure. The rate of cure without surgery in all the male patients was 35.26%.

In girls, 1,198 of the 2,975 subjects having inguinal hernia at the time of the survey or in the past had undergone surgery. Of the remaining 1,777 unoperated patients, 369 recovered with a hernia band and 677 showed spontaneous cure. Thus, 35.16% of all the female patients were cured of the condition without surgery.
Behavioral Effects of Hydroxyurea Exposure during Organogenetic Period of the Sprague‐Dawley Rats
Authors: ASANO Yuzo , ARIYUKI Fumio , HIGAKI Koh
Published: May 2008

Abstract As an attempt to establish the methodology of behavioral teratology, this study was carried out to investigate whether the effects of HU would be different between Wistar and Sprague‐Dawley (SD) rats. Hydroxyurea (HU) was intraperitoneally injected to pregnant SD rats at does of 50 or 100 mg/kg/day during the organogenetic period (days 9 to 12 of gestation). Male offspring from these dams were observed for their morphological and behavioral developments. Microphthalmia was found in only 2 pups at the 21st day of the 100 mg/kgyday group. No adverse effect of postnatal growth was observed in all treated groups. The number of ambulation in the open field test at 3 and 4 weeks of age in the 50 mg/kg/day group and at 5 weeks of age in the 100 mg/kg/day group was decreased. No inhibition of reflex development, traction response and rotorod performance was observed in all treated groups. These findings suggested that the morphological and behavioral effects of HU in SD male rats are less severe than those in Wistar male rats as was in our previous study. The strain differences in the exploratory behavior seemed to be more severe, because the specific behavioral type in both strains might be potentiated by HU treatment.
Bis(dicholroacetyl)diamine‐induced Craniofacial Anomalies in Jcl: ICR and A/J Mice
Authors: IGAWA Hiroharu H. , NAKAMURA Harukazu , YASUDA Mineo
Published: May 2008

Abstract Craniofacial anomalies induced by bis(dichloroacetyl)diamine (bisdiamine) were studied in two strains of mice, Jcl:ICR and A/J. Bisdiamine was given by oral intubation at a dose of 3,200 mg/kg/day at days 7.5 and 8.5, 8.5 and 9.5, 9.5 and 10.5 or 10.5 and 11.5 of pregnancy (VP = day 0). A/J was more susceptible to embryolethal effects of bisdiamine and had a longer sensitive period to teratogenic effects of bisdiamine. The most susceptible period for craniofacial anomalies induced by bisdiamine in A/J was one day later than that in Jcl:ICR. In both strains, median facial anomalies, cleft palate, protuberance(s) on the forehead and open eyelids were commonly induced craniofacial anomalies. Median facial anomalies were more frequent and also more severe in Jcl:ICR, while lateral cleft lip was observed only in A/J.

Strain differences for embryolethality and types and frequencies of craniofacial anomalies are discussed on the basis of genetic homozygosity, craniofacial development and embryonic face shape immediately before the fusion of the nasal prominences. Neural crest cells are thought to be the target of bisdiamine.
Mammalian Embryo Culture from the Pre‐Implantation Stage, and Analysis of Developmental Failures due to Chromosomal Abnormalities in Vitro*
Authors: NARUSE Ichiro , SONTA Shin‐ichi , Shoji Ryujiro
Published: May 2008

Abstract In vitro culture methods make it possible to manipulate mammalian embryos experimentally, and continuous observation of the developmental processes furnishes significant information for mammalian embryology. The advancement in the culture methods of the mouse embryos from the pre‐implantation through the limb bud stage is reported here, along with a description of one of the applied experiments of embryo culture from the pre‐implantation stage in the Chinese hamster.

A few mouse embryos at the limb bud stage cultured for 10 or 11 days from the blastocyst stage were obtained, but the frequencies were very low. There is a barrier to assure further development in the stationary culture of mouse blastocysts till the formation of early egg cylinder. It was suggested that trophectoderm inhibited the development of inner cell masses by enveloping them, but embryos could not develop without trophectoderm afterwards. After the egg cylinder or primitive streak stage, the medium and gas around the embryos needed to be exchanged with rotation or shaking.

Chinese hamster blastocysts could be cultured as late as the early egg cylinder stage with methods similar those employed with mouse blastocysts. Sonta (1982) has established several lines of Chinese hamster bearing various reciprocal translocations. Thus, one can obtain embryos with abnormal karyotypes from these parents. By cultivation of these embryos from the pre‐implantation stage, the present authors investigated the relationship between the developmental failures and the chromosomal abnormalities.
Advances in Amniotic Fluid Analysis*
Authors: OGITA Sachio
Published: May 2008

Abstract The present study deals with the physiological significance of changes of the constituents with fetal development and establishes newer methods of diagnosing fetal disease and maturity. ABH(O) blood group substances as a genetic marker were studied and the substances in the amniotic fluid consistently matched the blood type and secretor status of newborn. No blood group substances were detected in non‐secretors. Moreover, A‐ and B‐ gene‐specific enzyme activities in the amniotic fluid were demonstrated to coincide with the newborn type regardless of the maternal type. Rh(D) antigen in the amniotic fluid also proved to be fetal in origin.

Such markers as acid protease, amylase, disaccaridases and ultra violet absorbing constituents were demonstrated to be useful in diagnosising fetal maturity and/or anomalies.
Behavioral Teratogenesis of Heavy Metals: Problems in Experimental Research*
Authors: SHIMAI Satoshi , SATOH Hiroshi
Published: May 2008

Abstract Lead and methylmercury are environmental hazards known to have deleterious effects on the development of fetuses. In the recent decades, increasing concern has been expressed over the behavioral teratogenesis of these heavy metals. The present paper discusses some of the methodological problems in investigating the mechanisms of behavioral teratogenesis of lead and methylmercury; i.e., 1) metabolism of the substances in pregnant animals, together with fetal and neonatal exposure, 2) ages of offspring to be examined, and 3) selection of behavioral measures. Perspectives on dose‐effect relationships of behavioral teratology of these heavy metals are provided, by reviewing selected papers concerning behavioral teratology of lead and methylmercury.
Behavioral Disorders Complicating Developmental Anomalies of the Brain: Sleep Behavioral Disorders*
Authors: HASHIMOTO Toshiaki
Published: May 2008

Abstract Polysomnography in 3 1 patients with cerebral malformations was performed. In 9 cases, the hormone secretion rhythms during sleep (GH, PRL, LH, FSH and ACTH and/or cortisol) were examined.

EEG showed abnormalities in 27 of the 31 pathologic patients. A defect and poor presentation of the sleep spindle was observed in 20 cases. Patients with cerebral malformations appeared to be poor sleepers. The amount and number of wakefulness increased. A decrease in REM sleep period was observed in 19 of the 36 records. 17 of the 31 pathologic patients showed abnormal proportions of time spent in the different stages of sleep with respect to the total sleeping time. 15 of the 31 pathologic patients showed more than one discrepant cycling of sleep parameters. Abnormal hormone secretion was observed in all 9 patients who were examined.

The above results show that patients with cerebral malformations have various abnormalities of sleep behaviors, and that polysomnography is useful for studying sleep behavior in patinets with cerebral malformations.
Azosemide‐Induced Fetal Wavy Ribs and Their Disappearance after Birth in Rats
Authors: HAYASAKA Ikuo , TAMAKI Fumikazu , UCHIYAMA Kaoru , KATO Zenji , MURAKAMI Kazuo
Published: May 2008

ABSTRACT Azosemide produced bent long bones such as wavy ribs in rat fetuses, but these abnormalities could not be found in the adult offspring. In the present study, the morphological sequence from appearance to disappearance of wavy ribs was examined in cartilage‐bone double stained specimens of fetuses and pups from mothers treated with azosemide on day 16 of gestation. The first detected change of the skeletal abnormalities was inhibition of bone deposition in the ossification centers of fetuses on day 17 of gestation. A bend first appeared on day 18 of gestation, and consisted of cartilage and portion stained neither alcian blue nor alizarin red S. Ossification began at this stage. From day 19 of gestation onward, ossification progressed toward the ends of the cartilage model including the bent region. The bend disappeared in most pups as bone in the bent region grew on days 10–14 postpartum. The present findings imply that the bend may be caused by difference in growth between cartilaginous and unstained portions, and a surface remodeling of bones may straighten the bend in the subsequent bone growth.
Supraependymal Cell Clusters Induced by ENU Treatment in Developing Rat Retina
Authors: MAEDA Hiroshi , MATSUO Takeshi , NAGAISHI Tadanori , IKEDA Takayoshi
Published: May 2008

ABSTRACT Supraependymal cell clusters in the retina induced by treatment with ethylnitrosourea in fetal and. neonatal rats are described. Following the early cytotoxic effects of this drug on the matrix layer, the supraependymal cell clusters began to form a protrusion from the matrix layer into the intraretinal space through the defective portion of the outer limiting membrane. The supraependymal cell clusters consisted of matrix cells and neurons, or matrix cells, neurons, photoreceptor‐like cells, and glial cells depending on the time of treatment. The clusters became smaller in size, but they remained at least for 7 days after treatment. Our findings indicate that defect of the outer limiting membrane induced by the cytotoxic effect of ethylnitrosourea may be an essential factor for the formation of supraependymal cell clusters, and that the clusters can be regarded as a type of tissue malformation or dysontogenetic anomaly.
Biochemical and Morphological Investigation on the Ataxic Mutant Shambling Mouse
Authors: YAMAGUCHI Tomoko , KATAGIRI Noriko , IHNUMA Mono
Published: May 2008

ABSTRACT Ataxic Shambling mouse was investigated biochemically as well as morphologically to find any specific changes which would be compatible with their ataxic behaviors. Biochemical studies revealed that calcium uptake by the brain synaptosomes of ataxic mouse was decreased to about 30% at 30 mM potassium medium of the control and that the neuron specific enolase activity was lowered a half the value of control synaptosomes, while morphological investigations by Baker's staining for phospholipids disclosed little evidences of phospholipidosis in the nervous tissues and in other organs of the ataxic Shambling mouse. NAD dehydrogenase as well as myosin ATPase staining on the hindlimb muscles of the ataxic Shambling mouse showed a local atrophy and a certain derangement of muscle fibers.

These results were discussed in relation to our previous finding of lowered phosphatidylserine synthesis by the brain microsomes which participated at the neuronal transport and transmission in the synaptosomes. Consequently, the ataxic behaviors of Shambling mouse would be ascribed to defective metabolism of phspholipids and decreased brain specific enolase in the synaptosomal fractions which may possibly result in reduced calcium uptake by the synaptosomes regulating neural transmission processes.
Premature Ovarian Failure in a Woman with 47,XXX Karyotype following Gonadotrophin Treatment
Authors: OHSAWA Masami , Wu Ming‐Chao , MASAHASHI Tetsuo , ASAI Mitsuoki , NARITA Osamu
Published: May 2008

ABSTRACT A woman resulted in premature ovarian failure following gonadotrophin treatment for secondary sterility is described. The state of ovarian failure was confirmed by increased serum gonadotrophin titers, decreased serum estrogen levels, and lack of ovarian follicles on histological examination. The cause of premature ovarian failure was investigated and 47,XXX karyotype was found in chromosomal analysis. The role of sex chromosome abnormalities in the pathogenesis of this entity is discussed. Key words: premature ovarian failure, 47,XXX, gonadotrophin treatment
On the Fine Structure of Ito's Fat‐Storing Cells in the Liver of the Mouse Fetus after Maternal Treatment with Vitamin A
Authors: KOBAYASHI Kan , IWASAKI Shin‐ichi , TAKAHASHI Keiichi , UENO Minako , IGARASHI Azuma , NAGAI Hiroshi , SUZUKI Kazunori , KATSUYA Tamio
Published: May 2008

ABSTRACT The purpose of this study is to ascertain possible cytological effects of vitamin A administration to pregnant mice on the fat‐storing cells (Ito cell) in the fetus liver. Though many external anomalies were occurred in the fetus when vitamin A was given once on day 8 of gestation, it is conceivable that the appearance of these teratogenicity may not be concerned in Ito cell because liver had not yet developed at this stage. When vitamin A was given once a day for four days consecutively from day 14 to day 17 of gestation little external anomalies were appeared. By electron microscopy, cytological changes were found in Ito cell, especially the number of lipid droplets in the cytoplasm conspicuously increased. This proved that vitamin A administered to the mothers was carried into the fetuses through the placenta and Ito cells of the fetus liver had an ability to absorb vitamin A at the late stage of pregnancy.
Prevention of Genetic Polydactyly in Polydactyly Nagoya (Pdn) Mice in Vitro by Surgical Treatment of Foot Plate during Embryogenesis
Authors: NARUSE Ichiro , KAMEYAMA Yoshiro
Published: May 2008

Abstract Pdn/Pdn fetuses show preaxial Polydactyly of duplicated or triplicated metacarpal/metatarsal type in the fore‐ and hindlimbs. Pdn/+ fetuses show one extra digit of distal phalangeal type preaxially in the hindlimb and deformity of distal phalanx of the 1st digit in the forelimb. Normal patterns of physiological cell death in the preaxial apical ectodermal ridge (AER) and the deep preaxial mesoderm (fpp) were disrupted in Pdn/Pdn embryos. It was supposed that delayed involution of preaxial AER might have caused the abolishment of fpp, which in turn could have induced polydactyly in Pdn/Pdn.

In order to induce cell death in the fpp region artificially, tissue destruction of the fpp region of right fore‐ and hindfoot plates of Pdn/Pdn, Pdn/+ and +/+ embryos was performed by an electric knife on day 11.5 of gestation, and the embryos were cultured in the rotator culture system for 20 hours. The non‐treated left foot plates served as the controls.

In Pdn/Pdn embryos, the non‐treated left foot plates showed abnormal protuberance and/or the extra digital rays preaxially. But the treated right foot plates did not exhibit these abnormal characteristics. Instead they revealed 5 digital rays of mesodermal condensation in the histological sections.

These results indicated that the restriction of the artificial tissue destruction in the fpp region could prevent the manifestation of preaxial extra digits in Pdn mice.
The Xenopus laevis Embryo System for Evaluation of the Developmental Toxicity Using Non‐mammalian Species
Authors: KAMIMURA Michiko , TANIMURA Takashi
Published: May 2008

Abstract The currently applied means for detecting teratogens require evaluations in mammals. Since these studies are so time consuming and expensive, establishment of inexpensive and rapid screening system for detecting potential teratogens is needed. In order to assess the usefulness of the Xenopus embryo for developmental toxicity testing, the effects of lead acetate on embryonic and larval development of Xenopus laevis were examined. Exposure to lead acetate produced lethality and abnormality in embryos and larvae and dose‐dependency was also noted. Main abnormality after the exposure of embryos before the neurula stage was unfused neural tube with various degrees. This abnormality was mainly attributable to degeneration and desquamation of the epithelium of neural groove and neural plate region. Abnormality induced by the exposure of embryos and larvae after neurulation was mainly edema in the thorax and abnormal flexure of the body axis. Based on our data and those of other investigators, it is proposed that Xenopus embryo is a good candidate for a simple and effective test system to evaluate teratogens.
Monitoring of Birth Defects and Epidemiology*
Authors: ASHIZAWA Masami , KURACHI Keiichi
Published: May 2008

Abstract A monitoring of birth defects based on systematic collection and accumulation of data in a defined population or selected hospitals using definite diagnostic criteria offers per se indispensable source of information for epidemiological studies such as retrospective case‐control study or prospective cohort study.

Each results of statistics or monitorings of birth defects currently conducted in Japan were briefly stated.

The on‐going investigation data on congenital malformations about over 1,524,700 births performed since 1972 by Japan Association for Maternal Welfare were reviewed. Osaka and Kanagawa Programs, population‐based, have so far totally over 181,000 and 160,000 births resp.

Factors increasing malformations suggested were stillbirth, low birth weight, small for gestational dates, consanguinity and smoking during pregnancy from Kanagawa Program. As an example of on‐going international collaborative study by the members of ICBDMS, data have been collected on limb reduction deformities. However, it might be more standardized in various aspects.

Three statistical techniques — Z‐test, cusum test and sequential method were adapted to distinguish a significant increase from a baseline frequency or to identify significant temporal changes. Although abrupt fluctuations were encountered, overall patterns about 17 marker‐defects revealed to be fairly stationary in these years.

Collection of sufficient numbers of cases and controls or exposed and unexposed enough to detect significantly so far unknown complicated factors is not always easy. To clarify unknown factors (polygenic, multifactorial, synergism or spontaneous errors of development), co‐work or co‐ordinated study of epidemiology and experimental teratology would be desirable to fill the gap between them.
Preaxial Polydactyly and Hallux Varus: Classification of Hallux Varus and Relationship between Hallux Varus and Preaxial Polydactyly
Authors: MIURA Takayuki , NAKAMURA Ryougo , TORII Syuuhei , HANAKI Kazuharu , YOSHIHASHI Yuuji
Published: May 2008

Abstract The clinical features of 18 patients diagnosed as having preaxial Polydactyly and hallux varus were studied.

There are three types of hallux varus: 1) the medial great toe is pushed out by the lateral overlapping great toe, 2) the great toe is inverted by the deformed first metatarsus, and 3) the great toe is inverted by anchoring substance of the hypoplastic or degenerative medial great toe.

The general diagnosis of “hallux varus” may be reasonable based on the common appearance, but the clinical features of these three types differ from each other. The patients with hallux varus caused by anchoring of the hypoplastic or degenerative medial great toe should be strictly differentiated from the patients with hallux varus due to deformity of the metatarsus. Special consideration for treatment is needed for each type.
Ethical Problems in Teratology*
Authors: OKAMOTO Naomasa , BABA Kazuo
Published: May 2008

Abstract A symposium on the ethical problems in teratology was held to consider the problems that may occur in the research and therapy of the medical sciences. Selected titles of the symposium were as follows: 1. Some cytogenetical aspects of artificial fertilization. 2. Abortion: Ethical issues and Japanese attitudes. 3. Ethical problems of congenital malformations; “fetal therapy in utero” 4. Ethics in autopsy of human fetuses and newborns with congenital anomalies. 5. Genetic counseling. 6. Logic and ethics of learning (Gakumon).

These broad problems were discussed in all their aspects.
The Roles of Bio‐Medical, Psychological, and Social Research in Mental Retardation*
Authors: TAMAKI Yoshitaka
Published: May 2008

Abstract Advances in research (bio‐medical, psychological, and social) can provided a better understanding of the causes and effects of mental retardation. And also, fundamental research (bio‐medical, social, and neurobehavioral) into the causes of mental retardation is encouraged and facilitated. For the critical evaluation of neurobehavioral teratogenical effects, the Collaborative Studies for the Standardization of Behavioral Teratology Methods (CSSBTM) started in November 1983 in Japan. The Third CSSBTM in 1986 had in principle detailed evaluation on errors in the rnultiple water T‐maze. The Collaborative Behavioral Teratology Study was also conducted in USA, which had more extensive testing procedures rather than the CSSBTM. Apparently, advances in knowledge and techniques will increase our success in preventing the more severe conditions of mental retardation.