bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comorbidity in newly diagnosed thyroid cancer patients: a population‐based study on prevalence and the impact on treatment and survival
Authors: Kuijpens Johannes L. P. , Janssen‐Heijnen Maryska L. G. , Lemmens Valery E. P. P. , Haak Harm R. , Heijckmann A. Caroline , Coebergh Jan‐Willem W.
Published: March 2006

Background  Comorbidity may be an important contributory factor to differences in the treatment and outcome of cancer, especially in older patients. It might also provide information on the aetiology of the cancer in cases of high or low frequency. The aim of this study was to describe the spectrum of comorbidity and the possible impact on treatment and survival in newly diagnosed thyroid cancer (TC).

Design  A population‐based observational study.

Setting The Eindhoven Cancer Registry, Comprehensive Cancer Centre South (IKZ), the Netherlands.

Methods  Demographic, histological and treatment data on all 417 TC patients diagnosed between 1 January 1993 and 31 December 2002 were collected and followed up till 2004. An adapted version of the list of Charlson was used for registration of clinically relevant concomitant disorders. The prevalence of comorbidity at diagnosis was analysed according to gender, age, histological type and therapy. Crude 6‐month and 1‐ and 5‐year survival rates were determined. A regression analysis was performed to identify independent variables related to survival.

Results  Information on comorbidity was available for 378 patients (91%). Comorbidity was present in 32% of the patients; 23% had one and 12% had two or more concomitant diseases. The prevalence of comorbidity increased with age. Hypertension was the most frequent comorbidity (18%), followed by ‘other cancers’ (7%), cardiovascular diseases (6%) and diabetes mellitus (6%). The prevalence of hypertension was twice as high as expected at all age groups. Six patients > 60 years had had tuberculosis. Initial surgical treatment was negatively related to the presence of concomitant diseases in patients < 70 years (P = 0·02), but not in patients ≥ 70 years. Comorbidity was not independently associated with crude survival up to 5 years.

Conclusions  A previous diagnosis of hypertension was associated with TC. The use of external radiation for diagnostic and therapeutic procedures for tuberculosis probably explains the high prevalence of former tuberculosis in elderly TC patients. Treatment choices appeared to be influenced by the presence of comorbidity. Comorbidity did not affect survival up to 5 years; a study with a longer period of follow‐up is needed.
Influence of parasellar extension of macroprolactinomas defined by magnetic resonance imaging on their responsiveness to dopamine agonist therapy
Authors: Delgrange Etienne , Duprez Thierry , Maiter Dominique
Published: March 2006

Objective and Design  The resistance of macroprolactinomas to dopamine agonist (DA) therapy, whether defined as an absence of PRL normalization or the lack of significant tumour shrinkage after prolonged treatment at high doses, is usually regarded as unpredictable. The aim of this retrospective study, conducted in a teaching hospital, was to determine whether cavernous sinus (CS) invasion assessed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is associated with a higher rate of resistance to DA therapy.

Methods  Forty‐nine patients with a macroprolactinoma were included in this study and classified into four groups according to the percentage of encasement of the intracavernous internal carotid artery (ICA) by the tumour. All patients received DA as the primary treatment, mainly cabergoline (CAB). PRL normalization and tumour shrinkage during treatment were evaluated as a function of CS invasion.

Results  Tumours encasing more than three‐quarters of the intracavernous ICA (group 4) were less responsive to DA therapy, exhibiting a lower rate of early (≤ 3 months) PRL normalization (8%vs. 69% in the others groups; P < 0·01) under a higher dose of CAB (median: 3·5 mg vs. 1·0 mg per week; P < 0·01). CS invasion was a strongly significant and independent predictor of hormonal resistance to CAB (P < 0·01). This hormonal resistance occurred in eight patients (16%), all but one belonging to group 4. Significant tumour shrinkage was observed in 31 out of 45 assessable cases (69%) and was more likely to occur in the case of PRL normalization (P < 0·01).

Conclusions  Parasellar extension of macroprolactinomas, assessed on the basis of strict MRI criteria, may predict a negative response to DA. The responsiveness of noninvasive macroprolactinomas (over 90%) is similar to that reported in microprolactinomas, whereas invasive tumours are resistant to treatment in more than 50% of cases.
Effects of oestradiol and oestroprogestin on erythrocyte antioxidative enzyme system activity in postmenopausal women
Authors: Bednarek‐Tupikowska Grazyna , Tworowska Urszula , Jedrychowska Iwona , Radomska Barbara , Tupikowski Krzysztof , Bidzinska‐Speichert Bozena , Milewicz Andrzej
Published: March 2006

Objective  Data concerning the relationship between sex steroid hormones and the cellular antioxidative enzyme system are controversial. We investigated the effects of oestradiol deficiency after menopause and the influence of transdermal oestradiol therapy (ET) and hormonal (oestradiol plus medroxyprogesterone) replacement therapy (HT) on erythrocyte superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH‐Px) and catalase (CAT). GSH and selenium (Se) concentrations were also estimated. Serum lipid peroxide (LPO) levels were measured as an indicator of free‐radical production and lipid peroxidation.

Patients  The study group consisted of 80 postmenopausal women, divided into two subgroups: 26 women with surgically induced menopause (ET1) and 54 women with physiological menopause (HT1). Forty premenopausal healthy volunteers were controls (C group).

Results  LPO was higher in postmenopausal women and decreased after both ET and HT. GSH‐Px and GSH were lower in the postmenopausal groups but increased significantly after both types of therapy. Se concentrations did not differ significantly among the groups. CAT activities were similar in all groups and decreased after ET and HT. SOD activities in postmenopausal women were similar to those in the C group and did not change significantly after treatment.

Conclusions  The administration of natural oestrogens to postmenopausal women diminishes oxidative stress and increases antioxidative cell potency.
Congenital primary hypothyroidism with subsequent adenomatous goiter in a Turkish patient caused by a homozygous 10‐bp deletion in the thyroid peroxidase (TPO) gene
Authors: Pfarr Nicole , Musholt Thomas J. , Musholt Petra B. , Brzezinska Rita , Pohlenz Joachim
Published: March 2006

Objective  Congenital primary hypothyroidism occurs in 1 of 4000 births. Whereas the majority of the cases are due to developmental defects of the thyroid gland, 20% carry a defect in thyroid hormonogenesis. We report a Turkish boy who had goitrous hypothyroidism due to a mutation in the thyroid peroxidase (TPO) gene.

Design  The TPO gene was sequenced directly from genomic DNA and cDNA which was transcribed from three RNA samples harvested from different parts of the patient's excised thyroid gland.

Patient  The boy was thyroidectomized because of continuing growth of his thyroid gland and development of multiple nodes suspected of malignancy by ultrasound examination. Histopathological examination verified a dyshormonogenetic goiter with multiple follicular adenomas.

Results  The patient had a novel homozygous 10‐bp deletion of the TPO gene at position 2812 in exon 16. This frame shift mutation results in a severely altered intracellular part of the protein. The deletion identified in leucocyte DNA was also found in thyroid tissue cDNA – so that instability of the transcript or a splicing defect was excluded. Both unaffected parents were heterozygous carriers of the mutation whereas 50 healthy individuals of the same ethnic background did not harbour the mutation.

Conclusions  The identified TPO gene deletion is the first mutation coding for an inactive TPO molecule, which has a severely altered intracellular segment. Because the most likely reason for the enlarging goiter was poor compliance of the patient, this report underlines the importance of a careful and regular follow‐up of patients with dyshormonogenesis.
Influences of El Niño on assemblages of mesopelagic fish larvae along the Pacific coast of Baja California Sur
Authors: FUNES‐RODRÍGUEZ RENÉ , HINOJOSA‐MEDINA ALEJANDRO , ACEVES‐MEDINA GERARDO , JIMÉNEZ‐ROSENBERG SYLVIA P. A. , JESÚS BAUTISTA‐ROMERO J.
Published: March 2006

Seasonal assemblages of mesopelagic fish larvae and changes related with environmental factors (plankton biomass, sea surface temperature anomaly, upwelling, and the multivariate El Niño index) were investigated. From 1982 to 1987, 16 oceanographic cruises were carried out along the Pacific coast of Baja California Sur, Mexico. Larvae of 42 mesopelagic fish taxa were collected. Larval abundance was highly variable during the studied period, but summer months coincided with higher abundance (>200 larvae under 10 m2). Larval assemblages were dominated by three of the most common species of tropical (Vinciguerria lucetia, Diogenichthys laternatus) and subtropical affinity (Triphoturus mexicanus). A group of species of tropical affinity (Diplophos proximus, Diaphus pacificus, Benthosema panamense) was useful for distinguishing the 1982–84 El Niño event, and an assemblage of larvae of temperate affinity (Symbolophorus californiensis, Melamphaes lugubris, Bathylagus ochotensis, Leuroglossus stilbius, Protomyctophum crockeri) characterized ‘normal’ years (mid‐1984 to mid‐1987).
Rehabilitation by means of osseointegrated implants in oral cancer patients with about four to six years follow‐up
Authors: SEKINE J. , SANO K. , IKEDA H. , INOKUCHI T.
Published: March 2006

summary  This paper describes the reconstruction of mandibular defects in four oral cancer patients using iliac crest bone grafts and osseointegrated implants. In three patients, reconstructive surgery using a reconstruction plate and free forearm skin flap was performed following tumour and segmental mandibular resection. After 7–9 months, mandibular reconstruction with a free iliac bone graft was carried out. In one patient, reconstructive surgery was performed with vascularized iliac bone grafting with an anterolateral thigh flap at the same time as the tumour resection. Fixtures were placed in the transplanted bone, and abutments were connected 6–9 months later together with vestibuloplasty. Gingival grafts were used to replace the skin flap around abutments. All implants survived throughout the approximately 4–6 years observation time. Marginal bone loss of the graft was originally several millimetres but less than 1·5 mm. Bone loss as well as management of peri‐implant soft tissue was also discussed.
A comparison of 2D and 3D finite element analysis of a restored tooth
Authors: ROMEED S. A. , FOK S. L. , WILSON N. H. F.
Published: March 2006

summary  The finite element method is widely used in dental research. The decision to use two‐dimensional (2D) or three‐dimensional (3D) modelling is dependent on many interrelated factors. The purpose of the present study was to compare and contrast 2D and 3D finite element analysis (FEA) in investigating the mechanical behaviour of a maxillary premolar restored with a full crown under similar conditions of axial and lateral occlusal loading. The 2D analysis required modelling both a buccolingual and mesiodistal section of the restored premolar and for comparison sections of a 3D model were examined. Differences in the results for displacement and maximum principal stress distribution within the component structures and interfaces of the 2D and 3D models were, in general, attributable to differences in geometry represented in the models. Maximum principal stresses tended to be greater under lateral rather than axial occlusal loading. It was concluded that 2D FEA may find application in investigating key aspects of the mechanical behaviour of a dental restoration in a single tooth unit, but that in certain situations combinations of 2D and 3D FEA may offer the best understanding of the biomechanical behaviour of complex dental structures. Sophisticated FE models are required to better understand the mechanical behaviour of restored tooth units.
A comparison of the head and cervical posture between the self‐balanced position and the Frankfurt method
Authors: ARMIJO‐OLIVO S. , JARA X. , CASTILLO N. , ALFONSO L. , SCHILLING A. , VALENZUELA E. , FRUGONE R. , MAGEE D.
Published: March 2006

summary  Head and cervical posture evaluation has been a concern for many years, not only because of the purported relationship that exists between head and cervical posture in the presence of temporomandibular disorders, neck pain and headache, but also because of the biomechanical relationship between the head and cervical spine and dentofacial structures. Many methods have been suggested in an attempt to establish the best way to evaluate the position of the head using teleradiographs and cephalometric analysis. However, there is still no agreement as to which procedure is the best. The objective of this study was to evaluate the differences that exist between craniocervical measurements in lateral teleradiographs when comparing the position of the head in the self‐balanced position to the position of the head using the Frankfurt method (Frankfurt plane parallel to the floor). Sixty‐eight subjects who sought dental treatment in community health centres in Talca, Chile participated in this study. Rocabado analysis was used to measure the craniocervical variables. The Cobb analysis was used to measure cervical lordosis. A paired student t‐test was used to evaluate the differences between both procedures, using an α of 0·05 and a power of 0·90. The use of the cephalostat changed only the craniocervical angle (P < 0·001). However, this change was minimal. No changes related to gender and age were found. More studies are needed to determine the variation between different procedures and to define a good procedure for evaluating head posture.
Immunotoxic activity of ochratoxin A
Authors: AL‐ANATI L. , PETZINGER E.
Published: March 2006

Ochratoxin A (OTA) is an immunosuppressant fungal compound, produced by toxigenic species ofAspergillusandPenicilliumfungi in a wide variety of climates and geographical regions. The contamination of food by this mycotoxin takes place primarily during preharvest periods. Almost all types of food can be contaminated. In addition, its chemical stability against heat and during industrial food processing makes OTA one of the most abundant food contaminating mycotoxins. Due in part to its long serum half‐life in man, almost 100% of all human blood samples from some geographic regions may be positive for OTA. The immunosuppressant activity of OTA is characterized by size reduction of vital immune organs, such as thymus, spleen, and lymph nodes, depression of antibody responses, alterations in the number and functions of immune cells, and modulation of cytokine production. The immunotoxic activity of OTA probably results from degenerative changes and cell death following necrosis and apoptosis, in combination with slow replacement of affected immune cells, due to inhibition of protein synthesis.
Use of tissue–fluid correlations to estimate gentamicin residues in kidney tissue of Holstein steers
Authors: CHIESA O. A. , VON BREDOW J. , HELLER D. , NOCHETTO C. , SMITH M. , MOULTON K. , THOMAS M.
Published: March 2006

Gentamicin continues to be one of the most effective antibiotics for the treatment of gram‐negative infections. Greater than 90% of the drug is rapidly eliminated from the body in <2 days, however, a small residue remains bound to the kidney cortex tissue for many months. In beef steers, the gentamicin residue is unacceptable and its presence is monitored by the FAST (Fast Antimicrobial Screen Test) applied to the kidney at the time of slaughter. The sensitivity of the FAST to gentamicin in the kidney cortex is reported to be 100 ng/g, therefore, this level of gentamicin defines the acceptable limit of gentamicin drug residue in the bovine kidney. In the present study, three doses of 4 mg/kg gentamicin was administered intramuscularly to eight steers. Gentamicin was allowed to deplete from the kidneys for a range of times from 7 to 10 months. At slaughter the level of gentamicin in the kidney cortex varied from 91 to 193 ng/g, but a total of 160 FAST tests performed on the kidneys were negative. Blood and urine samples were collected at varying times following the last dose of gentamicin. Kidney tissue samples were collected by laparoscopic surgery in the live steers as well as the final sample obtained at slaughter. Plasma levels of gentamicin declined rapidly to nondetectable within 3 days, while measurable urine persisted for 75 days before the concentration of gentamicin declined to levels too low to quantitate by the available liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC/MS/MS) technique. An estimated correlation between an extrapolation of urine gentamicin concentration to the corresponding kidney tissue sample suggests a urine to kidney tissue relationship of 1:100. A test system sufficiently sensitive to a urine gentamicin concentration of 1 ng/mL will correlate with the estimated 100 ng/g gentamicin limit of the FAST applied to the fresh kidney of the recently slaughtered bovine.
Chemosensory Response of Desert Iguanas (Dipsosaurus dorsalis) to Skin Lipids from A Lizard‐Eating Snake (Lampropeltis getula californiae)
Authors: Bealor Matthew T. , O'Neil Krekorian C.
Published: March 2006

Several species of lizards respond to chemicals from sympatric lizard‐eating snakes with increased tongue‐extrusion rates. These substances also elicit antipredator behavior indicating that they have important ecological functions and the resulting behavior can have serious implications for individual fitness of lizards. However, the source and type of snake chemical cues that elicit these behavioral changes in lizards have yet to be determined. We tested the ability of adult desert iguanas (Dipsosaurus dorsalis) to detect and identify a potential predator by exposing them to lipids extracted from shed snakeskins. Lipids were extracted from cast skins of a known lizard‐eating snake, the California kingsnake (Lampropeltis getula californiae), using chloroform and methanol. Test subjects were presented with skin lipids as well as clean, pungent, and chloroform controls on cotton‐tipped applicators in random order. Desert iguanas directed significantly more tongue extrusions toward applicators bearing snakeskin lipids when compared with controls. In addition, overall tongue‐extrusion frequency increased following exposure to lipids during the 5‐min trials. Desert iguanas clearly detected snakeskin lipids, but this stimulus failed to elicit changes in body posture and movement patterns previously observed in experiments using chemical cues from live snakes. Increased tongue flicking by lizards in response to snakeskin lipids may represent a generalized response to this class of chemicals. Additional potential sources of chemicals used in the detection of lizard‐eating snakes are discussed.
Underwater Video Reveals Strong Avoidance of Chemical Alarm Cues by Prey Fishes
Authors: Friesen Robert G. , Chivers Douglas P.
Published: March 2006

A diversity of fishes release chemical cues upon being attacked by a predator. These cues, commonly termed alarm cues, act as sources of public information warning conspecifics of predation risk. Species which are members of the same prey guild (i.e. syntopic and share predators) often respond to one another's alarm cues. The purpose of this study was to discriminate avoidance responses of fishes to conspecific alarm cues and cues of other prey guild members from responses to unknown damaged fish odours and novel odours. We used underwater video to measure avoidance responses of freshwater littoral species, namely fathead minnows (Pimephales promelas), finescale dace (Chrosomus neogaeus), and brook stickleback (Culaea inconstans), to both injured fish cues and novel non‐fish odours. The cyprinids (minnows and dace) showed significant avoidance of minnow cues over swordtail cues, morpholine, and the control of distilled water and tended to avoid fathead cues over cues of known prey guild members (stickleback). Cyprinids also significantly avoided cues of stickleback over unknown heterospecific cues (swordtail) and tended to avoid stickleback cues over morpholine and the distilled water control. Stickleback significantly avoided fathead minnow extract over the distilled water and tended to avoid stickleback and swordtail over distilled water. We conclude that fishes in their natural environment can show dramatic changes in behaviour upon exposure to alarm cues from conspecifics and prey guild members. These responses do not represent avoidance of cues of any injured fish or any novel odour.
Effect on graft and patient survival between shipped and locally transplanted well‐matched cadaveric renal allografts in Australia over a 10‐year period
Authors: LIM WAI H , MCDONALD STEPHEN P , RUSS GRAEME R
Published: March 2006

Background: The national sharing of well‐matched cadaveric renal allografts has been established since 1992 in Australia. It remains uncertain whether the shipment of renal allografts interstate has a detrimental effect on graft and patient survival.

Methods: Using data collected by the Australia and New Zealand Dialysis and Transplant Registry (ANZDATA), graft and patient survival were compared between shipped (n = 623) and locally transplanted allografts (n = 894) in Australia between January 1992 and December 2001.

Results: Shipped renal allografts were from younger donors and had a longer ischaemic time, and were transplanted into higher risk recipients. Shipping of allografts had no effect on graft or patient survival, acute rejection at 6 months, presence of delayed graft function and serum creatinine at 6 and 12 months. In addition, human leucocyte antigen‐matching and allograft ischaemic time had no effect on graft or patient survival.

Conclusion: Recipients of either shipped or locally transplanted well‐matched renal allografts have similar graft and patient survivals.
Propyl gallate‐induced platelet aggregation in patients with end‐stage renal disease: The influence of the haemodialysis procedure
Authors: ELEFTHERIADIS THEODOROS , ANTONIADI GEORGIA , LIAKOPOULOS VASSILIOS , TSIANDOULAS APOSTOLOS , BARBOUTIS KONSTANTINOS , STEFANIDIS IOANNIS
Published: March 2006

Background:  Platelet dysfunction is a well‐established disturbance in haemodialysis (HD) patients. Propyl gallate is a synthetic platelet activator with the property to stimulate platelet aggregation. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the influence of a single haemodialysis session on propyl gallate‐induced platelet aggregation.

Methods:  Thirty‐nine HD patients were enrolled in the study and 20 healthy volunteers were studied as controls. Cellulose diacetate (CD) dialysers were used in 20 patients and polysulphone dialysers in 19. HD was performed via an A‐V fistula in 27 patients and via an i.v. catheter in 12. Erythropoietin was administered in 37 patients (epoietin‐alpha in 24 and darbepoietin in 13). Thirty‐four were receiving the low‐molecular‐weight heparin tinzaparin. Propyl gallate slide aggregometry was used for evaluating platelet aggregation.

Results:  In HD patients, platelet aggregation was impaired before as well as after the HD session. No effect of the HD procedure, type of vascular access, adequacy of HD or type of erythropoietin on the propyl gallate‐induced platelet aggregation was detected. Platelet aggregation was higher when CD dialyser was used. A negative correlation between the time needed for platelet aggregation to occur and tinzaparin dose was found.

Conclusion:  Propyl gallate‐induced platelet aggregation in HD patients is impaired. Platelet aggregation was higher in patients dialysed with CD membrane than in those dialysed with polysulphone membrane. The higher the dose of tinzaparin, the higher the platelet aggregation. The clinical significance of the above results needs further evaluation.
Dietary protein restriction benefits patients with chronic kidney disease (Review Article)
Authors: MANDAYAM SREEDHAR , MITCH WILLIAM E
Published: March 2006

SUMMARY:  The prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) is rapidly increasing so every strategy should be used to avoid the complications of CKD. Most CKD symptoms or uraemia are caused by protein intolerance; symptoms arise because the patient is unable to excrete metabolic products of dietary protein and the ions contained in protein‐rich foods. Consequently, CKD patients accumulate salt, phosphates, uric acid and many nitrogen‐containing metabolic products, and secondary problems of metabolic acidosis, bone disease and insulin resistance become prominent. These problems can be avoided with dietary planning. Protein‐restricted diets do not produce malnutrition and with these diets even patients with advanced CKD maintain body weight, serum albumin and normal electrolyte values. Non‐compliance is a problem, but this can be detected using standard techniques to provide the patient with appropriate responses. The role of dietary protein restriction in the progression of CKD has not been proven, but it can reduce albuminuria and will prevent uraemic symptoms. Until a means of preventing kidney disease or progression is found, safe methods of management such as dietary manipulation should be available for CKD patients.
Jejunal dopamine and Na+,K+‐ATPase activity in early chronic renal insufficiency
Authors: SAMPAIO‐MAIA BENEDITA , SERRAO PAULA , MOURA MANUELA , PESTANA MANUEL
Published: March 2006

Aim:  The uninephrectomised and three‐quarter nephrectomised (3/4nx) rats present dopamine‐sensitive enhanced natriuresis. This is accompanied in uninephrectomised rats by a reduced jejunal Na+,K+‐ATPase activity with recovered sensitivity to inhibition by dopamine. The present study examined the jejunal Na+,K+‐ATPase activity and the role of dopamine in 3/4nx animals.

Methods:  Fourteen days after surgery, the L‐amino acid decarboxylase activity (AADC) activity, the enzyme responsible for the synthesis of dopamine, and the Na+,K+‐ATPase activity, were determined in jejunal epithelial cells from 3/4nx and Sham rats. In addition, the effect of dopamine (1 µmol/L) on jejunal Na+,K+‐ATPase activity was evaluated in both groups.

Results:  The 3/4nx rats presented a reduced AADC activity in jejunal epithelial cells (Vmax in nmol/mg prot/15 min, 142 ± 6 vs 190 ± 10, P < 0.05). In addition, the jejunal Na+,K+‐ATPase activity was increased in 3/4nx rats (Pi release in nmol/mg prot/min, 137 ± 1 vs 122 ± 2, P < 0.05). However, dopamine was unable to inhibit the Na+,K+‐ATPase activity in jejunal epithelial cells from both 3/4nx and Sham animals.

Conclusions:  In contrast to uninephrectomy, the jejunal Na+,K+‐ATPase activity is increased in 3/4nx rats and is not sensitive to inhibition by dopamine.
Relapsing Bacillus licheniformis peritonitis in a continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis patient (Case Report)
Authors: PARK DONG JUN , YUN JI CHUL , BAEK JOO EUN , JUNG EUN YOUNG , LEE DONG WON , KIM ME‐AE , CHANG SE‐HO
Published: March 2006

SUMMARY:  Bacillus licheniformis is a rare pathogen in continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) peritonitis. Only one case of B. licheniformis peritonitis has been previously reported but relapsing peritonitis by same species has not been reported. A 31‐year‐old man undergoing CAPD was admitted to our hospital with diarrhoea and turbid peritoneal effluent. Although B. licheniformis was cultured at his previous admission, we did not consider the species as a pathogen. After the same species was cultured twice consecutively at the subsequent admission, we confirmed that B. licheniformis was a pathogen of CAPD peritonitis. After appropriate intraperitoneal antibiotics therapy, the patient improved. He is currently undergoing CAPD without catheter removal.
Glomerular changes in the KK‐Ay/Ta mouse: A possible model for human type 2 diabetic nephropathy
Authors: ITO TAKAMICHI , TANIMOTO MITSUO , YAMADA KAORI , KANEKO SHIGERU , MATSUMOTO MASAKAZU , OBAYASHI KEIKO , HAGIWARA SHINJI , MURAKOSHI MAKI , AOKI TATSUYA , WAKABAYASHI MICHIRO , GOHDA TOMOHITO , FUNABIKI KAZUHIKO , MAEDA KUNIMI , HORIKOSHI SATOSHI , TOMINO YASUHIKO
Published: March 2006

Background:  In type 2 diabetic nephropathy, there is no animal model which has been completely matched with humans. Advanced glycation end products (AGE) and transforming growth factor‐beta (TGF‐β) are closely related to hyperglycaemia and their pathobiochemistry could explain diabetic nephropathy. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the KK‐Ay/Ta mouse as a suitable model for type 2 diabetic nephropathy including pathological changes and immunohistochemical analyses of AGE and TGF‐β, compared with the non‐diabetic BALB/cA mouse.

Methods:  The urinary albumin/creatinine ratio (ACR), body weight (BW), fasting and casual blood glucose, blood haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), creatinine clearance (Ccr) and blood pressure were measured for phenotypic characterisation. The pathological changes of glomeruli were evaluated by light microscopy, immunofluorescence and electron microscopy. AGE and TGF‐β accumulation were evaluated by immunoperoxidase staining.

Results:  The mean levels of ACR, casual blood glucose, blood HbA1c and Ccr in KK‐Ay/Ta mice were higher than those in age‐matched non‐diabetic BALB/cA mice after 12 weeks of age. There were no significant changes in the levels of systemic blood pressure among all groups. The pathological changes of glomeruli in KK‐Ay/Ta mice were consistent with those in the early stage of human diabetic nephropathy. AGE and TGF‐β protein appeared to be localised in the glomerular mesangial matrices.

Conclusion:  It appears that KK‐Ay/Ta mice, especially in terms of histopathological findings, are a suitable animal model for the early stage of type 2 diabetic nephropathy.
Dietary protein restriction as a treatment for slowing chronic kidney disease progression: The case against (Review Article)
Authors: JOHNSON DAVID W
Published: March 2006

SUMMARY:  Low‐protein diets (≤0.7 g/kg per day) have been advocated for over 70 years as a means of slowing the rate of progression of kidney disease and delaying the appearance of uraemic symptoms and need for dialysis. However, the available evidence to date suggests that the benefit : risk ratio of dietary protein restriction is not favourable in that: (i) compliance is generally sub‐optimal; (ii) most of the published randomised controlled trials demonstrate that low‐protein diets do not significantly slow the rate of kidney disease progression; (iii) meta‐analyses of controlled trials have demonstrated strong evidence of publication bias favouring studies with positive, rather than negative, results; (iv) the optimal level and duration of dietary protein intake have not been defined; (v) there is no convincing clinical evidence that dietary protein restriction provides any benefit beyond that afforded by angiotensin blockade; and (vi) low‐protein diets are associated with both statistically and clinically significant declines in nutritional markers in chronic kidney disease populations, which already have a high prevalence of malnutrition. Patients with progressive kidney disease are therefore likely to be better served by avoiding dietary protein restriction (thereby ensuring optimal preservation of their nutrition) and instituting alternative, proven renoprotective measures (e.g. renin‐angiotensin system blockade, blood pressure reduction and statin therapy).
Direct gene delivery to murine testis as a possible means of transfection of mature sperm and epithelial cells lining epididymal ducts
Authors: SATO MASAHIRO
Published: March 2006

The use of a sperm cell to introduce exogenous DNA into an oocyte at the time of fertilization is of interest for the simple production of transgenic mice, and is now called ‘sperm‐mediated gene transfer (SMGT)’. In vivo transfection of sperm cells has been developed as an alternative method for SMGT and can be carried out by direct gene delivery into an interstitial space in a testis (now called ‘testis‐mediated gene transfer [TMGT]’), into the vas deferens, or into seminiferous tubules. This review summarizes what has been achieved in the field of in vivo gene transfer using sperm cells. (Reprod Med Biol 2006; 5: 1–7)
Strain difference in tolerance to low‐temperature treatment of fertilized mouse oocytes
Authors: SAKURAI TAKAYUKI , WATANABE SATOSHI , KIMURA MINORU , SATO MASAHIRO
Published: March 2006

Background and Aims:  The aim of this study was to determine which mouse strains exhibit tolerance to cooling when fertilized oocytes have been stored at 4°C.

Methods:  In‐vitro‐fertilization‐derived oocytes of eight mouse strains were incubated at 4°C in 20 mmol/L Hepes‐potassium modified simplex optimized medium (KSOM) medium for 0, 24, 48, 60 or 72 h, and then returned to normal culture conditions at 37°C in KSOM medium. The rates of development of cultured oocytes into blastocysts and cell numbers of blastocysts were examined. In some cases, a Comet assay was carried out to evaluate DNA damage. In addition, the effects of β‐mercaptoethanol on the development of the 4°C‐treated oocytes were assessed.

Results:  Of the eight strains tested, BDF1, B6C3F1 and FVB/N strains exhibited relatively higher degrees of tolerance to 4°C treatment and approximately 90%, 83% and 78% of oocytes treated at 4°C for 48 h developed to morphologically normal blastocysts, respectively. Comet assay revealed no clear DNA damage in oocytes treated at 4°C. Treatment with β‐mercaptoethanol failed to improve the in vitro survival rate of low‐temperature‐treated oocytes.

Conclusion:  Strain differences were observed in tolerance to cooling treatment when fertilized oocytes were temporarily treated with 4°C, although the reasons for this remain unclear. (Reprod Med Biol 2006; 5: 43–50)
Accelerated decline in pregnancy rate after in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer in 35–41‐year‐old women: 15 years’ experience in the Okinawa Islands, Japan
Authors: TERUYA YOKO , KAMIYAMA SHIGERU , HIRAKAWA MAKOTO , YAMASHIRO KIE , KANAZAWA KOJI
Published: March 2006

Aim:  To describe 15 years of in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (IVF–ET) treatment at University Hospital, with special reference to a potential association between pregnancy rate and patient age.

Methods:  A retrospective analysis of 2355 IVF–ET cycles carried out in 789 patients was undertaken. The main outcome measures were ovarian response, fertilization rate and pregnancy rate.

Results:  Pregnancy rates in ET cycles carried out in women aged between 23 and 46 years fell significantly with patient age, with a more rapid decline after 35 years and particularly between 35 and 41 years. Almost all laboratory findings were significantly worse with increased patient age, although fertilization rate did not drop with age. The spontaneous abortion rate increased drastically with age and the vast majority of abortions resulted from chromosomal abnormality.

Conclusion:  It is essential to provide infertile women with practical and reliable information on the age‐associated pregnancy rate for appropriate counseling and to encourage them to seek IVF–ET treatment at an earlier age. (Reprod Med Biol 2006; 5: 51–57)
Comparison of the number of spermatogonia and Sertoli cells in fetal and neonatal testes autopsied between 1958–1964 and 1989–1998 in Tokyo
Authors: ENDO HISAKO , TAKEMURA TAMIKO , FUKAYAMA MASASHI , TSUTSUMI OSAMU
Published: March 2006

Background:  Studies in several countries have reported a decline in human sperm quality similar to that observed in wild animals. To quantify whether the number of sperm in humans has decreased and whether humans are affected by similar environmental influences, we compared the number of spermatogonia and Sertoli cells in human fetal and neonatal testes autopsied at two institutions in Tokyo between 1958–1964 (term A) and 1989–1998 (term B), with special attention to chronological changes during gestation.

Methods:  We used an immunohistochemical method with antibody against neuron‐specific enolase to determine the percentage of seminiferous tubules containing spermatogonia in the formalin‐fixed tissue samples, and a morphometrical method using a dissector to count the number of spermatogonia.

Results:  There were no significant statistical differences between the two time periods in the regression parameters compared for the number of spermatogonia and Sertoli cells, nor was there a remarkable difference in the estimated number of Leydig cells.

Conclusion:  The results indicate that even if there has been a deterioration in human semen quality, it is not necessarily caused by endocrine disruption of fetal testicular development. (Reprod Med Biol 2006; 5: 65–70)
Folliculogenesis following syngeneic transplantation of young murine ovaries into the testes
Authors: SATO MASAHIRO , SAKURAI TAKAYUKI , KIRYU KAZUNORI , TAKEDA MASAKI , YASUOKA YUKIKO
Published: March 2006

Background and Aim:  To examine the effects of intratesticular transplantation on the growth and maturation of young murine ovaries.

Methods:  Two‐week‐old ovaries from transgenic mice with enhanced green fluorescent protein expression were transplanted under the testicular capsule of 4‐week‐old non‐transgenic mice.

Results:  Two months after transplantation all successfully grafted ovaries had survived, based on the presence of bright green fluorescence. The grafts showed various stages of folliculogenesis, including expanded follicles. The neighboring seminiferous tubules had a normal structure and mature sperm in their lumens, indicating active spermatogenesis, and all the recipient males were fertile. There was no evidence of extensive cell migration from the grafted ovaries into the testis. Similar findings were obtained for the grafted ovaries 6 months after surgery, although cell death (as evidenced by yellowish or pale fluorescence) was more frequent.

Conclusion:  Young murine ovaries can grow and mature autonomously for at least 6 months unaffected by the male hormonal environment. (Reprod Med Biol 2006; 5: 71–77)
Climate change and disaster management
Authors: O'Brien Geoff , O'Keefe Phil , Rose Joanne , Wisner Ben
Published: March 2006

Climate change, although a natural phenomenon, is accelerated by human activities. Disaster policy response to climate change is dependent on a number of factors, such as readiness to accept the reality of climate change, institutions and capacity, as well as willingness to embed climate change risk assessment and management in development strategies. These conditions do not yet exist universally. A focus that neglects to enhance capacity‐building and resilience as a prerequisite for managing climate change risks will, in all likelihood, do little to reduce vulnerability to those risks. Reducing vulnerability is a key aspect of reducing climate change risk. To do so requires a new approach to climate change risk and a change in institutional structures and relationships. A focus on development that neglects to enhance governance and resilience as a prerequisite for managing climate change risks will, in all likelihood, do little to reduce vulnerability to those risks.
Local initiatives and adaptation to climate change
Authors: Rojas Blanco Ana V.
Published: March 2006

Climate change is expected to lead to an increase in the number and strength of natural hazards produced by climatic events. This paper presents some examples of the experiences of community‐based organisations (CBOs) and non‐governmental organisations (NGOs) of variations in climate, and looks at how they have incorporated their findings into the design and implementation of local adaptation strategies. Local organisations integrate climate change and climatic hazards into the design and development of their projects as a means of adapting to their new climatic situation. Projects designed to boost the resilience of local livelihoods are good examples of local adaptation strategies. To upscale these adaptation initiatives, there is a need to improve information exchange between CBOs, NGOs and academia. Moreover, there is a need to bridge the gap between scientific and local knowledge in order to create projects capable of withstanding stronger natural hazards.
Long‐Term Avifaunal Impoverishment in an Isolated Tropical Woodlot
Authors: SODHI NAVJOT S. , LEE TIEN MING , KOH LIAN PIN , PRAWIRADILAGA DEWI M.
Published: March 2006

Abstract: Long‐term (>50 years) extinction patterns and processes in isolated tropical forest patches are poorly understood. Considering that forest fragments are rapidly becoming the common feature of most tropical landscapes, data on the long‐term conservation value of such fragments are urgently needed. We report on avifaunal turnover in a tropical woodlot (Bogor Botanical Gardens; 86 ha; 54% native and 46% introduced plants; mean 83,649 visitors/month) that has been surveyed several times before and after its isolation in 1936. By 2004 the original avifaunal richness of this woodlot declined by 59% (97 to 40 species) and its forest‐dependent avifauna declined by 60% (30 to 12 species). Large‐bodied birds were particularly prone to extinction before 1987, but following this time none of the species traits we studied could be considered predictive of extinction proneness. All seven forest‐dependent bird species that attempted to colonize this woodlot by 1987 perished thereafter. Our results show that area reduction, isolation, intense human use, and perverse management (e.g., understory removal) of this patch have probably negatively affected the long‐term sustainability of its forest avifauna.
Acute 40 percent exchange‐transfusion with hemoglobin‐vesicles (HbV) suspended in recombinant human serum albumin solution: degradation of HbV and erythropoiesis in a rat spleen for 2 weeks
Authors: Sakai Hiromi , Horinouchi Hirohisa , Yamamoto Manabu , Ikeda Eiji , Takeoka Shinji , Takaori Masuhiko , Tsuchida Eishun , Kobayashi Koichi
Published: March 2006

BACKGROUND:  Hemoglobin‐vesicles (HbVs; diameter, 251 ± 81 nm) are artificial O2 carriers. Their efficacy for acute exchange transfusion has been characterized in animal models. However subsequent profiles of recovery involving the degradation of HbV in the reticuloendothelial system (RES) and hematopoiesis remain unknown.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS:  Isovolemic 40 percent exchange transfusion was performed in 60 male Wistar rats with HbV suspended in 5 g per dL recombinant human serum albumin (rHSA; HbV/rHSA, [Hb] = 8.6 g/dL), stored rat RBCs suspended in rHSA (sRBC/rHSA), or rHSA alone. Hematological and plasma biochemical analyses and histopathological examination focusing on the spleen were conducted for the subsequent 14 days.

RESULTS:  The reduced hematocrit (Hct) level (26%) for the HbV/rHSA and rHSA groups returned to its original level (43%) in 7 days. Plasma erythropoietin was elevated in all groups: the rHSA group showed the highest value on Day 1 (321 ± 123 mIU/mL) relating to the anemic conditions (HbV/rHSA, 153 ± 22; sRBC/rHSA, 63 ± 7; baseline, 21 ± 3). Simultaneously, splenomegaly occurred in all the groups as HbV/rHSA > rHSA > sRBC/rHSA. Histopathologically, the accumulated HbV in the spleen was undetectable by Day 14, but hemosiderin was deposited in slight quantities for both the HbV/rHSA and sRBC/rHSA groups. Considerable amounts of erythroblasts were apparent in the spleens of both the rHSA and the HbV/rHSA groups.

CONCLUSION:  HbVs were phagocytized and degraded in RES, a physiological compartment for the degradation of RBCs, and the elevated erythropoietic activity resulted in the complete recovery of Hct within 7 days in the rat model.
The effects of leukodepletion on the generation and removal of microvesicles and prion protein in blood components
Authors: Krailadsiri Pranee , Seghatchian Jerard , MacGregor Ian , Drummond Olive , Perrin Rachel , Spring Frances , Prescott Robin , Williamson Lorna , Prowse Chris , Anstee David , Turner Marc
Published: March 2006

BACKGROUND:  Universal leukodepletion (LD) has been implemented in the United Kingdom to reduce the risk of transfusion‐transmitted variant Creutzfeldt‐Jakob disease. If LD causes microvesiculation of blood cells, however, potentially infectious membrane‐associated prion could reach the final products.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS:  We have measured microvesicles (MV) derived from red cells (RBC‐MV), platelets (PLT‐MV), and white blood cells (WBC‐MV) and cellular prion protein (PrPc) in blood components produced by four whole‐blood, five RBC, three PLT, and two plasma LD filters and three plateletpheresis techniques.

RESULTS:  RBC‐MV and PLT‐MV were either unaltered or reduced by all processes, with PLT‐MV reduced 10‐fold by RBC LD and greater than 300‐fold by plasma LD. WBC‐MV were reduced or unchanged by RBC and PLT LD and reduced by plasma LD. Whole‐blood filtration appeared to increase MVs derived from granulocytes, but the load in the final components was comparable to that in processed RBCs in additive solution. PrPc was reduced by whole‐blood, RBC, and plasma LD and unchanged by PLT techniques. There were differences between various filters and techniques, which were generally minor compared to the overall effects.

CONCLUSION:  These findings suggest no detrimental effects of LD processes in terms of generation of MVs or PrPc release.
Hints to blood groupers, 1950
Authors: Schmidt Paul J. , Greenwalt Tibor J.
Published: March 2006

Sixty years ago, the premier blood grouping laboratory was that of Robert Race in London. Agglutination tests and blood grouping had provided breakthroughs in immunology, genetics, and the solution of clinical problems. The significance of immunohematology was recognized by the clinical hematology community as a potent force in the expanding field of disorders of the blood and blood‐forming organs. The instructions by Race to his London workers entitled Hints to Blood Groupers provide a picture of the immunohematology laboratory even before automation and differed slightly from the American techniques that derived from Landsteiner. Before agglutination is replaced in the near future by the emergence of molecular methods, the detailed method of a superb laboratory is recorded.
Sterility testing of platelet concentrates prepared from deliberately infected blood donations
Authors: Mohr Harald , Lambrecht Bernd , Bayer Anette , Spengler Hans‐Peter , Nicol Sven‐Boris , Montag Thomas , Müller Thomas H.
Published: March 2006

BACKGROUND: In general the bacterial count in freshly donated blood is low and even lower in the corresponding platelet concentrates (PCs). By use of flow cytometry (FACS) for sterility testing, the reliability of early versus later sampling times was evaluated.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Blood donations were spiked with various numbers ofStaphylococcus epidermidis,Staphylococcus aureus,Bacillus cereus,andKlebsiella pneumoniae. The corresponding PCs were prepared by the buffy‐coat method and stored at 22°C. A 20‐mL sample was collected from each PC directly after preparation and after 8 hours. Samples were stored at 35°C. Sterility testing of both PCs and samples was by FACS analysis at different time points.

RESULTS: All stored PCs were found positive by FACS analysis, with detection times ranging between 8 and 24 hours (K. pneumoniae, B. cereus), 8 and 91 hours (S. aureus), and 144 hours (S. epidermidis). In the samples incubated at 35°C, bacteria were detected after 8 to 19 hours (K. pneumoniae, B. cereus), 8 to 67 hours (S. aureus), and 19 to 43 hours (S. epidermidis). Some of the samples did not contain bacteria.

CONCLUSION: Detection times for slow‐growing bacteria are significantly shortened when PC samples are incubated at 35°C: The numbers of bacteria in freshly prepared PCs may, however, be so low that the samples drawn for sterility testing do not contain a single bacterium. Our results do not support a shortening of the 24‐hour or greater sampling time recommended by the manufacturers of established test systems, because also for consistent detection by FACS, bacteria need to grow in the PCs to sufficient numbers.