bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Early attainment of breastfeeding competence in very preterm infants
Authors: Nyqvist KH
Published: May 2008

Aim: To explore the development of breastfeeding capacity in very preterm infants, as an immature sucking behaviour is often mentioned as a barrier in the establishment of breastfeeding in these infants.

Subjects and methods: A prospective descriptive design study in which mothers of 15 infants, born at gestational ages between 26 and 31 weeks, used the Preterm Infant Breastfeeding Behaviour Scale for daily assessments of their infants' oral motor behaviour in hospital. Semi‐demand feeding with prescription of a total daily volume of milk was practiced during the transition from scheduled to demand feeding.

Results: Breastfeeding was initiated from a postmenstrual age (PMA) of 29 weeks. Obvious rooting, efficient areolar grasp, and repeated short sucking bursts were noted from 29 weeks, and occasional long sucking bursts and repeated swallowing from 31 weeks. The maximum number of consecutive sucks was limited to between 5 and 24 sucks, with a median of 17. Full breastfeeding was attained at a median of 35 weeks, between 32 and 38 weeks. The infants' weight gain when fully breastfed was adequate.

Conclusion: Very preterm infants have the capacity for early development of oral motor competence that it sufficient for establishment of full breastfeeding at a low postmenstrual age.
Histopathological Observations of a Polylactic Acid‐Based Device Intended for Guided Bone/Tissue Regeneration
Authors: Polimeni Giuseppe , Koo Ki‐Tae , Pringle Gordon A. , Agelan Alexis , Safadi Fayez F. , Wikesjö Ulf ME
Published: May 2008

Background: Barrier devices have been shown to support alveolar bone and periodontal regeneration, a procedure also known as guided bone/tissue regeneration (GBR/GTR). Popular demand and clinical convenience have raised an interest in bioresorbable barrier devices. Tissue reactions to such bioresorbable devices are, however, generally not well explored.

Purpose: The objective of this study was to evaluate short‐ and long‐term tissue reactions following implantation of a bioresorbable polylactic acid (PLA)‐based barrier device using a rat model.

Materials and Methods: Twenty‐one young adult male Sprague‐Dawley rats were used. The animals were divided into three groups including 15 animals receiving the PLA device and animals serving as sham surgery (five) or nonoperated (one) controls. Using aseptic techniques, the PLA device was surgically implanted in direct contact with the calvarial bone. Animals receiving the PLA device were sacrificed at 3, 5, 7, and 12 months postsurgery to provide longitudinal histopathological observations of tissue and biomaterials reactions. Control animals were sacrificed at 3 months.

Results: Animals were maintained without adverse events. Sham surgery and nonoperated control animals showed no signs of new bone formation or resorption, or signs of inflammatory reactions in adjoining soft tissues. In contrast, extensive amounts of residual biomaterial with evidence of foreign body reactions and bone resorption were observed in animals receiving the PLA device over 12 months.

Conclusions: The results suggest that the PLA device may induce bone resorbing foreign body reactions. Importantly, the PLA device does not resorb within a 12‐month healing interval. These biomaterials properties may influence new bone formation and maintenance when applying the device for GBR/GTR.
Temporary Implant‐Supported Prosthesis for Immediate Loading According to a Chair‐Side Concept: Technical Note and Results from 37 Consecutive Cases
Authors: Östman Pär‐Olov , Hellman Mats , Sennerby Lars , Wennerberg Ann
Published: May 2008

Background: During the last years, focus has been paid to implant treatment using immediate function protocols, and different approaches to provide patients with temporary constructions have been presented. Most of these techniques involve dental technicians producing the temporary construction, for example, rebuilding existing dentures, acrylic bridges, etc.

Purpose: The purpose of this prospective clinical study was to evaluate the clinical outcome of a chair‐side technique of a cost‐effective temporary prosthesis. Fixture survival rate and risk of temporary bridge failure were analyzed.

Materials and Methods: Thirty‐seven partially or totally edentate patients (18 female and 19 male; mean age: 66.7 years) treated with chair‐side manufactured temporary restorations (QuickBridge™, BIOMET 3i, Palm Beach, Fl, USA) for immediate loading have been evaluated. The prostheses extended from two unit bridges supported by two implants to full‐arch construction supported by six implants. The temporary prostheses were monitored from the day of surgery and delivery to the time of replacement with a permanent prosthetic construction 3 to 6 months later.

Results: No implants were lost during the observation time. One (3%) temporary prosthesis fractured and additional two (6%) loosened during the follow‐up time.

Conclusions: The study indicated that the tested chair‐side concept for manufacturing of temporary prosthesis for immediate loading of dental implants is a viable approach.
The Implant‐Abutment Interface of Alumina and Zirconia Abutments
Authors: Yüzügüllü Bulem , Avci Mehmet
Published: May 2008

Background: Although ceramic and titanium abutments are widely used in clinical practice, the mechanical characterization of the implant‐abutment interface for ceramic abutments has not been evaluated after the dynamic loading.

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to assess the implant‐abutment interface after the dynamic loading of titanium, alumina, and zirconia abutments.

Materials and Methods: Fifteen aluminum oxide, zirconium oxide, and titanium abutments were manufactured by the Procera System® (Nobel Biocare AB, Göteborg, Sweden) and were connected to Ø 3.75 × 13‐mm regular platform implants (MK III, Nobel Biocare AB) secured in a 30° inclined plane. A mechanical testing machine applied compressive dynamic loading between 20 and 200 N at 1 Hz on a standard contact area of copings cemented on abutments for 47.250 cycles. The measurements of microgaps at the implant‐abutment interface from the labial, palatinal, mesial, and distal surfaces of each specimen were undertaken by scanning electron microscope analyses prior to and after the experiments. The data of the microgaps before and after the dynamic loading were statistically assessed using the Wilcoxon signed rank test and the Kruskal–Wallis variance analysis (α = 0.05).

Results: Coping fracture, abutment fracture, or abutment screw loosening or fracture was not detected in any specimen during the entire test period. After the dynamic loading, the titanium abutment control group revealed an increased microgap (3.47 µm) than zirconia (1.45 µm) and alumina (1.82 µm) groups at the palatinal site (p < .05). The mean measurement values at different measurement sites of specimens within and between each abutment group were similar (p > .05).

Conclusion: Owing to their comparable microgap values at the implant‐abutment interface after the dynamic loading, ceramic abutments can withstand functional forces like conventional titanium abutments.
COMPARISON OF COMPUTED RADIOGRAPHY AND CONVENTIONAL RADIOGRAPHY IN DETECTION OF SMALL VOLUME PNEUMOPERITONEUM
Authors: MAROLF ANGELA , BLAIK MARGARET , ACKERMAN NORMAN , WATSON ELIZABETH , GIBSON NICOLE , THOMPSON MARGRET
Published: May 2008

The role of digital imaging is increasing as these systems are becoming more affordable and accessible. Advantages of computed radiography compared with conventional film/screen combinations include improved contrast resolution and postprocessing capabilities. Computed radiography's spatial resolution is inferior to conventional radiography; however, this limitation is considered clinically insignificant. This study prospectively compared digital imaging and conventional radiography in detecting small volume pneumoperitoneum. Twenty cadaver dogs (15–30 kg) were injected with 0.25, 0.25, and 0.5 ml for 1 ml total of air intra‐abdominally, and radiographed sequentially using computed and conventional radiographic technologies. Three radiologists independently evaluated the images, and receiver operating curve (ROC) analysis compared the two imaging modalities. There was no statistical difference between computed and conventional radiography in detecting free abdominal air, but overall computed radiography was relatively more sensitive based on ROC analysis. Computed radiographic images consistently and significantly demonstrated a minimal amount of 0.5 ml of free air based on ROC analysis. However, no minimal air amount was consistently or significantly detected with conventional film. Readers were more likely to detect free air on lateral computed images than the other projections, with no significant increased sensitivity between film/screen projections. Further studies are indicated to determine the differences or lack thereof between various digital imaging systems and conventional film/screen systems.
MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING OF THE NORMAL CANINE THYROID GLAND
Authors: TAEYMANS OLIVIER , DENNIS RUTH , SAUNDERS JIMMY H.
Published: May 2008

The magnetic resonance (MR) imaging features of the normal canine thyroid gland were retrospectively compiled from images acquired in 44 dogs presented for a variety of diseases unrelated to the thyroid gland. The appearance of the thyroid gland on different sequences, including pre‐ and postcontrast T1‐weighted, T2‐weighted, two‐dimensional gradient echo, three‐dimensional T2*‐weighted gradient echo and proton density weighted images, were described in different image planes. The characteristic shape, location, and intensity of thyroid lobes compared with surrounding structures made them easily detectable in all dogs. The most common location of the thyroid lobes was dorsolateral to the trachea with the maximal cross‐sectional area of the lobes located ventral to C2/3 or C3 in more than 85% of the dogs. The majority of the lobes were ovoid on transverse images. An isthmus was seen in one large dog and parathyroid glands could not be seen. The mean maximal thyroid lobe diameter on transverse images was 8.1 mm, being twice the mean diameter of the common carotid artery. Considering the excellent conspicuity and characteristic appearance of the canine thyroid gland, MR imaging can be beneficial in the diagnosis of diffuse thyroid diseases, in differentiating thyroid vs. nonthyroid neck masses and in staging and treatment planning of thyroid tumors in this species.
Histopathological Changes of Placenta Induced by Cyclophosphamide in Rats
Authors: PADMANABHAN Rengasamy , SINGH Shamer
Published: May 2008

The possible role of placental pathology in teratogenesis has not been fully understood. Since cyclophosphamide is a proven teratogen, it was decided to investigate its effect on placental histology. A single dose of cyclophosphamide (20 mg/kg) administered to pregnant rats on day 12 of gestation resulted in various malformations and stunting of fetuses at term. The placentae were significantly (P < 0.001) lighter and their margins contained a patch of necrotic substance. The decidua basalis showed dilatation of blood spaces, hemorrhage and infarction. Giant cells were numerous and the glycogen cells sparce in the basal zone. Vast areas of infarction and necrosis were also evident here. The labyrinths were shorter and often hyalinised. In two cases cysts of considerable size occupied the centre of the labyrinthine zone. The necrotic patch was found to be fibrinoid in nature with and without the association of large giant cells and lymphocytes.
Pyrimethamine Teratogenesis by Short Term Administration in Goettingen Miniature Pig
Authors: YAMAMOTO Yuzuru , OHNISHI Masatoshi , KOKUE Ei‐ichi , HAYAMA Toyoaki , AOYAMA Hiroaki , KANEDA Masahiro , TERAMOTO Shoji
Published: May 2008

Pyrimethamine was mixed with mashed feed and given to pregnant sows of Goettingen miniature pig through a part of the period of organogenesis. A high incidence of the major malformations such as cleft palate, club foot and micrognathia was observed in 13 out of 24 newborns from 5 pregnants which a teratogenic dose (3.6 mg/kg of body weight/day) from day 11 to day 22 of gestation, the first half of the organogenetic period. Only one cleft palate was observed among the 23 newborns from 4 pregnants administered the same dose through the second half of the period. Among the 51 newborns from 10 pregnants which the same dose through the first or second quarter, only 4 newborns showed external major malformations. However, 19 out of 38 live newborns without external major malformations in these groups died within 2 days after birth. Clinical symptoms of these neonatally dead young were similar to splayleg, a naturally occurring functional anomaly in pigs. No internal malformation was revealed by the autopsy of these dead newborns.
Conotruncal Anomalies Induced in Chick Embryos by 2 MeV Neutron Radiation
Authors: KAWAMURA Tsukasa
Published: May 2008

Radiation of 2 MeV neutrons was used to induce conotruncal anomalies experimentally in chick. White leghorn eggs were exposed to a single dose of neutrons ranging from 50 to 250 rads at various stages of the development. Cardiovascular anomalies were found in 209 (40%) of 526 treated embryos; conotruncal anomalies (81/209 or 39%), simple VSD (56/209 or 27%), isolated aortic arch anomalies (69/209 or 33%) and others (3/209 or 1%). The conotruncal anomalies were induced at considerably high incidences by exposures during the 3rd day of incubation and the highest incidence was 74% in the cases malformed by 220 rads. The types of conotruncal anomalies observed were as follows: VSD with pulmonary overriding (52 cases), VSD with aortic overriding (11 cases), DORV (10 cases), truncus arteriosus (6 cases) and complete TGA (2 cases). Sixty (74%) of these cases had aortic hypoplasia, constituting coarctation or interruption complex similar to that seen in man. It is generally thought that the experimental production of complete TGA in chick appears to be impossible when utilizing ordinary teratogenic means. However, neutron radiation could induce this peculiar anomaly in chick.
Environmental Mutagen, Carcinogen and Teratogen Information Department GI Environmental Teratology Information Center
Authors: TANIMURA Takashi
Published: May 2008

A system of rapid and comprehensive access to the literature of developmental toxicity, including teratogenicity, of environmental agents has been developed and operated by the Environmental Teratology Informa‐ tion Center (ETIC). On‐line retrieval services have been provided through TOXLINE and RECON. The ETIC file has accommodated about 31,500 reports on 8720 agents selected from 3000 sources as of November 1, 1983.In this communication, the history and present status of ETIC is introduced and an example is presented on how to utilize the ETIC file by TOXLINE in Japan. ETIC welcomes requests of members of our Society to use the file and also expects to receive more Japanese references since ETIC has a Japanese technologist.
Nonspecific Esterases in the Brain and Amniotic Fluid of Rat Fetuses Following Maternal Exposure to Cyclophosphamide
Authors: CHOUDHURY S. Roy , PADMANABHAN Rengasamy
Published: May 2008

ABSTRACT: Preliminary data are presented on the activity of nonspecific esterases in brain and amniotic fluid of normal and exencephalic fetus of Wistar rats treated with single injection of 20 mg/kg cyclophosphamide on day 13 of gestation. In the experimental animal, a reduction in total esterase activity is observed in the brain (74% of control), while activity in the amniotic fluid shows a 40% increase. Eserine treatment indicates that the low esterase activity in the brain is due to a lack of cholinesterases. Inhibition studies with diisopropylfluorophosphate (DFP) points to the presence of a high proportion of organophosphate‐resistant esterases in the amniotic fluid of both control and experimental animals. Isoelectric focussing on thin layer polyacrylamide gel shows deletion of the fastest migrating cathodal isozyme in the experimental samples of the brain and amniotic fluid in 50% of cases. The significant increase of enzyme activity in the amniotic fluid clearly underlines the future scope for employing nonspecific esterase level as an additional parameter in the prenatal diagnosis of central nervous malformations.
Studies on the Relation between Alkylating Agent‐Induced Chromosomal Aberrations and Embryotoxicity in Mice. II. The Potentiation of Teratogenicity and Clastogenicity of Isopropyl Methanesulfonate, N‐Methyl‐N‐Nitrosourea and Dimethyl Sulfate by Caffeine
Authors: NAGAO Tetsuji , MIZUTANI Masahiro
Published: May 2008

ABSTRACT: The effects of caffeine on embryotoxicity including teratogenicity and clastogenicity of different classes of teratogens were examined in ICR‐mice in order to make clear the relationship between embryotoxicity and induced chromosomal aberrations in embryos. The teratogens used were isopropyl methanesulfonate (IPMS, 100 mg/kg), N‐methyl‐N‐nitrosourea (MNU, 20 mg/kg) and dimethyl sulfate (DMS, 25 mg/kg).

In teratological studies, teratogens were given intraperitoneally on day 12 of gestation and caffeine subcutaneously in five divided doses (100 mg/kg for each) at 6 hours intervals during 0–24 hours following the teratogen treatment. In cyto‐genetical studies, teratogens (ip) were administered to ICR‐mice along with caffeine (sc) at a dose of 200 mg/kg on day 12 of gestation. Embryotoxicity was checked on day 18 of gestation, and clastogenicity at 6, 12, 18 and 24 hours following the co‐administration of these drugs.

The co‐administration of caffeine and any one of these teratogens induced potentiative response in the formation of gross malformations and particularly in the production of chromosomal aberrations. The data obtained suggest the positive association of teratogenicity with clastogenicity of IPMS, MNU and DMS. Excess cell death due to chromosomal aberrations is highly suggestive as one of the mechanisms of embryotoxicity including teratogenicity of these teratogens.
Birth Defects Monitoring in the Tokyo Metropolitan Hospitals: Methods and Some Preliminary Results*
Authors: KONDO Kiyotaro
Published: May 2008

ABSTRACT  All 55,103 neonates, including 808 stillbirths after the 16th gestational week, born in 11 Tokyo Metropolitan hospitals during April 1978 December 1982, were monitored. Neonates with recognizable birth defects within 1 postnatal week were exhaustively collected. 4,006 neonates showed one or more of the defects, but major defects with functional impairments were observed in 698, or 1.3% of the neonates, being identical to the figures in other reports. Mutliple defects totaled 464, including 54 chromosome anomalies and 30 genetic syndromes. Of 3,541 single defects, 3,126 were classifiable by the codes for the birth defects in the International Classification of Diseases. Temporal trends were evaluated with three methods in 17 selected defects including 11 designated by the Clearinghouse. The results were 1) a rise was alway transient and random being followed by a period with the base‐line frequency, the overall trends being stationary, 2) a sharp rise of anencephalus in July, 1982 was due to four cases happened within several kilometers in downtown Tokyo around Koto‐ku area, 3) Polydactyly and syndactyly showed identical results, 4) suitableness of three methods were compared with basically identical results.
Current Status and Perspectives in the Kanagawa Birth Defects Monitoring Program (KAMP)*
Authors: KUROKI Yoshikazu , KONISHI Hiroshi
Published: May 2008

ABSTRACT  The Kanagawa Birth Defects Monitoring Program has been in operation since October 1981 as the first population‐based monitoring system in Japan. By the end of 1983, baseline rates of 48 marker malformations were calculated from 100,000 births. Several biological factors increase the incidence of malformations. They include stillbirth, low birth weight, small for gestational age, consanguinity and multiple birth. In the case of obvious deviations from the baseline rates, artificial factors should be ruled out prior to the decision of true deviations. The accuracy of KAMP seems to be high by the monitor of Down syndrome as an indicator. In order to establish the population‐based program, covering all or nearly all births in a whole country, the following conditions should be satisfied: 1) the adoption of common marker malformations with clear definitions, 2) the standardization of the systems, 3) the standardized data analysis and the follow up procedures of “alarms,” 4) a better classification system of birth defects, 5) the official government sanction and financial support.
Monitoring of Congenital Malformations in Tottori, 1974–1983*
Authors: TAKESHITA Kenzo , ANDO Goro , MAKINO Reiichiro
Published: May 2008

ABSTRACT  The prevalence and distribution of the congenital malformed infants and the neurocutaneous syndrome patients who were born in Tottori Prefecture, Japan between 1974 and 1983 were reported. The average prevalence of 581 cases with congenital malformations at birth was 1.21 per 100 births (live and stillbirths), which was similar to other populations in Japan. The prevalence values of cleft lip, cleft palate and cleft palate with cleft lip in Tottori was somewhat higher than in Kanagawa and Osaka districts. Frequencies of tuberous sclerosis, Sturge‐Weber syndrome and neurofibromatosis in live births were about 1:22,000,1:65,000 and 1:2,200, respectively. These data in Japanese population were considered to be about the same as those reported in Caucasian populations.
Bilateral Cleft Lip Repairs: The Manchester Method and Presurgical Orthodontic Treatment*
Authors: HAMAMOTO Junji
Published: May 2008

ABSTRACT  From 1974 to 1984 we have performed operations on 142 patients with bilateral cleft lip using the Manchester method. Presurgical oral orthodontics were given to 84 patients out of 142. We used a head cap with elastic band and oral appliance which was devised by Dr. J. H. Peat. Experience proves that the earlier presurgical oral orthodontics was begun, the more more satisfactory were the results. Treatment of our cases was started as early as at approximately 4‐6 weeks of age. The average length of treatment was 8 weeks, and the patients were opearated on at the age of 3‐5 months.

Post operative results in almost all of our cases were satisfactory. The advantages were 1) lip with satisfactory lenght, 2) acceptable scar pattern, 3) free prolabium and deep gingiva‐labial sulcus.

However, several problems to be overcome in our cases were remained. These problems appeared severely depending on the degree of congenital deformity. Secondary repair to the extremely depressed nose and short columella was performed at the age of 4‐6 years. In these cases we made a forked flap on the upper lip and elongated a short columella while at the same time repairing the wide cupid's bow.
Prune Belly Syndrome: Report of Twelve Autopsy Cases and Possible Pathogenesis
Authors: KAWAMOTO Kenji , IKEDA Takayoshi , MATSUO Takeshi , MAEDA Hiroshi , OKAMOTO Naomasa , SATOW Yukio , AKIMOTO Naotaka , LEE Juing‐Yi
Published: May 2008

Abstract Twelve autopsy cases (9 males, 3 females) of the prune belly syndrome are presented. Principal anomalies of this syndrome are a prune‐like abdominal feature and a giant bladder. Urethral atresia was observed in most but two cases. Imperforate anus and rectovesical fistula were observed in 8 and 7 cases respectively. Associated anomalies were those which may or may not be embryologically related to the principal anomalies.

As regards the pathogenesis, the authors propose that a primary defect may occur during any developmental stage of the somitic mesoderm, genital tubercle and urethra. In conclusion, the prune belly syndrome may be of spectrum anomalies depending on the stage specificity mainly in the abdominal wall and genito‐urinary organs.
Pathogenesis of a Bisdiamine‐Induced Malformation Complex in Rat Resembling DiGeorge Syndrome
Authors: OKISHIMA Takahiro , OHDO Shozo , HAYAKAWA Kunio , OKAMOTO Naomasa
Published: May 2008

Abstract Administration of the antispermatogenic agent bis‐diamine (N, N'‐bis‐(dichloroacetyl)‐1, 8‐octamethylenediamine) to pregnant rats produced a malformation complex resembling DiGeorge syndrome in man. The malformations consisted of hypoplasia or aplasia of the thymus, persistent truncus arteriosus, tetralogy of Fallot, aberrant subclavian artery and other cardiovascular anomalies, as well as hypoplasia of the parathyroid gland, thyroid gland, and the spleen. The malformation complex appeared with a high incidence when the drug was administered on day 9.5 or day 10 of gestation.

Since the connective tissues of the thymus, aorticopulmonary septum, smooth muscles of the media of the aortic arch artery, and connective tissues of the parathyroid and the thyroid glands, are of neural crest origin, and since the time of their migration is around day 10 of gestation, we postulate that the action of bis‐diamine might be involution of the migration of the neural crest cells and of its pathways.

We further suggest from the findings of persistent atrioventricular canal and hypoplasia of the spleen, that the drug must have also affected the growth of mesenchymal cells, which originate from the endocardial epithelial cells.
Congenital Abnormalities of the Male Genital Organs in the Newly Established TW Rat Strain
Authors: IKADAI Hiroshi , SAKUMA Yuki , SUZUKI Katsushi , IMAMICHI Tomonori
Published: May 2008

Abstract A newly established rat strain named TW showed congenital abnormalities in the male genital organs at about 47% incidence. These abnormalities included the unilateral or bilateral testicular hypoplasia accompanied with ipsilateral aplasia of the epididymis, ductus deferens and gland of ductus deferens. Most commonly these accessories were completely absent but in some cases the lack was partial. The other accessories such as the seminal vesicle, coagulating gland, and prostate were normal. The female genital organs were normal. The genetical analysis revealed that these defects are transmitted by multiple genes with an incomplete penetrace and a threshold effect. The TW rat provides a useful model for studying the developmental process of the male genital system.
The Genetics of Hand Malformations: Updated*
Authors: TEMTAMY Samia A.
Published: May 2008

Abstract The main values of our knowledge of the genetics of birth defects are proper diagnosis and counseling.

A classification of hand malformations on anatomic and genetic grounds was proposed by Temtamy (1966), Temtamy and McKusick (1969, 1978): The ten main categories are (1) Absence, (2) Brachydactyly, (3) Syndactyly, (4) Polydactyly, (5) Symphalangism, (6) Arachnodactyly, (7) Macrodactyly, (8) Carpal/Tarsal synostosis, (9) Congenital ring constrictions, and (10) Contractures.

The hand malformation is either isolated or associated with other organ malformation as a part of syndromes. In the monograph by Temtamy and McKusick (1978), numerous new syndromes were identified, some of which were based on single or few observations.

The paper summerizes the pertinent findings in a computerized literature survey of absence or deficiency malformation as part of synderomes reported between 1977 and 1983.

Analysis of the literature confirmed the identity of previously reported syndromes and added “new” entities.

The originally proposed classification of hand malformations proved to be useful and allowed for easy sorting out of the recent literature and for indentification of new syndromes.
Spina Bifida in Japan 1969‐1975: Geographical and Social Class Variations
Authors: IMAIZUMI Yoko
Published: May 2008

Abstract An analysis of 1,103 fetal and postnatal deaths from spina bifida during 1969‐1975 is presented. The overall birth prevalence rate was 0.75 per 10,000 births and was slightly higher in the southwest than in the northeast of Japan. Social class variation in the prevalence rate during the period was studied. Geographical variation in the prevalence rate of spina bifida is not similar to that of anencephaly, whereas the social class variations in the prevalence rate of the two defects are similar.
Age of Onset and Progress by Ageing in High Myopia
Authors: FUJIKI Keiko , MOROTOMI Kuniko , KABASAWA Kazuyuki , AKAMATSU Tsunehiko , NAKAJIMA Akira
Published: May 2008

AbstractThe amount of refractive errors, visual acuity, fundus findings, age of onset and other relevant data were examined in 614 cases of myopia, at the Department of Ophthalmology in Juntendo University.

Twenty‐seven per cent (27/100 cases) among high myopia (‐15.0D ± 7.5D) with typical chorio‐retinal atrophy and 20% (55/275 cases) of myopia (‐12.7D ± 6.4D) without typical myopic atrophy had onset at 4 yrs old or younger. However, there was no case whose age of onset was 4 yrs old or younger among 239 cases of myopia with 5D or weaker. All of them had onset in 7 yrs old or older.

The average corrected visual acuity became worse as the patient became older, especially in 'high myopia with chorio‐retinal atrophy, it was (0.4‐0.5 already in childhood and about 0.2 in 40 yrs old or older). However, the corrected visual acuity in high myopia without typical myopic atrophy was kept comparatively good (about 0.7 in 40s or younger and 0.4 in 60s or older). Degree of myopia increased significantly by age, but stopped at around the 40s. These facts show that early age of onset of high myopia is very important.
Sensitive Period for Rubratoxin 6‐Induced Malformations in ICR Mice
Authors: SURJONO Tien , SYARIEF Tjitjih , SUDARWATI Sri , OKADA Kenji
Published: May 2008

Abstract Single dose of 0.6 or 1.2 mg/kg of rubratoxin B was administered intraperitoneally into the pregnant S1c: ICR mice on one day between day 6 and day 9 of gestation, and the fetuses were examined on day 18 of gestation. Gross malformations produced were neural tube defects, omphalocele, cleft palate, short or kinky tail, clubfoot and micromelia. Razor blade sections revealed dysgenetic hydrocephaly, microphthalmia, anophthalmia, renal hypoplasia, unilateral absence of kidney and uterine horn hypoplasia, ventricular septal defect (VSD) and apex bifida of the heart. Skeletal specimens showed dislocation, deformity, fusion, splitting or absence of vertebral bodies, fusion of vertebral arches, fused ribs, and scoliosis. Delayed ossification of axial and appendicular skeleton was also noted.

The sensitive periods for the above rubratoxin B‐induced malformations were restricted in the beginning of organogenetic period. No rubratoxin B‐specific type of malformations was found.
Prenatal Diagnosis and Fetal Therapy Utilizing Fetoscope*
Authors: KORESAWA Mitsuhiko
Published: May 2008

Abstract Fetoscopy has not been familiar in Japan, probably due to the low frequency of its major indicated disorders. Recently this technique is drawing the interest by its unique ability to approach to the fetus directly. In this circumstance, fetoscopy itself, the indications, the usage in fetal therapy, and fetal electrocardiogram as an expanded apprication of fetoscopy are presented.
Basic Unit of Statistical Analysis in Behavioral Teratology*
Authors: TACHIBANA Toshiaki
Published: May 2008

Abstract Several issues related to two possible approaches in the data analysis was discussed: Using individual scores (per subject approach) or litter mean scores (per litter approach), as the basic unit of analysis. Correlations among litter mates, and magnitudes of type I error rate distortion when individual scores instead of litter mean scores were: employed, were discussed. It is advisable to assess the dependence of animals among litter mates for the data obtained in the respective studies. Statistical power and magnitude of eta squared associated with the two approaches were discussed. The per litter approach produces more reliable results by aggregation.
Children of Epileptic and Psychotic Mothers*
Authors: TAKESHITA Kenzo , MITO Takashi , KAMASE Harutaka
Published: May 2008

Abstract A comparison study of maternal characteristics in a sample of mentally retarded children and in paired non‐retarded children from epileptic and psychotic mothers matched. for sex, age and living area was done. Thirty‐two children of epileptic mothers and 42 children of psychotic mothers were classified into three and two groups according to the presence of mental retardation, respectively. The frequency of maternal epileptic seizure during pregnancy was significantly higher in the mentally retarded offspring group than in the other two groups. Almost all seizures of the mothers of children with mental retardation were taken for a type of generalized motor seizures. Generalized motor seizures during pregnancy and maternal lower mental condition would be a risk factor of mental retardation in the offspring. An impressive difference between the groups of offsprings of psychotic mothers was observed during the offspring's infancy. About 71 per cent in the group of children with mental retardation was brought up by their mostly psychotic mothers during infancy. Many of the children without mental retardation were raised in foster home care. These facts would imply that some behaviour in the children with mental retardation could be related to postnatal environmental abnormal factors.
A Case Report: Hypertelorism, Microtia, Cleft Palate with a de novo Balanced Chromosome Translocation, t(1q –; 7p+)
Authors: MOTOHASHI Nobuyoshi , KURODA Takayuki , IKEUCHI Tatsuro
Published: May 2008

ABSTRACT One male Japanese patient diagnosed as probable Hypertelorism‐Microtia‐Clefting (HMC) syndrome was presented. In addition to the striking clinical findings including a cleft palate, and eye and ear anomalies, chromosomal analysis revealed a karyotype of 46,XY,t(1q‐;7p+).

The radiographic examinations based on cephalometric analysis have been added to an appreciation of the craniofacial dysmorphology of this patient. The comparative study between the present case and 38 cleft palate patients without other anomalies clearly disclosed characteristic craniofacial dysmorphology of this case, including platybasia, bony orbital hypertelorism, short anterior face, and micrognathia. Particularly, this micrognathia was distinguished by marked antegonial notch, short ramus height, and clockwise rotation resulting in the steep mandible.
Oro‐facial Anomalies*
Authors: IKEDA Takayoshi , TAKASHIMA Hirotada
Published: May 2008

Abstract The purpose of this symposium is to summarize the recent advance in the study of oro‐facial anomalies in human. An understanding of the normal events in the embryonic development of the face facilitates the study of oro‐facial and also cranio‐facial anomalies. Embryological studies have revealed that the neural crest plays a major role in normal development of the face. The deficient formation, migration and proliferation in the neural crest cells and their derivatives around the cephalic region may be involved in defects of these structures. Observations of normal and abnormal human embryos are basically important, and a newly developed manipulation technique of cultured animal embryos and fetuses may provide us an effective information on the teratogenesis. In addition to the facial cleft, a special attention has been paid to the 1st and 2nd branchial syndromes. Associated anomalies with oro‐facial defects, especially those of midline structure including the brain may provide us the knowledge on tissue interaction in the morphogenesis and on therapeutic consideration. Since a higher frequency of cleft lip and palate among Japanese infants was reported, epidemiological data have to be analysed to search etiological factors, i.e., genetic and environmental factors. We realized, in this symposium, we could have a communication between the basic and clinical sciences on oro‐facial anomalies.
Teratogenicity of Anti‐testis Antiserum in Mice
Authors: TAKAYAMA Yoh‐ichi , WATANABE Masatomo , YAMA‐MOTO Masaharu
Published: May 2008

Abstract The teratogenicity of anti‐testis antiserum was confirmed by an experiment using C57BL/6J mice. When the antiserum was administered intraperitoneally to females on day 12.5 of pregnancy, reduction deformity of limbs and cleft palates were produced in the fetuses. Examinations of the internal organs and skeletons revealed no abnormality in the antiserum‐treated mice. Immuno‐histological analysis suggests the possibility that some antigen in the testis basement membrane may be involved.
A Paradoxical Growth of Large Myofibers in Growth‐Arrested Rectus Femoris Muscles of Muscular Dystrophic Mice
Authors: TOTSUKA Tsuyoshi
Published: May 2008

Abstract The hindleg rectus femoris muscles of normal (?/+) and dystrophic (dy/dy) mice of the strain CS7BL/6J‐dy were examined morphometrically on their cross sectional microscopic images. The diameter of dystrophic muscles was similar to that of normal muscles at 11 and 14 days of postnatal age, and increased with age up to 26 days at a slower rate than that of normal muscles, and then stopped increasing. After 90 days of age, it tended to decrease slightly. The number of myofibers per muscle was always much smaller in dystrophic than in normal muscles during a period from 11 to 32 days, and remained almost unchanged in dystrophic muscles during and after the period up to 120 days of age. The mean diameter of the largest fifty myofibers in dystrophic muscles steadily increased, and the diameter‐frequency histogram of these myofibers shifted to the larger diameter, with age up to 70 days even after the diameter of muscles had stopped increasing. This paradoxical growth of a small population of the large or “hypertrophied” myofibers in growth‐arrested muscles of dystrophic mice was discussed in relation not to an abnormal “hypertrophy” preceding degeneration but to a variation in growth capabilities of myofibers greatly shifted to incompetence.
Embryopathy in Genetically Diabetic Mice, Yellow KK, and Its Prevention by Maternal Therapy
Authors: OOSHIMA Yojiro , IHARA Toshio
Published: May 2008

Abstract Embryopathy in yellow KK mice with non‐insulin dependent diabetes mellitus was examined among the conceptuses of females mated at 7, 11, and 13 weeks of age.

The numbers of corpora lutea and implants were comparable in all maternal age groups. Early embryonic deaths were frequently observed in all maternal age groups (37.7 46.4%), but no significant difference was found among the groups. The incidence of late embryonic deaths was significantly higher in 11‐ and 13‐wk‐old dams (25.6% and 28.8%) than in 7‐wk‐old dams (14.4%). Moreover, in 13‐wk‐old dams, but not in 7‐wk‐old dams, a positive correlation existed between maternal plasma glucose levels on day 18 of pregnancy and late embryonic deaths. Fetuses from 13‐wk‐old dams weighed less than those from 7‐wk‐old dams (0.73 g vs 0.86 g).

Yellow KK mice mated at 13 weeks of age were treated with an oral‐hypoglycemic agent, 5‐[4‐(l‐methylcyclohexylmethoxy)benzyl] thiazolidine‐2,4‐dione (ciglitazone), as an 0.1% dietary admixture. Plasma glucose on day 18 of pregnancy was lower in all treated groups (159‐170 mg/dl) than in the untreated control (345 mg/dl). A significant decrease of late embryonic deaths (12.7‐15.6%) and a slight increase of fetal weights (0.79‐0.81 g) were noted when compared with the untreated controls (36.8% and 0.74 g).
Persistence of the Supracardinal Veins in Two Calves
Authors: HIRAGA Takeo , ABE Mitsuo
Published: May 2008

Abstract Malformations of the caudal vena cava were found in two male Holstein‐Friesian calves. Cases 1 and 2 were clinically diagnosed as arthritis and intestinal atresia, respectively. Both calves died soon after birth. Case 1: The common trunk, which consisted of the right and left common iliac veins, ran forward just beneath the vertebral column passing through the aortic hiatus, and then entering the coronary sinus by way of the left azygos vein. The other venous trunk originated from the junction of the right and left renal veins and ran normally thereafter. Reduction of the cervical vertebrae, and hypoplasia of the colon, thymus and hypophysis were also observed. Case 2: The common trunk received a renal vein from the horseshoe kidney, passed through the diaphragm on the right side of the aortic hiatus of normal case and emptied into the cranial vena cava by way of the right azygos vein. The hepatic veins passed separately through the foramen venae cavae and entered the right atrium. An abnormal aorta was detached and hung from the vertebral column. Atresia coli, cryptorchidism and wry tail were also observed. The above findings showed that the left supracardinal vein in Case 1 and the right one in Case 2 had existed during their embryological life.
A Case of Sacral Parasite
Authors: TOKUNAGA Shigeki , IKEDA Takayoshi , MATSUO Takeshi , MAEDA Hiroshi , KUROSAKI Nobuko , SHIMODA Hozumi
Published: May 2008

Abstract A case of sacral parasite is presented. A parasitic body with an incomplete lower limb was attached to the sacrococcygeal region of a female newborn at birth. The twins were easily separated by operation two days after birth. The parasite contained well developed small and/or large intestines, a multilocular cyst and a unilocular cyst. Histologically, the wall of the multilocular cyst consisted of tissues of three germ layers, such as central and peripheral nervous tissues, mature and immature intestine, pancreatic tissue, bronchial cysts, connective tissue, etc. The thick wall of the unilocular cyst consisted of central nervous tissue and connective tissue. The degree of differentiation of these tissues varied considerably. The parasite revealed no organ communication with the autosite. Since the operation, her growth and development have been favorable and no other abnormalities have been found.
Effect of Maternal Treatment with Methylmercury on the Manifestation of Cleft Lip in CL/Fr Mice
Authors: KAJIWARA Yuji , INOUYE Minoru
Published: May 2008

Abstract The interaction between methylmercury teratogenesis and manifestation of cleft lip and palate (CL(P)) of genetic origin was experimentally investigated in CL/Fr mice. Pregnant mice were given methylmercuric chloride orally on day 10 of pregnancy at doses of 5, 10, 15 and 20 mg/kg. Animals were put to death on day 18 of pregnancy and the fetuses were examined for malformations, especially facial anomalies. About 23% of fetuses manifested CL(P) in the control group. After maternal treatment with methylmercuric chloride, the incidence of fetuses with CL(P) did not remarkably change in groups of 5 mg/kg (about 30%) and 10 mg/kg (about 24%), but decreased significantly (p<0.01) in groups of 15 mg/kg (about 12%) and 20 mg/kg (about 12%). The average numbers of both early and late fetal deaths in the mercury‐treated groups were not significantly different from those in the control group (p > 0.05): This suggested that the decreased incidence of fetuses with CL(P) was not attributable to the preferential mortality of embryos with CL(P). The incidence of isolated cleft palate (CP) was about 1, 5,40 and 80% after maternal treatments of 5,10,15 and 20 mg/kg methylmercuric chloride, respectively, showing the distinct threshold. No significant difference in mercury concentration was observed among normal fetuses, fetuses with CL(P) and with CP within any dose group.
Teratogenicity of Tritium Water to Rat Embryos*
Authors: SATOW Yukio , LEE Juing‐Yi , SAWADA Shozo , NAKAMURA Nori
Published: May 2008

Abstract In the purpose to learn the teratogenic effects of tritium, tritiated water of 50, 75, 100, 125 and 150mCi was injected into the abdominal cavity of pregnant rats individually on days 7, 8, 9, 10 and 11 of pregnancy, respectively, and the anomalies that developed were studied on day 18 of pregnancy. The anomalies occurred at the highest frequency in the cases administered with 100mCi on day 9 of pregnancy, the anomalies combined accounting for 81.3 % of the implanted embryos (100% of the surviving embryos). Among them, cardiovascular anomalies accounted for 68.8 % of the implanted embryos (84.6 % of the surviving embryos). The LD50 was 132mCi in cases administered on day 9 of pregnancy.
Centronucleated Myofibers Having Also Peripheral Nuclei in Rectus Femoris Muscles of Muscular Dystrophic Mice
Authors: TOTSUKA Tsuyoshi
Published: May 2008

Abstract The diameter distribution was compared between centronucleated and non‐centronucleated myofibers on a cross‐sectional specimen of the hindleg rectus femoris muscle from muscular dystrophic (dy/dy) mice aged from 17 to 120 days. At any age examined, it was very similar in centronucleated and non‐centronucleated myofibers, and the proportion in number of the former to the latter was so high as about 1/3 to 1 in spite that it was determined on a single cross section of 5 jum thick for each muscle. The histochemical study showed that central nuclei were observable apparently in any type of myofibers stained densely, palely or intermediately with NADH dehydrogenase or PAS. In addition, it was found that a considerable number of centronucleated myofibers had also peripheral nuclei and that the central nuclei tended to migrate neither toward the center nor toward the periphery in the myofiber with age or growth. These findings are inconsistent with the widely‐accepted view that the centronucleated myofibers in dystrophic muscles are the regenerated ones which are abortive.

The pathological implication of the central nucleation was discussed with reference to the bone‐muscle imbalance hypothesis previously postulated by the present author as the pathogenesis of mouse muscular dystrophy.
Effects of H‐2 Histocompatibility Gene Complex on Urethan and Ethylnitrosourea (ENU)‐lnduced Malformations in Mice
Authors: NITO Shinji , OKANIWA Azusa , MORIWAKI Kazuo
Published: May 2008

Abstract The genetic effects of the H‐2 histocompatibility gene complex on the frequencies of urethan and ethylnitrosourea (ENU)‐induced malformations in prenatal fetuses of mice were examined, and a new functional gene linked to the H‐2 complex on chromosome 17 was mapped.

The H‐2 congenic pair strains of mouse, BIO.A and C57BL/10 (BIO), were tested for susceptibility to urethan‐induced external malformations in fetuses. The BIO.A strain expressing the H‐2a haplotype characteristically showed a high susceptibility to urethan‐induced Polydactyly and kinky tail. However, the BIO strain expressing the H‐2b haplotype was resistant to urethan‐induced malformation. The same tendency was observed for ENU‐induced malformations. Thus, susceptibilities to urethan and ENU‐induced external malformation must be affected by a gene linked to the H‐2 complex.

In a mapping study using BIO.A recombinant mouse strains, BIO.A (5R) was sensitive, while BIO.A (2R) and B10.A (4R) were resistant to urethan‐induced external malformations. Variations in the susceptibility to teratogenicity of urethan in BIO.A recombinant strains indicated that a new functional gene located between the H‐2 S region and the Upg‐1 locus on chromosome 17 was involved in regulation of susceptibility.
An Autopsy Case of Tracheal Agenesis with Broncho‐esophageal Fistula
Authors: SUGIYAMA Eiichiro , IKEDA Takayoshi , MAEDA Hiroshi , MATSUO Takeshi , MATSUMOTO Masaru
Published: May 2008

Abstract True incidence of this malformation is probably greater than that reported since the definitive diagnosis has been made at autopsy in most cases. Various hypotheses on the pathogenesis of tracheal agenesis have been proposed but they are still controversial.

In this report, we present a case of tracheal agenesis with a broncho‐esophageal fistula and discuss the formal genesis.