bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Distribution of collagen type IV α1–6 chains in human normal colorectum and colorectal cancer demonstrated by immunofluorescence staining using chain‐specific epitope‐defined monoclonal antibodies
Authors: Oka Yuko , Naito Ichiro , Manabe Koji , Sado Yoshikazu , Matsushima Hiroshi , Ninomiya Yoshifumi , Mizuno Motowo , Tsuji Takao
Published: March 2003

Background and Aim: Loss of basement membrane (BM) components, such as type IV collagen, has been demonstrated in colorectal cancer, but the fine diversity of the assembly of α (IV) chains, the composition of type IV collagen, and alterations in the collagen have not been fully analyzed. Here, we defined immunohistochemically the expression of α1–6 (IV) chains in colorectal cancer tissues and adjacent normal mucosa by the use of chain‐specific monoclonal antibodies.

Methods: Tissue samples of tumor and adjacent normal mucosa obtained from patients with colorectal adenocarcinoma were stained with chain‐specific monoclonal antibodies raised against synthetic peptides of individual α (IV) chains using an indirect immunofluorescence method.

Results: In the normal mucosa, α1 (IV), α2 (IV), α5 (IV), and α6 (IV) were found in the BM‐delineating mucosal epithelium and the gland crypts, whereas α3 (IV) and α4 (IV) were limited to the BM of the luminal surface epithelium. In contrast, staining of α3–6 (IV) was rarely observed in the BM of cancer cells. Staining of α1 (IV) and α2 (IV) was reduced or lost from the cancer BM in relation to the degree of tumor differentiation: continuous staining in well‐differentiated portions, discontinuous staining in moderately differentiated portions, and absence of staining in poorly differentiated portions.

Conclusions: Our findings indicate that type IV collagen expression is altered in the BM of colorectal cancer as a result of changes of α (IV) chain expression, particularly α1 (IV) and α2 (IV), in relation to the degree of tumor differentiation.

© 2002 Blackwell Publishing Asia Pty Ltd
Minimal expression of the proto‐oncogene int‐2 encoded protein in a series of colorectal carcinomas
Authors: Papanikolaou Ioannis S , Lazaris Andreas C , Kavantzas Nikolaos , Davaris Panayiotis S
Published: March 2003

Background: Int‐2 (fibroblast growth factor‐3) is a gene that belongs to the fibroblast growth factor gene family. It has been implicated in the carcinogenesis of several types of cancer, including esophageal squamous cell carcinoma, breast, head, and neck and lung carcinomas; but no firm data on its biological activity regarding neoplasms arising from the glandular epithelia of the gastrointestinal tract exists.

Methods: In the present immunohistochemical study, we investigated the presence of int‐2 encoded protein in a panel of 80 cases of colon carcinoma of various stages, grades and sizes. A sheep antihuman int‐2 antibody was applied to paraffin‐embedded tissue sections from the tumor samples. The percentage of int‐2 immunostaining in the positively stained specimens was evaluated by image analysis.

Results: Int‐2
was positively detected in only four tumors (i.e. 5% of the cases examined). All immunopositive cases were moderately differentiated tumors; the adjacent mucosa did not express
int‐2 protein. The relevant patients were male.

Conclusion: These findings suggest that the role of int‐2 in colorectal carcinogenesis is probably a limited one.
Evolution of hypoxemia in patients with severe cirrhosis
Authors: Colle Isabelle , Langlet Philippe , Barrière Eric , Heller Jörg , Rassiat Emmanuel , Condat Bertrand , Carayon Alain , Valla Dominique , Moreau Richard , Lebrec Didier
Published: March 2003

Background and Aim: Hypoxemia is common in patients with cirrhosis but the natural history of this syndrome is unknown. The aim of this study was to follow a series of patients with cirrhosis and to compare patients with and without hypoxemia to determine their risk of complications and survival rate.

Methods: Fifty‐eight consecutive Child–Pugh C patients with cirrhosis were included and followed up for 1–18 months. Blood gas measurements and plasma endothelin levels were measured in all patients. Blood gas measurements were repeated in 34 patients.

Results: Hypoxemia was present in 35 patients (60%) (alveolar‐arterial oxygen (AaO2) gradient > 20 mmHg) but none had pulmonary symptoms. There was no significant difference in liver tests and plasma endothelin levels between hypoxemic and non‐hypoxemic patients. The occurrence of variceal bleeding and survival rate was not significantly different between the two groups. The AaO2 gradient worsened in nine patients and normalized in six of the hypoxemic patients. The AaO2 gradient increased to more than 20 mmHg in seven non‐hypoxemic patients. There was no relationship between AaO2 gradient changes and Child–Pugh score grade changes.

Conclusion: Asymptomatic hypoxemia is common in patients with severe cirrhosis but it is not a predictive factor of short‐term complications or mortality. These results should be considered when deciding on liver transplantation.
Late hemodynamic changes following controlled hemorrhage and volume restitution with blood or Haemaccel in anesthetized portal hypertensive rats
Authors: HILZENRAT NIR , YAARI ARIEH , SIKULER EMANUEL
Published: March 2003

Background and Aim
: In portal hypertensive rats, hemorrhage and acute volume restitution with Haemaccel induced increased cardiac output and portal venous inflow. In the present study, the late hemodynamic effects of this procedure were explored.

Methods
: Portal hypertension was induced by portal vein constriction. Blood was withdrawn 11.2 ± 3.2 days later, at a rate of 0.3 mL/min, for 15 min, followed by 15 min of stabilization. Haemaccel or blood were infused at the same rate and volume used for withdrawal. Hemodynamic measurements were performed after 24 h, using radioactive microspheres. Viscosity was measured with an Ostwald viscometer. Vascular hindrance was calculated as resistance/viscosity ratio.

Results
: Blood viscosity of the Haemaccel group (n = 11), was lower than in the blood group (n = 11): 2.7 ± 0.2 versus 4.0 ± 0.4 (P < 0.01). Arterial pressure, cardiac output, peripheral resistance, portal pressure, portal venous inflow and splanchnic arteriolar resistance were not significantly different. Splanchnic arteriolar and portocollateral hindrance were higher in the Haemaccel group (11.7 ± 5.3 and 1.5 ± 0.6 vs 7.7 ± 3.0 and 0.9 ± 0.4 mmHg × min × 100 gram body weight/mL, respectively, P < 0.05).

Conclusion
: In portal hypertensive rats, vital organs perfusion, 24 h after hemorrhage and isovolemic volume restitution with Haemaccel and blood, was similar. However, in Haemaccel‐transfused animals, a reduction in vascular hindrance, indicating vasoconstriction, was observed in the splanchnic organs, which drain into the portal circulation. Vasoconstriction of the portocollateral vascular bed was observed as well. We suggest that slow‐rate volume replacement during a portal‐hypertensive‐related bleeding episode enables hemodynamic adaptation to occur. Thus, undesirable hyperdynamic changes, which may aggravate secondary bleeding, are attenuated.

© 2002 Blackwell Publishing Asia Pty Ltd
c‐kit Gene mutation at exon 17 or 13 is very rare in sporadic gastrointestinal stromal tumors
Authors: KINOSHITA KAZUO , ISOZAKI KOJI , HIROTA SEIICHI , NISHIDA TOSHIROU , CHEN HUI , NAKAHARA MASANORI , NAGASAWA YUTAKA , OHASHI AKIKO , SHINOMURA YASUHISA , KITAMURA YUKIHIKO , MATSUZAWA YUJI
Published: March 2003

Background and Aim:  Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST) are the most common mesenchymal tumors of the human gut. They frequently have gain‐of‐function mutations of the c‐kit gene, which encodes a receptor, tyrosine kinase. The mutations were found at exon 11 in most cases, and either at exon 9 or at exon 13 in rare cases. Recently, we found a family with multiple GIST and a gain‐of‐function mutation at exon 17. The family was the first reported GIST case with c‐kit gene mutation at exon 17 including sporadic GIST. Although we previously reported that the c‐kit gene mutation at exon 17 was not detected in 124 sporadic GIST by single‐strand conformation polymorphism (SSCP) analysis, the mutation at exon 17 observed in the familial GIST was detectable by the use of direct sequencing but not by our SSCP method. In the present study, we examined the mutations at exon 17 and exon 13 by using direct sequencing.

Methods:  Genomic DNA was extracted from formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded GIST tissues. We could obtain 143 sporadic GIST cases appropriate for DNA analysis at exon 17 and 141 at exon 13. Exons 17 and 13 were amplified by using polymerase chain reaction and direct sequencing was conducted.

Results:  No mutation was found at exon 17, and only one case with the mutation at exon 13 was observed. The GIST with the mutation at exon 13 was large and showed frequent mitosis, and the patient died of the recurrent GIST 3 years after the first operation.

Conclusion:  The mutation at exons 17 or 13 was considered to be very rare in sporadic GIST.
Child injury mortality in New Zealand 1986–95
Authors: Kypri K , Chalmers Dj , Langley Jd , Wright Cs
Published: March 2003

Objectives: Injury has been described as ‘the last major plague of the young’. We provide an epidemiological description of injury, as a leading cause of death in New Zealand, and identify options for prevention.

Methods: We identified all deaths due to any cause for the period 1986–95 from the national data and calculated the potential years of life lost for each death. For the same period, we identified all injury deaths for children aged 0–14 years. Causes of injury were examined in four age groups.

Results: In the population as a whole, injury was the fourth leading cause of death and the leading cause of potential years of life lost. Injury killed children at the rate of 16.8 per 100 000 person‐years. The victims were predominantly male (62%) and 52% were under 5 years of age. In infancy (< 1 year of age), suffocation was the leading cause of injury mortality. From 1 to 14 years of age, motor vehicle traffic incidents were the leading cause of mortality.

Conclusions: Motor vehicle traffic incidents, drowning, suffocation and suicide stood out as areas with the greatest potential for reducing child injury mortality. A number of existing prevention strategies show promise (e.g. child restraints), others are inadequately implemented (e.g. swimming pool fencing) or are of unknown efficacy (e.g. government suicide prevention policies). Strategies to reduce infant suffocation and child non‐traffic pedestrian deaths remain to be developed and tested.
Clinical predictors of abnormal computed tomography scans in paediatric head injury
Authors: Ng SM , Toh EM , Sherrington CA
Published: March 2003

Objective:  To evaluate whether clinical features associated with head injury in children can be correlated with an abnormal computed tomography (CT) scan.

Methodology:  Three hundred and eleven children aged 14 years or younger admitted with a diagnosis of acute head injury were studied retrospectively.

Results:  A Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score of 12 or lower and the presence of focal neurological deficits were significant predictors of an abnormal CT scan. Ninety‐five per cent of those with abnormal CT scans and 100% of those with intracranial injury could be identified by the presence of one or more of the nine clinical findings, particularly by a GCS score of 12 or lower, and the presence of focal neurological deficits. Identification was also possible to a lesser degree by loss of consciousness, ataxia, amnesia, drowsiness, headache, seizure or vomiting.

Conclusion:  Use of CT scans can be limited to children with ongoing specific symptoms and/or focal neurological signs. The implementation of guidelines in the management of head injuries in children could have a substantial effect on clinical practice and health‐care costs.
Low molecular weight heparin for neonatal thrombosis
Authors: Shama A , Patole SK , Whitehall JS
Published: March 2003

Abstract:  The clinical course of a term neonate (birthweight 3.14 kg) who developed thrombosis of the left common and internal iliac veins on day 21 following recovery from Streptococcus mitis septicemia, with shock diagnosed on day 13, is reported. Subcutaneous low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) was commenced (1.5 mg/kg 12 hourly for 10 days) after 13 h of standard heparin infusion, due to difficulties in securing a peripheral venous access. The inflammation of the left leg was completely resolved by day 5 of LMWH therapy. Prothrombin time, activated prothrombin time and fibrinogen levels were within normal limits during LMWH therapy. Treatment‐related side effects, such as thrombocytopenia and bleeding tendency were not noted. Doppler studies 6 weeks after discharge home on day 33 revealed complete resolution of the thrombus. Apart from septicaemia and shock, the presence of an indwelling central venous catheter and a history of untreated maternal diabetes were additional risk factors for thrombosis. Because it is as effective as standard heparin, LMWH may be a therapeutic option for thrombosis in high‐risk neonates, particularly given its ease of administration by the subcutaneous route, predictable pharmacokinetics and reduced incidence of adverse effects such as bleeding complications.
Paediatric flexible bronchoscopy*
Authors: Masters IB , Cooper P
Published: March 2003

Abstract:  Flexible bronchoscopy is an emerging diagnostic, therapeutic and supportive procedure used in paediatric respiratory medicine. Despite the improvements in instruments and anaesthetic support for this procedure, supervised training, strict quality‐control measures and ongoing research are essential to ensure standards of safe practice and judicial use of the procedure.
Infant‐furniture‐related injuries among preschool children in New Zealand, 1987−1996
Authors: Morrison L , Chalmers DJ , Parry ML , Wright CS
Published: March 2003

Objective:  To describe the epidemiology of infant‐furniture‐related fatalities and hospitalizations in New Zealand, for children aged 0−4 years.

Methods:  Infant‐furniture‐related deaths and hospitalizations were selected from the New Zealand Health Information Service databases for the 10‐year period 1987−1996. Intentional injuries were excluded.

Results:  Forty‐three fatalities were identified. Twenty‐two fatalities (51%) occurred in cots, while 13 (30%) occurred in beds. Other products involved were prams, push chairs, high chairs, car seats, portable cots and walkers. A total of 1679 infants were hospitalized through infant‐furniture‐related injuries. Increasing trends in hospitalizations for baby walkers, beds and bunks were observed.

Conclusions:  On average, four infants die each year from injuries related to infant furniture, and hospitalizations from injuries associated with infant furniture use are increasing. Mandatory standards are one measure to reduce these numbers, but education is also necessary.
Early‐onset neonatal group B streptococcal infections in New Zealand 1998−1999
Authors: Grimwood K , Darlow BA , Gosling IA , Green R , Lennon DR , Martin DR , Stone PR
Published: March 2003

Objective:  To determine in New Zealand infants the attack rates, risk factors, preventive policies, strain serotype and antibiotic susceptibilities of early‐onset neonatal group B streptococcus (GBS) infection.

Method:  A 2‐year prospective active surveillance study was conducted in New Zealand’s 19 neonatal units. Cases had to present within 48 h of delivery, be unwell, possess abnormal haematological indices and have GBS isolated from sterile sites.

Results:  Of the 112 402 infants born in New Zealand during 1998−1999, 56 had early‐onset GBS infection, an attack rate of 0.5 per 1000 live births (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.38, 0.65). Seven had meningitis and there was one death (case fatality rate of 1.8%; upper 95% CI 9.5%). Univariate analysis identified young maternal age, parity, preterm labour, prolonged membrane rupture, maternal fever and assisted delivery as risk factors. Preventive policies for GBS were reported by 14 (74%) obstetric centres associated with neonatal units. Of the 56 cases, five (9%) were born to mothers receiving intrapartum antibiotics, 32 (57%) had mothers with risk factors but were not treated with antibiotics, and 19 (34%) were born to mothers without identifiable risk factors for GBS prevention. Serotypes Ia and III predominated, while two isolates were resistant to erythromycin and/or clindamycin.

Conclusions:  Rates of early‐onset GBS infection are similar to other countries following the introduction of prevention policies. Further reductions are possible with full implementation of these guidelines. Meanwhile, emergence of antibiotic resistance complicates the management of women with penicillin allergy. Vaccine development therefore remains a priority.
An audit of open and laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair
Authors: Eno Louise M , Spigelman Allan D
Published: March 2003

Abstract A retrospective case review to describe current practices and outcomes of patients undergoing inguinal hernia repair was undertaken in a principal referral hospital (John Hunter Hospital, Newcastle, New South Wales). The participants were patients who had elective laparoscopic or open inguinal hernia repair between 1 June 1997 and 31 May 1998. The main outcome measures were duration of surgery, type of anaesthesia, use of antibiotics, length of stay, postoperative complications, analgesic administration, and costs. Laparoscopic repair was advantageous in terms of length of stay and use of analgesia, but at a higher in theatre financial cost. Low rates of day stay surgery and use of local anaesthesia, and a high rate of antibiotic administration were apparent. It was concluded that local surgical practice has adopted some but not all advances described in the literature. Performance of a more expensive hernia repair in some patients may mitigate against performance of any repair in others.
Eradicating Helicobacter pylori in patients with a past history of peptic ulcer: Is the juice worth the squeeze?
Authors: Duggan Anne , Bilku Jas , Ledger Keith , Scaffardi Robert , Hawkey Christopher J
Published: March 2003

Abstract The efficacy of Helicobacter pylori eradication for H. pylori associated duodenal ulcer disease is beyond dispute. However, little attention has been paid to how feasible it is in primary care to undertake H. pylori eradication for patients with a past history of peptic ulcer disease. Patients identified by computer search of three general practices with a documented history of peptic ulcer disease were invited to attend for H. pylori testing and eradication therapy if H. pylori positive. A total of 101 patients were identified from a combined practice size of 24 780 of whom 34 were eligible for testing. Twenty‐one per cent (seven patients) declined testing, 3% (one patient) refused therapy and another 21% (seven patients) were H. pylori negative. Helicobacter pylori eradication was highly successful (95%) and had an effect on prescription and reconsultation rates at 12 months. Eradicating H. pylori in patients with a past history of peptic ulcer disease not associated with non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drug ingestion is a challenging goal in general practice.
Grazing by a resident macrozooplankton community and non‐resident Daphnia carinata King: A preliminary in situ incubation study
Authors: Kobayashi T. , Church A. , Hardiman S. , Gallagher L.
Published: March 2003

A 24 h incubation study was conducted in situ in Manly Dam reservoir, Sydney, Australia. The study aimed to evaluate the relative effectiveness of grazing on phytoplankton by a resident macrozooplankton community, dominated by the cladoceran Ceriodaphnia and some copepods, in comparison with grazing by added, non‐resident Daphnia carinata in the absence of the resident macrozooplankton community. Although there was some variability in the measured grazing rates among incubation bottles (volume: 1.28 L), D. carinata with a mean body size of 30.8 μg dry weight were more efficient grazers than the reservoir macrozooplankton community with a mean body size of 2.5 μg dry weight. The weight‐specific clearance rate of D. carinata was 2–65 times higher than that of the resident reservoir community for five taxa of reservoir phytoplankton examined. In comparing the evidence from the literature on the limited ability of D. carinata to graze on cyanobacteria, a management strategy using D. carinata for the reduction of phytoplankton biomass may need to be considered separately from one designed to specifically control undesirable taxa, such as the cyanobacteria Microcystis and Anabaena.
Plant–metal interactions in contaminated freshwater sediments of the Fly River Flood Plain, Papua New Guinea: Copper
Authors: Yaru Benedict T. , Buckney Rodney T. , Rau Monica T.
Published: March 2003

Sediments, water and 23 species of rooted, emergent and submerged aquatic macrophytes were sampled from eight different off‐river water‐bodies and flood plains (raunwaras) in the lower middle Fly River to examine the plant‐metal interaction in this mining impacted region. Plant samples obtained from contaminated sites generally showed increased metal concentration compared with the same species from uncontaminated sites. Mean copper concentrations observed for monocots were 7.56±6.05, 11.9±10.5, 15.0±10.7 mg kg−1 Cu (dry weight), corresponding to 0–70, 70–500 and 500–1000 mg kg−1 Cu in sediments. Similarly, dicot copper concentrations were 10.8±7.8, 26.6±15.2, 34.2±24.1 for 0–70, 70–500 and 500–1000 mg kg−1 Cu, respectively. The plants were distinctly grouped into monocots and dicots, with copper concentration in dicots significantly (P < 0.005) higher than in monocots. Copper concentrations in various plant parts appeared to be different from each other, however this trend was not significant. The following general trend was evident only for Nelumbo nucifera (significant at P < 0.01); seeds > fruits > flowers > petioles > stems > leaves. Species differences in copper content were observed to be significant for both monocots (P < 0.0005) and dicots (P < 0.05). Sediment copper concentrations, 266±120 mg kg−1 Cu (moderate impact) and 889±136 mg kg−1 Cu (severe impact) reflect the magnitude of copper‐rich sediment deposition, with sites closer to the main channel with higher concentrations than sites further away. Other sediment variables such as pH (r = 0.13 P < 0.05), Eh (r = 0.13 P < 0.05) and sediment organic matter (r = −0.13, P < 0.05) correlate with plant copper, confirming the various roles these variables play in the speciation, mobilization and availability of copper to aquatic macrophytes. Dissolved copper correlated poorly with plant copper. However, dissolved copper was found to correlate well with organic matter and particulate sulphur, confirming the existence of organic matter‐Cu and CuS complexes.
Total bacterial populations in three lentic water bodies of the Colombian Andes using the epifluorescence technique
Authors: Canosa Amparo , Pinilla Gabriel
Published: March 2003

The epifluorescence technique was used to quantify the total bacterial population in two dams (Neusa and Prado) and in a natural lagoon (Fúquene), which have different geographical locations and physicochemical characteristics. Bacterial abundance was similar in the three water‐bodies (8.4 × 108 cells L–1), but the density of plateable heterotrophs was always lower (1.4 × 106 CFU L–1) when obtained by the plate count method. Results obtained during validation of the epifluorescence technique show: (i) that there are no statistically significant differences between counts of samples fixed in the field and unfixed samples; (ii) that the median count of samples fixed and observed periodically over a period of 8 months was similar; (iii) that plate counts underestimate the population; and (iv) that epifluorescence counts were similar in the three water‐bodies studied, despite their different ecological conditions.
Biodiversity characteristics of small high‐altitude tropical man‐made reservoirs in the Eastern Rift Valley, Kenya
Authors: Mwaura Francis , Mavuti Kenneth M. , Wamicha Wellington N.
Published: March 2003

The biodiversity characteristics in eight small (0.065–0.249 km2) public man‐made reservoirs in the central part of the Eastern Rift Valley, Kenya, were studied between 1995 and 1998. A total of 71 phytoplankton species belonging to approximately 50 taxa were identified. Chlorophytes and cyanobacteria dominated the crop. The dominant taxa included Botryococcus, Syunura, Microsystis, Anabaena, and Cosmarium. A total of over 40 zooplankton species were identified. The community was composed mainly of crustacea, rotifers and protozoa. The most dominant group was Keratella but Brachionus and Nauplius were equally abundant. The diversity and abundance of benthic invertebrates was not high, and only 18 species were identified throughout the study period with the range of species number being 1–7 per reservoir. The benthic fauna was mainly composed of Lumbriculidae and Chironomid worms. A total of six monthly bird counts found an average of 60 birds per reservoir, and a total of 49 species was identified. Ducks, geese and coots dominated the waterfowl, especially during the dry season. Large‐scale breeding by Black‐headed Heron (Ardea melanocephala) and Little Egret (Egretta garzetta) was observed in one of the sites, and other species were also breeding in the reservoirs. The population of waterbirds in reservoirs was closely related to the biomass of benthic invertebrates, and the findings of the study indicate that the structure and dynamics of life forms within small man‐made reservoirs can serve as excellent sensors and indicators of the state of watershed health.
Great Lakes' contaminants reduce sperm production and fertilizing ability in mice
Authors: Chou Karen , Lin Chang‐Yi , Huang Andrew , Inglis Rochelle , Lin Shirley
Published: March 2003

The long‐term effects of Great Lakes' contaminants on male reproductive performance resulting from lactational and dietary exposure were investigated. Female C57BL/6 J mice (F‐0) were mated with DBA/2 J male mice to produce B6D2‐F1 offspring. Dams (F‐0) were fed one of three treatment diets during lactation. The three treatment diets were: (i) diet C, containing lab chow and fish oil; (ii) diet I, containing 60% Iowa carp and 40% lab chow; and (iii) diet G, containing 60% Great Lakes' carp and 40% lab chow. Diet C served as a lab‐chow control treatment, while diet I served as a fish‐diet control treatment. Diet G contained 2500 µg of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and 300 µg of 1,1‐dichloro‐2,2‐bis‐[p‐chlorophenyl]ethylene (4,4′‐DDE) per kilogram of feed. The offspring (F‐1) were continued on their respective maternal treatment diets from weaning until termination. Greater neonatal mortality and lesser body weights were observed in the F‐1 male mice on diet G. Lesser fecundity was observed in one‐year‐old F‐1 male mice on diet G following pairing with non‐treated female mice. The sperm concentration of F‐1 male mice on diet G was less than 30% of that of mice on diets C and I. The in vitro fertilizing ability of the sperm decreased to 10% of that of mice on the two control diets. Sperm motility, velocity, linearity and amplitude of lateral head (ALH) displacement were also decreased in 15‐month‐old F‐1 male mice on diet G.
High‐performance liquid chromatography‐bioassay profiles of endocrine disrupters discharged from point and non‐point pollution sources in Lake Biwa basin
Authors: Matsui Saburo , Lee Byung‐Cheol , Kawami Fumihira , Shimizu Yoshihisa , Matsuda Tomonari
Published: March 2003

Toxic pollution loading from both point and non‐point sources in Lake Biwa should be further reduced. In order to tackle toxicity problems, it is necessary to analyse characteristics of toxic pollution. We have developed a new profiling technique to display toxic distributions of endocrine disrupters in complex mixtures of environmental samples, using high‐performance liquid chromatography in combination with yeast bioassays. We have applied this technique to the major point and non‐point pollution sources in the Lake Biwa basin, that is, to municipal sewage‐treatment water (point) and road dust (non‐point). The dominant oestrogenic chemical in sewage‐treatment water was 17 β‐estradiol. The extracts from screened road dust showed arylhydrocarbon‐receptor binding activity (AhR–ligand activity), with much of this located in smaller particles of sifted dust. There were at least seven major AhR–ligand peaks in the road‐dust sample.
Inflow and outflow of agricultural chemicals in Lake Biwa
Authors: Sudo Miki , Okubo Takuya , Kunimatsu Takao , Ebise Senichi , Nakamura Masahisa , Kaneki Ryoichi
Published: March 2003

The annual pesticide inputs and outputs crossing the boundary of Lake Biwa were estimated. The inputs were calculated from continuous observations in four rivers flowing into Akani Bay, and from simultaneous observations in 65 influent rivers. The annual losses of pesticide from the watershed to Lake Biwa were 1.7% for esprocarb, 4.8% for mefenacet, 2.3% for thiobencarb, 3.7% for molinate, 9.4% for simetryn and 13.0% for isoprothiolane. The outputs from the lake were estimated from weekly observations in the Seta River. The loss of pesticides discharged downstream through the Seta River, compared with the amount applied, were estimated to be 0.9% for esprocarb, 3.2% for mefenacet, 0.5% for thiobencarb, 1.3% for molinate, 10.0% for simetryn and 5.7% for isoprothiolane. Pesticide outputs generally decreased to 30–80% of the input amounts, although simetryn was retained in the lake without substantial elimination.
Effects of plant community composition and exposure to wave action on invertebrate habitat use of Lake Huron coastal wetlands
Authors: Burton Thomas M. , Stricker Craig A. , Uzarski Donald G.
Published: March 2003

Invertebrate communities from different coastal marsh‐plant communities were compared along wave‐exposure gradients using data from 1994, 1998 and 1999. Data were subjected to correspondence analyses to search for patterns in invertebrate communities in relation to plant‐community structure and wave exposure. In 1994, quantitative plant‐ and sediment‐invertebrate samples were taken from nine habitats: four from inland, subsurface‐connected marshes and five from littoral, emergent marshes. In 1998, sweep‐net samples were taken from 13 plant communities: six on the exposed and seven on the protected side of an island. In 1999, 2–3 plant communities/sites were sampled with sweep nets from four sites around the Bay so that intersite differences between inner, less‐exposed and outer, more‐exposed habitats could be examined. In all three studies, correspondence analyses separated inland, protected or inner sites from littoral, exposed or outer sites, suggesting differences in invertebrate‐community structure. For example, Hydracarina and Asellidae occurred in large numbers in inland sites, but were less common or absent from exposed, littoral sites. Littoral marshes also separated along an exposure gradient with Tanytarsini and Orthocladiinae collectors of organic particles occurring in very high numbers in outer, exposed areas where organic particles from the pelagic zone entered the marsh. Certain plant‐community types clustered together (e.g. wet meadow and Scirpus) while others, such as Typha, stands clustered according to exposure to waves suggesting the importance of both plant‐community structure and wave exposure in determining invertebrate‐community structure. We present a conceptual model that suggests that invertebrates in Great Lakes' marshes are distributed along gradients of decreased mixing of pelagic water and increases in sediment organic matter from outer to inner marsh and between littoral and adjacent inland marshes. Some invertebrates do best on one end of these gradients, while the majority are generalists found across habitat types.
Intradural prepontine growth: Giant ecchordosis physaliphora or extraosseous chordoma?
Authors: Rodríguez Luis , Colina José , López Julio , Molina Omaira , Cardozo José
Published: March 2003

An unusual case of a 54‐year‐old woman who presented with a one‐and‐a‐half year history of dizziness and in whom neuroimaging studies revealed an intradural prepontine growth without radiological evidence of bone involvement, is reported. A marked histological resemblance to both ecchordosis physaliphora and chordoma was observed. The medical literature concerning similar lesions is reviewed.
Untangling Alzheimer's disease from fibrous lesions of neurofibrillary tangles and senile plaques
Authors: Mori Hiroshi
Published: March 2003

Neuropathological evidence suggests that the two fibril lesions of neurofibrillary tangles (NFT) and senile plaques are the major findings in brain tissue of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and that their occurrence is strongly associated with the symptoms of dementia. Genetic findings have indicated that the pathological molecules from the lesions function as causal agents. There is little evidence, however, to directly indicate that fibril lesions themselves kill neuronal cells in vivo. In spite of such limitations it is important to consider the molecular events involved in AD etiology. In this review of the contribution of Japanese neuropathologists to studies of AD, I will introduce briefly their work and highlight some current topics for consideration on the etiology of AD, and the basis of cell death, and will offer my perspective on outstanding conflicting issues.
Autopsy case of thanatophoric dysplasia: Observations on the serial sections of the brain
Authors: Yamaguchi Katsuyuki , Honma Koichi
Published: March 2003

The neuropathological findings in an autopsy case of thanatophoric dysplasia (TD) with serial sections of the brain are described here. This patient was a female infant, born at 33 weeks gestation, who died on day 1. Skeletal anomalies, consisting of short limbs, a small thorax, short ribs, thick cortical vertebral body substance and sternum substance, and hypoplastic lungs, were compatible with typical phenotypic features of TD. The brain weighed 370 g, showing a cloverleaf megalencephaly. A computerized 3‐D reconstruction technique visualized clearly abnormal deep sulci arranged perpendicular to the neuraxis on the inferior surface of the temporal lobe, and peculiar configurational changes of the lateral ventricle. In particular, the inferior horn showed an unusual complex form. Dysgenetic changes were largely located in the anterior temporal lobe as follows: cortical polymicrogyria; leptomeningeal heterotopia with discontinuity of the subpial basement membrane; serpentine arrangement of pyramidal cells of the cornu ammonis (CA)1 of the hippocampus; hypoplastic dentate gyrus; hyperplasia of the amygdaloid body; and heterotopic nodules of neuroblasts or glioblasts in the periventricular white matter. Apart from the temporal lobe, the cerebral pia mater showed unusual fusion of two facing sheets in a sulcus and ectopia of nerve cells, and the cerebellar vermis was small. The findings observed here indicate that overgrowth and lack of growth can coexist in the TD brain, suggesting that some interaction(s) between the mesenchyme and the nervous tissue may play a role in normal differentiation of these two cell lines.
Genomic repertoire of human mesangial cells: comprehensive analysis of gene expression by cDNA array hybridization
Authors: Yano Naohiro , Endoh Masayuki , Fadden Kimberly J , Yamashita Hiroshi , Sakai Hideto , Kurokawa Kiyoshi , Abboud Hanna E , Rifai Abdalla
Published: March 2003

Knowing when and where a gene is expressed in a cell often provides a strong clue as to its physiological role. It is estimated the human genome contains 80 000–100 000 genes. Assessment of gene activity on a global genome‐wide scale is a fundamental and newly developed experimental strategy to expand the scope of biological investigation from a single gene to studying all genes at once in a systematic way. Capitalizing on the recently developed methodology of cDNA array hybridization, we monitored the simultaneous expression of thousands of genes in primary human mesangial cells. Complex α‐33P‐labelled cDNA probes were prepared from cultured mesangial cells. The probe was hybridized to a high‐density array of 18 326 paired target genes. The radioactive hybridization signals were analysed by phosphorimager. Bioinformatics from public genomic databases was utilized to assign a chromosomal location of each expressed transcript. Approximately 7460 different gene transcripts were detected in mesangial cells. Close to 13% (957 genes) were full‐length mRNA human transcripts (HTs), the remainder 6503 being expressed sequence tags (ESTs). Using special imaging computer software, the transcriptional level of the 957 HTs was compared with the expression of the ribosomal protein S28 (housekeeping gene). The HTs were also classified by function of the gene product and listed with information on their chromosomal loci. To allow comparison between clinical and experimental studies of gene expression, the detected human gene transcripts were cross‐referenced to orthologous mouse genes. Thus, the presented data constitute a quantitative preliminary blueprint of the transcriptional map of the human mesangial cell. The information may serve as a resource for speeding up the discovery of genes underlying human glomerular diseases. The complete listing of the full‐length expressed genes is available upon request via E‐mail: (Abdalla_Rifai@Brown.edu).
Effect of lisinopril on deposition of iron in renal tissue in Tsukuba hypertensive mice carrying human renin‐angiotensin system genes
Authors: Kai Tatsuya , Sugimura Keiichi , Kino Hirofumi , Takenaka Toshihiko , Shimada Seijiro , Kurooka Atsuhiro , Ishikawa Kinji
Published: March 2003

SUMMARY:

Tsukuba hypertensive mice (THM) are transgenic mice that carry both human renin and angiotensinogen genes and overexpress the human renin‐angiotensin system (RAS). In the present study, the effect of lisinopril on deposition of macromolecular iron in renal tissue in THM was evaluated. Twelve‐week‐old male THM were divided into the following groups: lisinopril dosage group (ACEI group), hydralazine dosage group (hydralazine group), and a no‐drug group (control group). Age‐matched male C57BL/6 mice (wild group) were used as normal controls. Each mouse was treated with a drug for 8 weeks. All mice were euthanised at 20 weeks of age, and their kidneys were fixed and stained with Berlin‐blue. Systolic blood pressure was significantly higher in the control group than in the wild group, and it decreased significantly to similar levels in the ACEI group and the hydralazine group. Iron deposition was observed in proximal renal tubules in the control group and the hydralazine group, but iron deposition was not observed in the ACEI group or the wild group. The results of the study suggest that the RAS plays an important role in the deposition of iron in the proximal renal tubules in THM, and that lisinopril prevents this deposition.
Effects of exogenous homocysteine on cellular proliferation and extracellular matrix production in cultured rat mesangial cells
Authors: Li Jian , Li Xiaomei , Wang Haiyan
Published: March 2003

SUMMARY: Homocysteine (HCY) is a thiol‐containing amino acid produced as a result of the demethylation of methionine. It has been proved that elevated HCY is associated with a high risk of arteriosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Although hyperhomocysteinaemia is observed frequently in patients with end‐stage renal disease, its role in the process of glomerulosclerosis is not clear. This study investigated the effects of exogenous HCY on proliferation, phenotype change and extracellular matrix production in rat mesangial cells (MCs). The results revealed that DNA synthesis in MCs, measured by the [3H]‐thymidine uptake, did not increase significantly when the cells were treated with HCY at concentrations of 5 × 10−5, 5 × 10−4 or 1 × 10−3 mol/L, even though thymidine incorporation in MCs increased two‐ to fourfold using 20% fetal calf serum‐RPMI medium or platelet‐derived growth factor (20 ng/mL). A dose‐dependent increase in thymidine incorporation in vascular smooth muscle cells was also found when these cells were treated with HCY at similar concentrations (P < 0.01). The cell cycle was not changed when MCs were stimulated by HCY at different doses (5 × 10−5, 5 × 10−4 and 1 × 10−3 mol/L) or at different time points (24, 48 and 72 h). Additionally, increased extracellular signal‐regulated kinase was observed in MCs induced by PDGF (10 ng/mL), but not by HCY (0.5 mmol/L) for 2–60 min. α‐Smooth muscle actin, detected using Western blot analysis, was not changed when MCs were exposed to 0.5 mmol/L HCY for 6, 12, 18, 24 and 36 h. Fibronectin and laminin, which are detected in the supernatant of cultured MCs by inhibition enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, were not changed when MCs were exposed to HCY (5 × 10−4 mol/L) for 2, 4, 6 or 8 days. These results suggest that HCY has no effect on proliferation, phenotype change or extracellular matrix production in MCs. This indicates that HCY may not be a key factor contributing to the process of glomerulosclerosis.
Carpal tunnel syndrome in haemodialysis patients: early detection by electroneurophysiological studies
Authors: Al‐Homrany Mohammed A. , Khan M. R. H. , Adzaku Festus , Harding M. G.
Published: March 2003

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is the most common nerve entrapment disorder. It is characterized by pain, paraesthesia and, ultimately, muscle wasting of the hand. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of CTS among haemodialysis patients both clinically and with the use of electromyography (EMG). Fifty‐five dialysis patients on regular haemodialysis treatment were included. There were 34 (62%) female and 21 (38%) male patients. The mean age was 47.3 ± 13.7 years. The mean age at commencement of dialysis was 44.4 ± 14.5 years. The mean duration on dialysis was 37 months. Twenty‐two patients (40.8%) showed normal examination and normal EMG findings. Thirty‐two patients (59.2%) had either abnormal EMG findings or positive physical signs or both. Further analysis of these 32 patients indicated that 13 patients (24%) had abnormal EMG finding compatible with the diagnosis of CTS and there were abnormal clinical features in 26 patients (48%) (seven patients with positive EMG findings and 19 patients with negative EMG studies). There was not a good correlation between EMG and the clinical examination. There was a statistically significant positive correlation between the finding of abnormal EMG suggesting CTS and the duration on dialysis, with increasing prevalence observed in patients treated for more than 5 years (P = 0.039). CTS was also diagnosed by EMG in 18% of patients remaining on dialysis for less than 5 years. This study revealed the high prevalence of CTS in dialysis patients and emphasizes the importance of EMG studies in the detection of early cases of CTS. It also provides quantitative data for timely surgical intervention before irreversible changes and during the follow‐up of patients after decompression of the median nerve.
Urinary podocytes in childhood IgA nephropathy
Authors: Hara Masanori , Yanagihara Toshio , MATSUNO1 Masatomo , KIHARA2 Itaru
Published: March 2003

SUMMARY: We have previously demonstrated the presence of detached podocytes in the urine in various glomerular diseases. In this study, we investigated the pathological significance of detachment of urinary podocytes (u‐podocytes) in childhood IgA nephropathy. We investigated 28 children with IgA nephropathy. U‐podocytes were detected in the urinary sediment by immunofluorescence. Renal pathological changes and urinalysis, including the u‐podocyte test, were analysed. The expression of glomerular basement membrane (GBM) components, integrins and cytoskeleton components on urinary podocytes was investigated using dual immunofluorescence in 12 patients. The u‐podocyte score paralleled the acute glomerular changes in renal biopsy samples. The infiltration of glomerular macrophages and polymorphonuclear leucocytes, and the number of urinary leucocytes, correlated highly with the u‐podocyte score. Some of the u‐podocytes expressed integrins and also components of the GBM. Detachment of podocytes reflects the presence of acute glomerular lesions. Infiltration of glomerular leucocytes is considered to be the cause of the detachment, partly because of the destruction of the GBM.
Tubular‐interstitial interactions in proteinuric renal diseases
Authors: Kairaitis Lukas K , Harris David CH
Published: March 2003

SUMMARY: Progressive chronic renal disease of all types is characterized by a relatively uniform set of tubular (atrophy, hypertrophy, hyperplasia) and interstitial (inflammatory cell infiltration, fibrosis) pathological changes, the severity of which correlates well with the degree of proteinuria and the decline in glomerular filtration. Complex and redundant pathophysiological events underlie the relationship between proteinuria, tubular injury and interstitial damage, forming potential targets for therapy. The outcome of these events is also determined by additional factors not limited to proteinuric diseases, including tissue hypoxia, complement activation and mediators produced in response to glomerular damage. In response to proteinuria and these additional factors, tubular cells are activated to produce a large number of chemoattractants, proinflammatory and profibrotic cytokines and matrix proteins, which cause, at least in part, interstitial inflammation and fibrosis. In turn, soluble products of interstitial inflammatory cells (predominantly T lymphocytes and macrophages), dendritic cells and fibroblasts are at least partially responsible for altering the phenotype of tubular cells. Abnormal tubular‐interstitial interactions may also depend on direct cell contact rather than soluble mediators, as evidenced by up‐regulation of integrins and cell adhesion molecules. Myofibroblasts, a key cell in the production of interstitial fibrosis, may arise in response to the above mediators by trans‐differentiation of fibroblasts, perivascular cells and tubular cells. In addition, tubular cells have been shown to be capable of the induced expression of the signalling molecules necessary for them to behave as antigen‐presenting cells and thereby potentially initiate interstitial inflammation through the classic interactions of cognate immunity. It is probable that several, but not all, of this bewildering number of pathophysiological events are of prime importance to the development of tubulointerstitial damage in proteinuria. The immediate challenge for investigators is to define the relative importance of these events and, thus, the most appropriate targets for new treatments.