bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association between Delta Waves during Sleep and Negative Symptoms in Schizophrenia
Authors: Kato Masaaki , Kajimura Naofumi , Okuma Teruo , Sekimoto Masanori , Watanabe Tsuyoshi , Yamadera Hiroshi , Takahashi Kiyohisa
Published: April 2003

We examined the effects of benzodiazepine (BZD) hypnotics and zopiclone (ZPC), a nonbenzodiazepine hypnotic, on sleep and psychiatric symptoms in schizophrenia, as well as the clinical correlates of these variables. Seven male schizophrenic patients chronically taking neuroleptics together with BZD were studied. We replaced BZD with ZPC and performed polysomnography (PSG) and Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale (BRPS) scoring before and after an 8-week ZPC treatment. The replacement of BZD with ZPC increased the mean amplitude of high-amplitude low-frequency delta waves on the frontal derivation recognized by period-amplitude analysis, and it decreased the BPRS negative-symptom score. Under the BZD treatment, the negative-symptom score correlated inversely with the mean amplitude of high-amplitude low-frequency delta waves. This correlation was weak and not significant under the ZPC treatment. Therefore, delta waves during sleep have a close correlation to negative symptoms in schizophrenia, and such a correlation could be influenced by hypnotics. Although these are preliminary findings, it was suggested that, compared with BZD, ZPC might be a beneficial hypnotic in regard to both sleep and negative symptoms of chronic schizophrenic patients.
The Predictive Value of Benzodiazepine Tolerance in Persistently Aggressive Schizophrenia
Authors: Hatta Kotaro , Takahashi Takeo , Nakamura Hiroyuki , Yamashiro Hisato , Endo Hirohisa , Kito Kiyohiro , Fujii Senta , Matsuzaki Ichiyo , Masui Kanji , Yonezawa Yosuke
Published: April 2003

The aim of this study was to determine whether benzodiazepine tolerance might provide a predictive marker for persistent aggression in schizophrenia. Seventy-seven male schizophrenic patients newly admitted to our psychiatric intensive care unit due to violent behavior during a 4-month period were examined. As a result, a high dose of benzodiazepine required for sedation or a short duration until regaining consciousness after the initial sedation, was related to severer aggression on waking up after sedation. Despite the small number of subjects examined, a conservative claim can be made that the level of the effect of benzodiazepine required for sedation seems to predict persistent severe aggression in schizophrenia.
Effects of Neonatal Clomipramine Treatment on Locomotor Activity, Anxiety-Related Behavior and Serotonin Turnover in Syrian Hamsters
Authors: Yannielli Paola C. , Kargieman Lucila , Gregoretti Lis , Cardinali Daniel P.
Published: April 2003

Day-night differences in locomotor and anxiety-related behavior and brain serotonin metabolism were examined in adult Syrian hamsters that received clomipramine (15 mg/kg) or vehicle from day 8 to day 21 of life. Locomotor activity was significantly greater at the beginning of scotophase (20.00 h) than at noon (12.00 h) and it was highest in hamsters treated with clomipramine at both examined times. Significant day-night differences in anxiety-related behavior, as measured in a plus-maze paradigm, were found in saline-treated hamsters only, with higher values at night. Clomipramine-treated hamsters exhibited augmented 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid/serotonin ratio in hypothalamus and midbrain raphe, while serotonin content decreased in frontal cortex and hypothalamic areas. The results indicate that neonatal clomipramine treatment produces a long-lasting change in locomotion and anxiety-related behavior, as well as reduces brain serotonin content in hamsters.
Linopirdine (DUP 996): Cholinergic Treatment of Older Adults Using Successive and Non-successive Tests
Authors: Börjesson Arne , Karlsson Thomas , Adolfsson Rolf , Rönnlund Michael , Nilsson Lars-Göran
Published: April 2003

The purpose of this study was to examine whether cholinergic treatment of age-associated memory impairment with Linopirdine (DUP 996), a derivate of phenylindoline, affects explicit memory, implicit memory, and primary memory. We also assessed cognitive decision making in a reaction time test. Explicit memory was assessed by face recognition, word recall and a word recognition test, being part of a successive test paradigm. Implicit memory was assessed by primed word fragment completion in the same successive test paradigm. Primary memory was studied by means of digit recall. Thirty-eight elderly subjects fulfilled the criteria for memory impairment. Four groups of subjects were given 10, 20 or 30 mg of DUP 996 or placebo during 4 weeks. A double-blind procedure was applied. No significant treatment effects for recognition memory and priming were obtained in the successive test paradigm. Analysis of dependence/independence between tests did not show any clear pattern of treatment effects. The other explicit memory tests and the reaction time test showed no effect with DUP 996. Because of the range of the different tests used here, the result and the general evidence in other investigations of the cholinergic depletion among aged people, the conclusion is that DUP 996 does not improve memory performance either in explicit, implicit or primary tests.
The Acute Effects of the Noradrenaline Reuptake Inhibitor Org 4428 on EEG Sleep in Healthy Volunteers
Authors: van Bemmel Alex L. , Vermeeren Miranda T.G. , Ruigt Gé , Sennef Cor
Published: April 2003

Drug-induced improvement of depression may be mediated by changes in sleep physiology. In earlier studies on sleep EEG changes during treatment with antidepressants in depressed patients it could not be excluded that sleep disruptions and changes in the amount and distribution of REM sleep play a role in the changes in the sleep EEG. Therefore knowledge of the effects of antidepressants on the sleep EEG in healthy subjects with non-disturbed baseline sleep is necessary. In a three-way cross-over study in 12 healthy volunteers two single doses of Org 4428 (a highly specific noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor), 25 and 100 mg, were compared with placebo. Sleep EEGs were visually analysed and EEG power of non-REM sleep was measured. The results indicate that sole noradrenaline reuptake inhibiting activity is a potent mechanism to affect sleep polygraphic variables in an antidepressant-like way, i.e. REM sleep suppression and lengthening of REM latency. Despite the increase in the duration of non-REM sleep, i.e. stage 2, no significant changes in EEG power in the range 1–15 Hz were found. Therefore, the acute REM sleep suppression of Org 4428 did not result in a simultaneous reduction of EEG power during non-REM sleep. To date, these and earlier results indicate that most drugs with antidepressant properties affect REM sleep variables consistently, whereas their effect on both sleep polygraphic and EEG power variables in non-REM sleep is unpredictable.
Binding of [3H]lysergic Acid Diethylamide to Serotonin 5-HT2A Receptors and of [3H]paroxetine to Serotonin Uptake Sites in Platelets from Healthy Children, Adolescents and Adults
Authors: Sigurdh Jeanette , Spigset Olav , Allard Per , Mjörndal Tom , Hägglöf Bruno
Published: April 2003

Possible age effects on binding of [3H]lysergic acid diethylamide ([3H]LSD) to serotonin 5-HT2A receptors and of [3H]paroxetine to serotonin uptake sites were studied in platelets from healthy children (11–12 years of age), adolescents (16–17 years of age) and adults. Significant overall age effects were found both for the number of binding sites (Bmax) for [3H]LSD binding (p < 0.001), the affinity constant (Kd) for [3H]LSD binding (p < 0.001), Bmax for [3H]paroxetine binding (p < 0.001) and Kd for [3H] paroxetine binding (p = 0.006). In general, there was a decrease in Bmax with increasing age, which predominantly occurred between the ages 11–12 years and 16–17 years for the 5-HT2A receptor, and after 16–17 years of age for the serotonin uptake site. These developmental changes might have an impact on the effect of treatment with serotonergic drugs in children and adolescents. When the platelet serotonin variables investigated are employed in studies in children or adolescents, age matching or, alternatively, introduction of age control in the statistical analysis should be performed.
Trait Hostility and Prolactin Response to Tryptophan Enhancement/Depletion
Authors: Wingrove Janet , Bond Alyson J. , Cleare Anthony J. , Sherwood Roy
Published: April 2003

This study investigated the relationship between trait hostility and aspects of serotonergic function by assessing the prolactin (PRL) response to acute tryptophan depletion and enhancement in 28 healthy male volunteers. Serum PRL was assessed immediately before, and 4.5 h after, administration of an amino acid drink enhanced with, or depleted of, the 5-HT precursor tryptophan. Trait hostility and ΔPRL (value at 4.5 h minus baseline) correlated negatively following enhancement and positively following depletion, indicating that the higher the hostility the smaller the change in PRL in either direction. This is consistent with previous research reporting an association between aggression and blunted neuroendocrine responses to serotonergic agents. The results indicate the possibility that, in people high on hostility, part of the serotonergic pathway that leads to modulation of PRL release is characterised by a stage with either low capacity relative to input availability or a strong negative feedback component.
Mild Cognitive Impairment in Old-Age Depression Is Associated with Increased EEG Slow-Wave Power
Authors: Adler Georg , Bramesfeld Anke , Jajcevic Ana
Published: April 2003

Reversible dementia in geriatric depression is known to be a risk factor for irreversible dementia. Whether just mild cognitive deficits in elderly depressed patients hold a similar risk is not known yet. It may be suggested that elderly depressed patients with mild cognitive deficits, who are prone to develop dementia, show EEG alterations similar to those observed in demented patients. We studied the relationships between cognitive performance, severity of depressive symptoms and quantitative EEG parameters in 31 unmedicated, nondemented, depressed patients aged 60 years or more. Twenty-one of the patients showed a cognitive performance characteristic of mild cognitive impairment. In these patients, the mean delta and theta power was significantly higher than in the patients without cognitive impairment. Total delta power was negatively correlated with cognitive performance. There was no relationship between cognitive performance or EEG parameters and the severity of depression.
A Comparison of ADAS and EEG in the Discrimination of Patients with Dementia of the Alzheimer Type from Healthy Controls
Authors: Ihl R. , Brinkmeyer J. , Jänner M. , Kerdar M.S.
Published: April 2003

Neuropsychometric tests (for instance the Alzheimer’s Disease Assessment Scale, ADAS) and the EEG are often used in the diagnostic procedure of dementia. The validity of the instruments is only poorly investigated. The study aimed to investigate the accuracy of the discrimination between healthy controls and patients with dementia of the Alzheimer type (DAT) by ADAS and EEG. Thirty-six patients with DAT and 44 healthy controls were included. In a discriminant analysis of the 21 ADAS items and 18 EEG parameters (6 frequency bands, 12 topographic parameters), 6 ADAS items turned out to discriminate both groups with 100% sensitivity and specificity (remembering instructions, depression, following commands, pacing, restlessness and word finding difficulties). Regarding EEG parameters, 4 (topography of β- and δ-activity and amplitude of δ-activity) led to a sensitivity and specificity of over 90%. Thus, both methods demonstrated an excellent discrimination between healthy controls and DAT. The slightly higher discrimination with the ADAS may depend on its closer relation to clinical symptoms. However, the EEG measuring functional activity reached nearly the same result. Both methods provide complementary information. A combination of both methods in the diagnostic procedure to detect dementia is recommended.
Clinical Manifestations of Psychiatric Patients Who Are Carriers of Tay-Sachs Disease
Authors: Zelnik N. , Khazanov V. , Sheinkman A. , Karpati A.M. , Peleg L.
Published: April 2003

Patients with late-onset Tay-Sachs disease (TSD) may manifest with neuropsychiatric features. We hypothesized that the prevalence of TSD carriers in psychiatric patients is higher than in the general population and their clinical profile is different from that of their noncarrier counterparts. Among 500 Ashkenazi-Jewish psychiatric patients, 19 were found to be TSD carriers. Their prevalence in the study population is proportional to that in the general Ashkenazi population. However, abnormal neurological findings, especially cognitive impairment, were commoner among TSD carriers (47.4 vs. 26.2%, p = 0.04). It is possible that chronic use of some psychotropic drugs plays a role in this phenomenon.
Effect of Time-of-Day on the Yawning Response to Apomorphine in Normal Subjects
Authors: Lal S. , Tesfaye Y. , Thavundayil J.X. , Skorzewska A. , Schwartz G.
Published: April 2003

The yawning response to the dopamine (DA) receptor agonist apomorphine HCl (Apo, 7 μg/kg s.c.) and placebo (physiological saline) were examined in two groups of normal men. One group (n = 11) was investigated in the morning and the other group (n = 16) in the afternoon. The frequency of yawning was polygraphically monitored for 60 min following injection. Apo increased yawning compared with placebo when given in the morning (p < 0.02), but not when given in the afternoon. Yawning frequency was increased after both Apo (p < 0.01) and placebo (p < 0.025) when given in the morning compared with responses in the afternoon. These results suggest that yawning frequency with both Apo and placebo is influenced by time of day, possibly as a result of diurnal variation in DA receptor sensitivity.
Determinants of the Voluntary Consumption of Nicotine by Rats
Authors: Maehler R. , Dadmarz M. , Vogel W.H.
Published: April 2003

The 2-bottle free-choice method was used to study the voluntary consumption of nicotine by rats. Rats consumed nicotine voluntarily at different, albeit quite consistent, amounts. Voluntary intakes were higher in younger than older rats, but were not affected by gender. A previously forced nicotine intake had no effect on a subsequent voluntary intake of nicotine in older but increased it in younger rats. Forced exposure to nicotine of pregnant and lactating rats did not increase the voluntary intake by their offsprings. Established free-choice drinking patterns of nicotine were not affected by a temporary forced intake of this substance. The 2-bottle choice proved to be a reliable method to study the voluntary intake of nicotine, and results suggest that nicotine is not ‘addictive’ per se, but that its use is apparently determined by the response of an individual rat to this substance.
Electrophysiologic Analysis of Antidepressant Drug Effects on the GABAA Receptor Complex Based upon Antagonist-Induced Encephalographic Power Spectrum Changes
Authors: Matsubara Momoyo , Suzuki Sigeru , Miura Kazuya , Terashima Masayoshi , Sugita Sotaro , Kimura Hitoshi , Hatsuda Satoshi , Mori Takao , Murakami Hirosuke , Hayashi Takuji , Ohta Tatsuro , Ohara Mitsugi
Published: April 2003

To better understand antidepressant drug effects on the GABAA receptor complex (the GABAA receptor, chloride ionophore and benzodiazepine receptor), we investigated how antidepressants influenced power spectrum changes induced by pentylenetetrazol (PTZ), a chloride ionophore antagonist, in the rat hippocampal electroencephalogram (EEG). In control recording, PTZ (27.5 mg/kg i.p.) increased EEG power at frequencies under 12 Hz up to five times. After rats were pretreated with imipramine, fluoxetine or trazodone for 7 days (10 mg/kg i.p., twice a day), PTZ could not increase EEG power to more than three times the power before injection; this effect was not observed after pretreatment for 3 days. These three antidepressants inhibit serotonin uptake, while two other antidepressants, desipramine and nortriptyline, that inhibit norepinephrine uptake failed to counter the PTZ effect. We concluded that antidepressants with serotonergic effects enhanced the function of the GABAA receptor complex.
Antisaccadic Effects of a Dopamine Agonist as Add-On Therapy in Advanced Parkinson’s Patients
Authors: Crevits Luc , Versijpt Jan , Hanse Monique , De Ridder Katrien
Published: April 2003

We wanted to compare clinical neurological and antisaccadic behavior before and after addition of a dopamine agonist to the usual antiparkinsonian drugs in advanced Parkinson’s disease. Parkinson’s patients in stage 3 and 4 of Hoehn and Yahr not yet taking a dopamine agonist were selected. In 20 patients, the treating neurologist decided to add pergolide. The dose of pergolide was adjusted by the treating neurologist according to clinical response. Antisaccades were studied by infrared oculography before and after addition of pergolide. Antisaccades are voluntary saccades in the opposite direction of an unanticipated visual target. The patients made more errors, i.e. they glanced to the target or they made no eye movement at all. In contradistinction to the global neurological improvement and the better motor scores, antisaccadic disturbances did not improve significantly with pergolide, except in younger patients. These findings suggest that antisaccadic alterations in patients with advanced Parkinson’s disease could be multifaceted. Not only depletion of dopamine, but also non-dopaminergic dysfunctions could contribute. Cortical frontal lesions must also be taken into account.
Middle Ear Imaging via the Eustachian Tube with a Superfine Fiberoptic Videomicroendoscope
Authors: Karhuketo Tapio S. , Puhakka Heikki J.
Published: April 2003

The aim of this study was to systemically evaluate the visualization of the middle ear structures with a superfine fiberoptic videomicroendoscope introduced via the eustachian tube. With the permission of the Finnish Ministry of Health ten temporal bone blocks were dissected from lately succumbed patients. An Olympus AF-8 (0.8 mm outer diameter) angiofiberscope was used. The AF-8 fiberoptic videomicroendoscope is a straightforward-looking endoscope with a 55° field of view. The endoscope tip was introduced through the eustachian tube into the middle ear and the middle ear structures were visualized and counted. Forty-three anatomical structures were listed and the results presented in a categorized table. Nineteen anatomical objects among 43 were never observed in any temporal bone block. The rest of the anatomical structures were visualized to varying degrees.
Laser Bronchoscopy in Palliative Treatment of Malignant Obstructing Endobronchial Tumors
Authors: Sipilä Jukka , Scheinin Harry , Grenman Reidar
Published: April 2003

This retrospective study investigates the experience of our ENT Department in the palliative treatment of obstructive malignant bronchial tumors with endoscopic laser surgery. 82 laser procedures on 39 patients were performed between January 1988 and December 1993. In 25 cases, a carbon dioxide (CO2) laser and, in 14 cases, a combined CO2-Nd:YAG laser were used. In 60 procedures, more than half of the tumor could be resected with laser. In 22 cases, minor improvement of the bronchial airway was achieved. Subjectively, most of the patients felt improved breathing after surgery and all were ready to undergo repeated treatment if it was offered. Two fatal complications occurred. We conclude that endoscopic laser surgery is a relatively safe treatment modality for palliation of a compromised airway and can offer a better life quality to selected patients, although it also involves the possibility of fatal complications.
Downgraded Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in the Neck Occurring as a Secondary Malignancy
Authors: Ogata Yoichi , Setoguchi Mihoko , Tahara Tetsuya , Takahashi Mutsuo , Takahashi Masahiro
Published: April 2003

While the histologic progression from low-grade non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL) to intermediate- or high-grade NHL has been well documented, a rare phenomenon called downgrading in which the histologic conversion of a low-grade NHL occurs after treatment for intermediate- or high-grade NHL has recently been recognized. We report the clinical, immunologic, and genetic features of a patient with a diffuse NHL (intermediate grade) who initially achieved complete remission by both chemotherapy and radiation therapy and then presented with a follicular NHL (low grade) 14 years later. The immunohistochemical study of the lymphoma cells showed B lymphocytes in biopsied lymph nodes at both the initial and the second diagnosis. However, a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis for the immunoglobulin gene rearrangement indicated that the clone of the initial intermediate-grade NHL showed monoclonal cell population, and was distinct from that of the second downgraded form. Given the PCR results and the clinical features, we suggest that a follicular NHL can occur as a secondary malignancy following combined therapy for a diffuse NHL.
Experimental Perilymphatic Fistulas
Authors: Böhmer† Andreas
Published: April 2003

Objectives: Do experimentally induced perilymph fistulas in animals cause specific cochleo- vestibular symptoms? Material: Review of the recent literature on animal experiments of perilymph fistulas (back to 1990). An attempt was made to distinguish between ‘pure fistulas’ of the round window membrane and experimental setups with potential additional lesions of the inner ear. Results: Pure fistulas of the round window membrane did not affect the auditory thresholds or cause vestibular symptoms. There were however decreased distorsion product otoacoustic emissions, increased summation potentials and inconsistently decreased acoustic-evoked compound action potential amplitudes at high stimulation intensities. Experiments with potential inadvertently induced or controlled additional lesions of inner ear structures caused only slightly more serious symptoms. Conclusions: Isolated fistulas between the perilymphatic space and the middle ear cavity do not cause important cochleovestibular dysfunction. If such symptoms occur, they are probably caused by additional inner ear lesions. There are no evidences from animal experiments that surgical sealing of a fistula has a beneficial effect on these symptoms.
Perilymphatic Fistula: A Washington, D.C., Experience
Authors: Fitzgerald Dennis C. , Getson Pamela , Brasseux Cynthia O.
Published: April 2003

One hundred ninety-seven patients who underwent surgical repair for a presumed unilateral perilymphatic fistula (PLF) were reviewed. Of those patients, 87% with vestibular symptoms reported complete or near-complete relief of their symptoms. Forty percent of the patients with sudden hearing loss had an improvement in their hearing levels. An analysis of several diagnostic tests revealed their sensitivity and specificity ratings. A review of the patients’ operative records showed a marked disparity between the visual identification of an actual fluid leak during surgery and their postoperative outcome. This review supports the premise that at the present time, the patient’s surgical outcome is the best way of documenting a successfully repaired PLF.
Langzeitergebnisse von Patienten mit einem Cochlea-Implantat
Authors: Riebandt Michael , Sandrieser Patricia , Matulat Peter , Lamprecht-Dinnesen Antoinette , Seifert Eberhard
Published: April 2003

Die Dokumentation der Ergebnisse einer Cochlea-Implantat (CI)-Versorgung ist Bestandteil der postoperativen Rehabilitation mit Hör-Sprach-Therapie und Kontrolluntersuchungen. In der vorliegenden Arbeit werden die audiometrischen und logopädischen Testergebnisse von vierzehn CI-Patienten sowie ihre kommunikativ-pragmatische Kompetenz dargestellt. Das Alter der Erwachsenen lag zwischen 53 und 68 Jahren (Mittelwert 61 Jahre), das der Kinder zwischen 9 und 16 Jahren (Mittelwert 11 Jahre 8 Monate). Die Patienten wurden postoperativ mehrfach je nach Alter und aktuellem Stand der Rehabilitation mit dem Mainzer Kindersprachtest I bis III, dem Göttinger Kindersprachverständnistest 1 und 2 und/oder dem Freiburger Sprachverständnistest (Zahlen, Einsilber) untersucht. Zusätzlich wurden Differenzierungstests zur Bestimmung der Unterscheidungsfähigkeit von Logatomen und zur Zeitauflösung durchgeführt. Bei Überprüfungen der sprachlichen und kommunikativen Leistungen der Patienten wurden die sprachsystematischen und kommunikativ-pragmatischen Fähigkeiten der Patienten bestimmt. Die aktuellen Ergebnisse streuen interindividuell stark. Die sprachaudiometrischen Daten liegen zwischen 40% Wortverständnis im Mainzer Kindersprachtest II und 90% Einsilberverständnis im Göttinger Kindersprachverständnistest 2 bei den Kindern und zwischen 35 und 85% Einsilberverständnis bei den Erwachsenen. Die Logatome /da/ und /di/ werden von 77% der Patienten als unterschiedlich wahrgenommen. Die Zeitauflösung, ausgedrückt als Unterscheidbarkeit zweier Lücken im Rauschen, beträgt für 85% der Patienten mehr als 20 ms. Die in den Sprachuntersuchungen erhobenen Daten ergeben bei den postlingual ertaubten Patienten durchweg Normalbefunde, bei den prälingual ertaubten Kindern streuen die Ergebnisse stark. Die kommunikativ-pragmatische Kompetenz hat sich bei allen Patienten im Verlaufe der Rehabilitation nach Cochlea-Implantation teilweise erheblich verbessert.
Effect of Diode Laser on Mucosal Swelling of Outpatients with Perennial Allergic Rhinitis
Authors: Nishimoto Jiro , Kumazawa Hirobumi , Kumazawa Tadami , Yamashita Toshio
Published: April 2003

Objective/Hypothesis: This study was undertaken to determine the efficacy of a new treatment system with a high power diode laser and rigid nasal endoscopic device on patients with perennial allergic rhinitis at an outpatient clinic. Study Design: A pilot study involving 30 patients with perennial allergic rhinitis refractory to conventional treatment was performed. Method: A high power diode laser and rigid nasal endoscopic device were used. The high power diode laser with an 805 nm-wavelength has been applied for laser surgery. The entire surface of the inferior turbinate until the posterior part was treated by a high power diode laser beam. To assist the laser surgery of the inferior turbinate, a specially designed nasal endoscope (Baerenbach nasalendoscope, Nisco), xenon light sources, and television monitors were used. The 4-mm 0° telescope which measured with 7 cm length was equipped with an infused cannula and hand grip in order to remove any smoke while performing the procedure. Results: 11 patients (36.7%) and 6 patients (20%) out of 30 patients obtained either excellent or good results at 1 month after laser surgery, respectively. Thereafter, the improvement rate increased to 43.3 with excellent and 23.3% with good results at 3 months, respectively. Conclusion: These findings suggest that a high power diode laser with a nasal rigid endoscopic device can be successfully utilized for the surgical treatment of perennial allergic rhinitis on an outpatient clinic.
Ist ein Druckverband nach Ohroperationen notwendig?
Authors: Ergin N.T. , Dal T. , Ozluoglu L.N.
Published: April 2003

Der Ohrverband nach einer Operation am Mittelohr und im Mastoidbereich gehört seit langem zu der Standardanwendung. In dieser Arbeit wird die Notwendigkeit der Anwendung des Ohrverbandes nach Operationen am Mittelohr und im Mastoidbereich untersucht. An 65 Patienten wurden 67 Mittelohr- und Mastoidoperationen durchgeführt. Die Patienten wurden in zwei Gruppen unterteilt: die erste Gruppe mit einem postoperativen Ohrverband, und die zweite ohne. In beiden Gruppen wurde bei je 1 Patienten eine Infektion festgestellt. In der Gruppe mit Ohrverband wurde bei 1 Patienten ein Hämatom diagnostiziert. In der anderen Gruppe hingegen wurde kein Hämatom festgestellt. In der Gruppe mit Ohrverband sind Heilungsschwierigkeiten der Wunde aufgetreten. In der Gruppe ohne Ohrverband wurde Nässen der Wunden zum Problem. Beim Vergleich der in beiden Gruppen aufgetretenen Komplikationen konnte statistisch gesehen kein signifikanter Unterschied festgestellt werden. Nach unseren Untersuchungen ist es nicht unbedingt nötig, nach Operationen am Mittelohr und Mastoidbereich einen Ohrverband anzuwenden.
Meatal Ganglionitis: Clinical Pathologic Correlation in Idiopathic Facial Paralysis (Bell’s Palsy)
Authors: Gacek Richard R. , Gacek Mark R.
Published: April 2003

Hypothesis: Present evidence which supports the concept that inflammation of the facial nerve (FN) meatal ganglion (MG) is the site of virus accumulation in idiopathic facial paralysis (IFP). Materials and Methods: Four bodies of evidence are used to support the hypothesis. (1) A case report of a 51-year-old female with left IFP is representative of a series with 5 patients who were monitored with MRI. Sequential MRI of the FN at 1, 8 and 15 weeks after onset of IFP monitored the inflammatory process in the FN. (2) A human temporal bone (TB) taken from an 81-year-old female who recovered from IFP 3 years before death was examined in the light microscope. (3) Eleven reports of MRI in patients with IFP were reviewed. (4) The data from 2 human TB studies describing the MG in normal and abnormal FN are summarized. Results: (1) The MRI of the FN in the majority of imaging reports of patients with IFP demonstrated enhancement of the meatal segment of the FN as the earliest focus in IFP. (2) The meatal FN segment was the earliest site of enhancement in our series of 5 patients with IFP. (3) The TB from the patient who recovered from IFP demonstrated degenerated cells in the MG and degeneration of vestibular neurons innervating cristae. (4) TB studies describe the occurrence of the MG in human FN. In the majority of FN (80%), the MG is represented by a smaller ganglion than the geniculate one. However, the MG equals or exceeds in size the geniculate ganglion in 20% of TB. A second TB study demonstrated ganglion cell lesions consistent with virally induced pathology in the MG and vestibular nerve (and ganglion) in a high percentage of TB. Conclusions: Clinical, radiologic and anatomical evidence supports meatal ganglionitis as a pathologic correlate in IFP.
Les cellulites cervicales diffuses
Authors: Vigne Ph. , Duvillard Ch. , Romanet Ph.
Published: April 2003

Buts: Les auteurs présentent une série de 5 observations de cellulites cervicales diffuses et discutent l’intérêt d’un traitement précoce. Matériel et méthode: Il s’agissait dans tous les cas de sujets masculins, d’un âge moyen de 57 ans. La porte d’entrée était surtout dentaire mais aussi oropharyngée. Le terrain diabétique aggravait le tableau clinique dans 2 cas et la prise d’anti-inflammatoires dans 3 cas. Le temps d’hospitalisation était d’environ un mois en moyenne. L’évolution s’est faite vers le décès dans un cas. Discussion: La tomodensitométrie est d’un grand intérêt en préopératoire et pour surveiller l’évolution. La prise en charge doit être médicale avec équilibre des tares existantes, mais aussi chirurgicale avec un large débridement cervical et des pansements répétés. Malgré un tel traitement, ces cellulites peuvent être mortelles. Le terrain diabétique semble être un facteur aggravant. Conclusion: Un diagnostic et un traitement précoces réduisent le risque de mortalité des cellulites cervicales diffuses. Il faut s’aider de la tomodensitométrie et l’endoscopie préopératoire permet de découvrir une porte d’entrée ignorée.
Interventions médico-psychothérapeutiques en ORL: nouvelle approche pour les patients souffrant de la maladie de Menière
Authors: Degive Colette , Archinard Marc , Kos Maria-Izabel , Guyot Jean-Philippe
Published: April 2003

La consultation conjointe médico-psychologique (CCMP) est une technique de prise en charge dans laquelle deux thérapeutes, un somaticien et un psychologue, reçoivent les patients. Le principe fondamental sur lequel repose la CCMP consiste dans le fait que les deux thérapeutes sont présents, ensemble, du début à la fin de la consultation. Cet article décrit le déroulement d’une CCMP pour les patients souffrant d’une maladie de Menière et rapporte l’expérience acquise depuis son instauration en 1992. Outre les manifestations physiques bien connues, la maladie de Menière entraîne une modification temporaire de la personnalité du malade. La CCMP aide les patients à exprimer la dualité de leur affection, somatique et psychique. Tous les aspects de la maladie y sont donc abordés et pris en charge.
Snoring and Obstructive Sleep Apnoea Syndrome: Aspects of Diagnosis and Evaluation
Authors: Lim Paul V.H.
Published: April 2003

Snoring is prevalent and closely related to the less common obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome. The effects of sleep apnoea on concentration leading to accidents are well documented. Untreated obstructive sleep apnoea is associated with an increased risk of morbidity and mortality. Proper assessment of a patient presenting with snoring is important to distinguish between ‘simple snoring’ and obstructive sleep apnoea. It is also important in determining the treatment most suited for alleviating the patient’s symptoms. There are many issues regarding the assessment and investigations of these two conditions. The roles of clinical history, physical examination, specially designed questionnaires including the Epworth Sleepiness Scale, investigative procedures including Müller’s manoeuvre, sleep nasoendoscopy and polysomnography, and available techniques for diagnosis and evaluation of snoring and obstructive sleep apnoea are discussed.
Chemokine Expression in Endothelial Cells and Monocytes Is Differentially Regulated
Authors: Parks Elizabeth , Lukacs Nicholas W. , Strieter Robert M. , Kunkel Steven L.
Published: April 2003

Endothelial cells play a critical role in the recruitment of immune cells due to their position at the interface between circulating cells and the inflamed tissue. In this study, human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and human monocytes were used to investigate the role of various cytokines in the regulation of C-C and C-X-C chemokine production. We have demonstrated that IL-4 and IL-10 negatively affect certain monocyte-derived chemokines, while not suppressing HUVEC-derived chemokines. The differential induction of chemokines by selected cytokines may help delineate the type(s) of leukocytes that are recruited during certain phases of an inflammatory response.
Comparison of a Pneumococcal Common Protein (PsaA) Antibody ELISA and a PsaA Immune Complex ELISA for Detection of Pneumococcal Serum Antibody
Authors: Tharpe Jean A. , Russell Harold , Leinonen Maija , Plikaytis Brian D. , Breiman Robert F. , Carlone George M. , Ades Edwin W. , Sampson Jacquelyn S.
Published: April 2003

We examined and compared results from three assays, an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and two immune complex ELISAs for analysis of the serum antibody response to a native pneumococcal 37-kD common cell-wall protein by using acute- and convalescent-phase sera from 56 patients with community-acquired pneumonia. The sensitivities of the ELISA, the undissociated and dissociated immune complex assays were 85% (23 of 27), 78% (21 of 27) and 67% (18 of 27), respectively. To determine specificity, paired sera from patients with pneumonia of other bacterial etiologies were tested. The specificities were 83, 83 and 72% for the ELISA, undissociated immune complex, and dissociated immune complex, respectively. Based on this study, the sensitivities of the three assays were not statistically different. These tests could be used retrospectively to confirm invasive pneumococcal disease.
Comparison of Alopecia areata in Human and Nonhuman Mammalian Species
Authors: McElwee Kevin J. , Boggess Dawnalyn , Olivry Thierry , Oliver Roy F. , Whiting David , Tobin Desmond J. , Bystryn Jean-Claude , King Jr. Lloyd E. , Sundberg John P.
Published: April 2003

Alopecia areata (AA) is a nonscarring form of inflammatory hair loss in humans. AA-like hair loss has also been observed in other species. In recent years the Dundee experimental bald rat and the C3H/HeJ mouse have been put forward as models for human AA. AA in all species presents with a wide range of clinical features from focal, locally extensive, diffuse hair loss, to near universal alopecia. Histologically, all species have dystrophic anagen stage hair follicles associated with a peri- and intrafollicular inflammatory cell infiltrate. Autoantibodies directed against anagen stage hair follicle structures are a consistent finding. Observations on AA pathogenesis suggest nonhuman species can provide excellent models for the human disease. Ultimately, animal models will be used to determine the genetic basis of AA, potential endogenous and/or environmental trigger(s), mechanism(s) of disease initiation and progression, and allow rapid evaluation of new and improved disease treatments.
Detection of Alterations in Chromosomes 16 and 1 by Fluorescence in situ Hybridization in Breast Tumors Cytologically or Histologically Equivocal for Malignancy
Authors: Tsuda Hitoshi , Takarabe Teruko , Shimamura Kayako , Hirohashi Setsuo
Published: April 2003

Structural and numerical alterations, and fusion of chromosomes 16 and 1 have been shown to occur frequently in low-grade breast carcinoma, but not in benign papilloma by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). We carried out FISH analysis of 11 benign tumors and 3 breast tumors for which the preoperative diagnosis was equivocal for cancer. In 11 benign lesions and 1 benign phyllode tumor which was cytologically equivocal for malignancy, alteration of the chromosome 16 or 1 signal was not detected as a predominant cell clone. On the other hand, in 1 grade 1 invasive ductal carcinoma which was judged as equivocal for malignancy and 1 marked adenosis with atypia which was judged as malignant by fine-needle aspiration cytology, the majority of constituent tumor cells showed fusion of chromosomes 16 and 1. Detection of alterations in chromosomes 16 and 1 as a predominant clone was suggested to be an indicator of lesion malignancy even though the grade of malignancy may not be high. As a supportive diagnostic procedure, FISH analysis may give information about the nature of lesions, when the lesions are clinically or pathologically equivocal for cancer.
Role of Tumor-Derived Granulocyte-Macrophage Colony-Stimulating Factor in MiceBear ing a Highly Invasive and Metastatic Mammary Carcinoma
Authors: Gabri Mariano R. , Menna Pablo Lorenzano , Scursoni Alejandra M. , Gomez Daniel E. , Alonso Daniel F.
Published: April 2003

We have examined the role of granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) in tumor-bearing BALB/c mice using the syngeneic F3II mammary carcinoma. In the present model, progression of subcutaneous tumors induced massive myelopoiesis in bone marrow and spleen due to GM-CSF secretion by tumor cells. In vitro, the addition of recombinant mouse GM-CSF (5– 25 ng/ml) caused a significant increase in F3II cell growth, either in the presence or absence of serum. Zymographic analysis of conditioned media from F3II monolayers showed that GM-CSF exerted a dose-dependent enhancement in the metalloproteinases MMP-9 (105 kD) and MMP-2 (70 kD), key enzymes in mammary tumor cell invasion. Our data suggest that ectopic GM-CSF production stimulates myelopoiesis and may also play an important role in tumor progression and metastasis formation.
Bronchial Cartilage Atrophy in Chronic Bronchitis: Observations on Chondrolytic Processes
Authors: Tetlow Lynne C. , Freemont Anthony J. , Woolley David E.
Published: April 2003

The status of bronchial cartilage degeneration in chronic bronchitis is unclear, and little is known about the chondrolytic mechanisms involved. The potential contributions of various inflammatory cells, chondrocytes and cartilage-degrading enzymes to cartilage atrophy have been examined. Bronchial cartilage specimens were obtained at autopsy from lobar secondary bronchi from chronic bronchitics and age-matched controls; each was examined by light microscopy and immunohistology for the distributions of mast cells, macrophages, eosinophils, collagenase 1, collagenase 3, and degradation products of cartilage collagen. Most bronchitic specimens showed hypertrophic chondrocytes, some of which were immunostained for collagenase 3, and occasionally for collagenase 1. Evidence for collagen degradation products was demonstrated around the lacunae of a proportion of chondrocytes, and both collagenases were also observed in the soft inflammatory tissues in close association with the cartilage surface, together with variable distributions of mast cells and macrophages. Such observations were generally absent or very much reduced in the control, non-bronchitic specimens. Degenerative changes, atrophy and loss of bronchial cartilage were common features of most chronic bronchitic specimens, this usually being related to intrinsic changes in the chondrocyte phenotype, including proliferative and matrix-degrading properties. Mast cells and macrophages were often observed in close association with the bronchial cartilage, suggesting that inflammatory cells may also contribute to the mechanisms of bronchial cartilage degradation and loss. These observations of bronchial cartilage degeneration were generally lacking in age-matched non-bronchitic control specimens.
Experimental African Trypanosomiasis: Differences in Cytokine and Nitric Oxide Production by Macrophages from Resistant and Susceptible Mice
Authors: Tabel H. , Kaushik R.S. , Uzonna J.
Published: April 2003

Immunosuppression in experimental infections with Trypanosoma congolense is mediated by the synergistic action of macrophages and a novel lymphocyte(s), which involves the activity of IFN-γ as well as IL-10. BALB/c mice are highly susceptible while C57Bl/6 mice are relatively resistant to T. congolense infections. Plasma and/or supernatants of spleen cell cultures of infected susceptible BALB/c mice have more IL-10 but less IL-12 than those of infected relatively resistant C57Bl/6 mice. Cells of a BALB/c macrophage cell line, when pulsed with T. congolense, produce more IL-10 and IL-6, but have less TNF-α mRNA, than equally treated cells of a C57Bl/6 cell line. Peritoneal and/or bone marrow-derived macrophages obtained from BALB/c mice, pulsed with T. congolense in culture, produce less nitric oxide, TNF-α and IL-12, but more IL-6 and IL-10 than equally treated macrophages isolated from C57Bl/6 mice. We suggest that genetic resistance to African trypanosomiasis is expressed at the level of the macrophage.
Bronchus-Associated Lymphoid Tissue (BALT) Is Not Present in the Normal Adult Lung but in Different Diseases
Authors: Tschernig Thomas , Pabst Reinhard
Published: April 2003

Bronchus-associated lymphoid tissue (BALT) was first described in the lungs of rabbits and differs greatly between species. It is part of the integrated mucosal immune system. This review clarifies its morphological definition and focuses on the situation in humans. The frequency of BALT at different ages, after chronic stimulation and in different diseases is described. In healthy humans, BALT can only be found in the lungs of children and adolescents. The role of BALT in lung transplantation and in the development of low-grade malignant lymphomas in the airways is also discussed. Furthermore, questions concerning the inducibility of BALT as an entry site for vaccines, and the regulation of its activity for future therapeutic interventions in pulmonary immune reactions are addressed.
Suppression of Atherogenesis in Female Low-Density Lipoprotein Receptor Knockout Mice following Magnesium Fortification of Drinking Water: The Importance of Diet
Authors: Sherer Yaniv , Shoenfeld Yehuda , Shaish Aviv , Levkovitz Hana , Bitzur Rafael , Harats Dror
Published: April 2003

Objective: Magnesium (Mg) has previously been found to modulate blood lipid levels, atherogenesis and atherosclerosis in rabbits when used as a dietary supplement. In addition, we have reported that Mg fortification of drinking water can attenuate atherogenesis in male low-density lipoprotein (LDL)-receptor-deficient mice, but had a mild and nonsignificant effect on female mice fed a high-cholesterol diet supplemented with cholic acid. The aim of this study was to examine whether Mg has an antiatherogenic effect in female mice fed a high-cholesterol diet without cholic acid. Methods: Two groups of female LDL-receptor-deficient mice were included. The mice received either distilled water or water with 50 g of Mg sulfate per liter. In the first (12 weeks) and second (6 weeks) stages of the experiment, the mice received low- and high-cholesterol diets, respectively, both without cholic acid. At the end of each stage of the experiment, blood was drawn for the determination of plasma Mg, calcium and lipid levels. In addition, the extent of atherosclerosis was determined at the aortic sinus level. Results: Mg fortification was associated with higher levels of plasma Mg while the mice were on a high-cholesterol diet, and the extent of atherosclerosis at the aortic sinus was significantly decreased in the female mice that received high levels of Mg compared with the female mice that received distilled water. The female mice that received water fortified with Mg had lower levels of triglycerides after stage 2, whereas no differences regarding cholesterol levels were found. Conclusion: These results confirm that Mg fortification of drinking water is capable of inhibiting atherogenesis also in female LDL-receptor-deficient mice fed a high-cholesterol diet, and demonstrate the importance of the nutritional composition of diet in this experimental model.
Possible Mechanism of Alprazolam-Induced Amnesia in Mice
Authors: Singh Nirmal , Sharma Ajay , Singh Manjeet
Published: April 2003

Alprazolam produced anterograde as well as retrograde amnesia in mice assessed using elevated plus-maze. Flumazenil (10 mg/kg i.p.) attenuated anterograde and retrograde amnesia produced by alprazolam. It is proposed that anterograde amnesia produced by alprazolam may be mediated through the activation of benzodiazepine receptors. Retrograde amnesia of alprazolam may be mediated through the blockade of PAF receptors. Moreover, flumazenil facilitates learning and memory perhaps by modulating the release of PAF and consequently attenuated alprazolam and BN-50730-(PAF receptor antagonist)-induced retrograde amnesia.
Cardiovascular Pharmacology of SKP-450, a New Potassium Channel Activator, and Its Major Metabolites SKP-818 and SKP-310
Authors: Shin Hwa Sup , Seo Ho Won , Yoo Sung Eun , Lee Byung Ho
Published: April 2003

The cardiovascular effects of SKP-450, a newly synthesized potassium channel activator, and its two major metabolites SKP-818 and SKP-310 were evaluated on isolated rat aorta and in freely moving rats and anesthetized beagle dogs. The rank order of potency in relaxing rat aorta precontracted with norepinephrine was SKP-450>SKP-818>lemakalim>SKP-310 (EC50: 0.12, 0.55, 0.71 and 5.89 µmol/l, respectively). In rats, SKP-450, SKP-818 and lemakalim (3–100 µg/kg, i.v.) induced a dose-dependent decrease in mean arterial pressure (MAP; ED20: 9.8, 11.7 and 22.4 µg/kg, respectively) followed by reflex tachycardia. In dogs, SKP-818 and SKP-310 (0.3–1,000 µg/kg, i.v.) had quite similar hemodynamic profiles to SKP-450 but with a smaller potency. SKP-450, SKP-818 and SKP-310 dose-relatedly decreased MAP (ED20: 2.6, 4.2 and 588.8 µg/kg, respectively). They slightly increased left ventricular positive dP/dtmax with a transient decrease at the highest dose, while inducing a dose-related decrease in rate-pressure product, tension time index and systolic time. SKP-450, SKP-818 and SKP-310 induced a marked dose-dependent increase in coronary blood flow (Emax: 172.8, 257.9 and 178.7%, respectively) with less effects on blood flow through other arteries. Glybenclamide antagonized all the hemodynamic effects of SKP-450 in rats and dogs, whereas propranolol antagonized its reflex tachycardia in rats. These results indicate that SKP-450 is a potent coronary and peripheral vasodilator in rats and dogs activating ATP-sensitive potassium channels and that SKP-818 and SKP-310 exert a similar hemodynamic profile to the parent compound with equi- and weaker potency, respectively.