bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does Anyone Care about Names? How Attendees at Substance Misuse Services Like to Be Addressed by Health Professionals
Authors: Keaney Francis , Strang John , Martinez-Raga Jose , Spektor David , Manning Victoria , Kelleher Michael , Wilson Jones Charlotte , Wanagaratne Shamil , Sabater Ana
Published: March 2004

Objective: To determine the preference of substance misusers for the terms ‘patient’, ‘client’ and ‘service user’ in the context of their contact with health professionals, if they consider substance misuse problems to exist appropriately under the category of mental health problems and if they consider themselves to have mental health problems. Methods: A self-completion questionnaire was administered to 150 National Health Service and private in- and outpatients with alcohol, drug and smoking problems. Results: The majority (54%) preferred the term ‘patient’, felt substance misuse problems was a category of mental health problems (59%), even though the majority (62%) did not consider themselves to have a mental health problem. Broadly similar preferences were found for those attending drug services and alcohol services whilst those attending the smoking cessation service were less likely to consider it an appropriate location or description. Discussion: The majority of substance misusers preferred to be called ‘patients’. The location of substance misuse services within mental health provision was widely tolerated.
Maintenance Therapy with Synthetic Opioids and Driving Aptitude
Authors: Schindler Shird-Dieter , Ortner Romana , Peternell Alexandra , Eder Harald , Opgenoorth Elfriede , Fischer Gabriele
Published: March 2004

Aims: To assess the influence of methadone and buprenorphine maintenance treatment on the driving aptitude of opioid-dependent patients. Design: Prospective, open label, outpatient maintenance, single-blind (investigator) study. Participants and Setting: Thirty opioid-dependent patients maintained on either methadone or buprenorphine were recruited from the drug-addiction outpatient clinic in Vienna. Measurements: The traffic-relevant performance dimensions of the participants were assessed 22 h after receiving synthetic opioid maintenance therapy, by a series of seven tests constituting the Act & React Test System (ART) 2020 Standard test battery, developed by the Austrian Road Safety Board (ARSB). To test for additional consumption of illicit substances, blood and urine samples were taken at the beginning of the tests. Findings: The patient group only differed from control subjects in two of the ART 2020 Standard tests. During a task to test the subject’s attention under monotonous circumstances (Q1 test), patients had a significantly greater number of reactions (p = 0.027) and a significantly higher percentage of incorrect reactions than control subjects. When driving in a dynamic environment (DR2 test) patients had a significantly longer mean decision time (p = 0.029) and mean reaction time (p = 0.009) compared with control subjects. Interestingly, when separated into treatment groups, the mean decision and reaction times of buprenorphine-maintained patients in the DR2 test did not differ from controls, whereas patients maintained on methadone showed significantly prolonged mean decision (p = 0.009) and reaction times (p = 0.004). In this same test, patients who had consumed additional illicit drugs had a longer mean reaction time compared with control subjects (p = 0.036). Conclusion: The synthetic opioid-maintained subjects investigated in the current study did not differ significantly in comparison to healthy controls in the majority of the ART 2020 Standard tests.
Learning by Doing: ‘Initiated Abstinence’, a School-Based Programme for the Prevention of Addiction
Authors: Kalke Jens , Raschke Peter
Published: March 2004

The objective of the study was to find out whether the school-based prevention programme ‘Initiated abstinence’ is suitable to induce pupils to change their consumer behavior and attitudes. The participants of the prevention programme commit themselves ‘per contract’ to abstain from or considerably reduce their consumption of at least one of their currently used substances (e.g. sweets, cigarettes) or media (TV, computer games) for a period of 2 weeks. The main goal of the programme is to sharpen their problem and health consciousness concerning addiction and pleasure seeking. The programme was evaluated by a longitudinal study. At three given times, the 12- to 15-year-old pupils of the experimental classes were interviewed by standardized self-completion questionnaires (n = 2,267). The control classes were submitted to two surveys (n = 586). The study was carried out in the areas of Innsbruck (Austria), Schleswig-Holstein (Germany) and South Tyrol (Italy). Not all pupils were able to keep their intentions submitted in their contract, but 4 of 5 pupils had at least one positive experience with the renunciation (82%). There were ‘overall effects’: The actual renunciation of the pupils was much higher than stated in their agreement. The experimental group showed significant reduction effects for pupils, who had successfully reduced or stopped use of a substance or medium. In a further step, it should be explored whether the programme is suitable also for older groups, i.e. for pupils older than 15 years. Moreover, the long-term effects of the programmes should be tested.
Observations on Genital Morphology and Anatomy of a Hybrid Male Muriqui (Genus Brachyteles)
Authors: Dixson Alan F. , Pissinatti Alcides , Anderson Matthew J.
Published: March 2004

The reproductive anatomy of the muriqui (genus Brachyteles) is poorly known. This paper describes the anatomy of the testis, penis and striated penile muscles in a young adult (5.25-year-old) captive-born muriqui which died at the Rio Primate Center. Two forms of muriqui occur in the Atlantic coastal forests of Brazil, and both are endangered. The form which is found north of 21° 00’ S latitude is classified as B. hypoxanthus by some authorities and is considered to be a species separate from B. arachnoides. The male specimen described here was a hybrid (the sire was B. arachnoides and the mother B. hypoxanthus). Hybridization was associated with absence of spermatozoa in the testis and with degeneration of the seminiferous epithelium. The structure of the prominent penis and striated penile muscles is discussed in relation to patterns of copulatory behavior and the likely occurrence of sperm competition in the muriqui. In addition, the occurrence of a baculum (os penis) is confirmed for this genus, and the first description of its morphology is provided.
Microhabitat Preference and Vertical Use of Space by Patas Monkeys (Erythrocebus patas) in Relation to Predation Risk and Habitat Structure
Authors: Enstam Karin L. , Isbell Lynne A.
Published: March 2004

Habitat structure can be important in determining habitat preference of animals because it is often closely linked to factors that affect survival and reproduction, such as food availability and predation risk. Here we examine the ways in which microhabitat structure and predation risk affect the habitat preference of wild patas monkeys (Erythrocebus patas). Patas monkeys in Kenya are typically restricted to Acacia drepanolobium habitat, but within our study group’s home range, there are two distinct microhabitats, one with taller trees (‘tall microhabitat’) and one with apparently perennially shorter trees (‘short microhabitat’). Examination of ranging behavior indicates that the patas monkeys preferred the tall microhabitat. In the tall microhabitat, focal animals climbed into trees that were significantly taller than average, indicating that they preferred tall trees. Female patas monkeys spent more time scanning from tall trees than from short trees and detected predators only from taller than average trees, based on alarm call data. Their use of tall trees may have decreased their predation risk by increasing their ability to detect predators. We found no evidence of increased food availability or reduced predator presence in the tall microhabitat that could contribute to the monkeys’ preference for the tall microhabitat.
Differences in Aerial and Terrestrial Visual Scanning in Captive Black Tufted-Ear Marmosets (Callithrix penicillata) Exposed to a Novel Environment
Authors: Barros Marilia , Alencar Carolina , Tomaz Carlos
Published: March 2004

Aerial and terrestrial visual scanning were investigated in captive black tufted-ear marmosets, Callithrix penicillata, exposed to a novel environment. Naive adult subjects (n = 24) were individually exposed to a figure-eight maze during seven 30-min trials, 48 h apart. Habituation to the maze was observed, as indicated by the significant decrease in locomotion. The frequency of aerial scanning, however, remained elevated throughout the 7 trials, while its duration rapidly increased to high levels. Frequency and duration of terrestrial scanning persisted at constant low rates, differing significantly from aerial scanning. Males and females did not differ significantly. The different impact of aerial versus terrestrial predators could have a significant influence on vigilant behaviour in this species. Thus, visual scanning is an important and highly organized antipredation strategy in marmosets.
Optimizing Symptom Relief and Preventing Complications in Adults with Gastro-Oesophageal Reflux Disease
Authors: Savarino Vincenzo , Dulbecco Pietro
Published: March 2004

Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) is a chronic illness causing recurrent typical and atypical symptoms. Possible complications include oesophagitis, ulcer, stricture and Barrett’s oesophagus. Evidence suggests that the intraoesophageal pH correlates directly with the degree of mucosal injury. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are the first choice of therapy because they are significantly more effective than histamine-2-receptor antagonists (H2RAs) in achieving and sustaining an intragastric pH above 4.0. Numerous trials have shown that PPIs provide superior and faster relief of heartburn compared with H2RAs. PPIs have also been shown to be superior to H2RAs in healing oesophageal ulcers and improving the clinical outcome of patients with stricture formation. Unfortunately, even higher-than-standard doses of PPIs do not provide a complete regression in the length of Barrett’s oesophagus, which is the most serious complication of GORD. Although the majority of patients with oesophagitis relapse within 6 months of stopping PPI therapy, maintenance PPI therapy prevents this in more than 80% of cases. Surgical and endoscopic procedures are alternative approaches to managing GORD. Surgery is successful but is not without risk. Endoscopic procedures are promising, but comparative and longer-term efficacy and safety data are needed.
Managing Gastro-Oesophageal Reflux Disease in the Older Patient
Authors: Hungin A. Pali S. , Raghunath Anan
Published: March 2004

Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) in older patients presents particular problems for the clinician. Older patients may present with complications rather than with symptoms, which may be less marked than in younger patients. Extraoesophageal symptoms are also more common in this group, and this may lead to confusion over the exact diagnosis. The increased likelihood of co-pathologies and concomitant medication complicate diagnosis and management further. GORD tends to be more severe for any level of symptom severity in the older patient. Erosive oesophagitis is more common among older people with GORD, meaning that this group is more likely to require aggressive therapy for both symptom relief and oesophagitis healing – full or high doses of acid suppression therapy may be necessary.
Cues for Perceived Pitch Register
Authors: Rietveld Toni , Vermillion Patricia
Published: March 2004

The aim of this experiment was to assess empirically listeners’ behaviour in characterising pitch contours with the label pitch register. The motivation for this assessment was initiated by the conflicting use of the term register in speech science and intonology. The findings reported here indicate that pitch register would more appropriately be associated with the position of the low pitch targets and the mean value of the tonal contour. In addition, the importance of the reference frequency (the lowest F₀ of a speaker) and the distance between H and L targets have been found to be weaker than previously assumed.
Speech Characteristics of Monozygotic Twins and a Same-Sex Sibling: An Acoustic Case Study of Coarticulation Patterns in Read Speech
Authors: Whiteside S.P. , Rixon E.
Published: March 2004

This case study reports on an acoustic investigation of the motor speech characteristics of a set of young adult male monozygotic (MZ) twins and compares them to those of an age- and sex-matched sibling who participated in the study 2 years later to match for demographic factors. Coarticulation patterns were investigated from read samples of consonant-vowel sequences in monosyllabic words containing a variety of consonants and vowels. This was done by examining F2 vowel onsets and F2 vowel targets, plotted as F2 locus equations. Data were processed for between-sibling differences using a number of statistical tests. Results indicated that the MZ twins displayed F2 parameters and coarticulation patterns which were more similar than those of their age- and sex-matched sibling. The results of this case study therefore suggest that acoustic phonetic parameters used to index coarticulation patterns have the potential to profile some of the similarities and differences in the speech characteristics of genetically related individuals.
Challenges in Managing NSAID-Associated Gastrointestinal Tract Injury
Authors: Goldstein Jay L.
Published: March 2004

The use of non-selective non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and/or aspirin is associated with upper gastrointestinal (UGI) tract injury, particularly in high-risk patients (e.g. those with prior upper GI ulcers and ulcer complications, individuals ≧ 65 years, or those using high-dose or multiple non-selective NSAIDs). Important management issues regarding NSAID-associated upper gastrointestinal toxicity include: (1) the optimal therapeutic approach to accelerate the healing of gastroduodenal ulcers that may become clinically apparent while using NSAIDs and (2) approaches to prevent the development of gastroduodenal ulcers and ulcer complications associated with their continued use. Clinical trials have reproducibly demonstrated that the healing of NSAID-associated gastric and duodenal ulcers is accelerated with the use of acid suppressive agents (e.g. histamine-2-receptor antagonists, H2RAs, and proton pump inhibitors, PPIs), even with the continued use of the NSAID. The risk of developing gastroduodenal ulcers or ulcer complications with the continued and long-term use of NSAIDs is now well recognised as an important problem commonly encountered in daily clinical practice. Clinical trials have shown that co-prescription of misoprostol, high-dose H2RAs or PPIs can effectively prevent or reduce the rate of gastroduodenal mucosal damage associated with the use of non-selective NSAIDs. Approaching the problem in a different way, COX-2-selective inhibitors circumvent the problem; based on their mechanism of action, these agents are less ulcerogenic in UGI tract as compared with non-selective NSAIDs. In a recently reported trial conducted in high-risk patients (past history of a NSAID-associated UGI ulcer bleed), the use of a COX-2-selective inhibitor or the combination of non-selective NSAID with a PPI resulted in similar efficacy and both strategies reduced the risk of a recurrent UGI event as compared to historical controls. Aspirin is an independent risk factor for UGI tract injury, even at the low doses used for cardiovascular prophylaxis. While a tremendous amount of research supports the use of preventative therapies and interventions to reduce and /or avoid NSAID- or aspirin-associated ulcers and ulcer complications in the UGI tract, these strategies are often times under-utilized, sub- optimally dosed, and/or are associated with poor patient compliance. This reinforces the need for continued clinician and patient education to improve our outcomes of care.
Neural Network Classification of Pediatric Posterior Fossa Tumors Using Clinical and Imaging Data
Authors: Bidiwala Shaad , Pittman Thomas
Published: March 2004

A neural network was developed that utilizes both clinical and imaging (CT and MRI) data to predict posterior fossa tumor (PFT) type. Data from 33 children with PFTs were used to develop and test the system. When all desired information was available, the network was able to correctly classify 85.7% of the tumors. In cases with incomplete data, it was able to correctly classify 72.7% of the tumors. In both instances, the diagnoses made by the network were more likely to be correct than those made by the neuroradiologists.
Intramedullary Mass Lesion of the Spinal Cord in Children of a Developing Milieu
Authors: Kumar Raj , Singh Vinita
Published: March 2004

A retrospective study of 22 children with intramedullary mass lesions (neoplastic and nonneoplastic) was performed to see the frequency of different histotypes of tumors/lesions and the functional outcome in Indian children. The age of the children varied from 1.5 to 16 years with a median of 8 years. The male to female ratio was 2.7:1. The children having a minimum follow-up of 3 months and a complete clinicopathological record were entered into this study. McCormick functional grading was applied retrospectively to assess the preoperative grade and postoperative functional outcome of the children. Histopathologically, these 22 cases were astrocytomas (n = 6, 27.3%), ependymomas (n = 3, 13.6%), dermoids (n = 3, 13.6%), epidermoids (n = 2, 9.1%), ependymal cysts (n = 2, 9.1%), and myxopapillary ependymoma, neurenteric cyst, ganglioglioma, teratoma, tuberculoma and anteriovenous malformation one each (4.55%). Near-total or gross-total resection was achieved in 13 (59%) and subtotal resection in 7 patients (32%), while complete excision of tuberculoma was achieved in 1 patient. Coagulation of perimedullary vessels was done in another single patient with anteriovenous malformations. Fourteen of the 22 cases having had functional grade IV or V preoperatively, improved to grade I or II (n = 7) and to grade III (n = 4, all astrocytomas) following surgery. Two patients died (1 within 2 days and 1 after 3 months due to recurrence of the tumor) and 1 case deteriorated at the follow-up of 4 months. Eight out of the 22 patients who had been admitted with functional grade II or III improved to grade I or II following surgery. The following conclusions were drawn after evaluation of these cases: (1) astrocytomas and ependymomas constituted only 50% of intramedullary tumors; (2) nonneoplastic, malformative tumors like dermoid and epidermoid showed a higher incidence (23%) in comparison with the Western World where all congenital intramedullary tumors (including dermoids and epidermoids) account for 5–8% only; (3) extremely rare cystic lesions like ependymal cyst and inflammatory granuloma may manifest as an intramedullary lesion; (4) even neurenteric cyst, though rare, may manifest as a pure intramedullary lesion without the stigmata of spinal dysraphism, and (5) delayed presentation was the cause of unfavorable outcome in a developing milieu.
In utero Spontaneous Cervical Thoracic Epidural Hematoma Imitating Spinal Cord Birth Injury
Authors: Blount Jeffrey , Doughty Kyle , Tubbs R. Shane , Wellons John C. , Reddy Alyssa , Law Charlie , Karle Virginia , Oakes W. Jerry
Published: March 2004

A neonate male born cesarian due to a breech presentation was noted to have no spontaneous movements of the limbs after delivery. Radiographs were not demonstrative of pathology. However, MRI revealed a large intraspinal mass with significant distortion of the cervicothoracic spinal cord. At operation, a brown, fibro-gelatinous, moderately adherent mass was evident extradurally dorsal to the spinal cord. It was noted to extend anterolaterally to the left such that the cord was deviated anteriorly and to the right. There was no indication of the mass being under pressure but the cord was not pulsatile. There was sufficient mass to the anterolateral component of the cord that it appeared rotated to the right within the canal. The right cervical roots exited dorsally, with a markedly lengthened course through the spinal canal before exiting above their respective pedicles. Histology was that of blood clot. The patient clinically demonstrated no neurologic improvement post-operatively. Now, six months after surgery, the patient has still had no significant change in clinical function. To our review, this is the first reported case of a spontaneous spinal epidural hematoma mimicking a birth-related spinal injury.
Pediatric Intracranial Complications of Central Venous Catheter Placement
Authors: Anderson Caitlin , Graupman Patrick C. , Hall Walter A. , Sweeny Mike , Lam Cornelius H.
Published: March 2004

Central venous catheters are essential in the medical management of critically ill pediatric patients. Medical practitioners should be aware of the potential for misplacement of these devices as such complications may result in serious injury and possible death. Catheter malpositioning is not limited to any particular site and may have far-reaching consequences that affect a single or multiple organ systems. We present two cases where central venous catheter positioning led to complications that resulted in intracranial pathology which was fatal in one case.
Hydrocephalus due to Diffuse Villous Hyperplasia of the Choroid Plexus
Authors: Fujimoto Yasunori , Matsushita Hamilton , Plese José Píndaro , Marino Jr. Raul
Published: March 2004

Diffuse villous hyperplasia of the choroid plexus (DVHCP) that causes hydrocephalus by overproduction of cerebrospinal fluid is a very rare lesion and difficult to diagnose initially. We present a male infant who was diagnosed with communicating hydrocephalus at 16 months of age and treated initially by ventriculoperitoneal shunt. In the postoperative course, he developed massive ascites. Magnetic resonance imaging obtained after the operation revealed DVHCP. Resection of the choroid plexus of the left lateral ventricle was performed, and postoperatively, his ascites was resolved. We review the literature and discuss the diagnosis and treatment of this rare entity.
Repression of Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH) Gene Expression by Melatonin May Involve Transcription Factors COUP-TFI and C/EBP Beta Binding at the GnRH Enhancer
Authors: Gillespie Julia M.A. , Roy Deboleena , Cui Hong , Belsham Denise D.
Published: March 2004

Melatonin activates membrane-bound G-protein-coupled receptors mt1 and MT2, but may also bind a family of orphan nuclear receptors, including RORα and RZRβ, representing another potential molecular mechanism of melatonin action. Recently, we demonstrated that melatonin downregulates gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) gene expression in the GT1–7 cell line, specifically at the level of the neuron-specific GnRH gene enhancer. In this study, we have examined the region located at –1736/–1728 of the GnRH enhancer shown to be involved in the repression of GnRH by melatonin. This region includes hexameric consensus binding sites for orphan nuclear receptors, including ROR/RZR and COUP-TFI, as well as other defined consensus binding sites for AP-1 and C/EBP. Using electrophoretic mobility shift analysis (EMSA), we have demonstrated that GT1–7 nuclear proteins bind specifically to this region of the GnRH enhancer to form 4 complexes. EMSA antibody supershift analysis indicates that the transcription factors COUP-TFI and C/EBP beta bind two specific complexes, but RORα, Oct-1, Pbx-1, c-fos, or c-jun antibodies failed to produce any detectable supershifts. These results provide the first evidence that melatonin may mediate its direct neuroendocrine control of GnRH gene expression through transcription factor binding at specific regions of the GnRH enhancer.
Genistein, a Phytoestrogen, Effectively Modulates Luteinizing Hormone and Prolactin Secretion in Ovariectomized Ewes during Seasonal Anestrus
Authors: Romanowicz Katarzyna , Misztal Tomasz , Barcikowski Bernard
Published: March 2004

Through binding with estrogen receptors, phytoestrogens, plant-derived estrogen-like compounds, affect numerous reproductive functions. It is not known whether these compounds are capable of evoking effective changes in luteinizing hormone (LH) and prolactin (PRL) secretion in ewes by acting directly within the central nervous system (CNS). The hypothesis studied was that genistein, infused for several hours into the third ventricle, could immediately affect LH and PRL secretion in ovariectomized (OVX) ewes during seasonal anestrus. Two doses of genistein, 1 µg/100 µl/h (total 4 µg, n = 7) and 10 µg/100 µl/h (total 40 µg, n = 7), were infused intracerebroventricularly from 12.00 to 16.00 h and blood samples were collected from 8.00 to 20.00 h at 10-min intervals. Randomly selected ewes were infused with a vehicle (control, n = 5). The mean plasma LH concentration in control ewes was significantly (p < 0.01) higher during infusion of the vehicle than before the infusion. It remained on an insignificantly changed level after the infusion. The frequency of LH pulses in control ewes did not differ significantly before, during, or after vehicle infusion. In ewes infused with a lower dose of genistein, plasma LH concentrations decreased significantly (p < 0.001) after the infusion, as compared with the values noted before and during genistein infusion. Only a tendency towards a decrease in LH pulse frequency occurred after infusion of a lower dose of genistein. In ewes infused with a higher dose of genistein, the plasma LH concentration decreased significantly (p < 0.01) after phytoestrogen administration as compared with the values noted before and during infusion. The frequency of LH pulses was also significantly (p < 0.01) lower after genistein administration. Because the changes in PRL secretion were more dynamic in response to genistein infusion, the statistical analysis included 2-hour periods. The mean plasma PRL concentration in control animals was significantly enhanced (p < 0.01) only during the first 2-hour period of sampling. After that it decreased and remained on an unchanged level up to the end of sampling. Similar changes in PRL secretion were observed in both experimental groups before genistein infusion. In contrast, significant (p < 0.01 to p < 0.001) increases in PRL concentration were noted regularly during and shortly after the genistein infusion in either low-dose or high-dose genistein-infused ewes, compared with the concentrations noted before genistein treatment. Plasma PRL concentrations during and after genistein infusion in both experimental groups were also significantly higher than the control (p < 0.01 to p < 0.001). The presented data demonstrate that genistein, a phytoestrogen, may effectively modulate LH and PRL secretion in OVX ewes by acting within the CNS.
Neuropeptide Y Gene Expression in Male Sheep: Influence of Photoperiod and Testosterone
Authors: Dobbins Adam , Lubbers Laura S. , Jackson Gary L. , Kuehl David E. , Hileman Stanley M.
Published: March 2004

The frequency of pulsatile release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) is high in the breeding season and low in the nonbreeding season. These alterations in the patterns of GnRH and LH release are due to an interaction of daylength and gonadal steroid negative feedback. A vast amount of data indicates that steroid-responsive neural systems may play a role in regulating seasonal changes in GnRH release. One candidate system is neuropeptide Y (NPY). To determine the independent and interactive influences of photoperiod and steroid exposure on NPY mRNA levels, we used hypothalamic tissue from four groups (n = 4 per group) of castrated male sheep that were simultaneously housed in photochambers and exposed to: (1) a 16L:8D photoperiod (LD); (2) LD and implanted with testosterone (LD + T); (3) a 10L:14D photoperiod (SD), and (4) SD + T. Circulating levels of T averaged 2.8 ± 0.2 ng/ml in implanted animals, but were undetectable in nonimplanted males. Mean LH levels were significantly reduced (p < 0.01) in the LD + T group as compared with the other groups which did not differ from each other. The silver grain area per NPY neuron in the arcuate nucleus, as assessed by in situ hybridization, was inversely related to mean LH values, with the grain area per cell being significantly greater (p < 0.05) for LD + T males than for all other groups which did not differ from each other. NPY cell numbers were not significantly different (p > 0.10) among the treatment groups. These results show that NPY mRNA expression is increased in male sheep during a LD photoperiod in a T-dependent manner. Our data are consistent with the idea that NPY is involved in the seasonal regulation of GnRH and LH release in the male sheep.
Developmental Expression of Neurotensin in Thyrotropes and Gonadotropes of Male and Female Rats
Authors: Bello A.R. , Reyes R. , Hernández G. , Negrín I. , González M. , Tramu G. , Alonso R.
Published: March 2004

Besides its potential roles as a central neuromodulator or a hypothalamic neurohormone, neurotensin (NT) may also have endocrine function in the anterior pituitary of mammals. We previously found that NT immunoreactivity is present in the secretory granules of gonadotropes and thyrotropes in both male and female rats, where its levels of expression are under the control of sex steroids. In this work, using immunocytochemistry and in situ hybridization, we have studied the postnatal development of NT-like immunoreactivity (NTir) and the mRNA encoding NT (mRNA-NT) in specific anterior pituitary cells of both male and female rats. NT expression starts after birth and displays an identical pattern in both sexes until sexual maturity, with mRNA-NT being detected from day 2 of postnatal life in thyrotropes localized in the central portion of the anterior lobe. This pattern of expression develops progressively throughout the 2nd and 3rd weeks in both sexes. By the beginning of the 3rd week, mRNA-NT can also be detected in gonadotropes localized in the periphery of the gland coinciding with a rise in serum estradiol concentrations in both sexes, and by day 21, mRNA-NT is extensively present in both the periphery and the central region. NTir is observed from days 5–6 in thyrotropes predominantly localized in the central portion of the anterior lobe, and by day 21, NTir is also detected in gonadotropes localized in the periphery of the gland. This pattern remains similar in both sexes until the time of puberty, when female rats start displaying plastic changes in NT expression according to the stage of the estrous cycle. These findings indicate that NT expression in the rat anterior pituitary is cell specific, and develops from birth to adulthood under the control of sex steroid hormones. In addition, preliminary data showing the presence of NT receptors in rat pituitary cells support the hypothesis of a paracrine or an autocrine role for this peptide within the pituitary.
Effect of Neonatal Handling and Sex on Basal and Chronic Stress-Induced Corticosterone and Leptin Secretion
Authors: Panagiotaropoulos Theofanis , Papaioannou Agapi , Pondiki Stavroula , Prokopiou Achilleas , Stylianopoulou Fotini , Gerozissis Kyriaki
Published: March 2004

Neonatal handling is an experimental paradigm for early experiences. It affects the programming of hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis function, known to be sexually dimorphic. Recently leptin, a hormone related to energy balance and secreted mainly by adipocytes, has been implicated in the stress response. We thus determined the effect of neonatal handling on plasma concentrations of corticosterone and leptin of male and female rats under basal conditions and after two consecutive chronic stressors: chronic forced swimming stress and chronic restraint. Handling resulted in lower basal corticosterone levels in both males and females and in a more efficient HPA response, with a large corticosterone surge following the first chronic stressor and a return to basal levels following the second. Handling also resulted in decreased plasma leptin concentrations in males, thus abolishing the sex difference in leptin levels. Furthermore, handling increased body weight while it decreased food intake under basal conditions. Food intake and body weight gain during chronic forced swimming was lower in handled than in non-handled males, while in females these parameters were not influenced by handling. In both males and females, handling resulted in decreased food intake and increased body weight loss during chronic restraint stress. Body weight loss during chronic restraint stress, which is considered an index of maladaptation and ‘depression’, was particularly pronounced in the handled females. Our results also showed that non-handled females had higher corticosterone and lower leptin levels than males under basal conditions and following each of the two chronic stressors. The present work suggests that early experiences, such as the mother–infant relationship, interact with endogenous factors, such as gonadal hormones, to determine the organism’s response to stressful stimuli during adulthood.
Orexigenic Actions of Ghrelin in Goldfish: Feeding-Induced Changes in Brain and Gut mRNA Expression and Serum Levels, and Responses to Central and Peripheral Injections
Authors: Unniappan Suraj , Canosa Luis Fabián , Peter Richard E.
Published: March 2004

In this study, we examined (i) the preprandial, postprandial and starvation-induced changes in the preproghrelin mRNA expression and serum ghrelin levels, and (ii) the effects of intracerebroventricular and intraperitoneal administration of ghrelin on food intake in goldfish. Slot blot analysis revealed a significant postprandial decrease in preproghrelin mRNA expression in the hypothalamus (1 and 3 h after feeding) and gut (3 h after feeding). A similar postprandial decrease (1 and 3 h after feeding) in serum ghrelin levels was also detected. In the fish that were unfed at the regular feeding time, the hypothalamic preproghrelin mRNA expression and the serum ghrelin levels remained unchanged, while the preproghrelin mRNA expression in the gut decreased 3 h after the regular feeding time. Starvation increased preproghrelin mRNA expression in the hypothalamus and gut on the 7th day. Serum ghrelin levels were significantly elevated on days 3 and 5 of starvation. Intracerebroventricular injections of n-octanoylated ghrelin-like peptides (gGRL[1–12]) (10 ng/g body weight) and human ghrelin (1 and 10 ng/g body weight) and intraperitoneal injections of n-octanoylated gGRL[1–12] (10 ng/g body weight), gGRL[1–19] (100 ng/g body weight) and human ghrelin (10 and 100 ng/g body weight) stimulated food intake in goldfish. The patterns of synthesis, secretion and actions indicate that ghrelin is an orexigen in goldfish.
Heat Shock Preconditioning and Eicosanoid Pathways Modulate Caspase 3-Like Activity in Superficially Injured Isolated Guinea Pig Gastric Mucosa
Authors: Oksala N. , Alhava E. , Paimela H.
Published: March 2004

Background: After superficial mucosal injury, the disturbed gastric epithelial continuity is restored by cellular migration. Caspase-3 is an enzyme responsible for the execution of stress-induced apoptosis. Interestingly, heat shock proteins (Hsp) including Hsp60 are capable of modulating caspase-3 activity. Interestingly, we have demonstrated that heat shock preconditioning upregulates Hsp synthesis and inhibits restitution and cell proliferation via mechanisms related to de novo protein synthesis and eicosanoid pathways, both of which are crucial in the regulation of apoptosis and gastric mucosal defense systems. Aims: To assess whether caspase-3 activity is affected by heat shock preconditioning and associated pharmacological modulations after standard superficial injury to allow development of cytoprotective strategies. Methods: Guinea pig gastric mucosae were mounted and perfused in paired Ussing chambers. After heat shock (HS) preconditioning (42°C) for 30 min, a superficial injury was induced (1.25 mol/l NaCl) followed by 3 h recovery. For mechanistic studies, the mucosa was exposed to 30 µmol/l arachidonic acid (AA) as a substrate for eicosanoid pathways, to 50 µmol/l quercetin (Q) to inhibit lipoxygenases, to 50 µmol/l indomethacin (In) to inhibit cyclo-oxygenases, or to 150 µmol/l cycloheximide (CHX) to inhibit de novo protein synthesis. After the experiment, the mucosa was prepared for analysis of caspase-3 activity. Hsp60 expression was analyzed to monitor the induction of heat shock response. Results: HS upregulated Hsp60 expression, indicating induction of the heat shock response without an effect on basal caspase-3 activity. Superficial injury itself did not affect caspase-3 activity nor Hsp60 synthesis. In all the experiments, exposure to CHX abolished caspase-3 activity and Hsp60 synthesis. AA+Q increased, Q decreased, while In+AA and In+AA+Q abolished caspase-3 activity independent of alterations in Hsp60 synthesis. Upon exposure to In+Q, HS decreased caspase-3 activity and upregulated Hsp60 synthesis. Conclusion: Caspase-3 activity in isolated guinea pig gastric mucosa is regulated by mechanisms dependent on de novo protein synthesis and eicosanoid pathways but is not strictly related to Hsp synthesis. Upon modulation of the eicosanoid pathways, HS may be utilized to simultaneously decrease caspase-3 activity and increase Hsp synthesis. Modulations of the eicosanoid pathways may be utilized to reduce caspase-3 activity also upon normothermic conditions suggesting a novel mechanism by which caspase-3 is regulated in the gastric mucosa.
Positive Effect of Treatment with Synthetic Steroid Hormone Tibolon on Intimal Hyperplasia and Restenosis after Experimental Endothelial Injury of Rabbit Carotid Artery
Authors: Nanobashvili J. , Prager M. , Jozkowicz A. , Neumayer C. , Fügl A. , Blumer R. , Cabaj A. , Wrba F. , Polterauer P. , Huk I.
Published: March 2004

Background: Arterial intimal hyperplasia and following restenosis may be inhibited by estrogens. We investigated the effect of a synthetic steroid hormone, Tibolon: (a) on intima hyperplasia and restenosis in vivo, and (b) on production of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), endothelial cell proliferation and apoptosis in vitro. Methods: Influence of Tibolon treatment (0.1 mg/kg body weight, during 3 days before and 3 weeks after the operation as a drinking solution once daily) on neointimal formation (measured by morphometry) and arterial wall damage (by qualitative histology) were investigated in vivo using an animal model of balloon injury of carotid artery. In human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) and human microvascular endothelial cells (HMEC-1), the effect of Tibolon (0.1 µg/ml) on eNOS and VEGF was assessed by ELISA. Cell proliferation was induced by VEGF165 and measured by BrdU incorporation assay, cell apoptosis was detected colorimetrically measuring DNA fragmentation. Results: Balloon injury resulted in neointima formation and prominent damage of the carotid artery wall. Treatment with Tibolon increased luminal area, decreased intimal area and intima to media ratio, and promoted better reparation of damaged vessel wall. In vitro, Tibolon treatment did not influence the expression of eNOS protein in HUVEC as well as cell proliferation rate but reduced apoptosis of endothelial cells by about 40%. Additionally, this treatment suppressed basal and IL-1β-stimulated synthesis of VEGF in HMEC-1. Conclusions: Tibolon treatment suppressed neointimal formation and promoted better reparation of damaged vessel wall in carotid artery after balloon injury. This positive effect seems to be associated with improved endothelial cell survival resulting possibly in increased NO production. It might be also related to the decrease of VEGF generation.
Feasibility of Veno-Venous Bypass Surgery Using Leukocyte Adhesion Filters during Abdominal Surgery in a Porcine Model
Authors: Frühauf N.R. , Oldhafer K.J. , Kaiser G.M. , Kaudel C.P. , Broelsch C.E.
Published: March 2004

During oncologic surgery, manipulation of tumour tissue is almost unpreventable; liver resection even carries a higher risk of tumour cell dissemination into venous blood. Under in vitro conditions, a tumour cell reducing effect of some leukocyte adhesion filter systems has been shown. In a preclinical porcine model, these filters were used as integrated parts of a veno-venous bypass system used for liver surgery, run by a biopump. Practicability, handling and safety aspects of the filter system were analysed; the system was easy and safe to handle, and treated animals survived without any complications. For the future, effectiveness of the tumour cell depletion has to be examined in further experimental and clinical studies.
Biliary Lesions during Radiofrequency Ablation in Liver
Authors: Marchal F. , Elias D. , Rauch P. , Leroux A. , Stinès J. , Verhaeghe J.L. , Guillemin F. , Villemot J.P.
Published: March 2004

Background: Radiofrequency (RF) is a method of in situ destruction of liver tumor. Biliary complications are bile ducts stenosis or biliary abcess. The aim of this work was to study consequences of liver RF on bile ducts. Methods: A porcine model of biliary lesions was created using radiofrequency ablation liver. Twenty-two pigs were used for the study. The RF RITA 1500 generator (RITA Medical Systems, Mountain View, Calif., USA) was used for all experiments. The needle was positioned under sonographic control in liver parenchyma beside bile ducts. Two lesions were performed in left liver. Four groups of 5 pigs were treated. The pigs were sacrificed 1 or 3 weeks after the procedure. Pringle maneuver was utilized in half of the RF procedures. An ex vivo cholangiogram was obtained by direct injection into the main bile duct. Samples of RF lesions of liver parenchyma near and at a distance from the RF lesions were taken for pathological studies. Results: Radiological lesions were biliary stenosis, with or without upstream bile duct dilatation, or complete interruption of the bile duct, or extravasation of the radiological contrast agent. Histological lesions of bile ducts were observed near RF lesions and at distance of the RF lesions when a Pringle maneuver was used or when the liver was removed after 3 weeks. Conclusions: RF ablation in contact of the intrahepatic bile duct induced biliary lesions. Therefore, it is required to stay away from the bile duct or to protect it when performing RF ablation.
Evaluation of Thermoreversible Gelation Polymer for Regeneration of Focal Liver Injury
Authors: Nagaya M. , Kubota S. , Suzuki N. , Tadokoro M. , Akashi K.
Published: March 2004

Liver injuries are often associated with complications including infection of the dead space, bleeding, leakage of bile and so on. We have recently developed a thermoreversible gelation polymer (TGP) which provides a good healing environment for wounds and possibly reduces complications. The purpose of this study was to evaluate whether adequate regeneration occurred with a liver defect by using TGP. The sol-gel transition of TGP is reversibly controlled by temperature; TGP is soluble below a lower critical solution temperature (LCST) of 22°C, and becomes solid above the LCST. Soluble TGP can reach anywhere, and gelation of TGP occurs at the wound surface by body temperature to fill the wound/cavity. A section of median part of the left lobe comprising 3% (2 × 2 cm wide and 1 cm deep) of the liver was resected, and the Beagle dogs were assigned to three groups: ‘resection alone group’, ‘resection + fibrin glue (FG) group’ and ‘resection + TGP group’. The resection alone group and the resection + FG group showed severe fibrosis at week 12, and a scarring was clearly visible. The resection + TGP group showed almost complete healing by week 4, with no adhesion and recession of the wound; the resection site was completely filled with TGP, liver-like capsule organoids emerged to cover the wound and neovascularization was observed within the organoids. Furthermore, the resected liver regenerated completely by week 12, TGP was replaced by hepatocytes, and the presence of hepatic lobules confirmed structural reorganization. The number of RCA-1-positive macrophages accumulating around the wound was significantly reduced in the resection + TGP group compared to the other two groups. In the early stage of liver resection and regeneration, TGP seemed to suppress the accumulation of macrophages and stellate cells. In the late stage, when massive inflammatory cell accumulation had subsided, TGP was degraded, that may contribute to avoid unnecessary inhibition of the liver regeneration process. Collectively, TGP may induce efficient regeneration by reducing the fibrosis and enhancing proliferation, even with a minor liver defect. Because TGP has good biocompatibility, it may become useful as an ideal biomaterial for the treatment of liver injuries.
Surgical Mesh as a Scaffold for Tissue Regeneration in the Esophagus
Authors: Lynen Jansen Petra , Klinge U. , Anurov M. , Titkova Svetlana , Mertens P.R. , Jansen M.
Published: March 2004

Background: Textiles in the form of surgical meshes are widely used in hernia surgery. Their porous structure allows tissue infiltration to incorporate the fabric for complete healing and device stabilization. This study was aimed to reconstitute the esophageal wall and to investigate the functional and histological consequences of a new, non-absorbable polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) mesh and an absorbable polyglactin 910 (Vicryl®) mesh. Methods: Semicircular esophageal defects of 0.5 × 1 cm were created 2 cm proximal of the cardia in 10 rabbits. This gap was bridged using either polyglactin 910 or PVDF and additionally covered by omental wrapping. The clinical outcome was observed by clinical observation, regular esophagoscopies and X-ray contrast medium examinations. Local tissue regeneration was verified by light microscopy and immunohistochemistry. Results: After an observation period of 3 months we found no anastomotic strictures, complete mucosal regeneration, minimal inflammation reaction and initial regeneration of the muscle layer for the PVDF group. Within the polyglactin 910 group, three patch failures with consecutive anastomotic leakage occurred. Conclusion: The results indicate that PVDF mesh structure gives the opportunity of local tissue regeneration in the esophagus. Though re-epithelialization and muscle cell ingrowth could be detected for absorbable polyglactin 910 mesh, this implant was accompanied by a high and early rate of anastomotic leakage.
Comparison of Early Postoperative Enteral Nutrients versus Chow on Colonic Anastomotic Healing in Normal Animals
Authors: Cihan A. , Oguz M. , Acun Z. , Uçan B.H. , Armutcu Ferah , Gürel A. , Ulukent S.C.
Published: March 2004

We aimed to clarify the effects of different enteral nutrients (normal chow, complete balanced nutrition, elemental nutrition enriched with glutamine, immune-enhancing diet and fiber) on colonic anastomotic healing in the stress-free metabolic state. The study was carried out with 50 male Balb-C mice in five groups of 10 animals each. After transverse colon anastomosis, animals were fed with early enteral nutrients using normal chow (group 1), Ensure® (group 2), Alitraq® (group 3), Impact® (group 4), and Benefiber Resource® orange juice drink (group 5) for 7 days. There were no significant differences among the groups in bursting pressure (p > 0.05). There was no statistical difference in terms of hydroxyproline level among groups 1–3. The hydroxyproline levels of groups 4 and 5 were statistically higher than that of the control group (p < 0.05 for both comparisons). Under normal conditions without stress, we could not demonstrate the superior effects of early enteral feeding with specialized enteral preparations over normal diets on colonic anastomoses when the bursting pressures were compared.