bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Nitric Oxide Synthases on Detrusor Overactivity after Removal of Bladder Outlet Obstruction in Rats
Authors: Kim H.S. , Kim J.C. , Choo M.S.
Published: July 2008

Objectives: Nitric oxide is a neurotransmitter that is related to overactive bladder. This study was undertaken to evaluate the expression of nitric oxide synthases (NOS) in relation to bladder function after the removal of the bladder outlet obstruction in rats. Materials and Methods: 50 rats were divided into a control group (n = 10) and an experimental group (n = 40). The bladders in the experimental group were partially obstructed for 3 weeks. 3 weeks after removal, cystometrograms (CMG) were performed. On the basis of CMG results, the experimental group was subdivided into ‘normalized’ and ‘overactive’ groups. Expression of neuronal, inducible, and endothelial NOS mRNA in bladders of each group was analyzed by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Results: On the CMG, the contraction interval of the overactive group was markedly decreased. RT-PCR results showed significantly decreased expression of nNOS and iNOS mRNA in the normalized group compared to the control group, and increased nNOS levels in the overactive group, compared to the normalized group (p < 0.05). A marked increase in eNOS mRNA expression was evident in the normalized and overactive groups compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Our results clearly show increases in nNOS and eNOS expression according to bladder function, which may be related to a persistently overactive bladder or irritative symptoms, following the removal of a bladder outlet obstruction.
Collecting Duct Renal Cell Carcinoma: Two Different Clinical Stages, Two Different Clinical Outcomes
Authors: Vázquez-Lavista L.G. , Uribe-Uribe N. , Gabilondo-Navarro F.
Published: July 2008

Collecting duct carcinoma (CDC) of Bellini is a rare variant of renal cell carcinoma. It tends to be more aggressive when locally advanced or when having distant spread on diagnosis. The only favorable prognosis factor is low-stage, low-grade, with disease-free survival reported up to 5 years. We reviewed our renal cell carcinoma database and found 2 cases of CDC, namely 1 young female with locally advanced disease with supraclavicular metastasis and a dismissal prognosis, and 1 male with localized disease with 10-year disease-free survival.
Ovarian Type Surface Epithelial Carcinoma of the Testis with Delayed Metastatic Spread
Authors: Maruschke M. , Schmidt W. , Casper J. , Hakenberg O.W.
Published: July 2008

Ovarian type surface epithelial carcinomas of the testis and paratestis are rare. The most frequent form is the serous subtype while only a few cases of the mucinous subtype have been reported in the literature. A 67-year-old patient with a mucinous ovarian type surface carcinoma of the testis is presented. The histopathological and immunohistochemical details of this rare lesion are discussed.
Scrotal Reconstruction Using Thigh Pedicle Flaps after Scrotal Skin Avulsion
Authors: Gudaviciene Daiva , Milonas Daimantas
Published: July 2008

Major scrotal and penile skin loss is uncommon and management of such an injury is a challenging problem for genitourinary reconstruction surgeons. Less than 50% scrotal skin loss can often be closed without difficulties immediately after trauma with surrounding tissue. In cases of more significant skin loss, the testes may be preserved by placing them in thigh pouches or dressed with wet dressings until reconstruction, or split thickness skin grafting can be performed. The surgeon’s decision depends on the cause of skin loss – trauma, Fournier‘s gangrene or others. We describe a case of massive scrotal and penile skin loss due to an incident with an agricultural machine. The scrotal reconstruction, performed in three steps, was chosen because of its simplicity, early closure of the wound, excellent cosmetic appearance and maintenance of sexual functions. In the first step the penis was covered with remnant scrotal and preputium skin, and the testes were placed in thigh pouches. Incision of thigh flaps was planned to perform the second step and finally scrotal reconstruction with thigh pedicle flaps was done. Results were satisfactory from an esthetical and functional point of view.
Endoscopic Fetal Urethrotomy for Anterior Urethral Valves: A Preliminary Report
Authors: Sago Haruhiko , Hayashi Satoshi , Chiba Toshio , Ueoka Katsuhiko , Matsuoka Kentaro , Nakagawa Atsuko , Kitagawa Michihiro
Published: July 2008

Anterior urethral valves are a rare congenital anomaly associated with distal urethral obstruction, which can result in a poor prognosis. We report on the endoscopic creation of a fetal urethrotomy for obstructive uropathy resulting from anterior urethral valves. A 33-year-old woman was evaluated at 17 weeks gestation due to fetal megacystis. The diagnosis of anterior urethral valves was confirmed by the characteristic sonographic feature of a dilated membranous penile urethra. Oligohydramnios with normal-appearing kidneys and favorable urinary electrolytes led to fetal intervention. Ablation on the ventral site of the fetal penis for a cutaneous urethrotomy was performed using a YAG laser under a 1-mm fetoscope at 19 weeks gestation. Urine was drained from the incision and the dilated penis and the distended bladder shrunk with an increase in amniotic fluid. However, the fetus died unexpectedly on postoperative day 3, and chorioamnionitis was suspected as the etiology. While the outcome was unfavorable, our preliminary experience shows that fetal urethrotomy for obstructive uropathy can be achieved in utero using an endoscopic laser approach. Further experience will be required to evaluate the therapeutic value of this new procedure in the management of fetal anterior urethral valves.
An Echo-Poor Spine at 13 Weeks: An Early Sign of Cleidocranial Dysplasia
Authors: Hove H.D. , Hermann N.V. , Jørgensen C. , Kreiborg S. , Sundberg K.
Published: July 2008

Objective: Early prenatal diagnosis of cleidocranial dysplasia (CCD) in a case in which molecular genetic analysis of the RUNX2 gene was non-informative. Methods: 2D ultrasound examination. Results: At week 13+6, a 2D ultrasound examination revealed a fetus with severely delayed ossification of the vertebral spine. The clavicles were barely seen and the calvarial bones were significantly less ossified than expected for gestational age. The fetus had otherwise normal anatomy and biometry. Serial ultrasound examinations during pregnancy confirmed the diagnosis, but the manifestations became less distinct. The diagnosis was confirmed clinically at birth. Conclusion: This case illustrates an early easily recognizable pattern of severely delayed ossification of the vertebral spine, which is probably a characteristic of CCD.
Umbilical Cord Ulceration after Prenatal Diagnosis of Duodenal Atresia with Interstitial Deletion of Chromosome 13q: A Case Report
Authors: Miyake Hidehiko , Yamamoto Akihito , Yamada Takashi , Okazaki Kaoru , Morita Kiyoko , Kondo Masatoshi , Ishida Takafumi , Nishina Takako , Yokota Akishige , Nakai Akihito , Takeshita Toshiyuki
Published: July 2008

Umbilical cord ulceration complicated by massive local hemorrhage may be a lethal event in the fetus, and this ulceration has been reported to be associated with upper intestinal atresia. The diagnosis of umbilical cord bleeding is difficult. We present a case of umbilical cord ulceration, hemorrhage, and duodenal atresia which had, in addition, an interstitial deletion of chromosome 13q. A female infant weighing 1,691 g was delivered by cesarean section at 34 weeks of gestation and had resuscitation and laparotomy. Just before the cesarean section, ultrasonography showed a ‘double bubble’ sign and a linear shadow, suggesting fibrin in the amniotic cavity. This finding may help in the diagnosis of bleeding from the cord.
Examination of the Fetal Heart by Four-Dimensional Ultrasound with Spatiotemporal Image Correlation during Routine Second-Trimester Examination: The ‘Three-Steps Technique’
Authors: Rizzo Giuseppe , Capponi Alessandra , Muscatello Andrea , Cavicchioni Ottavia , Vendola Marianne , Arduini Domenico
Published: July 2008

Objective: To prospectively analyze theaccuracy and rapidity of four-dimensional (4D) ultrasonography with spatiotemporal image correlation (STIC) in the assessment of four-chamber view and outflow tracts in unselected fetuses and in fetuses with congenital heart defects (CHD) at 19–23 weeksof gestation. Materials and Methods: 112 consecutive pregnancies undergoing routine second-trimester ultrasonographic scan and 10 pregnancies with fetuses with CHD affecting the great arteries formed the study group. From the four-chamber view, volumes of the fetal heart were acquired by the STIC technique and stored for a later offline analysis that was performed by two examiners blinded to the characteristics of the fetuses. Offline analysis was performed using a simplified multiplanar approach based on 3 different steps and one rotation finalized to visualize the four-chamber view and the left and right outflow tracts. Results: Adequate recognition of four-chamber view and outflow tracts was obtained in more than 80% of the volumes. There were no false-positives and only one observer had a false-negative (interrupted aortic arch classified as normal). The mean time required to interpret 4D volumes was 3.7 min. Conclusions: The standard fetal cardiac anatomy survey can be performed in the second-trimester fetus by 4D STIC in both normal and abnormal hearts. This approach may reduce the operator’s dependency in diagnosis of CHD.
Estimation of Fetal Weight: Accuracy of Regression Models versus Accuracy of Ultrasound Data
Authors: Pineau J.C. , Grange G. , Kapitaniak B. , Vayssiere C. , Tomikowski J. , Guihard-Costa A.M.
Published: July 2008

Objectives: To determine the respective importance of equation accuracy and variability in interexaminer measurements in estimation of fetal weight (EFW). Methods: The study included 3 samples from three different French maternity hospitals. Sample 1 (6,508 fetuses) was used to compute a new linear regression model estimating fetal weight (FW) from ultrasound measurements. Sample 2, with 705 fetuses, was used to compare the accuracy of the new equation with Hadlock’s equation. Sample 3 (1,461 fetuses) was used to assess – from our equation and from Hadlock’s – the estimation errors due to the variability of ultrasound measurements recorded by 11 distinct examiners. Accuracy was determined by the signed percent difference (%Diff). Statistical analysis included the F test for correlated variances and comparisons of correlated variances. Results: The random error of our model is 6.8%, significantly lower (p < 0.01) than Hadlock’s which is around 7.4% (8.9% for low FW and 7.4% for high FW). The variability of ultrasound measurements among the different examiners in sample 3 generated a significant variation (p < 0.01) in the random error, ranging from 6.7 to 12.5%. This significant variation was also observed using Hadlock’s equation for the same sample (from 7.2 to 12%). Conclusion: The accuracy of EFW depends much more on the quality of ultrasound measurements than on the choice of equation. Nevertheless, optimizing the accuracy of EFW (about 6.7–6.8%) imperatively requires standardized data collecting.
Thalamic Neurons in the Pigeon Compute Distance-to-Collision of an Approaching Surface
Authors: Liu Rui-Feng , Niu Yu-Qiong , Wang Shu-Rong
Published: July 2008

The thalamofugal and tectofugal pathways in birds are two parallel visual pathways to the telencephalon and might be comparable to the geniculocortical and colliculo-pulvinar-cortical pathways in mammals, respectively. It is known that some tectal neurons in the tectofugal pathway can signal the time-to-collision of an approaching object. Here we show by single cell recording in the pigeon that a population of visual neurons in the nucleus opticus principalis thalami (nOPT) in the thalamofugal pathway is able to detect the distance-to-collision of a large surface approaching towards the animal. These neurons began response firing when the surface reached a threshold distance to the viewing eye and thereafter their firing rates increased exponentially until collision occurred at distance = zero. The response onset distance is nearly constant for a wide range of stimulus velocities and is equal to the product of velocity of approaching stimulus and response onset time of a nOPT cell. Furthermore, onset distance of looming responses in nOPT cells is close to that causing cardioacceleration in the pigeon viewing the approaching surface. It appears that nOPT and tectal neurons are dichotomized functionally to a large extent for detecting imminent dangers, and the pigeon’s ability to compute the distance-to-collision of an approaching surface may benefit avoiding large obstacles during flight.
Characterization of the Shark Myelin Po Protein
Authors: Rotenstein L. , Herath K. , Gould R.M. , de Bellard M.E.
Published: July 2008

Myelin, the insulating sheath made by extensive plasma membrane wrapping, is dependent on the presence of highly adhesive molecules that keep the two sides of the membrane in tight contact. The Po glycoprotein (Po) is the major component of the peripheral nervous system (PNS) myelin of mammals. The exact role that Po protein has played in the evolution of myelin is still unclear, but several phylogenetic observations suggest that it is a crucial component in the development of myelin as a multi-lamellar membrane structure. Sharks, which appeared in the fossil record about 400 million years ago, are the first fully myelinated organisms. In this study we investigated the expression pattern of shark myelin Po to suggest a way it might have played a role in the evolution of myelin in the central nervous system. We found that sharks have more than two isoforms (32, 28 and 25 kD), and that some of these might not be fully functional because they lack the domains known for Po homophilic adhesion.
Adenoviral Gene Therapy for Pancreatic Cancer: Where Do We Stand?
Authors: Kuhlmann Koert F.D. , Gouma Dirk J. , Wesseling John G.
Published: July 2008

Background: The prognosis of patients with pancreatic cancer is poor. This is mainly caused by the late diagnosis, the aggressive biology and the lack of effective treatment modalities. Adenoviral gene therapy has the potential to selectively treat both primary tumor and (micro)metastatic tissue. Methods: This review provides an overview of what has been achieved so far in the field of adenoviral gene therapy for pancreatic cancer. Results: Transductional targeting allows decreased toxicity due to vector dissemination to non-target cells and permits delivery with a lower viral dose. It can evade or diminish the immune response, which remains a major problem. Transcriptional targeting evolves quickly but essential drawbacks such as the lack of an efficient animal model delay clinical application. Few clinical trials utilizing adenoviruses have been performed in patients with pancreatic cancer today. Worldwide, only seven phase III trials are being performed investigating adenoviral vectors in cancer patients. Conclusion: A clear therapeutic effect of adenoviral gene therapy in pancreatic cancer has not yet been achieved, because the step from bench to bedside has encountered drawbacks. Combinations of the different targeting strategies and techniques to evade the immune system harbor the future for adenoviral gene therapy in patients with pancreatic cancer.
Temperament and Personality Dimensions in Suicidal and Nonsuicidal Psychiatric Inpatients
Authors: Pompili Maurizio , Rihmer Zoltán , Akiskal Hagop S. , Innamorati Marco , Iliceto Paolo , Akiskal Kareen K. , Lester David , Narciso Valentina , Ferracuti Stefano , Tatarelli Roberto , De Pisa Eleonora , Girardi Paolo
Published: July 2008

Background: Suicide is a serious public health problem. In the international literature there is evidence to support the notion that certain temperaments and personality traits are often associated with suicidal behavior. Sampling and Methods: In this study, 150 psychiatric inpatients were investigated using the Temperament Evaluation of Memphis, Pisa, Paris and San Diego autoquestionnaire, the Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory, 2nd edition (MMPI-2) and the Beck Hopelessness Scale and evaluated for suicide risk by means of the critical items of the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview. Results: Statistical analysis, including logistic regression analysis and multiple regression analysis, showed that suicide risk contributed to the prediction of hopelessness. Among the temperaments, only the hyperthymic temperament, as a protective factor, and the dysthymic/cyclothymic/anxious temperament contributed significantly to the prediction of hopelessness. Irritable temperament and social introversion were predictive factors for suicidal risk. Hopelessness and depression were associated with higher suicidal behavior and ideation, but, unexpectedly, depression as measured by the MMPI did not contribute significantly to the multiple regressions. Conclusions: The present study indicated that, although suicidal psychiatric patients have MMPI-2 profiles in the pathological range, they exhibit several differences from nonsuicidal patients. Patients at risk of suicide have specific temperaments as well as personality and defense mechanism profiles. They are more socially introverted, depressed and psychasthenic, and use hysterical and schizoid mechanisms more often. Generalizability of the findings was limited by the small sample size and the mix of bipolar disorder I, bipolar disorder II, major depressive disorder and psychotic disorder patients.
The Regulatory System in Europe with Special Emphasis on Allergen Products
Authors: Lorenz A.R. , Lüttkopf D. , Seitz R. , Vieths S.
Published: July 2008

For each medicinal product quality, safety and efficacy have to be proven to obtain a marketing authorisation. The national competent health authorities and the European Medicines Agency (EMEA) with support of the Heads of Medicines Agencies (HMA) work together to grant marketing authorisations for medicinal products. Several regulatory procedures to apply for a marketing authorisation in the European Community (EC) and associated countries exist. After approval by a national procedure a medicinal product can be marketed in only one country. If a medicinal product should enter the markets of two or more European countries of choice the application has to undergo the Mutual Recognition Procedure (MRP) or the Decentralised Procedure (DCP). A marketing authorisation granted by the Centralised Procedure (CP) is valid in the whole EC. The CP is mandatory for certain medicinal products, for example all products derived from recombinant DNA technology including recombinant allergens. The guidance documents applicable to allergen products comprise general as well as product-specific guidelines such as the Note for Guidance on Allergen Products and the Monograph on Allergen Products of the European Pharmacopoeia. So-called ‘named patient products’ have a special status and are applied to patients without having a marketing authorisation. Recombinant allergens as medicinal products are insufficiently covered by the existing allergen product-specific guidelines, but product-specific guidelines are in the development stage.
Malignant Conjunctival Tumors Invading the Orbit
Authors: Gökmen Soysal Hülya , Ardiç Fisun
Published: July 2008

Aim: The aim of this study is to present the clinical and histopathological features as well as the treatment results of advanced conjunctival malignant tumors with orbital invasion, in the context of all secondary orbital tumors. Methods: A total of 151 secondary orbital tumors were observed over a 10-year period; 21 (14%) out of 151 cases were detected to be of conjunctival origin, and the cases were reviewed retrospectively. The age, gender, duration of symptoms, clinical and histopathological features and the treatment results of patients were recorded. Results: Four out of 21 patients had malignant melanoma (MM), while 17 had squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of the conjunctiva. The mean duration of symptoms was 11.3 months in the MM and 18.5 months in the SCC group. Perineural invasion was detected in 1 of the MM and 3 of the SCC cases. The peritumorous inflammation score was higher in the SCC than the MM group (2.2 vs. 1.5). Two patients underwent wide excision with control of the surgical margins and postoperative adjunctive topical chemotherapy. Nineteen patients needed exenteration. Two patients with regional metastasis were treated by radical neck dissection and radiation therapy to the neck. After a mean follow-up time of 35.6 months, no tumor recurrence or tumor-related death was encountered. Seven patients died from non-tumor-related causes. Conclusion: Delay in presentationfor treatment and previous unsuccessful surgery of conjunctival malignant lesions are likely to lead to orbital invasion and loss of the eye. Exenteration is generally needed but margin-controlled wide surgical excision and adjuvant chemotherapy may be curative in selected cases. Early diagnosis and effective treatment of lesions will minimize the mortality rate and morbidity related to the disease.
Visual Prognosis and Risk Factors for Korean Patients with Behcet Uveitis
Authors: Cho Young Jae , Kim Wook Kyum , Lee Jong Hyun , Byeon Suk Ho , Koh Hyoung Jun , Kwon Oh Woong , Lee Sung Chul
Published: July 2008

Purpose: Visual prognosis was evaluated in Korean Behcet uveitis patients. The study investigated factors associated with poor visual outcome, and the effect of various treatments on recurrence-free duration. Methods: A retrospective analysis was undertaken on 99 consecutive Behcet uveitis patients (168 eyes). Visual prognosis was evaluated using Kaplan-Meier survival curves, and Cox’s proportional hazard regression analysis was used to identify risk factors. Results: Visual acuity at the first visit (<0.5), presence of vasculitis, male gender, and posterior/panuveitis type were associated with poor visual prognosis. Visual acuity at the first visit was found to be the most significant risk factor (hazard ratio = 7.392, p = 0.007). Analysis of 9 different treatment modalities showed patients treated with steroids had longer recurrence-free periods than those not treated with steroids (p = 0.0053, t test). Conclusion: Whilethe long-term visual prognosis for Behcet uveitis may be affected by many factors, the initial visual acuity appears to be the most significant. Treatments involving steroids appear to decrease the frequency of uveitis recurrence.
Adult Precursor T-Lymphoblastic Leukemia/Lymphoma with Myeloid-Associated Antigen Expression Is Associated with a Lower Complete Remission Rate following Induction Chemotherapy
Authors: AL Khabori Murtadha , Samiee Samira , Fung Sharon , Xu Wei , Brandwein Joseph , Patterson Bruce , Brien William , Chang Hong
Published: July 2008

Prognostic studies of T-cell lymphoblastic leukemia/lymphoma (T-ALL) have been performed in small patient cohorts with conflicting results. We systematically reviewed 67 adult T-ALL patients diagnosed and treated at our institute to identify clinical and pathologic prognostic factors. The median initial WBC was 21.3 × 109/l. Blasts expressed at least one myeloid-associated antigen in 33%. Karyotypes were abnormal in 32% of the cases. Fifty-six of 64 patients (88%) achieved complete remission (CR). In univariate analysis, age, gender, initial WBC, CD10, CD34 and abnormal karyotype did not predict CR. Patients expressing at least one myeloid-associated antigen had a CR of 74% compared to 94% (p = 0.04) for those not expressing myeloid antigens. None of the above factors affected relapse-free or overall survival in this cohort. Our study indicates that expression of myeloid-associated antigens is associated with a lower CR rate in adult T-ALL and may be considered in risk stratification for induction chemotherapy.
Hospital Admissions for Stroke among the Very Old in the USA
Authors: Tabereaux Paul B. , Brass Lawrence M. , Concato John , Bravata Dawn M.
Published: July 2008

Background: We sought to describe the proportion of acute ischemic stroke admissions for very old patients (≧85 years), compare the characteristics of very old versus younger patients and identify factors among very old patients associated with adverse outcomes. Methods: The 2000 Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project data included acute ischemic stroke hospitalizations for patients ≧45 years. The combined outcome was in-hospital mortality or discharge to a long-term care facility. Results: Among 15,020 stroke hospitalizations, 20.4% were for very old patients. The outcome rate was higher in hospitalizations for very old patients (2,176/3,058, 71.2%; versus 5,748/11,962, 48%; p < 0.0001). More hospitalizations for very old patients were for women (73.5 versus 55.1%; p < 0.0001), fewer for Blacks (6.1 versus 12.3%; p < 0.0001) and fewer at teaching hospitals (30.4 versus 36.2%; p < 0.0001). Among very old patients, factors that were independently associated with the outcome included: age [years; adjusted OR = 1.02 (95% CI = 1.000–1.05)], female gender [1.4 (1.18–1.68)], atrial fibrillation [1.37 (1.15–1.63)], acute myocardial infarction [1.68 (1.20–2.35)], respiratory failure [3.59 (1.60–8.05)] and teaching hospital admission [0.82 (0.69–0.98)]. Similar results were observed in the hospitalizations for younger patients. The adjusted OR for the outcome displayed geographic disparities in both age groups, but the pattern of the geographic variation was not similar between the two age groups. Conclusions: The very old constitute a substantial proportion of stroke hospitalizations. Hospitalizations for very old patients are more likely to end in death or discharge to a long-term care facility than hospitalizations for younger patients. The pattern of geographic disparity in poststroke adverse outcomes differs between younger and very old patients.
Dietary Supplements Contribute Substantially to the Total Nutrient Intake in Pregnant Norwegian Women
Authors: Haugen Margaretha , Brantsæter Anne Lise , Alexander Jan , Meltzer Helle Margrete
Published: July 2008

Background: Use of dietary supplements during pregnancy may give an important contribution to nutrient intake, and for nutrients like folate and vitamin D supplements are recommended. Our objective was to study use and contribution of dietary supplement to nutrient intake among women participating in the Norwegian Mother and Child Cohort Study (MoBa). Methods: This study is based on 40,108 women participating in MoBa which is conducted by the Norwegian Institute of Public Health. The women had filled inversion 2 of the food frequency questionnaire in MoBa between February 2002 and February 2005. Results: 81% reported use of one or more dietary supplements. The most commonly used category was cod liver oil/fish oil supplements (59%) followed by singular folic acid supplements (36%) and multivitamin/multimineral supplements (31%). The nutrient contribution of the dietary supplements varied from 65% for folate and vitamin D to 1% for potassium among supplement users. The dietary intake of vitamin D, folate, iodine and iron did not reach the Nordic Recommendations for pregnant women. Conclusions: Use of supplements improved the intake of folate, iron and vitamin D, but not sufficiently to reach the recommended amounts.
Bolus Ingestion But Not Regular Consumption of Native or Dealcoholized Red Wine Modulates Selected Immunological Functions of Leukocytes in Healthy Volunteers
Authors: Ellinger Sabine , Arendt Bianca M. , Fimmers Rolf , Stehle Peter , Spengler Ulrich , Goerlich Roland
Published: July 2008

Background/Aims: Red wine (RW) consumption reduces the risk for coronary heart disease (CHD). Since immunological mechanisms involved in CHD were modulated by RW polyphenols in vitro, we investigated whether consumption of native or dealcoholized RW (DRW) affects selected immunological parameters in healthy adults ex vivo. Methods: Twenty-seven nonsmokers were randomized to consume a single dose of 200 ml RW, 175 ml DRW or 200 ml water (controls). The same doses of RW (n = 24) and DRW (n = 25) were ingested daily for 6 weeks in addition to the subjects’ usual diet. Controls (n = 25) did not receive any study drink. Blood was drawn before/90/360 min after supplementation or before and after 6-week intervention, respectively, to determine T cell apoptosis, phagocytosis and burst of neutrophils and monocytes. Results: T cell apoptosis decreased after 360 min in group DRW [median (interquartile range); t₀: 71 (68; 75)% vs. t360: 65 (64; 67)%; p = 0.008], but also in controls [t₀: 71 (65; 76)% vs. t360: 64 (60; 65)%; p = 0.038] and both changes were different from group RW (DRW, p = 0.006; control, p = 0.024). Burst-positive monocytes increased after bolus ingestion of DRW [t₀: 27 (14; 69)% vs. t360: 47 (29; 74)%; p = 0.012], and this change was different from controls (p = 0.008). Immunological changes related to daily consumption of RW or DRW did not occur. Conclusions: Other mechanisms than a modulation of phagocytosis, burst or T cell apoptosis by RW polyphenols, ingested either with or without alcohol, might explain the protective effects of RW against CHD observed in epidemiological studies.
Phylogeny of Duck Enteritis Virus: Evolutionary Relationship in the Family Herpesviridae
Authors: Liu Shengwang , Li Huixin , Li Yang , Han Zongxi , Shao Yuhao , An Rui , Kong Xiangang
Published: July 2008

Objective: To understand the evolutionary relationship of duck enteritis virus (DEV) in the family Herpesviridae and the genome organization of DEV. Methods: A modified ‘targeted gene walking PCR’ method was used to amplify the unknown gene of DEV Clone-03 strain adjacent to a short stretch of known sequence. The assembled unknown fragment was confirmed to be a homologue of herpesviruses by BLAST analysis and comparison with other herpesviruses homologues. Open reading frames (ORFs) were determined and analyzed by Gene Runner software and an online transcriptional element search engine. Two evolutionary analysis approaches were used to conduct phylogenetic trees of DEV in relation to herpesviruses based on the deduced amino acid sequences. Results: A genomic fragment encompassing 25,625 nt and containing 16 ORFs was amplified, determined, and compared with homologues in other herpesviruses. Phylogenetic trees indicated that DEV and other herpesviruses generated from one ancestor and DEV were grouped into the subfamily Alphaherpesvirinae. In most cases, DEV showed a close relationship with the genus Mardivirus, but formed a single branch. Conclusion: Partial genomic organization and phylogenetic analysis in the present study provides evidence that DEV was a member of the subfamily Alphaherpesvirinae and should be assigned as a single group.
Signalization of Akt/PKB in the Placenta, Skeletal Muscle and Adipose Tissue of Preeclampsia Patients
Authors: Orcy Rafael Bueno , Schroeder Sabrina , Hofmeister Martins-Costa Sérgio , Lopes Ramos José Geraldo , Schechinger Wolfgang , Klein Harald , Simoni Brum Ilma , von Eye Corleta Helena , Capp Edison
Published: July 2008

Preeclampsia (PE) is a significant cause of fetal and maternal mortality around the world and there is evidence that insulin resistance has been implicated in the pathophysiology of PE. The Akt/PKB pathway is stimulated by insulin and performs several vital functions relative to growth, survival and cellular metabolism. Objective: To investigate the basal expression of Akt/PKB, HSP90 expression, proteins that regulate Akt/PKB activity and substrate in the placenta, skeletal muscle and adipocytes of normal and PE parturient. Method: Samples were collected from 17 normal patients and 17 PE patients, and analyzed by Western blot to quantify the protein expression involved in signaling cascade of Akt/PKB. Results: Total Akt/PKB expression for normal placentas was 1.85 (1.07–3.12) and 1.53 (1.27–3.08) in PE (p = 1.00); in the adipose tissue of normal placentas it was 1.10 (0.53–1.73) and 1.66 (0.83–2.00) in PE (p = 0.37). Conclusions: There was no difference in the Akt/PKB pathway, in basal state, in placentas and skeletal muscle of normal and PE patients. However, defects in this signaling pathway as pathophysiology of PE cannot be excluded because it is necessary to analyze this pathway during stimulation.
Massive Pulmonary Emboli and CT Pulmonary Angiography
Authors: Findik Serhat , Erkan Levent , Light Richard W. , Uzun Oguz , Atici Atilla G. , Akan Huseyin
Published: July 2008

Background: Massive pulmonary embolism (PE) is a devastating form of PE which usually results in acute right ventricular failure and death within 1–2 h. Objectives: To retrospectively assess pulmonary vascular, cardiac, pleural, and parenchymal findings on CT pulmonary angiography (CTPA) in patients with a diagnosis of massive PE (systolic blood pressure <90 mm Hg, syncope and/or shock). Methods: In 33 consecutive patients with proven massive PE, hemodynamic severity was assessed by the extent of right ventricular dysfunction (RVD); diameter of the main pulmonary artery; the shape of the interventricular septum; and the extent of obstruction to the pulmonary arterial circulation (CT obstruction index). Results: Central pulmonary arteries were embolized in all patients. RVD was detected in all patients (94% of them had severe RVD); the diameter of the main pulmonary artery was wider than normal in 76% of the patients; the shape of the interventricular septum was abnormal in all patients, and the CT obstruction index was higher than or equal to 50% in 85% of the patients. Wedge-shaped pleural-based consolidation was the most common parenchymal abnormality (36%). Pleural effusions were seen in 26 patients (79%). Twenty-eight patients were alive, and only the use of thrombolytic therapy was found to be statistically significant. Conclusions: In patients with acute massive PE, embolization of the central pulmonary arteries, RVD and displacement of the interventricular septum are commonly seen with CTPA. A CT obstruction index of >50% is commonly observed in massive PE. There was no association between CTPA findings and survival.
Extraocular Motoneuron Stimulation Frequency Effects on Motor Unit Tension in Cat
Authors: Shall M.S. , Wilson K.E. , Goldberg S.J.
Published: July 2008

The contractile characteristics of 47 twitch and 3 nontwitch lateral rectus motor units in 11 cats were examined using two different stimulation paradigms derived from observed motoneuron firing frequencies in alert animals. The twitch units showed an average twitch tension (46.0 ± 8.1 mg), contraction time (6.15 ± 0.26 ms) and median fusion frequency (170 Hz) consistent with previous studies, kt value, defined as the slope of the relation between a series of constant frequency tetanic stimulation trains (lasting 200 ms) and tetanic tension, correlated with maximum tetanic tension (r = 0.984, p < 0.05). ktps value, defined as the slope of the relation between tetanic tension and a series of constant frequency stimulation trains (lasting 1975 ms) that immediately followed a 25-ms high-frequency burst (pulse/step paradigm), was similarly correlated (r = 0.853, p < 0.05) with maximum tetanic tension (× = 256.5 ± 35.2 mg). ktps values were lower that kt values for each unit, but the units did not change their position in the numerical hierarchy. Eighty-four percent of the motor units produced different maximum tetanic tensions (× = 24 ± 3%), when comparing pulse/step to constant frequency stimulation, but only 14% of those units produced a greater maximum tetanic tension during pulse/step stimulation. In contrast, 46% of the motor units contracted with more force during the step phase of the pulse/step paradigm than with constant frequency stimulation when the stimulation rate was below 120 Hz: 24% of the units contracted with less force. In addition, pulse/step stimulation frequency ranges above 120 Hz (step phase) were ineffective in increasing tension while higher frequencies continued to elicit tension increases during constant frequency stimulation. The impact of these tension variations on eye movement is discussed.
Variability in the Human Entorhinal Region May Confound Neuropsychiatric Diagnoses
Authors: Heinsen H. , Gössmann E. , Rüb U. , Eisenmenger W. , Bauer M. , Ulmar G. , Bethke B. , Schüler M. , Schmitt H.-P. , Götz M. , Lockemann U. , Püschel K.
Published: July 2008

The human entorhinal region consists of a number of areas; however, there is no generally accepted nomenclature for these cytoarchitectonic fields, and the designation of its constituent layers or strata is a matter of controversy. Here, we consider a hitherto neglected adjacent field, the preamygdaloid claustrocortex. Its medial subfield has a small common border with the rostromedial entorhinal region (width maximal 2 mm). Both fields are cytoarchitectonically rather similar. The rostromedial oral entorhinal field lacks ascending terminal islands. Its unusually small pre-alpha cells are arranged in a thin band or small clusters consisting of pyramidal, triangular, or polymorphic cells. The conspicuous chromophilic pre-beta cell clusters are composed of a variety of cell types, including groups of ‘immature’ spindle-shaped or bipolar nerve cells. Furthermore, a rare sulcus within the entorhinal region (central sulcus of the entorhinal region: observed in 4% of the 450 brains examined) is associated with an unusual lamination of the entorhinal layers in its wall and floor. Both the specific shape and arrangement of neurones in the claustrocortical-rostral entorhinal border region and the unusual lamination within the rare central entorhinal sulcus are regarded as reflecting neurodevelopmental disturbances characteristic of schizophrenic brains. In contrast, our observations in a large sample of serially sectioned brains from controls, schizophrenics, and patients suffering from neuropsychiatric diseases other than schizophrenia do not support this assumption.
Ultrastructure of the Rat Periodontal Ligament as Observed with Quick-Freeze, Deep-Etch and Replica Methods: Arrangement of Collagen and Related Structures
Authors: Kuroiwa M. , Tachikawa T. , Izumiyama N. , Takubo K. , Yoshiki S. , Higashi S.
Published: July 2008

The ultrastructure of the periodontal ligament of rat molars was examined with the quick-freeze, deep-etch replica methods. It was mainly composed of elongated fibroblast-like cells and 40- to 50-nm-wide collagen fibrils that are arranged parallel to one another to form fibers approximately 1 µm in width. Collagen fibrils are composed of 10-nm-wide substructures that may run helically against the long axis of the fibril. Numerous rod-like structures (‘rods’) approximately 10 nm in width are present around the collagen fibrils. Individual or groups of rods span spaces between neighboring collagen fibrils to interconnect them. The surfaces of the fibroblast-like cells are also connected to the nearest collagen fibrils through the rods. In place, strands with a thickness similar to that of the rods were seen self-assembled into irregular meshwork structures. The treatment of the tissue with 10% sodium hydroxide for up to 5 days removed most of these rods and strands, thus exposing a three-dimensional arrangement of collagen fibrils that is often not fully visualized in untreated tissues. With histochemical staining of thinly sectioned tissues using Alcian blue, these rods and strands were positively stained, and thus they were demonstrated to be composed of proteoglycans. The ultrastructural arrangement of the periodontal ligament, observed in this study as a delicate interaction of collagen and proteoglycan components, is likely to play a significant role in the transmission of occlusal forces applied to the tissue and in the dissipation of mechanical shock.
Influence of Spaceflight on Succinate Dehydrogenase Activity and Soma Size of Rat Ventral Horn Neurons
Authors: Ishihara A. , Ohira Y. , Roy R.R. , Nagaoka S. , Sekiguchi C. , Hinds W.E. , Edgerton V.R.
Published: July 2008

Succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) activities and soma cross-sectional areas (CSA) of neurons in the dorsolateral region of the ventral horn at the L5 segmental level of the spinal cord in the rat were determined after 14 days of spaceflight and after 9 days of recovery on earth. The results were compared to those in age-matched ground-based control rats. Spinal cords were quick-frozen, and the SDH activity and CSA of a sample of neurons with a visible nucleus were determined using a digitizer and a computer-assisted image analysis system. An inverse relationship between CSA and SDH activity of neurons was observed in all groups of rats. No change in mean CSA or mean SDH activity or in the size distribution of neurons was observed following spaceflight or recovery. However, there was a selective decrease in the SDH activity of neurons with soma CSA between 500 and 800 µm2 in the flight rats, and this effect persisted for at least 9 days following return to 1 g. It remains to be determined whether the selected population of motoneurons or the specific motor pools affected by spaceflight may be restricted to specific muscles.
Scanning Electron Microscopy of the Human Zonule of the Lens (Zonula ciliaris)
Authors: Canals M. , Costa-Vila J. , Potau J.M. , Merindano M.D. , Ruano D.
Published: July 2008

In the present study eight human eyeballs were specifically prepared for scanning-electron-microscopic observation of the zonule. The zonule consisted of two main layers of radial fibres, an anterior and a posterior one, that inserted on the anterior and the posterior lens capsules, respectively. Some fibres inserted on the equator of the lens. Posterior zonular fibres originated at the pars plana, entered the dorsal part of the ciliary valleys and then changed their direction towards the posterior face of the lens. Posterior fibres inserted on the posterior capsule of the lens by branched endings 1 mm behind the equator of the lens. Anterior zonular fibres originated mainly at the pars plana and occasionally at the ciliary valleys. After running completely through the ciliary valleys in close contact with the lateral walls of the ciliary processes, they changed their direction at the anterior endings of the pars plicata and reached the anterior lens capsule. Anterior zonular insertions were achieved by webbed endings that diffused into the anterior capsule 2 mm in front of the lens equator. The extraordinary distension capacity of the zonular fibres was demonstrated by pulling the anterior lens capsule after hydrodissection. As a consequence, the anterior fibres were stretched up to four times their original length without breaking or disinserting.
Hair Distribution on the Phalanges of the Hand among Kanuris and Baburs/Buras of North-Eastern Nigeria
Authors: Mbajiorgu F.E. , Asala S.A. , Ejiwunmi A.B. , Abdullahi Z.
Published: July 2008

One thousand four hundred and seven Kanuri and Babur/Bura subjects of northeastern Nigeria were selected randomly in order to determine the frequency and distribution patterns of midphalangeal hair of their hands. Of these, 25.2% possessed hair on the middle phalanges (approximately 26% of males and 24% of females). Therefore, the sex difference was not statistically significant (p > 0.2704). There was, however, a significant effect of age (p < 0.05), by which the incidence increased to a peak in the 10- to 15-year age group and, thereafter, decreased gradually to a maximum age of 35 years. The frequency order of occurrence of midphalangeal hair was 4 > 3 > 5 > 2. Eight patterns of hair distribution were found, but no subject had exclusive presence of hair on the middle phalanx of the index finger. The 3, 4, 5 finger combination was the most frequent. Hair on the proximal phalanx was absent in 8% of males and 7.6% of females. There was an ulnar rather than a radial shift in the distribution of midphalangeal hair, a phenomenon which might have been due to a shift in the morphogenetic gradient during development.
Plastinated Canine Gastrointestinal Tracts Used to Facilitate Teaching of Endoscopic Technique and Anatomy
Authors: Janick L. , DeNovo R.C. , Henry R.W.
Published: July 2008

Plastinated specimens, when prepared with a design for endoscopic use, can serve as a practical model for teaching. Intact alimentary canals were excised from fresh canine cadavers. Cannulas in excess of the intended endoscope size (9.6 mm diameter) were placed in restrictive openings [cardiac ostium (ostium cardiacum), pyloric ostium (ostium pyloricum), and cecocolic orifice (ostium cecocolicum)]. These cannulas allowed ingesta to be removed and maintained adequeate diameters for endoscoping. After flushing out the gastrointestinal contents, specimens were formaldehyde-fixed overnight in a dilated anatomical conformation. Prior to S10/S3 impregnation, fixative was flushed from the specimens and they were dehydrated in acetone. After impregnation, slow cure (elongation of S3 molecules at room temperature) was allowed to proceed for approximately 1 week. The gastrointestinal tracts were maintained in a dilated conformation by a positive pressure air flow. When polymer seepage was minimal, they were cured using small quantities of S6 (final curing agent). The curing agent was contained around the specimen by enclosing the specimens in plastic bags. The plastinated specimens retain their dilated anatomical conformation, and may be used to teach both endoscopic technique and gastrointestinal anatomy.
Sheet Plastination of the Larynx for Whole-Organ Histology
Authors: Síttel C. , Eckel H.E. , Ricke S. , Stennert E.
Published: July 2008

Whole organ serial sections of the larynx are recognized to improve the assessment of laryngeal pathology. The human larynx with its complex anatomy of different types of tissue with their marked differences in hardness complicate the cutting process. The methods established are either very costly, time consuming and prone to artefacts, or sections are too thick for a histological work-up. Prior decalcification causes major shrinkage, thus morphometry is not feasible. We describe a technique of sheet plastination to produce whole-organ sections which allows a full-scale histological investigation without prior decalcification. Deep-frozen larynges are cut into 4-μm-thick sections using an ordinary slicing machine. Slices are dehydrated in acetone and plastinated in BiodurTM E50/E7/ AE10/E700. These specimens are cut into sections of about 80 μm thickness using a diamond-wire saw. An ultra-milling device reduces the section thickness down to about 10 μm. Surface staining of different kinds like Richardson, meth-ylene blue or Paragon yields sufficient contrast for exact diagnosis. Deplastina-tion and consecutive paraffin-like staining is possible, but results are not yet fully satisfying. Histological sheet plastination produces almost artefact- and shrinkage-free whole-organ sections in a period of about 1 week. The technique is useful for studies of micromorphometry or tumor spread. Theoretically, application of immunohistochemical staining methods seems to be possible. This might lead to mapping the proliferation activity of laryngeal cancer as it is presented on whole-organ sections.