bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inhibitory Effects of Plant Tannins on Ultraviolet Light‐Induced Epidermal DNA Synthesis in Hairless Mice
Authors: Gali‐Muhtasib Hala U. , Perchellet Jean‐Pierre , Khatib Samar H.
Published: January 2008

Naturally occurring hydrolyzable (HT) and condensed (CT) tannins and their monomeric units were tested for their ability to inhibit the stimulation of DNA synthesis by UVB radiation. Hairless mice were irradiated with either single (200 mJ/cm2) or multiple (150 mJ/cm2) doses of UVB applied at 24 h intervals and epidermal DNA synthesis was measured at different times after the last of these treatments. The peak of DNA synthesis that is observed 48–56 h after a single UVB irradiation shifts to an earlier time of 16–24 h after multiple UVB treatments. Interestingly, the early inhibitory period of DNA synthesis observed 8 h after a single UVB treatment is not detected following multiple UVB treatments. Rather, DNA synthesis is stimulated six‐fold 24 h after multiple UVB treatment, a response that is higher than the peak occurring 48–56 h after a single UVB irradiation. The disappearance of the early period of inhibition when the peak of DNA synthesis shifts to an earlier time may be linked to reactive oxygen species brought to the epidermis by infiltrating leukocytes, which, in turn, act as second messengers to stimulate growth signals in cells. Topical applications of HT or CT remarkably inhibit the DNA responses to single and multiple UVB treatments, an effect that is dependent on the dose and time of administration. Indeed, the peak stimulation of DNA synthesis is maximally inhibited when 17 mg of Tarapod tannic acid (TA), an HT, are applied topically 20 min before a single UVB treatment. The polymeric tannins inhibited DNA synthesis to a greater degree than equal doses of their monomeric units, gallic acid and catechin. These results suggest that various oligomeric HT and CT may be useful against tumor‐promoting responses associated with the exposure of skin to physical carcinogens.
Determination of Equilibrium Constants for Weakly Bound Charge‐transfer Complexes
Authors: Zaini Ramona , Orcutt Andrew C. , Arnold Bradley R.
Published: January 2008

Abstract— The evaluation of the equilibrium constants for charge‐transfer complex formation has been of interest for five decades. During this time, absorption spectroscopy using Benesi‐Hildebrand, or related methods, has been used to obtain the equilibrium constants. These methods require relatively high concentrations of donor or acceptor to be present in solution when weakly bound complexes are studied, conditions that lead to the formation of higher order complexes and inconsistent determinations of these constants. A new method is presented that allows weakly bound charge‐transfer complexes to be studied under low concentration conditions and the equilibrium constants to be determined accurately for the first time. Using this method, the equilibrium constant for the formation of 1, 2, 4, 5‐tetracyanobenzene/pentamethylbenzene charge‐transfer complex was found to be KCT= 6.8 ± 0.3 M−1 with an extinction coefficient at 400 nm of εCT= 150 ± 30cm−1M−1.
Ultraviolet Radiation Effects on a Microscopic Green Alga and the Protective Effects of Natural Dissolved Organic Matter
Authors: West L. Jeanine A. , Greenberg Bruce M. , Smith Ralph E. H.
Published: January 2008

Abstract— The population and photosynthetic responses of a microscopic green alga (Selenastrum capricornutum) to realistic levels of UV radiation (UVA and UVB) were assessed in natural lake waters of different dissolved organic carbon (DOC) concentration. Specific growth rates and photosynthetic competence (as reflected by Fv/Fm [measure of maximal quantum efficiency of photosystem II] and t1/2 [estimate of electrons transported to the plastoquinone pool] measured by in vivo variable chlorophyll a fluorescence) were compared between two exposure levels of UVR and two concentrations of DOC (2.5 mg C L−1 7.7 mg C L−1). Exposure periods of 6–9 days (five to nine generations) were used. Exposure to UVA primarily affected the efficiency of photosystem II, as evidenced by significant decreases of Fv/Fm but not growth rates or t1/2 Exposure to UVB, in the presence of UVA, did not cause significant additional decreases of Fv/Fm but did diminish growth rates. In the low DOC water, t1/2 was also diminished, suggesting different proximate sites of action from those for UVA. The high DOC water decreased the effective exposure to both UVA and UVB and diminished the negative impact of UV radiation on the cells, but the apparent protection was not explicable solely by the shading action of the DOC. Control values for Fv/Fm, growth rates and t1/2 were all lower in the high DOC water, suggesting a negative side effect to the apparent protective action of the DOC against UVB.
Influence of Phage Proteins on Formation of Specific UV DMA Photoproducts in Phage T7
Authors: Fekete A. , Vink A. A. , Gaspar S. , Modos K. , Berces A. , Ronto Gy. , Roza L.
Published: January 2008

Abstract— Phage T7 can be used as a biological UV dosimeter. Its reading is proportional to the inactivation rate expressed in HT7 units. To understand the influence of phage proteins on the formation of DNA UV photoproducts, cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers (CPD) and (6–4)photoproducts ((6–4)PD) were determined in T7 DNA exposed to UV radiation under different conditions: intraphage T7 DNA, isolated T7 DNA and heated phage. To investigate the effects of various wavelengths, seven different UV sources have been used. The CPD and (6–4)PD were determined by lesion‐specific antibodies in an immunodotblot assay. Both photoproducts were HT7 dose‐dependently produced in all three objects by every irradiation source in the biologically relevant UV dose range (1–10 HT7). The CPD to (6–4)PD ratios increased with the increasing effective wavelength of the irradiation source and were similar in intraphage T7 DNA, isolated DNA and heated phage with all irradiation sources. However, a significant decrease in the yield of both photoproducts was detected in isolated T7 DNA and in heated phage compared to intraphage DNA, the decrease was dependent on the irradiation source. Both photoproducts were affected the same way in isolated T7 DNA and heated phage, respectively. The yield of CPD and (6–4)PD was similar in B, C‐like and A conformational states of isolated T7 DNA, indicating that the conformational switch in the DNA is not the decisive factor in photoproduct formation. The most likely explanation for modulation of photoproduct frequency in intraphage T7 DNA is that the presence of bound phage proteins induces an alteration in DNA structure that can result in an increased rate of dimerization and (6–4)PD production of adjacent bases in intraphage T7 DNA.
Deletion of Alloantigen‐Activated Cells by Aminolevulinic Acid‐Based Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Hryhorenko Eric A. , Oseroff Allan R. , Morgan Janet , Rittenhouse‐Diakun Kate
Published: January 2008

Abstract— Protoporphyrin IX (PpIX), an endogenously synthesized photosensitizer, can transiently accumulate in activated lymphocytes following administration of the heme precursor 5‐aminolevulinic acid (ALA). One possible mechanism of this in lymphocyte accumulation is that actively dividing cells use intracellular iron stores for cytochrome and DNA synthesis and thus do not inactivate PpIX, the photoactive precursor of heme, by iron incorporation. This selective accumulation in activated cells should allow targeting by photodynamic therapy (PDT). To determine the effect of this accumulation, we studied PDT effects on the in vitro correlate of transplantation rejection: the one‐way mixed lymphocyte reaction (MLR). Selective phototoxicity was determined by photoirradiating ALA‐treated, MLR‐activated cells and measuring subsequent stimulation either in a secondary MLR or with phytohemagglutinin (PHA). We found that proliferation of MLR‐activated lymphocytes incubated with ALA and treated with light was only 12–20% of controls (ALA+, no light) after rechallenge with the stimulator cells (P < 0.05), although their response to nonspecific PHA stimulation was similar to controls. Thus alloantigen‐specific depletion was shown. The data suggest a role for ALAPDT in the treatment of diseases that require the selective elimination of activated lymphocytes and possibly as an immunomodulator.
Antisense Bcl‐2 Retrovirus Vector Increases the Sensitivity of a Human Gastric Adenocarcinoma Cell Line to Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Zhang Wen‐Geng , Ma Li‐Ping , Wang Shen‐Wu , Zhang Zhi‐Yi , Cao Guo‐Dong
Published: January 2008

Abstract— The bcl‐2 oncoprotein directly prolongs cellular survival by blocking apoptosis and its overexpression is associated with cellular resistance to killing by chemotherapeutic drugs and γ‐irradiation. Meanwhile, it has been shown that bcl‐2 antisense oligonucleotide can induce apoptosis or increase toxicity of the treatment in tumors in vivo and in vitro. However, it is difficult to obtain stable transfection by this approach and there are no reports about the effect of an antisense bcl‐2 on the sensitivity to oxidative stress induced by photodynamic therapy (PDT). Here we investigated the effect of an antisense bcl‐2 RNA retrovirus vector transfer on the sensitivity of 2‐butylamino‐2‐demethoxy‐hypocrellin A (2‐BA‐2‐DMHA) photosensitization in a human gastric adenocarcinoma MGC803 cell line. The results indicate that antisense bcl‐2‐infected MGC803 cells expressed exogenous antisense bcl‐2 mRNA measured by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and significantly reduced bcl‐2 protein determined by western blotting analysis. The decreased expression of bcl‐2 protein was accompanied by increased phototoxicity and susceptibility to apoptosis induced by 2‐BA‐2‐DMHA PDT. Our finding suggests that reduction of bcl‐2 protein in gastric cancers, and possibly also in a variety of other tumors, may be a novel and rational approach to improve photosensitivity and the treatment outcome.
Irradiation of Amelanotic Melanoma Cells with 532 nm High Peak Power Pulsed Laser Radiation in the Presence of the Photothermal Sensitizer Cu(II)‐Hematoporphyrin: A New Approach to Cell Photoinactivation
Authors: Soncin Marina , Busetti Alessandra , Fusi Franco , Jori Giulio , Rodgers Michael A. J.
Published: January 2008

Abstract— Cu(II)‐hematoporphyrin (CuHp) was efficiently accumulated by B78H1 amelanotic melanoma cells upon incubation with porphyrin concentrations up to 52 μM When the cells incubated for 18 h with 13 μM CuHp were irradiated with 532 nm light from a Q‐switched Nd: YAG laser operated in a pulsed mode (10 ns pulses, 10 Hz) a significant decrease in cell survival was observed. The cell photoinactivation was not the consequence of a photodynamic process, as CuHp gave no detectable triplet signal upon laser flash photolysis excitation and no decrease in cell survival was observed upon continuous wave irradiation. Thus, it is likely that CuHp sensitization takes place by photothermal pathways. The efficiency of the photoprocess was modulated by different parameters; thus, while varying the amount of added CuHp in the 3.25–26 μM range had little effect, pulse energies larger than 50 mJ and irradiation times of at least 120 s were necessary to induce a cell inactivation of about 50%. The porphyrin‐cell incubation time prior to irradiation had a major influence on cell survival, suggesting that the nature of the CuHp microenvironment can control the efficiency of photothermal sensitization.
UVB and γ‐Radiation Induce the Expression of mRNAs Encoding the Ribosomal Subunit L13A in Rat Keratinocytes
Authors: Shahmolky Nazanin , Lefebvre Diana L. , Poon Raymond , Bai Yahong , Sharma Monika , Rosen Cheryl F.
Published: January 2008

Abstract Ultraviolet B radiation produces an array of cellular perturbations in the skin. We isolated a keratinocyte cDNA encoding the rat 60S ribosomal subunit protein L13a following differential cDNA library screening with UVB‐en‐riched probes. In contrast to the reported structure of liver L13a, the keratinocyte L13a cDNA contains a longer 3′‐untranslated region. Northern blot analysis detected two L13a mRNA transcripts, ?800 bp and ?1.2 kb, in keratinocytes and a variety of rat tissues. Both L13a mRNA transcripts were induced by UVB irradiation, for‐skolin and ‐γ‐irradiation. In contrast, no induction of L13a mRNA transcript levels was observed following exposure of keratinocytes to 12‐O‐tetradecanoylphorbol‐13‐acetate, serum and the DNA damage‐inducing agents methyl methanesulfonate or 4‐nitroquinoUne‐N‐oxide. These observations suggest that increased expression of ribosomal subunit genes may be a molecular component of the keratinocyte response to UVB in particular and not part of a nonspecific response to DNA damage.
Fluorescence Properties of Recombinant Tropomyosin Containing Tryptophan, 5‐Hydroxytryptophan and 7‐Azatryptophan
Authors: Das Kaustuv , Ashby Kyle D. , Smirnov Alex V. , Reinach Fernando C. , Petrich Jacob W. , Farah Chuck S.
Published: January 2008

Tropomyosin mutants containing either tryptophan (122W), 5‐hydroxytryptophan (50H122W) or 7‐azatryp‐tophan (7N122W) have been expressed in Escherichia coli and their fluorescence properties studied. The fluorescent amino acids were located at position 122 of the tropomyosin primary sequence, corresponding to a solvent‐exposed position c of the coiled‐coil heptapeptide repeat. The emission spectrum of the probe in each mutant is blue‐shifted slightly with respect to that of the probe in water. The fluorescence anisotropy decays are single exponential, with a time constant of 2–3 ns while the fluorescence lifetimes of the probes incorporated into the proteins, in water, are nonexponential. Because tryptophan in water has an intrinsic nonexponential fluorescence decay, it is not surprising that the fluorescence decay of 122W is well described by a triple exponential. The fluorescence decays in water of the nonnatural amino acids 5‐hydroxytryptophan and 7‐azatryptophan (when emission is collected from the entire band) are single exponential. Incorporation into tropomyosin induces triple‐exponential fluorescence decay in 5‐hydroxytryptophan and double‐exponential fluorescence decay in 7‐azatryptophan. The range of lifetimes observed for 5‐hy‐droxyindole and 5‐hydroxytryptophan at high pH and in the nonaqueous solvents were used as a base with which to interpret the lifetimes observed for the 50H122W and indicate that the chromophore exists in several solvent environments in both its protonated and unprotonated forms in 50H122W.
Direct Spectroscopic Evidence for 1ΔgO2 Production from the Photolysis of Vanadium(V)‐Peroxo Complexes in Aqueous Solution
Authors: Chou Pi‐Tai , Lee Ming‐Zen , Wel Chin‐Yen , Wu Guo‐Ray , Shek Lai Kuen , Kwong Daniel W. J.
Published: January 2008

The chemiluminescence of 1DLgO2 expelled from the UV photolysis of vanadium(V)‐peroxo (VP) complexes in aqueous solution was observed for the first time. Using phenalenone photosensitization as a standard reference, the 1O2 quantum yields from the photolysis of 12 VP complexes were measured. No good correlation was found between the relative DNA‐photocleavage activities and the 1O2 quantum yields of these complexes. This lack of correlation underscores the significant contribution of the complex‐DNA binding interaction in determining the observed DNA‐photocleavage activity of the complex. The small 1O2 quantum yields observed in these complexes were interpreted in terms of the minor 1O2 pho‐toelimination channel relative to other more efficient relaxation processes.
Partial Protection Against Epidermal IL‐10 Transcription and Langerhans Cell Depletion by Sunscreens after Exposure of Human Skin to UVB
Authors: Hochberg Malka , Enk Claes D.
Published: January 2008

Sunscreens capable of inhibiting erythema are assumed to protect against UV‐induced carcinogenesis as well. However, the correlation between inflammation and carcinogenesis is uncertain, and the prevention of UV‐induced erythema might in fact be biologically irrelevant as an indicator of protection against UV‐induced skin cancer. Ultraviolet‐B radiation promotes cutaneous immunosuppression by the release of immunoregulatory cytokines and by depletion of Langerhans cells. We investigated the ability of two different sunscreens to inhibit UVB‐induced expression of epidermal interleukin (IL)‐10 and depletion of Langerhans cells. Chemical and physical sunscreens were applied to the forearms of volunteers 15 min prior to 4 minimal erythemal doses of UVB exposure. Suction blisters were induced 24 h after irradiation, and RNA was extracted from the blister roofs. Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction was performed using primers for IL‐10 and CDla. A chemical sunscreen containing octyl methoxycinnamate (12 sun protection factor [SPF]) and a physical sunscreen containing zinc oxide (16 SPF) were assayed: UVB‐induced IL‐10 mRNA expression was nearly totally inhibited by both sunscreens (median protection for chemical and physical sunscreens was 95% and 78%, respectively), whereas UVB‐induced Langerhans cell depletion was partially prevented (47% and 50% for chemical and physical sunscreens, respectively). Langerhans cell protection by sunscreens was confirmed by estimation of cell density after ATPase staining. In contrast, both sunscreens effectively prevented the induction of UVB‐induced erythema. We believe this to be the first demonstration that sunscreens can prevent the induction of cutaneous mediators of immunosuppression, and that the results indicate that the immunoprotection offered by the sunscreens is significantly lower than their ability to prevent erythema.
A Laser Flash Photolysis Study on Fenofibric Acid
Authors: Boscá Francisco , Miranda Miguel A.
Published: January 2008

Fenofibric acid (FA) is a photosensitizing drug used in the treatment of hyperlipidemia. This compound follows two different photodegradation pathways: the free acid exhibits the typical benzophenone photoreactivity, while its sodium salt undergoes photodecarboxylation via a triplet biradical, that undergoes intramolecular electron transfer to form a carbanion, or cyclization to give an intramolecular light‐absorbing transient (LAT). The obtained photoproducts are explained as the result of pro‐tonation of the carbanion, ring opening of the LAT with rearrangement or oxygen trapping of any of the triplet intermediates. The above mechanism is supported by direct detection of the triplet state of FA and two long‐lived intermediates in laser flash photolysis experiments. The triplet lifetime of the carboxylate form in methanol is 0.06 μ.s; by contrast, in the case of the free acid, it is 10 times longer. The benzophenone moiety is clearly the key chromophore involved in the photobehavior of FA.
Photochemistry and Photophysics of Papaverine N‐Oxide
Authors: Souto‐Bachiller F. A. , Perez‐lnestrosa E. , Suau R. , Rico‐Gómez R. , Rodríguez‐Rodríguez L. A. , Coronado‐Pérez M. E.
Published: January 2008

The photochemistry and photophysics of papaverine N‐oxide in polar aprotic and protic solvents has been studied in detail. Complex energy and charge‐transfer phenomena between chromophores occur in papaverine. New photochemistry for the papaverine N‐oxide system is reported. Irradiation in protic media results in the formation of an emissive charge‐transfer state with ensuing intramolecular hydroxylation in high isolated yields (75–80%).
Phase Transitions and Bistability in Honeybee Foraging Dynamics
Authors: Loengarov Andreas , Tereshko Valery
Published: January 2008

Many physical and biological systems display phase transitions, where a slight change in a parameter greatly changes the behavior of the system; and bistability, where for a certain range of this parameter either of two phases can be obtained, depending on initial conditions. We suggest the presence of these phenomena in a model of foraging honeybees. The eventual number of foragers depends in a complex way on the bee concentration and on the scouting rate. The results hold relevance for other multi-agent systems with potential jumps in system behavior or efficiency, depending on agent concentration.
SEASONAL AND GENDER DIFFERENCES IN THE PREVALENCE OF INFANT ANEMIA
Authors: Yalcin S. Songül , Dut Raziye , Yurdakok Kadriye , Ozmert Elif
Published: January 2008

INTRODUCTION: Anemia is the most prevalent nutritional deficiency in the world.

OBJECTIVE: To estimate the prevalence of anemia among infants receiving routine health care in the Hacettepe University Ihsan Doğramacı Children's Hospital Well Baby Clinic in Ankara, Turkey, we conducted a cross-sectional study by using data from 469 healthy infants who had data available on their hemoglobin values at 6 months of age for the last 3 years.

METHODS: Infants with acute or chronic illness or thalassemia and infants who had taken or were taking iron supplementation at the time were not included in the study. Information regarding the children was obtained from hospital files. Infants with a hemoglobin level of <10.5 and <9.5 g/dL were considered to be mildly and moderately anemic, respectively, at 6 months of age.

RESULTS: The mean level of hemoglobin was 10.7 g/dL (SD: 0.90). The prevalence of anemia was 41.4%. Boys had significantly lower hemoglobin and hematocrit levels and mean corpuscular volume than girls. Infants born before 37 weeks' gestational age had moderate anemia more frequently. Infants born in spring or summer had anemia more frequently than those born in fall or winter (49.2% and 26.8%, respectively; P < .001). Birth weight and monthly weight gain from 6 to 9 months were positively correlated with hemoglobin value at 6 months (r = 0.14, P = .003 and r = 0.10, P = .041, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS: Anemic infants aged 6 months had an increased risk of developing growth failure from 6 to 9 months. In this study, the prevalence of anemia observed was of severe public health significance and justifies the need to emphasize, in prenatal and infant health programs, intervention measures that consider season of birth for anemia control.
EFFECTS OF MESENCHYMAL STEM CELL TRANSPLANTATION ON CARDIAC FUNCTION, STRUCTURE, AND ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY IN RABBITS WITH DILATED CARDIOMYOPATHY
Authors: Jie Tian , Shen Xing , Yu Geng-Sheng , Bai Yong-Hong , Zhu Jing , Liu Guan-Xin , Chen Yuan
Published: January 2008

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to explore the influence of implanted mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) on cardiac function, structure, and electrophysiology in rabbits with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM).

METHODS: Thirty-eight rabbits were randomly assigned to 3 groups: (1) normal rabbits (n = 12); (2) rabbits with DCM cell implantation (n = 13); or (3) DCM control rabbits (n = 13). Adriamycin was applied to create the rabbit DCM model. Rabbits for cell transplantation received an intramyocardial injection of MSCs. Four weeks later, heart function morphology and electrophysiology changes were observed. The expression of cardiac Troponin T and connexin 43 was investigated through immunohistochemistry.

RESULTS: Compared with normal rabbits, the cardiac function of DCM rabbits was impaired, but this impaired function was improved by MSC implantation. The value for monophasic action potential amplitude and the maximum velocity in ¡°0¡±phase decreased significantly in DCM rabbits, whereas the value for 50% monophasic action potential durations (MAPD) and 90% MAPD were increased significantly. The effective refractory period increased also. The comparison of both DCM groups showed that the prolongation of MAPD was shorter in the cell implantation group than in the DCM control group, and no after-depolarization was observed, whereas early after-depolarization was recorded in 2 rabbits in the DCM control group. Histology analysis showed that the structural abnormalities in the cell implantation group were less than those in the DCM control group, and the implanted MSCs could express cardiac Troponin T and connexin 43.

CONCLUSIONS: Implanted MSCs can improve heart function, reduce the structural abnormalities, and possibly inhibit the progression of electrophysiologic derangement.
SHOULD THE PELVIS BE INCLUDED IN ABDOMINAL COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY SCANS OF CHILDREN WITH UPPER-ABDOMINAL PRIMARY MALIGNANT TUMORS?
Authors: Hadgigeorgi Christiana , Zarifi Maria , Pitsoulakis George , Tavernaraki Ekaterini , Makri Triantafyllia
Published: January 2008

INTRODUCTION: There is increasing awareness of the potential risk associated with ionizing radiation in pediatric radiology. Children with abdominal cancer undergo multiple computed tomography (CT) scans both at diagnosis and for follow-up.

OBJECTIVE: We sought to estimate the potential contribution of pelvis CT findings in the management of children with upper-abdominal tumors in correlation with the effective radiation dose.

METHODS: Three hundred forty-two children (aged 1 day to 16 years) with histologically proven upper-abdominal primary malignant tumors (children with lymphoma were not included) were examined during the last 15 years in our department. Their upper- and lower-abdominal CT scans were reviewed retrospectively for clinically significant pelvic abnormalities. The effective radiation dose for each abdominal area was calculated.

RESULTS: Nine children (2.63%) showed CT pelvic abnormalities that did not change clinical management, and 7 (2.04%) showed findings that affected tumor staging. Thirty-nine percent of the total effective radiation dose was from pelvic CT scans.

CONCLUSIONS: Our data indicate that clinically significant pelvic CT findings are rare in children with upper-abdominal primary malignant tumors. We suggest that the pelvis should not be routinely included in abdominal CT scans unless indicated by other clinical or laboratory findings, given the high level of effective radiation dose.
BEHAVIORAL PROBLEMS IN CHILDREN WITH LEARNING DIFFICULTIES ACCORDING TO THEIR PARENTS AND TEACHERS
Authors: Diakakis Panagiotis , Gardelis John , Ventouri Kiriaki , Nikolaou Katerina , Koltsida Georgia , Tsitoura Styella , Constantopoulos Andreas
Published: January 2008

INTRODUCTION: Learning difficulties (LDs) are associated with increased comorbidity, especially depression and anxiety. Studies have shown that 24% to 52% of children with LDs present with behavioral problems (BPs).

OBJECTIVE: The aim of our study was to evaluate whether parents' and teachers' opinions concerning BPs in children with LDs are identical.

METHODS: For this purpose, 658 students (aged 7–10 years) in elementary schools were evaluated by specialized questionnaires for parents and teachers. Of those students, 102 (15.5%) were identified as having LDs according to their teachers. The questions regarded symptoms of depression, anxiety/stress, irritability, and other BPs.

RESULTS: Our findings in children with LDs are summarized in Table 1.

CONCLUSIONS: BPs resulting from reduced self-confidence and anxiety/stress were observed at a higher rate by the teachers than by the parents, who more often acknowledged symptoms of social isolation and aggressive behavior. Stress was the BP about which parents and teachers gave identical replies.

TABLE 1.Behavioral Problems in Children With LDsTeachers and Parents Agree That There Are No BPs, %Teachers and Parents Agree That There Are BPs, %Only the Teachers Consider That There Is a BP, %Only the Parents Consider That There Is a BP, %Reduced self-confidence24.626.342.17.0Complains of headache/bellyache19.428.437.314.9Feeling tired frequently13.624.256.16.1Other children tease him/her42.613.216.227.9Being alone, without friends37.111.335.516.1Being unreliable48.412.510.928.1Often fights with other children48.520.613.217.6Increased irritability36.820.611.830.9
LIPID PROFILE OF PREMATURE INFANTS UP TO THE AGE OF 3 YEARS
Authors: Apostolou Helen , Tsekoura Efi , Bouza Helen , Anatolitou Fani , Tzanetakou Irini , Panousopoulou Christina , Koumenidou Maria , Anagnostakou Marina
Published: January 2008

INTRODUCTION: Current literature indicates a high incidence of cardiovascular disease in later life of premature infants with low birth weight.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to investigate serum lipid levels of prematurely born infants up to the age of 3 years.

METHODS: From 2001 to 2005, 171 premature newborns were studied in the follow-up clinic. Patients were divided into 4 groups according to gestational age (≤30 and >30 weeks) and birth weight (≤1000 and >1000 g). Serum levels of cholesterol, triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein, and low-density lipoprotein were recorded at 12, 24, and 36 months of life.

RESULTS: Cholesterol levels were within the reference range in every given period, independent of age. Infants with low birth weight (≤1000 g) had significantly increased cholesterol levels compared with those with higher birth weight (>1000 g) (P = .013). All groups had significantly higher serum triglyceride levels (P = .001) during the first year of life in comparison to all other periods. In addition, infants with low birth weight had significantly higher serum triglyceride levels (P = .015) during the second year of life than infants with higher birth weight.

CONCLUSIONS: Premature infants with low birth weight have increased cholesterol and triglyceride levels during the early years of life, which is a finding that might be related to a high incidence of atherogenesis in later life and requires additional investigation.
SYSTEMATIC REVIEW OF DIAGNOSTIC CRITERIA AND CLINICAL FEATURES OF FAMILIAL HEMOPHAGOCYTIC LYMPHOHISTIOCYTOSIS
Authors: Gholam Caroline
Published: January 2008

INTRODUCTION: Familial lymphophagocytic histiocytosis (FHL) is an autosomal-recessive immunologic disorder that is fatal if untreated. The quoted incidence is 1.2 in 1 000 000; fewer than 1 of 3 patients are diagnosed while alive. The true incidence of FHL may be much higher.

OBJECTIVE: With this project we aimed to identify consensus information required for early recognition and diagnosis of patients with FHL to initiate life-saving treatment.

METHODS: An extensive Medline search that covered the last 20 years produced 17 relevant articles. The hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis 2004 protocol produced by the American Histiocyte Society provided additional information.

RESULTS: From this review, the consensus diagnostic criteria for FHL are (1) familial disease/known genetic defect, (2) clinical and laboratory criteria (5 of 8 criteria), (3) fever, (4) splenomegaly, (5) cytopenia in ≥2 cell lines, (6) hypertriglyceridemia and/or hypofibrinogenemia, (7) high ferritin level, (8) high levels of soluble CD25 (interleukin 2 receptor), and (9) hemophagocytosis in bone marrow, cerebrospinal fluid, or lymph nodes. Results of tests of initial bone marrow aspirate may be inconclusive, and repeated ones may be necessary. Half of the patients have abnormal cerebrospinal fluid findings. Several symptoms and laboratory findings provide supportive evidence.

CONCLUSIONS: Diagnostic criteria and supportive features are consistent throughout literature and are aided by the recent addition of genetic and protein-based testing. Diagnostic difficulty lies in the lack of pathognomonic features or specific diagnostic tests for FHL. Not all features present at the initial stage. Treatment should be initiated in cases of strong clinical suspicion.
CEREBRAL OXYGENATION RESPONSES DURING SKIN-TO-SKIN CARE IN LOW BIRTH WEIGHT INFANTS
Authors: Begum Esmot Ara , Bonno Motoki , Ohtani Noriko , Yamashita Shigeko , Tanaka Shigeki , Yamamoto Hatsumi , Kawai Masatoshi , Komada Yoshihiro
Published: January 2008

INTRODUCTION: Kangaroo care (KC) has been thought of as an important intervention for improving the care of low birth weight infants; however, the physiological effect of KC is still controversial.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to investigate physiological responses during KC.

METHODS: Sixteen low birth weight (<1600 g) infants with gestational ages of 24 to 32 weeks were studied. Heart rate (HR), respiration rate, pulse oxygen saturation (SPo2), and regional cerebral oxygenation (rSo2) were obtained in 3 periods continuously: before, during, and after KC. Spectral analysis was performed. Total amplitude, the power of low-frequency (LF; 0.06–0.10 Hz) band, high-frequency (HF, 0.15–0.40 Hz) band, and the ratio of LF/HF were calculated. Three groups were compared by analysis of variance.

RESULTS: Significant differences were not observed during KC in terms of mean HR, SPo2, and rSo2. By amplitude, these parameters were significantly decreased during KC (P < .001) and increased after KC (P < .001). The power of LF or HF was either significantly decreased during KC in HR, SPo2, and rSo2 (P < .05); however, the ratio of LF/HF was increased during KC in HR, whereas the ratio was decreased in rSo2 (P < .05).

CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest that KC influences the stability of rSo2 as well as HR and SPo2. Discrete results in the LF/HF ratio of rSo2 may indicate that KC has different effects on rSo2 associated with cerebral function.
INTRAVENOUS MAGNESIUM FOR TREATING ACUTE EXACERBATIONS OF ASTHMA IN CHILDREN: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW
Authors: Rackham Oliver , Paize Fauzia
Published: January 2008

INTRODUCTION: Inhaled bronchodilators and systemic corticosteroids are the mainstay of treatment for acute exacerbations of asthma. A systematic review of the use of magnesium has been published, but the results are incomplete and the recommendation is “weak.”

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to determine the effect of intravenous magnesium in children with acute asthma.

METHODS: Randomized, controlled trials were identified by searching the Cochrane, Medline, Embase, CINAHL, and ProQuest databases. Other sources were used to identify “gray literature.” Randomized, controlled trials in which children with an acute exacerbation of asthma were treated with intravenous magnesium versus placebo were included. Data were extracted from the full papers, and methodologic quality was assessed using a scale from 0 to 5.

RESULTS: Six studies involving 215 patients were included. Hospital stay was reduced in the magnesium-treated group. The percentage improvement in the percentage predicted peak expiratory flow rate was 43.5% greater in the treatment group. Significant differences were also seen in the forced expiratory volume in 1 second (weighted mean difference: 74.5%) and the forced vital capacity (weighted mean difference: 64.5%). There was improvement in asthma scores in 3 of the 4 studies that reported this outcome. There were no clinically significant differences in vital signs. No major adverse events were reported.

CONCLUSIONS: Intravenous magnesium is safe and beneficial as adjuvant therapy in the treatment of children with moderate to severe acute asthma. Magnesium should be for children who have moderate to severe acute exacerbations of asthma that do not respond to nebulized β-2 agonist.
DIAGNOSTIC BRONCHOALVEOLAR LAVAGE FOR PULMONARY FUNGAL INFECTIONS IN CRITICALLY ILL CHILDREN
Authors: Ashraf Maged , Kotby Alyaa , Shaheen Malak , Basim Hadia , El Masry Ahmed , Mansour Mervat
Published: January 2008

INTRODUCTION: The incidence of pulmonary fungal infection is increasing worldwide, particularly in critically ill patients.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to assess bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) as a diagnostic specimen for clinically and radiologically suspected fungal pneumonia in critically ill children.

METHODS: Thirty-five children who were admitted to the PICU of Ain Shams University because of their critical illness were included. All children underwent full medical history; thorough clinical examination, including general and local chest examination and basic laboratory investigations (from that, the Pediatric Risk of Mortality [PRISM] score was calculated to evaluate the critical illness severity); chest imaging; and bronchoscopic collection of BAL and microbiological assessment of BAL and blood using direct microscopic examination, cultured on Sabouraud dextrose agar, and fungal antigen detection using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent test for both Aspergillus galactomannan antigen and Candida mannan antigen.

RESULTS: Pulmonary fungal infection was documented in 77% of the studied children. BAL investigations proved to have a higher diagnostic yield in comparison with blood. Positive fungal antigens in BAL fluid were significantly higher than positive BAL fungal cultures in studied children. Analysis of the risk factors for fungal infection among the studied patients revealed that prolonged PICU stay (≥1 week) and high PRISM score (mean: 35.9 ± 6.46) were significant risk factors for fungal infection.

CONCLUSIONS: BAL fluid investigation has a significantly higher diagnostic value for pulmonary fungal infections than that of the blood. The results may be further improved especially if both culture and antigen fungal detections are combined.
CYTOKINE PROFILE IN LONG-TERM USE OF INHALED CORTICOSTEROID IN ASTHMATIC CHILDREN RECEIVING SPECIFIC IMMUNOTHERAPY
Authors: Harsono Ariyanto
Published: January 2008

INTRODUCTION: Inhaled corticosteroids are widely used for the management of persistent asthma, including by those who receive specific immunotherapy.

OBJECTIVE: Our goal was to elucidate the cytokine profile in long-term use of corticosteroid inhalation in asthmatic children who were receiving specific immunotherapy.

METHODS: We performed a randomized, paralleled, comparative study of asthmatic children allocated into 3 groups: those in group A received inhaled budesonide, those in group B received specific immunotherapy, and those in group C received both specific immunotherapy and inhaled budesonide. The primary outcomes were interleukin 4 (IL-4), IL-5, interferon γ (IFN-γ), and IL-2 levels and forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) reversibility.

RESULTS: Significant differences were observed before and after treatment in all groups (P < .05). Patients who received inhaled budesonide showed attenuation of IL-4, IL-5, IFN-γ, and IL-2 and 29% failure of FEV1 reversibility. Patients who received immunotherapy showed attenuation of IL-4 and IL-5, elevation of IFN-γ and IL-2, and 24% failure of improvement of FEV1 reversibility. Patients who received inhaled corticosteroids and immunotherapy showed attenuation of IL-4 and IL-5, elevation of IFN-γ and IL-2, and 100% improvement of FEV1 reversibility. Analysis of the discriminator yielded IL-2 as the primary discriminator, which correlated with the decrease of IL-5.

CONCLUSIONS: Long-term use of inhaled corticosteroids by children with asthma who received immunotherapy resulted in elevation of IFN-γ and IL-2 and a decrease of IL-4 and IL-5. Addition of inhaled corticosteroids to immunotherapy resulted in marked attenuation of IL-5 and correlated with greater elevation of IL-2.
RESPIRATORY SYNCYTIAL VIRUS INDUCED MORE SERIOUS INFECTION AND INFLAMMATION IN NUDE MICE THAN IN BALB/c MICE
Authors: Zhou Juan , Yang Xi-Qiang , Fu Zhou , Zhao Xiao-Dong , Jiang Li-Ping , Wang Li-Jia , Cui Yu-Xia
Published: January 2008

INTRODUCTION: Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection is ubiquitous and leads to severe disease in immunocompromised individuals.

OBJECTIVE: Our goal was to compare RSV infection and inflammation between immunocompetent BALB/c mice and immunodeficient nude mice.

METHODS: Pulmonary viral titers, histology, immunohistochemistry for CD14 and CD56, leukocyte counting, and cytokines were assayed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid.

RESULTS: RSV titers peaked on the third day after inoculation in both types of infected mice. Infected nude mice had higher-level and more durative viral replication, more severe pulmonary histopathology, and a larger number of leukocytes in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid than infected BALB/c mice. Infected nude mice displayed more pulmonary (CD14+) macrophages (114.34 ± 20.24 vs 75.46 ± 12.37; P = .05) and (CD56+) natural killer cells (37.87 ± 8.07 vs 11.06 ± 5.37; P = .05) than infected BALB/c mice. RSV infection enhanced production of tumor necrosis factor α, interleukin 12 (IL-12), interferon γ, and IL-10 in both types of mice. Infected nude mice had a higher level of tumor necrosis factor α (40.30 ± 7.34 vs 24.24 ± 9.54; P = .05), IL-12 (83.96 ± 12.32 vs 68.21 ± 7.42; P = .05), and IL-10 (125.01 ± 18.97 vs 77.56 ± 9.01; P = .05) than infected BALB/c mice.

CONCLUSIONS: RSV-infected nude mice are a good model for assessing severe and persistent infection in individuals at high risk. RSV-induced inflammation is not parallel to the immune response of T cells, and macrophages and natural killer cells contribute to severe infection and inflammation of RSV-infected cellular-immunodeficient individuals.
ASSOCIATION OF COMORBIDITY WITH OBESITY IN MEXICAN CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS
Authors: Perea-Martinez Arturo , Carbajal R. L. , Rodriguez H. R. , Zarco R. J. , Barrios F. R. , Loredo A. A.
Published: January 2008

INTRODUCTION: Obesity is a chronic and recurrent inflammatory disease, associated with high risk to health. It is a world public health problem that affects children and adolescents. It is present in rich and poor countries. Type 2 diabetes, systemic arterial hypertension, blood lipid disorders, and cardiovascular disease together compose the metabolic syndrome (BMI > 95th percentile, weight circumference ≥ 85th percentile, serum glucose ≥ 100 mg/dL, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ≤ 40 mg/dL, serum triglycerides ≥ 110 mg/dL); orthopedic lesions and psychosocial problems (marginalization and depression) are present early in life in obese individuals.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to describe the frequency of comorbidity in a cohort of 185 obese Mexican children and adolescents.

METHODS: A total of 185 obese Mexican children and adolescents were included in the study. The following parameters were measured: BMI, serum lipid profile, serum glucose, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, and serum uric acid. Complete physical examinations were performed, including blood pressure measurements.

RESULTS: BMI was at the 95th percentile in 97% of cases; 75% had ≥1 clinical indicator of comorbidity associated with obesity. Skin lesions (nigricans acanthosis; folliculitis; and grooves in hip, abdomen, and upper and lower extremities), serum lipid disorders (high level of serum triglycerides, low level of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol), systemic arterial hypertension, and others (eg, hypertransaminemia, hyperuricemia, orthopedic lesions) were the most common.

CONCLUSIONS: Obesity in children and adolescents is a severe world public health problem. Obese children and adolescents frequently had associated comorbidity. It is necessary to improve health, juridical, and educational world policies that prevent and support the treatment of obesity in early life.
EVALUATION OF TUBERCULIN SKIN TEST IN UNVACCINATED 0- TO 7-YEAR-OLD CHILDREN OF NORTHERN GREECE
Authors: Aivazis Victor , Vasiliadis Angelos , Aivazi Dimitra , Zardava Georgia , Sakellaropoulou Afroditi , Papadimitriou Eleni , Thanos Vasilios , Roilidis Emannouil
Published: January 2008

INTRODUCTION: The tuberculin skin test (TST) is an important tool in the diagnosis of tuberculosis in children.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the proportion of 0- to 7-year-old children with induration of 5 to 9 or ≥10 mm after TST.

METHODS: During the 5-year period 2001–2005, 65 401 0- to 7-year-old children (50.2% female) were enrolled in this study and TST was performed before BCG vaccination. Mantoux reaction and the extent of induration of the transversal diameter were evaluated. Among 65 401 children, 8018 were 0 to 5 years of age (group A) and 57 383 were 6 to 7 years of age (group B).

RESULTS: In group A, 19 (0.23%) children had induration within 5 to 9 mm (mean diameter: 6.81 mm) and 42 children (0.52%) had induration within 10 to 25 mm (mean: 14.4 mm). In group B, 62 (0.1%) children had induration within 5 to 9 mm (mean: 7.27 mm) and 186 (0.32%) children had induration within 10 to 30 mm (mean: 14.57 mm). Children with TST induration ≥10 mm were given treatment for tuberculosis; for those with induration of 5 to 9 mm, their environment was examined for the presence of risk factors.

CONCLUSIONS: The discovery of a high number of children with positive TST results (≥10 mm) in both groups indicates a remaining tuberculosis problem in Greece. The extent of induration up to 30 mm reveals the exposure of children of these age groups to high mycobacterial burden from adults with tuberculosis, especially immigrants from countries of Eastern Europe.
THYROID FUNCTION AND GHRELIN AND LEPTIN LEVELS IN OBESE CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS WITH AND WITHOUT INSULIN RESISTANCE
Authors: Stylianou Charilaos , Galli-Tsinopoulou Assimina , Kokka Paraskevi , Farmakiotis Demetrios , Koliakos George , Varlamis George
Published: January 2008

INTRODUCTION: Thyroid hormones ghrelin, leptin, and insulin are implicated in energy metabolism.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to investigate any relationship between thyroid function and ghrelin and leptin levels in selected euthyroid (thyrotropin: 0.35–4.94; free thyroxine [fT4]: 0.8–1.8; no autoimmune thyroiditis or iodine deficiency, no medications intake) obese children and adolescents with and without insulin resistance (IR).

METHODS: Forty obese children and 40 obese adolescents were enrolled. BMI, percentage of body fat, fasting glucose, insulin, ghrelin, leptin, thyrotropin, free triiodothyronine (fT3), and fT4 were measured. IR was estimated with homeostasis model assessment of IR index. The Mann-Whitney U test for independent samples was applied. Correlations were assessed by the Spearman coefficient.

RESULTS: In adolescents, fT3 levels were positively correlated with insulin and homeostasis model assessment of IR. In children, fT4 levels were negatively correlated with BMI and percentage of body fat (Table 1).

CONCLUSIONS: The observed positive correlation between IR and fT3 in adolescents might indicate an interplay between thyroid function and IR. Ghrelin levels are negatively affected by IR but not directly associated with thyroid hormone concentrations.

TABLE 1.Thyroid Function and Ghrelin and Leptin Levels in Obese Children and Adolescents With and Without Insulin ResistanceObese ChildrenObese AdolescentsIRNIR P IRNIR P n 20202020BMI, kg/m228.87 ± 3.8427.11 ± 4.53.12130.54 ± 4.7429.43 ± 3.87.678Body fat, %35.68 ± 4.7133.28 ± 4.98.15735.59 ± 6.0134.33 ± 5.14.461Homeostasis model assessment, IR5.00 ± 4.041.55 ± 0.64.0004.51 ± 1.531.80 ± 0.56.000Insulin, μIU/mL22.53 ± 15.027.33 ± 2.64.00020.04 ± 5.769.01 ± 2.65.000Ghrelin, pmol/L831.29 ± 379.19902.96 ± 360.49.355860.12 ± 289.891102.09 ± 366.10.043Leptin, ng/mL36.22 ± 14.9435.20 ± 23.43.30142.31 ± 21.8134.75 ± 17.93.221Thyrotropin, μIU/mL2.28 ± 1.222.15 ± 0.75.7792.20 ± 1.152.06 ± 1.24.659fT3, pg/mL4.61 ± 0.924.59 ± 0.64.9894.19 ± 0.684.12 ± 1.08.529fT4, ng/dL1.32 ± 0.141.37 ± 0.22.4951.22 ± 0.121.29 ± 0.17.398