bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Naringin Supplementation on Cholesterol Metabolism and Antioxidant Status in Rats Fed High Cholesterol with Different Levels of Vitamin E
Authors: Choi Myung-Sook , Do Kyung-Min , Park Yong Bok , Jeon Seon-Min , Jeong Tae-Sook , Lee Yeoun-Kyung , Lee Mi-Kyung , Bok Song-Hae
Published: April 2003

Some bioflavonoids are potent antioxidants and have pharmacological effects similar to those of vitamin E. The interactive effect of naringin and vitamin E was studied with respect to cholesterol metabolism and antioxidant status. Naringin supplementation (0.1%, wt/wt) with comparable levels of vitamin E was given to rats with a high-cholesterol (1%, wt/wt) diet for 5 weeks. The amount of vitamin E included in naringin-free and naringin diets was a low (low-E) and a normal (normal-E) level. The naringin supplementation significantly lowered the concentrations of plasma cholesterol and triglyceride compared to the naringin-free group in low vitamin E-fed rats. HMG-CoA reductase activity was significantly lowered by naringin supplementation within both the low-vitamin E group (794.64 ± 9.87 vs. 432.18 ± 12.33 pmol/min/mg protein, mean ± SE; p < 0.05) and normal-vitamin E group (358.82 ± 11.4 vs. 218.22 ± 9.47 pmol/min/mg protein, mean ± SE; p < 0.05) compared to each of the naringin-free group. The HMG-CoA reductase activity was also significantly lowered by increased dietary vitamin E when compared within the naringin and naringin-free group, respectively. Neither dietary naringin nor vitamin E did significantly change the activities of hepatic antioxidant enzymes and plasma thiobarbituric acid-reactive substance level. These data indicate that naringin lowers the plasma lipid concentrations when the dietary vitamin E level is low. The HMG-CoA reductase-inhibitory effect of naringin was more potent when dietary vitamin E was at a normal level. These data may contribute to understanding the interactive effect of naringin and vitamin E on cholesterol biosynthesis in high-cholesterol-fed rats.
Einige entwicklungstheoretische Vorstellungen der Analytischen Psychologie
Authors: Stadler Peter
Published: April 2003

Einige entwicklungstheoretische Vorstellungen, welche in Theorie und Praxis der Analytischen Psychologie implizit enthalten sind, werden unter verschiedenen Gesichtspunkten betrachtet, um zu beschreiben, in welcher Weise persönliche psychische Entwicklung in der Analytischen Psychologie thematisch wird. Obwohl die Analytische Psychologie im Gegensatz zur Psychoanalyse nicht über eine allgemeine normative Theorie psychischer Entwicklung verfügt, lässt sich zeigen, dass die Analytische Psychologie eine Reihe von theoretischen Vorstellungen enthält, die sich auch auf Problemstellungen beziehen, welche in jüngerer Zeit zunehmend an Bedeutung gewonnen haben. Das betrifft beispielsweise die Triangulierung der intrapsychischen Struktur und der Objektbeziehungen und die Störung früher Stadien der Entwicklung, die zu Ursache-Faktoren einer neurotischen Entwicklung werden können.
Mismatch Negativity and Late Discriminative Negativity in Investigating Speech Perception and Learning in Children and Infants
Authors: Cheour M. , Korpilahti P. , Martynova O. , Lang A.-H.
Published: April 2003

For decades, behavioral methods, such as the head-turning or sucking paradigms, have been the primary tools to investigate speech perception and learning of a language in infancy. Recently, however, new methods provided by event-related potentials have emerged. These are called mismatch negativity (MMN) and late discriminative negativity (LDN). MMN, the brain’s automatic change-detection response in audition, has been intensively used in adults in both basic and clinical studies for longer than 20 years. LDN, on the other hand, was only recently discovered. There seem to be many differences between these two responses. MMN is developmentally quite stable and can be obtained even from preterm infants. LDN, however, can be obtained most reliably from young children, and its amplitude decreases as a function of age. New data suggest that both of these responses have a special role in language processing, although both of them can also be elicited by nonspeech stimuli.
Auditory Cortical Spatial Receptive Fields
Authors: Brugge John F. , Reale Richard A. , Jenison Rick L. , Schnupp Jan
Published: April 2003

Neurons in the primary auditory cortex (AI) of anesthetized cats were studied for their sensitivity to directions of transient sounds in virtual acoustic space under a variety of conditions. An effective transient sound evokes a single spike or short burst of spikes with a precisely timed onset. The aggregate of effective directions forms a spatial receptive field. Typically, spatial receptive fields are large, often occupying a quadrant or more of acoustic space. Within the receptive field onset latency varies systematically with direction thereby providing information about source direction. This receptive field structure is highly robust, remaining relatively stable under conditions of competing sounds. Maximum likelihood analysis suggests that psychophysical spatial acuity can be achieved with a relatively small ensemble of AI neurons with broad receptive fields having response gradients of latency. Using reverse correlation and white-noise analysis receptive fields were mapped in space and time. This analysis revealed that spatial receptive fields of AI neurons need not be static but may exhibit marked temporal dynamics. This suggests a sensitivity for direction and speed of moving sound sources.
How Plastic Is Spatial Hearing?
Authors: King Andrew J. , Kacelnik Oliver , Mrsic-Flogel Thomas D. , Schnupp Jan W.H. , Parsons Carl H. , Moore David R.
Published: April 2003

The location of a sound source is derived by the auditory system from spatial cues present in the signals at the two ears. These cues include interaural timing and level differences, as well as monaural spectral cues generated by the external ear. The values of these cues vary with individual differences in the shape and dimensions of the head and external ears. We have examined the neurophysiological consequences of these intersubject variations by recording the responses of neurons in ferret primary auditory cortex to virtual sound sources mimicking the animal’s own ears or those of other ferrets. For most neurons, the structure of the spatial response fields changed significantly when acoustic cues measured from another animal were presented. This is consistent with the finding that humans localize less accurately when listening to virtual sounds from other subjects. To examine the role of experience in shaping the ability to localize sound, we have studied the behavioural consequences of altering binaural cues by chronically plugging one ear. Ferrets raised and tested with one ear plugged learned to localize as accurately as control animals, which is consistent with previous findings that the representation of auditory space in the midbrain can accommodate abnormal sensory cues during development. Adaptive changes in behaviour were also observed in adults, particularly if they were provided with regular practice in the localization task. Together, these findings suggest that the neural circuits responsible for sound localization can be recalibrated throughout life.
Models of Plasticity in Spatial Auditory Processing
Authors: Shinn-Cunningham Barbara
Published: April 2003

Both psychophysical and physiological studies have examined plasticity of spatial auditory processing. While there is a great deal known about how the system computes basic cues that influence spatial perception, less is known about how these cues are integrated to form spatial percepts and how the auditory system adapts and calibrates in order to maintain accurate spatial perception. After summarizing evidence for plasticity in the spatial auditory pathway, this paper reviews a statistical, decision-theory model of short-term plasticity and a system-level model of the spatial auditory pathway that may help elucidate how long- and short-term experiences influence the computations underlying spatial hearing.
Delayed Maturation and Sensitive Periods in the Auditory Cortex
Authors: Kral Andrej , Hartmann Rainer , Tillein Jochen , Heid Silvia , Klinke Rainer
Published: April 2003

Behavioral data indicate the existence of sensitive periods in the development of audition and language. Neurophysiological data demonstrate deficits in the cerebral cortex of auditory-deprived animals, mainly in reduced cochleotopy and deficits in corticocortical and corticothalamic loops. In addition to current spread in the cochlea, reduced cochleotopy leads to channel interactions after cochlear implantation. Deficits in corticocortical and corticothalamic loops interfere with normal processing of auditory activity in cortical areas. Thus, the deprived auditory cortex cannot mature normally in congenital deafness. This maturation can be achieved using auditory experience through cochlear implants. However, implantation is necessary within the sensitive period of the auditory system. The functional role of long-term potentiation and long-term depression, inhibition, cholinergic modulation and neurotrophins in auditory development and sensitive periods are discussed.
Cochlear Transduction: From Models to Molecules and Back Again
Authors: Ashmore Jonathan F. , Chambard Jean-Marie , Richmond Sarah
Published: April 2003

The strides made over the last few years towards understanding many details of cochlear function still leave a number of issues unresolved. Integrating the information from molecular, genetic and, increasingly, genomic sources requires models that provide close matching between data and theory. For both theoretical and experimental reasons, the difficult area in cochlear physiology has been to understand how sensory transduction operates at the basal end of the mammalian cochlea. The identification of candidate motor proteins in outer hair cells (OHCs) draws attention to the question of whether we understand cochlear tuning. Nevertheless, the association of the cloned motor protein ‘prestin’ with an anion transporter superfamily provides clues about the molecular nature of the OHC motor in the basolateral membrane, the utilisation of chloride in hair cells and the long-term stability of small basal turn cochlear hair cells.
Purinergic Regulation of Sound Transduction and Auditory Neurotransmission
Authors: Housley G.D. , Jagger D.J. , Greenwood D. , Raybould N.P. , Salih S.G. , Järlebark L.E. , Vlajkovic S.M. , Kanjhan R. , Nikolic P. , Muñoz D.J.M. , Thorne P.R
Published: April 2003

In the cochlea, extracellular ATP influences the endocochlear potential, micromechanics, and neurotransmission via P2 receptors. Evidence for this arises from studies demonstrating widespread expression of ATP-gated ion channels (assembled from P2X receptor subunits) and G protein-coupled receptors (P2Y receptors). P2X2 receptor subunits are localized to the luminal membranes of epithelial cells and hair cells lining scala media. These ion channels provide a shunt pathway for K+ ion egress. Thus, when noise exposure elevates ATP levels in this cochlear compartment, the K+ conductance through P2X receptors reduces the endocochlear potential. ATP-mediated K+ efflux from scala media is complemented by a P2Y receptor G protein-coupled pathway that provides coincident reduction of K+ transport into scala media from the stria vascularis when autocrine or paracrine ATP signalling is invoked. This purinergic signalling likely provides a basis for a reactive homoeostatic regulatory mechanism limiting cochlear sensitivity under stressor conditions. Elevation of ATP in the perilymphatic compartment under such conditions is also likely to invoke purinergic receptor-mediated changes in supporting cell micromechanics, mediated by Ca2+ influx and gating of Ca2+ stores. Independent of these humoral actions, ATP can be classified as a putative auditory neurotransmitter based on the localization of P2X receptors at the spiral ganglion neuron-hair cell synapse, and functional verification of ATP-gated currents in spiral ganglion neurons in situ. Expression of P2X receptors by type II spiral ganglion neurons supports a role for ATP as a transmitter encoding the dynamic state of the cochlear amplifier.
Newly Developed Immobilized Polymyxin B Fibers Improve the Survival of Patients with Sepsis
Authors: Nemoto Hironori , Nakamoto Hidetomo , Okada Hirokazu , Sugahara Souichi , Moriwaki Kenshi , Arai Mitsuru , Kanno Yoshihiko , Suzuki Hiromichi
Published: April 2003

Background: Sepsis and septic shock are still major causes of morbidity and mortality in spite of the availability of powerful and broadly active antibiotics. Methods: A prospective, open and randomized trial of the effect of immobilized polymyxin fibers (PMX-F) on the survival of patients with sepsis throughout a follow-up period of 28 days or until discharge, if earlier, was carried out. Ninety-eight patients were included who met at least 4 of the criteria for systemic inflammatory response syndrome due to infection. The patients were classified into three groups based on their Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) II score. Results: The overall survival rate was significantly improved by using PMX-F compared to the control group (41 vs. 11%) (p = 0.002). In patients with an APACHE II score less than 20, treatment with PMX-F was shown to improve outcome (65 vs. 19%) (p = 0.01). In cases of more severe sepsis with an APACHE II score of 20–29, PMX-F still maintained efficacy in improving outcome (40 vs. 11%) (p = 0.04). However, PMX-F treatment did not improve the survival rate in patients with an APACHE II score of greater than 30 (survival rate 7 vs. 0%) (p = 0.59). Conclusion: From these results, it is concluded that treatment with PMX-F in patients with sepsis is effective and prolongs the survival rate when applied at an early stage of sepsis. However, in severe sepsis, this therapy does not improve the survival rate.
Intravenous Catheter for Intracorporeal Plasma Filtration
Authors: Handley Harold H. , Gorsuch Rey , Levin Nathan W. , Ronco Claudio
Published: April 2003

Future advances in dialysis of end-stage renal disease patients may include improvements in therapeutic continuity and patient mobility. Continuous renal replacement therapies could lead to self-contained, mobile and potentially wearable dialysis units. We investigated an experimental, intravenous slow-continuous plasma separation system (IPSS) as a precursor to direct intravenous hemofiltration. An intracorporeal catheter employs asymmetric hollow fibers to separate blood cells from plasma in vivo. The fibers possess a sieving coefficient of 0.7 µm and remove 99.99% of all platelets. In vivo, catheters sustain an average plasma separation flow rate of 3 ml/min over 22 h, sufficient to remove 2 net liters of water from pigs through an extracorporeal hemofilter. Used catheter fibers are relatively free of protein deposition or clots in situ. In vitro studies suggest that human catheters may perform at 3–4 times the rate of porcine catheters. IPSS is proposed for acute fluid removal in CHF patients refractory to diuretics.
Use of Knockout Mice to Study Surfactant Protein Structure and Function
Authors: Weaver Timothy E. , Beck David C.
Published: April 2003

Pulmonary surfactant protein B (SP-B) is a 79 amino acid peptide that is intimately associated with surfactant phospholipids in the alveolar airspace. Mutations of the SP-B gene that result in complete absence of SP-B are invariably fatal in the neonatal period. The pathology associated with SP-B deficiency suggests that SP-B plays a critical role in integrating the synthesis, assembly and metabolism of the surfactant complex. A strategy is described to elucidate the role of SP-B in surfactant homeostasis by characterizing the pathophysiology associated with cell specific expression of SP-B constructs in vivo. Human SP-B constructs, under control of lung cell-specific promoters, were expressed in SP-B knockout mice in order to achieve expression of the human transgene in a null background. The effect of transgene expression on lung structure and function was assessed by biochemical, morphological and physiological analyses of the surfactant system in fetal and postnatal offspring.
Lung Surfactant Proteins A and D in Innate Immune Defense
Authors: Vaandrager Arie B. , van Golde Lambert M.G.
Published: April 2003

The lung surfactant proteins (SP) A and D are large multimeric proteins and belong to a family of collagenous C-type lectins designated collectins. Both SP-A and SP-D are believed to play a role in the innate immunity of the lung. SP-A and SP-D bind to a broad spectrum of pathogens, including bacteria, viruses, fungi and yeasts but also lipopolysaccharides and allergens. Furthermore, SP-A and SP-D enhance the clearing of various pathogens by neutrophils and macrophages in vitro. Recent in vivo studies on SP-A deficient mice also support a role of SP-A in host defense.
Elevated Type IV Collagen in Bronchoalveolar Lavage Fluid from Infants with Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia
Authors: Ohki Yasushi , Kato Masahiko , Kimura Hirokazu , Nako Yasushi , Tokuyama Kenichi , Morikawa Akihiro
Published: April 2003

We measured the levels of type IV collagen and lipid peroxides in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) from infants with respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) to determine the relationship to the development of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). We analyzed their levels between two groups, RDS infants who developed BPD (n = 8, BPD group) and those who did not (n = 11, RDS group). The levels of the type IV collagen in the BPD group were significantly higher than those in the RDS group at 3 and 7 days of age (p = 0.0024). In the BPD group, persistently increased levels of the type IV collagen were observed during the period up to 14 days of age. There was a positive relationship between the type IV collagen levels and polymorphonuclear leukocyte counts, and thiobarbituric acid-reactive substance levels in BALF. These results suggest that the increased type IV collagen levels in BALF of BPD infants may reflect pulmonary basement membrane damage and the involvement of oxygen metabolites in its process.
Net Amino Acid Flux across the Fetal Liver and Placenta during Spontaneous Ovine Parturition
Authors: Timmerman Michelle , Teng Cecilia , Wilkening Randall B. , Chung Misoo , Battaglia Frederick C.
Published: April 2003

The uptake and/or release of amino acids across the fetal liver and the placenta were studied in 8 pregnant sheep during the 5 days preceding delivery of the lamb. During spontaneous parturition, there was a significant decrease in fetal hepatic glutamine uptake, in fetal hepatic glutamate release and in placental glutamate uptake. The fetal plasma concentrations of glutamate, leucine, isoleucine, valine, phenylalanine, serine and tyrosine also decreased significantly in the 5 days preceding delivery. There was no significant net output of glucose from the fetal liver nor any change in net lactate uptake by the liver. During this same time period there was a significant increase in the fetal plasma cortisol concentration and a decrease in progesterone output by the pregnant uterus. The results are compared to the previously reported amino acid changes during dexamethasone-induced parturition.
Ibuprofen Affects Pro- and Anti-Inflammatory Cytokine Production by Mononuclear Cells of Preterm Newborns
Authors: Sirota L. , Shacham D. , Punsky I. , Bessler H.
Published: April 2003

The in vitro effect of ibuprofen (IB) on the production of the proinflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL) 1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10 by cord blood mononuclear cells from preterm newborns was compared to that of peripheral blood mononuclear cells of adults. Mononuclear cells were incubated without or with lipopolysaccharide in the absence or presence of various concentrations of IB. The levels of IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, and IL-10 in the supernatants were tested by ELISA. The mononuclear cells from the two groups responded to IB by an increased secretion of IL-6 and TNF-α and by a reduced production of IL-10. The pattern of response to the drug was similar following stimulation with lipopolysaccharide. The IL-1β production was mostly unaffected by IB. It is suggested that in preterm newborns the differences observed in the in vitro proinflammatory cytokine production in response to IB, as observed in the present study, or to indomethacin, as reported previously, may affect various clinical outcomes using these two drugs.
Hyponatremia and Sensorineural Hearing Loss in Preterm Infants
Authors: Ertl Tibor , Hadzsiev Kinga , Vincze Olga , Pytel József , Szabo István , Sulyok Endre
Published: April 2003

In a case-control study the role of hyponatremia in the hearing loss of preterm infants was investigated. One hundred and sixty-four premature infants treated at the neonatal intensive care unit were screened with transient evoked otoacoustic emission (TEAOE). In 32 infants TEAOE results indicated the need for further investigations. Auditory brainstem response was performed and 22 of 32 cases had bilateral hearing impairment (HI). The birth weight and gestational age in the HI group were 1,425 ± 528 g and 30.4 ± 3.7 weeks. The matched control group consisted of 25 infants with a mean birth weight and gestational age of 1,410 ± 280 g and 31.1 ± 2.1 weeks. Significant differences were found between the HI and control groups: Apgar score (p < 0.05), pH value (p < 0.01) and pO2 level (p < 0.05) were lower; the total dose of aminoglycosides (p < 0.01), furosemide usage (p < 0.01), the maximum pCO2 level (p < 0.01), incubator stay (p < 0.05) and hyponatremia (p < 0.01) were higher, and the duration of hyponatremia (p < 0.05) was longer in the HI group. Multivariate logistic regression revealed that aminoglycoside treatment and hyponatremia were the two most significant factors in the development of hearing impairment. These results suggest that hyponatraemia is an additional risk factor for hearing loss in preterm infants.
Effects of Impulse Noise Stimulation on Electrocorticogram and Heart Rate
Authors: Bauer Reinhard , Gerhardt Kenneth J. , Abrams Robert M. , Huang Xinyan , Bauer Kathrin
Published: April 2003

It is now recognized that high-level impulse noises penetrate the uterus of pregnant sheep, elevate thresholds of fetal auditory-evoked potential and produce damage to fetal inner ear hair cells. However, little is known about functional effects of airborne impulse noise on the late-term fetus. In the present study, the effects of a series of 20 impulses on the behavioral state of 6 fetal sheep were tested. Noise impulses produced 169.3 peak sound pressure level (pSPL) in air. Peak levels recorded near the fetal head averaged 161.1 dB. Impulses delivered to the fetus during periods of NREM sleep resulted in a decrease in average fetal heart rate (FHR) from 185 ± 22 beats/min (bpm) before stimulation to 174 ± 23 bpm 2–5 s after stimulation (p < 0.05). During REM sleep, an FHR acceleration occurred (before stimulation: 177 ± 24 bpm, after stimulation: 189 ± 31 bpm; p < 0.05). Impulse exposure during NREM sleep resulted in reductions in delta-, theta- and alpha-band powers. As a consequence, total power decreased from 100 to 72 ± 16% (p < 0.05). During REM sleep, stimulation provoked a short decrease in total band power from 100 to 73 ± 20% and a similar decrease in the theta- and beta-band powers. The results indicated that impulse noise evoked short-term alterations in FHR and cortical activity. These changes were mediated by auditory brain stem activation that led to cortical desynchronization during both NREM and REM sleep in late-term fetal sheep.
Advanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging Techniques in Perinatal Brain Injury1
Authors: Hüppi Petra S. , Amato Maurizio
Published: April 2003

Despite marked improvements in perinatal practice, perinatal brain injury remains one of the most common complications causing chronic handicapping conditions. Experimental advances have elucidated many of the cellular and vascular mechanisms of perinatal brain damage showing a correlation between the nature of the injury and the maturation of the brain. New diagnostic tools, such as quantitative three-dimensional magnetic resonance (MR) imaging, diffusion-weighted MR imaging and proton MR spectroscopy, are presented in this review article that allow to assess brain development, detect early brain injury and monitor effects of perinatal brain injury on subsequent brain development and brain plasticity. These techniques will guide future therapeutic interventions aimed at minimizing irreversible perinatal brain injury.
Increased Constriction of the Ductus Arteriosus with Combined Administration of Indomethacin and L-NAME in Fetal Rats
Authors: Takizawa Tatsuya , Kihara Takumi , Kamata Akira
Published: April 2003

We studied age-related changes and the caliber of the ductus arteriosus (DA) after two-pathway inhibition of prostaglandin E2 and nitric oxide (NO) by the combined administration of indomethacin, a cyclooxygenase inhibitor, and NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME), an NO synthase inhibitor, in fetal rats. Pregnant rats from day 18 to 21 of gestation were used. They were administered indomethacin orally (3 mg/kg) 3 h before cesarean section, and then L-NAME (50 mg/kg) was injected intraperitoneally 3 h before the rats were killed. Using rapid-freezing and shaving methods, the caliber of the DA in fetal rats was measured. Compared with the indomethacin alone group, indomethacin plus L-NAME further constricted the DA after indomethacin and L-NAME were simultaneously administered 3 h before the rats were sacrificed. The extent of the final DA constriction was almost equal to the addition of each effect of indomethacin and L-NAME. We concluded that the magnitude of DA constriction following indomethacin plus L-NAME was due to the additive effects of these agents, suggesting a possible method to treat patent DA in premature infants.
mRNA D2 Dopaminergic Receptor Expression after Hypoxia-Ischemia in Rat Immature Brain
Authors: Cantagrel Sylvain , Gressens Pierre , Bodard Sylvie , Suc Annie-Laure , Laugier Jean , Guilloteau Denis , Chalon Sylvie
Published: April 2003

Previous studies have shown a reduction of dopaminergic D2 receptors (D2R) in the striatum after hypoxia-ischemia in newborn rats. We show here an early and transient reduction of mRNA D2R in nonatrophic brains following hypoxia-ischemia. The left carotid artery of P7 rats was ligated followed by hypoxia for 2 h. The rats were sacrificed after 24 h, 48 h and 14 days. D2R mRNA was studied by in situ hybridization, the cell number by conventional histology, and neuronal and astrocyte differentiation by immunohistochemistry. A 20% reduction of striatal mRNA D2R occurred 24 h after hypoxia-ischemia, whereas no reduction was observed after 48 h and 14 days. There were no differences in total cell number and in the expression of neuronal (MAP-1, MAP-2) and astrocyte (GFAP) markers between both brain hemispheres nor between control and hypoxia-ischemia animals. The early decrease in mRNA D2R could explain the delayed reduced D2R after neonatal hypoxia-ischemia.
Prescription of Home Oxygen Therapy to Infants in Germany
Authors: Peter Corinna , Poets Christian F.
Published: April 2003

There is no consensus on home oxygen therapy in infancy. We hypothesised that this might lead to considerable variability in the practice of prescribing home oxygen to infants. To assess this variability, a structured questionnaire was sent to all departments of Paediatrics in Germany (n = 380). Response rate was 92% (n = 349). Indications were mostly (86%) based on long-term recordings of pulse oximeter saturation (SPO2). There was, however, a wide range (85–94%, mean 90%) of SPO2-values below which oxygen therapy was considered indicated. Hospitals more experienced with this therapy tended to prescribe oxygen at SPO2 values closer to the physiological range. Similarly, SPO2 values aimed for during therapy ranged from 86 to 100%, with hospitals prescribing home oxygen more frequently aiming for higher values. These differences would argue for concentrating home oxygen therapy to centers with the largest experience.
Thyroid Function in Healthy and Sick Very-Low-Birth-Weight Infants – Thyrotropin and Free Thyroxine Levels until the Sixth Week of Age
Authors: Dembinski J. , Arpe V. , Kroll M. , Bartmann P. , Hieronimi G.
Published: April 2003

Hypothyroxinemia in preterm infants without congenital hypothyroidism is associated with developmental delay. Longitudinal information on thyroid function in very-low-birth-weight (VLBW, <1,500 g birth weight) infants is limited: we present data on thyroid function in sick and healthy VLBW infants until 6 weeks of age. Free T4 and TSH levels routinely obtained on days 14–21 and days 35–49 in 92 consecutive VLBW infants were correlated retrospectively with neonatal morbidity. Free T4 levels were positively correlated with gestational age; an independent effect of neonatal disease on thyroid function was not detectable.
Expression and Activity of the Ca2+-ATPase Enzyme in Human Neonatal Erythrocytes
Authors: Kocsis István , Vásárhelyi Barna , Héninger Erika , Vér Ágota , Tulassay Tivadar
Published: April 2003

The plasma membrane Ca2+-ATPase (PMCA) is one of the main regulators of Ca2+ homeostasis. We studied the perinatal alteration of the abundance and the activity of PMCA molecules in human erythrocytes in pre-term and full-term neonates and children at the age of 1–4 years. The lower abundance of the 4b isoform was associated with lower enzyme activity in full-term neonates compared to children. Although the number of PMCA molecules was higher in pre-term neonates, their total PMCA activities were identical to those of full-term neonates. Our findings suggest that the abundance of PMCA molecules changes during the perinatal development. The same activity at higher enzyme molecule numbers might indicate a potential immaturity of the enzyme in the pre-term infant.
Age-Dependent Effect of Domperidone on Dopamine Release by the Hypoxic Carotid Body in the Rabbit
Authors: Bairam Aida , Kinkead Richard , Marchal François
Published: April 2003

The aim of this study was to identify the mechanisms that regulate dopamine release (DAr) by the hypoxic carotid body (CB) during development. CBs sampled from adult (n = 58) and 10-day-old (n = 53) rabbits were incubated for 1 h in a medium equilibrated with 8% O2 in N2 without or in the presence of the specific DA D2 receptor antagonist domperidone, 0.01, 0.1 and 1 µM. DA and its major metabolite DOPAC were measured in the CB (DACB) and in the medium (DAr) by HPLC+ED. In adults, each concentration of domperidone significantly decreased DACB and increased DAr, compared with control (p < 0.01). In contrast, in 10-day old, only the 1 µM domperidone concentration decreased DACB and increased DAr compared with control (p < 0.001). The data show that domperidone increases CB DAr in response to hypoxia in a concentration- and age-dependent manner and suggest this response depends, in part, on the functional maturation of CB DA D2 receptors.
Effect of Dexamethasone on IL-10 and IL-12p40 Production in Newborns and Adults
Authors: Bessler H. , Kagazanov S. , Punsky I. , Sirota L.
Published: April 2003

The effect of dexamethasone (DEX) on interleukin (IL)-10 and IL-12p40 production was examined in preterm newborns, term infants and was compared to that in adults. Mononuclear cells isolated from newborn cord blood (CBMC) and peripheral blood from adults (PBMC) were incubated with lipopolysaccharide in the absence or presence of DEX at concentrations between 10–8 and 10–5 M. Cytokine concentration in the supernatants was tested using ELISA kits. DEX induced a dose-dependent inhibition of IL-10 production by PBMC from adults whereas CBMC from newborns were mostly unaffected by the drug. DEX caused a dose-dependent inhibition of IL-12p40 secretion by cells of the three age groups, although to a different extent. Since IL-12 plays a critical role in the development of a protective immune response to fungal infection, it is conceivable that the inhibition of IL-12p40 secretion caused by DEX may contribute to the increased occurrence of fungal infections in preterms treated with this drug.
Reparation of a Severe Case of Aplasia cutis congenita with Engineered Skin
Authors: Donati Vera , Arena Saverio , Capilli Gaetano , Carrera Giuseppe , Ciralli Fabrizio , Liberatore Aldo
Published: April 2003

Aplasia cutis congenita (ACC) is an uncommon congenital malformation. It is characterized by defects of the skin that occur most frequently on the scalp along the midline, but can also be localized on the trunk, face and limbs, usually with a symmetrical distribution. When it is localized in the skull it can extend to the dura mater, leaving only the thin pia mater to protect the brain. The most common complications related to this disorder are infection, hemorrhage, and, in defects localized on the vertex, meningitis and bleeding from the sagittal sinus can occur with dramatic consequences. In those cases some authors suggest the use of local flaps even if this implies a surgical procedure. In this case a 2.540-kg baby was delivered at 40 weeks of gestation be eutocic delivery, and good adaptation to extrauterine life. At birth the baby showed a large cutaneous and osseous defect at the vertex measuring 68 cm2, equal to almost one third of the calvarial surface, and extended to the dura mater through which it was possible to see the sagittal sinus and the brain surface with its vessels. Skull X-rays showed loss of normal radioopacity of the cranial vault with lack of ossification especially at the parietal level. In our patient we therefore decided to use a composite graft of cultured autologous fibroblasts and keratinocytes to provide coverage, avoiding any surgical procedure and patient morbidity. This technique consists first in an autograft of cultured fibroblasts which has proved to promote the production of type IV collagen, fibronectin and laminin whereby creating an ideal bed for the taking of the graft of cultured keratinocytes, to be put in place a week later. The use of a composite graft with both the derma-like and epithelial components has been also suggested to diminish scarring. Two months after the last graft area was completely closed.
Definition of Fetal Growth Restriction According to Constitutional Growth Potential
Authors: Mamelle N. , Cochet V. , Claris O.
Published: April 2003

Identification of newborn babies with fetal growth restriction remains a problem both from the multi-factorial aspect of fetal growth and from statistical definition. Besides the usual terms: ‘Small for gestational age’ (SGA) and intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR), often used synonymously, the term ‘fetal growth retardation’ was recently introduced in reference to the genetic growth potential of infants. From a sample of 72,000 births, we have designed a statistical model in order to estimate the expected birth weight taking into account gestational age, sex, birth rank, maternal age, height and pregravid weight, we then calculated an individual limit of birth weight under that a newborn must be considered as having a ‘fetal growth restriction’ quoted FwGR. This new approach allowed us to identify 2 groups of newborns with FGR, one classically identified as SGA (noted FwGRI) (3.9%), and the other newly identified as FGR (noted FwGRII) (1.4%). In contrast, this approach allowed us to identify a group of ‘constitutionally small’ infants according to their constitutional growth potential (1.1%). In other words, among infants usually defined as SGA (5%), 22% appeared in fact to be ‘constitutionally small’ and therefore misclassified. As an initial validation, we observed that the proportion of maternal hypertension during pregnancy was low in the ‘constitutionally small’ infants (close to that of the normal group), and three times higher in the newly identified group FwGRII than in the normal group. Following these results, it seems to be meaningful to follow-up this new group of FwGRII infants, in terms of catch-up growth and neurodevelopmental outcome.
Brain Excitatory Amino Acid Concentrations Are Lower in the Neonatal Pig: A Buffer against Excitotoxicity?
Authors: Darling Bryan K. , Abdel-Rahim Maged , Moores Russell R. , Chang Audrey S. , Howard Robin S. , O’Neill J. Timothy
Published: April 2003

Hypoglycemic brain damage has been associated with high levels of the excitatory amino acids (EAA) aspartate and glutamate in the newborn and adult. We hypothesized that newborn piglet EAA would be different from those of older pigs when stressed with severe insulin-induced hypoglycemia (<30 mg/dl). Brain EAA were measured in piglets and adolescent pigs via microdialysis. Eleven of 12 newborn normoglycemic piglets had no detectable baseline levels (<0.5 µM) of EAA, while pigs had aspartate and glutamate concentrations of 1.78 ± 0.44 and 3.43 ± 1.14 µM (mean ± SEM), respectively. Piglet aspartate and glutamate concentrations reached but did not significantly exceed normoglycemic pig levels after 2 h with plasma glucose values ≤20 mg/ml. Elevations in EAA were only detected in piglets whose EEG activity ceased. Aspartate and glutamate concentrations did not increase in insulin-treated pigs nor in control animals. We speculate that newborns with blood glucose less than clinically acceptable values (35 mg/dl) may be protected from EAA-associated neuronal damage during acute hypoglycemia. Lower normoglycemic and hypoglycemic levels of EAA in newborns when compared to older pigs provide this protection.
Thyroid Hormone Metabolism and the Developing Human Lung
Authors: Hume Robert , Richard Kerry , Kaptein Ellen , Stanley Emma L. , Visser Theo J. , Coughtrie Michael W.H.
Published: April 2003

Thyroid hormones are involved in the regulation of fetal lung development, and maturation is accelerated in animal models by antepartum exposure to raised concentrations of the receptor-active thyroid hormone triiodothyronine and glucocorticoids. It is essential that the nature of the regulation of the spatial and temporal metabolism of iodothyronines in the human fetus and infant is known before effective therapies can be developed to modify human lung maturation. Thyroid hormone bioavailability to the human fetus is regulated in part by enzymatic deiodination and reversible sulfation of iodothyronines, with contributions from other factors such as fetomaternal and fetoamniotic hormone transfers, fetal thyroid gland production, and the activities of plasma membrane transporters mediating uptake of iodothyronines from plasma into tissues.
Experimental Models of Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome: Clinical Relevance and Response to Surfactant Therapy
Authors: Kobayashi Tsutomu , Tashiro Katsumi , Cui Xiaoguang , Konzaki Tomoharu , Xu Yongmei , Kabata Chiharu , Yamamoto Ken
Published: April 2003

Surfactant therapy for acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) has shown encouraging results in animal studies, but not always in clinical trials. Efficacy of this therapy may be limited to ARDS caused by indirect injury, but mistiming of its application in clinical trials may be responsible for the discouraging results. In addition, the therapy may not last long enough to be effective. In rats with acidified milk aspiration, the effects of aerosolized surfactant therapy followed by inhalation of aerosolized dextran (molecular weight, 40,000) last significantly longer than those of aerosolized surfactant therapy alone. This mode of surfactant therapy could lead to better results since it can be started and repeated at any time.
Umbilical Cord Care: The Effect of Eight Different Cord-Care Regimens on Cord Separation Time and Other Outcomes
Authors: Pezzati Marco , Biagioli Elena Cosenza , Martelli Elena , Gambi Beatrice , Biagiotti Roberto , Rubaltelli Firmino F.
Published: April 2003

In this study we evaluate the effect of eight cord-care regimens on cord separation time and other secondary outcomes: omphalitis, sepsis, death, cord bleeding, compliance, satisfaction or dissatisfaction with regard to the type of treatment, umbilical cord colonization – in 1,535 healthy term infants. The eight cord-care regimens studied were: 70% alcohol, natural drying, salicylic sugar powder, triple dye, micronized green clay powder, colloid silver-benzyl-peroxide powder, neomycin-bacitracin powder, 1% basic fuchsine. None of the newborns developed sepsis or died and we found only sporadic cases of omphalitis. With regard to cord separation time the best results were obtained with salicylic sugar powder (5.6 ± 2.3 days) and green clay powder (6.7 ± 2.2 days). Both forms of treatment proved to be more effective (p < 0.05) than all the others. We found that salicylic sugar powder allows for early cord detachment resulting in excellent parent treatment compliance and reduction of their concern, notwithstanding higher percentages of cord bleeding. The rate of positive umbilical swabs was low and was significantly higher only than the results obtained with neomycin-bacitracin powder treatment. This study demonstrates that, in hospital nurseries of developed countries, salicylic sugar powder can be effectively and safely used for umbilical cord care of healthy term infants.
Comparison of Effects of Perflubron and Surfactant Lung Lavage on Pulmonary Gas Exchange in a Piglet Model of Meconium Aspiration
Authors: Schlösser Rolf L. , Veldman Alex , Fischer Doris , Funk Benjamin , Brand Jörg , von Loewenich Volker
Published: April 2003

In a piglet model of meconium aspiration we compared lavage with surfactant with that with perflubron (PFOB) and a control group. A human meconium suspension was instilled into piglets which were randomized in 3 (n = 6 each) groups. After lung injury, the control group was ventilated with high-frequency oscillatory ventilation (HFOV) without suctioning and lavage. A second group was lavaged with 10 ml/kg diluted surfactant, a third with 10 ml/kg pre-oxygenated PFOB. Thereafter, the animals of both groups were ventilated with HFOV. After lung injury by instillation of meconium, no further improvement in oxygenation was possible in animals of the control group and 3 piglets died during the ventilation. The subjects of the surfactant group improved promptly, and at the end of the study the arterial pO2 was significantly better than immediately after injury as compared with the other groups. Lavage with PFOB had intermediate effects in gas exchange and oxygenation compared to surfactant lavage. No differences were observed in arterial blood pressure and heart rate as well as in histological lung injury score between all groups. Lavage with exogenous surfactant as well as with PFOB improve pulmonary gas exchange in a piglet model of meconium aspiration.
Epidermal Sensory Organs of Moles, Shrew Moles, and Desmans: A Study of the Family Talpidae with Comments on the Function and Evolution of Eimer’s Organ
Authors: Catania Kenneth C.
Published: April 2003

The epidermal sensory organs of members of the family Talpidae (moles, shrew-moles, and desmans) were investigated and compared to determine the range of sensory specializations and better understand how they evolved. Small domed mechanosensory organs called ‘Eimer’s organs’ were present on the rhinarium of nearly all species of talpids, but not among the sister group of shrews (Soricidae) or other insectivore families. This suggests that the common ancestor to the talpids possessed Eimer’s organs. Two species of moles from the driest habitats did not exhibit Eimer’s organs – suggesting that their sensory organs degenerated in response to harsh, abrasive soil conditions. The semi-aquatic desmans uniquely possessed tiny sensory hairs interspersed with their Eimer’s organs; these may act to sense water currents. Some species exhibited a subdivided, star-like, rhinarium – resembling an early embryonic stage of the star-nosed mole and providing clues to the evolution of the star. A single genera (Uropsilus) that branched off early in the evolution of the talpids had Eimer’s organ-like structures but lacked some typical components. These findings fill a major gap in our knowledge of talpid sensory biology and suggest (1) how Eimer’s organs evolved, (2) how the unusual appendages of the star-nosed mole evolved, (3) that the evolution of Eimer’s organ is convergent with the mechanosensory push-rod of monotremes. The results also demonstrate the features that distinguish Eimer’s organ from similar configurations of sensory receptors in other mammalian skin surfaces. Finally, a mechanism for Eimer’s organ function in detecting object and prey specific surface features is proposed.
Mammal-Like Striatal Functions in Anolis
Authors: Clark Edward C. , Baxter Jr. Lewis R.
Published: April 2003

Serotonin (5-HT) 5-HT2A and 5-HT2C receptors are thought to play important roles in the mammalian striatum. As basal ganglia functions in general are thought highly conserved among amniotes, we decided to use in situ autoradiographic methods to determine the occurrence and distribution of pharmacologically mammal-like 5-HT2A and 5-HT2C receptors in the lizard, Anolis carolinensis, with particular attention to the striatum. We also determined the distributions of 5-HT1A, 5-HT1B/D, 5 HT3, and 5-HTuptake receptors for comparison. All 5-HT receptors examined showed pharmacological binding specificity, and forebrain binding density distributions that resembled those reported for mammals. Anolis 5 HT2A/C and 5-HT1A site distributions were similar in both in vivo and ex vivo binding experiments. 5-HT2A & C receptors occur in both high and low affinity states, the former having preferential affinity for 125I-(±)-2,5-dimethoxy-4-iodo-amphetamine hydrochloride (125I-DOI). In mammals 125I-DOI binding shows a patchy density distribution in the striatum, being more dense in striosomes than in surrounding matrix. There was no evidence of any such patchy density of 125I-DOI binding in the anole striatum, however. As a further indication that anoles do not possess a striosome and matrix striatal organization, neither 3H-naloxone binding nor histochemical staining for acetylcholinesterase activity (AChE) were patchy. AChE did show a band-like striatal distribution, however, similar to that seen in birds.