bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Skin Irritation Induced by Potassium Hydroxide and Trichloroacetic Acid on in vitro Percutaneous Penetration of Estradiol
Authors: Thelmo Marylou C. , Tanojo Hanafi , Zhang Leanne L. , Maibach Howard I.
Published: April 2003

Background: In vivo manifestations of irritant dermatitis to two known irritants, potassium hydroxide (KOH) and trichloroacetic acid (TCA), are studied in vitro to define the mechanism by which these processes might alter flux. Objective: To study the change in the in vitro percutaneous penetration of estradiol on excised skin pretreated with KOH or TCA. Methods: Pretreatment of fresh human skin with various concentrations of KOH for 2 h or of TCA for 24 h. Penetration of [14C]estradiol through the pretreated skin was monitored using in vitro diffusion cells. Untreated skin was used as control. Results: There was a significant decrease in skin permeability of estradiol on KOH pretreated skins compared to control. Comparisons between 0.05, 0.1 and 0.2% KOH were significant (p < 0.05). Skin permeability of estradiol decreased significantly after 7.5% TCA pretreatment compared to control, 20 and 30% TCA (p < 0.05). Conclusion: KOH and TCA damage the skin barrier property, thus blocking the permeation of lipophilic compounds. The damage is dose dependent. However, there may be more than one mechanism involved.
Dementia as a Predictor of Functional Disability: A Four-Year Follow-Up Study
Authors: Sauvaget C. , Yamada M. , Fujiwara S. , Sasaki H. , Mimori Y.
Published: April 2003

Background: Prospective studies have shown that cognitive impairment is a strong and consistent risk factor of physical disability. However, cognitive impairment has been based on the result of a single screening tool. Objective: To investigate the role of cognition in the subsequent incidence and decline of functional disability in basic activities of daily living (ADL) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADL) after a full assessment of dementia. Methods: A group of 1,358 Japanese atomic bomb survivors aged 61 years or older who lived in the community or in institutions in Hiroshima City were followed for 4 years. During the baseline survey (1993–1995), subjects were administered a screening test for cognitive impairment. Those suspected of dementia underwent a series of cognitive tests (Hasegawa’s dementia scale, Clinical Dementia Rating) and a neurological examination. The diagnosis of dementia was made according to DSM-III-R criteria. Study subjects were questioned about their reported ADL and their IADL. During the follow-up period, deaths were recorded and a follow-up survey (1997–1999) used to assess ADL and IADL performance. Results: Dementia, even after adjustment for age, sex and history of stroke, was a strong predictor of functional disability, as indicated by ADL (odds ratio, OR = 14.0; confidence interval, CI = 5.4–36.3), IADL (OR = 10.1, CI = 2.2–46.4), and also by assessment of decline in ADL (OR = 9.8, CI = 4.2–22.8) or IADL status (OR = 3.9, CI = 1.8–8.3). Conclusion: Dementia is an important determinant of functional status. Deterioration in ADL is more significant than deterioration in IADL, suggesting that factors other than cognition, such as motivation or perceptual, sensory and motor abilities, may be important in IADL performance. This study confirms previous findings on risk factors that affect functional ability and extends our knowledge by examining several criteria of function that are important in the daily lives of elderly people.
Ischaemic Hepatitis in the Elderly
Authors: Rashed Khalid A. , McNabb W. Robin , Lewis Roger R.
Published: April 2003

Background: Ischaemic hepatitis is centrilobular necrosis which is usually associated with an acute cardiovascular event and in a general hospital setting has been considered to be a rare condition. It is though thought to be frequently unrecognized, which is important as it has implications for both investigations and drug therapy. Previous reports have not focused on the elderly. Objectives: (1) To determine the incidence of ischaemic hepatitis in elderly patients admitted to a Department of Geriatric Medicine and (2) to assess both the clinical and biochemical features of the condition. Methods: 1,905 elderly patients (1,270 F, 635 M) admitted consecutively to our department over a 2-year period were assessed prospectively. All were aged ≧65 years (mean 78, range 65–98). Ischaemic hepatitis was diagnosed by a rapid development of abnormal liver function tests of hepatocellular type in acutely ill patients in whom a fall in blood pressure occurred and other causes of liver dysfunction were excluded. The admission, lowest and subsequent blood pressures were recorded. Daily renal and liver function tests, including prothrombin times, were measured during the acute illness. Results: Nineteen patients (1%) developed ischaemic hepatitis. The clinical picture was dominated by the causal condition, the commonest being left ventricular failure (12 patients). The mean fall in systolic, diastolic and mean blood pressures were 61, 44 and 48 mm Hg, respectively. Within 3 days the alanine aminotransferase increased to more than 5 times normal and there were marked elevations of the lactic dehydrogenase. In those who survived, the liver enzymes returned to normal within 7–22 days (mean 13). The prothrombin time was prolonged to >20 s in 6 patients (32%). Six patients died, 5 from left ventricular failure; the mean creatinine in 5 of those who died was 244 µmol/l (range 174–355) and in each the urea was >25 µmol/l. Conclusion: Ischaemic hepatitis is an uncommon but not rare condition in elderly patients admitted acutely to a Department of Geriatric Medicine. There was a dramatic rise in liver enzymes which in survivors returned to normal within 3 weeks. Clinical features were dominated by the causal condition and a third of the patients died.
Multiple Metabolic Abnormalities in a Patient with the Syndrome of Inappropriate Antidiuresis
Authors: Rizos Evangelos , Liamis George , Elisaf Moses
Published: April 2003

The syndrome of inappropriate ADH secretion (SIADH) is a common cause of hyponatremia. However, other metabolic abnormalities have infrequently been described in patients with the syndrome of inappropriate antidiuresis. Here, we describe a female patient with hyponatremia due to SIADH who presented with a cluster of metabolic abnormalities and specifically hypouricemia associated with uricosuria, hypokalemia caused by renal potassium wasting, hypomagnesemia with inappropriate magnesiuria, hypophosphatemia with renal phosphate wasting and inappropriate calciuria. These abnormalities could be partly due to the extracellular volume expansion and were corrected with the water restriction-induced increase in serum sodium levels.
Interferon Alpha Induction of Stat1 and Stat2 and Their Prognostic Significance in Carcinoid Tumors
Authors: Zhou Yinghua , Wang Shu , Gobl Anders , Oberg Kjell
Published: April 2003

IFN-α has been shown to elicit antitumor activity in carcinoid tumors. In the present study the effects of IFN-α on the protein expression involved in the IFN-α signaling, which were recognized as signal transducer and activators of transcription (Stats), were investigated. Archive specimens from 45 carcinoid patients, 33 before IFN-α and 45 during treatment, were studied. The tissues were immunostained for protein expression by using monoclonal anti-Stat1 and anti-Stat2 antibodies. Results showed that Stat1 and Stat2 immunostaining were significantly increased during IFN-α treatment. Stats scores were significantly increased only in patients with objective response as well as those with stable disease but not in those with progressive disease. The induction of Stats correlated with the survival rates of the patients. In addition, both Stat scores significantly correlated with the p68 protein expression. In a carcinoid tumor cell line, Bon1, IFN-α dose-dependently increased the Stat expression. Analysis of cell fractions showed that IFN-α increased Stat protein both in cytoplasm and nucleoplasm of the cells. Furthermore, IFN-α enhanced tyrosine phosphorylation of Stat1 and Stat2. Thus, the antitumor effect, in vivo and in vitro, in IFN-α-treated carcinoid tumors seems to be mediated via upregulation of Stat proteins and enhancement of phosphorylation of these proteins.
Loss of ErbB2 Expression in Pulmonary Metastatic Lesions in Osteosarcoma
Authors: Akatsuka Tomohiro , Wada Takuro , Kokai Yasuo , Sawada Norimasa , Yamawaki Shinya , Ishii Seiichi
Published: April 2003

Objectives: The c-erbB2 protooncogene is located on human chromosome 17 and encodes a 185-kilodalton transmembrane glycoprotein (ErbB2). Elevated ErbB2 expression or gene amplification has been shown to be associated with a poor prognosis in many cancers. Recently, it has been demonstrated that overexpression of the ErbB2 protein in osteosarcoma is associated with the presence of pulmonary metastasis and decreased survival. To further investigate the role of ErbB2 overexpression in pulmonary metastasis of osteosarcoma, its expression in the primary and metastatic lesions of the same osteosarcoma patients was compared. Methods: We compared the expression levels of ErbB2 receptor protein between the biopsy samples and pulmonary metastatic lesions in each of 19 patients with osteosarcoma who had not presented with metastasis at diagnosis. All archival materials from patients were retrieved and stained with monoclonal antibody CB11 to detect ErbB2 protein. Results: The rate of overexpression was significantly lower in the pulmonary metastatic tumors than in the biopsy samples (11 versus 42%; p = 0.03). Among 8 patients who had shown increased levels of ErbB2 in the biopsy samples, 7 exhibited complete absence of ErbB2 in the pulmonary metastatic lesions. Overall loss of ErbB2 expression was noted in 14 of 19 patients as the initial tumor became metastatic. Conclusions: It is suggested that overexpression of ErbB2 decreases within individual osteosarcomas as they become metastatic. Overexpression of ErbB2 may not play an important role in the development of pulmonary metastases of osteosarcoma. Further data are needed before ErbB2 can be used in making clinical decisions for osteosarcoma patients.
Effect of a Lactose-Containing Sweetener on Root Dentine Demineralization in situ
Authors: Aires C.P. , Tabchoury C.P.M. , Del Bel Cury A.A. , Cury J.A.
Published: April 2003

Since lactose has been used as an excipient in powdered sweeteners, we evaluated its effect on dentine demineralization, in an in situ crossover study. Twelve adult volunteers wore palatal appliances containing 4 blocks of bovine root dentine, which were submitted 4 times a day to: distilled water (negative control), aqueous solution of powdered sweetener (Zero Cal®; experimental group), 1.5% lactose solution (active group), 1.5% sucrose solution (positive control). After 15 days, microhardness was determined on dentine surface (SMH) and on the sectioned blocks (CSMH). All groups presented statistical differences in SMH before and after the treatments; water increased, while sweetener, lactose and sucrose decreased SMH. By CSMH, the only significant difference was observed after sucrose treatment. The data suggest that sweeteners containing lactose as a bulking agent may be cariogenic for root dentine.
Caries Prevalence among 6- to 16-Year-Old Students in Jamaica 12 Years after the Introduction of Salt Fluoridation
Authors: Meyer-Lueckel H. , Satzinger T. , Kielbassa A.M.
Published: April 2003

The aim of this descriptive cross-sectional study was to evaluate the caries prevalence among 6- to 16-year-old students in a rural community in Jamaica, where salt fluoridation was introduced in 1987. Data were obtained from dental examinations of 1,558 students in 1999. The mean (SD) dmfs/DMFS values were 7.9 (10.7) for the 6-year-old children, 4.1 (4.9) for the 12-year-old students and 8.2 (8.1) for the 15-year-olds; mean (SD) dmft/DMFT scores were 3.2 (3.5), 2.2 (2.1) and 3.8. (3.3), respectively. An Unmet Restorative Index of 88–99.9% was observed. Opacities due to fluorosis were recorded for 48% of the children examined. The results indicate a reduced caries prevalence for all age groups since salt fluoridation began. However, since various forms of fluoride might have contributed to the reduction, conclusions concerning salt fluoridation as the main factor must be drawn with caution. The effectiveness of salt fluoridation in Jamaica should be re-examined more closely.
cDNA cloning, expression studies and chromosome mapping of human type I serine/threonine kinase receptor ALK7 (ACVR1C)
Authors: Bondestam J. , Huotari M.-A. , Morén A. , Ustinov J. , Kaivo-oja N. , Kallio J. , Horelli-Kuitunen N. , Aaltonen J. , Fujii M. , Moustakas A. , ten Dijke P. , Otonkoski T. , Ritvos O.
Published: April 2003

Transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) superfamily related growth factors signal by binding to transmembrane type I and type II receptor serine/threonine kinases (RSTK), which phosphorylate intracellular Smad transcription factors in response to ligand binding. Here we describe the cloning of the human type I RSTK activin receptor-like kinase 7 (ALK7), an orthologue of the previously identified rat ALK7. Nodal, a TGF-β member expressed during embryonic development and implicated in developmental events like mesoderm formation and left-right axis specification, was recently shown to signal through ALK7. We found ALK7 mRNA to be most abundantly expressed in human brain, pancreas and colon. A cDNA encoding the open reading frame of ALK7 was obtained from a human brain cDNA library. Furthermore, a P1 artificial chromosome (PAC) clone containing the human ALK7 gene was isolated and fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) on metaphase chromosomes identified the gene locus as chromosome 2q24.1→q3. To test the functionality of the ALK7 signaling, we generated recombinant adenoviruses containing a constitutively active form of ALK7 (Ad-caALK7), which is capable of activating downstream targets in a ligand independent manner. Infection with Ad-caALK7 of MIN6 insulinoma cells, in which ALK7 has previously been shown to be endogenously expressed, led to a marked increase in the phosphorylation of Smad2, a signaling molecule also used by TGF-βs and activins.
The pattern of phylogenomic evolution of the Canidae
Authors: Nash W.G. , Menninger J.C. , Wienberg J. , Padilla-Nash H.M. , O’Brien S.J.
Published: April 2003

Canidae species fall into two categories with respect to their chromosome composition: those with high numbered largely acrocentric karyotypes and others with a low numbered principally metacentric karyotype. Those species with low numbered metacentric karyotypes are derived from multiple independent fusions of chromosome segments found as acrocentric chromosomes in the high numbered species. Extensive chromosome homology is apparent among acrocentric chromosome arms within Canidae species; however, little chromosome arm homology exists between Canidae species and those from other Carnivore families. Here we use Zoo-FISH (fluorescent in situ hybridization, also called chromosomal painting) probes from flow-sorted chromosomes of the Japanese raccoon dog (Nyctereutes procyonoides) to examine two phylogenetically divergent canids, the arctic fox (Alopex lagopus) and the crab-eating fox (Cerdocyon thous). The results affirm intra-canid chromosome homologies, also implicated by G-banding. In addition, painting probes from domestic cat (Felis catus), representative of the ancestral carnivore karyotype (ACK), and giant panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca) were used to define primitive homologous segments apparent between canids and other carnivore families. Canid chromosomes seem unique among carnivores in that many canid chromosome arms are mosaics of two to four homology segments of the ACK chromosome arms. The mosaic pattern apparently preceded the divergence of modern canid species since conserved homology segments among different canid species are common, even though those segments are rearranged relative to the ancestral carnivore genome arrangement. The results indicate an ancestral episode of extensive centric fission leading to an ancestral canid genome organization that was subsequently reorganized by multiple chromosome fusion events in some but not all Canidae lineages.
Use of MDMA and Other Illicit Drugs by Young Adult Males in Northern Spain
Authors: Bobes J. , Sáiz P.A. , González M.P. , Bascarán M.T. , Bousoño M. , Ricaurte G.A. , McCann U.D.
Published: April 2003

Aim: To measure the prevalence of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) and other drug use in young males entering compulsory military service in Asturias (northern Spain) and to define trends in MDMA use in this group during the period from 1995 to 1999. We also sought to determine whether MDMA users have distinct personality features or higher levels of sensation seeking. Methods: 3,634 conscripts [mean age (SD) = 20.19 years (2.52)] who entered military service during the period between 1995 and 1999 were evaluated using the World Health Organization (WHO) questionnaire for drug consumption, the Eysenck Personality Questionnaire-A (EPQ-A), and the Zuckerman Sensation Seeking Scale. Results and Conclusions: The prevalence of lifetime, previous year and previous month MDMA use among military recruits between 1995 and 1999 was 10.9, 7.8 and 4.5%, ranking fifth among illicit drugs ever used. Once individuals used MDMA for the first time, they were likely to use it again, with 71% of individuals who had ever used MDMA reporting that they had used it during the past year (ranking second only to hallucinogens), and 41% reporting having used it in the last month. Compared to recruits who had never used MDMA (but who may have used other illicit drugs), MDMA users had a more extensive drug abuse history. Recruits who had used MDMA during the year prior to study had significantly higher scores on the Neuroticism and Psychoticism Subscales of the EPQ-A, and reported higher levels of sensation seeking.
Results of Autografting of Marginal Conjunctiva in Pterygium Excision
Authors: Özer Ahmet , Yildirim Nilgün , Erol Nazmiye , Yurdakul Sumru
Published: April 2003

Purpose: To investigate and compare the efficiency of autografting of marginal conjunctiva (autograft of marginal conjunctiva technique, AMCT) and the bare sclera technique (BST) in pterygium excision. Materials and Methods: In this study, 51 eyes of 51 patients who underwent pterygium surgery using the AMCT (group 1) were compared to 45 eyes of 45 patients who underwent pterygium excision using the BST (group 2), with regard to epithelialisation, recurrence and complication of the procedures. Patients were followed up for 15.37 ± 12.01 months in group 1 and for 18.57 ± 10.42 months in group 2. Results: Postoperative epithelialisation was completed in 4.34 ± 1.27 days in group 1 and in 5.61 ± 1.71 days in group 2. Epithelialisation was completed earlier in group 1 than group 2 (p < 0.05). Recurrences were detected in 7 eyes (13.73%) of group 1 and in 17 eyes (37.78%) of group 2. The difference between the groups was statistically significant (p < 0.01). No postoperative complications were seen in either of the groups. Conclusions: The AMCT was found to be a more efficient procedure than the BST. Autografting of marginal conjunctiva may be a useful alternative treatment in pterygium surgery due to higher success and lower recurrence rates.
Conservation of avian Z chromosomes as revealed by comparative mapping of the Z-linked aldolase B gene
Authors: Nanda I. , Schmid M.
Published: April 2003

A chicken Z-linked BAC probe containing the aldolase B gene was used for fluorescence in-situ hybridization (FISH) mapping in four different avian species. The biotinylated BAC clone showed distinct unique hybridization sites on the structurally different Z chromosomes. This result, together with previous data, lends credence to the notion that, despite undergoing structural rearrangements, the gene content of the avian Z chromosome remained conserved during evolution. Our study also demonstrates the feasibility of using large genomic clones for comparative mapping of Z-linked genes in birds.
Chromosomal characterization of Arvicanthis species (Rodentia, Murinae) from western and central Africa: implications for taxonomy
Authors: Volobouev V.T. , Ducroz J.-F. , Aniskin V.M. , Britton-Davidian J. , Castiglia R. , Dobigny G. , Granjon L. , Lombard M. , Corti M. , Sicard B. , Capanna E.
Published: April 2003

A chromosome study of unstriped grass rats of the genus Arvicanthis (Rodentia, Murinae) in western and central Africa is presented. The observations extend the data available to 242 specimens from 59 localities. All individuals karyotyped belong to four karyotypic forms, or cytotypes, earlier described as ANI-1, ANI-2, ANI-3, and ANI-4 and are presumed to correspond to four distinct species. In order to provide diagnostic characters for these western and one central African Arvicanthis species, we standardized the chromosomal data available and developed a G- and C-banded chromosome nomenclature that allows easy species identification. Each form is characterized by a distinct geographical distribution, roughly following the biogeographical domains of western Africa, although their precise limits remain to be assessed. The sole area of sympatry detected is the region of the inner delta of the Niger River, where both ANI-1 and ANI-3 can be found. It is proposed that the three western African species ANI-1, ANI-3, and ANI-4 be renamed as A. niloticus, A. ansorgei, and A. rufinus, respectively.
Meiotic chromosome pairing in fetal oocytes of trisomy 21 human females
Authors: Barlow A.L. , Tease C. , Hultén M.A.
Published: April 2003

The influence of trisomy on meiotic chromosome association and synapsis was studied in oocytes of two trisomy 21 fetuses. The patterns of association of the three chromosomes 21 were determined by analysis of late zygotene to early diplotene fetal oocytes after immunofluorescent staining of synaptonemal complexes. The identity of chromosome 21 was confirmed using FISH with either a whole chromosome 21 paint or an α-satellite DNA repeat probe. In both fetuses, a wide variety of configurations was present at pachytene. The most common configurations were a trivalent (35.5% and 51.6% of analyzable cells) and a bivalent plus univalent (62.9% and 45.2%). These different frequencies between the fetuses were not significant. Trivalents showed either triple synapsis or double synapsis with pairing-partner switches. The extent of triple synapsis varied from a short segment, either terminal or interstitial, to the whole chromosome length. Through use of immunofluorescent staining of the centromeres, we identified novel types of abnormal chromosome behavior in trisomy 21 fetal oocytes. Thus, we found that 6/41 trivalents had one of the chromosomes associated “out of register,” i.e., in a nonhomologous fashion, with its two homologs. Likewise, we found three cells with bivalent plus univalent configurations, in which the univalent showed self-synapsis. The presence of three copies of chromosome 21 therefore results not only in the formation of complex and highly variable synaptic associations but also causes a significant increase in the occurrence of nonhomologous synapsis in human fetal oocytes.
Pulmonary Iron Overload in Thalassemia major Presenting as Small Airway Disease
Authors: Ooi G.C. , Khong P.L. , Lam W.K. , Trendell-Smith N.J. , Tsang K.W.T.
Published: April 2003

Lung function abnormalities that are associated with thalassemia major are variable with etiology that is yet undetermined. Some studies have suggested that pulmonary iron deposition is a probable cause for these lung defects although there has been no antemortem histopathological and radiological evidence for this. We report a case of thalassemia major with biopsy-proven pulmonary iron overload, in which thoracic high-resolution computed tomography revealed a morphological-functional correlation consistent with small airway disease.
Effect of Elevated Homocysteine Levels on Clinical Restenosis following Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Hodish Israel , Matetzky Shlomi , Sela Ben-Ami , Guetta Victor , Goldenberg Ilan , Doolman Ram , Freimark Dov , Hod Hanoch
Published: April 2003

Since hyperhomocysteinemia confers a prothrombotic effect and promotes proliferation of smooth muscle cells in response to vascular injury, it might be implicated in the pathogenesis of restenosis after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Our study comprised 55 patients who underwent successful PCI in the acute myocardial infarction (AMI) course. Homocysteine levels were determined within 24 h of admission. During a 1-year follow-up, 16 patients (31%) underwent repeated coronary angiography for recurrent angina or re-infarction, which demonstrated re-narrowing of ≧50% at the qualifying PCI site (clinical restenosis). Irrespective of stent deployment, clinical restenosis was not associated with higher homocysteine levels (12 ± 7 vs. 14 ± 11µmol/l, p = 0.77). There was no correlation between homocysteine levels and time to restenosis (r2 = 0.06, p = 0.35). In conclusion, elevated homocysteine levels do not predict a higher incidence of restenosis after PCI.
A ‘Bad Responder’ to Statins
Authors: Devroey D. , Betz W. , Coigniez P. , Lauwers R. , Velkeniers B.
Published: April 2003

We report the case of a man whose high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and the ratios of total cholesterol to HDL-C and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol to HDL-C worsened dramatically during pravastatin treatment. After 3 years, pravastatin was replaced by fenofibrate. The result was spectacular. The HDL-C increased to at least twice the level obtained during pravastatin.
Length Change of Human Gastrocnemius Aponeurosis and Tendon during Passive Joint Motion
Authors: Muraoka Tetsuro , Muramatsu Tadashi , Takeshita Daisuke , Kawakami Yasuo , Fukunaga Tetsuo
Published: April 2003

The extent of elongation and slackness of aponeurosis and tendon, and muscle fiber length of human medial gastrocnemius muscle are determined in vivo using ultrasonography. The ankle joint is passively moved at 5°/s within the joint range of –36 to 7° (0° = neutral anatomic position; positive values for dorsiflexion) by a dynamometer while the length change of the aponeurosis and tendon is determined using ultrasonography (n = 8 men). Strain is calculated as the length change relative to the reference length of aponeurosis and tendon when the passive joint moment is 0. Elongation (positive strain values) of aponeurosis and tendon at 7° are 2.1 ± 1.1 and 2.4 ± 1.0%, respectively. The extent of slackness (negative strain values) of aponeurosis and tendon at –36° are –1.8 ± 1.1 and –3.5 ± 1.6%, respectively, and there is a significant difference between them (p < 0.05). This may be related to the existence of muscle fibers that attach to the aponeurosis over its whole length and do not allow it to fold. The results indicate that the length change of aponeurosis and tendon of medial gastrocnemius muscle occurs over the range of ankle joint positions even during passive joint motions.
Chlorpheniramine Is No More Effective than Placebo in Relieving the Symptoms of Childhood Atopic Dermatitis with a Nocturnal Itching and Scratching Component
Authors: Munday J. , Bloomfield R. , Goldman M. , Robey H. , Kitowska G.J. , Gwiezdziski Z. , Wankiewicz A. , Marks R. , Protas-Drozd F. , Mikaszewska M.
Published: April 2003

Background: Childhood atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common disorder affecting 15% of children aged over 18 months. AD is associated with intense nocturnal itching. The central sedative effect of antihistamines is thought to be useful in interrupting the itching cycle and may prevent exacerbations. Objective: A multi-centred, double-blind, placebo-controlled study was carried out in 155 children to evaluate chlorpheniramine in alleviating symptoms of AD. Methods: Assessments were carried out over a 4-week study period consisting of 3 visits to out-patient clinics. During the visits the severity of AD and itching was rated using a series of visual analogue scale (VAS) and 5-point rating scales. Results: The use of chlorpheniramine resulted in no greater alleviation of AD symptoms than placebo. Conclusions: The findings contradict conventional wisdom that the sedative effect of earlier-generation antihistamines alleviates symptoms of AD. The study also indicates that the use of antihistamines in AD does not affect the amounts of topical treatment used over the short term.
T Cells and Mast Cells as a Major Source of Interleukin-13 in Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Obara Wataru , Kawa Yoko , Ra Chisei , Nishioka Kusuki , Soma Yoshinao , Mizoguchi Masako
Published: April 2003

Background: Interleukin (IL)-13 is a T-cell-derived cytokine that shares several functions with IL-4, including the induction of immunoglobulin E synthesis. Recent studies suggest that cytokines expressed locally in the skin play several critical roles in atopic dermatitis (AD), however, little is known about the role of IL-13 in AD lesions. Objectives: The present study was designed to characterize the involvement of IL-13 in AD in the skin and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). Methods: Using lesional and nonlesional skin from adult AD patients and normal skin from healthy volunteers, we performed RT-PCR, in situ RT and immunostaining to determine the IL-13 expression at the mRNA and protein levels. The actual numbers of IL-13 expressing cells in biopsy specimens were counted under the microscope. IL-13 mRNA expression in PBMC from AD patients and healthy volunteers was examined by RT-PCR analysis. Results: IL-13 mRNA expression was detected by RT-PCR in lesional and nonlesional skin and in PBMC from AD patients, but not in normal skin or PBMC from healthy volunteers. In AD lesional skin, numerous IL-13 mRNA-positive cells were demonstrated by in situ RT, and similar numbers of IL-13-positive cells were also detected immunohistochemically. Smaller numbers of IL-13-positive cells were observed in AD nonlesional skin and in normal skin. The differences in the numbers of IL-13-expressing cells between lesional and nonlesional skin were statistically significant. Double immunostaining revealed that IL-13 was produced in approximately 40% of T cells and 20% of mast cells in AD lesional skin, suggesting that T cells and mast cells are major sources of IL-13 in AD lesions. Conclusion: IL-13 may play a local as well as a systemic role in the development of AD lesions.
Prevalence of Fragrance Allergy
Authors: Scheinman Pamela L.
Published: April 2003

With the exception of the UK, where fragrance allergy remained fairly constant from the early 1980s until the mid-late 1990s, other centers worldwide (Denmark, Singapore, Slovenia and the USA) reported an increase in fragrance allergy during this period. The ubiquitous nature of fragrance in modern society, coupled with new and growing markets of fragrance products for children and men, likely contribute to this increase. Strict adherence to voluntary guidelines on concentration limits of known fragrance sensitizers in consumer products is necessary. Also, special attention by manufacturers to safety assessments for fragranced products to be used on ‘high-risk’ areas such as traumatized/dermatitic skin, occluded sites and areas of high absorption is needed.
Harn- und Stuhlinkontinenz: Ein Tabu-Thema
Authors: Winter R. , Haller U. , Hepp H.
Published: April 2003

Die Prävalenz des ungewollten Harnverlustes liegt bei 6% der Gesamtbevölkerung. Frauen in der Menopause leiden in mehr als 40% an Harninkontinenz. Neue Schlingenverfahren führen in einem hohen Prozentsatz zu einer Besserung oder Heilung des Leidens. Senkungszustände des Genitales und Harninkontinenz sind zwei getrennte Krankheitsbilder, die häufig gemeinsam vorliegen. Die bei Senkungszuständen oft durchgeführte Hysterektomie kann beim Vorliegen einer lavierten Harninkontinenz das Leiden verschlechtern. Die Prävalenz der Stuhlinkontinenz liegt je nach Definition beim Menschen zwischen 1 und 5%. Ein häufiger ätiologischer Faktor bei der Frau ist die geburtstraumatische Schädigung des Beckenbodens. Für Stuhl- und Harninkontinenz zusammen kann eine Prävalenz von 5–10% in der Gesamtbevölkerung angenommen werden. Die aktive Befragung der Patientinnen nach Symptomen der Inkontinenz kann zur Enttabuisierung des Problems beitragen und den Betroffenen zu einer Verbesserung der Lebensqualität verhelfen.
In vitro and in vivo Antibacterial Activity and Pharmacokinetics of SC-002 and Its Derivative, SC-004: New Oral Cephalosporins
Authors: Nagate T. , Akashi T. , Numata K. , Sugita K. , Kaneda Y. , Matsuyama M. , Saito H. , Nozawa M. , Onodera A. , Hanada K. , Kobori T. , Fujita M. , Yamamoto R. , Hiyama T. , Kondo K.
Published: April 2003

SC-002 is a novel oral cephalosporin possessing a unique thiadiazolylethenyl moiety at the 3 position. In the present study, it was the most active against gram-positive bacteria among oral cephalosporins such as cefdinir (CFDN), cefpodoxime, cefditoren and cefaclor (CCL). It was equal to or 16 times more active than CFDN against standard and clinical strains. In particular, against clinical isolates of Morganella morganii and Haemophilus influenzae, SC-002 was 8–64 times more active than CFDN. The antibacterial activity of SC-002 against some β-lactam-resistant strains was superior to that of CFDN. The in vivo antibacterial activity of SC-004, a pivaloyloxymethyl ester of SC-002, was 1.2–8 times more protective against systemic infections due to Streptococcus pneumoniae, Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae than that of CFDN. The therapeutic effects of SC-004 on experimental respiratory tract infections caused by S. pneumoniae or H. influenzae were superior to those of CFDN and CCL. SC-004 showed higher and longer-lasting blood levels and higher urinary excretion in pharmacokinetics in mice.
Effects of Angiotensins II and IV on Blood Pressure, Renal Function, and PAI-1 Expression in the Heart and Kidney of the Rat
Authors: Abrahamsen Christian T. , Pullen Mark A. , Schnackenberg Christine G. , Grygielko Eugene T. , Edwards Richard M. , Laping Nicholas J. , Brooks David P.
Published: April 2003

The role of angiotensin II (AII) and angiotensin IV (AIV) as inducers of PAI-1 expression during hypertension was studied in vivo. A 2-week infusion of AII (300 ng/kg/min) via an osmotic pump increased systolic blood pressure (171 ± 2 vs. 138 ± 6 mm Hg), urinary protein excretion (32 ± 6 vs. 14 ± 2 mg/day), and renal (2.2 ± 0.5 vs. 1.0 ± 0.1) and cardiac (1.8 ± 0.3 vs. 1.0 ± 0.1) gene expression of plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 (PAI-1). AIV infusion did not affect any of the above with the exception of PAI-1 gene expression which was increased in the left ventricles (1.7 ± 0.3 vs. 1.0 ± 0.1). AII-infused rats displayed a decreased creatinine clearance (538 ± 75 vs. 898 ± 96 ml/min) and hypertrophic left ventricles (0.275 ± 0.006 vs. 0.220 ± 0.011 g/100 g). Our results demonstrate that AII but not AIV infusion is associated with increased renal PAI-1 gene expression.
Effect of FK506 on Neurotransmitter Content and Expression of GAP-43 in Neurotoxin-Lesioned Peripheral Sensory and Sympathetic Neurons
Authors: Zuber Martina , Donnerer Josef
Published: April 2003

It has previously been shown that the capsaicin-lesioned peptidergic sensory neurons and the 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA)-lesioned sympathetic noradrenergic neurons represent a useful model to study neurotrophin-induced nerve regeneration in the adult rat. The present study was aimed at investigating if the immunosuppressant drug FK506 (tacrolimus) has neuroregeneratory properties in these capsaicin- or 6-OHDA-lesioned peripheral nerves. FK506 was injected in a dose of 0.5 mg/kg/day for 10 days or in a dose of 1.5 mg/kg/day for 7 days. One day after the last FK506 injection neurotransmitter content was investigated in selected tissues. The content of the sensory neuron marker peptide calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) was reduced after the capsaicin treatment in the hind paw skin by 35–40% and in the dorsal lumbar spinal cord by 48%. The treatment with FK506 did not induce a recovery of the CGRP content. Following the 6-OHDA treatment the noradrenaline content was reduced by 50–62% in the hind paw skin and by 73% in the heart atrium. FK506 alone did not increase the noradrenaline levels, whereas an additional local intraplantar treatment with nerve growth factor recovered noradrenaline levels almost completely. The expression of a marker protein for growth processes in cells of sympathetic or sensory ganglia, growth-associated protein-43, was significantly increased by the FK506 treatment. This study demonstrated that despite a stimulatory effect of FK506 on the expression of a growth-associated protein a recovery of the transmitter content is not evident in peripheral small diameter sensory or postganglionic sympathetic neurons of the adult rat.
Induction of Lipoprotein Lipase Gene Expression in 3T3-L1 Preadipocytes by Atorvastatin, a Cholesterol- and Triglyceride-Lowering Drug
Authors: Bey Lionel , Maigret Pascal , Laouenan Hervé , Hamilton Marc T.
Published: April 2003

Atorvastatin is a drug of choice in the treatment of coronary heart disease, because this hepatic 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme reductase inhibitor significantly decreases plasma cholesterol and triglyceride levels. However, little is known about the underlying molecular targets of this drug. Lipoprotein lipase (LPL), an enzyme with multiple functions in non-hepatic lipid metabolism, may be a potential candidate and LPL gene expression may increase in response to a treatment with atorvastatin. In order to verify this hypothesis, mouse 3T3-L1 preadipocytes were incubated with 1 and 10 µmol/l atorvastatin for 24 and 48 h and LPL mRNA concentration was measured by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. Our data indicated that atorvastatin increased LPL mRNA concentration by a time- and dose-dependent mechanism. LPL mRNA concentration was significantly increased by 82% with 10 µmol/l atorvastatin after 48 h. LPL mRNA concentration was 28% greater (not significant) than control with 10 µmol/l atorvastatin after 24 h. No increase was obtained with 1 µmol/l atorvastatin after 24 or 48 h. The first 976 nucleotides of rat LPL promoter were transfected in 3T3-L1 preadipocytes. Addition of 10 µmol/l atorvastatin for 48 h resulted in a 44% increase of rat LPL promoter activity. This study demonstrates for the first time that a statin can regulate LPL gene expression transcriptionally in preadipocytes.
Cross-Linked C-Terminal Telopeptide of Type I Collagen in Serum before and after Treatment with Alfacalcidol and Calcium Carbonate in Early and Moderate Chronic Renal Failure
Authors: Przedlacki Jerzy , Trębicka Jadwiga , Bijak Krzysztof , Matuszkiewicz-Rowińska Joanna , Bogdańska-Straszyńska Barbara , Małecka Grażyna , Ostrowski Kazimierz
Published: April 2003

The diagnosis of renal osteodystrophy (RO) in chronic renal failure (CRF) in everyday practice depends on noninvasive methods. Still there is no widely accepted bone resorption marker in RO. The aim of the study was to evaluate the correlation of serum cross-linked C-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen (s-CTx) as the resorption marker with clinical and biochemical data and to evaluate s-CTx level changes after treatment with low dose of alfacalcidol and calcium carbonate. Sixty patients (36 men and 24 women) with creatinine serum level 3.0 ± 1.5 mg% were examined. The result of s-CTx was normal in 27 patients and increased in 33. There was a significant positive correlation of s-CTx and serum creatinine (p < 0.001), alkaline phosphatase activity (p < 0.05) and duration of CRF (p < 0.05) in men and serum creatinine (p < 0.001) and phosphorus (p < 0.05) in postmenopausal women. Patients with increased s-CTx had significantly higher serum creatinine (p < 0.001), phosphorus (p < 0.01), alkaline phosphatase activity (p < 0.001) and longer duration of CRF (p < 0.001) than patients with normal s-CTx. Next, 25 patients were treated for 6 months with alfacalcidol in dose of 0.25 µg every other day and calcium carbonate in dose of 3.0 µg per day and 25 patients with calcium carbonate only. There was a statistically significant decrease of s-CTx in both groups of patients (p < 0.01). We conclude, that in patients with CRF, s-CTx can be taken as the marker of bone resorption changes after treatment of RO but the value of s-CTx as a diagnostic marker in these patients ought to be evaluated in comparison with histomorphometry.
Partial Lipodystrophy in a Patient with Systemic Lupus erythematosus
Authors: Ishiguro Naoko , Kanazawa Hirotatsu , Ishibashi Mutsumi , Kawashima Makoto
Published: April 2003

A 54-year-old woman developed partial lipodystrophy on the left side of her face. She had been suffering from systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) since 1985 when she was 45 years old, and she had been treated with 30 mg/day of oral prednisolone as an initial dose. Partial lipodystrophy appeared on her left lower jaw in 1994 when the SLE was inactive, and the dose of prednisolone was reduced to 5 mg/ 3 days. Gradually, the lipodystrophy spread toward her left cheek and her left forehead without any preceding skin symptoms. Histological examination showed a loss of fat tissue and mild lymphocytic infiltrations mainly around cutaneous appendages and vessels in the dermis and subcutaneous tissue. The dose of prednisolone was increased to 10 mg/day and the lesions stopped spreading. Such partial lipodystrophy is distinct from lipoatrophy of lupus profundus.
Lack of Association between Plasma Homocysteine and Inflammation in Psychogeriatric Patients
Authors: Nilsson Karin , Hultberg Björn , Gustafson Lars
Published: April 2003

Background/Objectives: In previous studies we observed a high incidence of elevated plasma homocysteine (tHcy) concentrations in psychogeriatric patients. Plasma tHcy is increased in folate deficiency. Folates are sensitive to oxidative stress. Oxidative stress, caused by inflammatory processes, could represent an endogenous reason for folate deficiency, even when the dietary intake of the vitamin is within the recommended range. It has been suggested that oxidative stress rather than insufficient folate intake causes hyperhomocysteinemia in different forms of psychogeriatric diseases. In the present study we investigated the association between plasma tHcy and C-reactive protein (CRP), a sensitive marker for inflammation, in psychogeriatric patients. Methods: Plasma tHcy, its main determinants, and CRP were measured in plasma and serum of 132 psychogeriatric patients (53 males and 79 females, mean age 75 ± 12 years). Results: In the psychogeriatric patients, plasma tHcy was elevated and blood folate and serum creatinine were lower than in control subjects, whereas serum CRP concentrations did not differ significantly. We also subdivided the psychogeriatric patients into different diagnosis groups, yet there were no differences in serum CRP concentrations in these groups compared with age-matched control groups. There was a significant correlation between plasma tHcy and serum CRP (rho = 0.19, p < 0.05). A stepwise multiple regression analysis including serum CRP, age, blood folate, serum cobalamin, serum methylmalonic acid and serum creatinine showed that only blood folate (p < 0.001), age (p < 0.001), serum creatinine (p < 0.001), serum cobalamin (p < 0.001), and serum methylmalonic acid (p < 0.001) independently predicted plasma tHcy concentration. Thus CRP concentration was not an independent predictor of plasma tHcy. Conclusion: The present study did not show any association between inflammatory status and plasma tHcy concentration in psychogeriatric patients.
Detrimental Effects of Nicotine and Endotoxin in the Newborn Piglet Brain during Severe Hypoxemia
Authors: Frøen J. Frederik , Amerio Giulia , Stray-Pedersen Babill , Saugstad Ola Didrik
Published: April 2003

Hypoxia-ischemia is a major cause of perinatal brain damage, but evidence shows that brain injury also is associated with intrauterine infections and maternal smoking. The mechanisms are not known, and we therefore explored the effects of experimental inflammation or nicotine on perinatal brain metabolism and injury during severe hypoxemia. Twenty-eight 1-week-old piglets were anesthetized and instrumented with microdialysis probes in the striatum and brainstem. We studied three pretreatment groups: (1) 20 µg/kg i.v. nicotine (n = 9); (2) 1 µg/kg i.v. endotoxin from Escherichia coli (n = 11), or (3) control (n = 8). The piglets were subsequently exposed to 30 min of hypoxemia (6% O2). In order to minimize any ischemic component and increase survival, this was abrupted for 1 min if blood pressure fell to 30 mm Hg. During hypoxemia, both the pretreatment with endotoxin and nicotine induced higher levels of extracellular lactate and peak lactate/pyruvate ratio compared with controls (54.7 ± 9.6 (p < 0.01) and 65.2 ± 13.1 (p < 0.02) vs. 15.9 ± 7.4, respectively), reflecting a deterioration of the metabolic status in these groups. The two pretreated groups reached significantly higher peak levels of extracellular glycerol (30.9 ± 4.1 vs. 77.9 ± 12.7 and 89.4 ± 14.2 µmol/l, respectively, p = 0.01), indicating a higher level of cellular membrane disintegration or leakage. In addition, 3 endotoxin piglets and 4 nicotine piglets died during reoxygenation, while all controls survived (p = 0.13 and p < 0.04, respectively). Mortality was associated with a rise in extracellular glutamate at the end of hypoxemia/start reoxygenation (p = 0.02). These findings contribute in explaining how nicotine and inflammatory response to bacterial toxins could act as cofactors for hypoxic-ischemic neurologic injury in the immature brain.
Ureaplasma urealyticum Induces Apoptosis in Human Lung Epithelial Cells and Macrophages
Authors: Li Ying-Hua , Chen Ming , Brauner Annelie , Zheng Chengyun , Skov Jensen Jørgen , Tullus Kjell
Published: April 2003

Chronic lung disease (CLD) of prematurity remains a significant cause of morbidity among premature infants. It is a multifactorial disorder and characterized by an early increased number of neutrophils and alveolar macrophages, with later architectural epithelial and endothelial cell damage. Recently, apoptosis of type 2 pneumocytes in the lung of preterm neonates with acute and chronic lung disease has been examined and apoptosis of mesenchymal cells was detected in the chronic stage of bronchopulmonary dysplasia. Infection and inflammatory responses in the lungs play important roles. However, the contribution of Ureaplasma urealyticum to the development of CLD is debated. We found that U. urealyticum induced apoptosis in human type II lung epithelial cells (A549 cell line) and macrophages (derived from human monocytic cell line THP-1) by measuring the outer leaflets translocation of phosphatidylserine (flow cytometry analysis and fluorescence microscopy assessment), DNA fragmentation analysis, cell morphology changes such as diminution in cell volume, increased cytoplasmic staining, and nuclear pyknosis (hematoxylin and eosin staining) and viable counting (trypan blue exclusion). Anti-TNF-α monoclonal antibody partially protected the macrophages from undergoing apoptosis after infection with U. urealyticum. Our findings imply that U. urealyticum might be involved in impairing lung structure and host immune response during the development of CLD.
An Unusual Cause of Urinothorax
Authors: Oguzulgen İ. Kıvılcım , Oguzulgen A. İbrahim , Sınık Zafer , Köktürk Oǧuz , Ekim Numan , Karaoglan Üstünol
Published: April 2003

Urinothorax is a rare complication of blunt renal trauma, ureteral instrumentation or ureteral surgery. A leakage from the urinary tract causes urinoma, a retroperitoneal collection of fluid, which can lead to urinothorax. We report a patient with solitary kidney who underwent extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) for nephrolithiasis. Four days after ESWL, she had right-sided pleural effusion which demonstrated as urinothorax. Urinoma occurring after ESWL, as in our case, is a situation that has not been reported before as a cause of urinothorax. Urinothorax should be taken into consideration in patients with pleural effusion who recently underwent ESWL.