bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Somatosensory feedback from the limbs exerts inhibitory influences on central neural drive during whole body endurance exercise
Authors: Amann Markus , Proctor Lester T. , Sebranek Joshua J. , Eldridge Marlowe W. , Pegelow David F. , Dempsey Jerome A.
Published: September 2008

We investigated whether somatosensory feedback from contracting limb muscles exerts an inhibitory influence on the determination of central command during closed-loop cycling exercise in which the subject voluntarily determines his second-by-second central motor drive. Eight trained cyclists performed two 5-km time trials either without (5KCtrl) or with lumbar epidural anesthesia (5KEpi; 24 ml of 0.5% lidocaine, vertebral interspace L3–L4). Percent voluntary quadriceps muscle activation was determined at rest using a superimposed twitch technique. Epidural lidocaine reduced pretime trial maximal voluntary quadriceps strength (553 ± 45 N) by 22 ± 3%. Percent voluntary quadriceps activation was also reduced from 97 ± 1% to 81 ± 3% via epidural lidocaine, and this was unchanged following the 5KEpi, indicating the presence of a sustained level of neural impairment throughout the trial. Power output was reduced by 9 ± 2% throughout the race ( P < 0.05). We found three types of significant effects of epidural lidocaine that supported a substantial role for somatosensory feedback from the exercising limbs as a determinant of central command throughout high-intensity closed-loop cycling exercise: 1) significantly increased relative integrated EMG of the vastus lateralis; 2) similar pedal forces despite the reduced number of fast-twitch muscle fibers available for activation; 3) and increased ventilation out of proportion to a reduced carbon dioxide production and heart rate and increased blood pressure out of proportion to power output and oxygen consumption. These findings demonstrate the inhibitory influence of somatosensory feedback from contracting locomotor muscles on the conscious and/or subconscious determination of the magnitude of central motor drive during high intensity closed-loop endurance exercise.
Long-Term Retention Explained by a Model of Short-Term Learning in the Adaptive Control of Reaching
Authors: Joiner Wilsaan M. , Smith Maurice A.
Published: September 2008

Extensive theoretical, psychophysical, and neurobiological work has focused on the mechanisms by which short-term learning develops into long-term memory. Better understanding of these mechanisms may lead to the ability to improve the efficiency of training procedures. A key phenomenon in the formation of long-term memory is the effect of over learning on retention—discovered by Ebbinghaus in 1885: when the initial training period in a task is prolonged even beyond what is necessary for good immediate recall, long-term retention improves. Although this over learning effect has received considerable attention as a phenomenon in psychology research, the mechanisms governing this process are not well understood, and the ability to predict the benefit conveyed by varying degrees of over learning does not yet exist. Here we studied the relationship between the duration of an initial training period and the amount of retention 24 h later for the adaptation of human reaching arm movements to a novel force environment. We show that in this motor adaptation task, the amount of long-term retention is predicted not by the overall performance level achieved during the training period but rather by the level of a specific component process in a multi-rate model of short-term memory formation. These findings indicate that while multiple learning processes determine the ability to learn a motor adaptation, only one provides a gateway to long-term memory formation. Understanding the dynamics of this key learning process may allow for the rational design of training and rehabilitation paradigms that maximize the long-term benefit of each session.
Imbalance of Neocortical Excitation and Inhibition and Altered UP States Reflect Network Hyperexcitability in the Mouse Model of Fragile X Syndrome
Authors: Gibson Jay R. , Bartley Aundrea F. , Hays Seth A. , Huber Kimberly M.
Published: September 2008

Despite the pronounced neurological deficits associated with mental retardation and autism, it is unknown if altered neocortical circuit function occurs in these prevalent disorders. Here we demonstrate specific alterations in local synaptic connections, membrane excitability, and circuit activity of defined neuron types in sensory neocortex of the mouse model of Fragile X Syndrome—the Fmr1 knockout (KO). Overall, these alterations result in hyperexcitability of neocortical circuits in the Fmr1 KO. Specifically, we observe a substantial deficit in local excitatory drive (∼50%) targeting fast-spiking (FS) inhibitory neurons in layer 4 of somatosensory, barrel cortex. This persists until at least 4 wk of age suggesting it may be permanent. In contrast, monosynaptic GABAergic synaptic transmission was unaffected. Overall, these changes indicate that local feedback inhibition in neocortical layer 4 is severely impaired in the Fmr1 KO mouse. An increase in the intrinsic membrane excitability of excitatory neurons may further contribute to hyperexcitability of cortical networks. In support of this idea, persistent neocortical circuit activity, or UP states, elicited by thalamic stimulation was longer in duration in the Fmr1 KO mouse. In addition, network inhibition during the UP state was less synchronous, including a 14% decrease in synchrony in the gamma frequency range (30–80 Hz). These circuit changes may be involved in sensory stimulus hypersensitivity, epilepsy, and cognitive impairment associated with Fragile X and autism.
Cannabinoid Modulation of Cutaneous Aδ Nociceptors During Inflammation
Authors: Potenzieri Carl , Brink Thaddeus S. , Pacharinsak Cholawat , Simone Donald A.
Published: September 2008

Previous studies have demonstrated that locally administered cannabinoids attenuate allodynia and hyperalgesia through activation of peripheral cannabinoid receptors (CB1and CB2). However, it is currently unknown if cannabinoids alter the response properties of nociceptors. In the present study, correlative behavioral and in vivo electrophysiological studies were conducted to determine if peripheral administration of the cannabinoid receptor agonists arachidonyl-2′-chloroethylamide (ACEA) or (R)-(+)-methanandamide (methAEA) could attenuate mechanical allodynia and hyperalgesia, and decrease mechanically evoked responses of Aδ nociceptors. Twenty-four hours after intraplantar injection of complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA), rats exhibited allodynia (decrease in paw withdrawal threshold) and hyperalgesia (increase in paw withdrawal frequency), which were attenuated by both ACEA and methAEA. The antinociceptive effects of these cannabinoids were blocked by co-administration with the CB1receptor antagonist N-(piperidin-1-yl)-5-(4-iodophenyl)-1-(2,4-dichlorophen yl)-4-methyl-1H-pyrazole-3-carboxamide (AM251) but not with the CB2receptor antagonist 6-iodo-2-methyl-1-[2-(4-morpholinyl)ethyl]-1H-indol-3-y l](4-methoxyphenyl)methanone (AM630). ACEA and methAEA did not produce antinociception under control, non-inflamed conditions 24 h after intraplantar injection of saline. In parallel studies, recordings were made from cutaneous Aδ nociceptors from inflamed or control, non-inflamed skin. Both ACEA and methAEA decreased responses evoked by mechanical stimulation of Aδ nociceptors from inflamed skin but not from non-inflamed skin, and this decrease was blocked by administration of the CB1receptor antagonist AM251. These results suggest that attenuation of mechanically evoked responses of Aδ nociceptors contributes to the behavioral antinociception produced by activation of peripheral CB1receptors during inflammation.
Sex-specific hippocampus-dependent cognitive deficits and increased neuronal autophagy in DEspR haploinsufficiency in mice
Authors: Herrera Victoria L. M. , Decano Julius L. , Bagamasbad Pia , Kufahl Timothy , Steffen Martin , Ruiz-Opazo Nelson
Published: September 2008

Aside from abnormal angiogenesis, dual endothelin-1/VEGF signal peptide-activated receptor deficiency ( DEspR−/−) results in aberrant neuroepithelium and neural tube differentiation, thus elucidating DEspR's role in neurogenesis. With the emerging importance of neurogenesis in adulthood, we tested the hypothesis that nonembryonic-lethal DEspR haploinsufficiency ( DEspR+/−) perturbs neuronal homeostasis, thereby facilitating aging-associated neurodegeneration. Here we show that, in male mice only, DEspR-haploinsufficiency impaired hippocampus-dependent visuospatial and associative learning and induced noninflammatory spongiform changes, neuronal vacuolation, and loss in the hippocampus, cerebral cortex, and subcortical regions, consistent with autophagic cell death. In contrast, DEspR+/−females exhibited better cognitive performance than wild-type females and showed absence of neuropathological changes. Signaling pathway analysis revealed DEspR-mediated phosphorylation of activators of autophagy inhibitor mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) and dephosphorylation of known autophagy inducers. Altogether, the data demonstrate DEspR-mediated diametrical, sex-specific modulation of cognitive performance and autophagy, highlight cerebral neuronal vulnerability to autophagic dysregulation, and causally link DEspR haploinsufficiency with increased neuronal autophagy, spongiosis, and cognitive decline in mice.
On Coincidence and Fixed-Point Theorems in Symmetric Spaces
Authors: Cho Seong-Hoon , Lee Gwang-Yeon , Bae Jong-Sook
Published: September 2008

We give an axiom (C.C) in symmetric spaces and investigate the relationships between (C.C) and axioms (W3), (W4), and (H.E). We give some results on coinsidence and fixed-point theorems in symmetric spaces, and also, we give some examples for the results of Imdad et al. (2006).
Pretreatment with Low Doses of Erythropoietin Ameliorates Brain Damage in Periventricular Leukomalacia by Targeting Late Oligodendrocyte Progenitors: A Rat Model
Authors: Mizuno Keisuke , Hida Hideki , Masuda Tadashi , Nishino Hitoo , Togari Hajime
Published: September 2008

Background: One of the pathological hallmarks of periventricular leukomalacia (PVL) is the selective vulnerability of late oligodendrocyte progenitors (preoligodendrocytes; preOLs) to hypoxia-ischemia (H-I). It is unknown whether recombinant human erythropoietin (rhEPO) protects preOLs in vivo. Objectives: To develop a rat PVL model in which preOLs are selectively damaged and exhibit similar pathological changes to diffuse-type human PVL, various conditions of H-I were compared in P2–P7 rats (P2 = postnatal day 2). To evaluate the effect of rhEPO on oligoprotection (preOLs), rhEPO was administered to P3 PVL rats. Methods: After counts of NG2-positive and O4-positive cells were performed in P2–P7 rats, right common carotid artery occlusion followed by 6% O2 for 0–120 min was performed in P2–P4 rats. The mortality and histological alterations after hematoxylin/eosin staining and ED1 immunostaining were assessed 2 days after H-I. Various doses of rhEPO (1–30,000 U/kg i.p.) were administered to PVL rats 15 min before administration of 6% O2. Results: Double-positive cells for NG2 and O4 were detected from P2, and their number gradually increased until P7. Although right common carotid artery occlusion with 6% O2 for 60 min resulted in a relatively high proportion of deaths in P2–P4 rats, typical histological changes in the PVL diffuse component were found in most surviving P3 animals. With 50–100 U/kg rhEPO, the histological damage was attenuated. Conclusions: Histological changes similar to those seen in the PVL diffuse component were induced by H-I in P3 rats, in which preOLs were gradually developing, and a low dose of rhEPO was effective in the treatment of brain damage induced by H-I.
Nicotine in a Small-to-Moderate Dose Does Not Cause a Significant Increase in Plasma Catecholamine Levels in Newborn Piglets
Authors: Andresen Jannicke Hanne , Godang Kristin , Munkeby Berit H. , Stray-Pedersen Babill , Saugstad Ola Didrik
Published: September 2008

Background: Nicotine has a wide range of effects. Several studies are being undertaken investigating the positive effects on inflammation and apoptosis. Recently, nicotine has been investigated in a piglet model of perinatal asphyxia, where the question has been raised whether nicotine’s effect on the sympathetic nervous system can explain some of the positive effects. Objectives: We hypothesized that nicotine in small-to-moderate doses would not cause a significant increase in plasma catecholamine levels, whereas a higher dose would give a significant effect, confirming the believed dose-dependent matter in which nicotine exerts its effect on the sympathetic nervous system. Methods: Seventeen anesthetized newborn piglets were randomized to one of three doses of nicotine (130, 260 or 1,000 µg/kg/h) that was given intravenously for 1 h. Blood samples for catecholamine analyzes were drawn at baseline and at the end of the infusion. Catecholamines were determined using HPLC. Results: No significant increase in catecholamines was detected in the animals treated with the small or moderate nicotine doses, whereas the higher dose gave a significant increase in adrenaline (p = 0.019). Conclusion: Nicotine in small-to-moderate doses does not cause significant increase in plasma catecholamines, thus indicating that the positive effects of nicotine in studies using these doses most likely cannot be explained by the systemic release of catecholamines.
High-Dose Methylprednisolone in a Pregnant Woman with Crohn’s Disease and Adrenal Suppression in Her Newborn
Authors: Homar Vesna , Grosek Stefan , Battelino Tadej
Published: September 2008

Background: The synthetic corticosteroid methylprednisolone is used for the treatment of acute exacerbations of Crohn’s disease, also in pregnancy. Its use is considered to be less harmful than the effect of active disease on the fetus. Adrenal suppression in a fetus due to administration of methylprednisolone has hitherto been rarely published. Objective: To present a case of neonatal adrenal suppression due to the use of high-dose methylprednisolone in late pregnancy of a woman with Crohn’s disease. Methods and Results: Clinical signs of adrenal suppression were observed in the newborn 3 h after birth. After hydrocortisone supplementation and intensive therapy the baby recovered completely. Conclusions: Life-threatening adrenal suppression, requiring hydrocortisone supplementation and intensive therapy, was observed and successfully treated in a newborn, whose mother had received high-dose methylprednisolone in late pregnancy.
Recommendations to Increase the Validity and Comparability of Peripheral Measurements by Near Infrared Spectroscopy in Neonates
Authors: Pichler G. , Wolf M. , Roll C. , Weindling M.A. , Greisen G. , Wardle S.P. , Zaramella P. , Naulaers G. , Pellicer A. , Austin T. , Bartocci M. , Urlesberger B.
Published: September 2008

Several studies of peripheral measurements with near infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) and venous or arterial occlusion have been performed in neonates. Results have been variable. Reasons include differences in patient populations, technical aspects of the devices used or the way measurements were made. It is therefore important that there should be common elements for measurement protocols. This statement proposes a standardised approach to allow comparison between different study populations and devices.
Seprase, Dipeptidyl Peptidase IV and Urokinase-Type Plasminogen Activator Expression in Dysplasia and Invasive Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Esophagus
Authors: Goscinski Mariusz Adam , Suo Zhen He , Nesland Jahn Marthin , Chen Wen-Tien , Zakrzewska Malgorzata , Wang Junsheng , Zhang Shanshen , Flørenes Vivi Ann , Giercksky Karl-Erik
Published: September 2008

Objective: Seprase, dipeptidyl peptidase IV (DPPIV) and urokinase-type plasminogen activator (uPA) play a crucial role in the degradation of the extracellular matrix and in the progression of various human tumors. However, their pathophysiologic significance in esophageal carcinoma has not yet been fully elucidated. Methods: The expression of seprase, DPPIV and uPA in esophageal dysplasia, squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and normal epithelium was examined by immunohistochemistry. Results: Seprase, DPPIV and uPA immunoreactivity was found in dysplastic and cancer cells as well as in stromal cells adjacent to dysplasia and cancer sites, but not in normal epithelium. We found a significant association between uPA expression and sex, tumor size and histological classification in carcinomas. High expression of DPPIV in cancer cells correlated with longer survival of the patients. No significant associations between seprase and clinicopathological features either in dysplasia or in carcinomas were found. Finally, we demonstrated higher levels of seprase, DPPIV and uPA in SCC cell lines than in normal esophageal epithelial cell lines. Conclusions: Our results showed that seprase, DPPIV and uPA are expressed in both premalignant and malignant forms of SCC, but are lacking in normal esophageal epithelia, suggesting that they are involved in SCC neoplastic progression.
Use of Anthropometric Indices to Reveal Nutritional Status: Normative Data from 10,226 Chinese Neonates
Authors: Fok Tai-Fai , Hon Kam-Lun , Ng Pak-Cheung , Wong Eric , So Hung-Kwan , Lau Joseph , Chow Chun-Bong , Lee Wai-Hong
Published: September 2008

Background: Measures of body size at birth are widely used for the evaluation of prenatal growth but limitations exist in their interpretation. Objective: To establish the percentile curves for the six common anthropometric indices (PI: ponderal index, BMI: body mass index, THR: thigh circumference/head circumference ratio, MAC/OFC: mid-arm circumference/head circumference, W/OFC: weight/head circumference, and W/L: weight/length) and determine the best anthropometric index for evaluating intrauterine nutritional status in Chinese neonates. Methods: A prospective cross-sectional anthropometric study was carried out. The anthropometric measurements were performed according to the Hall’s guidelines within 48 h of birth. Results: 10,226 infants (5,422 males, 4,804 females) with gestation 28–42 weeks from 12 hospitals were included for analysis. All of the six anthropometric indices correlated well with total skinfold thickness (T-SF, the sum of triceps skinfold thickness and subscapular skinfold thickness; p < 0.0001). Among the six anthropometric indices, W/L showed the highest correlation coefficient with T-SF (r = 0.622; p < 0.0001 in whole group, r = 0.653; p < 0.0001 in preterm infants, r = 0.612; p < 0.0001 in term infants). Conclusion: The present study establishes the gender-specific reference curves for the six important anthropometric indices in Chinese infants. W/L is a readily available index at birth that reflects the intrauterine nutritional state.
Evaluation of Long-Lasting Sensorimotor Consequences following Neonatal Hypoxic-Ischemic Brain Injury in Rats: The Neuroprotective Role of MgSO4
Authors: Pazaiti Anastasia , Soubasi Vassiliki , Spandou Evangelia , Karkavelas George , Georgiou Thomas , Karalis Philippos , Guiba-Tziampiri Olympia
Published: September 2008

Perinatal asphyxia (PA) is a major determinant for long-term sensorimotor and locomotor deficits. The model of neonatal hypoxia-ischemia (HI) in 7-day-old rats produces sensorimotor cortex, thalamus and striatum injury, which are all critical for the maintenance of sensory motor function. The aim of this study was to evaluate the long-term neurodevelopmental disturbances in the above experimental model and to assess the neuroprotective effect of MgSO4 in terms of long-term behavioral and morphological changes. Seven-day-old rats were separated into three groups: A (control), neither ligated nor exposed to hypoxia; B (HI/MgSO4) ligated, exposed to hypoxia and treated with MgSO4 (2 g/kg b.w., i.p.), and C (HI) ligated and exposed to hypoxia. At the age of 42 days, the behavior of the rats was evaluated using 5 sensorimotor tests. Muscle power, motor coordination, reflexes, and limb placing were tested to different sensory stimuli. The study was completed with the histopathological evaluation of brain tissue damage. In all individual tests the HI-treated rats performed significantly worse than the control and MgSO4-treated rats and this difference was more pronounced in the limb placing tests. Additionally, neonatal HI resulted in extensive neuronal damage that was limited after MgSO4 administration. Behavioral alterations represent a useful endpoint for studying the consequences of a perinatal HI insult and the efficacy of potential neuroprotective treatments. MgSO4 administration resulted in prevention of HI-induced sensorimotor deficits and brain injury.
Is the Fetal Lung a Mineralocorticoid Receptor Target Organ? Induction of Cortisol-Regulated Genes in the Ovine Fetal Lung, Kidney and Small Intestine
Authors: Keller-Wood Maureen , von Reitzenstein Marcela , McCartney Jarret
Published: September 2008

Background: Lung, kidney and small intestine are involved in fetal volume regulation and amniotic fluid secretion and play a pivotal role in the transition from intrauterine to extrauterine life. Objective: This study was performed to determine the ontogeny of mineralocorticoid receptors (MR) and glucocorticoid receptors (GR), and of MR- and GR-regulated genes and proteins, serum and glucocorticoid-induced kinase (Sgk-1), epithelial sodium channel (ENaCα), and Na,K-ATPase α1. Methods: Lung, renal cortex and medulla, and small intestine were collected from fetuses at 80, 100, 120, 130 and 145 days’ gestation and from day 1 and 7 neonatal lambs. Real-time PCR was performed to determine mRNA concentration for MR, GR, the 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases (11β-HSD1 and 2), Sgk-1, ENaCα, and Na,K-ATPase α1. Protein expression of ENaCα and Na,K-ATPase α1 in whole cell and membrane fractions was determined by immunoblotting. Results: Expression of corticosteroid-induced genes in renal cortex increases at term; in small intestine the induction occurs postnatally. In contrast, in lung expression of MR and GR mRNAs were greater at 100 days to term than postnatally and 11β-HSD1 peaked at 145 days; the corticosteroid-induced genes also increased prenatally: Sgk-1 and ENaCα increased by 120 days, peaking at 145 days, and Na,K-ATPase α1 was greatest at 130 days. Conclusions: The expression of high levels of MR and 11β-HSD1 in preterm fetal lung suggest low endogenous fetal cortisol may exert actions at the high affinity MR in vivo, leading to increases in expression of sodium channels important in the regulation of lung liquid secretion and reabsorption.
Upper Arm Anthropometry Is Not a Valid Predictor of Regional Body Composition in Preterm Infants
Authors: Pereira-da-Silva L. , Abecasis F. , Virella D. , Videira-Amaral J.M.
Published: September 2008

Background: Upper arm anthropometry has been used in the nutritional assessment of small infants, but it has not yet been validated as a predictor of regional body composition in this population. Objective: Validation of measured and derived upper arm anthropometry as a predictor of arm fat and fat-free compartments in preterm infants. Methods: Upper arm anthropometry, including the upper arm cross-sectional areas, was compared individually or in combination with other anthropometric measurements, with the cross-sectional arm areas measured by magnetic resonance imaging, in a cohort of consecutive preterm appropriate-for-gestational-age neonates, just before discharge. Results: Thirty infants born with (mean ± SD) a gestational age of 30.7 ± 1.9 weeks and birth weight of 1,380 ± 325 g, were assessed at 35.4 ± 1.1 weeks of corrected gestational age, weighing 1,785 ± 93 g. None of the anthropometric measurements are reliable predictors (r2 < 0.56) of the measurements obtained by magnetic resonance imaging, individually or in combination with other anthropometric measurements. Conclusion: Both measured anthropometry and derived upper arm anthropometry are inaccurate predictors of regional body composition in preterm appropriate-for-gestational-age infants.
Accumulation of CD8+CD45RA+CD62L+ T Cells in Acute Chylothorax in Neonates
Authors: Prelog Martina , Kipp Sabine , Kern Hannelore , Neu Nikolaus
Published: September 2008

Background: Acute chylothorax in neonates is a rare disease but results in significant loss of lymphatic cells. Objectives: The purpose of the study was to determine whether acute chylothorax in neonates results in quantitative changes of lymphocyte subpopulations in peripheral blood and chyle. Methods: 6 neonates who had acute chylothorax after thoracic surgery due to transposition of the great arteries were prospectively enrolled in the study. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) and chylous fluid mononuclear cells (CFMC) including CD45RA+ and CD45RO+ T cells and the expression of the lymphocyte homing marker CD62L were investigated by fluorescence-activated cell sorting. Results: In chyle, CD3+CD45RA+ T cells were significantly increased compared to peripheral blood (PMBC: median 65.8% of CD3+; range 32.3–76.9% vs. CFMC: 90.3%; 68.6–94.4%) (p = 0.02). In chyle, changes of percentages of the CD45RA+ were limited to CD8-expressing T cells (CD8+CD45RA+: PBMC: 77.3%; 69.3–85.6% vs. CFMC: 93.2%; 86.3–98.5%) (p = 0.02). The CD8+CD45RA+ were mainly CD62L+ (PBMC: 59.4%; 31.6–62.0% vs. CFMC: 87.8%; 62.7–90.7%) (p = 0.02). Conclusions: The study gives evidence that acute chylothorax in neonates results in immunophenotypic alterations and accumulation of certain T-cell subpopulations in the pleural cavity. Although limited by small numbers of patients due to the rare manifestation of the disease, we were able to demonstrate an abundance of CD8+CD45RA+ T cells expressing CD62L in the chyle compared to peripheral blood. However, whether CD62L expression may contribute to the accumulation of CD8+CD45RA+ T cells in chyle and whether quantitative changes of these specific cells are of clinical relevance has to be determined.
History of Neonatal Resuscitation – Part 2: Oxygen and Other Drugs
Authors: Obladen Michael
Published: September 2008

Oxygen was used in neonatal resuscitation from 1780, within 5 years of its detection. It rapidly gained general acceptance and infiltrated delivery rooms and, a century later, neonatal special care units. After 217 years without scientific evidence, the use of oxygen for neonatal resuscitation has recently been questioned. Continuous distending airway pressure for oxygen administration was available at the beginning of the 20th century, but was not widely accepted. Alkali and analeptic drugs gained widespread but short-lived use after the Second World War.
Accuracy of Ocular Axial Length Measurement with MRI
Authors: Akduman E.I. , Nacke R.E. , Leiva P.M. , Akduman L.
Published: September 2008

Background: This study assessed axial length measurements taken with MRI compared to A-scan ultrasonography for use in silicone-filled eyes with cataracts. Methods: This study was a double-blinded prospective comparison study of axial length measurements made by MRI and A-scan ultrasonography. MRI scans of 20 patients undergoing MRI were reviewed to determine axial length. Standard A-scan measurements of axial length were also obtained. Axial length measurements by MRI were compared to A-scan ultrasonography measurements. Results: In 36 eyes, an MRI scan was obtained in the correct plane to measure the axial length. The axial length measured by MRI was on average 0.18 ± 0.29 mm longer (range –0.41 to +0.7 mm) than the axial length measured by A-scan, for a refractive error average of +0.28 ± 0.58 D (SD), and a range of –1.06 to +1.52 D. Conclusions: Axial length measurements with MRI match reliably with axial lengths measured by A-scan ultrasonography.
Neuroimmunomodulation by Nutrition in Stress Situations
Authors: Romeo Javier , Wärnberg Julia , Gómez-Martínez Sonia , Díaz Ligia Esperanza , Marcos Ascensión
Published: September 2008

Stress has long been suspected to play a role in the etiology of many diseases and may be detrimental to health. Nowadays, the communication between the neuroendocrine and the immune systems is well established and there is enough evidence that the magnitude of stress-associated immune dysregulation is large enough to have health implications. In stress conditions, modulation of the immune system by the central nervous system (CNS) is mediated by a complex network of signals, showing a relationship between stress and resistance to infection. On the other hand, an adequate balanced diet plays a crucial role in the management of stress, and nutrition seems to be a critical determinant in the interactions among CNS and the immune system under stress conditions. Thus, interactions among nutrition, CNS and the immune system could be a key to understand implications in physiological stress situations. The present article will briefly review nutrition approaches on stress-related immune response and CNS communication.
Brazil: Public Health Genomics
Authors: Castilla E.E. , Luquetti D.V.
Published: September 2008

Brazil represents half of South America and one third of Latin America, having more than 186 million inhabitants. After China and India it is the third largest developing country in the world. The wealth is unequally distributed among the states and among the people. Brazil has a large and complex health care system. A Universal Public Health System (SUS: Sistema SPACEnico de Saúde) covers the medical expenses for 80% of the population. The genetic structure of the population is very complex, including a large proportion of tri- hybrid persons, genetic isolates, and a panmictic large majority. Genetic services are offered at 64 genetic centers, half of them public and free. Nationwide networks are operating for inborn errors of metabolism, oncogenetics, and craniofacial anomalies. The Brazilian Society of Medical Genetics (SBGM) has granted 120 board certifications since 1986, and 7 recognized residences in medical genetics are operating in the country. Three main public health actions promoted by the federal government have been undertaken in the last decade, ultimately aimed at the prevention of birth defects. Since 1999, birth defects are reported for all 3 million annual live births, several vaccination strategies aim at the eradication of rubella, and wheat and maize flours are fortified with folic acid. Currently, the government distributes over 2 million US dollars to finance 14 research projects aimed at providing the basis for the adequate prevention and care of genetics disorders through the SUS. Continuity of this proactive attitude of the government in the area of genomics in public health is desired.
A Decade of Public Health Genomics in the United States: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention 1997–2007
Authors: Khoury M.J. , Bowen S. , Bradley L.A. , Coates R. , Dowling N.F. , Gwinn M. , Kolor K. , Moore C.A. , St. Pierre J. , Valdez R. , Yoon P.W.
Published: September 2008

Since 1997, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has collaborated with numerous partners to develop and chart the course of the multidisciplinary field of public health genomics in the USA and globally. During this period, CDC has developed major initiatives for the appropriate integration of genomics into public health research, policy and programs. In this paper, we review briefly the progress in public health genomics made over the past decade in the USA, including population research, the human genome epidemiology network (HuGENetTM), the evaluation of genomic applications in practice and prevention (EGAPP), the family history public health initiative, and efforts in building the public health genomics capacity. We also outline a vision for public health genomics for the next decade.
Ethical, Legal, and Social Issues in Health Technology Assessment for Prenatal/Preconceptional and Newborn Screening: A Workshop Report
Authors: Potter B.K. , Avard D. , Entwistle V. , Kennedy C. , Chakraborty P. , McGuire M. , Wilson B.J.
Published: September 2008

Prenatal/preconceptional and newborn screening programs have been a focus of recent policy debates that have included attention to ethical, legal, and social issues (ELSIs). In parallel, there has been an ongoing discussion about whether and how ELSIs may be addressed in health technology assessment (HTA). We conducted a knowledge synthesis study to explore both guidance and current practice regarding the consideration of ELSIs in HTA for prenatal/preconceptional and newborn screening. As the concluding activity for this project, we held a Canadian workshop to discuss the issues with a diverse group of stakeholders. Based on key workshop themes integrated with our study results, we suggest that population-based genetic screening programs may present particular types of ELSIs and that a public health ethics perspective is potentially highly relevant when considering them. We also suggest that approaches to addressing ELSIs in HTA for prenatal/preconceptional and newborn screening may need to be flexible enough to respond to diversity in HTA organizations, cultural values, stakeholder communities, and contextual factors. Finally, we highlight a need for transparency in the way that HTA producers move from evidence to conclusions and the ways in which screening policy decisions are made.
Reliability and Clinical Relevance of Segmental Analysis Based on Intelligibility Assessment
Authors: van Nuffelen Gwen , De Bodt Marc , Guns Cindy , Wuyts Floris , Van de Heyning Paul
Published: September 2008

Objective: In persons with a speech pathology, improved intelligibility is the fundamental goal of treatment. Identification of specific phonetic features that affect intelligibility, contributes to selecting intervention targets. The main purpose of this study was to investigate whether a segmental analysis based on a perceptual phoneme intelligibility assessment is reliable and can be used for target selection. Secondly, the hypothesis that the degree of agreement for phoneme identification may depend on the intelligibility of the speaker is addressed. Patients and Methods: 30 patients with pathological speech (11 dysarthric, 10 hearing impaired, 9 laryngectomees) were assessed by means of a standardized phoneme intelligibility assessment. The samples were judged twice by 9 experienced listeners. The inter- and intra-rater reliability for each test item were examined. Results: The inter-rater reliability per patient for phoneme identification varied between fair and almost perfect (ĸ: 0.24–0.89). The higher the patient’s intelligibility, the higher the level of agreement (p < 0.001). The intra-rater reliability for phoneme identification across all patients was good (ĸ: 0.603–0.787). Conclusion: A segmental analysis based on a phoneme intelligibility assessment is only reliable and clinically relevant in patients with a slightly to moderately decreased overall intelligibility level.
Comparison of the Humphrey Field Analyser and Humphrey Matrix Perimeter for the Evaluation of Glaucoma Patients
Authors: Chen Yi-Hao , Wu Jian-Nan , Chen Jiann-Torng , Lu Da-Wen
Published: September 2008

Aims: To compare the Humphrey Matrix Perimeter (HMP) with the Humphrey Field Analyser (HFA) in visual-field examinations of patients with glaucoma or suspected glaucoma. Methods: One hundred and forty-nine patients with suspected glaucoma or glaucoma were recruited. All patients underwent visual-field examinations with the Swedish Interactive Threshold Algorithm standard, the central 30-2 threshold test with the HFA, and the frequency doubling technique 30-2 threshold test with the HMP. The examination times, mean deviations (MDs) and pattern standard deviations (PSDs) of both perimeters were compared in all patients and according to the patient’s diagnosis or the severity of their visual-field defects (VFDs). The paired 2-tailed t test and Pearson’s correlation coefficients were used for statistical analyses. Results: Overall, the examination times were significantly shorter with the HMP than with the HFA. There was a positive correlation between the HFA and HMP measurements of MD and PSD. In patients with suspected glaucoma, the PSDs measured with the HMP were significantly higher than those measured with the HFA. In patients with mild VFDs (MD >–4.0 dB), PSDs measured with the HMP were significantly higher than those measured with the HFA. In patients with severe VFDs (MD <–12.0 dB), MDs measured with the HMP were significantly higher than those measured with the HFA, whereas PSDs measured with the HMP were significantly lower than those measured with the HFA. Conclusions: The HMP is more time efficient than the HFA in visual-field examinations. The HMP tends to overestimate mild VFDs and underestimate severe VFDs.
Modulation of Lung Allergic Inflammation and Malnutrition
Authors: Landgraf Maristella A. , Landgraf Richardt G. , Carvalho Maria Helena C. , Fortes Zuleica B.
Published: September 2008

Nutritional deficiency is commonly associated with a significantly impaired immune response, particularly in relation to cell-mediated immunity, the complement system, cytokine production and phagocyte function. However, there are few data on the consequences of nutritional deficiency in allergic diseases of the lung. In fact, malnutrition is the most common cause of immunodeficiency worldwide. Several studies have indicated that the incidence of alterations in lung functions can be associated with birth weight, specifically with maternal malnutrition, but data linking intrauterine undernutrition with allergic diseases of the lung are lacking. The purpose of this review is to associate malnutrition, including intrauterine malnutrition, with the establishment of immune responses and the development of lung allergic inflammation.
Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus Elicits a Weak Interferon Response Compared to Traditional Interferon-Inducing Viruses
Authors: Scagnolari Carolina , Trombetti Simona , Cicetti Simona , Antonelli Silvia , Selvaggi Carla , Perrone Lorena , Visca Michela , Romano Sara , Antonelli Guido
Published: September 2008

The aim of the present study is to investigate changes of interferon (IFN) production occurring over the first 48 h after infection of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) with severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) coronavirus (CoV) and to compare these changes to those induced by well-established IFN-inducing viruses, such as vesicular stomatitis (VSV) and Newcastle viruses (NDV). Experiments have been carried out using PBMCs of 10 different healthy donors. The results showed that the antiviral activity of IFN contained in the supernatant of SARS-CoV-infected PBMCs was lower than those induced by VSV and NDV. Consequently, SARS-CoV induces a lower synthesis of IFN-α, -β and -γ compared to VSV and NDV. Characterization of the profile of IFN-α subtypes genes expression in SARS-CoV-infected PBMCs demonstrated that the level of IFN-α2 and -6 subtypes were higher compared to other IFN-α subtypes namely, IFN-α5, -8, -10, -13/1, -17, and -21. In conclusion, SARS-CoV induces IFNs to a less extent compared to VSV and NDV, thus suggesting that the IFN system does play a limited role in early host defense against SARS-CoV infection.
Impact of HIV on Genomic Variability in the 5′UTR of HCV in Indian Patients with HCV/HIV Co-Infection
Authors: Chaudhary Artee , Kukreti Himani , Pasha Syed Tazeen , Gupta Sunil , Kumari Manisha , Khare Shashi , Lal Shiv , Rai Arvind
Published: September 2008

Background: The impact of HIV on hepatitis C virus (HCV) genome during HCV/HIV co-infection is poorly understood. The present study was intended to unveil nucleotide sequence variability in the 5′-untranslated region (5′UTR) of HCV in co-infected cases. Methods: Automated nucleotide sequencing of the 5′UTR of HCV from both mono- and co-infected cases was performed. Results: Data analysis revealed deletion of a continuous stretch of 12 nucleotides (nt 240–251) from domain IIIc in 20% co-infected cases, but no long-stretch deletion was observed in HCV from mono-infected cases. On the contrary, there was no insertion in the 5′UTR of HCV from co-infectedcases, but there were insertions in domain II and III (3 mononucleotides and 2 dinucleotides) of the 5′UTR in mono-infected cases. Conclusion: Since domain III is known to be important for binding of 40S ribosomal subunit, deletion of a single stretch of 12 nucleotides in HCV from co-infected cases observed in the present study may have implications during HCV replication with or without HIV infection. Although this is the first report on genomic heterogeneity in the 5′UTR of HCV from HCV/HIV co-infected Indian patients, it would be worthwhile to study if similar changes are observed in other genes of HCV during co-infection.
LORETA Functional Imaging in Antipsychotic-Naive and Olanzapine-, Clozapine- and Risperidone-Treated Patients with Schizophrenia
Authors: Tislerova Barbora , Brunovsky Martin , Horacek Jiri , Novak Tomas , Kopecek Miloslav , Mohr Pavel , Krajca Vladimír
Published: September 2008

The aim of our study was to detect changes in the distribution of electrical brain activity in schizophrenic patients who were antipsychotic naive and those who received treatment with clozapine, olanzapine or risperidone. We included 41 subjects with schizophrenia (antipsychotic naive = 11; clozapine = 8; olanzapine = 10; risperidone = 12) and 20 healthy controls. Low-resolution brain electromagnetic tomography was computed from 19-channel electroencephalography for the frequency bands delta, theta, alpha-1, alpha-2, beta-1, beta-2 and beta-3. We compared antipsychotic-naive subjects with healthy controls and medicated patients. (1) Comparing antipsychotic-naive subjects and controls we found a general increase in the slow delta and theta frequencies over the fronto-temporo-occipital cortex, particularly in the temporolimbic structures, an increase in alpha-1 and alpha-2 in the temporal cortex and an increase in beta-1 and beta-2 in the temporo-occipital and posterior limbic structures. (2) Comparing patients who received clozapine and those who were antipsychotic naive, we found an increase in delta and theta frequencies in the anterior cingulate and medial frontal cortex, and a decrease in alpha-1 and beta-2 in the occipital structures. (3) Comparing patients taking olanzapine with those who were antipsychotic naive, there was an increase in theta frequencies in the anterior cingulum, a decrease in alpha-1, beta-2 and beta-3 in the occipital cortex and posterior limbic structures, and a decrease in beta-3 in the frontotemporal cortex and anterior cingulum. (4) In patients taking risperidone, we found no significant changes from those who were antipsychotic naive. Our results in antipsychotic-naive patients are in agreement with existing functional findings. Changes in those taking clozapine and olanzapine versus those who were antipsychotic naive suggest a compensatory mechanism in the neurobiological substrate for schizophrenia. The lack of difference in risperidone patients versus antipsychotic-naive subjects may relate to risperidone’s different pharmacodynamic mechanism.
Comparison of Midlatency Auditory Sensory Gating at Short and Long Interstimulus Intervals
Authors: Rentzsch Johannes , Gomez-Carrillo de Castro Ana , Neuhaus Andres , Jockers-Scherübl Maria C. , Gallinat Jürgen
Published: September 2008

Rationale: Suppression of P50, N100 and P200 auditory evoked responses in a dual-click procedure is considered an index for the multistage sensory gating process. Whereas most studies use a protocol with long interstimulus intervals of 8–12 s between the stimuli pairs, there is also evidence that sensory gating occurs at much lower intervals. The aim of the study was to investigate whether a simple modified dual-click protocol with short interstimulus intervals elicts similar sensory gating ratios compared to the classic protocol. Methods: P50, N100 and P200 amplitudes and sensory gating ratios were measured in 23 healthy subjects with 2 different dual-click protocols in 1 session: (1) a simple oddball modified with short interstimulus intervals of about 2.8 s (ISI2), and (2), the classic used with long intervals of about 8 s (ISI8). Results: The amplitudes of the P50, N100 and P200 responses were mostly comparable and correlated between both protocols. Mean sensory gating ratios (ISI8/ISI2) were as follows: P50, 35.4/36.4%; N40P50, 36.1/39.9%; N100, 44.4/48.4%; P200, 46.8/43.3%; N100P200, 45.3/41.8%; all differences between protocols, p > 0.1. P50 ratio scores did not show a sufficient correlation between protocols [intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) P50, 0.13; N40P50, 0.0] compared to N100 (ICC, 0.79), P200 (ICC, 0.6) and N100P200 (ICC, 0.61). Conclusion: Our results contradict the assumption that long interstimulus intervals of about 8 s are absolutely necessary to elicit a marked sensory gating phenomenon for P50, N100 and P200 auditory responses (at least when using a protocol with a simple attention task). However, because only healthy subjects were investigated, no prediction can be made for psychiatric patients, in whom neuronal processing may be different.
White Matter Fibertracking in First-Episode Schizophrenia, Schizoaffective Patients and Subjects at Ultra-High Risk of Psychosis
Authors: Peters Bart D. , de Haan Lieuwe , Dekker Nienke , Blaas Jorik , Becker Hiske E. , Dingemans Peter M. , Akkerman Erik M. , Majoie Charles B. , van Amelsvoort Therèse , den Heeten Gerard J. , Linszen Don H.
Published: September 2008

There is increasing evidence of white matter pathology in schizophrenia. The aim of this study was to examine whether white matter abnormalities found with diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) in previous schizophrenia studies are present in the early phase of the illness. DTI was performed at 3 T on 10 male patients with a first (n = 8) or second (n = 2) psychotic episode of schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder, 10 male patients at ultra-high risk of psychosis with (pre)psychotic symptoms and 10 healthy controls. Fibertracts found to be abnormal in other DTI studies (uncinate and arcuate fasciculus, anterior and dorsal cingulum, subdivisions of the corpus callosum) were calculated and visualized; tract-specific measurements (fractional anisotropy and trace) were performed. No differences were found between the healthy subjects and the 2 patient groups. These preliminary findings suggest that there is no white matter pathology of these association tracts detectable with DTI in the early stages of schizophrenic illness in males. Our findings are in contrast with DTI abnormalities found in some other first-episode studies. This discrepancy in findings may be related to differences in subject characteristics and DTI methodology. Possible effects of age, gender, level of education and illicit substance use on DTI findings in schizophrenia are discussed.