bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gamma-Probe-Directed Lymphatic Mapping and Sentinel Lymphadenectomy in Primary Cutaneous Melanoma
Authors: Belhocine T. , Piérard G.E. , Gielen J.L. , Daenen F. , De Barsy C. , Arrese J.E. , Lahaye T. , Rigo P.
Published: April 2003

Background: Radiotracer and blue-dye lymphatic mapping is a recommended combined method to guide sentinel lymphadenectomy and full regional lymph node dissection in selected patients with cutaneous melanoma. Objective: To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy and the prognostic value of gamma-probe-directed lymphatic mapping in cutaneous melanomas. Methods: Sixty-five stage I and II melanoma patients underwent gamma-probe-directed lymphatic mapping. Sentinel lymph nodes were studied by both conventional and immunohistochemical stainings. The median follow-up was 11 months. Results: Sensitivities of preoperative and intraoperative sentinel lymph node detection were 100 and 98%, respectively. Only 1 failure of detection and 1 missed same-basin metastasis were experienced in the axillary and cervical areas, respectively. Eleven patients (16.9%) had sentinel node metastases leading to adjuvant therapy. Conclusion: Gamma-probe-directed lymphatic mapping is useful for staging melanoma. However, in the expectation of a more specific identification of the sentinel lymph node, the standard protocol remains recommended for exploring the axillary and cervical areas. The histological examination supported in some cases by immunohistochemistry remains mandatory in all cases.
Differences in Glottal Opening Pattern between Tokyo and Osaka Dialect Speakers: Factors Contributing to Vowel Devoicing
Authors: Fujimoto Masako , Murano Emi , Niimi Seiji , Kiritani Shigeru
Published: April 2003

In Japanese, high vowels /i/ and /u/ are often devoiced when they are preceded and followed by voiceless consonants. The phenomenon is called vowel devoicing. The frequency of its occurrence is high in dialects of eastern Japan including standard (Tokyo) Japanese and low in dialects of western Japan including Osaka dialect. It has been claimed that consonants, but not vowels, are pronounced more carefully in eastern dialects compared to western dialects, which results in higher frequency of vowel devoicing. This paper examines whether the glottal opening gesture of voiceless consonants differs between those Tokyo speakers who consistently show vowel devoicing and Osaka speakers who do not show vowel devoicing. The results indicated that the duration of glottal opening for /k/ in voiced CV syllables was significantly longer for Tokyo speakers than for Osaka speakers. For Tokyo speakers, duration and maximum size of the glottal opening in devoiced /kite/ are significantly larger than /k/ in voiced syllables. This difference cannot be explained by the simple addition of the glottal gestures of [k] and [t]. Furthermore, the difference in vowel length between /i/ and /e/ was related, at least in part, to the difference in the amount of the airflow passing through the vocal tract about the time the stop closure was released.
Outcome of Dialysis Access-Related Septicemia among Diabetics following Optimized AV-Fistula Placement
Authors: Saxena Anil K. , Panhotra B.R. , Naguib Mohammed , Sundaram D.S. , Venkateshappa C.K. , Uzzaman Wahid , Al Mulhim Khalifa
Published: April 2003

Background: AV fistula (AVF) is the safest of vascular accesses with lowest infection rates; yet only 23% patients used AVF during 1997 in USA. The lower prevalence of AVF among diabetics on hemodialysis (HD) places them at a higher risk of vascular-access-related septicemia (VRS) and ensuing mortality. In this study we assessed the outcome of VRS after maximizing the frequency of native AVF in this largest growing population on HD. Methods: Study included 218 patients, 63 diabetics and 155 nondiabetics on HD, through July 1996 to July 2000 when National Kidney Foundation-Dialysis Outcome and Quality Initiative (NKF-DOQI) set goal was accomplished with overall 72% of functioning AVF (57.2% diabetics and 78.1% nondiabetics) through joint efforts of nephrologists and vascular surgeons.  Results: Overall, 10.6% patients per year developed VRS through 125 episodes, over 10,464 patient-months, recording 1.19 episodes per 100 patient-months. In the diabetic group, 13.87% patients per year had VRS during 44 episodes with 1.45 episodes per 100 patient-months while 1.08 episodes per 100 patient-months were recorded in nondiabetics with 9.35% per year having VRS during 81 episodes. Collectively, catheters recorded 1.5 folds higher VRS episodes in diabetic than in nondiabetic group. Mortality of 9.28% per year in diabetic group as compared to that of 6.45% per year in nondiabetic group [RR-1.436, 95% CI (0.778–2.651)] was observed, while overall mortality of 7.5% per year recorded is a good deal lower than 12–22% reported. Conclusion: The NKF-DOQI set aim of dialyzing over 50% patients through AVF is attainable in diabetics as well. Optimizing AVF is a viable approach to lessen VRS related mortality in diabetics on HD. Our continued dependence on vascular catheters is largely responsible for higher mortality in diabetics than nondiabetics on HD due to lack of cagily established pre-ESRD program for diabetics.
Serum Insulin-Like Growth Factor 1 Level and Nutritional Assessment in Nondialytic Patients with Chronic Renal Failure
Authors: Lu Fangping , Li Ping , Zheng Falei , Zhang Zhaoquan , Tomino Yasuhiko
Published: April 2003

Aim: In order to understand the nutritional status of nondialytic patients with chronic renal failure (CRF), nutritional assessment was made in 20 nondialytic patients (15 males and 5 females; mean age 43.7 ± 15.1 years). Methods: Twenty CRF inpatients were selected for nutritional assessment, and 20 normal subjects served as controls. The serum insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) concentration was measured by ELISA. Serum albumin, prealbumin, and transferrin levels were also determined. Results: The mean IGF-I and transferrin levels in the CRF patients were significantly lower than those in normal subjects (IGF-1: 176.2 ± 92.5 µg/l vs. 266.7 ± 101.7 µg/l, p < 0.01; transferrin: 2.57 ± 0.58 g/l vs. 3.18 ± 0.27 g/l, p < 0.05). The IGF-1 levels in 7 patients with a serum albumin concentration <40.0 g/l were significantly lower than those in 13 patients with a serum albumin concentration >40.0 g/l (95.6 ± 42.4 µg/l vs. 219.6 ± 82.7 µg/l, p < 0.01). The IGF-1 levels in cases treated with α-ketoacid were higher than in those without α-ketoacid treatment. The IGF-1 levels were positively correlated with creatinine clearance (r = 0.7066, p < 0.01) and serum transferrin concentration (r = 0.5347, p < 0.05). Conclusions: The fact that serum IGF-1 was correlated with serum transferrin and creatinine clearance suggests that IGF-1 may be a good indicator for assessing the nutritional status of CRF patients. The serum IGF-1 level in CRF patients is probably lower than that in normal subjects and could be improved by nutritional therapy.
Endothelial Damage, Asymmetric Dimethylarginine and Cardiovascular Risk in End-Stage Renal Disease
Authors: Zoccali Carmine
Published: April 2003

To be appropriately labelled as a ‘risk factor’ any putative risk factor should increase the prediction power of standard statistical models based on ‘traditional’ (Framingham) risk factors. In end-stage renal disease (ESRD), Framingham risk factors do not fully explain the cardiovascular burden of these patients. Inflammation, hyperhomocysteinemia and anemia contribute to the high cardiovascular risk of ESRD, but knowledge is still incomplete. We suspected that asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) is an important cardiovascular risk factor in dialysis patients. This substance inhibits nitric oxide synthase thus triggering a series of pathophysiological events leading to atherosclerosis. To test this hypothesis, we studied the relationship between ADMA and intima media thickness (IMT) in the carotid artery. ADMA was found to be strongly and independently related to IMT. More importantly we found that patients with relatively higher plasma ADMA had shorter survival and a higher rate of incident cardiovascular complications in comparison to those with a relatively lower plasma concentration. These data represent a sound basis for intervention studies aimed at modifying the plasma ADMA concentration in ESRD patients.
Complex Cognitive Disruption in Motor Neuron Disease
Authors: Moretti Rita , Torre Paola , Antonello Rodolfo M. , Carraro Nicola , Cazzato Giuseppe , Bava Antonio
Published: April 2003

We describe 14 patients having been diagnosed as suffering from motor neuron disease (MND). These patients underwent a detailed and sequential neuropsychological evaluation, with particular care of neurolinguistic assessment. Their results have been compared to those obtained by a group of healthy volunteers. The most obvious disclosure was the finding of 4 cases of frontal dementia in the MND group. Apart from that, we demonstrated subtle though evident frontal disruption signs, evidenced by an alteration in language planning, language comprehension, morphosyntactic operations, planning, attention deficit, and abstract reasoning disturbances which got worse during the 15 months of follow-up in all the other subjects. We suggest that a specific and sensitive neurolinguistic and neuropsychological test battery could detect signs of disruption of cognition present even in the sporadic form of MND. We discuss the results with a review of the literature.
Alzheimer Disease – Effect of Continuous Intracerebroventricular Treatment with GM1 Ganglioside and a Systematic Activation Programme
Authors: Svennerholm Lars , Bråne Görel , Karlsson Ingvar , Lekman Annika , Ramström Ingalill , Wikkelsö Carsten
Published: April 2003

Five patients with the early-onset form of Alzheimer disease (AD) received GM1 ganglioside by continuous injection into the frontal horns of the lateral ventricles for a period of 12 months. The optimal GM1 dose varied between 20 and 30 mg/24 h. The patients were trained twice a week for 4–5 h with an individually designed cognitive programme, which included the use of a word processor. Neurological, neuropsychological, psychiatric and neurochemical examinations were performed a week before surgery and on days 30, 90, 180, 270 and 365 after surgery. The cerebrospinal fluid levels of the monoamine metabolites homovanillic acid and 5-hydroxyindoleacetic acid and the neuropeptide somatostatin increased. The regional cerebral blood flow showed a tendency to increase. The progression of deterioration was stopped, and motor performance and neuropsychological assessments improved. The patients became more active and felt safer in relation to other people and performing various activities. They had improved reading comprehension and a better feeling for language. They were able to write reports and short letters on a word processor. When interviewed at the end of the study, all 5 patients stated that they felt better, and their relatives reported that they had regained integrity and their joie de vivre.
Exposure to the Opioid Antagonist Naltrexone throughout Gestation Alters Postnatal Heart Development
Authors: McLaughlin Patricia J.
Published: April 2003

The influence of endogenous opioid blockade by naltrexone during prenatal life on postnatal heart development was studied in rats. Pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats received daily injections of 50 mg/kg naltrexone (NTX) or saline throughout gestation; offspring were cross-fostered at birth to mothers not receiving NTX. In general, NTX-treated offspring weighed more than controls throughout preweaning life, whereas heart weights were often increased from age-matched controls up to 35 days. Biochemical analyses of nucleic acids and protein demonstrated that DNA and protein content were increased throughout development in NTX-treated animals relative to controls. Morphometric analyses revealed increases in total area of the heart and myocardial area in NTX-exposed rats relative to control levels. These data suggest that endogenous opioids function to regulate cardiac growth during the prenatal period, and that disruption of this process has long-term implication for cardiac biology.
Infants of Mothers with HELLP Syndrome Compensate Intrauterine Growth Retardation Faster than Unaffected Premature Infants: Does HELLP Change Fetal Programming?
Authors: Brune Thomas , Baytar-Dagly Bade , Hentschel Roland , Harms Erik , Louwen Frank
Published: April 2003

Object: To investigate the influence of HELLP (hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes and low platelet count) pregnancies on the postpartal course and further development of the neonate. Methods: The postnatal course and further development up to 4 years of age of 43 infants after pregnancies complicated by HELLP syndrome were evaluated. 43 unexposed infants matched for gestational age and gender served as controls. Results: Small-for-gestational age (SGA) neonates exhibiting hypoglycemia and hypoproteinemia during the first 4 weeks after birth were significantly more commonly observed in the HELLP group (p < 0.5). No other differences in the postpartal course or clinical outcome were detected. At the age of 4 years the gains in weight and length were significantly increased in the HELLP group (p < 0.01). Conclusion: The postnatal course of newborns after HELLP pregnancies is influenced by low energy stores. Fetal programming toward a more efficacious GH-IGF-1 pathway may explain the faster postnatal catch-up growth of premature SGA infants born to mothers with HELLP syndrome.
In vivo Platelet Activation Is Increased during Sleep in Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome
Authors: Geiser Thomas , Buck Florian , Meyer Beat J. , Bassetti Claudio , Haeberli André , Gugger Matthias
Published: April 2003

Background: Patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) have an increased risk of cardiovascular events including myocardial infarction and stroke. Objective: To determine whether in vivo platelet activation and the generation of procoagulant platelet-derived microparticles (PMP) are increased during sleep in patients with OSAS. Methods: In vivo platelet activation and PMP formation was determined using flow cytometry in 12 patients with untreated OSAS during and after sleep (4 and 7 a.m.). To study the effect of treatment with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), the measurements were repeated at the same time points after initiation of CPAP therapy. Healthy volunteers served as controls (n = 6). Results: Patients with OSAS had an increased percentage of platelets positive for the activation-dependent epitopes CD63 and CD62P during sleep (4 a.m.) compared to controls (4.8 ± 0.8 vs. 1.9 ± 0.4% for CD63, p < 0.01, and 2.0 ± 0.5 vs. 1.1 ± 0.3% for CD62P, p < 0.05). In OSAS patients, the amount of CD63- and CD62P-positive platelets was significantly elevated at 4 compared to 7 a.m. (4.8 ± 0.8 vs. 2.6 ± 0.4% for CD63 and 2.0 ± 0.5 vs. 1.1 ± 0.2% for CD62P, p < 0.05), but not in the control group. The levels of PMP were similar in patients with OSAS and controls at 4 and 7 a.m. After 1 night of CPAP therapy, there was a trend to reduced levels of CD63- and CD62P-positive platelets at 4 a.m. Conclusions: Patients with OSAS have increased in vivo platelet activation during sleep, which may contribute to the increased incidence of cardiovascular events in patients with OSAS.
A Vasorelaxing Factor Is Released from Mouse Retinal Tissue
Authors: Boussery Koen , Franki Ann Sophie , Delaey Christophe , van de Voorde Johan
Published: April 2003

The present study aimed to demonstrate the release of a retinal relaxing factor (RRF) from the retina of mice and to investigate the identity of the RRF. Ring segments of a mouse aorta were mounted in a small vessel myograph. The relaxing influence of mouse retinal tissue was assessed by placing a retina in close proximity to the precontracted aorta. This elicited reliable and reproducible relaxations in the aorta. Both the nitric oxide (NO) synthase inhibitor Nω-nitro-L-arginine and the soluble guanylyl cyclase inhibitor 1H-(1,2,4)oxadiazolo(4,3-a)quinoxalin-1-one had no effect on the RRF response. Also the cyclooxygenase inhibitors indomethacin and sodium diclofenac failed to affect the retina-induced relaxations. Acute hypoxia largely enhanced retina-induced relaxations. It is concluded that mouse retinal tissue releases an RRF, that the mouse RRF response is not mediated by NO or prostanoids and that the mouse RRF response is profoundly influenced by hypoxia.
Regulation by Gonadal Steroids of the mRNA Encoding for a Type I Receptor for TGF-β in the Female Rat Hypothalamus
Authors: Bouret Sébastien , Prevot Vincent , Takumi Toru , Beauvillain Jean-Claude , Mitchell Valérie
Published: April 2003

We have recently shown that the mRNA encoding for a type I receptor for transforming growth factor beta and activin – named B1 – is expressed in hypothalamic areas implicated in gonadotropin-releasing hormone regulation, particularly in estrogen-receptive regions. In the present study, we examined whether ovarian steroids may regulate expression of B1 mRNA in the hypothalamus. Comparing relative levels of B1 mRNA expression in ovariectomized (OVX), OVX + estradiol-treated, and OVX + estradiol + progesterone-treated female rats, we observed that estrogen significantly (p < 0.05) downregulated B1 mRNA levels in the anteroventral periventricular nucleus (by 12.5%), medial preoptic nucleus (by 27.5%), and arcuate nucleus (by 29.5%). In contrast, no effects of gonadal steroids were observed in the median preoptic nucleus. We next examined whether cells expressing B1 mRNA may be direct targets for the action of estrogen. Using an in situ hybridization coupled to immunohistochemical labeling, we found that many B1-mRNA-expressing cells also exhibited estrogen receptor alpha immunoreactvity in anteroventral periventricular nucleus, medial preoptic nucleus, and arcuate nucleus. Taken together, these results reveal that estrogen may directly modulate expression of B1 mRNA in the hypothalamus and support the idea that transforming growth factors beta play an important role in the hypothalamic control of gonadotropin-releasing hormone function.
The PICM-19 Cell Line as an in vitro Model of Liver Bile Ductules: Effects of cAMP Inducers, Biopeptides and pH
Authors: Talbot Neil C. , Caperna Thomas J. , Wells Kevin D.
Published: April 2003

The PICM-19 fetal liver cell line was isolated from the primary culture and spontaneous differentiation of pig epiblast cells, i.e. embryonic stem cells. PICM-19 cells were induced to differentiate into mostly ductular formations by culturing at pH 7.6–7.8. The ductules were functionally assayed by treatment with cAMP inducing agents and bioactive peptides reported to influence the secretory activity of liver bile ductules. The secretory response of the cells was assessed by qualitative or quantitative measurement of the cross-sectional area of the ductal lumens and the appearance of biliary canaliculi in between PICM-19 cells that had formed monolayers instead of ducts. Forskolin (10 µM) and 8-bromoadenosine 3′:5′-cyclic monophosphate (bcAMP; 2 mM) stimulated fluid transport and expansion of ductal structures in 15–20 min and stimulated the appearance and expansion of biliary canaliculi in 30–60 min. Cholera toxin (50 ng/ml) stimulates fluid transport in both ductules and canaliculi in 1–2 h, while 8-bromoguanosine 3′:5′-cyclic monophosphate (bcGMP; 2 mM) stimulated only biliary canaliculi in 2 h. Glucagon (1.4 nM) produced a similar response in 5–10 min in ductal structures only, but the response was transitory and was almost completely reversed within 30 min. Secretin (100 pM) and vasoactive intestinal peptide (75 pM) produced a sustained response with maximal ductal lumen expansion occurring in 5–10 min and neither had an immediate effect on canaliculi. Somatostatin (0.5 µM) and gastrin (1 µM) caused marked reduction or disappearance of ductal lumens in 30–60 min, but was ineffective in reversing secretin (100 nM)-induced duct distension. Application of the adrenergic agonists, epinephrine, isoproterenol, and phenylephrine (100 µM), resulted in the complete shrinkage of ductal lumens in 20–30 min. A shift to pH 7.0–7.2 resulted in almost complete reduction of ductal lumens, while a shift to pH 7.8–8.0 resulted in expansion, although not full expansion, of the ductal lumens. PICM-19 bile duct cultures were positive for cytokeratin-7, aquaporin-1 and aquaporin-9 by Western blot analysis. The amounts of these proteins increased in the cultures as differentiation proceeded over time. Transmission electron microscopy revealed that the ductal structures were usually sandwiched between SIM mouse, thioguanine- and ouabain-resistant (STO) feeder cells that had produced a collagen matrix. Also, the ductular PICM-19 cells possessed cilia, probably occurring as a single cilium in each cell, that projected into the lumens of the ducts. The results indicated that the in vitro-produced ductal structures of the PICM-19 cell line are a functional model for biliary epithelium.
Differentiation-Dependent Glycosylation of Cells in Squamous Cell Epithelia Detected by a Mammalian Lectin
Authors: Plzák Jan , Holíková Zuzana , Smetana Jr. Karel , Dvořánková Barbora , Hercogová Jana , Kaltner Herbert , Motlík Jan , Gabius Hans-Joachim
Published: April 2003

The squamous stratified epithelia contain a proliferative (harboring mitotic activity) and a differentiating compartment. Due to the potential of protein-carbohydrate interactions to regulate cellular activities we introduced a mammalian lectin to cyto- and histochemical analysis. We answer the questions of whether and to what extent this new probe can pinpoint differentiation-dependent glycosylation changes in sections and in culture of keratinocytes. Material and Methods: Purification and labeling enabled monitoring of galectin-3 reactivity in frozen sections of human and pig epidermis and basal cell carcinomas as well as in culture of keratinocytes. The staining pattern of the lectin was correlated with the staining profile of other cell markers including desmosomal proteins, β1 integrin, and the proliferation marker Ki-67. The Dolichos biflorus agglutinin (DBA) sharing binding reactivity of galectin-3 to the A type histoblood group epitope was used for comparison. Results: Both lectins exhibit suprabasal binding. However, their profiles were not identical, substantiated by lack of coinhibition. Strong DBA reactivity was also observed in a limited number of basal layer cells, namely in cells without the expression of the proliferation marker Ki-67. Cultured mitotic epidermal cells have no reactivity for DBA. Presence of ligands for this plant lectin was connected with decreased positivity of nuclei for Ki-67 and the occurrence of ring-shaped nucleoli, micronucleoli or absence of nucleoli. Considering colocalization the pattern of galectin-3-binding sites coincided with the presence of desmosomal proteins such as desmoplakin-1 and desmoglein but not β1 integrin, a potential ligand. Interestingly, studied basal cell carcinomas expressed no binding sites for galectin-3, while a limited number of cells were DBA-reactive. Conclusion: The expression of galectin-3-binding sites and also DBA-reactive glycoligands correlates with an increased level of differentiation and/or cessation of proliferation in the examined squamous stratified epithelia. Further application of tissue lectins for characterizing ligand expression and its modulation is an important step to reveal functional relevance.
Morphological and Biochemical Changes of Pituitary Gonadotropes in Male Golden Hamsters Submitted to Short and Long Photoperiods
Authors: Cónsole Gloria M. , Jurado Susana B. , Camihort Gisela , Calandra Ricardo S. , Zitta Karina , Gómez Dumm César L.A.
Published: April 2003

Golden hamsters are seasonal breeders, and a pattern of regression-recrudescence in their hypothalamic-pituitary axis is observed when adult animals are exposed to less than 12.5 h daylight for a prolonged period of time. The purpose of the present work was to investigate the possible morphological and biochemical changes of gonadotrope cell population in male golden hamsters submitted to both short (SP) and long photoperiods (LP). Thus, adult male golden hamsters were exposed to SP (6 h light, 18 h darkness) for 8, 16, 22 and 28 weeks or maintained under LP (14 h light, 10 h darkness). Pituitaries were processed using both light and electron microscopy, and serum levels of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) were assessed by heterologous radioimmunoassay. Volume density [VD = Σ cell area/reference area (RA)] and cell density (CD = number of cells/RA) of gonadotropes were measured with an image analysis system (Imaging Technology, Software Optimas 5.2). When analyzing the gonadotrope population from animals submitted either to SP or LP, no significant differences were found. At the ultrastructural level, we found a decrease (p < 0.05) in the exocytotic profiles and the individual mean area of secretory granules of both gonadotropes in hamsters maintained under SP for 16 and 22 weeks. Exposure to short days resulted in a decline in serum levels showing a nadir after 16 weeks (p < 0.05). Gonadotropin levels of the hamsters under prolonged exposure to short cycles spontaneously returned to normal values after 22 weeks. In summary, we found a decrease in the ultrastructural and biochemical parameters suggesting an altered release of FSH and LH in male golden hamsters submitted to SP, with a spontaneous recrudescence phase appearing at the end of the study.
Enhanced Expression of Thymidylate Synthase Mediates Resistance of Uterine Cervical Cancer Cells to Radiation
Authors: Saga Yasushi , Suzuki Mitsuaki , Mizukami Hiroaki , Urabe Masashi , Fukushima Masakazu , Ozawa Keiya , Sato Ikuo
Published: April 2003

It has been shown that there is an inverse relationship between the level of thymidylate synthase (TS) and therapeutic outcomes in patients with malignancies including cervical cancer. To clarify the mechanism of the poor prognosis of cervical cancer with high TS expression, we introduced TS cDNA to the human uterine cervical cancer cell line SKG-II and evaluated the effect of TS expression on its radiosensitivity. After selection, stable transformants of SKG-II cells expressing high level of TS (SKG-II/TS) and control cells (SKG-II/luciferase) were obtained. The level of TS measured by the FdUMP-TS binding assay was significantly higher (p < 0.05) in SKG-II/TS than in control (2.0 ± 0.1 and 1.3 ± 0.1 pmol/mg, respectively). No difference was observed in in vitro cell growth or in vivo tumor growth. On evaluation of in vitro radiosensitivity, the 50% growth inhibitory dose (ID50) was 3.1 ± 0.1 Gy in SKG-II/TS and was significantly higher (p < 0.01) than that in control (2.2 ± 0.1 Gy). From these results, it is suggested that one of the reasons of poor outcome of cervical cancer to radiation is high TS expression.
Comparison of Spiral-Computed Tomography with Water-Filling of the Stomach and Endosonography for Gastric Lymphoma of Mucosa-Associated Lymphoid Tissue-Type
Authors: Vorbeck Friedrich , Österreicher Christian , Püspök Andreas , Dragosics Brigitte , Fiebiger Wolfgang , Chott Andreas , Raderer Markus
Published: April 2003

Background: Endosonography has been reported as the method of choice for local staging of patients with gastric lymphoma of mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT)-type. As endosonography is still restricted to specialized centers, we have investigated the use of spiral computed tomography of the abdomen with water-filling of the stomach (hydro-spiral CT) for enhanced contrast in patients with gastric lymphoma. Patients and Methods: Patients with a histological verified diagnosis of gastric lymphoma of MALT-type were included in this prospective series. All patients underwent routine staging procedures including endosonography of the upper GI-tract carried out by a single individual. In addition, patients were subjected to hydro-spiral CT either before or after endosonography within a maximal time span of 4 weeks. Results of hydro-spiral CT were compared to those of the endosonographic evaluation and histological work-up of biopsy specimens. Results: A total of 14 patients with primary gastric lymphoma of MALT-type (3 with a high-grade component) were studied prospectively. All patients underwent hydro-spiral CT before initiation of treatment, and 2 patients were also studied following chemotherapy. In the pretherapeutic setting, hydro-spiral CT identified gastric lymphoma in 8 patients, while a false negative result was seen in 6 patients. In addition, the localization of the lymphoma within the stomach was divergent between CT and endosonography in 1 patient. In the 2 patients who were also studied after therapy, CT showed unchanged thickening of the stomach wall in spite of normalization in the endosonographic assessment as well as the histologic evaluation. Conclusion: Our results demonstrate the superiority of endosonography over hydro-spiral CT for the staging and follow-up of patients with gastric lymphoma, who should therefore be managed at centers where endosonography is available.
The Rectum: A Window to Irritable Bowel Syndrome?
Authors: Coremans G. , Azpiroz F. , Collins S. , Dapoigny M. , Müller-Lissner S.A. , Pace F. , Smout A. , Stockbrügger R.W. , Whorwell P.J.
Published: April 2003

This report summarizes current concepts and information gathered to date about the rectum in the irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) that were presented at the 10th meeting of IBiS Club held in Leuven, Belgium. A working group of experts in the field of IBS discussed whether the rectum or the whole colon is the better site to test in IBS patients and provided suggestions for a number of areas where further advances are required.
Evaluating Geometric Accuracy of Multi-Platform Stereotactic Neuroimaging in Radiosurgery
Authors: Wu T.H. , Lee J.S. , Wu H.M. , Chu W.F. , Guo W.Y.
Published: April 2003

We used a spherical phantom to evaluate geometric accuracy in multi-platform stereotactic neuroimaging for radiosurgery. The phantom consisted of two plastic 16-cm-diameter hemispheres in which an exchangeable 8-cm plastic functional cube was incorporated. The functional cube contained cylinder and point targets. The targets were filled with a mixed aqueous solution of 2-mM copper sulfate and 300-mg/ml iodinated contrast medium and were visible on both MR and X-ray images. Two MR scanners and a biplane X-ray angio-suite were used to scan the phantom stereotactically in two sessions of the experiment. The angio-suite was equipped with digital subtraction and distortion-correction software. The resulting stereotactic images were transferred to a dose-planning computer for length measurement and coordinate determination of the targets. The mean errors of the measured cylinder length on distortion non-corrected X-ray stereotactic images were 0.24 ± 0.14 and 0.73 ± 0.10 mm, respectively, in the experiments; on distortion-corrected images 0.22 ± 0.10 and 0.35 ± 0.39 mm. They were 0.50 ± 0.24, 0.25 ± 0.19 and 0.49 ± 0.34, 0.23 ± 0.25 mm, respectively, of the two MR scanners. The mean errors of coordinate determination of point targets between the stereotactic MR and the distortion-corrected X-ray images were 0.70 ± 0.18, 0.52 ± 0.22 and 0.76 ± 0.25, 0.40 ± 0.10 mm, respectively, in the experiments. We found that the overall geometric errors of target delineation between stereotactic MR and X-ray images were in the submillimeter range. The current study validates the multi-platform and multi-facility stereotactic neuroimaging practice and ensures imaging accuracy in radiosurgery.
Different IgE Reactivity Profiles in Birch Pollen-Sensitive Patients from Six European Populations Revealed by Recombinant Allergens: An Imprint of Local Sensitization
Authors: Movérare Robert , Westritschnig Kerstin , Svensson Margareta , Hayek Brigitte , Bende Mats , Pauli Gabrielle , Sorva Ritva , Haahtela Tari , Valenta Rudolf , Elfman Lena
Published: April 2003

Background: Sensitivity to birch pollen allergens is a common feature among European patients with seasonal pollen allergy. In this in vitro study, we examined the specific serum IgE binding profiles to individual birch pollen allergens in birch-sensitive patients from six European populations. Methods: The study included 242 patients from Finland, Sweden, Austria, France, Switzerland and Italy. All suffered from seasonal rhinoconjunctivitis and/or asthma. Their sera were analyzed for specific IgE reactivity to individual birch pollen allergens (recombinant Bet v 1, Bet v 2 and Bet v 4) and natural birch pollen extract using Pharmacia CAP System™ and immunoblotting. Results: Almost all Finnish, Swedish and Austrian sera contained IgE specific for Bet v 1 (≧98%). Bet v 1-specific IgE antibodies were found in 90% of the French sera, and in 65 and 62% of the sera from Switzerland and Italy, respectively. Few Finnish (2%) and Swedish (12%) patients had IgE to Bet v 2, while Bet v 2 reactivity was more common in the other populations (20–43%). Reactivity to Bet v 4 was rare in all populations (5–11%) except for the Italian patients, in whom 3 of 11 sera were positive (27%). The immunoblot results supported the specific IgE profiles obtained with Pharmacia CAP System showing a broader IgE reactivity profile in patients from central and southern Europe as compared to northern Europe. Conclusion: Component-resolved allergy diagnosis with recombinant allergens reveals that the IgE reactivity profiles to individual birch pollen allergens vary between European populations. This observation may be explained by sensitization to different allergen sources and will have an impact on allergen-specific prevention and therapy strategies.
Nonreceptor Protein Tyrosine and Lipid Phosphatases in Type I Fcε Receptor-Mediated Activation of Mast Cells and Basophils
Authors: Heneberg Petr , Dráber Petr
Published: April 2003

Protein tyrosine and lipid phosphorylations are early and critical events in type 1 FcΕ receptor (FcΕRI)-mediated activation of mast cells and basophils. Tyrosine phosphorylation of FcΕRI subunits as well as other signal transduction molecules reflects the balance between the action of protein tyrosine kinases and phosphatases. Similarly, the phosphate content of inositol phospholipids, involved in the recruitment of signalling molecules to the plasma membrane and the generation of secondary messengers, is the net result of the opposing effects of phosphoinositide kinases and lipid phosphatases. This review summarizes the current understanding of the structural and functional aspects of nonreceptor protein tyrosine phosphatases (SHP-1, SHP-2, HePTP, PTP20, PRL1, PRL2, PTP-MEG1 and PTP-MEG2) and lipid phosphatases (SHIP and SHIP2) in the activation of mast cells and basophils after FcΕRI aggregation. New approaches towards a deeper understanding of the role of phosphatases in mast cell physiology are also discussed.
Phase I Study of Weekly Irinotecan Combined with Weekly Cisplatin in Patients with Advanced Solid Tumors
Authors: Nakanishi Yoichi , Takayama Koichi , Wataya Hiroshi , Izumi Miiru , Minami Takahiro , Takano Koichi , Inoue Koji , Osaki Shin’ichi , Kimotsuki Kanehito , Harada Taishi , Hara Nobuyuki
Published: April 2003

Background: Previous studies have reported a synergistic effect between irinotecan and cisplatin. We have conducted a phase I trial combining these agents to find the optimal dose of irinotecan in combination with a fixed dose of cisplatin. Methods: Patients with advanced solid tumors, aged ≤75 years, performance status ≤2, and adequate organ function were enrolled in this study. They were treated at 4-week intervals with irinotecan plus 20 mg/m2 cisplatin on days 1, 8, and 15. The starting dose of irinotecan of 40 mg/m2 was escalated in 10 mg/m2 increments until a maximum dose of 90 mg/m2 was reached. Results: The recommended dose for phase II studies is 90 mg/m2 of irinotecan and 20 mg/m2 of cisplatin on days 1, 8, and 15. Overall response to the chemotherapy was 35% (95% confidential interval, 19.2–54.6%). Conclusion: This combination seems to be active against lung cancer with acceptable toxicity. A phase II study is now ongoing.
Antimicrobial Action of Nitens® Mouthwash (Cetyltrimethylammonium Naproxenate) on Multiple Isolates of Pharyngeal Microbes: A Controlled Study against Chlorhexidine, Benzydamine, Hexetidine, Amoxicillin, Amoxicillin-Clavulanate, Clarithromycin, and Cefaclor
Authors: Pilloni A.P. , Buttini G. , Giannarelli D. , Giordano B. , Iovene M.R. , Montella F. , di Salvo R. , Colantuono R. , Lalli G. , Tufano M.A.
Published: April 2003

Background: Acute oropharyngeal and respiratory tract infections are due to a wide spectrum of microorganisms. The aim of this study was to compare and evaluate the in vitro activity of four antiseptics (cetyltrimethylammonium naproxenate, chlorhexidine, benzydamine, hexetidine) to four antibiotics (amoxicillin, amoxicillin-clavulanate, clarithromycin, cefaclor) on strains of Haemophilus influenzae, Moraxella catarrhalis, Streptococcus pyogenes and Streptococcus pneumoniae. Methods: Susceptibility tests were performed on 90, aerobic and anaerobic, bacterial strains, isolated from nasopharyngeal swabs and sputum. Minimum inhibitory concentrations (by microdilution) and minimum bactericidal concentrations were determined and compared. Results: Our selected panel of bacteria was highly susceptible to the antiseptics, particularly to chlorhexidine and naproxenate, even more so than two of the most frequently used antibiotics. Data were statistically significant (p < 0.005). Conclusions: In view of their bactericidal and anti-inflammatory properties, these antiseptics may be effective in controlling the transitory colonization of the oral cavity by microbes that cause or worsen disease in patients with mild infections.
Accommodative Function of Eyes in Persons Exposed to Ionizing Radiation
Authors: Sergienko N.M. , Fedirko P.
Published: April 2003

Results of a comparative study of accommodative capability of eyes in individuals exposed to various doses of ionizing radiation and in a control group are presented. The mean values for ranges of accommodation in the control group were consonant with previous data. However, the range of accommodation was found to be reduced in exposed patients from younger age groups. It has been established that the ranges of accommodation depended, besides the age, on the absorbed dose of ionizing radiation: the greater the dose absorbed, the lesser the range of accommodation in the same age group. The effect of ionizing radiation seems to be additive to that of age.
Low Thyroid Hormone Levels Impair the Perinatal Development of the Rat Retina
Authors: Sevilla-Romero Enrique , Muñoz Alberto , Pinazo-Durán M. Dolores
Published: April 2003

Eye development is regulated by multiple agents including hormones and growth factors. Thyroid hormone (triiodothyronine, or T3, and the prohormone thyroxine, or T4) plays a crucial role in the development of the central nervous system. Here we have examined the effects of low T3/T4 levels (hypothyroid status) on the developing rat retina during the perinatal stage. Eyes from control (CG) and T3/T4-deficient (HG) fetuses (E19 and E21) and newborn (P0, P3, P5 and P7) rats were obtained by administering a chemical antithyroid solution (0.02% methyl-mercaptoimidazole +1% ClOK4) in the tap water to the dams and their offspring, from E9 and throughout gestation until they were killed. Perinatal eyes were processed for light and electron transmission microscopy and subjected to morphological and morphometric analyses. Low T3/T4 levels led to decreased retinal growth during the perinatal stage. In addition, the retinas from the HG presented fewer neuroblasts than those of their euthyroid counterparts (at E21: 705 ± 83 cells per constant area of 4 × 104 µm2 vs. 440 ± 60 cells per constant area of 4 × 104 µm2; p = 0.010). During development the index of mitosis in the retina peaked at E21, falling at the end of the 1st postnatal week. Significantly lower values were observed in the HG (at P5: 0.803 ± 0.374 mitoses/cells % vs. 0.349 ± 0.180 mitoses/cells %; p = 0.004). Furthermore, we have found that low T3/T4 levels delayed and/or altered a series of developmental processes occurring in the retina during the perinatal stage such as layering and differentiation of several cell types. Our results demonstrate that thyroid hormone regulates rat neuroretinogenesis.
Kenogen
Authors: Rebora Alfredo , Guarrera Marcella
Published: April 2003

Background: A novel phenomenon has been described by the phototrichogram: the emptiness of the follicle after teloptosis. We called this phenomenon kenogen, from the Greek ĸΕνóς, ‘empty’. Objective: To describe the kenogen phase in its details. Methods: Analysis of the existing literature. Results: The original observation in 2 women was confirmed in 10 balding and non-balding males studied for 14 years in whom kenogen lasted about 4 months increasing up to about 7 months and affecting 80% of all hair cycles. In 2 women with progressing androgenetic alopecia studied for 2 years, kenogen involved 22% of the hair follicles, lasting from 3 months to 1 year. In a prepubertal boy studied for 1 year, it involved 8% of hairs and lasted about 2 months. Conclusion: During kenogen, the hair follicle rests physiologically, but duration and frequency are greater in androgenetic alopecia, possibly accounting for baldness. In addition to the classical cycle, the hair follicle may follow an alternative route during which the telogen phase, not accompanied by a coincident new early anagen, ends with teloptosis leaving the follicle empty.
Giant Seminal Vesicle Stones
Authors: Kilciler Mete , Sağlam Mutlu , Özgök Yaşar , Somuncu İbrahim , Erduran Doğan , Harmankaya Çetin
Published: April 2003

Seminal vesicle stones are rare conditions and only a few cases have been reported in the literature. Here we present 2 cases with single and multiple seminal vesicle calculi.
Cellular and Vascular Reactions in the Liver to Radio-Frequency Thermo-Ablation with Wet Needle Applicators
Authors: Hänsler J. , Neureiter D. , Strobel D. , Müller W. , Mutter D. , Bernatik T. , Hahn E.G. , Becker D.
Published: April 2003

The aim of this animal experiment was to investigate the cellular and vascular reactions in the liver of juvenile domestic pigs produced by a radio-frequency thermoablation (RFTA) applicator perfused with saline solution. Methods: A total of 13 coagulation necroses were produced in the liver of 3 anesthetized domestic pigs using RFTA. The pigs were dissected and the coagulations examined. Results: The mean macroscopical length and width of the coagulation zones with a hemorrhagic marginal zone after a 5-minute application time were 34.1 ± 8 mm (22–46 mm) and 20.8 ± 4 mm (12 ± 28 mm) respectively. The sonographically determined diameters correlated significantly (rlength = 0.741 and rwidth = 0.923). Three areas in the coagulation zones could be histologically distinguished: (1) central necrosis zone, (2) hemorrhagic marginal zone, (3) sublethal damage zone. Large vessels did not show any substantial changes after RFTA. Venous vessels less than 1 mm were completely thermally denatured or destroyed. Conclusions: Tumors in close proximity to large blood vessels can be treated by RFTA with ‘wet electrodes’.
Initiation of CPAP Therapy for OSA: Does Prophylactic Humidification during CPAP Pressure Titration Improve Initial Patient Acceptance and Comfort?
Authors: Wiest G.H. , Harsch I.A. , Fuchs F.S. , Kitzbichler S. , Bogner K. , Brueckl W.M. , Hahn E.G. , Ficker J.H.
Published: April 2003

Background: Heated humidifiers (HH) enable effective treatment of upper airway dryness during nasal continuous positive airway pressure (nCPAP) therapy for obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA), but the role of prophylactic use of HH during the initiation of nCPAP treatment has not been studied so far. Objectives: The aim of the present study was to investigate whether prophylactic HH during the initiation of CPAP would result in improved initial patient comfort and acceptance. Methods: In 44 consecutive, previously untreated OSA patients with no history of upper airway dryness, CPAP titration with and without HH was performed on two consecutive nights in a randomised order. The patients were interviewed after each treatment night in order to establish the comfort of the treatment, and, after the second treatment, they were asked which of the two nights they considered more pleasant, and which treatment they would prefer for long-term use. Results: Following CPAP titration with HH, 32 patients (73%) claimed to have had a better night’s sleep than usual (i.e. without CPAP treatment) compared with 33 patients (75%) saying the same following CPAP treatment without HH. For 21 patients (47.7%) treatment with HH was more pleasant, 23 (52.3%) saw no difference or said that treatment without HH was more pleasant. Nineteen patients (43.2%) gave preference to treatment with HH for long-term use, while 25 patients (56.8%) had no preference or said they would prefer treatment without HH. Conclusions: The use of HH during the initiation phase of CPAP treatment was associated neither with an initial improvement in comfort nor with greater initial treatment acceptance.
Gastroesophageal Reflux and Bronchial Responsiveness: Correlation and the Effect of Fundoplication
Authors: Kiljander Toni O. , M. Salomaa Eija-Riitta , Hietanen Eino K. , Ovaska Jari , Helenius Hans , Liippo Kari
Published: April 2003

Background: A causal relationship between gastroesophageal reflux (GER) and asthma has been suggested. Should this be the case, one could expect treatment of GER to diminish bronchial sensitivity. There has been a lack of trials evaluating the efficacy of antireflux surgery on airway reactivity. Objectives: To investigate the correlation between GER and bronchial responsiveness, and to determine the efficacy of Nissen fundoplication on bronchial responsiveness and pulmonary function. Methods: A methacholine inhalation challenge was performed on 15 consecutive GER patients preoperatively and approximately 5 months after Nissen fundoplication. Airway responsiveness was quantified with a dose-response slope (DRS), calculated by dividing the decrease in FEV1 (%) with the dose of methacholine administered (micromoles). Results: A positive correlation between the severity of distal esophageal reflux and bronchial responsiveness was found (r = 0.83, p < 0.001). There was an improvement in FEV1 after fundoplication (p = 0.03). All 3 asthmatic patients participating in the study presented with bronchial hyperresponsiveness (BHR) which improved clearly in all of these patients after fundoplication. This resulted in an apparent trend for DRS to improve when the entire study population was considered (p = 0.12). Conclusions: According to the current study there seems to be a positive correlation between the severity of distal esophageal reflux and bronchial responsiveness. These data suggest that operative treatment of GER may ameliorate BHR in asthmatic patients. Moreover, the results of the present study suggest that fundoplication may improve pulmonary function in patients with GER.