bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Growth Hormone‐Releasing Hormone and Glucocorticoids Determine the Balance Between Luteinising Hormone (LH) β‐ and LHβ/Follicle‐Stimulating Hormone β‐Positive Gonadotrophs and Somatotrophs in the 14‐Day‐Old Rat Pituitary Tissue in Aggregate Cell Culture
Authors: Pals K. , Roudbaraki M. , Denef C.
Published: March 2008

Fourteen‐day‐old rat pituitary tissue represents an attractive model for studying cell population dynamics, particularly of gonadotrophs. Prolonged three‐dimensional culture in serum‐ and hormone‐free medium causes a striking decline in somatotroph abundance but a several‐fold rise in monohormonal LHβ‐positive cell number, whereas bihormonal gonadotrophs almost disappear. In the present study, we investigated whether these changes are inter‐related by examining the effects of growth hormone‐releasing hormone (GHRH) and glucocorticoids, two protagonist regulators of somatotrophs. Cells were identified by single cell reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) and immunofluorescence. Supplementation of the cultures for 2 weeks with GHRH (1 nm) did not augment the proportion of somatotrophs, but expanded the nonhormonal cell population. GHRH reduced the proportion of monohormonal luteinising hormone (LH)β mRNA positive cells to approximately 50% of control, although the effect was not seen when these cells were visualised by immunostaining. Supplementation of the cultures with dexamethasone (4 nm) for 3 weeks partially rescued LHβ/follicle‐stimulating hormone β cells and fully rescued the GH mRNA cells in parallel with a decline in nonhormonal cell abundance, but strongly reduced bromodeoxyuridine labelling of GH‐immunoreactive cells. As studied by patch‐clamp single cell RT‐PCR at the start of culture, GHRH caused an acute rise in intracellular [Ca2+] in some monohormonal GH cells, but at a higher incidence in cells expressing LHβ mRNA, alone or in combination with GH mRNA and/or pro‐opiomelanocortin (POMC) mRNA. The present data suggest that, in the 14‐day‐old rat pituitary, the majority of GHRH target cells are cells expressing LHβ mRNA alone or in combination with GH and/or POMC mRNA. The data show co‐regulation of gonadotroph and somatotroph population sizes by glucocorticoids and GHRH, with the former preserving bihormonal gonadotrophs and the latter repressing LHβ‐only cell abundance. GHRH may not expand the somatotroph population unless glucocorticoid hormone is present to maintain terminal differentiation.
Extracellular Biotransformation of β‐Endorphin in Rat Striatum and Cerebrospinal Fluid
Authors: Reed B. , Bidlack J. M. , Chait B. T. , Kreek M. J.
Published: March 2008

Numerous studies have investigated the behavioural effects of β‐endorphin, both endogenous and exogenously applied. However, the potential for biotransformation of β‐endorphin in the extracellular space of the brain has not been previously directly addressed in vivo. Utilising microinfusion/microdialysis and matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionisation mass spectrometry, we investigated β‐endorphin biotransformation in the striatum of rats. We infused 1.0 nmol β‐endorphin into the striatum of adult male Fischer rats and observed rapid cleavage resulting in β‐endorphin 1–18, as well as several fragments resulting from further N‐terminal degradation. In vitro studies with incubation of full‐length β‐endorphin, with and without protease inhibitors, in the incubation fluid of isolated striatal slices indicate that β‐endorphin is initially cleaved predominantly at the Phe18‐Lys19, position, as well as at the Leu17‐Phe18 position. Investigations of cerebrospinal fluid revealed similar enzymatic cleavage of β‐endorphin. The observed pattern of cleavage sites (Phe18‐Lys19 and Leu17‐Phe18) is consistent with published in vitro studies of purified insulin‐degrading enzyme cleavage of β‐endorphin. The binding affinities of full‐length β‐endorphin, as well as previously identified β‐endorphin fragments α‐endorphin (β‐endorphin 1–16) and γ‐endorphin (β‐endorphin 1–17), and the fragment identified in the present study, β‐endorphin 1–18, at heterologously expressed μ, δ and κ‐opioid receptors, respectively, were determined; the affinity of the truncation fragments is reduced at each of the receptors compared to the affinity of full length β‐endorphin.
Occupational therapists prefer combining multiple intervention approaches for children with learning difficulties
Authors: Nelson Alison , Copley Jodie , Flanigan Kerry , Underwood Katherine
Published: March 2008

Background/aim:  Research to date has not fully explored how occupational therapists provide intervention for children with learning difficulties in their day‐to‐day practice. The purpose of this study was to provide an in‐depth description of the approaches and techniques used and how they are applied and combined to meet the complex and multifaceted needs of these children.

Methods:  In‐depth interviews and short questionnaires were completed by seven occupational therapists who had provided intervention to children with learning difficulties. Observations of therapy sessions were also conducted. Thematic analysis gained insight into the approaches and techniques therapists used and how these were applied in practice.

Results:  Therapists use a wide range of approaches in various combinations because they feel that these best meet the needs of individual children. Sensory‐based and cognitive approaches were most frequently drawn from and combined with other approaches such as visual information analysis, biomechanical and psychosocial approaches added for particular purposes. Approaches were usually combined simultaneously within an activity or session.

Conclusions:  Therapists create their own ‘multimodel’ approach in order to best meet the needs of their clients. They are able to articulate the theoretical basis behind these choices, although lack of clarity exists about the frames of reference being used.
Statistical studies on 120 cases of facial palsy.
Authors: Kubo Kiyoji , Hikaru Nobuyuki
Published: March 2008

During the past five years (Jan. 1928 to Jul. 1932) we have had 120 cases of facial palsy under our personal observation, of which we wish to publish the results of statistical researches.
Experimentelle Untersuchungen über die Lokalisation der Seh‐ und Hörfunktionen auf der Großhirnrinde des Kaninchens und der Katze.
Authors: Satô Syôdi
Published: March 2008

Das auf Lichteinwirkung erregbore Rindengebiet Das durch Lichteinwirkung erregbare Rindengebiet bei der Katze liegt nach meiner Untersuchung im Gyrus marginalis und im Gyrus Suprasylvius. Seine Ausdehnung reicht nach vorn etwa bis zur Mitte der Längefurche, nach hinten bis zum Okzipitalpol.

Munk untersuchte Hunde mittels der Exstirpationsmethode und kam zu dem Schluß, daß das Sehzentrum des Hundes in einem ausgedehnten Gebiete der Konvexität des Okzipitallappens zu suchen war. Nach ihm schließt das Sehzentrum nämlich folgende Windungszüge ein: Die hintere Hälfte des Gyrus suprasylvius und ectolateralis, und die hintere Ecke des Gyrus ectosylvius.

Brodmonn, Campbell, Minkowski u. a., die alle histologische Untersuchungen anstellten, haben beinahe übereinstimmende Ergebnisse erzielt, nämlich, daß die Area striata im großen und ganzen auf die hintere Hälfte des Gyrus marginalis und des Gyrus suprasplenialis lokalisiert ist. Daß sie also auf dem durch den Sulcus splenialis und den Sulcus lateralis begrenzten Windungsabschnitte nach vorn bis etwa zur Mitte des horizontalen Teiles dieser Gyri reichend liegt. Brodmann behauptet, daß die Grenzen seiner Area striata sich nirgends mit denen der Munkschen Sehsphäre decken. Andererseits soll nach Köppen und Löwenstein das histologische Sehfeld sich auch nur annähernd mit der physiologischen Sehregion nach Munk decken.

Das durch Schalleinwirkung erregbare Rindengebiet bei der Katze.

Beim Kaninchen ist das auf Schalleinwirkung bioelektrische Erscheinungen aufweisende Rindenfeld, wie oben auseinander gesetzt wurde, von viel kleinerer Ausdehnung, als das durch Lichtreize erregbare. Dasselbe gilt auch für die Katze. Ich konnte bei der letzteren nämlich an einem kleinen Feld, welches sich oberhalb des Sulcus sylvius über dem Gyrus suprasylvius und dem Gyrus ectosylvius erstreckt, auf Schalleinwirkung hin Widerstandsänderungen nachweisen. Seine Ausdehnung beträgt etwa 0.5 cm im Durchmesser.

Da die Freilegung der ventrolateralen Hemisphärenfläche mir nicht ohne stärkere Blutung geglückt war, konnte ich die Frage nicht entscheiden, ob auch an jener Rindenfläche sensorische Felder lokalisiert sind oder nicht. Bringt doch selbst die kleine Blutung an der Rindenfläche die Beurteilung der Experimente zum Wanken.
STUDIES OX THE FUNCTIONS AND FIRER CON‐NECTIONS OF THE AMYGDALOID NUCLEI AND PERIAMYGDALOID CORTEX. EXPERIMENT ON THE RESPIRATORY MOVEMEIVTTS (I).
Authors: Koikegarni Haruymhi , Fuse Shigeaki
Published: March 2008

Through electrical stimulation of a delimited part of the amygdaloid nuclei remarkable change in respiratory movements was recognized in the cat and rabbit. The change is typified in diminution of amplitude and increase in the rate of respiration. Sometimes apnoea was seen at the beginning of stimulation. Experiments ascertained that these phenomena resulted by merit of the neuronal transmission through stria terminalis upon the respiratory cent‐r in hypothalamus. By dissections of the stimulated animals it was found that the lung exhibited in all cases many flecks of hemorrhage. In general, change was more pronounced in the stimulated side of the lung than in the opposite side. Through injection of aqueous solution of sodium glutaminate we could obtain also a peculiar change in respiratory movements, dissection showing unusually severe damage in the lung.
COMPARATIVE‐ANATOMICAL STUDIES ON THE AMYGDALOID COMPLEX IN MAMMALS, ESPECIALLY IN UNGVLATA
Authors: Fukuchi Seiya
Published: March 2008

The amygdaloid complex of Ungulata is not so well developed in comparison with that of Carnivora, but a more or less high degree of differentiation than in Rodents, especially in the nucleus T, which likely comes out from the cortical element during the early embryonal period. Cells of this nucleus have a tendency in the adult to get segregated in small glomerulus‐like groups, especially prominent in the cow. Another nuclei T' and M of amygdala proper are also well developed. But the central and medial nuclei E and D appear rather underdeveloped in comparison with those of Rodents. Although the small‐celled nucleus K is generally well developed and separated in numerous groups, the correspondent to the nucleus intercalatus of Rodents can not be detected in Ungulata. The degree of differentiation of periamygdaloid cortex is rather advanced as it is divisible here into 3 parts, PA1, PAi and Pam, very likely corresponding to Pam1, Pam2 and Pam3 of Rose respectively. The nucleus B is here completely separated from the cortex Pam PAi of the horse is complicated in its cellular architecture as it is divisible into two subdivisions. In the cow the whole extept of periamygdaloid cortex is complicated as in the nucleus T, both showing glomerulus‐like cell‐islets. If these complicated features speak for the advanced degree of differentiation of this region with its functional significance parallel going, then the cow or bull might be most developed among the animals concerned, then follow the goat, horse and pig in developmental order downwards. In accordance with the classification in taxology in Ruminantia (cow and goat) and Non‐Ruminantia (pig) of Archiodactyla and in Perissodactyla (horse), the cytoarchitectural patterns are each characteristic in these three groups. As to the fiber connection of the amygdaloid complex, the author has treated several fiber bundles of relatively well recognizable make‐up. Their exact origin and termination have however to be determined by experimental investigation later on. In fact there must be numerous and complicated fibers hitherto untouched by the authors. Indication lies here in this study of Ungulata as it introduced several fiber bundles hitherto unkndwn, seemingly favored by larger form of brains studied. Concerning the islet‐like groups of cells in the cow and goat, the author could not detect any specific fibrous characters even through application of certain axon‐staining method, except that of compactly arranged capsule‐like fibers. The assumption that the amygdala stands so intimately in relation with the cerebral cortex as the thalamus, or that it represents a vegetative centre or that it belongs to the extrapyramidal system, seems to be far from being entirely groundless as far as it concerns with the above mentioned anatomical investigation, but the lack of verification in experimental way leaves things to be entrusted to future researches.
ON A FAMILIAL OCCURRENCE CASE OF TUBEROUS SCLEROSIS
Authors: Endo Koh
Published: March 2008

Familial occurrence of tuberous sclerosis belongs to rareness with its hereditary pattern still undefinable yet Author's brother‐sister case came from father seemingly suffering from abortive type of tuberous sclerosis.
MENINGIOMAS OF THE LATERAL VENTRICLES OF THE BRAIN
Authors: Huang Yun Shang
Published: March 2008

Five cases of meningiomas of the lateral ventricles are reported in this paper. And a brief survey of the frequency of such meningiomas as compared with all intraventricular tumors is given (11.67–57.32%). As regards the lateralization, the meningiomas in question occur, at least, twice as frequently on the left side as on the right side; the confidence interval of the ratio between the right‐sided and the left‐sided being 8.37–47.55%. Symptoms of such tumors are not uniform and even the ventriculography may fail to yield any information about the tumor. But when a tumor of the lateral ventricle is suspected, particularly on the left side, a meningioma should be considered as a diagnosis of likelihood. Histopat‐hologically, the tumor may take any type common to intracranial meningiomas of other localizations.
EFFECT OF ANTIEPILEPTIC DRUGS ON THE ACETYLCHOLINE METABOLISM OF THE BRAIN
Authors: Terayama Koichi
Published: March 2008

A comparative study in vitro was made on the effect of some antiepileptic drugs upon the Ach metabolism in mouse's brain. The drugs employed for the experiment were 5 phenyl‐5‐ethyl‐barbituric acid (phecobarital) and 5.5‐diphenylhydavtoin (aleviatin), effective against grand mal type of epilepsy, and 3.5, Strimethyl‐oxazolidine ‐2.4‐dione (mkoaleviatin, an effectivum against petit mal type. The purpose was to contribute something elucidating for the mechanism of epilepsy biochemically. ChE activity was examined by the use of homogenate, and Ach sycthesis by the use of slices of brain tissue.

The effect upon ChE activity was slightly inhibitory. A tendency reverse in nature was found between the effectiva against grand mal type and that against petit mal type. The result of the joint application of two kinds of drugs was approximately the same as that in the single application of the more effective drug, as far as the inhibitory aspect is concerned.

As to the effect upon Ach synthesis, the anti‐grand mal type agents at low concentration rate returned always acceleration, at as high rate as 4 mM per liter, apparent inhibition of a ratio at 16% against the control rate; whereas anti‐petit mal type agent gave at low concentration rate again inhibition in a ratio of 70 60%, at 4 mM per liter 106% against the control case. At rates higher than that, inhibition became intensified, for instance of the maximum title, as high as 45% at 30mM per liter. Thereby, drugs inhered with acceleration at low concentration rate turned inhibitory by joint use of other agents.

As the drugs with selective therapeutic effect each upon grand mal type resp. petit mal type proved to work quite different upon Ach metabolism of the brain, the biochemical aspect of epilepsy were discussed in the light of the newly established data, with a few problems for the future mentioned by the way.
HISTAMINE EFFECT UPON THE SYMPTOMS OF LSD25* INTOXICATION
Authors: Yamada Toshiji , Takumi Akira
Published: March 2008

Histamine was injected intravenously to nine subjects developing the florid LSD symptoms. It was found that in seven of nine cases the symptoms went inhibited markedly by merit of histamine.

The changes in the LSD symptoms under that circumstance were described concretely. On the basis of the results obtained, standard of dose and epoch of histamine usage necessary for obtaining the expected effect was discussed.

The inhibitory effect of histamine upon LSD reaction fell very much similar to that of the succinate and the nicotinic acid. In conclusion it is supposed that three drugs shall display their action ultimately in the realm of functional metabolism of the nervous tissues through a common effecting course.
TEE PATHOGENESIS OF EPILEPTIC SEIZIJRE
Authors: Kurosawa Ryoeuke , Hattori Hisashi , Wakoh Toshihisa
Published: March 2008

Registering EEG in epileptics, we measured in parallel the electrolytes in the serum before and after hyperventilation. When the EEG did not show any abnormality during hyperventilation or showed the same abnormality before and during hyperventilation, Na went increased and K went decreased. On the contrary, when the violent discharge was observed at the first times of hyperventilation, Na went decreased and K went increased. The same change was also observable in case of a spontaneus seizure. From these data it may well be assumable that the violent discharge would regularly be accompanied by the outflux of K; namely, a seizure would be the outflux of overladen potassium from the tissue.
STUDIES ON SYNTONIZATION“VOLTAGE IN THE ELECTROMYOGRAM. (1) CHARACTERISTICS OF”SYNTONIZATION“VOLTAGE
Authors: Yoshii Naossburo , Saito Ichiro
Published: March 2008

The authors have analyzed the intervals and the standard deviations of characteristic double‐spikes appearing in the EMGs led from the bindlimb muscles such as the gastrocnemius of normal dogs, of anterior‐ or lateral‐funicle‐sectioned dogs as well as normal rabbits, and it is ascertained that the double‐spikes obtained are neither the “crossing‐away” discharges of two distinct NMUs, nor the double discharges of one and the same NMU, nor “doublets” as reported by Landau, and that this is evidently due to two NMUs discharging in certain correlation to each other. This pattern is named syntonization, and its characteristic, different from those of other apparently similar double spikes, are:

The syntonization voltage consists of two single‐spikes of two distinct NMUs, and it can be seen that a long record consists of two parts, namely, the one part in which syntonized spikes appear in succession (designated as “S” in Fig. 1B) and the other in which two series of single spikes, “p” and “q” appear alternately (“PQ” in Fig. 1E). The apparent spike interval (m) in the latter case is about half as much as that of the former.

In the part of successive single spikes (“PQ”), the ratto of average interval (m) to standard deviation (a), i. e. the s̀/m value is greater than in normal NMU‐discharges. On the contrary, if these spikes are regarded as produced by alternate dischargz of two distinct NMUs (p and q) and the rzspective s̀/m values are calculated of p‐ and q‐series, both of these valus approximate to s̀/m value at that part of syntonized spikes.

Syntonization voltages appear at an interval of between 100 and 170 milliseconds (in the gastrocnemius muscles of dogs and rabbits).

When the passive muscle stretch is exerted appropriately weakened, spike discharges become syntonized (EMG record “S”), and when it is intensified, each component of the double‐spikes are separated from each other (EMG record “PQ”).

Simultaneous recording through two electrodes from adj acent two points in a muscle may show the syntonization pattern of two NMUs from one lead and a train of single spikes of one NMU participating in the production of the syntonization, coincidently appearing with the syntonization voltages, from the other.
ACTION OF CHLORPROMAZINE ON THE RESPI‐RATORY SYSTEM OF GUINEA‐PIG BRAIN CELL‐FREE PREPARATIONS*
Authors: Kurokawa M. , Naruse H. , Kato M. , Yabe T. , Haba R.
Published: March 2008

The effects of chlorpromazine on respiration of guinea‐pig brain homogenates and mitochondrial preparations were studied.

Chlorpromazine exerts biphasic effect on cytochrome c oxidase system, inhibition and stimulation of oxygen uptake in high (over 10 ‐4 M) and low (below 10‐4 M) concentrations respectively.

Succinic dehydrogenase activity is also inhibited by chlarproma zine. Here the stimulatory effect of the drug has not been observed.

The inhibition of chlorpromazine on succinic dehydrogenase system can be protected and reactivated by several sulfhydryl reagents.

ATP alone does not restore the chlorpromazine‐inhibited enzyme activity (with pyruvate and fumarate as substrates), but if sulfhy dryl reagents co‐exist with ATP, significant restoration is observed. The suggestion was made that chlorpromazine may act on SH‐linkage of the respiratory enzymes.
ANTIGEN‐ANTIBODY REACTION PROVED IN SCHIZOPHRENIC PATIENTS‘ SPERM
Authors: Oikawa Susumu
Published: March 2008

1. Fresh sperm and DNP of spermic source from long‐standing schizophrenic patients were injected intravenously into rabbits to prepare anti‐serum. Intracutaneous reaction, precipitation reaction, and complement fixation reaction were performed with the said serum on mental patients and normal subject.

2. In case of intracutaneous reaction, local rubor became the most extensive after 8–16 hours of injection. A reaction took place in schizophrenic patients especially potently. In anti‐serum cases against fresh sperm, significant differences were observed between reactions in schizophrenic group and normal group. In anti‐serum cases against spermic DNP there were also perceived significant differences between reactions in schizophrenic group and manic‐depressive psychosis, general paresis, psychoneurosis, toxic psychosis as well as normal group.

3. There were observable no remarkable differences between sexes in cases of intracutaneous reaction.

4. Precipitation reaction was performed between anti‐serum and both sperma exsudate and serum of schizophrenics, manic‐depressive psychosis and normal subject. There was hardly any difference between schizophrenia and manic‐depressive psychosis, but schizophrenia and manic‐depressives showed a little stronger reaction than the normal subject. Neither, it reacted with any serum.

5. Complement fixation reactions were made between anti‐serum and both sperma exsudate and serum of schizophrenics, manic‐depressive psychosis and normal subject. As the result, anti‐serum reacted strongly with every sperma exsudates, though there were obtained no findings specific to schizophrenia. Also, there the reaction failed to occur between anti‐serum and every sera samples.
L'AMNÉSIE RÉTROGRADE APRÈS LA CURE D‘ÉLECTROCHOC
Authors: Yamashita Kiyoshi Suzuki et Fumio , Séki Nobuo
Published: March 2008

Voici les particularités de l'amnésie observée chez trois schizophrènes qui avaient subi la cure de l'électro‐choc, deux fois par semaine.

Cette amnésie débuta sans inquiétude après la cure.

Elle rétrogradait jusqu'à une huitaine d'années, méme à plus de dix ans précédant le début de la maladie. Pendant ce temps, les malades étaient sains.

L'objet de cette amnésie était total sans File de mémoire ni celle d'oubli.

Cette amnésie manquait d'antérogradation.

Elle n'était pas accompagnée de fabulation.

Les malades s'orientaient toujours correctement.

Ils continuaient sérieusement de tâcher le remplissement d'amnésie.

La structure de cette amnésie est différente de celle du syndrome de Korsakow, mais elle ressemble à celle d'après la cure de Sakel. Nous pensons done que cette amnésie fut provoquée par la cure de l'électro‐choc.
CORTICAL AND SUBCORTICAL SEIZURE DISCHARGE INDUCED BY BITEMPORAL ELECTROSHOCK IN CAT
Authors: Miyasaka Matué
Published: March 2008

Bitemporal and bifrontal electroshock (AC.50 cps., threshold voltage, 2 sec.) was applied to twenty five curarized cats, and the pattern of the induced seizure discharge and their regional correlation were studied in the neo‐, paleo‐ (amygdala), archicortex (hippocampus) and subcortical structures. No essential difference of the seizure activity was seen between both electroshock procedures.

The seizure activity has tendency to originate in the neocortex (especially in the sensorimotor cortex), and also in the archicortex, but not in the subcortical structures.

The seizure discharge in phylogenetically different three cortices often reveals a clear dissociation in the initiation, spreading and termination, together with difference in frequency and voltage.

The seizure discharge in the subcortical structures shows closely related activities to the functionally intimate cortex: thalamus and caudate to neocortex; anterior part of hypothalamus and globus pallidus to paleocortex (amygdala); posterior part of hypothalamus and septal region to archicortex (hippocampus).

The most important role of the hippocampus in electroshock treatment was discussed.
LSD‐25, MESCALINE INDUCED PSYCHOSIS AND CATECHOL AMINE METABOLISM
Authors: Sakamoto Kenji
Published: March 2008

In 1954, Hoffer et al.1)prepared adrenochrome and administrated it to themselves and to other volunteers. They found that it produces the most powerful pseudo‐schizophrenic sydromes yet described, far more closely resembling an actual psychosis than any of other hallucinogenes. In an individual under the influence of adrenohrome, the insight into his own mental changes is completely lost. In addition Szatmai, Hoffer and Schneider2)reported that intravenous administration of adrenochrome increased the E.E.G. abnormality of deteriorated epileptic patients. More recently, they added to the above fact that adrenolutine had same kind of effect. 3)The agents are considered to be “in vivo” substances and adrenaline derivatives. Thereupon, Hoffer1)offered a hypothesis asserting that, in the schizophrenic patients under stress, the quantity of adrenaline in the body is increased, while these might be turned into adrenochrome or some similar substances.
VENTRICULOLYMPHANGIOSTOMY*
Authors: Yokoyama Ikuzo , Aoki Hideo , Tatebayashi Kinichiro , Hirai Tatsuo , Matsumoto Tetsuo , Fukushima Tadashi
Published: March 2008

A new operative method, ventriculolymphangiostomy, intending to drain intraventricular fluid into the thoracic duct was devised. The operative technique consisted of the communication between the lateral ventricle and the thoracic duct at the level of the 9th thoracal vertebra with the aid of a vinyl tube.

The new shunting operation was applied to three patients for the purpose of treating hydrocephalus obstructivus. After the operation the shunting route was demonstrated to be functioning without any severe complications, but obstructed in all the patients within a relatively short period of time, probably in the course of one to two weeks after operation. The occlusion was disclosed to be attributed to the connective tissue proliferation in the thoracic duct.

Our clinical experiences and the results of our experimental studies on the thoracic ducts of living dogs showed that the chief fault of our shunting operation might be the connective tissue proliferation in the recipient place for internal drainage, i. e. an irritative effect of the inserted vinyl tube.

It should be necessary to search for a tube with minimal irritative effect, when used in establishing the shunting route, in order to obtain its persistent patency.
Intragenic deletions in thedystrophingene in 211 Pakistani Duchenne muscular dystrophy patients
Authors: Hassan Muhammad J , Mahmood Saqib , Ali Ghazanfar , Bibi Nazia , Waheed Ishrat , Rafiq Muhammad A , Ansar Muhammad , Ahmad Wasim
Published: March 2008

Background:Deletions of single or multiple exonic regions within thedystrophingene can be detected using current molecular methods in approximately 65% of the patients with X‐linked recessive neuromuscular disorder, Duchenne/Becker muscular dystrophy (DMD/BMD). Population‐based variations in frequency and distribution ofdystrophingene deletions have been reported in DMD/BMD patients. In the present study, the first in the Pakistani population, frequency and distribution of deletions of 18 exons clustered in two hot spots within the dystrophin gene in 211 unrelated DMD patients were analyzed.

Methods:A total of 211 patients suffering from DMD were ascertained, and intragenic deletions within thedystrophingene were detected on polymerase chain reaction amplification of the genomic DNA using 18 primer sets clustered within two major deletion hot spots. lovd v.1.1.0 software from the Leiden Muscular Dystrophy website has been used to predict in‐frame and out‐of‐frame deletions.

Results:Intragenic deletions were detected in 86 patients (40.75%): 35 patients (40.69%) had deletions within the proximal hot spot, and 51 patients (59.30%) had deletions confined to the distal deletion hot spot of the dystrophin gene. The most frequently deleted exons were 50, 6, 47, 13 and 52 with deletion frequencies of 15.11%, 12.79%, 10.46%, 8.13%, and 4.65%, respectively. lovd v.1.1.0 predicted out‐of‐frame deletions in 67 DMD patients and in‐frame deletions in 19 DMD patients.

Conclusions:The observed proportion of intragenic deletions in the Pakistani population is relatively low, which is comparable with most of the Asian data. Also, deletions in 67 patients (77.9%) are in agreement with the frame‐shift rule.
Is Helicobacter pylori related to endothelial dysfunction during childhood?
Authors: Coskun Senol , Kasirga Erhun , Yilmaz Ozge , Bayindır Petek , Akil Ipek , Yuksel Hasan , Polat Muzaffer , Sanlidag Tamer
Published: March 2008

Background: Helicobacter pylori infection has been proposed to have a role in the development of atherosclerosis preceded by endothelial dysfunction. The aim of the present study was to determine if a relationship exists between H. pylori infection in childhood and endothelial dysfunction and level of high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein (hsCRP).

Methods: Between October 2003 and November 2004, 28 subjects who were anti‐H. pylori IgG‐positive and 25 who were anti‐H. pylori IgG‐negative were included in the study. Mean ages of the H. pylori‐positive and negative groups were not significantly different. Endothelial functions were evaluated on Doppler ultrasonography of the brachial artery. Percent ratio of the change in systolic diameter during hyperemic phase to the basal diameter was evaluated. Each subject’s serum was tested for hsCRP, homocysteine and lipids.

Results: Percent ratio of the change in systolic diameters during hyperemic phase to the basal diameter was not significantly different between the H. pylori‐negative and ‐positive groups (P > 0.29). Mean levels of hsCRP were also not significantly different (1.48 ± 1.8 g/dL vs 2.35 ± 3.33 g/dL; P > 0.24). Similarly, serum levels of lipids and homocysteine were not significantly different (P > 0.05 for all lipids).

Conclusions: Non‐invasive techniques used in the present study were not indicative of early findings of atherosclerosis in H. pylori infection during childhood. Further studies are required to evaluate the relationship between early endothelial dysfunction and H. pylori infection in children with cardiovascular risk factors.
Juvenile idiopathic arthritis profile in Turkish children
Authors: Yilmaz Mustafa , Kendirli Seval G. , Altıntas Derya U. , Karakoc Gulbin B. , Inal Ayfer , Kılıc Mehmet
Published: March 2008

Background: Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is a heterogeneous group of disorders. Publications from different countries point to differences in the disease manifestation of JIA among different populations. The aim of the present paper was to evaluate the clinical and laboratory features of JIA in Turkish children.

Methods: A total of 196 JIA patients who fulfilled International League of Associations for Rheumatology (ILAR) diagnostic criteria were included in this retrospective study. The data collected were age, gender, age at disease onset and at diagnosis, and follow‐up duration. Antinuclear antibody (ANA), rheumatoid factor (RF), and human leukocyte antigen B‐27 were evaluated for each patient.

Results: There were 102 boys and 94 girls with a mean duration of disease of 4.1 years. The mean age at the first visit was 8.8 years, and the mean age at onset of disease was 6.8 years (range, 8 months–15 years). Polyarticular JIA was the most frequent onset type (37.2%). Other subtypes included oligoarthritis (34.2%), systemic arthritis (15.3%), psoriatic arthritis (1%), enthesitis‐related arthritis (9.7%), and other arthritis (2.2%). ANA was positive in 28 patients (14.2%). Chronic uveitis occurred in two patients with oligoarthritis; and two patients with enthesitis‐related arthritis had acute uveitis. Three patients (1.4%) developed amyloidosis.

Conclusion: Compared to reports from Western countries, remarkably different features of JIA were found in Turkish children, which included higher frequency of polyarticular JIA, higher prevalence among boys, lower rate of ANA positivity and uveitis. Further studies are required to understand how genetic and environmental differences affect JIA expression.
Are long physician working hours harmful to patient safety?
Authors: Ehara Akira
Published: March 2008

Background: Pediatricians of Japanese hospitals including not only residents but also attending physicians work long hours, and 8% work for >79 h per week. Most of them work consecutively for ≥32 h when they are on call. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of long work hours on patient safety.

Methods: The electronic databases MEDLINE and EMBASE to searched identify the English‐ and Japanese‐language literature for studies on work hours, medical errors, patient safety, and malpractice for years 1966–2005. Studies that analyzed the relationship between physician work hours and outcomes directly related to patient safety were selected.

Results: Seven studies met the criteria. Four studies suggest that reduction of work hours has a favorable effect on patient safety indicators. In the other three studies no significant changes of the indicators were observed, but no report found that shorter work hours were harmful to patient safety.

Conclusion: Decrease of physician work hours is not harmful but favorable to patient safety.
Red blood cell scintigraphy in children with acute massive gastrointestinal bleeding
Authors: Lee Jung , Lai Ming‐Wei , Chen Chien‐Chang , Chen Shih‐Yen , Chao Hsun‐Chin , Chan Sheng‐Chieh , Kong Man‐Shan
Published: March 2008

Background: The main topic of the current review is the usefulness of technetium‐99m‐labeled red blood cell scintigraphy (99mTc RBC scan) in children with acute massive gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding.

Methods: The medical records of pediatric patients who experienced massive GI bleeding and who underwent 99mTc RBC scanning between November 1991 and December 2004 were reviewed and analyzed retrospectively.

Results: The study included 22 patients who underwent 23 99mTc RBC scans. The scans were usually performed after other diagnostic tests failed to locate the bleeding. The diagnostic sensitivity of the scans was nine out of 23 (39.1%). The test demonstrated a positive scan within the first 2 h in six patients, and three patients had positive results at 24 h. The locations of the lesions identified on scanning and surgical investigation were highly correlated in patients with a positive scan within 2 h.

Conclusions: The 99mTc RBC scan is a sensitive, albeit non‐specific, method for detecting GI bleeding. The location of a lesion as indicated by a positive scan within 2 h is helpful for guiding surgical intervention and angiography, although a definitive diagnosis should be made with other methods, particularly laparotomy.
Effect of different doses of vitamin D on osteocalcin and deoxypyridinoline in preterm infants
Authors: Kislal Fatih M. , Dilmen Ugur
Published: March 2008

Background: Metabolic bone disease of prematurity is a common problem in preterm infants. The aim of the present paper was to measure the effect of vitamin D, in order to see the relation between vitamin D and urinary excretion of deoxypyridinoline (DPD), serum osteocalcin (OC), calcium (Ca), inorganic phosphorus (P), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP).

Methods: Three different doses of vitamin D, 200 IU/kg (group 1, 11 infants), 400 IU/kg (group 2, 15 infants) and 800 IU/kg bodyweight/day (group 3, 11 infants), were administered to a total of 37 preterm infants between 15th day of birth until the 30th day of birth.

Results: There were no significant differences in levels of serum Ca and P before and after vitamin D supplementation in all groups. Serum ALP levels were increased in all but significantly only in groups 1 and 3. Serum OC levels were also increased in each group by the treatment. Urinary DPD excretion was increased gradually by the increase in vitamin D intake, but it was significant only in group 3.

Conclusion: High dose of vitamin D supplementation might accelerate bone turnover and increased urinary DPD levels might reflect increased bone resorption. To the best of the authors’ knowledge this is the first study comparing the effects of different vitamin D dose, by the means of urinary collagen cross‐links, on bone turnover in preterm infants.
Effect of interleukin‐2 and tumor necrosis factor‐α on osteopontin: molecular function and biological process
Authors: Wiwanitkit Viroj
Published: March 2008

Background: Biliary atresia (BA) is the most common cause of neonatal cholestasis. Recently it was reported that osteopontin (OPN) expression by human bile duct epithelial cells in culture was responsive to interleukin‐2 (IL‐2) and tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α). This might be an important part in the pathogenesis of BA, but the function of IL‐2 and TNF‐α in OPN expression is not well understood.

Methods: A new gene ontology technology was used to predict the molecular function and biological process of the effect of IL‐2 and TNF‐α on OPN.

Results: Using GoFigure server, the molecular function and biological process of the effect of IL‐2 and TNF‐α on OPN is predicted. Compared to IL‐2, TNF‐α and OPN, the IL‐2–TNF‐α–OPN combination has more functions.

Conclusion: The IL‐2–TNF‐α–OPN combination presents many more functions including positive regulation of osteoclast and response to virus. IL‐2 and TNF have a synergistic effect on OPN expression.
THE ECONOMIC CAUSES OF OBESITY: A SURVEY
Authors: Rosin Odelia
Published: March 2008

Abstract Obesity rates have increased dramatically over the last 30 years. Rising obesity has developed into a considerable worldwide public health problem with significant economic and social consequences. Accordingly, obesity has become a subject of economic research. This paper provides a broad survey of the recent and growing economic literature on the causes of obesity. The literature, both theoretical and empirical, overall aims to explain the rising obesity trend and to identify the factors that contribute to obesity. Also surveyed are non‐economic causes and consequences of obesity and the interconnection with economic influences. An understanding of the causes of obesity allows policies to be considered that might stem the global increase in obesity.
Obesity and obstructive sleep apnea‐hypopnea syndrome
Authors: De Sousa A. G. P. , Cercato C. , Mancini M. C. , Halpern A.
Published: March 2008

Obstructive sleep apnea‐hypopnea syndrome involves recurring episodes of total obstruction (apnea) or partial obstruction (hypopnea) of airways during sleep. Obstructive sleep apnea‐hypopnea syndrome affects mainly obese individuals and it is defined by an apnea‐hypopnea index of five or more episodes per hour associated with daytime somnolence. In addition to anatomical factors and neuromuscular and genetic factors, sleep disorders are also involved in the pathogenesis of sleep apnea. Obesity affects upper airway anatomy because of fat deposition and metabolic activity of adipose tissue. Obstructive sleep apnea‐hypopnea syndrome and metabolic syndrome have several characteristics such as visceral obesity, hypertension and insulin resistance. Inflammatory cytokines might be related to the pathogenesis of sleep apnea and metabolic syndrome. Sleep apnea treatment includes obesity treatment, use of equipment such as continuous positive airway pressure, drug therapy and surgical procedures in selected patients. Currently, there is no specific drug therapy available with proven efficacy for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea‐hypopnea syndrome. Body‐weight reduction results in improvement of sleep apnea, and obesity treatment must be emphasized, including lifestyle changes, anti‐obesity drugs and bariatric surgery.
N.S.W. REGIONAL GROUP
Authors: Anderson Sir John
Published: March 2008

During the visit to Sydney of Sir John Anderson in December, 1950, he was entertained at dinner by the N.S.W. Regional Group. We print below excerpts from the speeches delivered on the occasion.
THE IDEA OF A PROMOTIONS APPEAL SYSTEM
Authors: Byrt W. J.
Published: March 2008

“The Public Utility did not have a formal Appeals Board system in the form which had been adopted by a number of other government organisations in Australia. Over the years, however, the procedure had been established that senior employees who had been superseded could appeal to the Executive Committee.”

“A striking feature of civil service mores is an apparently widely‐held belief that special protection must be provided in public service not only against political influence in appointments, but also against what is called ‘internal patronage’. By this is meant protection against arbitrariness, nepotism, and favouritism, all alleged in some quarters to be inherently characteristic of the managerial and supervisory ranks of the public service. The present role of the Civil Service Commission as protector of the individual employee in questions of transfer, promotion and salary increments derives from this fear, and from the belief that intervention of an independent authority is necessary to ensure preferment on the basis of merit.

“No convincing evidence has been found that any special factors distinguish the public service from other employment in this respect. Consequently, it cannot be concluded that civil servants need special protective machinery which employees outside the public service do not have. Moreover, there is an impressive array of evidence that the procedures and machinery created to prevent internal patronage have imposed upon the public service a very high cost in terms of delay, unfilled positions, poor selection of personnel, and generai frustration of responsible supervisors.”
SCIENCE, THE WORKFORCE AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION*
Authors: Dunbar R. E.
Published: March 2008

The change in the organization of work with advancing technology thus has important implications for governments, for educational authorities and for managers and administrators in both private and public sectors of industry. Governments must strive particularly for better means of analysing the structure of the workforce and predicting changes in the need for educated and trained manpower. Educational authorities must learn to interpret information from such analyses and to obtain further Information for detailed forward planning. Managements must learn to make the most of the products of the educational systems (especially the technical and vocational educational systems) and to provide training both within the undertaking and in conjunction with technical institutions. This training (and retraining) must be provided for workers at all levels and for managers at all levels.

I shall conclude with a quotation from The Revolution in Education, by M. J. Adler and M. Mayer:

Democracy and mechanization of labour are here and they are here together. Whatever their shortcomings in practice they present the human race for the first time in human history with the possibility of the good life for all men and the equitable organization of human society.
GOVERNMENT DEPARTMENT OR STATUTORY AUTHORITY?
Authors: Rogan E. P.
Published: March 2008

This, and the two articles that follow, are shortened versions of papers delivered at the Nineteenth Annual Conference of the Victorian Regional Group, August 1968. The conference was opened by the Hon. W. A. Borthwick, M.L.A., Minister of Water Supply
THE CAVENIDISH MEMOIRS1
Authors: CAVENDISH N. T. , Curnow Ross
Published: March 2008

(Written on the eve of his retirement from the Public Service by Niccolo Taylor Cavendish, O.B.E.2 in the hope that the information contained therein may be of aid to those pledged to a life of dedicated administrative service.)
ATTITUDES TO VOCATIONAL EDUCATION
Authors: Gleeson G.
Published: March 2008

“The investment which modern communities make in education is very large indeed, and its effectiveness is a legitimate public concern. An educational system should of course aim to make its products richer and more cultivated people, but it should also fit them to do properly the work which must be done. In fact, the question of how well the educational system equips people for work ought to be under constant review by governments, educators and employers.”
Book Review
Authors: Nettheim Garth
Published: March 2008

Book reviewed in this article:

Frank Stacey. The British Ombudsman.

Report of the Commonwealth Administrative Review Committee
THE ROLE OF THE DEPARTMENT OF THE ENVIRONMENT AND CONSERVATION*
Authors: McMichael D. F.
Published: March 2008

The creation of an Australian Government Department of the Environment and Conservation represents, I believe, a major step at the national government level towards bringing a new dimension into the decision‐making process. The significance of this step remains to be seen. It will depend on continuing acceptance by all levels of government of the need to have regard to environment and conservation matters in making decisions, and it is too soon yet to predict to what extent it will be accepted.
CSIR 1926–1939
Authors: Currie Sir George , Graham John
Published: March 2008

The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR, later to become CSIRO) was established in 1926 to replace the pre‐existing Institute of Science and Industry. Its beginning was suffused with an optimism based on surpluses in Commonwealth revenues in the years 1926–8, an optimism which was reflected in the action of the Parliament in voting the sum of ł500,000 to be placed to the credit of a Trust Fund to give the new organization a good start. This amount was the exact sum which was mentioned by the then Prime Minister, W. M. Hughes, in his burst of enthusiasm, in December, 1915, when he first launched the Advisory Council of Science and Industry.
THE ADMINISTRATION OF FRENCH NATIONAL ECONOMIC PLANNING: LESSONS FOR AUSTRALIA
Authors: Wiltshire Kenneth W.
Published: March 2008

“We are therefore giving priority to setting up economic planning machinery with industry and employee co‐operation to restore strong but balanced economic growth.”—E. G. Whitlam, The Australian, 14th May, 1973.
THE STATUTORY CORPORATION—A NOTE ON THE THEORY OF AUTONOMY
Authors: Munster A. van
Published: March 2008

Readers of this journal, especially those who watch developments affecting the machinery of government in Canberra, will no doubt have noticed the rehabilitation of the concept of statutory independence—a notion that, in some academic circles, had been virtually written off as having little or no relevance in the real world, where the general tendency has been towards an extension of government control and co‐ordination of bureaucratic systems. Although it is much too early to evaluate, with suitable scholarly detachment, the significance of the administrative changes initiated since December, 1972, it seems a safe observation that for a small group of government agencies at least, the Labor Government has committed itself to the idea of independence. This much is clear from its declared aim of giving the Australian Broadcasting Commission more autonomy and the decision, recently announced, to reconstitute the Postmaster‐General's Department into two separate statutory corporations.