bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stress-Response in Male Partners of Women Submitted to in vitro Fertilization and Embryo Transfer
Authors: Tarabusi M. , Matteo M.L. , Volpe A. , Facchinetti F.
Published: April 2003

Background: In a previous work, we have reported the relationship between women and the outcome of in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (IVF-ET). The goal of the present work is to evaluate the association between vulnerability to stress and treatment outcome in male partners of couples submitted to IVF-ET. Methods: The day of semen collection at the Assisted Reproduction Unit of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Modena, 45 subjects were submitted to Stroop Color Word Conflict, a task measuring the ability to cope with a cognitive stressor, involving the attentional and sympathoadrenal system. Systolic and diastolic blood pressure, as well as heart rate (HR), were measured at baseline, during the test and 10 min after the end of testing. The evidence of pregnancy (βhCG >250 mIU/ml 12 days after ET) is the main outcome measure; the couples were classed in either a ‘success’ or a ‘failure’ group. Results: Thirteen couples became pregnant. Pregnancy progressed until term in 6 cases, while 7 cases showed only a preclinical evidence of pregnancy. Age, education, causes and duration of infertility were similar in the success and failure groups. No difference was found in the number and motility of spermatozoa both at baseline and after capacitation (a technique improving sperm motility). Moreover, the success group showed a higher number of both fertilized oocytes and embryos transferred compared with the failure group. The area under the curve of the cardiovascular parameters was calculated. The failure group showed a higher value for HR (50.6 ± 36.7 of percent total change) than the success group (31.8 ± 16.9; p = 0.006). Conclusions: The cardiovascular response to stress is a good correlate of success in infertile males submitted to the IVF-ET program.
Iron Status in a Healthy Population of Hungarian Secondary School Boys and Girls
Authors: Antal M. , Regöly-Mérei A. , Biró L. , Greiner E. , Sági K. , Àgfalvy R. , Nagy K. , Biró G.
Published: April 2003

Iron status was assessed in a sample of 103 male and 282 female students aged from 15 to 18 years attending secondary schools in Budapest. Using a ferritin model, in boys the prevalence of iron depletion, iron-deficient erythropoiesis and iron-deficient anemia was 3.9, 2.9 and 1.0%, respectively. In girls these values were 9.6, 8.2 and 2.8%, respectively. Males had better eating habits than females. Data for nutrients intake connected with iron status are discussed. The authors recommend the improvement of iron status by dietary means and oppose the indiscriminate iron supplementation.
Influence of Different Fat Emulsions with 10 or 20% MCT/LCT or LCT on Lipoproteins in Plasma of Patients after Abdominal Surgery
Authors: Hailer Susanne , Jauch Karl-Walter , Wolfram Günther
Published: April 2003

In patients after elective abdominal surgery, different fat emulsions were used to compare their efficacy in total parenteral nutrition and in normalizing plasma lipoprotein levels. In five different groups with 5 patients each, half of the nonprotein calories were given as medium-chain triglycerides/long-chain triglycerides (1:1) or as long-chain triglycerides alone in 10 or 20% fat emulsions or as glucose alone in a control group for 7 days. After surgery, an initial decrease of all plasma lipoprotein components was followed by a different behavior of glyceride-glycerol, cholesterol, phospholipids, and apolipoproteins. Glyceride-glycerol in very-low-density lipoproteins and high-density lipoproteins is increasing during infusion of fat emulsions and decreasing during overnight interruption of infusions. After the 7-day infusion period, there was no significant difference in very-low-density lipoprotein glyceride-glycerol as compared with the values before different infusions. Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol is reaching and exceeding preoperative concentrations between the 4th and the 7th day, most during infusion of 10% fat emulsion and especially due to an increase of free cholesterol. High-density lipoprotein cholesterol and apolipoprotein A-I reach preoperative levels during infusion of fat emulsions but not with glucose alone. Higher than preoperative values are reached in phospholipids with all fat infusions already on day 4. Abnormal lipoprotein X occurred least with the medium- chain/long-chain triglyceride 20% fat-infusion. This fat emulsion is suggested as having the best normalizing effect on plasma lipoproteins and best tolerance in patients after surgery.
Analysis of Fecal Bile Acids and Neutral Steroids Using Gas-Liquid Chromatography
Authors: Srikumar T.S. , Wezendonk B. , van Dokkum W.
Published: April 2003

In the present pilot study, for investigating the physiological effects of different types of nondigestible oligosaccharides, we have validated the application of methodologies for the analysis of bile acids and neutral steroids in feces of human subjects. The accuracy of the extraction and chromatographic procedures for the analyses of bile acids and neutral steroids was determined by recovery of added compounds to fecal homogenate. The precision of the above procedures was checked by analyzing these compounds in samples (n = 5) of the same fecal homogenate. Recoveries of added bile acids ranged from 86 and 96%, and those of neutral steroids varied from 81 to 97%. The precision expressed as coefficients of variation of bile acids and neutral steroids ranged from 2.3 to 8.3% and from 6.3 to 11.8%, respectively. The intra- and interindividual variabilities expressed as coefficients of variation of bile acids varied from 1 to 58 and from 0 to 74%, respectively. The same variabilities for neutral steroids ranged from 0.5 to 107% and from 1 to 168%, respectively. The methods validated in the present pilot study were adequate for applying to our forthcoming European Union coordinated major study on the physiological effects of different types of nondigestible oligosaccharides and involving large numbers of samples.
Effects of Aging on the Energy Balance of Pregnant Rats
Authors: Luz Jacqueline , Griggio Mauro Antonio
Published: April 2003

In pregnant and non-pregnant female rats at various ages the energy balance was determined to study the age-induced alterations in the mother and conceptus. The animals were anesthetized and the conceptus removed and separated into male, female, and placental tissues. The animals were then killed and the carcasses prepared for energy balance determination. The results obtained showed that the older animals gained less energy in the body and had lower gross food efficiency than the younger animals. The number, energy and weight of the offspring were not affected by the mother’s age. Nevertheless, due to its constant growth during life, the rat is not the best model to study age-related processes.
Effect of Dietary Oils, Cholesterol and Antioxidant Vitamin Supplementation on Liver Microsomal Fluidity and Xenobiotic-Metabolizing Enzymes in Rats
Authors: Lutz M. , Bonilla S. , Concha J. , Alvarado J. , Barraza P.
Published: April 2003

This study was undertaken to compare the effects of four oils: corn (C), olive (O), hazelnut (H) or fish (F), and the intake of two supplements: cholesterol, 1% (Ch) or dl-α-tocopherol acetate, 500 mg/kg, and β-carotene, 30 mg/kg (V), on liver microsomal fluidity, cyt P450 content and aniline hydroxylase (AH), aminopyrine-N-dimethylase (AND) and UDP-glucuronyltransferase (UDP-GT) activities. Male Sprague-Dawley rats (n = 6/group) were fed semipurified diets containing 15% oil, without or with Ch or V, for 20 days. Dietary intake and feed efficiency were lower in rats fed F. Relative liver weight was higher in animals fed F, similar in O and H, and lower in the group fed C. The intake of V increased feed intake in C+V group and decreased the relative liver weight of F+V group, which also decreased with the intake of F+Ch. Ch intake increased the relative liver weight in all groups consuming vegetable oils. Cyt P450 content was higher in rats fed F. Decreased cyt P450 content was observed in C+Ch and F+Ch groups, while it augmented in H+Ch group. Mixture V increased cyt P450 in rats fed C+V, F+V and O+V. The highest membrane fluidity was observed in rats fed F. Fluidity was also higher in group H versus O or C. The intake of Ch decreased microsomal fluidity in all groups, while V induced an increase in microsomal fluidity in group O+V. Rats fed F exhibited higher enzyme activities. AND activity increased with V only in rats fed H+V, while AH activity increased with V intake in groups F+V and O+V. In the C+V group, fluidity was not affected by V, while the cyt P450 content and UDP-GT activity increased. The O+V group exhibited lower UDP-GT activity and higher fluidity and cyt P450 content. The activity of AH decreased in groups F+Ch and C+Ch. UDP-GT activity was higher in rats fed F. It diminished after the intake of Ch in H+Ch and F+Ch. These results indicate that although AH and AND act in the same microsomal metabolic pathway, their localization into the membrane may be determinant of their activity and the response to dietary lipids. It is shown that F intake exerts the most significant effects upon liver microsomal properties, e.g. higher fluidity, cyt P450 content and enzymatic activities, an effect that prevails over the intake of the supplements tested.
Long-Term Modification of the Excretion of Prostaglandin E2 by Fetal Exposure to a Maternal Low Protein Diet in the Rat
Authors: Sherman Rachel C. , Jackson Alan A. , Langley-Evans Simon C.
Published: April 2003

Prenatal exposure to maternal undernutrition in both humans and animals is associated with long-term changes in the structure, physiological functions and metabolism of key tissues and organs. This phenomenon, termed programming, is implicated in the aetiology of cardiovascular disease. Using an established rat model of hypertension programmed by prenatal protein restriction, assessment was made of the long-term influence of maternal diet upon prostaglandin metabolism. Pregnant rats were fed isoenergetic diets containing 18% casein (control) or 9% casein (low protein) from conception until littering. The offspring of these pregnancies were studied at day 20 of gestation, full-term gestation and at 4, 7 or 12 weeks postnatal age. Prostaglandin E2 concentrations in plasma were similar in control and low-protein diet-exposed rats at 4 weeks of age. Urinary prostaglandin E2 excretion was, however, significantly increased by prenatal undernutrition in rats at both 4 and 12 weeks postnatal age. The principal enzyme of prostaglandin E2 degradation, 15-hydroxyprostaglandin dehydrogenase (PGDH) exhibited significantly lower activity in the kidneys of 4-week-old rats exposed to a maternal low-protein diet. This effect was transient and absent by 12 weeks postnatal age. There was also some evidence of an altered developmental profile of PGDH activity in the lungs of low-protein diet-exposed rats. These data are consistent with the long-term programming effects of the maternal diet upon renal prostaglandin metabolism. In the rat, increased local prostaglandin E2 concentrations associated with impaired degradation may contribute to increased renovascular resistance and hypertension.
Clearance and Metabolism of Starch Foods in the Oral Cavity
Authors: Linke HaraldA.B. , Birkenfeld LuciaH.
Published: April 2003

The presence of carbohydrates and organic acids was monitored in the oral cavity over a 3-hour period following the ingestion of six foods containing cooked starch (popcorn, potato chips, corn flakes, bread stick, hard pretzel and wheat cracker) and compared to a food containing sugar (chocolate-covered candy bar). Oral fluid samples were collected at 30-min intervals from five different tooth sites from 7 volunteers using absorbent paper points. Samples were analyzed for carbohydrates and organic acids using high-performance liquid chromatography. Analytical data for each food were pooled and compared to the results of the sugar food. The amount of lactic acid produced 30 min after ingestion was highest with the potato chips and lowest with the corn flakes. Potato starch contributed more readily to oral lactic acid production than wheat or corn starch. A direct linear relationship existed between lactic acid production and the presence of oral glucose produced from starch, which occurred via the metabolites maltotriose and maltose. Oral clearance of foods containing cooked starch proceeded significantly slower than that of the sugar food, thus contributing to a prolonged period of lactic acid production.
Sex Differences in the Effect of Obesity on Human Plasma Tryptophan/Large Neutral Amino Acid Ratio
Authors: Roca Pilar , Proenza AnaM. , Palou Andreu
Published: April 2003

Backgrounds: The neurotransmitter serotonin (5-HT) contributes to the regulation of food intake and appetite behavior, and its rate of synthesis depends upon brain tryptophan (TRP) availability in relation to the large neutral amino acids (LNAAs). Thus, the ratio of TRP to the sum of LNAA (TRP/LNAA) will be representative of the 5-HT brain levels. Differences between men and women in the obesity-linked alterations in whole blood amino acid levels and compartmentation have been described. The aim of this work was to study the effect of obesity on brain TRP availability in men and women and to determine whether there are sex-linked differences. Methods: The plasma levels of TRP and LNAAs in 42 men and 46 women (classified according to their body mass index (BMI) into lean, overweight and obese) have been determined by HPLC. Results: The TRP/LNAA ratio shows a significant drop which is even more pronounced in men than in women as BMI increases. Moreover, the comparison of the values between the 3 BMI groups revealed that the drop in the TRP/LNAA ratio appears with overweight in men but only with obesity in women. Conclusion: These sex differences could affect hypothetical behavioral differences of feeling hunger when facing voluntary food restriction for weight loss in individuals of different genders and with varying degrees of obesity.
Cholesterol-Lowering Activity of Naringenin via Inhibition of 3-Hydroxy-3-Methylglutaryl Coenzyme A Reductase and Acyl Coenzyme A:Cholesterol Acyltransferase in Rats
Authors: Lee S.H. , Park Y.B. , Bae K.H. , Bok S. H. , Kwon Y.K. , Lee E.S. , Choi M.S.
Published: April 2003

The effects of dietary supplementation of a citrus bioflavonoid, naringenin, on the cholesterol metabolism were studied. For 42 days male rats were fed a 1% (wt/wt) high-cholesterol diet with or without a naringenin supplementation (0.1%, wt/wt) to study its effect on plasma lipid levels, hepatic lipid contents, activities of hepatic acyl coenzyme A:cholesterol O-acyltransferase (ACAT) and 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A (HMG-CoA) reductase, and the excretion of fecal neutral sterols. Naringenin did not significantly alter the concentration of plasma triglycerides, but lowered the plasma cholesterol (3.80 vs. 3.12 mmol/l) concentration and the hepatic cholesterol content (70.3 vs. 54.0 mg/g) significantly (p < 0.05) compared to those of the controls. HMG-CoA reductase (1,879.0 vs. 1,715.0 pmol/min/mg) and ACAT activities (806.0 vs. 563.0 pmol/min/mg) were significantly lower in the naringenin-supplemented group than in controls. Naringenin supplementation caused a marked decrease in the excretion of fecal neutral sterols (242.9 mg/day) compared to the controls (521.9 mg/day). These results show that naringenin lowers the plasma and hepatic cholesterol concentrations by suppressing HMG-CoA reductase and ACAT in rats fed a high-cholesterol diet.
Quantitative Food Intake in the EPIC-Germany Cohorts
Authors: Schulze Matthias B. , Brandstetter Birgit R. , Kroke Anja , Wahrendorf Jürgen , Boeing Heiner
Published: April 2003

The EPIC-Heidelberg and the EPIC-Potsdam studies with about 53,000 study participants represent the German contribution to the EPIC (European Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition) cohort study. Within the EPIC study, standardized 24-hour dietary recalls were applied as a quantitative calibration method in order to estimate the amount of scaling bias introduced by the varying center-specific dietary assessment methods. This article presents intake of food items and food groups in the two German cohorts estimated by 24-hour quantitative dietary recalls. Recalls from 1,013 men and 1,078 women in Heidelberg and 1,032 men and 898 women in Potsdam were included in the analysis. The intake of recorded food items or recipe ingredients as well as fat used for cooking was summarized into 16 main food groups and a variety of different subgroups stratified by sex and weighted for the day of the week and age. In more than 90% of the recalls, consumption of dairy products, cereals and cereal products, bread, fat, and non-alcoholic beverages, particularly coffee/tea, was reported. Inter-cohort evaluations revealed that bread, potatoes, fruit and fat were consumed in higher amounts in the Potsdam cohort while the opposite was found for pasta/rice, non-alcoholic, and alcoholic beverages. It was concluded that the exposure variation was increased by having two instead of one EPIC study centers in Germany.
Consumption of Oat Milk for 5 Weeks Lowers Serum Cholesterol and LDL Cholesterol in Free-Living Men with Moderate Hypercholesterolemia
Authors: Önning Gunilla , Wallmark Anders , Persson Margaretha , Åkesson Björn , Elmståhl Sölve , Öste Rickard
Published: April 2003

The aim of this study was to investigate whether consumption of a newly developed oat milk deprived of insoluble fiber would result in lower serum cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels in men with moderate hypercholesterolemia. The study had a randomized, controlled double-blind design, and oat milk was compared with an identically flavored control drink. Sixty-six men were recruited from a screening program and were randomly assigned to two groups. Each group took either oat milk or a control drink (rice milk) for 5 weeks (0.75 liters/day) and then switched to the other drink regimen for another 5-week period with a 5-week washout period between the test periods. The oat milk contained more dietary fiber, especially β-glucan (0.5 g/100 g), than the control drink (<0.02 g/100 g). Both drinks were well appreciated and got similar sensory evaluation, indicating that the double-blind design had been attained. In the final analysis 52 subjects remained. Compared with the control drink, intake of oat milk resulted in significantly lower serum total cholesterol (6%, p = 0.005) and LDL cholesterol (6%, p = 0.036) levels. The decrease in LDL cholesterol was more pronounced if the starting value was higher (r = –0.55, p < 0.001). The concentration of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol was not significantly different after consumption of the two drinks. Serum triglycerides did not change significantly after intake of oat milk, but a significant increase was observed after intake of the control drink (p = 0.003). It is concluded that also oat milk deprived of insoluble fiber has cholesterol-reducing properties.
Addition of Inulin to Breakfast Does Not Acutely Affect Serum Ionized Calcium and Parathyroid Hormone Concentrations
Authors: Teuri Ulla , Kärkkäinen Merja , Lamberg-Allardt Christel , Korpela Riitta
Published: April 2003

Background/Aims: The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of inulin on calcium metabolism. The study consisted of two separate parts both of which had a randomized two-period cross-over design. Methods: Fifteen young healthy women volunteered to participate in this study. During the first part of the study, cheese containing 210 mg of calcium, either with 15 g of inulin or without any inulin, was ingested at breakfast, and in the second part, 210 mg of calcium as a supplement, either with 15 g inulin or without inulin, was ingested. The whole day’s diet was standardized. Before breakfast, and 2, 4, 6 and 8 h after breakfast, a blood sample was taken, and intact parathyroid hormone (iPTH), ionized calcium (iCa) and total calcium were measured. Urine was collected throughout the day, and the 8-, 12- and 24-hour calcium excretion was calculated. Results: The iPTH or iCa concentration curves (AUCs) did not differ over 8 h, whether or not inulin was consumed at breakfast. The postload urinary calcium excretion was not affected by the inulin. Conclusion: Fifteen grams of inulin in fresh cheese or with a calcium supplement (210 mg Ca) taken at breakfast does not acutely affect the markers of calcium metabolism as opposed to a corresponding breakfast without inulin.
Effect of a Hypocaloric Diet, Increased Protein Intake and Resistance Training on Lean Mass Gains and Fat Mass Loss in Overweight Police Officers
Authors: Demling Robert H. , DeSanti Leslie
Published: April 2003

We compare the effects of a moderate hypocaloric, high-protein diet and resistance training, using two different protein supplements, versus hypocaloric diet alone on body compositional changes in overweight police officers. A randomized, prospective 12-week study was performed comparing the changes in body composition produced by three different treatment modalities in three study groups. One group (n = 10) was placed on a nonlipogenic, hypocaloric diet alone (80% of predicted needs). A second group (n = 14) was placed on the hypocaloric diet plus resistance exercise plus a high-protein intake (1.5 g/kg/day) using a casein protein hydrolysate. In the third group (n = 14) treatment was identical to the second, except for the use of a whey protein hydrolysate. We found that weight loss was approximately 2.5 kg in all three groups. Mean percent body fat with diet alone decreased from a baseline of 27 ± 1.8 to 25 ± 1.3% at 12 weeks. With diet, exercise and casein the decrease was from 26 ± 1.7 to 18 ± 1.1% and with diet, exercise and whey protein the decrease was from 27 ± 1.6 to 23 ± 1.3%. The mean fat loss was 2.5 ± 0.6, 7.0 ± 2.1 and 4.2 ± 0.9 kg in the three groups, respectively. Lean mass gains in the three groups did not change for diet alone, versus gains of 4 ± 1.4 and 2 ± 0.7 kg in the casein and whey groups, respectively. Mean increase in strength for chest, shoulder and legs was 59 ± 9% for casein and 29 ± 9% for whey, a significant group difference. This significant difference in body composition and strength is likely due to improved nitrogen retention and overall anticatabolic effects caused by the peptide components of the casein hydrolysate.
Homocysteine Levels in Vegetarians versus Omnivores
Authors: Krajčovičová-Kudláčková M. , Blažíček P. , Kopčová J. , Béderová A. , Babinská K.
Published: April 2003

Vitamin B12, folate, and vitamin B6 are the main determinants of homocysteinemia. The vegan diet provides no vitamin B12, but also less strict forms of alternative nutrition may suffer from a deficit of this vitamin. The plasma homocysteine level was measured in alternative nutrition groups of adults (lacto- and lactoovovegetarians, n = 62; vegans, n = 32) and compared with the levels in a group consuming traditional diet (n = 59), omnivores). In the group of vegetarians the average homocysteine level is 13.18 vs. 10.19 μmol/l in omnivores; the frequency of hyperhomocysteinemia is 29 vs. 5% in omnivores. In the group of vegans the average homocysteine value is 15.79 μmol/l (53% of the individual values exceeded 15 μmol/l). Omnivores consume the recommended amount of methionine; however, in individuals consuming an alternative diet, the intake of methionine is deficient (assessed by food frequency questionnaire; lower content of methionine in plant proteins). Under conditions of lower methionine availability the remethylation pathway prevails; therefore, vitamin B12 and folate were evaluated in relation to the homocysteine level. The serum vitamin B12 levels are significantly lower in the alternative nutrition groups (214.8 pmol/l in vegetarians, 140.1 pmol/l in vegans vs. 344.7 pmol/l in omnivores); a deficit (<179.0 pmol/l) was found in 26% of the vegetarians and in 78% of the vegans vs. 0% in omnivores. The serum folate levels were within the range of reference values in all groups; however, they were significantly lower in omnivores. The results show that the mild hyperhomocysteinemia in alternative nutrition is a consequence of vitamin B12 deficiency.
Electrolytes, Water, RNA, Total Creatine and Calculated Resting Membrane Potential in Muscle Tissue from Pregnant Women
Authors: Forsum E. , Forsberg A.M. , Nilsson E. , Bergström J. , Hultman E.
Published: April 2003

Background: The nutritional situation of the fetus and pregnant woman is important for human health, but knowledge of how nutrition affects maternal metabolism and physiology during pregnancy is limited. Such knowledge is important, for example in body composition studies, when information about lean tissue composition is needed. Muscle, a main part of lean tissue, changes its composition in response to age and sex, but the effect of pregnancy on this composition is unknown. Methods: Muscle samples from 11 pregnant and 16 nonpregnant women were analyzed for water, electrolytes, total creatine, alkali-soluble protein (ASP), DNA and RNA. Plasma was analyzed for electrolytes. The amount of extracellular and intracellular water as well as the resting membrane potential (RMP) in muscle were calculated. Results: Pregnant women had lower plasma concentrations of potassium and sodium but higher muscle concentrations of sodium and water (total and extracellular) than nonpregnant women. RMP was more negative in pregnant than in nonpregnant women. Total creatine in muscle (per kilogram ASP) was increased during pregnancy. The muscle content of RNA (per kilogram DNA) was lower in gestational week 18 than in nonpregnant controls. Conclusion: Pregnancy influences muscle composition in several ways that are relevant for an increased understanding of interactions between nutrition and reproduction.
Oxidative Modification of Low-Density Lipoprotein Enhances Mesangial Cell Protein Synthesis and Gene Expression of Extracellular Matrix Proteins
Authors: Roh Daeyoung D. , Kamanna Vaijinath S. , Kirschenbaum Michael A.
Published: April 2003

The proliferation of intrinsic glomerular cells and the accumulation of extracellular matrix proteins are principal histopathological features seen in glomerular injury. Because of the marked similarity between the cellular and molecular events that occur in both atherosclerosis and glomerulosclerosis and the commonly accepted hypothesis that lipoproteins are implicated in the pathogenesis of glomerulosclerosis, we examined the effect of three atherogenic lipoproteins, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), oxidized (ox)-LDL, and minimally modified (mm)-LDL on the synthesis and secretion of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins by mesangial cells. The incubation of SV-40 transformed murine mesangial cells with LDL (25–100 µg/ml) increased the synthesis and secretion of both fibronectin and laminin in a dose-dependent manner. Similarly, oxidized forms of LDL (25–100 µg/ml) increased fibronectin and laminin synthesis and secretion dose dependently. However, both oxidatively modified forms of LDL had a greater effect on increasing ECM protein synthesis than their native counterpart. Northern blot analysis showed a dose-dependent increase in mRNA transcripts for fibronectin and laminin in response to the incubation of mesangial cells with LDL, ox-LDL, and mm-LDL. Similar to the ECM protein expression data, the oxidatively modified forms of LDL had more pronounced effects on the gene expression of both fibronectin and laminin. These data show that both LDL and, perhaps more importantly, its oxidatively modified forms stimulate mesangial cells to upregulate both the gene expression and synthesis and secretion of ECM proteins, supporting a role for atherogenic lipoproteins in the pathobiology of glomerular injury.
Clinical Course of Cytomegalovirus (CMV) Viremia with and without Ganciclovir Treatment in CMV-Seropositive Kidney Transplant Recipients
Authors: Yang Chul Woo , Kim Young Ok , Kim Yong Soo , Kim Suk Young , Moon In Sung , Ahn Hee Jong , Koh Yong Bok , Bang Byung Kee
Published: April 2003

This study was designed to evaluate the longitudinal history of cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection and to test the capacity of ganciclovir as effective therapy in CMV-seropositive renal transplant recipients. The CMV viremia was detected with CMV pp65 antigenemia assay in 153 renal transplants. The recipients were classified as having low-grade and high-grade CMV infections according to the severity of CMV infection. The recipients with low-grade CMV infections were observed without ganciclovir treatment, and the recipients with high-grade CMV infection were randomly assigned to ganciclovir-treated and untreated groups. The clinical course between low-grade and high-grade CMV infections was evaluated. All recipients with low-grade CMV infection (n = 62) showed spontaneous remission regardless of immunosuppresants. In high-grade CMV infection (n = 31), the ciclosporin A treated group (n = 11) showed no evidence of CMV disease, and the methylprednisolone-treated group (n = 8) showed CMV disease in 1 (25%) of 4 ganciclovir-untreated recipients. In the OKT3 group (n = 12), symptomatic CMV infection was observed in 6 (100%) ganciclovir-untreated recipients contrary to no CMV disease in the ganciclovir-treated group (p < 0.05). In conclusion, the CMV antigenemia assay is effective in monitoring CMV viremia, and ganciclovir treatment should be done during early CMV viremia in OKT3-treated recipients.
Study of Effect of Optimization of Dialysis and Protein Intake on Neuromuscular Function in Patients under Maintenance Hemodialysis Treatment
Authors: Sobh Mohamed A. , Sheashaa Hussein , El Haleem Tantawy Abd , Ghoneim Mohamed A.
Published: April 2003

This study was carried out on 22 patients on maintenance hemodialysis. Among them, 20 patients were males and 2 were females, their age ranged from 12 to 50 years. Initially, the patients were assessed clinically and by laboratory investigations and their dialysis was assessed by studying their urea kinetic modeling following the nomographic approach for calculating their Kt/V values. Their nutrition was assessed by measuring skin folds, midarm circumference, laboratory parameters and by calculating the normalized protein catabolic rate (nPCR). Also their neuromuscular functions were assessed by clinical examination and neurophysiologic study. Dialysis dose was readjusted to achieve a target Kt/V value of 1.3 for patients on 3 times weekly dialysis and 1.6 for patients on twice weekly dialysis. Also, their nutrition was reviewed to achieve nPCR 1.2 g/kg/day and caloric intake 30–40 kcal/kg/day through diet manipulation and support. The patients were assessed finally after 3 months on targeted dialysis and nutrition by thorough clinical, laboratory and neuromuscular assessment.Analysis of neurophysiologic data showed significant improvement in electromyography. Furthermore, fatigue test showed significant (p = 0.002) decreases in muscle fatigue after optimization of dialysis dose and patients’ nutrition.From this study, we may conclude that in dialysis patients, even when asymptomatic and clinically stable, neurologic deficits do exist and using area kinetic modeling to improve dialysis and patients’ nutrition is valuable in improving their neuromuscular functions.
Persistent Transforming Growth Factor-Beta 1 Expression May Predict Peritoneal Fibrosis in CAPD Patients with Frequent Peritonitis Occurrence
Authors: Lin Ching-Yuang , Chen Wei-Perng , Yang Ling-Yoeu , Chen Ann , Huang Tung-Po
Published: April 2003

The efficiency of continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis depends on the permeability of the peritoneal membrane. Peritoneal fibrosis (PF) causes loss of the dialytic function. Several studies have indicated that PF is closely related to the proliferation of peritoneal fibroblasts and the deposition of extracellular matrix. Transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1) plays a major role in stimulating extracellular matrix deposition. Frequent peritonitis occurrence may cause persistent TGF-β1 mRNA expression. In an attempt to search for a factor related to PF, we designed a longitudinal study to measure TGF-β1 levels in dialysate and TGF-β1 mRNA expression in peritoneal mononuclear cells from peritoneal dialysate before onset, once a week during peritonitis, and after peritonitis in high and low peritonitis occurrence (HPO and LPO) patients. Fifteen patients with a LPO rate and 5 patients with a HPO rate were followed up longitudinally. Meanwhile, TGF-β1 levels and TGF-β1 mRNA expression were augmented in peritoneal dialysate effluents before, during, and after the episodes of peritonitis. The peritoneal permeability was evaluated by the peritoneal equilibration test. The results revealed that in the LPO group, TGF-β1 and TGF-β1 mRNA were detectable at early stages of peritonitis, but the levels decreased rapidly and were undetectable 2 weeks after peritonitis. On the other hand, in the HPO group, TGF-β1 and TGF-β1 mRNA persisted for a long time. We could detect TGF-β1 and TGF-β1 mRNA in dialysate effluents and peritoneal mononuclear cells even 2, 3, and 4 weeks after episodes of peritonitis. When compared with that of first or second episode of peritonitis, the peritoneal function evaluated with the peritoneal equilibration test was found to obviously deteriorate during the third episode of peritonitis. These findings were confirmed by an in situ hybridization technique to evaluate the relationship between TGF-β1 mRNA expression and PF from biopsied peritoneal specimens. These findings suggest that the high TGF-β1 levels in the dialysate are related to an increased expression of TGF-β1 in the peritoneum. Thus, the persistent TGF-β1 expression in the peritoneum may serve as a useful parameter in predicting PF in continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis patients with frequent peritonitis occurrence.
Delivered Dialysis Dose with PD Plus Therapy
Authors: Diaz-Buxo Jose A. , Youngblood Brenda P. , Torres Anne M.
Published: April 2003

Aim: To evaluate the effect of PD Plus on weekly Kt/Vurea and creatinine clearance (Kcr) among patients undergoing CAPD/CCPD (continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis/continuous cyclic peritoneal dialysis). Methods: The kinetic studies of 92 CAPD and 18 CCPD patients who transferred to PD Plus were analyzed. All patients underwent CAPD/CCPD and PD Plus for a minimum of 3 months. Standard collection methods were used and kinetic indices calculated with the Pack PD Kinetic Modeling program. 57 patients had transport data and were modeled for a target weekly Kt/Vurea ≥2.1 using PD Plus with ≤15 liters dialysate/day. 6 patients were supervised during the collection periods by research nurses. The actual results for all patients (110) and for the supervised patients were compared against the modeled results. Results:45% of the patients achieved a Kt/Vurea ≥2.1 and 47% a Kcr ≥60 liters/1.73 m2 with PD Plus, but only 20% did so with CAPD/CCPD. A close correlation between the supervised patients and modeled therapy was observed. Conclusions: Adequate dialysis is possible by using higher fill volumes, the supine position, and optimal dwell times (PD Plus) in most patients. The discrepancy between modeled and achieved dose is likely due to poor compliance with therapy, inadequate training, or poor specimen collection.
The Kidney in Ancient Egyptian Medicine: Where Does It Stand?
Authors: Salem Mohamed E. , Eknoyan Garabed
Published: April 2003

Driven by their deep-seated desire for eternal life in a healthy body, ancient Egyptians were one of the first civilizations to begin collecting and recording medical lore and medicinals that were effective for a healthy body. With its religious origins, medical care was initially provided by priests, but evolved over time into an independent discipline practiced by the swnw (sounou) or physician. What has been preserved of their knowledge in extant medical papyri reflects the great capacity of Egyptians for practical achievement in treating symptoms, but lacks the abstract thought that was to come with the advent of the more rational Greek medicine. The number of prescriptions and incantations for the management of urinary disorders (hematuria, retention, frequency, infection) and dropsy that are mentioned in extant medical papyri likely reflect the frequency with which these problems were encountered. Urine was thought to be formed in the region of the bladder, by a process considered akin to purification. Available studies on preserved mummies indicate that kidney disease was not uncommon. Whether a functional role of the kidney was appreciated at all is highly doubtful. On the other hand, the available evidence suggests an awareness of the kidney (ggt) to which was ascribed a mythological role that may well account for why the kidneys and the heart were the only organs not removed during the process of mummification.
Diuretic-Induced Hyponatremia
Authors: Spital Aaron
Published: April 2003

Diuretics are one of the most common causes of severe hyponatremia. Yet, despite several relevant studies and years of clinical experience, the mechanism and optimal treatment of diuretic-induced hyponatremia remain unclear. What is clear is that most cases are caused by thiazide rather than loop diuretics and that severe hyponatremia can develop very rapidly in susceptible patients. In this review, I will discuss the pathogenesis, clinical features, prevention, and treatment of diuretic-induced hyponatremia in the hope that increased awareness and understanding will reduce the incidence and complications of this potentially life-threatening syndrome.
A Case of Primary Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome with Acute Renal Failure Showing Thrombotic Microangiopathy
Authors: Sakaguchi Sumiyo , Kitazawa Kozo , Watanabe Makoto , Mukai Kazumitsu , Totsuka Daisuke , Shibata Takanori , Sugisaki Tetsuzo
Published: April 2003

An 18-year-old woman complained of fever and edema and was admitted to Showa University Hospital for treatment of thrombocytopenia and deteriorating renal function. Laboratory studies demonstrated the presence of lupus anticoagulant (LA), prolongation of prothrombin time, hemolytic anemia, a negative Coombs’ test, the absence of antinuclear antibodies, and a normal fibrinogen level. Renal biopsy revealed mesangial hypercellularity, severe endocapillary cell damage, and double contour of the basement membrane walls. Immunofluorescence studies demonstrated focal, peripheral, and finely granular deposits for IgG, IgM, and IgA but were negative for fibrinogen. Electron microscopy showed glomerular capillary loops with subendothelial widening and subendothelial deposits, mesangiolysis, mesangial interposition, and marked luminal narrowing. Biopsy findings were consistent with thrombotic microangiopathy. The patient was treated with hemodialysis, methylprednisolone pulse therapy, and dipyridamole. After treatment, LA disappeared, the prothrombin time became normal, and renal function improved. The renal lesions in this patient were caused by primary antiphospholipid antibody syndrome. This case strongly suggests an important causal relationship between LA and renal lesions in thrombotic microangiopathy. We present this case to promote understanding of the pathogenesis of primary antiphospholipid antibody syndrome.
Oral Adsorbent AST-120 Ameliorates Interstitial Fibrosis and Transforming Growth Factor-β1 Expression in Spontaneously Diabetic (OLETF) Rats
Authors: Aoyama Isao , Shimokata Kaoru , Niwa Toshimitsu
Published: April 2003

Diabetic nephropathy is a common cause of end-stage renal disease. The administration of an oral adsorbent, AST-120, prevents the progression of chronic renal failure in uremic rats and undialyzed uremic patients. This study was designed to determine if AST-120 slows the progression of diabetic nephropathy using Otsuka Long-Evans Tokushima Fatty (OLETF) rats, a model of non-insulin-dependent diabetic mellitus. At 21 weeks of age the OLETF rats were divided into 2 groups: AST-120-administered OLETF rats (n = 7), and control OLETF rats (n = 7). LETO rats, which are genetically similar to the OLETF rats but not diabetic, were also included. After the oral administration of AST-120 for 65 weeks, renal function and pathological changes were investigated in the 3 groups. The administration of AST-120 to the OLETF rats attenuated the progression of glomerular sclerosis, interstitial fibrosis, tubular injury as well as renal dysfunction, and reduced the serum and urinary levels of indoxyl sulfate. Furthermore, AST-120 administration reduced the interstitial expression of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP)-1, as well as interstitial infiltration of macrophages. The TGF-β1-stained interstitial area showed positive correlations with the interstitial fibrosis area, the number of TIMP-1-positive cells, and the number of macrophages, and showed a negative correlation with creatinine clearance. In conclusion, AST-120 reduced the interstitial expression of TGF-β1 and TIMP-1, and the interstitial infiltration of macrophages, and ameliorates the progression of diabetic nephropathy in OLETF rats.
Comparison of Blood Gas and Acid-Base Measurements in Arterial and Venous Blood Samples in Patients with Uremic Acidosis and Diabetic Ketoacidosis in the Emergency Room
Authors: Gokel Yüksel , Paydas Saime , Koseoglu Zikret , Alparslan Nazan , Seydaoglu Gülşah
Published: April 2003

Background/aims: The aim of this study was to examine a plausible correlation between venous and arterial blood gas values in acidotic patients with chronic uremia or diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). Methods: A total of 152 arterial and 152 venous blood samples from uremic patients (n = 100), DKA patients (n = 21) and healthy controls (n = 31) were analyzed for measurements of blood gas and acid-base status. Results: The means of arterial and venous pH, and arterial and venous HCO–3 values for the uremic patients were 7.17 ± 0.14, 7.13 ± 0.14, 10.13 ± 4.26 and 11.86 ± 4.23 mmol/l, respectively. The respective mean differences between arterial and venous pH values and arterial and venous HCO–3 values were 0.04 ± 0.02 and –1.72 ± 0.42 mmol/l, respectively, for these patients. The means of the laboratory findings of DKA patients were arterial pH, 7.15 ± 0.15; venous pH, 7.10 ± 0.15; arterial HCO–3, 8.57 ± 5.71 mmol/l and venous HCO–3, 10.46 ± 5.73 mmol/l. The respective mean differences between arterial and venous pH and arterial and venous HCO–3 for this group were calculated to be 0.05 ± 0.01 and –1.88 ± 0.41 mmol/l. In the healthy controls, the means of arterial and venous pH, and arterial and venous HCO–3 values were 7.39 ± 0.02, 7.34 ± 0.02, 24.91 ± 0.82 and 26.57 ± 0.83 mmol/l, respectively. For the healthy controls the mean differences between the respective values in arterial and venous pH, and arterial and venous HCO–3 were 0.05 ± 0.01 and –1.66 ± 0.58 mmol/l. Although in healthy controls the correlation between arterial and venous pH values (r2: 0.595) and arterial and venous HCO–3 values (r2: 0.552) were moderate, these correlations were significantly increased in both the acidotic patient group (r2: 0.979 and 0.990) and the DKA group (r2: 0.989 and 0.995) Conclusion: A venous blood sample can be used to evaluate the acid-base status in uremic and DKA patients.
Calciphylaxis in Moderate Renal Insufficiency: Changing Disease Concepts
Authors: Smiley Clayton M. , Hanlon Stephen U. , Michel Donna M.
Published: April 2003

Calciphylaxis is a rare but frequently fatal complication in patients with end-stage renal disease. Original concepts regarding groups at risk for the disease, predisposing factors, and associated morbidity have changed significantly in the past few years as more cases are reported. We present a patient who developed fatal calciphylaxis in the setting of moderate renal insufficiency to illustrate some of the evolving concepts in this disease process.
Hepatitis G Virus Infection in Hemodialysis Patients and Its Relationship with Hepatitis C Virus Infection
Authors: Fernandez Jose Luis , Valtuille Rodolfo , Hidalgo Aurora , del Pino Noemi , Lef Leonardo , Rendo Pablo
Published: April 2003

Our aim was to study the characteristics of hepatitis G virus (HGV) infection in hemodialysis (HD) patients. We evaluated 108 patients from two different units (A: 67 patients; B: 41 patients). HGV RNA and HCV RNA were detected by PCR. Nineteen patients (17.6%) were HGV RNA positive (20.9% in unit A and 12.2% in unit B (NS)). HCV RNA was positive in 19 patients (17.6%) (28.4% in unit A and 0 in unit B (p < 0.01)). Eight patients were HGV RNA and HCV RNA positive (group I), 11 HGV RNA positive (group II), 11 HCV RNA positive (group III), and 78 negative for both viruses (group IV). Time on HD was 51.3 +/- 37.0 months for group I, 36.0 +/- 27.9 months for group II, 63.5 +/- 40.2 months for group III, and 26.4 +/- 27.1 months for group IV (p < 0.01 for I and III). Seven patients (87.5%) from group I, 9 (81.8%) from group II, 10 (90.9%) from group III, and 44 (56.4%) from group IV had a history of transfusion (p < 0.03 for I, II and III). Two patients (25%) from group I, none from group II, 5 (45.4%) from group III, and 6 (7.7%) from group IV had chronic ALAT elevation (p < 0.01 for I and III). We conclude that HGV infection was frequent in our HD patients, related to transfusions and independent of HCV prevalence, and that HGV infection itself was not a cause of ALAT elevation suggesting chronic hepatitis.
Study of the Human Auditory Cortices Using a Whole-Head Magnetometer: Left vs. Right Hemisphere and Ipsilateral vs. Contralateral Stimulation
Authors: Pantev C. , Ross B. , Berg P. , Elbert T. , Rockstroh B.
Published: April 2003

Structural and functional asymmetries of the temporal lobe affect language development and may also play a role in a variety of disorders, ranging from specific language impairment to schizophrenia. Whole-head neuromagnetometers allow the noninvasive measurement of functional asymmetries since activity from both hemispheres is recorded simultaneously. In the present study, the location of the auditory cortices and their responsiveness to pure tones was compared between hemispheres in healthy human subjects. Data suggest a greater contralateral than ipsilateral activation. In line with previous findings, sources of responses for the right hemisphere seem to be more anterior than for the left one.
Transient-Evoked and 2F1-F2 Distortion Product Oto-Acoustic Emissions in Dogs:Preliminary Findings
Authors: Sockalingam Ravi , Filippich Lucio , Sommerlad Sue , Murdoch Bruce , Charles Bruce
Published: April 2003

Transient (click)-evoked oto-acoustic emissions (TEOAEs) and distortion product oto-acoustic emissions (DPOAEs) were recorded in a feasibility study in 7 healthy mixed-breed dogs using the ILO 92 OAE analyser (Otodynamics, Hartfield, UK). Five dogs were found to have normal hearing in both ears and 2 dogs in the left ear only following otoscopy, tympanometry and auditory brainstem response audiometry. Twelve sets of TEOAEs (click-evoked) to 80 dB peSPL click stimulus and 9 sets of DPOAEs (2F1-F2) to 8 different stimulus levels of the primary tones (L1/L2) were collected at 11 test frequencies (F2) in these normal-hearing dogs. TEOAEs were successfully recorded in 11 of the 12 ears using the default user setting and in all 12 ears using the quickscreen program. DPOAEs were successfully recorded in all 9 ears tested. While the TEOAEs parameters matched those for humans, the average signal-to-noise ratio of DPOAEs was considerably higher in the dogs. Stimulus levels at 55/55, 55/45 and 55/35 dB SPL were demonstrated to produce DPOAEs that seem to reflect the active dynamic status of the outer hair cell system. Postmortem DPOAEs at these stimulus levels and TEOAEs at 80 Db peSPL could not be elicited 5 min following euthanasia of dogs. However, DPOAEs could still be recorded albeit with reduced amplitude at stimulus levels where L1 > 55 dB SPL. The results suggest that TEOAEs and DPOAEs in dogs have the potential to provide valuable insights into their mechanisms of generation, and the specific role and behaviour of outer hair cells of the cochlea in certain pathological conditions, particularly in drug-induced ototoxicity, in humans.