bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adult self‐sufficiency and social adjustment in care leavers from children's homes: a long‐term assessment
Authors: Del Valle Jorge F. , Bravo Amaia , Alvarez Elvira , Fernanz Ana
Published: July 2007

This paper presents a study carried out in Spain that followed up 260 young people, the majority of them adults, who had been in residential care for significant periods. The follow‐up takes place between 1 and 9 years after participants had left residential care, and assesses their level of social and work integration, as well as considering the incidence of problems related to marginalization and social exclusion. Furthermore, it analyses the reasons for the child being taken into care, the socio‐family context, length of stay, changes in placement and other features or incidents in relation to the residential care. The data show that close to 15% have serious problems (drug dependence, delinquency, etc.), 25% receive help from the social services and the rest manage independently to a greater or lesser extent. We discuss the significance of these data, especially the relationship between the final result and the initial and process variables.
MEN1 gene mutations in Hungarian patients with multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1
Authors: Balogh Katalin , Hunyady Laszlo , Patocs Attila , Gergics Peter , Valkusz Zsuzsa , Toth Miklos , Racz Karoly
Published: July 2007

Objective  Multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1) is an autosomal dominant hereditary disorder associated with mutations of the MEN1 gene. MEN1 may present as a familial or a sporadic disorder, with multiple endocrine tumours including parathyroid adenomas or hyperplasias, and pancreatic endocrine and pituitary gland tumours. The aim of this study was to examine the prevalence and spectrum of MEN1 gene mutations in Hungarian patients with familial and sporadic MEN1 and in those with a MEN1‐related state.

Design  Mutation analysis, using temporal temperature gradient gel electrophoresis and direct sequencing of all coding exons and the corresponding exon–intron boundaries of the MEN1 gene, was performed.

Patients and measurements  Peripheral blood DNA was obtained from 32 patients (19 index patients with familial or sporadic MEN1 and 13 index patients with familial or sporadic MEN1‐related state). First degree relatives were also studied.

Results  Ten different MEN1 gene mutations were identified in 10 index patients, including four novel mutations (A91V, G28A and E26X all in exon 2, and L301R in exon 6). All but one mutation occurred in index patients with familial or sporadic MEN1; the prevalence of mutation was considerably higher in index patients with familial MEN1 (6/6 patients, 100%) than in those with sporadic MEN1 (3/13 patients, 23%). Of the 13 index patients with a MEN1‐related state, only one patient with recurrent isolated primary hyperparathyroidism had a MEN1 gene mutation. Family screening indicated mutations in six symptomatic and in one asymptomatic first degree relative.

Conclusion  These results confirm previous reports on the high prevalence of novel MEN1 gene mutations among patients with MEN1, and support the questionable efficacy of mutation screening in patients with sporadic MEN1‐related states.
Amniotic fluid testosterone: relationship with cortisol and gestational age
Authors: Sarkar P. , Bergman K. , Fisk N. M. , O’Connor T. G. , Glover V.
Published: July 2007

Introduction  Foetal exposure to testosterone is increasingly implicated in the programming of future reproductive and nonreproductive behaviour. Some outcomes associated with prenatal exposure to testosterone may be predicted from exposure to prenatal stress, suggesting a link between them. The peak serum levels of testosterone in the foetus are thought to be around 14–18 weeks’ gestation, and we explored testosterone levels at different gestations. Although best investigated in foetal plasma, this is now difficult because of the decline in frequency of foetal blood sampling; in this study, we used amniotic fluid as a biomarker to investigate foetal exposure.

Aims  To investigate the relationship between amniotic fluid testosterone, amniotic fluid cortisol, foetal gender, and gestational age.

Methods  Paired amniotic fluid and maternal plasma samples were collected from 264 pregnant women undergoing amniocentesis between 15 and 37 weeks’ gestation (median 17 weeks [119 days]). Total testosterone and cortisol in amniotic fluid, and total plasma testosterone (maternal) were measured by radioimmunoassay.

Results  Amniotic fluid testosterone levels were higher in male than in female foetuses, with a median (interquartile range) of 0·85 nmol/l (0·60–1·17 nmol/l) and 0·28 nmol/l (0·175–0·45 nmol/l), respectively. No relationship between amniotic fluid testosterone and gestational age was detected in either sex. Amniotic fluid testosterone correlated positively with amniotic fluid cortisol in both sexes (r = 0·30 male foetuses, r = 0·33 female foetuses, P < 0·001 for both), and remained significant in multivariate analysis.

Conclusion  Testosterone in amniotic fluid did not change with gestation in the second and third trimester, raising questions about the timing of the reported early peak in the male foetus. The positive correlation between cortisol and testosterone in amniotic fluid suggests that increased foetal exposure to cortisol may also be associated with increased exposure to testosterone.
Circulating visfatin level is correlated with inflammation, but not with insulin resistance
Authors: Oki Kenji , Yamane Kiminori , Kamei Nozomu , Nojima Hideki , Kohno Nobuoki
Published: July 2007

Objective  Recent studies, both in vitro and in vivo, have indicated that visfatin is one of the inflammatory cytokines, although the relationship between visfatin and insulin resistance remains inconclusive. Accordingly, we assessed the association between visfatin concentrations in serum and those of interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) and C‐reactive protein (CRP), known as markers of systemic inflammation, and also investigated the relationship between these serum concentrations and insulin resistance.

Design and method  A total of 295 Japanese Americans living in Hawaii (126 men and 169 women, mean age 68·7 ± 14·9 years) were enrolled. The serum levels of visfatin, IL‐6 and CRP levels were measured, and homeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA‐IR) was calculated as a marker of insulin resistance.

Results  Significant positive correlations were found between serum levels of visfatin and IL‐6 or CRP (r = 0·271, P < 0·001; r = 0·118, P < 0·05, respectively). Multiple regression analysis revealed that correlations between serum levels of visfatin and IL‐6 or CRP remained significant after adjustments for age, sex, body mass index, per cent body fat and waist girth. There was no significant trend of the HOMA‐IR for the tertiles of serum concentrations of visfatin. On the other hand, a significant trend towards increase of HOMA‐IR with increasing tertile of serum concentrations, from the lowest to the highest, was observed for both IL‐6 and CRP. The HOMA‐IR in subjects with serum concentration of IL‐6 or CRP in the highest or intermediate tertiles of IL‐6 or CRP were significantly higher than that in subjects in the lowest tertile, even after adjustment for age and sex (IL‐6: P < 0·001 and P < 0·001, respectively; CRP: P < 0·001 and P < 0·01, respectively).

Conclusion  Serum visfatin levels were positively correlated with the serum levels of IL‐6 and slightly related with serum levels of CRP, but not with HOMA‐IR, in Japanese Americans. Our results indicate that circulating visfatin may reflect inflammation status.
A novel epithelial sodium channel γ‐subunit de novo frameshift mutation leads to Liddle syndrome
Authors: Wang Yibo , Zheng Yi , Chen Jinxing , Wu Haiying , Zheng Deyu , Hui Rutai
Published: July 2007

Objective  Liddle syndrome is a rare autosomal‐dominant monogenic form of hypertension caused by mutations in the C‐termini of the epithelial sodium channel β‐ or γ‐subunit encoded by SCNN1B and SCNN1G, respectively, and often presenting with a familial history of hypertension. The purpose of this study was to determine whether mutations of SCNN1B or SCNN1G were present in a patient clinically suspected to have Liddle syndrome with no familial history of hypertension.

Design and patients  We screened the C‐terminus of SCNN1B and SCNN1G in the patient, and also screened for the mutation in his parents, 50 hypertensive patients and 50 controls.

Results  In this patient, no mutations were found in the C‐terminus of SCNN1B. However, we found a frameshift mutation caused by an ‘AGCTC’ deletion at the 583 codon in SCNN1G. The frameshift resulted in a new termination site at the 585 codon of the γ‐subunit and the deletion of its PY motif. Neither his parents nor 50 randomly selected patients with hypertension nor 50 controls have the mutation, indicating that this is a de novo mutation and not a common genetic polymorphism.

Conclusion  The de novo mutation is the first reported frameshift of the γ‐subunit causing Liddle syndrome. These data imply that a familial history of hypertension is not an essential criterion for the diagnosis of Liddle syndrome.
Replicability of physicochemistry and macroinvertebrate assemblages in stream mesocosms: implications for experimental research
Authors: HARRIS REBECCA M. L. , ARMITAGE PATRICK D. , MILNER ALEXANDER M. , LEDGER MARK E.
Published: July 2007

1. The replicability of mesocosms is assessed in a case study of artificial streams (4 m2) flanking a lowland chalk river in southern U.K. Among‐mesocosm comparisons of physicochemistry and macroinvertebrate assemblage composition (in drift and benthos) were made during a 2‐year survey of 12 outdoor once‐through linear channels.

2. Mesocosm physicochemistry was highly replicable, with statistically significant congruence in temporal variation across the mesocosm series, low spatial variation and no significant blocking or positional effects arising from mesocosm layout. Parallel physicochemistry was attributed to the outdoor stream‐side location and short water residence times.

3. Mesocosms were colonized by 127 macroinvertebrate taxa from 15 taxonomic orders. Both benthic and drifting assemblages were comparable among mesocosms, with no significant effect of mesocosm layout. Small differences in taxonomic composition were, however, evident among particular mesocosms, with higher (e.g. Tinodes, Limnius and Elmis) or lower (e.g. Pisidium and Valvata) abundances observed for a minority (5%) of taxa. We conclude that large (4 m2) outdoor flow – through mesocosms can be replicable when located near to the source system and allowed to establish naturally.
Neonatal gastric suctioning results in chronic visceral and somatic hyperalgesia: role of corticotropin releasing factor
Authors: Smith C. , Nordstrom E. , Sengupta J. N. , Miranda A.
Published: July 2007

Abstract Gastric suctioning is common in neonatal intensive care units. Studies suggest that gastric suctioning in premature infants may play a role in the development of visceral hyperalgesia. We hypothesized that repeated orogastric suctioning during the neonatal period results in chronic alterations in visceral and somatic sensation through a corticotropin‐releasing factor mediated mechanism. Neonatal male Long Evans rats (n = 13) received daily orogastric suctioning for 10 days starting at postnatal day two (P2). Control rats (n = 15) were handled similarly without orogastric suction. A second study group was subjected to a similar protocol, only with pre‐emptive administration of a CRF1 receptor antagonist (antalarmin, 20 mg/kg, IP) (n = 8). The control group received vehicle only (n = 8). An additional group was given antalarmin without suctioning (n = 5). After these rats grew to adulthood (PN 60), a visceromotor response to graded colorectal distension was recorded (10–80 mmHg, 30s, 180s inter‐stimulus intervals) to assess changes in visceral sensitivity. Paw withdrawal latency to noxious heat applied to the hind paws was measured to assess changes in cutaneous sensitivity. Orogastric suctioning during the neonatal period results in global chronic somatic and visceral hyperalgesia in adult rats. Visceral hyperalgesia is prevented by pre‐emptive administration of the CRF1 receptor antagonist, antalarmin.
Long‐term colonic hypersensitivity in adult rats induced by neonatal unpredictable vs predictable shock
Authors: Tyler K. , Moriceau S. , Sullivan R. M. , Greenwood‐van Meerveld B.
Published: July 2007

Abstract  Our goal was to examine the relationship between early life trauma and the development of visceral hypersensitivity in later life in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Rat pups underwent neonatal conditioning: (i) paired odour‐shock, where odour is a predictable shock signal, (ii) unpaired odour‐shock, where odour is an unpredictable shock signal or (iii) control odour‐only with odour presentations and handling without shock. At maturity, colorectal sensitivity was measured as a visceromotor behavioural response. In adulthood, colorectal distension (CRD) induced a pressure‐dependent increase in the number of abdominal muscle contractions all three experimental groups. However, compared to animals that had received control odour‐only presentations in infancy, there was an attenuated response to CRD in animals previously exposed to neonatal predictable shock pups and an exaggerated response in the animals previously exposed to neonatal unpredictable shock. Adult responses to CRD were altered by infant experience with shock trauma. However, depending on the context of that early life trauma, there are major differences between the long‐term effects of that early life trauma on colonic sensitivity compared to controls. These results strengthen the link between early life trauma and adult IBS, and suggest that unpredictable trauma is a critical factor for later life disorders.
Severity of Clostridium difficile‐associated diarrhea in solid organ transplant patients
Authors: Gellad Z.F. , Alexander B.D. , Liu J.K. , Griffith B.C. , Meyer A.M. , Johnson J.L. , Muir A.J.
Published: July 2007

Abstract: Clostridium difficile‐associated diarrhea (CDAD) has a wide spectrum of disease severity. Studies have implicated immunosuppressants as a risk factor for severe disease. We hypothesized that solid organ transplant (SOT) patients with CDAD would be at greater risk for severe disease because of their profound immunosuppression. Adult SOT patients with CDAD seen at Duke University Medical Center between 1999 and 2003 were compared with a reference group of non‐transplant patients with CDAD. The primary outcome was the development of complicated colitis defined as death, intensive care unit admission, or urgent colectomy within 30 days of diagnosis. A secondary outcome was relapse within 60 days. Eighty transplant and 86 non‐transplant cases were reviewed. There was no significant difference in the development of complicated colitis (13.8% vs. 7.0%) or relapse rates (6.2% vs. 7.0%) between the 2 groups. In the entire sample, 18.5% of patients receiving corticosteroids unrelated to transplantation relapsed as compared with 4.5% not receiving corticosteroids (risk ratio 4.3, P=0.02). In conclusion, no significant difference was found in severity of CDAD between SOT patients and non‐transplant patients. Exposure to corticosteroids was significantly associated with an increased risk of relapse and may warrant a longer treatment course.
Diet‐induced central obesity and insulin resistance in rabbits
Authors: Zhao S. , Chu Y. , Zhang C. , Lin Y. , Xu K. , Yang P. , Fan J. , Liu E.
Published: July 2007

The present study was designed to examine whether rabbits fed a diet containing high fat and sucrose could develop obesity and insulin resistance (IR), the major pathophysiological features of metabolic syndrome. Male Japanese white rabbits were fed either a normal chow diet (control) or high fat and sucrose diet (HFSD) for 36 weeks. Plasma levels of triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), glucose and insulin were measured. To evaluate glucose metabolism, we performed an intravenous glucose tolerance test. In addition, we compared adipose tissue accumulation in HFSD‐fed rabbits with that in normal rabbits. HFSD constantly and significantly led to an increase in body weight of HFSD‐fed rabbits, caused by significantly higher visceral adipose tissue accumulation. Although there were no differences in plasma TG, TC, glucose, insulin levels and blood pressure between the two groups, HFSD‐fed rabbits showed impaired glucose clearance associated with higher levels of insulin secretion compared to control rabbits. Our results showed that HFSD induced IR and increased adipose accumulation in rabbits, suggesting that HFSD‐fed rabbits may become a model for research on human IR and obesity.
Sand intake by laying hens and its effect on egg production parameters
Authors: Van Der Meulen J. , Kwakernaak C. , Kan C. A.
Published: July 2007

Soil intake may be the most prominent source of environmental contaminants for free range and organic hens, but there are no quantitative data concerning soil intake by domestic hens. Consumption of soil of 14–32 g a day can be estimated from literature, but such a dilution of nutrient intake seems incompatible with high productivity. In this study laying hens were fed pelleted diets with 0%, 10%, 20%, 25% and 30% of sand addition to determine its effect on productivity. Feed intake, feed and nutrient (feed minus sand) conversion ratio, egg production, egg weight and body weight gain were measured over a 4‐week period. Acid insoluble ash concentration in the faeces was measured to determine the accuracy of estimating the soil ingestion by the soil‐ingestion equation for wildlife as a way to determine soil ingestion of free range and organic hens under practical circumstances. The hens were able to compensate the dilution of the diet with 20%, 25% and 30% of sand by increasing their feed intake. Feed intake increased significantly and feed to egg conversion ratio decreased significantly with increasing sand levels in the diet. The nutrient to egg conversion ratio of the diet without sand tended to be worse than for the diets with sand, presumably due to the total absence of coarse material in the diet. There were no differences in egg production and egg weight between hens fed the different diets but body weight gain was significantly lower for the hens fed the diets with 20%, 25% and 30% of sand. Estimation of sand ingestion was done by the soil‐ingestion equation for wildlife. Provided that the actual dry matter digestibility coefficient of the nutrient part of the diet is taken into account, estimating the soil ingestion according to the soil‐ingestion equation for wildlife seems an appropriate way to determine soil ingestion for free range and organic hens under practical circumstances.
Do fungi play a role in psoriatic nails?
Authors: Szepietowski Jacek C. , Salomon Joanna
Published: July 2007

Onychomycosis is the most common disease of the nails and constitutes about a half of all nail abnormalities. Some factors like increasing age, male sex, repeated nail damage, genetic predispositions and underlying conditions, such as diabetes, immunodeficiency or peripheral arterial disease may predispose to develop onychomycosis. It is also suggested that abnormalities in nail morphology are the predisposing factors to onychomycosis. Psoriasis is one of the most common reasons of disturbed nail morphology and the spectrum of nail changes in psoriasis is very wide. Thus, there were suggestions that dystrophic nails in psoriatic patients lose their natural preventing barrier and therefore are more predisposed to fungal infection. This paper summarizes the knowledge about prevalence of onychomycosis among psoriatic patients and contains a literature review concerning this problem. Most authors report that the prevalence of onychomycosis in psoriatic patients is not higher than that in control population. However, especially yeasts and maybe moulds, probably as concomitant pathogens, are more often isolated from psoriatic patients than from non‐psoriatic population. In reasonable cases, the mycological examination is required, especially when the clinical picture of the nails suggests the presence of fungal infection. In these cases, antifungal treatment may be beneficial for psoriatic patients.
Dermatomycological guidelines: 10 years of experience in Germany
Authors: Seebacher C. , Korting H. C.
Published: July 2007

Since the mid‐1990s of the last century, dermatomycological guidelines have been prepared and published in Germany. This has been achieved by a group of experts encompassing leading representatives of Deutschsprachige Mykologische Gesellschaft, Deutsche Dermatologische Gesellschaft as well as Berufsverband Deutscher Dermatologen. Preparation of guidelines is based on a defined procedure. The first draft is prepared by one to three experts and then forwarded to all members of the working group for further discussion and improvement. This can be by way of either conventional mail or electronic mail. All aspects turning up in the process are reflected by the head of the working group and these aspects are used to prepare another version, which is again distributed to all members of the working group. Following up to three or four pertinent rounds of optimisation, a final version based on general consensus will be available at the end. All guidelines are subject to adaptation in a period of 3–5 years at the latest or if needed even earlier.
Invasive fungal infections among inpatients with acquired immune deficiency syndrome at a Chinese university hospital
Authors: Shen Yin Zhong , Qi Tang Kai , Ma Jian Xin , Jiang Xue Yan , Wang Jiang Rong , Xu Qing Nian , Huang Qin , Liu Xi Nian , Sun Hong Qing , Lu Hong Zhou
Published: July 2007

Invasive fungal infections (IFIs) have become a major cause of morbidity and mortality among people with acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS), however, little is known about the clinical features and prognosis of IFI in AIDS in China. This study aimed to characterise the clinical features and prognosis of IFI in AIDS patients in China. We retrospectively reviewed the records of all HIV‐infected patients at a Chinese university hospital between December 2004 and May 2006. We identified 35 patients with IFI. IFIs included thrush, oesophageal candidiasis, fungal pneumonia, cryptococcosis, penicilliosis and fungaemia, 44.4% of IFIs occurred in the digestive tract, 71.8% of IFIs occurred in patients with CD4+T‐lymphocyte counts <100 cells mm−3. Candida albicans accounted for 57.4% of fungal pathogens isolated. All the patients received both antiretroviral and antifungal therapy; 27 patients were cured and eight died. IFI is one of the most common opportunistic infections in AIDS patients in China. IFIs mainly occur in patients with low CD4+T‐lymphocyte counts. The majority of IFIs occur in the digestive tract. The most common pathogen causing IFI is C. albicans. The mortality rate remains high although antiretroviral therapy and many newer antifungals are available in China.
17β‐OESTRADIOL REGULATES THE EXPRESSION OF Na+/K+‐ATPase β1‐SUBUNIT, SARCOPLASMIC RETICULUM Ca2+‐ATPase AND CARBONIC ANHYDRASE IV IN H9C2 CELLS
Authors: Liu Chen‐Geng , Xu Ke‐Qian , Xu Xia , Huang Jian‐Jun , Xiao Jing‐Chuan , Zhang Jie‐Ping , Song Hui‐Ping
Published: July 2007

It is necessary to improve our understanding of the effect of 17β‐oestradiol (E2) on the heart at a molecular and cellular level. In the present study, the effects of E2 on Na+/K+‐ATPase, sarcoplasmic/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+‐ATPase (SERCA) and carbonic anhydrase IV (CAIV) in H9C2 cells were investigated. To identify the mechanism of action of E2 on these proteins, the oestrogen receptor (ER) antagonist tamoxifen was used.

The results indicated that 1 and 100 nmol/L E2 can enhance the activity of Na+/K+‐ATPase and SERCA and upregulate the expression of the Na+/K+‐ATPase β1‐subunit, SERCA2a and CAIV at both the mRNA and protein level compared with 0 and 0.01 nmol/L E2. 17β‐Oestradiol had the greatest effect at 100 nmol/L; 1 µmol/L E2 did not further protein expression compared with 100 nmol/L E2.

Tamoxifen (10 nmol/L) significantly decreased the activity of SERCA, as well as the expression of the Na+/K+‐ATPase β1‐subunit and SERCA at the mRNA and protein level, in H9C2 cells cultured with 1 nmol/L E2. Tamoxifen alone had no significant effect on these proteins in H9C2 cells.

It may be hypothesized that a suitable E2 concentration has a protective effect on the heart and that the actual dose of E2 used in hormone‐replacement therapy is important in menopausal women.
MODULATION OF SIGNAL TRANSDUCERS AND ACTIVATORS OF TRANSCRIPTION (STAT) FACTOR PATHWAYS DURING FOCAL CEREBRAL ISCHAEMIA: A GENE EXPRESSION ARRAY STUDY IN RAT HIPPOCAMPUS AFTER MIDDLE CEREBRAL ARTERY OCCLUSION
Authors: Sun Sheng‐Li , Li Tie‐Jun , Yang Peng‐Yuan , Qiu Yan , Rui Yao‐Cheng
Published: July 2007

Signal transducers and activators of transcription (STAT) factors are a family of transcription factors that mediate intracellular signalling initiated at cytokine cell surface receptors and transmitted to the nucleus. In the present study, we determined the global changes in STAT gene expression in the hippocampus of rats after focal cerebral ischaemia and reperfusion using microarray analysis.

The present study used middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) to induce ischaemia and reperfusion in Sprague‐Dawley rats. Using superarray Q series Janus tyrosine kinases (Jak)/STAT signalling pathway gene array, a total of 96 genes was screened in adult male rat hippocampus after transient focal cerebral ischaemia.

The results showed that 23 genes were upregulated at least twofold by ischaemia treatment and that 12 genes were downregulated at least threefold by ischaemia treatment compared with controls.

After confirmation by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction, the data suggest that the gene expression of STAT2, 5a, 5b, 6 and suppressor of cytokine signalling (SOCS) 4 was increased by ischaemia, probably due to a compensatory response of the brain, which may play a protective role in damaged brain tissue.

The results of the present study provide evidence on global changes in STAT gene expression in the hippocampus of rats after focal cerebral ischaemia and reperfusion, in which STAT2, 5a, 5b, 6 and SOCS4 were confirmed to be significantly modulated during focal cerebral ischaemia.
DIABETES‐INDUCED CHANGES IN 5‐HYDROXYTRYPTAMINE MODULATION OF VAGALLY INDUCED BRADYCARDIA IN RAT HEART
Authors: García Mónica , Morán Asunción , Martín M Luisa , Ortizde Urbina A Vega , San Román Luis
Published: July 2007

In the present study, we investigated how alloxan‐induced diabetes affects the ability of 5‐hydroxytryptamine (5‐HT) to modulate bradycardia induced in vivo by electrical stimulation of the vagus nerve in pithed rats. We also analysed the type and/or subtype of 5‐HT receptors involved.

Diabetes was induced in male Wistar rats with a single injection of alloxan (150 mg/kg, s.c.). Four weeks later, rats were anaesthetized, pretreated with atenolol and pithed. Electrical stimulation (3, 6 and 9 Hz) of the vagus nerve resulted in frequency dependent decreases in heart rate (HR).

In diabetic rats, intravenous bolus administration of high doses of 5‐HT (100 and 200 µg/kg) increased the bradycardia induced by vagal electrical stimulation. Similarly, low doses (10 µg/kg) of the 5‐HT1/7 receptor agonist 5‐carboxamidotryptamine (5‐CT), increased vagally induced bradycardia. However, at high doses (50, 100 and 150 µg/kg), 5‐CT reduced the bradycardia. Attenuation of the vagally induced bradycardia evoked by the higher doses of 5‐CT was reproduced by L‐694,247 (50 µg/kg), a selective agonist for the non‐rodent 5‐HT1B and 5‐HT1D receptors. Enhancement of the vagally induced bradycardia elicited by low doses of 5‐CT was reproduced by the selective 5‐HT1A receptor agonist 8‐hydroxydipropylaminotretalin hydrobromide (8‐OH‐DPAT; 50 µg/kg). These stimulatory and inhibitory actions on vagal stimulation‐induced bradycardia in diabetic rats were also observed after administration of exogenous acetylcholine.

Vagally induced bradycardia in diabetic rats was not affected by administration of the selective 5‐HT2 receptor agonist α‐methyl‐5‐HT (150 µg/kg), the selective 5‐HT3 receptor agonist 1‐phenylbiguanide (150 µg/kg) or the selective 5‐HT1B receptor agonist CGS‐12066B (50 µg/kg).

Enhancement of the electrical stimulation‐induced bradycardia in diabetic rats caused by 5‐CT (10 µg/kg) or 8‐OH‐DPAT (50 µg/kg) was abolished by the selective 5‐HT2/7 receptor antagonist mesulergine (1 mg/kg) and the selective 5‐HT1A receptor antagonist WAY‐100,635 (100 µg/kg), respectively. Similarly, pretreatment with the non‐selective 5‐HT1 receptor antagonist methiothepin (0.1 mg/kg) blocked the inhibitory effect of 5‐CT (50 µg/kg) on the bradycardia induced by vagal electrical stimulation in diabetic rats. BRL‐15572 (2 µg/kg), a selective 5‐HT1D receptor antagonist, inhibited the action of L‐694,247 (50 µg/kg), a selective agonist for the non‐rodent 5‐HT1B and 5‐HT1D receptors, on the vagally induced bradycardia.

In conclusion, in the present study, experimental diabetes evoked changes in both the nature and 5‐HT receptor types/subtypes involved in vagally induced bradycardia.
EXPRESSION OF CYP3A ISOFORMS AND P‐GLYCOPROTEIN IN HUMAN STOMACH, JEJUNUM AND ILEUM
Authors: Canaparo Roberto , Finnström Niklas , Serpe Loredana , Nordmark Anna , Muntoni Elisabetta , Eandi Mario , Rane Anders , Zara Gian Paolo
Published: July 2007

CYP3A isoforms metabolise a diverse array of clinically important drugs and P‐glycoprotein (P‐gp), a transmembrane efflux pump, can extrude a wide variety of drugs from the cell. It has been suggested that the function of CYP3A4 is complementary to that of P‐gp along the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, together forming a coordinated intestinal barrier against xenobiotics. Therefore, the expression ofCYP3A4,CYP3A5,CYP3A7andABCB1(P‐gp) genes were quantified in five normal samples from the human stomach, seven from the jejunum and eight from the ileum by real‐time reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction and western blot analysis.

In the tissues examined, measurable mRNA expression ofCYP3Awas found in almost all samples from the stomach, jejunum and ileum. The rank order forCYP3AmRNA expression wasCYP3A4 > CYP3A5 > CYP3A7in the GI tract studied, whereas median mRNACYP3A4expression was highest in the small intestine and lowest in the stomach. Expression ofABCB1mRNA was found in almost all samples and the median mRNA expression level was comparable in the jejunum and ileum, but lower in the stomach. Our data also show a significant correlation between all mRNA transcripts studied and a wide interindividual variation.

At the protein level, CYP3A4 was detected in all stomach and small intestine samples, the levels being substantially higher in the small intestine than in the stomach. P‐Glycoprotein was detected in all GI samples, but no statistically significant difference was found along the GI tract considered.

Collectively, these results demonstrate that CYP3A4 is the main CYP3A expressed in the GI tract investigated, an extensive interindividual variability in the expression of the different CYP3A isoforms in all tissues examined and P‐gp apoprotein levels similar in the stomach, jejunum and ileum.
ACTIONS OF THE ENDOCANNABINOID TRANSPORT INHIBITOR AM404 IN NEUROPATHIC AND INFLAMMATORY PAIN MODELS
Authors: Mitchell Vanessa A , Greenwood Ruth , Jayamanne Angelo , Vaughan Christopher W
Published: July 2007

Although cannabinoid receptor agonists have analgesic activity in chronic pain states, they produce a spectrum of central cannabinoid CB1 receptor‐mediated motor and psychotropic side‐effects. The actions of endocannabinoids, such as anandamide, are terminated by uptake and subsequent intracellular enzymatic degradation. In the present study, we examined the effect of acute administration of the anandamide transport inhibitor AM404 in rat models of chronic neuropathic and inflammatory pain.

Systemic administration of AM404 (10 mg/kg) reduced mechanical allodynia in the partial sciatic nerve ligation (PNL) model of neuropathic pain, but not in the complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA) model of inflammatory pain.

The effect of AM404 in the PNL model was abolished by coapplication with the selective cannabinoid CB1 receptor antagonist AM251 (1 mg/kg). AM404 did not produce a reduction in motor performance in either the PNL or CFA models.

These findings suggest that acute administration of AM404 reduces allodynia in a neuropathic pain model via cannabinoid CB1 receptor activation, without causing the undesirable motor disruption associated with cannabinoid receptor agonists.
ANGIOTENSIN II RECEPTORS SUBTYPES MEDIATE DIVERSE GENE EXPRESSION PROFILE IN ADULT HYPERTROPHIC CARDIOMYOCYTES
Authors: Zhou Juan , Xu Xin , Liu Jin‐Jun , Lin Yuan‐Xi , Gao Guang‐Dao
Published: July 2007

Although the systemic and cardiac renin–angiotensin systems are known to be activated in the setting of pressure overload, the actions and signalling mechanisms of angiotensin (Ang) II via AT1and AT2receptors in hypertrophic cardiomyocytes (CM) remain largely unclear.

Hypertrophic CM were prepared from rats with aortic banding for 8 weeks, cultured and then treated as follows: (i) 1 µmol/L AngII for 24 h; (ii) 10 µmol/L losartan (an AT1receptor antagonist) for 1 h followed by 1 µmol/L AngII for 24 h; and (iii) 10 µmol/L PD123319 (an AT2receptor antagonist) for 1 h followed by 1 µmol/L AngII for 24 h. Changes in the expression of genes following stimulation of AT1and AT2receptors specific to G‐protein‐coupled receptor (GPCR) signalling pathways were tested using GEArray (Superarray, Bethesda, MD, USA). The effects of AngII, acting via AT1and AT2receptors, on the expression of tumour necrosis factor (TNF)‐α, interleukin (IL)‐1β and IL‐6 were confirmed by reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction and radioimmunoassay.

The genes regulated via stimulation of AT1receptors were mainly restricted to the signalling pathways including cAMP/protein kinase (PK) A, Ca2+, PKC, protein tyrosine kinase, mitogen‐activated protein kinases, phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase and nuclear factor‐κB. In addition to these pathways related to activation of AT1receptors, four additional signalling pathways were found to be associated with stimulation of AT2receptors, including phospholipase C, nitric oxide/cGMP, Rho and Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription. Blockade of AT2receptors decreased the mRNA and protein expression of TNF‐α and IL‐1β, whereas blockade of AT1receptors had no such effect.

In conclusion, in hypertrophic CM, AngII leads to distinct signalling responses mediated by AT1and AT2receptors. Stimulation of AT2receptors appears to have a greater influence on GPCR‐signalling than stimulation of AT1receptors. Angiotensin II enhances the synthesis and secretion of TNF‐α and IL‐1β in hypertrophic CM, which is mediated by AT2, but not AT1, receptors.
UPREGULATED ENDOTHELIN SYSTEM IN DIABETIC VASCULAR DYSFUNCTION AND EARLY RETINOPATHY IS REVERSED BY CPU0213 AND TOTAL TRITERPENE ACIDS FROM FRUCTUS CORNI
Authors: Su Wei , Dai De‐Zai , Liu Hao‐Ran , Na Tao , Dai Yin
Published: July 2007

The aims of the present study were to examine whether: (i) upregulation of the endothelin (ET) pathway is involved in impairment of vascular relaxation and early retinopathy in diabetic rats; and (ii) vascular and retinal abnormalities respond to the total triterpene acid (TTA) isolated from Fructus Corni compared with responses to the novel endothelin receptor antagonist CPU0213 and aminoguanidine (AMG), a special antagonist for advanced glycation end‐products (AGE) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS).

Male Sprague‐Dawley rats were randomized into five groups, namely a normal control and four diabetic groups, which included an untreated diabetic group and groups treated with AMG (100 mg/kg, i.g.), CPU0213 (30 mg/kg, s.c.) or TTA (50 mg/kg, i.g.). Diabetes was induced by single injection of streptozotocin (60 mg/kg, i.p.) on the 1st day. The mRNA expression of prepro‐endothelin‐1 (ppET‐1), endothelin‐converting enzyme (ECE) and iNOS in the thoracic aorta and mRNA for ETA receptors and iNOS in the retina were detected by reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction. Vasorelaxation to acetylcholine (ACh) and functional assessment of nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability was determined in the thoracic aorta.

We observed upregulated mRNA expression of iNOS, ppET‐1 and ECE in the thoracic aorta and upregulated mRNA for the ETA receptor and iNOS in the retina in the untreated diabetic group. Vasodilatation mediated by ACh and NO bioavailability were markedly reduced in the thoracic aorta compared with the normal control group. These abnormalities were essentially reversed by TTA, CPU0213 or AMG, with the exception with that AMG did not modify vasodilatation to ACh.

These data suggest that upregulation of gene transcription of the ET system mediates depressed vasorelaxation, NO bioavailability and changes in iNOS and ETA receptors that reflect early retinopathy in diabetic rats. Total triterpene acid, in terms of pharmacological properties resembling the endothelin receptor antagonist CPU0213, is effective in normalizing expression of the ET system and iNOS in early diabetic retinopathy and vasculaopathy.
Restoring the Victorian Western (Basalt) Plains grassland. 1. Laboratory trials of viability and germination, and the implications for direct seeding
Authors: Gibson‐Roy Paul , Delpratt John , Moore Greg
Published: July 2007

Summary  The Victorian Western (Basalt) Plains grassland is one of Australia's most threatened plant communities. Practitioners using seed for its restoration need to know whether seed can be sown fresh or whether it requires an after‐ripening period. This study assessed the viability and germination of freshly harvested wild seed from 64 grassland species indigenous to the Basalt Plains of western Victoria. The seed was collected as part of a broader experiment that examined the potential of direct‐sown complex seed mixes for the restoration of grassland communities. The germination of fresh seed at 25°C varied widely between species. Comparisons with tetrazolium viability tests for each species indicated varying levels of dormancy within the species pool. Germination separated into three broad responses at day 28. One‐third of the species failed to germinate, one‐third germinated at 1% to 50% and the remaining species germinated between 51% and 100%. Therefore, if the aim of a sowing was the rapid and synchronous establishment of most of the sown species, the use of fresh seed in restoration could be problematic. After 3 months of dry storage, eight species were re‐tested for germination. Each of the selected species had shown high viability but low initial germination. Only two species significantly increased their total germination at 25°C. The annual species, Triptilodiscus pygmaeus, increased its total germination from 6% as fresh seed to 99% after dry storage. Testing the viability and germination capacity of freshly harvested seed from a large and diverse sample of native grassland species demonstrated that many of the species were unlikely to germinate rapidly or synchronously when sown in complex seed mixes soon after harvest. This finding has implications for the scheduling and management of restoration projects that rely on the use of such seed.
EARLY COMPLICATIONS OF ENDOSCOPIC SPHINCTEROTOMY FOR COMMON BILE DUCT STONES
Authors: Imaizumi Hiroshi , Kida Mitsuhiro , Takezawa Miyoko , Kikuchi Hidehiko , Saigenji Katsunori
Published: July 2007

Endoscopic sphincterotomy (EST) is the technique most commonly used to perform therapeutic endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). Recently, endoscopic papillary balloon dilatation (EPBD) has been frequently used at many hospitals instead of EST to perform procedures on the papilla. A key factor in the safe, successful outcome of therapeutic ERCP in patients with common bile duct (CBD) stones is the selection of the best‐suited procedure based on a thorough understanding of the characteristics of EST and EPBD. The most common early complications of EST are acute pancreatitis and papillary bleeding. Other complications include gastrointestinal perforation and biliary infections. However, whether EST increases the risk of acute pancreatitis remains controversial. The risk of bleeding can be decreased to some degree by the proper selection of patients, improved skills of operators, and the optimal use of peripheral devices. EST performed according to the recently developed endocut method can reduce the risk of bleeding.
WHAT'S NEW IN CHOLANGIOSCOPY? IS NARROW BAND IMAGING CHOLANGIOSCOPY THE NEXT GENERATION?
Authors: Itoi Takao , Sofuni Atushi , Itokawa Fumihide , Tsuchiya Takayoshi , Kurihara Toshio , Ishii Kentaro , Tsuji Shujiro , Moriyasu Fuminori
Published: July 2007

Narrow band imaging (NBI) makes it possible to emphasize the imaging of certain features such as mucosal structures and mucosal microvessels in gastrointestinal tract diseases. Recently, video peroral cholangioscopy (POCS) has been developed as diagnostic endoscopy for better observation of bile duct lesions, but there is no report on POCS using NBI. Herein is described the efficacy of POCS using NBI for the observation of both fine mucosal structures and tumor vessels, resulting in correct target biopsy in patients with biliary tract diseases.
RISK MANAGEMENT IN ENDOSCOPIC SUBMUCOSAL DISSECTION USING NEEDLE KNIFE IN KOREA
Authors: Jung Hwoon‐Yong , Choi Kee Don , Song Ho June , Lee Gin‐Hyug , Kim Jin‐Ho
Published: July 2007

The needle knife is used for mucosal incision during endoscopic mucosal resection (EMR). The first author has used the needle knife for EMR since 1996 to overcome several limitations. Conventional EMR is not able to be used to remove tumors >15 mm. Excessive burning effect on the margin during strip biopsy leads to misdiagnosis during evaluation of resection margins. Relatively larger specimens could be resected and resection margins evaluated effectively with EMR with needle knife. Nowadays the needle knife is used to perform endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) from mucosal incision to submucosal dissection. The advantages of needle knife are as follows: (i) the lumen of the stomach can be kept clear during the whole procedure because of less burning effect; (ii) the procedure time for ESD is short because the needle knife has a very thin body, enabling the mucosal and submucosal layer to be cut quickly; and (iii) the needle knife can provide cutting action with the tip. In contrast, the needle knife has a high potential to cause perforation during incision and dissection. Only experts can use the needle knife safely. The perforated site can be closed endoscopically using hemoclips. To prevent perforation the needle knife should be kept parallel to the gastric wall during dissection. In conclusion, the needle knife has many advantages as well as a higher risk of perforation. However, the success rate for ESD using the needle knife increases with sufficient experience.
ENDOSCOPIC PAPILLARY LARGE BALLOON DILATION AFTER ENDOSCOPIC SPHINCTEROTOMY FOR TREATMENT OF LARGE COMMON BILE DUCT STONE
Authors: Lee DongKi , Lee ByungJun , Hwhang SungJun , Baik YongHan , Lee SeJun
Published: July 2007

The extraction of large common bile duct (CBD) stones after an endoscopic sphincterotomy is successful in most cases. However, the procedure often requires a prolonged time and repeated trials, therefore, subsequent occurrence of procedure‐related complications are not uncommon. The purpose of the present paper was to investigate the utility of a combined endoscopic papillary large balloon dilation (EPLBD) preceded by a mid‐incision endoscopic sphincterotomy for the removal of large CBD stones. Stone removal was surprisingly effective with EPLBD in patients with large CBD stones. Occurrence of major complication, such as pancreatitis, bleeding, and perforation, was not observed in any patients who were treated with EPLBD. EPLBD also can be safely carried out on patients with anatomic alteration, such as a periampullary diverticulum, and on patients who have undergone a Billroth II operation. EPLBD is a landmark method of removing a large CBD stone, the impact of which is comparable to that of the introduction of endoscopic mechanical lithotripsy. However, further investigation is required to address the applications and potential outcomes of this procedure. Also, procedure guidelines should be established to avoid major complications.
ENDOCYTOSCOPY FOR ESOPHAGEAL CANCER EX VIVO
Authors: Niwa Yasumasa , Miyahara Ryoji , Matsuura Tetsuo , Iguchi Yoji , Goto Hidemi
Published: July 2007

Endocytoscopy is a novel magnifying endoscopy method that provides images of living cells. We performed endocytoscopy on the fresh esophagus with 0.5% methylene blue. The images of normal esophagus and esophageal cancer by the endocytoscopy wers consistent with the horizontal histological pictures. This new modality will show the optical biopsy under ongoing endoscopy.
NEW APPLICATION OF NARROW BAND IMAGING FOR CHOLANGIOPANCREATOSCOPY
Authors: Kida Mitsuhiro , Minamino Tsutomu , Ooka Shuhei , Takada Juichi , Miyazawa Shiro , Ikeda Hiroko , Kikuchi Hidehiko , Takezawa Miyoko , Araki Masao , Watanabe Maya , Imaizumi Hiroshi , Saigennji Katsunori
Published: July 2007

The usefulness of narrow band imaging (NBI), which is based on the principle that the depth of light penetration depends on its wavelength, has been accepted for evaluating malignant or benign lesions in the pharynx, the upper, and lower gastrointestine. The purpose of the present paper was to investigate NBI for diagnosing biliopancreatic disease. Using NBI it has become easy to detect the surface microstructure of biliary mucosa and subjacent vascular network of the bile duct, and inflammatory scarring stenosis is visualized as a whitish scar and multiple inflammatory red spots. However, bile duct cancer was detected as a stenosis with abnormal subjacent vessels and irregular surface. Concerning pancreatic duct, NBI has clearly shown vascular network and spreading of branch‐type intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasm to the main pancreatic duct. In contrast, bile juice has been detected as red fluid and bleeding as black red. Therefore, it is important to flush the biliary system before observing with NBI.
EX VIVO CASE STUDY OF ENDOCYTOSCOPY IN SUPERFICIAL ESOPHAGEAL CANCER
Authors: Kato Mototsugu , Yoshida Takeshi , Shimizu Yuichi , Asaka Masahiro , Takubo Kaiyo
Published: July 2007

Microscopic observation at the cellular level using endocytoscopy was obtained in surface mucosa of the gastrointestinal tract. This paper describes ex vivo images for endoscopically resected specimens of superficial esophageal cancer using endocytoscopy with methylene blue staining. The endocytoscopy images of cancerous and non‐cancerous sites corresponded generally with horizontal histological images. The pattern of the cellular arrangement and the size and shape of cells were similar between endocytoscopy and horizontal histological imaging. Endocytoscopy is an effective tool for diagnosis of esophageal cancer.
Habermas and Oppositional Public Spheres: A Stereoscopic Analysis of Black and White Press Practices
Authors: Huspek Michael
Published: July 2007

Drawing upon Jürgen Habermas's discourse-based theoretical approach, this article argues that his thesis regarding the bourgeois public sphere needs to be redirected so as (1) to show how sources of communicative action may have dried up within the bourgeois public sphere and (2) to explore real emancipatory alternatives that spring up as oppositional voices of subaltern groups, oriented to understanding, and expressed in contexts wherein people's upward struggles against power and domination have not yet been completed. In support of the argument, a stereoscopic analysis is conducted that focuses on public sphere practices and counter-practices – specifically those of The New York Times as exemplar participant of bourgeois publicness and the black-owned and operated New York Amsterdam News as its oppositional counterpart.