bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mathematics and Spiritual Interpretation: A Bridge to Genuine Interdisciplinarity
Authors: Glasberg Ronald
Published: May 2003

This article is a spiritual interpretation of Leonhard Euler's famous equation linking the most important entities in mathematics: e (the base of natural logarithms), π (the ratio of the diameter to the circumference of a circle), i (√‐1),1 , and 0. The equation itself (eπi+1 = 0>) can be understood in terms of a traditional mathematical proof, but that does not give one a sense of what it might mean. While one might intuit, given the significance of the elements of the equation, that there is a deeper meaning, one is not in a position to get at that meaning within the discipline of mathematics itself. It is only by going outside of mathematics and adopting the perspective of theology that any kind of understanding of the equation might be gained, the significant implication here being that the whole mathematical field might be a vast treasure house of insights into the mind of God.

In this regard, the article is a response to the monograph by George Lakoff and Rafael Núñez, Where Mathematics Comes From: How the Embodied Mind Brings Mathematics into Being (2000), which attempts to approach mathematics in general and the Euler equation in particular in terms of some basic principles of cognitive psychology. It is my position that while there may be an external basis for understanding mathematics, the results are somewhat disappointing and fail to reveal the full measure of meaning buried within that equation.
Helmut Reich's Proposal
Authors: Albright John R.
Published: May 2003

A form of logic called relational and contextual reasoning is put forward as an improvement over other, more familiar types of logic. Developmental ideas are used to show how maturity ordinarily leads people away from binary (true/false) logic to systems of reasoning that are more subtle and better suited to making decisions in the face of ambiguity.
Relational and Contextual Reasoning: Philosophical and Logical Aspects
Authors: Raman Varadaraja V.
Published: May 2003

This essay is a commentary on Helmut Reich's recently published book on relational and contextual reasoning (RCR). Reich's ideas are relevant in contexts of conflict, and they enable us to consider the notion of objectivity differently. He makes us see the constraints in individual perspectives. His book also can enable people to formulate problems of human concern in a wider and richer framework, which may lead to solutions not obtainable on the basis of binary logic.
Lung hyperpermeability and asthma prevalence in schoolchildren: unexpected associations with the attendance at indoor chlorinated swimming pools
Authors: Bernard A , Carbonnelle S , Michel O , Higuet S , de Burbure C , Buchet J-P , Hermans C , Dumont X , Doyle I
Published: May 2003

Aims:To study whether exposure to nitrogen trichloride in indoor chlorinated pools may affect the respiratory epithelium of children and increase the risk of some lung diseases such as asthma.

Methods:In 226 healthy children, serum surfactant associated proteins A and B (SP-A and SP-B), 16 kDa Clara cell protein (CC16), and IgE were measured. Lung specific proteins were measured in the serum of 16 children and 13 adults before and after exposure to NCl3in an indoor chlorinated pool. Relations between pool attendance and asthma prevalence were studied in 1881 children. Asthma was screened with the exercise induced bronchoconstriction test (EIB).

Results:Pool attendance was the most consistent predictor of lung epithelium permeability. A positive dose-effect relation was found with cumulated pool attendance and serum SP-A and SP-B. Serum IgE was unrelated to pool attendance, but correlated positively with lung hyperpermeability as assessed by serum SP-B. Changes in serum levels of lung proteins were reproduced in children and adults attending an indoor pool. Serum SP-A and SP-B were already significantly increased after one hour on the pool side without swimming. Positive EIB and total asthma prevalence were significantly correlated with cumulated pool attendance indices.

Conclusions:Regular attendance at chlorinated pools by young children is associated with an exposure dependent increase in lung epithelium permeability and increase in the risk of developing asthma, especially in association with other risk factors. We therefore postulate that the increasing exposure of children to chlorination products in indoor pools might be an important cause of the rising incidence of childhood asthma and allergic diseases in industrialised countries. Further epidemiological studies should be undertaken to test this hypothesis.
Clinical and histopathological changes of the nasal mucosa induced by occupational exposure to sulphuric acid mists
Authors: Grasel S S , Alves V A F , da Silva C S , Cruz O L M , Almeida E R , de Oliveira E
Published: May 2003

Aims:To assess potential alterations of the nasal mucosa by clinical and histopathological evaluation of workers exposed to sulphuric acid mists at anodising plants, correlating the findings with duration of exposure and sulphuric acid concentrations in the air, and comparing them with a control group.

Methods:Fifty two workers from five plants underwent a clinical evaluation (standard questionnaire, clinical, and ear, nose, and throat examination including nasal endoscopy). For the histopathological study, 20 of the 52 subjects (study group) were randomly selected, as well as 11 unexposed subjects (control group), matched by sex, age, and smoking habits. Nasal biopsy specimens were obtained from the anterior septum mucosa and the anterior curvature of the middle turbinate in each individual. A total of 56 nasal mucosa specimens (37 in the study group and 19 in the control group) were evaluated with regard to normal respiratory epithelium or metaplastic epithelium, atypia or dysplasia, and alterations of the lamina propria.

Results:The histopathological study revealed squamous metaplasia in 29 (79%) and atypia in 13 (35%) of the 37 study group samples. No association was found between exposure duration and the clinical and histopathological variables, but a significant association was found between sulphuric acid concentrations higher than 200 μg/m3and pale mucosal patches and ulcerations in the exposed subjects. Logistic regression analysis showed that the exposed subjects had a fivefold risk of developing atypia compared with the unexposed subjects.

Conclusions:Workers exposed to sulphuric acid mists presented with a high incidence of nasal symptoms, and macroscopic and microscopic changes of the nasal mucosa, including squamous atypia and dysplasia. The risk for these histopthological lesions increased with higher sulphuric acid concentrations in the air, revealing an exposure-response relation.
Radiographic abnormalities among construction workers exposed to quartz containing dust
Authors: Tjoe Nij E , Burdorf A , Parker J , Attfield M , van Duivenbooden C , Heederik D
Published: May 2003

Background:Construction workers are exposed to quartz containing respirable dust, at levels that may cause fibrosis in the lungs. Studies so far have not established a dose-response relation for radiographic abnormalities for this occupational group.

Aims:To measure the extent of radiographic abnormalities among construction workers primarily exposed to quartz containing respirable dust.

Methods:A cross sectional study on radiographic abnormalities indicative of pneumoconiosis was conducted among 1339 construction workers mainly involved in grinding, (jack)-hammering, drilling, cutting, sawing, and polishing. Radiological abnormalities were determined by median results of the 1980 International Labour Organisation system of three certified “B” readers. Questionnaires were used for assessment of occupational history, presence of respiratory diseases, and symptoms and smoking habits.

Results:An abnormality of ILO profusion category 1/0 and greater was observed on 10.2% of the chest radiographs, and profusion category of 1/1 or greater on 2.9% of the radiographs. The average duration of exposure of this group was 19 years and the average age was 42. The predominant type of small opacities (irregularly shaped) is presumably indicative of mixed dust pneumoconiosis. The prevalence of early signs of nodular silicosis (small rounded opacities of category 1/0 or greater) was low (0.8%).

Conclusions:The study suggests an elevated risk of radiographic abnormalities among these workers with expected high exposure. An association between radiographic abnormalities and cumulative exposure to quartz containing dust from construction sites was observed, after correction for potentially confounding variables.
A method to guide community planning and evaluation efforts in tobacco control using data on smoking during pregnancy
Authors: Newburn V H , Remington P L , Peppard P E
Published: May 2003

Background:Effective community based tobacco control programmes are critical for state and nationwide impact. However, there is little discussion in the literature of methods for setting local objectives which use locally collected data and account for historical variation in progress.

Objectives:To develop and illustrate a method that uses locally available birth certificate data to model trends in tobacco use during pregnancy among women giving birth, predict future prevalence, and use predictions to set community specific tobacco control objectives.

Data source:Vital statistics. Wisconsin standard birth certificates, 1990–2000, which record the smoking status of the mother during pregnancy.

Data analysis:Trends in the prevalence of smoking during pregnancy in Wisconsin statewide and in all counties (n = 72) were modelled using linear regression of log prevalence on year. Model fit was assessed using R2. Regression slopes, indicating estimated relative annual percentage change in prevalence, were used to predict prevalence in 2005, and objectives were calculated as a 20% reduction from the predicted prevalence in 2005.

Conclusions:Modelling trends in the prevalence of smoking using locally collected data enables communities to set reasonable future tobacco control objectives that account for historical trends in progress.
Tobacco industry strategies to undermine the 8th World Conference on Tobacco or Health
Authors: Muggli M E , Hurt R D
Published: May 2003

Objective:To demonstrate that Philip Morris and British American Tobacco Company attempted to initiate a wide ranging campaign to undermine the success of the 8th World Conference on Tobacco or Health held in Buenos Aires, Argentina, in 1992.

Data sources:Publicly available tobacco industry documents housed in Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Guilford, UK; on-line document websites; and telephone interviews with informed parties.

Study selection:Those documents determined to be relevant to the companies’ campaigns against the 8th World Conference on Tobacco or Health.

Data extraction:Revision of chapter VIII of the July 2000 WHO report by a committee of experts, entitled:Tobacco company strategies to undermine tobacco control activities at the World Health Organization: report of the committee of experts on tobacco industry documents.

Data synthesis:Internal documents describe proposed media and science orientated campaigns developed by BAT, Philip Morris, and their consultants to divert attention away from the conference.

Results and conclusion:This work shows that the tobacco industry has the resources and vested interest to combat perceived threats in its regional operating markets, in this case its Latin American market. It is important for the worldwide public heath community to become aware of the numerous ways in which the tobacco industry and its front groups can work against international tobacco control meetings, even including the manipulation of or working with other public health groups to oppose tobacco control efforts. Future world conference planners and participants should be aware that the tobacco industry is likely to continue to employ such methodology. There is no reason to think that the industry is paying less attention to such conferences in the present or future. Rather, it is likely the industry will adopt and expand strategies that were successful while abandoning those that were not effective. Required disclosure of financial support by all participants at all tobacco scientific conferences is recommended. For the tobacco control community, we also recommend careful coalition building and networking with other public health groups on the ways tobacco is implicated in other public health issues.
Development and destruction of the first state funded anti-smoking campaign in the USA
Authors: Tsoukalas T H , Glantz S A
Published: May 2003

Background:Minnesota was the first state in the USA to implement a large state funded tobacco control programme (in 1985). Despite evidence of effectiveness, it was dismantled in 1993.

Objective:To describe and analyse how and why these events transpired and identify lessons for tobacco control advocates facing similar challenges in the 21st century.

Design:Case study based on previously secret tobacco industry documents, news reports, research reports, official documents, and interviews with health advocates and state government officials.

Results:Unable to defeat funding for this campaign in 1985, the tobacco industry organised groups which eliminated it later. Despite the programme’s documented effectiveness, it was dismantled based on claims of fiscal crisis. These claims were not true; the real debate was what to do with the state’s surplus. Health advocates failed to challenge the claim of fiscal crisis or mobilise public support for the programme.

Conclusions:Simply quoting evidence that a tobacco control programme is effective does not ensure its continuing survival. Claims of fiscal crisis are an effective cover for tobacco industry efforts to dismantle successful programmes, particularly if health advocates accept these claims and fail to mobilise political pressure to defend the programme.
Three soliloquies on tobacco industry funding of university research
Authors: Kozlowski L T
Published: May 2003

The view on tobacco industry funding for university research, from three very differing perspectives
Lupus-erythematosus-Like Eruption Induced by Trichophyton mentagrophytes Infection
Authors: Boralevi F. , Léauté-Labrèze C. , Roul S. , Couprie B. , Taïeb A.
Published: May 2003

Background: Several factors are known to trigger acute manifestations of lupus erythematosus (drugs, ultraviolet radiation, bacterial or viral infections, pregnancy), but fungal infections have never been reported to induce lupus-like lesions. We describe 2 children with tinea capitis caused by Trichophyton mentagrophytes (TM), who developed transient skin and serological manifestations of systemic lupus erythematosus. Patients: Case 1, a 3-year-old girl, had a kerion due to TM transmitted by an octodon, and a facial skin eruption suggestive of systemic lupus erythematosus. Antinuclear antibodies (ANA) were positive at 1:250. After griseofulvin treatment, the lupus-like rash completely regressed, and the ANA titre decreased. Case 2, a 4-year-old girl, had occipital kerion and an annular scaly erythema on the shoulder caused by TM. She also had a non-scaly rash on the face and a recent history of photosensitivity. The ANA titre was positive at 1:8,000. Cutaneous lesions disappeared after an 8-week griseofulvin therapy, and ANA titres decreased progressively. Conclusions: ‘New pets’ are usually the vectors of TM, especially familiar rodents like the degu of Chile (also named octodon). In our 2 cases, lupus-like rashes began before the onset of griseofulvin treatment, suggesting a pathogenic role of the dermatophyte. A wide variety of lesions named ‘mycides’ was described several decades ago associated with TM infections. We hypothesize that these mycides and the TM-induced lupus-like lesions reported in our 2 cases could represent the same entity.
Intramuscular Alefacept Improves Health-Related Quality of Life in Patients with Chronic Plaque Psoriasis
Authors: Finlay A.Y. , Salek M.S. , Haney J. , for the Alefacept Clinical Study Group f
Published: May 2003

Background: Psoriasis profoundly affects patient quality of life (QOL). Amevive® (alefacept), a novel and selective biologic agent, was clinically effective and significantly improved QOL in a phase 2 study. Methods: The present placebo-controlled, randomized phase 3 study examined the effects of a 12-week course of intramuscular alefacept on QOL in 507 patients with chronic plaque psoriasis using both dermatology-specific questionnaires [Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI); Dermatology Quality of Life Scales (DQOLS)] and the Short Form-36TM Health Survey (SF-36), a generic, general health questionnaire. Results: All 3 QOL measures (DLQI, DQOLS, SF-36) demonstrated that alefacept 15 mg was significantly more effective than placebo in improving QOL in patients with chronic plaque psoriasis. In addition, the improvements in QOL for patients in the alefacept 15 mg group were of similar magnitude for all 3 QOL measures. Conclusion: The findings of this study are an important addition to the QOL literature for psoriasis treatments.
Primary Cutaneous CD30+ Large T-Cell Lymphoma in a Patient with Psoriasis Treated with Cyclosporine
Authors: Corazza M. , Zampino M.R. , Montanari A. , Altieri E. , Virgili A.
Published: May 2003

We report the case of a 61-year-old woman who developed an anaplastic CD30+ cutaneous T-cell lymphoma during oral cyclosporine (CsA) therapy for recalcitrant psoriasis. Two months after CsA discontinuation, clinical and histological resolution of the lymphoma was observed. However, 3 years later extracutaneous involvement of the lymphoma could be detected. The association between CsA administration and the occurrence of the lymphoma may be casual, but a relationship with immunosuppression may also be hypothesized. We have reviewed all relevant data in the literature. To our knowledge, this is the first case of primary cutaneous CD30+ anaplastic large T-cell lymphoma in a patient treated with CsA for psoriasis.
Transformation between Kaposiform Hemangioendothelioma and Tufted Angioma
Authors: Chu Chia-Yu , Hsiao Cheng-Hsiang , Chiu Hsien-Ching
Published: May 2003

Kaposiform hemangioendothelioma and tufted angioma are viewed as two separate disease entities in the current classification of vascular tumors. However, the concurrence of features of both vascular tumors in the same specimen of some patients raises the question whether these tumors exist on a continuum. Herein, we report a dynamic transformation between both tumors within a single patient, which suggests they are two variants of the same vascular tumor.
Nudging Epidermal Field Cancerogenesis by Imiquimod
Authors: Uhoda Isabelle , Quatresooz Pascale , Piérard-Franchimont Claudine , Piérard Gérald E.
Published: May 2003

Background: The coexistence of malignancies close to each other on the skin has been occasionally reported. The concept of field cancerogenesis applies to such cases. Given the purported mechanism of action of imiquimod, it should not be surprising that this treatment could inhibit epidermal field cancerogenesis. Aim: To assess the effect of imiquimod applied twice weekly on incipient bowenoid changes disclosed in the vicinity of basal cell carcinomas. Materials and Method: Biopsies were taken before treatment and after 4–6 weeks and 12 weeks of imiquimod treatment. Results: Large atypical bowenoid keratinocytes and dyskeratotic cells were cleared in time while factor-XIIIa-positive dermal dendrocytes appeared boosted and admixed with a brisk lymphocytic infiltration. Conclusion: Epidermal field cancerogenesis appears to be controlled by imiquimod. Dermal dendrocytes might play a pivotal role in this regression phenomenon.
Factor-XIIIa-Positive Dendrocytes in Drug-Induced Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (Lyell’s Syndrome): Paradoxical Activation in Skin and Rarefaction in Lymph Nodes
Authors: Paquet Philippe , Quatresooz Pascale , Piérard Gérald E.
Published: May 2003

Background: Drug-induced toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) is a rare life-threatening disease characterized by the extensive destruction of the epidermis contrasting with the discreteness of lymphoid cell infiltration. The precise pathomechanism of the disease remains unclear. Methods: Skin specimens and peripheral and thoracic lymph nodes (LNs) were collected from 2 TEN patients. They were examined by conventional histology and immunohistochemistry using antibodies directed to factor XIIIa (dermal dendrocytes), CD1a (Langerhans cells), CD15 (granulocytes), CD20 (B lymphocytes), CD45RO (activated T lymphocytes), CD68 (macrophages) and the proliferation marker Ki-67. LNs from patients with mycosis fungoides, from subjects dead from acute cardiac failure or traumatic injuries, as well as metastasis-free sentinel LNs of cutaneous melanoma served as positive and negative controls. Results: TEN LNs showed absence of germinal centers but a moderate hyperplasia of the paracortical T cell zone. Immunohistochemistry did not reveal any distinctive aspect in LN cellular densities between TEN and other control conditions except for the factor-XIIIa+ dendritic cells which were dramatically reduced in numbers in TEN LNs. This rarefaction in LNs contrasted with the great number of these cells in the skin of the same patients. Conclusion: The structure of TEN LNs rules out the involvement of an antibody-mediated response. As dendritic factor-XIIIa+ cells are involved in most cutaneous T-cell-mediated responses, their depletion in TEN LNs could explain the sparse lymphoid cell infiltrate in lesional TEN skin.
Thalidomide in Refractory Vulvar Ulcerations Associated with Crohn’s Disease
Authors: Kolivras Athanassios , De Maubeuge Josiane , André Josette , Song Micheline
Published: May 2003

We report a case of recurrent vulvar ulcerations developed on vegetations associated with Crohn’s disease. Lesions responded to low-dose thalidomide treatment. A biopsy revealed a neutrophilic infiltrate with rare giant cells. Vulvar manifestations were consistent with metastatic Crohn’s disease or with a reactive neutrophilic dermatitis. Thalidomide reduces the activity of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) α by accelerating the degradation of its mRNA. Nowadays, it has become a promising drug in a broad variety of disorders in which TNF-α seems to play a pivotal role, including inflammatory bowel diseases. This is the first case report presenting the efficacy of thalidomide in the treatment of vulvar involvement in Crohn’s disease.
Glucocorticoids and Inflammation Revisited: The State of the Art
Authors: Franchimont Denis , Kino Tomoshige , Galon Jerome , Meduri Gianfranco Umberto , Chrousos George
Published: May 2003

Glucocorticoids have been used in the treatment of inflammatory and autoimmune diseases and to prevent graft rejection for over 50 years. These hormones exert their effects through cytoplasmic, heat shock protein-bound glucocorticoid receptors that translocate into the nucleus, where they regulate the transcriptional activity of responsive genes by binding to specific promoter DNA sequences (transactivation) or by interacting with transcription factors (transrepression). By interacting with different signaling pathways, newly characterized nuclear receptor coregulators enhance or diminish the actions of glucocorticoids, thus explaining the gene-, cell-, tissue- and context-dependent actions of glucocorticoids. Glucocorticoids modulate genes involved in the priming of the innate immune response, while their actions on the adaptive immune response are to suppress cellular [T helper (Th)1-directed] immunity and promote humoral (Th2-directed) immunity and tolerance. The past decade has produced new insights into the mechanisms of glucocorticoid sensitivity and resistance of inflammatory, autoimmune and allergic diseases. Both the quality and severity of the inflammatory stimulus, as well as the genetics and constitution of the patient, play key roles in the glucocorticoid sensitivity, dependency and resistance of these diseases. Although glucocorticoids increase susceptibility to opportunistic infections, they are also highly beneficial in the presence of serious systemic inflammation, such as that observed in septic shock and acute respiratory distress syndrome, when administered in a sustained fashion throughout the course of the disease. Glucocorticoids produce their cardiovascular, metabolic and antigrowth side effects through molecular mechanisms distinct from those involved in immunomodulation. Fortunately, the first generation of tissue- and immune- versus cardiovascular/metabolic effect-selective glucocorticoids is available for study and further improvement. ‘Designer’ glucocorticoids promise to be a great new advance in the therapy of inflammatory diseases.
Neuroimmunomodulatory Effects of Morphine in Leishmania donovani-Infected Hamsters
Authors: Singal Priya , Kinhikar Arvind G. , Singh Savita , Singh Prati Pal
Published: May 2003

Objective: The effect of morphine on host defense during Leishmania donovani infection in golden hamsters was studied. Methods: Hamsters were intracardially infected with L. donovani amastigotes and then monitored by spleen touch print microscopic examination. Morphine and naloxone were administered subcutaneously and intraperitoneally, respectively. Leukocytes were counted by a hemocytometer, and ex vivo phagocytosis was determined by the examination of stained adherent macrophages. Results: Low doses of morphine, 1.75 and 2.5 mg/kg × 2, administered subcutaneously on day 0 and day 15 significantly (p < 0.05) suppressed the infection, whereas high doses (20.0 and 50.0 mg/kg × 2) exacerbated the infection. On day 30, hamsters treated with low doses of morphine showed a significant (p < 0.05) increase in the number of circulating leukocytes and the pool size and phagocytic activity of peritoneal macrophages ex vivo; in hamsters treated with high doses, all these parameters appeared to be diminished. The bone marrow of morphine-treated hamsters showed a fall in total cellularity and no change in the number of monocytes; however, in those treated with low doses, the infection was completely eliminated by day 30, and paradoxically, a significant (p < 0.05) potentiation of infection was observed in hamsters treated with high doses. The spleens of hamsters treated with both low and high doses of morphine showed a significant (p < 0.05) decrease and increase in weight, respectively; treatment with low doses also caused an almost 2-fold increase in the percentage of monocytes. Morphine apparently exerted its protective effects via naloxone-sensitive opioid receptors; naloxone pretreatment did not affect the potentiation of infection. Conclusion: Conditional doses of morphine apparently biphasically modulated the course of L. donovani infection in hamsters, at least in part through macrophage-mediated mechanisms.
Brain Activation of Monocyte-Lineage Cells: Involvement of Interleukin-6
Authors: Shafer Lisa L. , McNulty John A. , Young M. Rita I.
Published: May 2003

Immune processes such as phagocytosis of debris and antigen presentation can be damaging to the function and survival of brain cells. Understanding what conditions and factors mediate immune processes in the brain is central to ameliorating the pathology associated with brain injury and disease. The elevation of secreted interleukin (IL)-6 is a common feature of brain injury and neurodegenerative pathology. Using organotypic brain slice coculture, the effects of brain-derived soluble factors on immune functions in the BV2 microglial cell line were studied. We have previously shown that brain-derived soluble factors upregulated phagocytic activity and class II major histocompatibility complex (MHC II) expression and altered BV2 morphology in a manner selective for microglia and not peripheral macrophages. The present study used IL-6-neutralizing antibody to show that brain-derived IL-6 was at least partially responsible for the brain coculture-induced upregulation of MHC II expression in the BV2 microglia. Additionally, IL-6 upregulated phagocytic activity and induced morphological changes in the BV2 cells similar to brain coculture. These effects were selective for microglia, as they were not observed in peripheral macrophage cell types. The ability of IL-6-neutralizing antibody to downregulate MHC II expression while maintaining enhanced phagocytic activity could potentially evade an antagonizing immune response associated with brain injury or disease.
Anterior Hypothalamic Lesions Inhibit Antigen-Induced Airway Eosinophilia in Rats
Authors: Irie Masahiro , Nagata Shoji , Endo Yutaka
Published: May 2003

Objective: Although previous studies have found that electrolytic lesions of the anterior hypothalamic area (AHA) resulted in the suppression of anaphylaxis, their effect on late allergic responses has scarcely been investigated. To clarify the role of the AHA on possible late asthmatic responses, including their neuroendocrinological mechanisms, we examined the effect of electrolytic AHA lesions on antigen-induced eosinophilic infiltration into the airway tract and measured the plasma corticosterone and catecholamine levels in sensitized rats, i.e. a model of bronchial asthma. Methods: The rats were randomly divided into 3 groups, including: (1) an unoperated control group; (2) a sham AHA-lesioned group and (3) an AHA-lesioned group. Then, we investigated antigen-induced eosinophilic infiltration into right bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and the lamina propria mucosae of the left main bronchus. Results: The AHA-lesioned group showed the significantly lowest number of eosinophils in both the BALF (p < 0.01) and the main bronchus (p < 0.05). The plasma adrenaline levels in the AHA-lesioned group were significantly higher than those in the other groups (p < 0.05). No differences were found in the plasma corticosterone or noradrenaline levels among the 3 groups. Conclusion: This study provides evidence that AHA lesions inhibit not only anaphylaxis, but also late asthmatic response related to airway eosinophilic infiltration, possibly via an alteration of the sympathetic nervous function.
Noninvasive Monitoring of Cerebral Oxygenation during Vasomotor Reactivity Tests by a New Near-Infrared Spectroscopy Device
Authors: Terborg Christoph , Birkner Thomas , Schack Bärbel , Weiller Cornelius , Röther Joachim
Published: May 2003

Background: Spatially resolved spectroscopy is a recently developed technique for noninvasive monitoring of cerebral tissue oxygenation using the photon diffusion theory. Methods: We studied this technique with a new, commercial near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) device during vasomotor reactivity tests in 28 healthy volunteers (mean age 31.0 years; SD 10.6 years) and compared it with values assessed by the modified Beer-Lambert law and indices from simultaneous transcranial Doppler sonography of both middle cerebral arteries. We measured O2 reactivity as percentage change of cerebral blood flow velocity (CBFV), as absolute change in the concentrations (measured in µmol/l) of oxygenated (HbO2), deoxygenated (Hb) and total hemoglobin (HbT), and as change in the tissue oxygenation index (TOI) during inhalation of 100% oxygen. CO2 reactivity was calculated as percentage change of CBFV (NCR), as absolute change in the concentrations of HbO2, Hb, and HbT (µmol/l), and as change in TOI (%) per 1% increase in end-tidal CO2. Results: One hundred percent oxygen inhalation lead to a decrease in CBFV (mean ± SD: left –8.0 ± 7.0%, p = 0.000; right –9.6 ± 7.6%, p = 0.000), an increase in HbO2 (0.99 ± 1.07 µmol/l), Hbdiff (2.23 ± 1.72 µmol/l), and TOI (3.1 ± 1.5%), and a decrease in Hb (–1.22 ± 0.74 µmol/l), significant from baseline values (p = 0.0000). CO2 reactivity was: NCR left 25.4 ± 14.7%; NCR right 25.9 ± 13.4%; HbO2 1.99 ± 0.97 µmol/l; Hb –1.24 ± 0.81 µmol/l; HbT 0.81 ± 1.0 µmol/l, and TOI 3.7 ± 2.2%. O2 reactivity in TCD did not correlate with NIRS reactivities (Pearson p > 0.05), but NCR did correlate with changes in HbO2, Hb, and TOI (Pearson p < 0.01). TOI was closely related to indices derived from the Beer-Lambert law (Pearson p < 0.03), but not with mean arterial blood pressure or skin blood flow during vasomotor reactivity tests. Conclusion: Spatially resolved spectroscopy provides an encouraging, noninvasive new tool to study cerebral tissue oxygenation during vasomotor reactivity tests consistent with physiological changes.
Prothrombin G20210A Mutation, but Not Factor V Leiden, Is a Risk Factor in Patients with Persistent Foramen ovale and Otherwise Unexplained Cerebral Ischemia
Authors: Lichy C. , Reuner K.H. , Buggle F. , Litfin F. , Rickmann H. , Kunze A. , Brandt T. , Grau A.
Published: May 2003

Background: Paradoxical embolism via persistent foramen ovale (PFO) is suspected to be a frequent cause of stroke in younger patients. We investigated whether the prevalence of the risk factors for venous thrombosis factor V Leiden (FVL) and prothrombin G20210A mutation (PT G20210A) is increased in this group of patients. Methods: We examined FVL and PT G20210A mutation in 220 patients (group 1) with cerebral ischemia associated with a PFO and without other etiology, in 196 patients with cerebral ischemia of an etiology other than PFO (group 2), and in 362 healthy subjects (group 3) from the same region in Germany. Results: Heterozygosity for the PT G20210A mutation was more common in group 1 (5.0%) than in group 3 (1.4%; sex- and age-adjusted odds ratio 3.66; 95% CI 1.25–10.75; p = 0.01). By contrast, the mutation was not more common in group 2 (2.6%; odds ratio 1.50; 95% CI 0.42–5.41; p = 0.5). Prevalences of FVL were not different between groups. Conclusions: We identified PT G20210A but not FVL – the strongest genetic risk factor for deep venous thrombosis – to be significantly associated with stroke attributed to PFO. These findings rise doubts about the concept of paradoxical brain embolism as the dominating mechanism in stroke associated with PFO.
Imipramine-Induced Antinociception in the Formalin Test
Authors: Zarrindast Mohammad-Reza , Vousooghi Nasim , Sahebgharani Mousa
Published: May 2003

This study concerned the effect of swim stress on imipramine-induced antinociception in mice. The data showed that intraperitoneal (i.p.) administration of different doses of imipramine (10–40 mg/kg) and 0.5–3 min of swim stress (17°C) induced antinociception in the first and second phases of the formalin test. Low period of swim stress (10 s) with low doses of imipramine (2.5, 5 and 10 mg/kg i.p.), which did not have any effect by themselves, in combination showed antinociception in the second phase of the test. Either yohimbine (0.5 mg/kg i.p.) or naloxone (1 mg/kg i.p.) reversed the response induced by the combination of low doses of imipramine plus swim stress. Yohimbine (1 mg/kg i.p.) decreased the response of imipramine (20 mg/kg i.p.) but not that of 30 s swim stress in the second phase. However, naloxone (1 mg/kg i.p.) reduced the antinociception induced by imipramine (20 mg/kg i.p.) or 30 s swim stress in the second phase of the test, the combination of imipramine with swim stress was not altered by yohimbine or naloxone. Prazosin induced antinociception by itself in the first phase of the test and increased swim-stress-induced antinociception with no interaction. It is concluded that antinociception induced by imipramine in the second phase of formalin test may be mediated through α2-adrenoceptor antagonists. The results indicate that the responses of swim stress and imipramine may be mediated by an opioid mechanism, but the combination of both drugs induced higher antinociceptive effects.
Effects of Magnesium Sulfate on Tissue Lactate and Malondialdehyde Levels after Cerebral Ischemia
Authors: Bariskaner H. , Ustun M.E. , Ak A. , Yosunkaya A. , Ulusoy H.B. , Gurbilek M.
Published: May 2003

In the present study, the effects of magnesium sulfate on tissue lactate and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels after cerebral ischemia in rabbits were studied. The rabbits were divided equally into three groups. Group 1 (n = 8) was the sham-operated control group, in group 2 (n = 8) only cerebral ischemia was induced by clamping bilaterally the common carotid arteries for 60 min, and in group 3 (n = 8) magnesium sulfate was administered at a dose of 100 mg/kg i.v. within 5 min after opening the clamps. In group 1 EEG recordings were obtained immediately and 60 and 120 min after craniectomy. In groups 2 and 3 EEG recordings were obtained immediately after craniectomy but before clamping and 60 min after clamping. One hour after opening the clamps and taking EEG recordings, brain cortices were resected, and the concentrations of lactate and MDA were determined using spectrophotometric/enzymatic and thiobarbituric acid methods, respectively. In all groups, there were significant differences between MDA and lactate levels (p < 0.05). There were no significant differences in lactate levels between groups 2 and 3 (p > 0.05), and also the preischemic EEG grades were the same in all groups. Preischemic and postischemic EEG values were significantly different (p < 0.05), and there were also significant differences between postischemic EEG grades in groups 2 and 3 (p < 0.05). There was a correlation between postischemic EEG grades and MDA and lactate levels. These results demonstrate that cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury leads to an increase in brain tissue lactate and MDA levels, that magnesium sulfate suppresses the increase of MDA and lactate concentrations, and that magnesium sulfate treatment improves the EEG changes. The EEG grades correlated well with MDA and lactate levels.
‘Invisible’ Microscopic Endometriosis: A Review
Authors: Redwine David B.
Published: May 2003

Endometriosis can have very subtle visual appearances. All theories of origin imply some early and presumably tiny form of the disease which potentially cannot be detected by the unaided human eye. A review of the literature indicates that with increasing magnification at surgery, virtually all endometriosis can be visualized. Invisible microscopic endometriosis is an unproven entity which retards intellectual progress in the study of this disease.
On the Use of Classical Naturopathy and Complementary Medicine Procedures in Hospitals and Clinics Practicing Gynecology and Obstetrics in Germany
Authors: Beer A.-M. , Ostermann T.
Published: May 2003

Background: Classical naturopathy and complementary medicine proceduresare used in all industrial countries, the only difference being the extent to which they are used. However, information pertaining to effects, safety and costs of such therapies remains incomplete. An important aim of this study was to establish to what extent women’s hospitals and clinics in Germany adopt complementary medicine and naturopathy as a means of treatment and how often they are used and by whom. Materials and Methods: In a questionnaire regarding the use of complementary medicine and naturopathy, we contacted 1,054 gynecology/obstetrics institutions. Of the 1,054 contacted, 481 (45.6%) of the returned questionnaires could be analyzed and evaluated using descriptive statistical methods. Results: Altogether per clinic an average of four different complementary medicine therapies was named which were used in the field of gynecology and obstetrics. Acupuncture (used in 94.1% of responding clinics) and homeopathy (used in 83.0% of responding clinics) were without doubt the two procedures that were used most often. Clear differences regarding both choice of therapy and frequency of use of a given therapy could be seen when comparing areas of the former German Democratic Republic (GDR) with those of the former Federal Republic of Germany (FRG). No differences could be found pertaining to the comparison of university and non-university hospitals. Conclusion: Interesting tendencies could be seen regarding the willingness of hospital departments to widen their therapy spectrum by adopting complementary medicine procedures. These in turn led us to valuable conclusions as to the various strategies of patient care. Given the frequency of use of complementary medicine therapies in the field of gynecology and obstetrics, it must surely be concluded that research into complementary medicine approaches in such areas must be intensified.
The AluI Calcitonin Receptor Gene Polymorphism (TT) Is Associated with Low Bone Mineral Density and Susceptibility to Osteoporosis in Postmenopausal Women
Authors: Tsai Fuu-Jen , Chen Wen-Chi , Chen Huey-Yi , Tsai Chang-Hai
Published: May 2003

Osteoporosis is a common disorder with a strong genetic component. Our aim was to evaluate the correlation of theAluI calcitonin receptor gene polymorphism to bone mineral density and their relationship to osteoporosis. We determined the AluI calcitonin receptor gene polymorphism using polymerase chain reaction-based restriction analysis in 167 postmenopausal women in Taiwan. The polymorphism was detected by the restriction enzyme AluI, where the C allele indicated the absence of the cuttable site and the T allele indicated its presence. Bone mineral density of the lumbar spine and proximal femur were measured using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. The allelic frequencies for the 167 postmenopausal women in Taiwan were 86.5% for C and 13.5% for T in AluI restriction fragment length polymorphisms. The prevalence of each genotype in the study population was 2.4% TT, 22.2% CT, and 75.4% CC. The three genotypic groups differed significantly in unadjusted and adjusted bone mineral density at the lumbar spine and the femoral neck. Unadjusted and adjusted bone mineral density values were lowest in women with the TT genotype. The AluI calcitonin receptor genotype showed a positive association with prevalence of osteoporosis in the subjects. That is, women with genotype TT had a greater risk for developing osteoporosis at the lumbar spine and at the femoral neck. The AluI calcitonin receptor gene polymorphism is associated with reduced bone mineral density and predisposes women to osteoporosis, but should be interpreted with caution because of the small number of subjects in the unfavorable TT genotype.
Primary Omental Pregnancy Presenting with Hemorrhagic Shock
Authors: Ozdemir Ismail , Demirci Fuat , Yucel Oguz , Alper Murat
Published: May 2003

Abdominal pregnancy is a very rare and serious type of extrauterine gestation that accounts for approximately 0.003% of all ectopic pregnancies. Omental pregnancy, an extremely rare form of abdominal pregnancy, can be primary or secondary to a tubal pregnancy that aborts out of the fimbria and reimplants in the peritoneal cavity. We present an additional case of primary omental pregnancy at 12 gestational weeks presenting with symptoms of hemoperitoneum and acute abdomen.
Regulation of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor by Tamoxifen in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Mueller Michael D. , Pritts Elizabeth A. , Zaloudek Charles J. , Dreher Ekkehard , Taylor Robert N.
Published: May 2003

Objective: To evaluate the effects of tamoxifen on human endometrial vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) gene expression in vitro and in vivo. Study Design: Ishikawa cells were transiently co-transfected with plasmids expressing human estrogen receptor (ER)-α or -β and a 2.3-kb human VEGF promoter-luciferase construct. Transfected cells were treated with tamoxifen and the increase in luciferase activity was compared to controls. In addition, immunohistochemical analysis of VEGF expression in endometrial biopsies from 11 postmenopausal women receiving tamoxifen was compared to 24 postmenopausal women on no hormone replacement. Results: In transfected cells expressing ERα, tamoxifen induced a significant VEGF promoter activation (3.2-fold, p < 0.01), whereas cells expressing ERβ showed a 1.6-fold stimulation (p = NS). No significant differences in VEGF immunostaining were observed in tamoxifen-exposed women. Conclusions: Although tamoxifen exposure increases VEGF expression in vitro, a significant increase in VEGF expression is not apparent in endometrial biopsies of postmenopausal women treated with this drug.
Cohort Study of Advanced IgA Nephropathy: Efficacy and Limitations of Corticosteroids with Tonsillectomy
Authors: Sato Mitsuhiro , Hotta Osamu , Tomioka Sachiko , Horigome Ikuo , Chiba Shigemi , Miyazaki Mariko , Noshiro Hiroo , Taguma Yoshio
Published: May 2003

Background: Elevated serum creatinine is associated with poor outcome in IgA nephropathy (IgAN). The efficacy and limitations of corticosteroids in advanced IgAN (Cr ≧1.5 mg/dl), however, remains controversial. Methods: We retrospectively investigated 70 patients with advanced IgAN (Cr ≧1.5 mg/dl) classified into three groups according to their treatment regimens, that is, steroid pulse with tonsillectomy, conventional steroid, and supportive therapy. We evaluated the three groups to elucidate predictors for the endpoints ESRF and doubled serum creatinine from baseline. Results: Steroid pulse with tonsillectomy, conventional steroid and supportive therapy were performed in 30, 25 and 15 patients, respectively. During the mean follow-up period of 70.3 (12–137) months, 41.4% of patients reached ESRF (13.3 vs. 56.0 vs. 73.3%, p < 0.001) and 45.7% doubled serum creatinine from baseline (16.7 vs. 64.0 vs. 73.3%, p < 0.001). The incidence of ESRF in the patients treated by steroid pulse with tonsillectomy was significantly lower than the incidences in the patients treated by conventional steroid and supportive therapy at a baseline creatinine level of 1.5–2 mg/dl, but no statistical difference was observed at a level of >2 mg/dl. The Kaplan-Meier estimated probability of renal survival without ESRF was 89.2, 74.1 and 72.2% at 5 years and 82.8, 51.0 and 45.1% at 8 years, respectively (p = 0.017). The predictors for ESRF, identified in a Cox proportional hazards model, were baseline serum creatinine (p < 0.001) and interstitial infiltrate (p = 0.003). Steroid pulse with tonsillectomy also had a protective effect on the risk of reaching ESRF (p = 0.013). By target cross-stratification, the patients with baseline creatinine of 1.5–2 mg/dl who underwent steroid pulse with tonsillectomy showed a better renal survival rate than the others (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Steroid pulse therapy combined with tonsillectomy may be more effective than conventional steroid therapy in patients with a baseline creatinine level of ≤2 mg/dl.
Targeting Ras Genes in Kidney Disease
Authors: Hendry Bruce M. , Sharpe Claire C.
Published: May 2003

Certain changes in cellular function are characteristic of renal disease. Foremost among these is the excessive proliferation of cells, but other phenotypic changes include dysregulated apoptosis, migration, adhesion, contraction, secretion, and receptor expression. Recent advances in cell biology have revealed an extensive role for the small monomeric GTPases of the Ras superfamily in the control of these cellular events through intracellular signalling cascades. The specific Ras genes appear to play discrete and identifiable roles in a range of complex signalling networks. These insights lead to the possibility of targeting Ras genes in a specific manner in renal therapies. For example, the process of renal cell proliferation might be sensitive to downregulation of Harvey Ras and Kirsten Ras; targeting of Rho A and related species may modulate cell migration, fibrosis, and intrarenal vasoconstriction. Possible strategies for such modulation could include the use of RNA-interacting agents such as antisense DNA and si-RNA and the use of small molecules acting on Ras directly or on related signalling molecules such as Rho kinase and Raf kinase.