bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Distribution and expression of phosphorylated histone H3 during porcine oocyte maturation
Authors: Gu Ling , Wang Qiang , Wang Chun‐Ming , Hong Yan , Sun Shao‐Guang , Yang Shu‐Yan , Wang Ji‐Gui , Hou Yi , Sun Qing‐Yuan , Liu Wei‐Quan
Published: March 2007

Phosphorylation modification of core histones is correlated well with diverse chromatin‐based cell activities. However, its distribution pattern and primary roles during mammalian oocyte meiosis are still in dispute. In this study, by performing immunofluorescence and Western blotting, spatial distribution and temporal expression of phosphorylated serine 10 or 28 on histone H3 during porcine oocyte meiotic maturation were examined and distinct subcellular distribution patterns between them were presented. Low expression of phosphorylated H3/ser10 was detected in germinal vesicle. Importantly, following gradual dephosphorylation from germinal vesicle (GV) to late germinal vesicle (L‐GV) stage, a transient phosphorylation at the periphery of condensed chromatin was re‐established at early germinal vesicle breakdown (E‐GVBD) stage, and then the dramatically increased signals covered whole chromosomes from pre‐metaphase I (Pre‐MI) to metaphase II (MII). Similarly, hypophosphorylation of serine 28 on histone H3 was also monitored from GV to E‐GVBD, indicating dephosphorylation of histone H3 maybe involved in the regulation of meiotic resumption. Moreover, the rim staining on the chromosomes and high levels of H3/ser28 phosphorylation were observed in Pre‐MI, MI, and MII stage oocytes. Based on above results, such stage‐dependent dynamics of phosphorylation of H3/ser 10 and 28 may play specific roles during mammalian oocyte maturation. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 75: 143–149, 2008. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Apoptotic effects of a progesterone receptor antagonist on rat granulosa cells are not mediated via reduced protein isoprenylation
Authors: Friberg P. Anders , Larsson D.G. Joakim , Rung Emilia , Billig Håkan
Published: March 2007

Progesterone is a survival factor in rat periovulatory granulosa cells. The mechanisms involved are unclear but progesterone receptor (PGR) antagonists have been shown to inhibit cholesterol synthesis and induce apoptosis. Furthermore, reports suggest that statins induce apoptosis by inhibition of protein isoprenylation. Statins inhibit the rate‐limiting step of the cholesterol synthesis, thereby reducing availability of intermediates used for the post‐translational isoprenylation process. It has been suggested that PGR antagonists in a similar manner induce apoptosis by decreasing cholesterol synthesis and thereby protein isoprenylation. In this study we hypothesized that the mechanism by which the nuclear PGR antagonist Org 31710 induces apoptosis in rat periovulatory granulosa cells, is by decreasing cholesterol synthesis and thereby general cell protein isoprenylation. Incubation of isolated granulosa cells with Org 31710 or simvastatin for 22 hr resulted in increased apoptosis and reduced cholesterol synthesis. However, simvastatin caused a substantial inhibition of cholesterol synthesis after 6 hr in culture without inducing apoptosis. In contrast, Org 31710 had only a modest effect on cholesterol synthesis after 6 hr while it significantly induced apoptosis. Addition of isoprenylation substrates partially reversed apoptosis induced by simvastatin and to a lesser extent apoptosis induced by Org 31710. In addition, and in contrast to Org 31710, simvastatin caused a decrease in isoprenylation of a selected isoprenylation marker protein, the Ras‐related protein RAB11. In conclusion, we demonstrate that the PGR antagonist inhibits cholesterol synthesis in granulosa cells but reduced protein isoprenylation is not the mediating mechanism of increased apoptosis as previously hypothesized. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 74: 1317–1326, 2007. © 2007 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.
Regional voices talk theatre: audience development for the performing arts
Authors: Scollen Rebecca
Published: March 2007

Audience development is somewhat of a ‘buzz word’ within the Australian performing arts sector at present. However, rather than actually engaging with audiences and with non‐attenders to discover how to best serve the community, most of the performing arts organisations approach audience development from a product‐centred viewpoint.

In direct contrast to this, the Talking Theatre project (2004–2006) was implemented in regional Queensland and in the Northern Territory in Australia as an audience development initiative focused on the consumer. The project sought to assist performing arts centres (PACs) to better engage with their local communities and to build new audiences for the future. In particular, the research aimed to understand non‐attenders, their reasons for non‐attendance and their reactions to a range of live performances they experienced under study conditions.

The Talking Theatre project provided the vehicle for introduction, communication and relationship building to occur to assist in attitudinal and behavioural change. The non‐attenders enjoyed their experiences at the PACs and have begun attending performances outside of study conditions. Limited awareness of the performing arts' relevance to their lives combined with a lack of positive peer influence to attend, were the chief deterrents to attendance for the participants in the study.

Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The moderator role of intuitive versus deliberative decision making for the predictive validity of implicit and explicit measures
Authors: Richetin Juliette , Perugini Marco , Adjali Iqbal , Hurling Robert
Published: March 2007

The Preference for Intuition and Deliberation (PID) scale aims at capturing stable general individual differences in terms of intuitive versus deliberative preferences in decision making. A study examined the psychometric properties of the English version of the PID, investigated whether the two subscales moderate the validity of implicit and explicit measures for incidental and deliberative evaluations and behaviours concerning fizzy soft drinks, and compared the predictive validity of two new implicit measures (ST‐IAT and ID‐EAST) and an explicit measure. Results showed an asymmetric weak double dissociation pattern only for behaviours. Additionally, a moderation effect suggested that the ST‐IAT better predicted sensory evaluation for people high in intuition and explicit attitudes better predicted benefit evaluation for people high in deliberation. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolates: Comparisons of isolates from campers and from sibling pairs with cystic fibrosis
Authors: Thomassen Mary Jane , Demko Catherine A. , Doershuk Carl F. , Root Jane M.
Published: March 2007

Sputum or deep throat specimen cultures were obtained from 47 cystic fibrosis (CF) patients residing together at an eight‐day summer camp. Pre‐camp, initial day, final day and post‐camp cultures were obtained and Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolates were characterized by morphology, serotype, pigment production, serum sensitivity, antibiotic susceptibility patterns, hemolysis on blood agar, and CO2 growth requirement. Of the 47 patients, four were not chronically colonized with Pseudomonas and did not become colonized at camp. Analysis of the isolates from the other 43 revealed no significant alteration in the Pseudomonas colonization pattern. Cultures obtained from four sibling pairs among the campers and from 20 additional pairs of siblings revealed that siblings in 20/24 pairs had at least one identical serotype in common. Of the criteria used for characterization, serotyping was the most definitive method for strain identification. Serotyping by both the Homma system and the International system did not detect any serotype at a frequency of more than 31%. In this study, the predominant P. aeruginosa strain of the colonized patients did not change, and non‐colonized individuals did not become colonized with P. aeruginosa.
Total respiratory impedance in healthy children
Authors: Hantos Z. , Daróczy B. , Gyurkovits K.
Published: March 2007

Impedance of the total respiratory system was measured in 121 healthy children aged 4–16 years during spontaneous breathing by pseudo‐random forced oscillations between 3 and 10 Hz. Total respiratory resistance (Rrs), inertance (Irs) and compliance (Crs) were determined by least‐mean‐squares fitting. Estimates for inertance were reliable only for the larger children, where the values of Irs (0.0127 ± 0.0034 SD) were similar to those reported for normal adults. Rrs correlated significantly (P < 0.001) with height (r = −0.868), age (r= −0.865), and, in a subpopulation of the 6‐ to 16‐year‐old children, with forced vital capacity (r = −0.803), The corresponding correlation coefficients for Crs were 0.873, 0.844, and 0.853, respectively. Crs amounted to about a third of the static total compliance values of Sharp et al. (J Appl Physiol 1970; 29: 775–779) over the same interval of heights. In these relationships no significant difference was found between boys and girls.
Normal values for forced oscillatory respiratory resistance in children
Authors: Hordvik Nancy L. , König Peter , Morris Debra A. , Kreutz Cynthia , Pimmel Russell L.
Published: March 2007

Forced oscillatory respiratory resistance was measured in 138 healthy children aged 2‐ to 16‐years‐old using a commercial unit. Regression analysis was performed using the resistance measurements obtained at frequencies of 6 Hz and 26 Hz and averages of measurements obtained at frequencies of from 6–26 Hz, 6–10 Hz, and 22–26 Hz. The analysis suggested that regression curves and 95% confidence intervals obtained using a quadratic model with height as the independent variable provided the best prediction of normal values and their ranges. Three independent sets of resistance measurements, which were obtained for all 138 subjects, were used to calculate the average individual coefficients of variation (CV) for the five resistance parameters noted above; these ranged from 9 to 13%. This analysis suggested that the expected CV of repeated measurements would be about 10%. Finally, values from 13 children who had asthma with mild bronchial obstruction (FEV1 less than 80% of predicted) were compared with the normal values derived from the regression curves. Values from all but two of the children fell within the reference intervals, suggesting that FEV1 may be a more sensitive measure of obstruction than forced oscillatory resistance. The main applications of this new approach may be in the evaluation of young children, in following individual patients, and in bronchodilation and bronchial challenge tests.
Chronic bronchopulmonary disease and gastroesophageal reflux in children
Authors: Hoyoux CI. , Forget P. , Lambrechts L. , Geubelle F.
Published: March 2007

Fifty‐four children who had chronic bronchopulmonary disease (CBPD) were investigated for the incidence of gastroesophageal reflux (GER). An activity score for CBPD and a numerical reflux score using criteria from a pH probe study were established. Results of barium esophagography, endoscopy, and prolonged esophageal pH probe monitoring were abnormal in 67, 78, and 53% of the patients, respectively. A significant relationship was found between the CBPD activity score and the reflux score; this strongly suggests that, in the patients studied, GER was responsible for the bronchopulmonary symptoms. Antireflux therapy resulted in an improvement of the CBPD activity score in all patients who had abnormal reflux scores. The mean CBPD activity score was 4.4 and 1.3 before and after antireflux therapy, respectively (P < 0.01). Most patients who had normal reflux scores did not improve on antireflux therapy.
Lung function in children and adolescents with idiopathic interstitial pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Zapletal A. , Houštěk J. , Šamánek M. , Čopová M. , Paul T.
Published: March 2007

Lung function of 65 patients who had idiopathic interstitial pulmonary fibrosis (IIPF) that had been treated with prednisone was evaluated by tests of ventilatory function, lung mechanics, and gas exchange at rest and during exercise. Ages on initial investigation ranged from 5 to 20 years. In 35 of 65 patients the studies were repeated an average of four times over a period of 1 to 9 years. Results of the first testing were as follows: 1) vital capacity (VC)—significantly reduced in all patients; 2) inspiratory capacity (IC)—significantly reduced in all patients; 3) total lung capacity (TLC)—reduced in 91%; 4) functional residual capacity (FRC)—reduced in 31%; 5) residual volume (RV)—reduced in 6%; 6) elastic recoil of the lungs (Pst/)—significantly increased in 97% at 100% TLC, significantly increased in 52% at 90% TLC, reduced in 68% at 60% TLC; 7) static compliance (Cst)—reduced in 83%; 8) dynamic compliance (Cdyn)—reduced in 88%; 9) specific airway conductance at FRC level (Gaw/TGVex)—significantly increased in 50%; 10) maximum expiratory flow rates at 60% TLC (Vmax 60% TLC, in TLC/s)—significantly reduced in 33%; 11) upstream airway conductance (Gus 60% TLC, in TLC/s/cm H2O)—reduced in 32%; 12) diffusing capacity of the lungs for carbon monoxide (DLCO) related to body‐surface area—abnormal in 58% (when corrected for lung size, i.e., DLCO/TLC, abnormal in only 8%); 13) PaO2 at rest and after 6 minutes submaximal exercise—reduced in 25% and 63%, respectively. Changes in lung function that occurred with growth were assessed in terms of percentages of predicted values. Results showed that the VC and IC remained significantly reduced. An actual reduction of TLC, FRC, RV, breathing frequency, DLCO, and Pst/ at 100% and 90% TLC was observed. Increases were seen in Pst/ at 60% TLC, Gaw/TGVex, V̇max, and Cst/. Indices of lung elasticity suggested that regions of fibrosis and emphysema had become present. Smaller patients were also noted to have stiffer lungs.
Bronchodilators and diuretics in children with bronchopulmonary dysplasia
Authors: Logvinoff M. M. , Lemen R. J. , Taussig L. M. , Lamont B. A.
Published: March 2007

Pulmonary function tests (PFT) were obtained during the course of a selfcontrolled study of six children aged 5 to 43 months who had moderate to severe bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). Changes after the administration of intravenous (IV) furosemide (2 mg/kg), inhaled isoproterenol (0.2 cc, 1:200), inhaled atropine sulfate (0.05 mg/kg), and a placebo were assessed. The study indicated the furosemide and atropine significantly (P < 0.05) increased dynamic compliance (CL) for the group. A decrease in total pulmonary resistance (RL) and work of breathing (W) was observed after isoproterenol, although the responses were not significant (P = 0.08 and P = 0.09, respectively). It was speculated that pulmonary edema and increased vagal tone may contribute to small airway dysfunction in children who have BPD.
Increased dosage requirements of tobramycin and gentamicin for treating Pseudomonas pneumonia in patients with cystic fibrosis
Authors: Mann Henry J. , Canafax Daniel M. , Cipolle Robert J. , Daniels Charles E. , Zaske Darwin E. , Warwick Warren J.
Published: March 2007

The pharmacokinetic behavior of tobramycin and gentamicin was evaluated in 27 patients who had cystic fibrosis (CF). A previously studied, age‐matched group of 334 patients who had been treated with gentamicin and who did not have CF served as controls. The CF patients, who ranged in age from 2 to 32 years and who had normal renal function, received 36 treatment courses with either tobramycin (19) or gentamicin (17) to treat Pseudomonas pneumonia. Serum concentrations were determined after a 1.5‐mg/kg dose to compute half‐life (t1/2), elimination rate constant (k), and apparent volume of distribution (V). From these values, doses were calculated to produce steady‐state peak concentrations of 8.0 μg/ml with a dosing interval of every six hours. For tobramycin the mean (± SD) t1/2 was 1.0 (0.4) hours, V was 0.18 (0.06) I/kg, total body clearance (TBC) was 2.19 (0.71) ml/min/kg, and the calculated dose was 8.2 (2.1) mg/kg/day. For gentamicin t1/2 was 1.1 (0.5) hours, V was 0.20 (0.06) I/kg, TBC was 2.28 (0.89) ml/min/kg, and the calculated dose was 8.8 (2.4) mg/kg/day. The pharmacokinetic parameters were not statistically different between the two drugs, but the mean values of t1/2 and TBC of CF patients differed significantly from those of the control group. The calculated doses were larger than the manufacturer's maximum recommended dose of 7.5 mg/kg/day for 63% of tobramycin and 71% of gentamicin treatment courses. A dosing interval change to every four hours would have been appropriate in 28 of the 36 treatment courses (78%). There was wide interpatient and intrapatient variation in pharmacokinetic parameters, and TBC did not correlate with creatinine clearance (CLcr). CF patients require larger doses of aminoglycosides than non‐CF patients, and they must have individualized doses and dosing intervals to obtain desired drug concentrations.
The forced oscillation technique in children with respiratory disease
Authors: Solymar L. , Aronsson P‐H. , Sixt R.
Published: March 2007

The single‐frequency forced oscillation technique was used to estimate the total respiratory impedance, resistance, and reactance at 2, 4, and 12 Hz of children who had cricoid stenosis (CS; n = 11), provoked bronchoconstriction (PB; n = 6), or cystic fibrosis (CF; n = 13). The selection criteria for patients who had CS and CF were abnormal forced expiratory volume in 1 sec (FEV!) and/or maximal expiratory flow at 50% vital capacity (Vmax 50%). Sixteen of the 17 patients who had CS or PB were found to have resistance (Rrs) values outside the normal range at 4 Hz; at 2 Hz, 14 were found to have abnormal values and, at 12 Hz, only 9. The reactance in the CS and PB groups was somewhat less discriminative than Rrs at all frequencies. Of the 13 patients who had CF, only 4 had abnormal Rrs values; in this clinical condition, the reactance at 2 Hz was the most discriminative variable, being abnormal in 6 of the 13 patients. Irrespective of the clinical group, the Rrs was, in absolute terms, highest at 2 Hz, and it decreased with increasing frequency. This pattern of negative frequency dependence was, however, not obviously specific for any of the tested clinical conditions and offered no information in addition to a single low‐frequency determination.
Proximal high‐frequency jet ventilation of the newborn
Authors: Donn Steven M. , Nicks Joanne J. , Bandy Kenneth P. , Naglie Ronald A.
Published: March 2007

During a 14‐month period 11 preterm infants were treated with high‐frequency jet ventilation for severe respiratory failure that had been unresponsive to conventional mechanical ventilation. Primary indications included intractable air leaks (pulmonary interstitial emphysema, pneumothorax, or both), congenital diaphragmatic hernia, and progressive pneumonia. The Sechrist 990 HFV respirator, a solenoid‐driven, pulse‐generated high frequency jet ventilator, was used. This device delivers a volume of gas at a controlled pressure to a jet located in the patient connector proximal to a standard single lumen endotracheal tube. The ventilator was operated in tandem with a Sechrist IV‐100B ventilator to provide a sigh effect and to improve humidification. Although only 3 of 11 patients survived, 9 displayed short‐term benefits from HFJV with significant reduction in mean airway pressure and improvement in mean arterial blood pressure, and no concomitant adverse effects on oxygenation or ventilation. Preliminary results suggest shortterm benefits of HFJV in infants who have severe respiratory failure that is unresponsive to conventional mechanical ventilation.
Nicotine‐induced neuroepithelial cell changes in young rabbits: A preliminary communication
Authors: Chen M. F. , Diotallevi M. J. , Kimizuka G. , King M. , Wang N. S.
Published: March 2007

Nicotine 1 mg/kg body weight/day, was injected subcutaneously in 3 female rabbits during gestational and lactating periods, and the lungs of the offspring were studied by scanning and transmission electron microscopy (SEM and TEM) on days 5, 10, and 25 postpartum. Three other female rabbits served as controls. The size and number of neuroepithelial bodies (NEB) as estimated by SEM were larger in the experimental group than in the control group, especially on days 5 and 25. Moreover, the NEB in the nicotineexposed groups showed loss of normal boundaries and derangement of cells and granules by TEM. Neural components also became prominent. These findings suggest that chronic maternal exposure to nicotine may directly, or, through the neural route, indirectly induce hyperplasia and dysplasia of the NEB in the offspring of rabbits. Because NEB are suspected to regulate regional bronchial and vascular smooth muscle cells, such alterations may be similar to respiratory functional impairments found in infants of mothers who smoke.
Cold air provocation of airway hyperreactivity in patients with cystic fibrosis
Authors: Darga Linda L. , Eason Lawrence A. , Polgar George , Zach Dozent Maximilian S.
Published: March 2007

Thirty‐four patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) were assessed for baseline pulmonary functions before, and 5 and 15 minutes after cold air challenge (CACh). Most of the patients had no change in forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) and maximum expiratory flow at 25% vital capacity (Vmax25%VC) post‐CACh. Five patients responded with reduced FEV1 and 13 with reduced Vmax25%VC. However, paradoxical increases were noted in 10 patients for FEV1 and in 5 for Vmax25%VC. Paradoxical responses were most frequent in patients with severe lung disease. The explanation for this variability may lie in the varying degrees of airway instability and volume of airway contribution (VAC) to early flows, resulting from the damage caused by chronic infection. Conventional challenges may be useless in determining the true incidence of bronchial hyperreactivity in patients with CF.
Bronchial carcinoid tumor in a 12‐year‐old child
Authors: van Steensel‐Moll H. A. , de Groot R. , Neijens H. J. , den Hollander J. C. , Meradji M.
Published: March 2007

Symptoms (hemoptysis, recurrent pulmonary infections), diasnostic work‐up (roentgenology, bronchoscopy with biopsy), and treatment (surgical resection of a bronchial carcinoid tumor in a 12 year old girl) are discussed. Special attention was paid to the tumor histochemistry, showing serotonin containing granules. Levels of circulating hormones and vasoactive agents, including serotonin, were within normal limits.
The potential value of a 750‐ml spacer for the administration of inhaled corticosteroids to children
Authors: Reiser J. , Frame M. H. , Warner J. O.
Published: March 2007

An open, cross‐over trial was conducted on 25 asthmatic children, aged 6–13 years, who required inhaled steroids. They inhaled Budesonide 200 μg twice daily, either directly from the metered dose inhaler or via the pear spacer (PS), for 2 months on each, in randomized order. The effects of the treatment were monitored with diary cards recording peak expiratory flow rates twice daily, symptoms and treatment taken, and with monthly clinical assessments including more sensitive lung function studies (flow‐volume loops and single breath nitrogen wash‐out tests). There was no specifically PS‐related improvement in symptoms or in the majority of tests, but the results showed improvement with time when using either method. The improvement was more distinct in some tests reflecting proximal airway calibre (i.e., PEFR) than in tests thought to reflect predominantly peripheral airway calibre (i.e., F50, RV). The bronchodilator responsiveness, as shown by the increase in lung function tests after a β‐agonist was given, was significantly greater for FVC during the periods when the PS was used, although there was no significant improvement in FEV2 or PEFR. The improvement in tests reflecting proximal airways may have been due to optimization of the inhalation technique, greater understanding of asthma, or better compliance with medication associated with regular attendance for the study. The greater bronchodilator response whilst children were inhaling budesonide by the PS may have been due to increased deposition or better distribution of the steroid but was probably related to a difference between the two groups in initial baseline function tests.
Clinical observations on mechanical ventilation for respiratory failure in bronchiolitis
Authors: Frankel Lorry R. , Lewiston Norman J. , Smith David W. , Stevenson David K.
Published: March 2007

An unusually large number of infants (82) were admitted to Stanford University Hospital from November 1,1983, through May 31,1985, with a diagnosis of bronchiolitis requiring oxygen therapy. A larger percentage of these infants (17/82 = 21%) than generally expected required mechanical ventilation for respiratory failure. Fourteen infants had respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections, and three had parainfluenza virus infections. Ten patients had respiratory difficulties as neonates. The mechanical ventilation of the children requiring respiratory assistance was characterized by high minute ventilation with high tidal volumes (15 to 20 ml/kg) and slow respiratory rates (16 to 22 breaths/min). Peak inspiratory pressure averaged (mean ± SD) 35 ± 6 cm H2O in the RSV group and 34 ± 6 cm H2O in the parainfluenza group. The mean number of days on the ventilator was 9.7 ± 3.1 for the RSV group and 8.3 ± 2.9 for the parainfluenza group. All were extubated within 17 days of presentation and discharged within 28 days. The complications encountered included pneumothorax and acute pulmonary hypertension.
Total respiratory compliance and functional residual capacity in young children
Authors: Greenough A. , Stocks J. , Nothen U. , Helms R
Published: March 2007

Measurements of total compliance of the respiratory system (CRS) by the weishted spirometer technique and functional residual capacity (FRC) by helium gas dilution were attempted in 63 healthy children (aged 2 to 7 years). Weighted spirometry was well tolerated in all but six children, and FRC measurements were successful in 42. Both measurements were reproducible and not affected by posture. Good correlations were found between CRS and height (r = 0.73) and age (r = 0.83) as well as between FRC and height (r = 0.83) and age (r = 0.74). No differences were found between boys and girls. CRS also correlated significantly with FRC (r = 0.67). In five children with cystic fibrosis, measurements of CRS, FRC and specific compliance correlated with disease severity. Our data suggest these well‐tolerated techniques may provide a useful means to distinguish the effects of disease from those of growth.
Effect of high‐frequency jet ventilation on preterm and rabbit tracheal mechanics
Authors: Bhutani Vinod K. , Abbasi Soraya , Spitzer A. R. , Fox W. W. , Shaffer Thomas H.
Published: March 2007

The effect of high‐frequency jet ventilation (HFJV) on both tracheal dimensions and mechanics was evaluated in preterm and term rabbit airways. Seven tracheal segments were studied at 27 days (group I) and 31 days (group II) of gestation, respectively. Tracheal dimensions and segmental pressure‐volume relationships were determined before and after 60 minutes of HFJV (peak pressure 20 cm H2O; mean airway pressure 6.7 to 6.8 cm H2O at 10 Hz). Both tracheal lengths and diameters increased significantly (p < 0.01) in each group and resulted in increased tracheal volumes: 109% in group I (p< 0.01) and 60% in group II (p < 0.01). The mean specific tracheal compliance decreased in group I, from 0.036 cm H2O−1 to 0.015 cm H2O−1 (p < 0.01), and in group II from 0.029 cm H2O−1 to 0.021 cm H2O−1 (p < 0.01). Furthermore, the collapsing transmural pressure (the pressure required for total collapse of tracheal segments) decreased significantly (p< 0.01) in both groups. These data demonstrate significant dimensional and mechanical deformation of tracheal segments after HFJV. An increased propensity toward collapsibility is also observed following HFJV. These changes are similar to those with tracheomala‐cia. The influence of such deformation on tracheal gas flow during HFJV needs to be further investigated.
Compliance measurement in respiratory distress syndrome: The prediction of outcome
Authors: Graff Michael A. , Novo Robert P. , Diaz Masaly , Smith Cathy , Hiatt I. Mark , Hegyi Thomas
Published: March 2007

Dynamic compliance (Cdyn) measurements within the first three days of life predicted survival in 60 preterm infants suffering from respiratory distress syndrome. Cdyn was measured in 47 survivors at 2.3 ± 1.4 days of life and in 13 nonsurvivors on 2.7 ± 1.7 days. All nonsurvivors died from respiratory failure within the first two weeks of life. Mean Cdyn of the survivors was 0.83 ± 0.33 ml/cm H2O and of the nonsurvivors 0.35 ± 0.19 ml/cm H2O (p < 0.001). Cdyn values below 0.45 ml/cm H2O predicted 11 of 13 deaths in infants, and Cdyn measurements above this value predicted 45 of 47 survivals, with a specificity of 81% and a sensitivity of 89%. Eleven of the survivors, who subsequently developed bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), had a mean Cdyn of 0.56 ± 0.23 ml/cm H2O. When these infants were matched with infants of comparable weight without evidence of BPD, the BPD group had a significantly lower Cdyn (p < 0.05). Cdyn measurements during the first three days of life are useful in predicting outcome of respiratory failure secondary to respiratory distress syndrome.
Diurnal variation in bronchial responsiveness in asthmatic children
Authors: Sly Peter D. , Landau Louis I.
Published: March 2007

To establish the presence of a diurnal variation in bronchial responsiveness in asthmatic children, the increase of peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) followins sympathomimetic inhalation and the response to bronchial provocation with histamine and hyperventilation of cold dry air (HVCDA) were studied. Twenty‐nine patients (20 boys, nine girls, aged 9.3 to 17.8 years) measured PEFR before and after sympathomimetic inhalation three times a day for four weeks. A further 15 patients (eight boys, seven girls, aged 6.9 to 18.0 years) underwent bronchial provocation testing every six hours for 24 hours. A diurnal variation in bronchodilator responsiveness was demonstrated in 55% of the first group. Mean amplitude was 60.8% of patients' mean increase in PEFR following bronchodilators. On grouped data, bronchodilation was greater in the morning than in the afternoon (p < 0.0005) or in the evening (p < 0.0005). A diurnal variation in the response to bronchial provocation was also found in the second group, but the timing of the rhythm depended on the stimulus used. On grouped data, airways were most sensitive to histamine at 0400 hours and most sensitive to HVCDA at 1600 hours. The diurnal variation demonstrated in bronchial responsiveness could not be attributed to changes in baseline airway caliber and was present despite the patients' taking sufficient medication to control their asthmatic symptoms.
Effect of cisapride on gastroesophageal reflux in children with chronic bronchopulmonary disease: A double‐blind cross‐over pH‐monitoring study
Authors: Saye Zimbu N. , Forget Pierre Ph. , Geubelle Fernand
Published: March 2007

Fourteen patients with chronic bronchopulmonary disease and suspected of having gastroesophageal reflux were studied for 16 hr by intraesophageal pH monitoring to investigate the effect of the prokinetic drug cisapride. Cisapride was administered orally in a double‐blind cross‐over study. The initial dose was 0.3 mg/kg, followed by 0.15 mg/kg every 4 hr for 12 hr. Cisapride was shown to be superior to placebo in reducing gastroesophageal reflux. Both during the total recording period and during the sleep period, cisapride significantly decreased the percentage of time during which the pH was 4 or less (vs placebo; total period, −60%; sleep, −80%) and reduced the number of reflux spells of at least 5 min (−64%; −92%). No adverse effects of cisapride were observed. Pediatr Pulmonol 1987; 3:8–12.
Determination of right ventricular ejection fraction in children with cystic fibrosis
Authors: Piepsz A. , Ham H. R. , Millet E. , Dab I.
Published: March 2007

The radionuclide right ventricular ejection fraction (RVEF) determined by means of Krypton‐81 m represents a simple, noninvasive, and accurate procedure to quantify the right ventricular contractility. This procedure was applied to 25 young patients with cystic fibrosis. The RVEF tended to decrease with the progression of the lung disease, as assessed by the clinical S‐K score, the degree of the defects on lung scintigraphy, the Pa, and the lung function tests. However, the decrease of RVEF in patients with marked lung involvement was moderate, and terminal lung disease was sometimes associated with normal right heart contractility. Pediatr Pulmonol 1987; 3; 24–28.
Lung function in infancy and childhood following neonatal intensive care
Authors: Arad I. , Bar‐Yishay E. , Eyal F. , Gross S. , Godfrey S.
Published: March 2007

Pulmonary function studies were performed in 11 neonatal intensive care survivors both during infancy and later in childhood. Lung function was compared with the respiratory support given in the neonatal period. The mean ± SE thoracic gas volume was 96 ± 4% predicted in infancy and rose to 122 ± 8% predicted during childhood (P < 0.005). The specific airway conductance (SGaw) in infancy was 57 ± 7% predicted and rose to 90 ± 8% predicted in childhood (P < 0.0025). Abnormalities in SGaw were found only in ventilated infants, and there was a negative logarithmic correlation between the treatment score in the neonatal period and the SGaw in both infancy and childhood. The data indicate a long‐term improvement in airway conductance of moderately affected infants with the development of mild hyperinflation in childhood possibly resulting from residual small airway abnormalities despite a symptomless clinical course. The residual abnormalities in prematurely born infants were in proportion to the intensity of treatment required in the neonatal period. Pediatr Pulmonol 1987; 3; 29–33.
Vasodilatory effect of aerosol histamine during pulmonary vasoconstriction in unanesthetized sheep
Authors: Stecenko Arlene A. , Lefferts Peter L. , Mitchell John A. , Snapper James R. , Brigham Kenneth L.
Published: March 2007

The effects of aerosol histamine on pulmonary vascular resistance during pulmonary vasoconstriction were studied in 12 unanesthetized sheep. Sheep were chronically instrumented with Silastic catheters in the pulmonary artery and left atrium, thermodilution Swan‐Ganz catheter in the main pulmonary artery for measurement of cardiac output, and tracheostomy for delivery of hypoxic gas and/or aerosol histamine. Seven minutes of isocapnic hypoxia (FlO2 = 0.12) caused pulmonary artery pressure (PPA) to increase from 17.2 ± 0.4 to 27.0 ± 1.0 cm H2O (X¯ ± SEM, P < 0.05) and pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) to increase from 3.94 ± 0.33 to 4.71 ± 0.38 cm H2O · L−1. min (P < 0.05). When sheep breathed a combination of aerosol histamine (5 mg/ml) and 12% O2, PPA rose only to 21.3 ± 1.11 cm H2O and PVR decreased to 3.51 ± 0.31 cm H2O · L−1. min. This was a significantly (P < 0.05) smaller response compared to hypoxia alone. Aerosol histamine alone had no significant effect on PPA or PVR. Meclofenamate did not restore the histamine‐induced loss of hypoxic vasoconstriction. Aerosol histamine significantly blunted the pulmonary vasoconstriction caused by intravenous serotonin (8 μg/kg/min) and intravenous prostaglandin H2‐analog (0.74 μg/kg/min). It was concluded that in the awake sheep aerosol histamine acted as a pulmonary vasodilator only in the presence of pulmonary vasoconstriction. Pediatr Pulmonol 1987; 3:94–100.
Circulating 5‐hydroxytryptamine concentrations in preterm newborns
Authors: Schumacher R. E. , Farrell P. M. , Olson E. B.
Published: March 2007

Alterations in circulating 5‐hydroxytryptamine (5‐HT) concentrations play a role in the pathophysiology of respiratory failure in adults. We undertook a study to develop a micromethod and measure circulating free 5‐HT concentrations in preterm newborns with and without respiratory distress. Forty‐six samples of platelet‐poor plasma were obtained from 29 preterm newborns with varying degrees of respiratory distress. Samples were taken on days 2–3 and 6–7 of life. For measuring 5‐HT concentrations we used a precolumn sample enhancement technique followed by ion exchange HPLC with electrochemical detection. The assay allowed detection of extremely small (50 pg) amounts of 5‐HT from small (0.2 ml) amounts of blood. The mean 5‐HT concentration on days 2–3 was 1.77 ± 0.74 ng/ml (mean ± 95% confidence limits) and on days 6–7 was 0.69 ± 0 23 ng/ml. This represented a significant fall in 5‐HT concentrations (P = 0.01). All of 16 paired serial samples fell with time (P = 0.006). We conclude that platelet‐poor plasma 5‐HT concentrations in premature newborns are low, that there is a significant decline in these values over the first week of life, and that, in contrast with adults, the presence of respiratory failure is not associated with increased free 5‐HT concentrations. The low 5‐HT concentrations seen in newborns may reflect the ability to increase pulmonary uptake. Pediatr Pulmonol 1987; 3:117–122.
Physical exercise program for children with bronchial asthma
Authors: Szentágothai Klára , Gyene István , Szócska Miklós , Osváth Pál
Published: March 2007

A long‐term physical exercise program was established for a large number of children with bronchial asthma. Asthmatic children were first taught to swim on their backs to prevent breathing problems customary for beginners using other strokes. They concurrently participated in gymnasium exercises, and the program was later completed with outdoor running. Program effectiveness was evaluated by monitoring asthmatic symptoms, changes in medication, and changes in the activity and physical fitness of the children. Data collected from 121 children showed that during the first year in the program the number of days with asthmatic symptoms decreased in a large majority of the patients while medication was decreased. School absenteeism and hospitalization dropped markedly. Parental evaluation of the children indicated much improvement in 51·2%, improvement in 40.5%, unchanged condition in 7.4%, and deterioration of general health was only reported in one child (0.8%). The same extent of improvement continued during the second year. The Cooper test was applied for the first time to such an exercise program and indicated that the participating asthmatic children performed as well as a control group of nonasthmatic children, and the cardiovascular efficiency of the asthmatics was actually better.
Cold air challenge in children with asthma
Authors: Reisman J. , Mappa L. , de Benedictis F. , McLaughlin J. , Levison H.
Published: March 2007

A study was designed to determine the sensitivity and specificity of a cold air bronchial provocation test. A total of 18 children with asthma (mean age 12 years) and 18 normal children (mean age 14 years) were studied. The cold air challenge consisted of a 4 min period of isocapnic hyperventilation of subfreezing air (mean temperature − 15°C). In‐Induced response in forced expiratory volume in 1 sec (FEV1) expressed as a percentage of predicted normal values was obtained at 4, 6, and 8 min post‐challenge. The average response to the cold air was a 27% decrease of FEV1 in asthmatics, which was significantly different from that of the normal children, who showed no statistically significant drop. In both the asthmatic and normal groups, the maximal drop in FEV1 had occurred by the time measurements 4 min post‐challenge had been made. At that time, the smallest overlap was observed between normal and asthmatic children. This suggests that the fourth minute postchallenge can be chosen as a cut‐off time to distinguish normal from asthmatic children. Considering a decrease of FEV1 greater than 10% as a positive test, the sensitivity of the cold air challenge was 95% and the specificity was 89%.
Normal values of maximal inspiratory and expiratory pressures with a portable apparatus in children, adolescents, and young adults
Authors: Szeinberg Amir , Marcotte Jacque E. , Roizin Hector , Mindorff Catherine , England Sandra , Tabachnik Elvan , Levison Henry
Published: March 2007

Maximal inspiratory and expiratory mouth pressures (Plmax and PEmax) were measured over a wide age range using a cylindrical mouthpiece and a multiple trial procedure. Two hundred forty‐three students and 30 adults were studied. In addition, a comparison of a cylindrical and a scuba‐type mouthpiece was made in 16 subjects. Fifty percent of the subjects required five or more trials to achieve their maximal mouth pressures. Higher PEmax values were obtained using a cylindrical mouthpiece than with a scuba‐type mouthpiece in 15 of the 16 subjects tested. Plmax was not affected by mouthpiece type. Males had higher Plmax and PEmax values than females except in the 8–10 years age group. Maximal mouth pressures correlated with age in boys only. Technical considerations, such as the number of trials and the type of mouthpiece used, are important determinants of maximal mouth pressure values.
Infected thymic cyst: An unusual cause of respiratory distress in a child
Authors: Youngson George G. , Ein Sigmund H. , Geddie William R. , Cutz Ernest
Published: March 2007

A 15‐month‐old male developed acute respiratory distress following a prolonged upper respiratory tract infection. Laboratory and radiological investigations suggested tracheal compression by a malignant anterior mediastinal mass. Following a short course of steroid therapy, urgent exploration of the mediastinum and resection of the mass was carried out; resolution of the airway obstruction was obtained. Histotogical and bacteriological examination of the lesion revealed it to be a thymic cyst infected by Haemophilus Influenzae with abscess formation. The causes of tracheal compression in childhood are discussed.
Bronchoscopic evaluation of airway obstruction in campomelic dysplasia
Authors: Grad Roni , Sammut Paul H. , Britton John R. , Goodrich Paul , Hoyme H. Eugene , Dambro Nancy N.
Published: March 2007

Campomelic dysplasia is a generalized disorder of cartilaginous growth and development, leading to early death from pulmonary insufficiency. We describe the airway dynamics as observed bronchoscopically in two affected infants. Both infants demonstrated anatomic compromise of the upper airway and diffuse laryngotracheobronchomalacia. Additionally, both had a characteristically small, bell‐shaped thoracic cage. The abnormal airway dynamics produced serious inspiratory and expiratory obstruction in these infants and, in combination with the restrictive chest wall defect, led rapidly to the development of respiratory failure. While palliative procedures such as tracheostomy may temporarily improve airway dynamics, future respiratory tract insults may prove fatal. Pediatr Pulmonol 1987; 3:364–367.
Measurement of respiratory mechanics using the siemens servo ventilator 900C
Authors: Sly Peter D. , Bates Jason H. T. , Milic‐Emili J.
Published: March 2007

The interrupter technique involves measuring the pressure changes at the airway opening during sudden cessation of flow and has been advocated for monitoring respiratory mechanics in artificially ventilated patients. The Siemens Servo Ventilator 900C has the ability to make airway occlusions without interrupting the patient's respiratory support. This study was performed to determine the suitability of the end‐inspiratory occlusion facility of the ventilator for interrupter measurements of respiratory resistance and compliance. Measurements were made in a physical model of the respiratory system consisting of two parallel compartments, whose individual resistances and elastances were independently determined. The accuracy of the resistance measurements made using the ventilator were found to be dependent on the inspiratory flow. With an inspiratory flow of 100 ml/s, the resistance of the system could be measured to within 18% of the true value, and the static compliance could be measured to within 26% of the true value. Much of the error in these determinations was due to the finite closure time of the valve in the ventilator, and to the compliance of the gas in the tubing connecting the ventilator with the model. We conclude that the Siemens Servo Ventilator 900C can be used to conveniently obtain estimates of resistance and compliance in ventilated patients.
Changes in lung tissue fibronectin content and synthesis during postnatal lung growth
Authors: Plumb Deborah J. , Dubaybo Basim A. , Thet Lyn A.
Published: March 2007

We studied changes in lung tissue fibronectin content and synthesis during postnatal lung growth in rats. We reasoned that fibronectin, which is important in cell differentiation, migration, and adhesion, and in the organization of the extracellular matrix, might play a role in the rapid cell proliferation and alveolar septal formation that occurs postnally in mammalian lungs. Newborn rats were sacrificed at 4, 7, 11, 14, and 21 days after birth. The lungs were perfused and lavaged, tissue fibronectin was extracted using urea and heparin (Bray et al, Science 1981; 214:793) and the extracted fibronectin was measured by enzymelinked immunoassay. Tissue fibronectin synthesis was measured by the in vivo incorporation of 35S‐methionine into fibronectin that was extracted from lung tissue and immunoprecipitated. Lavage fibronectin and albumin content and lung tissue collagen (hydroxyproline) content were also determined. Lung tissue fibronectin content per g dry lung almost doubled between days 4 and 7 after birth, was slightly higher at day 14 than at day 7, and decreased sharply between days 14 and 21. Lung tissue fibronectin synthesis per g dry lung increased steadily between days 4 and 14 to reach a peak value of about 2.5 times the 4‐day value; it then decreased sharply between days 14 and 21. The period of increased fibronectin content and synthesis (4 to 14 days) coincided with the period during which lung cell proliferation and secondary alveolar septa formation are known to be the most active, and the sharp decrease in fibronectin content and synthesis (between 14 and 21 days) coincided with the period during which lung growth and remodeling markedly decrease. The changes in lavage fibronectin and tissue collagen content differed markedly from those in tissue fibronectin. Our results indicate that fibronectin may play a role in postnatal lung growth and remodeling and are consistent with the known importance of fibronectin in cell function and in tissue growth and repair.
Diagnostic bronchoalveolar lavage in children with AIDS
Authors: Bye Michael R. , Bernstein Larry , Shah Kiran , Ellaurie Maadhava , Rubinstein Arye
Published: March 2007

Between October, 1985 and May 1987, 29 children (mean age 22 ± 22 months, range 2–54 months) with AIDS or ARC developed acute respiratory illness. The initial diagnostic procedure was flexible fiberoptic bronchoscopy, with bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL). BAL was positive for Pneumocystis carinii in 14 and for respiratory syncytial virus, Staphylococcus aureus, and Escherichia coli in 3 additional patients. Subsequent lung tissue analysis and/or clinical course suggested no false negative lavages. Complications possibly related to the procedure occurred in two patients. We find BAL an effective diagnostic technique in these patients, offering a less invasive alternative to open lung biopsy.