bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hope during the first months after acute spinal cord injury
Authors: Lohne Vibeke , Severinsson Elisabeth
Published: July 2004

Background.  According to the general literature on hope, individuals who are hopeful live more positive lives than those who experience hopelessness. Hope has been defined as a positive orientation toward future improvements, and is associated with health and well‐being.

Aim.  This paper reports a study that explored patients’ experiences of hope following spinal cord injury.

Method.  Data were collected by personal interviews (n = 10) at a rehabilitation institution in Norway. A phenomenological‐hermeneutic approach was used to extract the meaningful content of patients’ experiences. The analysis was performed as a spiral process that included a reading to gain a sense of the whole, followed by identification of meaningful parts and a comprehensive and understandable interpretation of the whole.

Findings.  Two themes emerged: ‘images of the past and future’, and ‘balancing between inner emotional dichotomies’ that were, mainly, related to experiences of courage/uncertainty and patience/restlessness.

Discussion.  All participants experienced hope. The substance of hope – being able to walk again and hoping for recovery – was a universal experience among participants and was comprehended in terms of positive expectations. The process of hope involved continuous ‘ups and downs’. Patients were in need of skilled nursing care to enable and foster hope during the first months following acute spinal cord injury.

Conclusion.  In conclusion, patients hoped for recovery and every improvement stimulated hope. The process of hope was future‐oriented, characterized by dichotomies. Nurses need the skills to foster hope and enable recently injured patients to look beyond the immediate situation and direct their energies appropriately.
The Chordae Tendineae of the Heart in Chicken
Authors: Yildiz D. , Cavusoglu K.
Published: July 2004

In this study, the chordae tendineae of 10 adult chickens have been investigated by means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM). It has been observed that the diameter of the collagen fibrils on the left side of the heart was greater than those on the right side. The present study has determined that only perichordal and interchordal ligaments are present in the chicken. It was also observed that axial tendons were surrounded by perichordal membrane. Although no difference was evident among the apex of the chordae, differences were observed between the base and apex of the same chordae.
Light and Transmission Electron Microscopy of Immature Camelus Dromedarius Oocyte
Authors: Nili H. , Mesbah F. , Kafi M. , Nasr Esfahani M. H.
Published: July 2004

In order to provide a consistent system for laboratory production of embryos, the characteristics of immature camel oocyte must first be described. The objective of this study was to define ultrastructural features of immature camel oocyte. Ovaries were obtained from camels at a local abattoir, and then transported to the laboratory within 2 h. Camelus cumulus oocyte complexes (COCs) were aspirated from 2–6 mm follicles using a 22‐gauge needle. Excellent and good quality COCs were selected and prepared for transmission electron microscopy study using a cavity slide. The fine structure of camel oocyte is morphologically similar to that of other mammalian oocytes. However, some minor differences exist between COC of camel and other mammalian species. Different size and shape of membrane‐bound vesicles, lipid droplet, mitochondria and cortical granules were distributed throughout the ooplasm. Discrete or in association with endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi complexes were observed in the periphery of the oocytes. The majority of the oocytes were in the germinal vesicle stage.
Histochemical Study on Neurodegeneration in the Olfactory Bulb after Transient Forebrain Ischaemia in the Mongolian Gerbil
Authors: Koh U. S. , Hwang I. K. , Lee J. C. , Lee H. Y. , Seong N. S. , Chung H. G. , Kim J. H. , Lee H. J. , Choi G. P. , Kang T.‐C. , Won M. H.
Published: July 2004

In the present study, we investigated the ischaemia‐related neurodegeneration in the main and accessory olfactory bulb (AOB) after 5 min transient forebrain ischaemia in the Mongolian gerbil using the acid fuchsin staining method. Between 5 and 15 days after ischaemia, acid fuchsin positive cells markedly increased in the external plexiform layer (EPL), mitral cell layer (ML) and glomerular layer (GL) of the main olfactory bulb (MOB), and in the mixed cell layer (MCL) and GL of the AOB. By 30 days after ischaemia reperfusion, acid fuchsin positive neurons were shrunken and showed low acidophilia in somata. Many necrotic vacuoles were found in the EPL and GL of the MOB 30 days after ischaemia. At this time, necrotic vacuoles were very few in the AOB. Therefore, our results suggest that the GL and EPL of the MOB are vulnerable to ischaemic damage at a later time after ischaemic insult, and that the AOB is more resistant to ischaemic damage as compared with the MOB.
Immunohistochemical Study on the Endocrine Cells in Gut of the Stomachless Teleost, Zacco platypus (Cyprinidae)
Authors: Ku S. K. , Lee J. H. , Lee H. S.
Published: July 2004

The regional distribution and relative frequency of neurohormonal peptides‐producing cells were demonstrated in the gut of the stomachless teleost, Zacco platypus (Temminck et Schegel), using 10 types of specific antisera raised against mammalian regulatory peptides. The gut of Z. platypus was divided into five portions from proximal to distal (segment I–V). Most of immunoreactive cells in the epithelial lining portion, between epithelial cells, were generally spherical or spindle shape having long cytoplasmic process that was reached via the lumen while cells round in shape were found in the basal portions of epithelial lining occasionally. Serotonin‐, somatostatin‐, glucagon‐, cholecystokinin (CCK)‐8 and pancreatic polypeptide (PP)‐immunoreactive cells were observed in this study. However, no chromogranin A‐, secretin‐, vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP)‐, substance P‐ and bombesin‐immunoreactive cells were found. Serotonin‐immunoreactive cells were demonstrated throughout the entire gut tract and occurred more frequently than other cells. Somatostatin‐immunoreactive cells were restricted to proximal segments of the gut (segment I–III) with rare frequencies, and glucagon‐immunoreactive cells were demonstrated in the proximal segments of the gut (segment I, II) with moderate to few occurences. CCK‐8‐immunoreactive cells were found throughout the whole intestinal tract except for most proximal segment (segment I) with moderate to few frequencies and PP‐immunoreactive cells were demonstrated in the proximal to middle segments, segment I–III, with a few, rare and rare frequencies, respectively.
Chronological Alterations of P2X3 Receptor Expression in the Trigeminal Ganglion after Ischaemic Insult in the Mongolian Gerbil
Authors: Hwang I. K. , Lee H. Y. , Yoo K. Y. , Seong N. S. , Chung H. G. , Kim J. H. , Lee H. J. , Lee W.‐H. , Kang T.‐C. , Won M. H.
Published: July 2004

P2X receptors play a role in the transduction of sensory signals like pain. Few studies have been undertaken on altered P2X3 receptor (P2X3) expression in sensory neurones after peripheral nerve injury. In the present study, we investigated chronological alterations in P2X3 immunoreactivity and its protein content in the trigeminal ganglion after ischaemic insult in the Mongolian gerbil. In the sham‐operated group, P2X3‐immunoreactive neurones were found abundantly in small‐ and medium‐sized neurones. From 1 day after ischaemic insult, the number of P2X3‐immunoreactive neurones decreased significantly. At 5 days after ischaemic insult, P2X3 immunoreactivity was observed in few neurones, but its immunoreactivity was weak. However, the number of cresyl violet‐positive neurones was unchanged throughout this period in all groups. These results suggest that transient trigeminal ganglion ischaemia may provoke a decrease of P2X3 expression and its protein content, and that this down‐regulation of P2X3 may be related to the altered pain and thermal sensation without being associated with a transient ischaemic insult.
Endocrine‐Paracrine Cells of the Male Urogenital Apparatus: a Comparative Histochemical and Immunohistochemical Study in some Domestic Ungulates
Authors: Arrighi S. , Cremonesi F. , Bosi G. , Domeneghini C.
Published: July 2004

Specimens of testis, excurrent duct including the male accessory glands and urethra, were studied in boars, bulls, horses and donkeys, in order to localize endocrine/paracrine cells. Silver impregnation methods were used to test the argentaffinity and/or argyrophilia of cells. Immunoreactivities to chromogranin A, 5‐hydroxytryptamine, somatostatin, [met]‐ and [leu]‐ enkephalins, gastrin‐releasing peptide, calcitonin gene‐related peptide, neuropeptide Y, substance P, vasoactive intestinal peptide, β‐endorphin antisera were tested by a streptavidin‐biotin method. In the testis, epididymis, ductus deferens and vesicular gland no endocrine cells were found in any of the animals studied. Chromogranin‐A, serotonin, somatostatin and enkephalins were present in endocrine/paracrine cells in the surface or glandular epithelia, whereas all other antisera gave negative results. In the prostatic complex and the urethral epithelium, the most consistent number of endocrine cells was serotonin‐immunoreactive. Few cells were also argentaffin and a very limited number of them showed argyrophily and chromogranin‐A immunoreactivity. Somatostatin‐and enkephalin‐immunoreactive cells were rare in the bull and boar, absent in stallions. This comparative study carried out on different species of domestic ungulates has shown deeply different immunophenotypes, even comparing species that are in a very close zoological relationship with one another, such as the horse and the donkey.
The Venous Drainage of the Heart in Porcupines (Hystrix cristata)
Authors: Atalar Ö. , Yilmaz S. , Di̇nç G. , Özdemi̇r D.
Published: July 2004

The venous drainage of the heart in porcupines (Hystrix cristata) was investigated. Each of the five adult porcupines (three males, two females) was injected with a coloured latex mixture via the V. cava caudalis for the demonstration of the cardiac veins. The dissection of the specimens revealed that the venous drainage of the heart in porcupines was made by the V. cordis magna, V. distalis ventriculi sinistri, V. proximalis ventriculi sinistri, V. cordis caudalis (the left marginal vein), V. cordis media and Vv. cordis dextrae. The cardiac veins were observed in a subepicardial course on the heart except for the R. interventricularis paraconalis. The R. interventricularis paraconalis showed an intramyocardial course until the middle of the sulcus interventricularis paraconalis, and a subepicardial course after this point. The V. cordis magna and V. distalis ventriculi sinistri opened to the sinus coronarius. The V. cordis caudalis and the V. cordis media drained into the V. cava caudalis. The venous drainage of the conus arteriosus was made by the left V.  coni arteriosi opening to the R. interventricularis paraconalis, and by the right V. coni arteriosi which continued to the Vv. cordis dextrae.
Histochemical Skeletal Muscle Fibre Types in the Sheep
Authors: Peinado B. , Latorre R. , Váquez‐Autón J. M. , Poto A. , Ramírez G. , López‐Albors O. , Moreno F. , Gil F.
Published: July 2004

In this study, the differentiation of adult and postnatal muscle fibres in sheep longissimus thoracis muscle has been characterized. By using a variety of histochemical methods, we have investigated the m‐ATPase and metabolic activities of skeletal muscle fibres in adult sheep and lambs aged between 1 day and 3 months. Types I, IIA, IIB and IIC fibres were identified. The results showed that the interpretation of the fibre type composition depends on the methods used. The findings also revealed that the fibre types IIA and IIB can be separated histochemically in sheep by using the correct m‐ATPase technique, even at early stages of postnatal development, and that the origin of the four different fibres of the adult can be traced back to early postnatal stages.
A Morphometric Investigation on Breed‐Specific Features Affecting Sagittal Rotational and Lateral Bending Mobility in the Canine Cervical Spine (C3–C7)
Authors: Breit S. , Künzel W.
Published: July 2004

Vertebral and inter‐vertebral parameters obtained in large breeds (n = 74), small breeds (n = 35), and Dachshunds (n = 30) were compared to reveal potential differences in the range of motion of the cervical spine between these three groups of breeds. Body size normalized dimensions of vertebral and inter‐vertebral parameters and correlations between these indicate large canine breeds to have a tendency towards higher range of motion in sagittal rotation and lateral bending compared with Dachshunds and small breeds. Higher mobility in large breeds is based on significantly (P < 0.05) lower vertebral endplate heights and widths, shorter vertebral bodies and longer inter‐vertebral discs, wider but shorter cranial and caudal articular surfaces, larger differences in width between caudal and cranial joining facets (compared with Dachshunds from C3/4 to C6/7, compared with small breeds from C4/5 to C5/6), and larger differences in length between caudal and cranial joining facets. Large differences in width between caudal and cranial joining facets were associated with small distances between the most medial (C3/4 to C6/7) and lateral (C3/4 to C5/6) aspects of the articular surfaces as well as with small differences in length between caudal and cranial joining facets (C3/4 to C5/6). This suggests that from C3/4 to C5/6 a higher range of motion in lateral bending is coupled to a lower range of motion in sagittal rotation. The present findings contribute also to explain the higher incidence of degenerative lesions of the cervical spine in large dogs.
Variation in Vocal Performance in the Songs of a Wood‐Warbler: Evidence for the Function of Distinct Singing Modes
Authors: Beebee Martin D.
Published: July 2004

Male North American wood‐warblers (family Parulidae) subdivide their song repertoires into two different categories, or modes, of singing (first and second category songs). These two modes are thought to be specialized for interacting with females and males, although the data are inconclusive. I conducted an acoustic analysis of the song types used by yellow warblers (Dendroica petechia) for type I (first category) and type II (second category) singing to ask whether there are consistent structural differences between them which could provide insight into how they might function as separate signals. I found that type I songs are performed closer to the upper boundary of a song performance limit, measured in terms of the difficulty of production, compared with type II songs. By contrast, the performance of specific song types did not depend on whether they were used for type I singing vs. type II singing by different males. In addition, type I songs had a greater amplitude increase across the first two syllables compared with type II songs. There was no relationship between the performance of type I or type II songs and male condition. These results suggest that wood‐warblers might subdivide their song repertoire into distinct categories to highlight the relative vocal performance of their songs.
Social Behavior of Larvae of the Neotropical Processionary Weevil Phelypera distigma (Boheman) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae: Hyperinae)
Authors: Costa James T. , Fitzgerald Terrence D. , Pescador‐Rubio Alfonso , Mays Jonathan , Janzen Daniel H.
Published: July 2004

Socially gregarious behavior among free‐living leaf‐eating insect larvae occurs mostly among Lepidoptera, Symphyta, and a few Chyrsomelidae (Coleoptera). However, the Neotropical hyperine curculionid Phelypera distigma has also evolved this lifestyle, exhibiting a suite of social behaviors unique among beetles. The larvae are nomadic processionary foragers that punctuate foraging bouts with rosette‐shaped resting formations (cycloalexy). Larvae also vibrate or bob their heads rapidly when moving, especially when in contact with conspecifics, and this suggests acoustic or vibrational communication. In this study we used observational and experimental approaches to investigate the basis of processionary, cycloalexic,and head‐vibration behavior of this species. Larvae used both trail pheromones and thigmotactic signals to organize themselves into head‐to‐tail processionary columns. The trail pheromone, produced from the center of the abdomen, remains active for up to 4 h. Processions are not consistently led by particular individuals, but dynamically change over time and often temporarily break into two or more subprocessions. Subprocessions reunite through use of the trail pheromone. We found no evidence that head‐bobbing generates attraction through substrate‐borne or acoustic signals, but this behavior functions in direct contact to excite group activity. Time‐lapse videography used to analyze cycloalexic group formation showed that larvae transition from feeding in a line along the leaf margin to cycloalexic formations on the upper leaf surface via a coordinated back‐up movement that brings the posterior tip of their abdomens into contact. We identify three phases of cycloalexic formation: line‐up, back‐up, and an adjustment phase. Complete assembly can be achieved in as little as 5 s, but often the two phases establishing the basic rosette lasts 5–10 min, while the adjustment phase slowly tightens the group over a period of up to an hour. Collectively these studies present the first documented case of chemical trail marking in a beetle, and provide insight into a remarkable social‐behavioral repertoire convergent in key respects with the better‐studied social caterpillars and sawflies.
COMPARATIVE BIOAVAILABILITY OF TWO CEFADROXIL PRODUCTS USING SERUM AND URINE DATA IN HEALTHY HUMAN VOLUNTEERS
Authors: Otoom S , Hasan M , Najib N
Published: July 2004

1. The aim of the present study was to assess the bioequivalence of two cefadroxil products, namely Ultracef (a reference product) in the form of a 500 mg capsule (produced by Bristol‐Myers Squibb Laboratories, Princeton, NJ, USA) and Roxil (a test product) in the form of a 500 mg capsule (produced by Tabuk Pharmaceutical Manufacturing, Tabuk, Saudi Arabia).

2. The study was performed under US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) guidelines (http://www.fda.gov/cder) on 24 healthy male subjects. Both products were administered orally as a single dose (1 × 500 mg capsule) separated by a 1 week washout period. Following oral administration, blood and urine samples were obtained and analysed for cefadroxil concentrations using a sensitive and specific HPLC assay.

3. There were no statistically significant differences between the two products in either the mean concentration–time profiles or the cumulative urinary excretion of cefadroxil at various times. Similarly, no statistical significance was observed in the pharmacokinetic parameters reflecting rate and extent of drug absorption. The relative extent of drug absorption, assessed by calculating the area under the curve (AUC) ratio for Roxil/Ultracef for 10 h and for infinity was 0.94 with 90% confidence limits (CL) of 0.91–0.98. In agreement with serum data, the average ratio (Roxil/Ultracef) of the cumulative amount of cefadroxil excreted in urine 10 h after the dose was found to be 0.97, with 90% CL of 0.88–1.05. The CL of the AUC and cumulative urinary excretion ratios are within the FDA accepted limits for bioequivalent products (0.80–1.25).

4. These findings show that serum and urine data of cefadroxil are in agreement and indicate that Roxil (the test product) and Ultracef (the reference product) are bioequivalent in terms of the rate and extent of drug absorption.
A RANDOMIZED, DOUBLE‐BLIND, PLACEBO‐CONTROLLED TRIAL OF PSEUDOEPHEDRINE IN CORYZA
Authors: Latte Jenny , Taverner David , Slobodian Peter , Shakib Sepehr
Published: July 2004

1. The aim of the present study was to assess the efficacy of pseudoephedrine in coryza.

2. In a double‐blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled design, 48 adults with acute coryza received a single oral dose of 60 mg pseudoephedrine (Sudafed™; Pfizer Consumer HealthCare Group, Caringbah, NSW, Australia) or matching placebo. Before and after dosing, nasal airway resistance (NAR), nasal volume, the minimum intranasal cross‐sectional area (MCA) and the symptom of nasal congestion were measured.

3. Pseudoephedrine produced a significant decrease in NAR (P = 0.005; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.073, 0.383). Nasal volume increased, but this did not reach significance (P = 0.07; 95% CI −0.842, 0.034). There was no change in MCA and symptoms.

4. In conclusion, pseudoephedrine has a moderate effect in decreasing objective measures of nasal congestion in coryza.
5′‐AMINOIMIDAZOLE‐4‐CARBOXYAMIDE‐RIBONUCLEOSIDE‐ACTIVATED GLUCOSE TRANSPORT IS NOT PREVENTED BY NITRIC OXIDE SYNTHASE INHIBITION IN RAT ISOLATED SKELETAL MUSCLE
Authors: Stephens TJ , Canny BJ , Snow RJ , McConell GK
Published: July 2004

1. The nucleoside intermediate 5′‐aminoimidazole‐4‐carboxyamide‐ribonucleoside (AICAR) activates skeletal muscle AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) and increases glucose uptake. The AMPK phosphorylates neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS)µ in skeletal muscle fibres. There is evidence that both AMPK and nNOSµ may be involved in the regulation of contraction‐stimulated glucose uptake.

2. We examined whether both AICAR‐ and contraction‐stimulated glucose uptake were mediated by NOS in rat skeletal muscle.

3. Rat isolated epitrochlearis muscles were subjected in vitro to electrically stimulated contractions for 10 min and/or incubated in the presence or absence of AICAR (2 mmol/L) or the NOS inhibitor NG‐monomethyl‐l‐arginine (l‐NMMA; 100 µmol/L).

4. Muscle contraction significantly (P < 0.05) altered the metabolic profile of the muscle. In contrast, AICAR and l‐NMMA had no effect on the metabolic profile of the muscle, except that AICAR increased muscle 5′‐aminoimidazole‐4‐carboxyamide‐ribonucleotide (ZMP) and AICAR content. Nitric oxide synthase inhibition caused a small but significant (P < 0.05) reduction in basal 3‐O‐methylglucose transport, which was observed in all treatments. 5′‐Aminoimidazole‐4‐carboxyamide‐ribonucleoside significantly increased (P < 0.05) glucose transport above basal, with NOS inhibition decreasing this slightly (increased by 209% above basal compared with 184% above basal with NOS inhibition). Contraction significantly increased glucose transport above basal, with NOS inhibition substantially reducing this (107% increase vs 31% increase). 5′‐Aminoimidazole‐4‐carboxyamide‐ribonucleoside plus contraction in combination were not additive on glucose transport.

5. These results suggest that NO plays a role in basal glucose uptake and may regulate contraction‐stimulated glucose uptake. However, NOS/nitric oxide do not appear to be signalling intermediates in AICAR‐stimulated skeletal muscle glucose uptake.
REGULATION OF ION TRANSPORT BY 5‐HYDROXYTRYPTAMINE IN RAT COLON
Authors: Ning Yang , Zhu Jin Xia , Chan Hsiao Chang
Published: July 2004

1. 5‐Hydroxytryptamine (5‐HT) modulates the motility and secretion of the gastrointestinal tract. To examine the direct effect of 5‐HT on the secretions of colonic epithelial cells, a short‐circuit current was used to measure electrolyte transport in the rat stripped distal colon. A neuronal Na+ channel blocker and a cyclo‐oxygenase inhibitor were routinely added in experiments to abolish the effects of the enteric nervous system and endogenous prostaglandin, respectively.

2. Basolateral application of 5‐HT (10 µmol/L) induced an increase in the short circuit current (ISC). Removal of extracellular Cl–, HCO3– or both resulted in a 59.6, 76.4 and 90% reduction of 5‐HT‐elicited responses, respectively. The Ca2+‐dependent Cl– channel blocker 4,4′‐diisothiocyanatostilbene‐2,2′‐disulphonic acid (DIDS) had no effect on the 5‐HT‐induced increase in ISC, but the selective cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) channel blocker glibenclamide (1 mmol/L) inhibited 5‐HT‐induced increases in ISC by approximately 92.9%. Removal of apical Na+ reduced the 5‐HT‐induced increase in ISC by 33.3%.

3. Basolateral pretreatment with 100 µmol/L bumetanide (an inhibitor of the Na+–K+−2Cl– cotransporter), 200 µmol/L DIDS (an inhibitor of the Na+–HCO3– transporter or the Cl–/HCO3– exchanger) or both decreased the ΔISC induced by 5‐HT by approximately 75.5, 59.0 and 86.3%, respectively. Removal of basolateral Na+ also reduced the current evoked by 5‐HT.

4. The selective 5‐HT4 antagonist GR113808 (1 µmol/L) totally abolished the 5‐HT‐induced increase in ISC, whereas 2‐methyl‐5‐HT (100 µmol/L) induced a weak ISC response.

5. In conclusion, the present study has demonstrated that 5‐HT can elicit Cl–‐ and HCO3– anion secretion and Na+ absorption by acting directly on colonic epithelial cells via 5‐HT4 receptors.
ISOLIQUIRITIGENIN INHIBITS THE PROLIFERATION AND INDUCES THE APOPTOSIS OF HUMAN NON‐SMALL CELL LUNG CANCER A549 CELLS
Authors: Hsu Ya‐Ling , Kuo Po‐Lin , Chiang Lien‐Chai , Lin Chun‐Ching
Published: July 2004

1. Isoliquiritigenin (ISL) is a natural pigment with the simple chalcone structure 4,2′,4′‐trihydroxychalcone. In the present study, we report, for the first time, ISL‐induced inhibition of the proliferation of the human non‐small cell lung cancer A549 cell line.

2. The results showed that ISL not only inhibited A549 cell proliferation, but also induced apoptosis and blocked cell cycle progression in the G1 phase. An ELISA assay demonstrated that ISL significantly increased the expression of p53 and p21/WAF1 protein, which caused cell cycle arrest.

3. An enhancement in Fas and its two ligands, namely membrane‐bound Fas ligand (mFasL) and soluble Fas ligand (sFasL), may be responsible for the apoptotic effect induced by ISL.

4. Taken together, the results indicate that the p53 and Fas/FasL apoptotic system may participate in the antiproliferative activity of ISL in A549 cells.
DOSE–RESPONSE OF ROPIVACAINE ADMINISTERED CAUDALLY TO CHILDREN UNDERGOING SURGICAL PROCEDURES UNDER SEDATION WITH MIDAZOLAM
Authors: Aguirre‐Garay F Tonatiu , García Rosario , Nava‐Ocampo Alejandro A
Published: July 2004

1. In a double‐blind randomized controlled design, 50 children were allocated to receive bupivacaine 0.25% or ropivacaine 0.25%, 0.32%, 0.40% or 0.50% by caudal block.

2. Caudal block was performed after induction of anaesthesia with 2–5% sevoflurane, atropine 10 µg/kg and midazolam 100–300 µg/kg. During the surgical procedure, patients were maintained under spontaneous ventilation and no intravenous or inhalatory anaesthetic agent was administered. For transoperative sedation, midazolam 100–300 µg/kg was administered every 0.5–1.0 h. Transoperative cardiovascular response, postoperative analgesia and local and systemic complications were evaluated.

3. Groups were similar (P > 0.05) in sex, age, weight and in the time elapsed from caudal block to the beginning of the surgical procedure. The surgical time was significantly lower in the ropivacaine 0.25% group. The duration of analgesia was 24 h with ropivacaine 0.25% and approximately 10 h in the other four groups (P < 0.001). Linear regression analysis revealed a significant relationship between the postoperative analgesic period produced by ropivacaine and the surgical time (r = − 0.48, two‐sided P = 0.002). Systolic and diastolic blood pressures remained in the physiologically normal range for the duration of the transoperative period. Vomiting was present in only one patient receiving ropivacaine 0.50%.

4. In children, the duration of analgesia produced by caudal block with ropivacaine may be affected by surgical time. At surgical times of 0.5–1 h, ropivacaine 0.25% produced at least 24 h postoperative analgesia. At similar surgical times, ropivacaine 0.32%, 0.40% and 0.50% produced similar analgesic times to bupivacaine 0.25%.
EFFECT OF GLYCINE ON TISSUE FATTY ACID COMPOSITION IN AN EXPERIMENTAL MODEL OF ALCOHOL‐INDUCED HEPATOTOXICITY
Authors: Senthilkumar Rajagopal , Nalini Namasivayam
Published: July 2004

1. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of the administration of glycine, a non‐essential amino acid, on blood alcohol levels and tissue fatty acid composition in experimental rats.

2. Liver cell damage was induced by the administration of ethanol (7.9 g/kg bodyweight) for 30 days by intragastric intubation. Control rats were given isocaloric glucose solution. Glycine was subsequently administered at a dose of 0.6 g/kg bodyweight every day by intragastric intubation for the next 30 days.

3. Feeding alcohol significantly elevated the activities of serum aspartate transaminase (AST), alanine transaminase (ALT), alkaline phosphatases (ALP) and γ‐glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) and altered the liver and brain fatty acid composition compared with control rats. Subsequently, glycine supplementation to alcohol‐fed rats significantly lowered the activities of serum AST, ALT, ALP, GGT and normalized the liver and brain fatty acid composition compared with untreated alcohol‐fed rats.

4. Thus, the present study demonstrates that oral administration of glycine confers a significant protective effect against alcohol‐induced hepatotoxicity by virtue of its ability to optimize the activities of serum AST, ALT, ALP and GGT, as well as the tissue fatty acid composition.
OXIDIZED LOW‐DENSITY LIPOPROTEIN INDUCES ENDOTHELIAL PROGENITOR CELL SENESCENCE, LEADING TO CELLULAR DYSFUNCTION
Authors: Imanishi Toshio , Hano Takuzo , Sawamura Tatsuya , Nishio Ichiro
Published: July 2004

1. Recent studies have revealed an association between coronary risk factors and both the number and function of bone marrow‐derived endothelial progenitor cells (EPC). We investigated the effect of oxidized low‐density lipoprotein (ox‐LDL) on the senescence of EPC, leading to cellular dysfunction.

2. Endothelial progenitor cells were isolated from human peripheral blood and characterized. The exposure of cultured EPC to ox‐LDL (10 µg/mL) significantly accelerated the rate of senescence compared with control during 20 days in culture as determined by acidic β‐galactosidase staining. Oxidized LDL‐induced EPC senescence was significantly inhibited by pretreatment with either lectin‐like ox‐LDL receptor‐1 (LOX‐1) antibody (Ab) or atorvastatin (P < 0.01).

3. Because cellular senescence is critically influenced by telomerase, which elongates telomeres, we measured telomerase activity using a polymerase chain reaction–ELISA‐based assay. Oxidized LDL significantly diminished telomerase activity to approximately 50%, an effect that was significantly abolished by pretreatment with either LOX‐1 Ab or atorvastatin (P < 0.01).

4. We examined whether ox‐LDL‐induced EPC senescence translates into EPC dysfunction. An MTS assay disclosed an inhibitory effect of ox‐LDL on EPC proliferation. In a Matrigel assay, EPC treated with ox‐LDL were less likely to participate in network fomation compared with controls.

5. In conclusions, ox‐LDL accelerates the onset of EPC senescence, which may be related to telomerase inactivation. Oxidized LDL‐induced EPC senescence leads to the impairment of proliferative capacity and network formation.
GREATER HYPERTROPHY IN RIGHT THAN LEFT VENTRICLES IS ASSOCIATED WITH PULMONARY VASCULOPATHY IN SINOAORTIC‐DENERVATED WISTAR‐KYOTO RATS
Authors: Miao Chao‐Yu , Cai Guo‐Jun , Tao Xia , Xie He‐Hui , Su Ding‐Feng
Published: July 2004

1. Biventricular hypertrophy has been described in a high blood pressure variability (BPV) model of sinoaortic‐denervated (SAD) rats without systemic hypertension. To explore the possible involvement of the lung in SAD‐induced right ventricular hypertrophy (RVH), we examined lung morphology, in addition to systemic haemodynamics and ventricle morphology, in Wistar‐Kyoto rats 32 weeks after SAD.

2. In Wistar‐Kyoto rats 32 weeks after SAD, there existed a substantial elevation in BPV, with no change in the average level of arterial pressure. Biventricular hypertrophy following SAD was characterized by a greater hypertrophy in right than left ventricles; both absolute and normalized right ventricular weights were significantly increased by 22 and 27%, respectively, and only normalized left ventricular weight was significantly increased by 12%. No infarcts were found in any ventricles examined.

3. In the lung, the most prominent change following SAD was pulmonary vasculopathy, including wall thickening, perivascular fibrosis and cell infiltration. In pulmonary arteries with an internal diameter of 70–130 µm, the external diameter, wall thickness and wall thickness to internal diameter ratio were increased in SAD compared with control rats.

4. There was no correlation between right and left ventricular weights. In contrast with BPV‐correlated left ventricular weight, right ventricular weight was correlated with the wall thickness of the pulmonary artery, but not with BPV.

5. These findings suggest that greater RVH following SAD is associated with pulmonary vasculopathy, but is not secondary to the left ventricular problems or high BPV.
EFFECT OF THE ANTIDEPRESSANT MAPROTILINE ON CA2+ MOVEMENT AND PROLIFERATION IN HUMAN PROSTATE CANCER CELLS
Authors: Hsu Shu‐Shong , Chen Wei‐Chuan , Lo Yuk‐Keung , Cheng Jin‐Shiung , Yeh Jeng‐Hsien , Cheng He‐Hsing , Chen Jin‐Shyr , Chang Hong‐Tai , Jiann Bang‐Ping , Huang Jong‐Khing , Jan Chung‐Ren
Published: July 2004

1. The effect of maprotiline, an antidepressant, on human prostate cells is unclear. In the present study, the effect of maprotiline on [Ca2+]i and growth in PC3 human prostate cancer cells was measured using the fluorescent dyes fura‐2 and tetrazolium, respectively.

2. Maprotiline caused a rapid, concentration‐dependent increase in [Ca2+]i (EC50 = 200 µmol/L). The maprotiline‐induced [Ca2+]i increase was reduced by removal of extracellular Ca2+ or pretreatment with nicardipine.

3. The maprotiline–induced Mn2+ influx‐associated fura‐2 fluorescence quench directly suggests that maprotiline caused Ca2+ influx.

4. In Ca2+‐free medium, thapsigargin, an inhibitor of the endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+‐ATPase, caused a monophasic [Ca2+]i increase, after which the effects of maprotiline of increasing [Ca2+]i were abolished. In addition, pretreatment with maprotiline reduced a major portion of the thapsigargin‐induced increase in [Ca2+]i.

5. U73122, an inhibitor of phospholipase C, abolished the ATP (but not maprotiline)‐induced increase in [Ca2+]i.

6. Overnight incubation with 1–10 µmol/L maprotiline did not alter cell proliferation, although incubation with 30–50 µmol/L maprotiline decreased cell proliferation.

7, These findings suggest that maprotiline rapidly increases [Ca2+]i in human prostate cancer cells by stimulating both extracellular Ca2+ influx and intracellular Ca2+ release and that it may modulate cell proliferation in a concentration‐dependent manner.
Study of psychosocial factors in Japanese patients suffering from menopausal disorders
Authors: Takamatsu Kiyoshi , Makita Kazuya , Nozawa Shiro
Published: July 2004

Aim:  Psychosocial elements are often found in the background of patients with menopausal disorders, and counseling based on these elements is essential for effective treatment. In the study presented here an attempt was made to extract psychosocial factors from Japanese cases of menopausal disorders in which the patients exhibited the impact of psychiatric elements and required counseling.

Methods:  A total of 97 cases in which the patients received counseling for the treatment of undefined complaints at our menopause clinic were analyzed. During counseling the patients were interviewed in regard to psychosocial factors and underwent psychological tests.

Results:  About half of them were found to have experienced various interpersonal problems as well as health‐related problems. The frequency of problems such as empty nest syndrome and loss of relatives or friends was relatively low. Work‐related anxiety or hardships of life were frequent among the premenopausal patients, while concern about aging was often noted in their postmenopausal counterparts. The incidence of empty nest syndrome was high among the ovariectomized women, but worry about aging was frequently reported by those undergoing natural menopause.

Conclusion:  This preliminary study revealed that problems related to families and the patient's health account for a large part of the psychosocial factors affecting the development of menopausal disorders in Japan. Incorporating these findings into counseling will make outpatient clinics services more acceptable to such patients.
Dental fear in adults: a meta‐analysis of behavioral interventions
Authors: Kvale Gerd , Berggren Ulf , Milgrom Peter
Published: July 2004

Abstract – Objectives: The aim of this meta‐analytic and systematic quantitative approach is to examine the effects of behavioral interventions for dental anxiety and dental phobia.

Methods: Eighty studies were identified where dental fear treatment with behavioral methods was evaluated. Thirty‐eight of 80 met entry criteria and were included in a meta‐analysis.

Results: The calculated effect sizes (ESs) for self‐reported anxiety after intervention indicate positive changes in 36 of the 38 studies and no changes in two. The overall ES = 1.8 (95% CI: 1.6, 1.8). The percent of subjects with post‐treatment dental visits in the first 6 months post‐treatment varied between 50 and 100%. The overall ES for attendance at dental visits, weighted by sample size, is 1.4 (95% CI: 1.3, 1.6). The homogeneity analysis indicates that the studies cannot be adequately described in one ES. The reported percentage of subjects with a dental visit between 6 months and 4 years post‐treatment varied from 48 to 100%. The overall weighted ES for visiting the dentist, adjusted for drop‐outs in the studies, is 1.2 (95% CI: 0.99, 1.4).

Conclusions: Despite extensive heterogeneity, changes in self‐reported anxiety represent medium to large ESs. Patients signing up for a behavioral intervention for dental fear can be expected to report a significant reduction in their fear, and this effect generally seems to be lasting. Mean long‐term attendance (>4 years after treatment) is 77%.
An ecological study of caries experience, school performance and material deprivation in 5‐year‐old state primary school children
Authors: Muirhead Vanessa , Marcenes Wagner
Published: July 2004

Abstract –  Aim:  To investigate whether measures of school performance and socioeconomic circumstances could be used as indicators of caries experience in 5‐year‐old Wandsworth state primary schoolchildren.

Design:  An ecological study using aggregated caries data collected in the British Association for the Study of Community Dentistry (BASCD) Oral Health Survey of 5‐year‐old children (2001), Jarman scores generated from national census data and matched by school postcodes (1991), school performance results in English, mathematics and Linguistic Awareness of Reading Readiness test (LARR; literacy) and free school meals recipient data from the Local Education Authority, Research and Evaluation Unit (2001).

Setting:  State primary schools in the London borough of Wandsworth, UK.

Subjects:  All 55 Wandsworth state primary schools including 1968 5‐year‐old pupils.

Outcome measure: The school mean dmft score.

Results:  Simple linear regression analysis demonstrated that school mean dmft was statistically significantly associated with all five explanatory variables: English (P = 0.001), mathematics (P = 0.002), LARR (P < 0.001), the percentage of children receiving free school meals (P < 0.001) and the school address Jarman score (P = 0.02). Stepwise multiple linear regression identified the LARR score and the percentage of children receiving free school meals as the strongest indicators of school mean dmft score explaining 41% of the variation in school mean dmft score.

Conclusion:  Early school performance results in English, mathematics and LARR, the percentage of children receiving free school meals and school address Jarman scores were good indicators of school mean dmft scores in 5‐year‐old children in the Wandsworth state primary schools.
Periodontal epidemiology: towards social science or molecular biology?
Authors: Baelum Vibeke , Lopez Rodrigo
Published: July 2004

Abstract –  Terms such as ‘molecular epidemiology’ and ‘genetic epidemiology’ have been coined to depict the change from ‘traditional epidemiology’, concerned with disease determinants at the community or society level, over to ‘modern epidemiology’, which is concerned with determinants operating at the individual level or even below, i.e. at the organ, tissue, cell, or molecular level. In this commentary, we point out to the limitations of this development and suggest that more emphasis is placed on making the presumed causal disease models explicit, when investigating the relationship between putative determinants and disease. Understanding the disease processes at the micro‐level is insufficient for understanding disease at the individual level; and disease patterns at the population level cannot be understood unless it is realized that individuals exist in a variety of contexts that cannot be reduced to individual attributes.
Can nonstandardized bitewing radiographs be used to assess the presence of alveolar bone loss in epidemiologic studies?
Authors: Merchant Anwar T. , Pitiphat Waranuch , Parker Jessica , Joshipura Kaumudi , Kellerman Mary , Douglass Chester W.
Published: July 2004

Abstract –  Objective:  To compare periodontitis‐associated alveolar bone loss assessment by standardized and nonstandardized radiographs in clinical and epidemiologic studies

Methods:  Participants included 37 patients aged 21–66 years with prior nonstandardized bitewing radiographs scheduled to receive bitewing radiographs as part of their next routine dental care visit. Standardized bitewing radiographs were taken with a Rinn film holder to position the film in the mouth and align the X‐rays so that they were at 90° to the film. Before taking the radiograph the bite was registered in centric relation using a polyether impression material. One registered dental hygienist took and processed all the standardized radiographs. One dentist read all radiographs using a viewing box, magnifying lens, and periodontal probe with William's markings. Radiographic bone loss was measured to the closest millimeter at mesial and distal sites of the posterior teeth excluding third molars. The examining dentist was blinded to the participant's name, age, gender, or if the radiograph was standardized or nonstandardized.

Results:  Mean bone loss (±SD) was similar in the standardized and nonstandardized groups (1.60 ± 0.72 mm versus 1.64 ± 0.85 mm), and the correlation was high (r=0.95). Periodontitis was defined as present if the participant had at least one site with 3, 4 and 5 mm bone loss. The Kappa statistics for concordance using these three cutoffs were good and ranged from 0.60 to 0.65. The sensitivity ranged from 72.7 to 80.8% and specificity from 88.5 to 90.9%.

Conclusions:  Periodontitis assessed as mean alveolar bone loss or the prevalence of disease based on alveolar bone loss can be accurately and reliably evaluated from nonstandardized radiographs.
Caries decline in the primary dentition of Belgian children over 15 years
Authors: Carvalho J. C. , D'Hoore W. , Van Nieuwenhuysen J. P.
Published: July 2004

Abstract –  Objectives:  (1) To investigate changes in caries prevalence in the primary dentition of children resident in Brussels, Belgium between 1983 and 1998, (2) to analyse associations between changes in caries and children's socioeconomic and ethnic aspects.

Methods:  In the Brussels region, children in the first grade at the same schools were sampled in cohort 1983 (n=396) and cohort 1998 (n=473). Caries experience of Belgian and non‐Belgian nationals was summarized in dmf scores. The socioeconomic status of the children was established based on their parents’ education and profession. The children were categorized in eight subgroups in relation to their socioeconomic status, ethnic origin and cohort (SESEC subgroups).

Results:  The percentage of caries‐free children increased significantly from 31.5% to 47.5%. A reduction was observed in the dmft scores from 3.9 to 2.3 (P < 0.001) and in the dmfs scores from 6.9 to 5.0 (P < 0.001). The odds ratio of being caries‐free was 2.5 times higher for privileged children and 2.3 times higher for children belonging to cohort 1998. The ancova analyses revealed that most of the SESEC subgroups showed significant reduction in dmft scores from 1983 to 1998 (P < 0.003).

Conclusions:  Children resident in Brussels showed caries decline in their primary dentition over 15 years. Diversity in caries decline was associated with children's socioeconomic status and ethnic origin.
Complete dentures and oral health‐related quality of life – do coping styles matter?
Authors: Heydecke Guido , Tedesco Lisa A. , Kowalski Charles , Inglehart Marita R.
Published: July 2004

Abstract –  Oral health‐related quality of life (OHRQOL) in edentulous patients with complete dentures is often impaired. This paper investigates the effect of different coping styles on OHRQOL.

Purpose:  (a) To assess OHRQOL of edentulous patients with conventional complete dentures, and (b) to investigate if individual differences in these patients’ styles of coping with stress affect their OHRQOL.

Materials and methods:  Data were collected from 249 fully edentulous patients with complete dentures (mean age: 66.0 years) who responded to a mailed survey (adjusted response rate: 48.8%). OHRQOL was measured with the 14‐item short form of the oral health impact profile (OHIP). Ratings of coping strategies were obtained using the 28‐item Brief COPE, an instrument measuring various styles of coping with stress. Linear regression analyses were used to explore the relationships between coping styles, background variables such as age, gender, income, and age of prosthesis, and the patients’ OHRQOL.

Results:  About 35% of the respondents reported impacts from their oral conditions on their overall OHRQOL (OHIP‐14 total score) occasionally, fairly often, or often. Physical pain was even more prevalent, with 53.3% of the respondents reporting pain impacts. The linear regression model (P < 0.0001) explained 31.1% of the variation in the OHIP‐14 total score. The coping variables instrumental support, behavioral disengagement, substance abuse, denial, and religion were significant negative predictors of OHRQOL. Only emotional support was a significant positive predictor of OHRQOL.

Conclusion:  Wearing conventional complete dentures has a significant impact on OHRQOL. This impact is moderated by the styles a patient uses to cope with stress. Using emotional support has a positive effect on OHRQOL, while other coping styles, namely instrumental support, behavioral disengagement, substance abuse, denial, and religion are significant negative predictors of OHRQOL.