bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Germinated Barley Foodstuff Exhibits Different Adsorption Properties for Hydrophilic versus Hydrophobic Bile Acids
Authors: Araki Yoshio , Andoh Akira , Fujiyama Yoshihide , Kanauchi Osamu , Takenaka Katsuhiko , Higuchi Akihiko , Bamba Tadao
Published: April 2003

Background/Aims: Germinated barley foodstuff (GBF), a type of dietary fiber, exhibits therapeutic effects in ulcerative colitis (UC) patients. However, the precise mechanisms responsible for these effects are still under investigation. On the other hand, it has been suggested that bile salts in the gut lumen play an important role in the integrity of the intestinal mucosa. The aim of the present study was to investigate the ability of GBF to adsorb bile salts in vitro. Methods: The binding capacities of GBF, enzymatically digested GBF (GBF-fiber), and α-cellulose for unconjugated and conjugated bile salts were measured using Langmuir’s method. The morphology of these fibers was observed by light and fluorescence microscopy. Results: GBF adsorbed bile salts very strongly, especially hydrophobic bile salts. Even after enzymatic digestion, the GBF fiber still exhibited strong binding capacity, whereas α-cellulose exhibited very low binding capacity. Microscopically, GBF consists mainly of aleurone, a lattice-like cell wall with cytoplasm enclosed. After enzymatic digestion, the cytoplasm was also digested. Conclusion: GBF possesses a great capacity to adsorb bile salts. This may be part of the mechanism for the therapeutic effects of GBF in UC patients.
The Long-Term Efficacy of the Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt (TIPS) for the Treatment of Bleeding Anorectal Varices in Cirrhosis
Authors: Ory Gaelle , Spahr Laurent , Megevand Jean-Marie , Becker Christoph , Hadengue Antoine
Published: April 2003

Background: In patients with portal hypertension and variceal hemorrhage, the transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) is indicated when drug therapy or endoscopic treatment fails to control bleeding. Ruptured esophageal or gastric varices are the most frequent causes of portal hypertension-related hemorrhage, but anorectal varices may also bleed. Although several case reports have proposed TIPS in this situation, the long-term results of this procedure have not been described. Methods: We report here the case of a 68-year-old patient with decompensated cirrhosis who presented with recurrent hematochezia due to anorectal varices. Results: A successful control of bleeding could be obtained after placement of TIPS. After 3 years of follow-up, rectal bleeding did not recur, the shunt remained primarily patent, and the patient did not present overt hepatic encephalopathy. Conclusion: TIPS procedure should be considered as an effective treatment of recurrent bleeding from anorectal varices in patients with decompensated cirrhosis.
Understanding Ageing: Further Commentary on the Limitations of Cross-Sectional Designs for Ageing Research
Authors: Hofer Scott M. , Sliwinski Martin J. , Flaherty Brian P.
Published: April 2003

Critical issues regarding the utility of age-heterogeneous cross-sectional samples for estimating associations among rates of change are briefly reviewed and further examined in response to the four insightful commentaries on our original discussion paper. These general issues are considered in terms of current practice in gerontological studies. Several of the commentaries refer to additional problems (e.g., selection/attrition, cohort differences) with cross-sectional designs for inferring correlated rates of change, often modeled as shared age-related variance. The commentators concurred with, and performed simulations that support, our primary contention that the influence of mean population trends over time has a major confounding influence on cross-sectional estimates of association. While this confound has been acknowledged and demonstrated in a number of publications over this century, cross-sectional studies and covariance modeling remain common practice in gerontological studies. We question the value of this practice for advancing aging theory and would like to see greater emphasis placed on longitudinal studies and the use of cross-sectional designs and analytic methods that permit separation of age-related mean trends from estimates of association between age-related variables.
Age-Related Bone Loss: Old Bone, New Facts
Authors: Chan George K. , Duque Gustavo
Published: April 2003

The human skeleton serves several functions for the body: support, locomotion, protection of vital organs, and housing of bone marrow. Bone remodeling is the result of the interactions of multiple elements, including osteoblasts, osteoclasts, hormones, growth factors, and cytokines, the end result being the maintenance of the bone architecture and to maintain systemic calcium homeostasis. In early life, a careful balance exists between bone formation by osteoblasts and bone resorption by osteoclasts. With aging, the process of coupled bone formation is affected by the reduction of osteoblast differentiation, activity, and life span which is further potentiated in the perimenopausal years with hormone deprivation and increased osteoclast activity. Age-related bone loss is thus not only a consequence of hormone deprivation, but also the result of changes in bone formation and cell-cell interactions with a unique pathophysiology. In this review, we describe the cellular and metabolic changes associated with aging bone and present recent evidence regarding cell differentiation within the bone marrow. We also consider the mechanism of programmed cell death, apoptosis, as being an important determinant of aging in bone as well as describe possible future interventions to prolong the life span of osteoblasts.
Differential Diagnosis of Osteoporosis
Authors: Freitag Anna , Barzel Uriel S.
Published: April 2003

Background: Dual x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) is widely used to identify persons at increased risk for osteoporotic fractures. It does not, per se, give us any diagnostic information that is necessary to determine the best therapeutic approach in an individual case. Objective: Identify conditions and tests that may impact on the diagnosis and the treatment of subjects with low bone densitometry scores. Subjects and Methods: We evaluated clinically, by history, physical examination and laboratory tests, 272 persons with low spinal and/or femoral bone absorptiometry for potential causes of osteoporosis. Results: We found that 25.3% of the patients had significant underlying conditions: 17.9% had subclinical vitamin D deficiency (osteomalacia), 6.7% had hypercalciuria and 0.7% had primary hyperparathyroidism. Conclusion: It is mandatory to go through a differential diagnosis in every case with absorptiometric data compatible with the diagnosis of osteoporosis. At the minimum, blood calcium and 25-hydroxyvitamin D and 24-hour urinary calcium excretion should be examined. This will allow the physician to determine the appropriate course of therapy in any individual patient who has abnormal DEXA findings.
Noradrenergic Inhibition of TNF Upregulation in Hemorrhagic Shock
Authors: Molina Patricia E.
Published: April 2003

The early stress responses to hemorrhagic shock, trauma and endotoxicosis are associated with an early proinflammatory response characterized by increased gene expression of proinflammatory cytokines, PMN influx and accumulation in the lung and apoptosis. The central role of the neuroendocrine system in modulating these proinflammatory responses has been strongly suggested by recent studies. Objectives: To examine the role of noradrenergic innervation in modulating the early increase in lung and spleen content of TNF-α in response to fixed-pressure (40 mm Hg) hemorrhage in vivo. Methods: Conscious unrestrained nonheparinized male Sprague-Dawley rats (n = 42) were randomized to receive intraperitoneally either 6-hydroxy-dopamine (6-OHDA; chemical sympathectomy, SNSx) or saline (0.3 ml) prior to undergoing hemorrhage followed by fluid resuscitation with lactated Ringer’s solution. Animals were sacrificed at completion of the resuscitation period and tissue samples (lung and spleen) excised for determination of TNF-α content, myeloperoxidase activity and apoptosis. Results: Hemorrhage resulted in an immediate marked elevation in circulating epinephrine and norepinephrine levels (10- and 2-fold, respectively), increasing their plasma ratio to 6:1. SNSx depleted tissue stores of norepinephrine (80%), did not alter basal plasma levels of epi- or norepinephrine or the hemorrhage-induced rise in epinephrine, but completely prevented the rise in circulating norepinephrine. Hemorrhage increased lung and spleen contents of TNF-α (55 and 72%, respectively). SNSx significantly enhanced the hemorrhage-induced rise in lung TNF in response to hemorrhage. Conclusions: These results show a suppressive role for noradrenergic innervation on the hemorrhage-induced increase in tissue TNF-α content in vivo. We speculate that the effects of norepinephrine are protective from tissue injury but are likely to contribute to the generalized immunosuppression following trauma.
Sex Differences in Estrogen Receptor Gene Polymorphism and Its Association with Lupus Nephritis in Chinese
Authors: Liu Zhi-Hong , Cheng Zhao-Hong , Gong Ru-Jun , Liu Hao , Liu Dong , Li Lei-Shi
Published: April 2003

Background/Aims: Lupus nephritis (LN) is a clinical heterogeneous autoimmune disease and genetic factors contribute to the development of LN. One of the most striking characteristics in LN is the high prevalence among childbearing women, as well as that its clinical manifestation differs in women and men, suggesting the role of sex hormones in its pathogenesis. Methods: ThePvuII and XbaI restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) of estrogen receptor (ER) gene were analyzed in 245 biopsy-proven LN patients (58 males and 187 females) and 172 normal controls (101 males and 71 females) by PCR-RFLP. The clinical and pathological features of 49 male and 152 female LN patients with different genotypes were analyzed. Results: It was found that genotype PpXx, ppxx and Ppxx were three major genotypes of ER gene in both of lupus patients and control groups. The distribution of ER gene polymorphism was quite different in lupus patients of different genders. The frequency of the PpXx genotype in male LN patients was significantly higher than both the gender matched normal controls (p < 0.05) and the female LN patients (p < 0.05), while no difference was shown in the frequency of PpXx genotype between female LN patients and gender matched controls. Interestingly, skin rashes and arthritis were found more common in the patients with PpXx genotype. The frequency of hematological abnormalities and hypertension were higher in patients with ppxx genotype (p < 0.05), while capillary thrombi and glomerular sclerosis were more frequently complicated in the patients with ppxx genotype. In addition, the renal vasculitis and interstitial injury were more frequent in those with Ppxx genotype (p < 0.01). Conclusion: The distribution of ER gene polymorphism in LN patients is distinct with different gender. The PpXxgenotype of ER gene may be associated with the susceptibility of SLE in male. ER gene polymorphism is probably one of the genetic factors contributing to the development of clinical heterogeneity and sexually dimorphic manifestations of LN.
Short-Term Outcome and Prognosis of Acute Low-Tone Sensorineural Hearing Loss by Administration of Steroid
Authors: Fuse Takeo , Aoyagi Masaru , Funakubo Tatsuo , Sakakibara Akira , Yoshida Shin
Published: April 2003

Acute low-tone hearing loss (ALHL) is a typical type of hearing loss in Ménière’s disease and thought to be caused by endolymphatic hydrops in the inner ear. We treated 40 patients with ALHL by administration of the steroid and the early outcome and prognosis of the hearing level was retrospectively evaluated. The prognosis was generally determined within 7–10 days after administration of steroid. High-dose steroid cured some patients who failed to recover with low-dose steroid therapy. Our results showed that steroid is one of the effective therapies for ALHL and supported that etiology of ALHL involves an immune response.
Evaluation of the T&T Olfactometer by Mapping c-fos Protein in an Olfactory Bulb
Authors: Kawamoto Masahiro , Ohno Koji , Tamura Manabu , Kawasaki Yoshiaki , Kubo Takeshi
Published: April 2003

Objectives: Although in Japan the T&T olfactometer is most commonly used in patients suffering from smelling disorders, no scientific analysis has been performed so far. The objective of this study was to clarify whether the five odorants used in the T&T olfactometer are suitable or not. We mapped the glomeruli activated by the five test odorants employed in the T&T olfactometer. The expression of c-fos protein as a marker of neuronal excitation was monitored using an immunohistochemical technique. Study Design: The expression of c-fos protein in the rat olfactory bulb was investigated to determine what part of the olfactory system is activated by five odorants used in the T&T olfactometer. Methods: Each rat was isolated in a clean cage for 120 min to reduce the basal expression of c-fos protein. Each rat was fixed in the cage and exposed to one of five test odorants for 90 min. The expression of c-fos protein was measured using an immunohistochemical technique. Results: Each odorant activated numerous glomeruli and the patterns of distribution of activated glomeruli were specific to each odorant. Glomeruli in most regions of the bulb were activated by all five test odorants. Conclusion: We assume that in the T&T olfactometer the optimal ((five)) odorants are employed, because the glomeruli activated by those odorants showed unique patterns in the immunohistochemical assay.
Current Status and Perspectives of Neuroprotection in Ischemic Stroke Treatment
Authors: Martínez-Vila Eduardo , Sieira Pablo Irimia
Published: April 2003

In developed countries, ischemic stroke is one of the leading causes of death and neurological impairment. The two most important therapeutic approaches in patients with acute cerebral ischemia consist of improving cerebral blood flow and blocking the biochemical and metabolic changes at the ischemic cascade level. The significant advances made in the past decade in the knowledge of the physiopathological mechanisms of cerebral ischemia, and the development of new drugs have given rise to true expectations regarding treatment and the rejection of nihilist attitudes. In the past 15 years, based on the excellent results obtained in experimental models of ischemia, many clinical trials have been conducted with different neuroprotective drugs. The results obtained in most studies have been negative, or the studies were terminated early owing to side effects. However, some drugs (citicoline, clomethiazole, piracetam and ebselen) have shown a certain degree of clinical efficacy, limited to subgroups of patients, and with a narrow therapeutic window, longer-lasting in the case of citicoline. The design of new clinical trials with neuroprotective drugs requires adequate preclinical assessment and the use of the new magnetic resonance techniques for the selection of patients and the assessment of the efficacy of treatment. The new trends in neuroprotection in focal cerebral ischemia and the results of the clinical trials published to date are reviewed.
Management Practices in Carotid Stenting
Authors: Yadav Jay S.
Published: April 2003

Carotid endarterectomy can be regarded as the standard of care for low-risk patients with severe carotid stenosis; however, this technique is less appropriate for certain patient groups. For high-risk patients, carotid stenting currently represents a suitable alternative to endarterectomy. The major cause of morbidity and mortality linked to carotid intervention is release of plaque material, which leads to microembolic obstruction of distal intracranial branch vessels and arterioles. Emboli retrieval devices are in development to help prevent distal occlusion, and effective antiplatelet therapy has a role in mitigating the clinical consequences of microembolization. Initial experience has shown that antiplatelet therapy with the adenosine diphosphate receptor antagonist clopidogrel plus aspirin (± abciximab) is associated with a very low risk of procedural stroke or stent thrombosis and does not appear to increase the risk of intracranial haemorrhage. The availability of potent antiplatelet regimens, emboli prevention devices and nitinol stents will greatly expand the spectrum of carotid disease that can be safely treated with endovascular therapy.
CADASIL: A Monogenic Condition Causing Stroke and Subcortical Vascular Dementia
Authors: Dichgans Martin
Published: April 2003

Mutations in Notch3 are the cause of cerebral autosomal dominant arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts and leukoencephalopathy (CADASIL), an inherited small vessel disease leading to subcortical strokes and vascular dementia. The phenotypic presentation is variable but remarkable for a high frequency of migraine with aura. Magnetic resonance images show a microangiopathic pattern of lesions. Prominent involvement of the temporopolar white matter and involvement of the temporopolar arcuate fibers are conspicuous findings seen in many patients. The underlying angiopathy is characterized by a unique type of ultrastructural basal lamina deposits and by degeneration of vascular smooth muscle cells which are the major source of Notch3 expression. In line with these findings there is evidence for a functional impairment of vascular smooth muscle cells. CADASIL has opened a new perspective in studying basic mechanisms of vessel wall degeneration and ischemic tissue damage related to small vessel disease.
Nomenclature of the Human Immunoglobulin Heavy (IGH) Genes
Authors: Lefranc Marie-Paule
Published: April 2003

‘Nomenclature of the Human Immunoglobulin Heavy (IGH) Genes’, the 16th report of the ‘IMGT Locus in Focus’ section, provides the first complete list of all the human IGH genes. The total number of human IGH genes per haploid genome is 170–176 (206–212 genes, if the orphons and the processed gene are included), of which 77–84 genes are functional. IMGT/Human Genome Organization (HUGO) gene names and definitions of the human IGH genes on chromosome 14q32.33, processed gene on chromosome 9 and IGH orphons on chromosomes 15 and 16 are provided with the gene functionality and the number of alleles, according to the rules of the IMGT Scientific chart, with the accession numbers of the IMGT reference sequences and with the accession ID of the Genome Database GDB and NCBI LocusLink databases, in which all the IMGT human IGH genes have been entered. The tables are available at the IMGT Marie-Paule page of IMGT, the international ImMunoGeneTics database (http://imgt.cines.fr:8104) created by Marie-Paule Lefranc, Université Montpellier II, CNRS, France.
Improving the Reproducibility of Acoustic Rhinometry in the Assessment of Nasal Function
Authors: Harar R.P.S. , Kalan A. , Kenyon G.S.
Published: April 2003

Acoustic rhinometry readings are very position dependent, and it was hypothesized that this accounts for its relative lack of reproducibility on a day-to-day basis. Multiple readings on each visit were taken to investigate their impact, if any, on improving the day-to-day reproducibility of the method. Measurements of the minimal cross-sectional area of the nose as measured by acoustic rhinometry were studied in 10 subjects following nasal decongestion. For each individual, acoustic rhinometry was performed ten times. The ten recordings were repeated again, in an identical manner on a separate day. The subjects were repositioned and the nasal probes reinserted between each measurement. The mean coefficient of variation for minimal cross-sectional area readings in all 10 subjects was calculated as 9.92%. This is comparable to the day-to-day variability of acoustic rhinometry as measured by other workers and thus supports the hypothesis that the high measurement error of the device (rhinometer) is a function of positional variation during data acquisition. We were able to demonstrate a minimal gain in intervisit reproducibility by doing multiple recordings per person, with a plateau effect of reproducibility after 7 repeat readings.
Horner’s Syndrome and Thyroid Neoplasms
Authors: Leuchter Igor , Becker Minerva , Mickel Robert , Dulguerov Pavel
Published: April 2003

Although thyroid goiter is a common condition, it rarely results in Horner’s syndrome. We report a case of a patient with an intrathoracic multinodular goiter complicated by Horner’s syndrome. Benign thyroid disease was confirmed pathologically, and the patient’s symptoms improved after surgery. In the literature, the major cause of Horner’s syndrome is neoplasia, with malignant lesions being twice as frequent as benign tumors. An extensive review of the literature demonstrates a different repartition for thyroid neoplasia: including our case, 38 cases of Horner’s syndrome secondary to a benign thyroid tumor are described, against only 8 cases caused by a thyroid carcinoma. We conclude that contrary to the commonly held opinion, Horner’s syndrome is more often due to benign thyroid diseases than to thyroid malignancies.
Functional Upper Airway Obstruction in a Child with Freeman-Sheldon Syndrome
Authors: Schefels Joerg , Wenzl Tobias G. , Merz Ulrich , Ramaekers Vincent , Holzki Josef , Rudnik-Schoeneborn Sabine , Hermanns Benita , Hörnchen Helmut
Published: April 2003

Freeman-Sheldon syndrome is defined as a combination of microstomia, deep set eyes, small palpebral fissures, arthrogryposis with ulnar deviation of the hand, talipes equinovarus and generalized muscular hypertension. Respiratory and swallowing problems are frequently encountered in these patients due to small orifices of mouth and nose. Obstruction of the upper airway tract resulting in tracheostomy has only been described twice. The described child manifested the typical dysmorphic features of Freeman-Sheldon syndrome and suffered from serious respiratory distress and swallowing difficulties from birth. The boy died at the age of 7 months after accidental decannulation of the tracheostoma during sleep. He did not show anatomical or histopathological abnormalities in the pharyngeal, laryngeal or tracheal regions. We assume that the only explanation of the repeated obstructive episodes is a functional muscular obstruction.
Stability and Interpersonal Agreement of the Interview-Based Diagnosis of Autism
Authors: Hill A. , Bölte S. , Petrova G. , Beltcheva D. , Tacheva S. , Poustka F.
Published: April 2003

Interpersonal agreement and stability of the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised (ADI-R) was examined in this study. Four raters judging 55 subjects agreed moderately to excellently on the items of the diagnostic algorithm, operationalizing the main autistic symptoms according to the classification guidelines of ICD-10 and DSM-IV. When retesting 33 individuals, some items revealed only weak stability. On the level of domains of autistic behavior and diagnosis, the interrater reliability and retest reliability were consistently convincing.
Accuracy of the Clinical Diagnosis of ‘Psychogenic Disorders‘ in the Presence of Physical Symptoms Suggesting a General Medical Condition: A 5-Year Follow-Up in 162 Patients
Authors: Schuepbach W.M. Michael , Adler Rolf H. , Sabbioni Marzio E.E.
Published: April 2003

Objective: The range of unnoticed physical disorders in patients diagnosed with a psychogenic disorder varies widely. We investigated the accuracy of the clinical diagnosis of ‘psychogenic disorder’ where physical symptoms suggesting a somatic condition (PDPS) are present. Method: All 162 cases of PDPS diagnosed between 01.01.1986 and 31.12.1987 in a medical clinic specializing in psychosomatic medicine were reviewed after 5 years. 148 follow-ups were complete. Initial diagnoses had been established using positive criteria for psychogenic diagnosis in a semistructured interview and a comprehensive clinical workup by trained clinicians. Results: In 2 (1.35%) foreign-language patients of 148 an orthopedic diagnosis had been missed. In 6 patients, the family physician gave formerly known findings a different interpretation. Half of these patients were foreigners; 5 were men; none improved; 5 had back pain. Conclusion: A semistructured interview and positive criteria for psychogenic diagnosis permitted high diagnostic accuracy with an error of 1.35% in 148 cases.
Psychological Well-Being in Rheumatoid Arthritis: Relationship to ‘Disease’ Variables and Affective Disturbance
Authors: Mangelli Lara , Gribbin Nora , Büchi Stefan , Allard Simon , Sensky Tom
Published: April 2003

Background: Resilience is likely to be important in understanding psychological responses to chronic physical illnesses. This study aimed to examine one measure of resilience – Ryff’s operationalized measure of psychological well-being (PWB) – in rheumatoid arthritis. It was hypothesized that PWB would be influenced by age and gender in the same way as in community samples, and that the absence of current mood disorder would be associated with high PWB. Methods: Rheumatology clinic outpatients (n = 104) were assessed for pain, disease activity, disability, depression and anxiety. PWB was assessed using Ryff’s six-subscale model. The measured variables were used in a logistic regression analysis to model the absence of clinically important mood disorder. Results: The expected variations in PWB according to age and gender were largely absent, with the overall findings suggesting that chronic illness in general, rather than arthritis in particular, affects PWB. Significant bivariate correlations were found between depression and pain, disease activity, disability and all six PWB subscales. However, in the regression analysis, only the PWB environmental mastery subscale and self-rated disability made significant contributions to the absence of mood disturbance, and their inclusion in the regression model correctly classified 81% of the total sample. Conclusions: These results require replication in a longitudinal study, but indicate the potential value of using PWB among people with rheumatoid arthritis to screen for individuals who may be particularly vulnerable to developing depression. It might be appropriate to target such people with focused psychological interventions.
Seasonal Difference in the Occurrence of Exercise-Induced Bronchospasm in Asthmatics: Dependence on Humidity
Authors: Koh Youngil I. , Choi Inseon S.
Published: April 2003

Background: Most studies on the effects of temperature and humidity on exercise-induced bronchospasm (EIB) in asthmatics have been carried out under indoor conditions. However, any asthmatic patient is exposed to varying climatic conditions. Objective: To investigate whether temperature or relative humidity plays a more important role in determining the degree of EIB in asthmatics under naturally exposed climate conditions. Methods: To exclude the effects of pollen on EIB, we enrolled 69 subjects with perennial asthma (mean ± SD: 20.1 ± 1.5 years). The subjects performed outdoor free running tests. They were divided into winter (n = 25), spring/autumn (n = 22), and summer (n = 22) groups according to the season when they performed the tests. Initial spirometry and skin prick tests were performed. Methacholine bronchial challenge testing and, one day later, the free running tests were done. Results: There were significant differences in temperature and relative humidity among the three groups: However, the relative humidity in winter did not differ from that in spring/autumn. There were no differences in pulmonary functions, airway responsiveness, and atopy score among the three groups. The percentage of cases of positive EIB – fall in forced expiratory volume in 1s FEV1 of >15% from baseline – in winter (84%, p < 0.05) or spring/autumn (86.4%, p < 0.05) was higher than that in summer (50%). However, the percentage of subjects with a positive EIB in winter did not differ from that in spring/autumn. The maximal percent fall in FEV1 after exercise in winter did not differ from that in spring/autumn. Conclusions: The occurrence of EIB is associated with environmental temperature and humidity. Under such climatic conditions as in Korea, relative humidity may be a more important factor than temperature in contributing to EIB in patients with perennial asthma.
Expression of Human Beta Defensin (HBD-1 and HBD-2) mRNA in Nasal Epithelia of Adult Cystic Fibrosis Patients, Healthy Individuals, and Individuals with Acute Cold
Authors: Dauletbaev Nurlan , Gropp Roswitha , Frye Michaela , Loitsch Stefan , Wagner Thomas-Otto-Friedrich , Bargon Joachim
Published: April 2003

Background: Lack or inactivation of defensins may facilitate chronic bacterial colonization in the cystic fibrosis (CF) lung. CF nasal epithelium exhibits typical biochemical abnormalities and can be used to study defensin expression in CF. Objectives: To evaluate the expression of beta defensin (HBD-1 and HBD-2) mRNA and the presence of inflammatory markers (percentage of neutrophils and IL-8 mRNA expression) in CF and non-CF nasal mucosa. Methods: Case-control study. Nasal brushing samples were obtained from 22 stable adult CF patients and 32 non-CF controls (25 healthy individuals and 7 individuals with acute cold). Samples were subjected to analysis involving mRNA expression (semiquantitative RT-PCR) and differential cell counting. Results: Defensins and inflammatory markers were expressed at low levels in healthy individuals and at high levels in subjects with acute cold. In non-CF controls, defensin expression correlated significantly with inflammatory parameters (p < 0.001). In CF, defensin mRNA expression was comparable to healthy individuals (p = 0.2). In contrast to non-CF controls, in CF patients high levels of inflammatory markers did not correlate with defensin mRNA levels. Conclusions: Defensin expression is not upregulated in CF epithelium in response to inflammatory stimuli. Further studies are necessary to elucidate whether this is a consequence of the CF gene mutation.
Thoracoscopic Electrode Implantation for Diaphragm Pacing in Dogs
Authors: Shoji Tsuyoshi , Oku Yoshitaka , Ishikawa Shinya , Wada Hiromi
Published: April 2003

Background: Diaphragm pacing is an attractive method of ventilatory support; however, it requires electrode implantation to the phrenic nerve or diaphragm. The thoracic approach is favored for several reasons, and it usually accompanies invasive bilateral thoracotomy. Objectives: This study was conducted to develop a new electrode suitable for video-assisted thoracoscopic implantation, which is less invasive than the conventional thoracic approach. Methods: The feasibility of video-assisted thoracoscopic implantation was tested with newly designed electrodes using 5 mongrel dogs. Furthermore, diaphragm pacing was performed for 60 min to test whether or not the implanted electrodes were functional. Results: Video-assisted electrode implantation was successful in all 5 cases. No complications occurred during the implantation procedure. In acute-phase pacing trials, the electrodes stimulated the phrenic nerves for 60 min without any pacing failures. The mean value of PaCO2 increased gradually from 32.2 ± (SEM) 1.52 to 54.6 ± 4.58 mm Hg, and the value of tidal volume decreased gradually from 242.9 ± 31.3 to 147.5 ± 24.5 ml in 60 min pacing. Conclusions: The thoracoscopic implantation of new electrodes was less invasive, and was a safe procedure for diaphragm pacing. Meticulous care should be taken to avoid muscle fatigue.
Physiological Changes in Skin Barrier Function in Relation to Occlusion Level, Exposure Time and Climatic Conditions
Authors: Schäfer P. , Bewick-Sonntag C. , Capri M.G. , Berardesca E.
Published: April 2003

Skin occlusion is a condition encountered with various articles as part of everyday life and resulting changes in skin barrier physiology often remain unnoticed. In the present study we aimed to understand the impact of absorbent feminine hygiene articles, one vapor-permeable and one vapor-impermeable, on skin hydration in response to exposure time and different environmental climatic conditions. Using a forearm model, volunteers were patched with moistened vapor-permeable and -impermeable articles in parallel for 1, 3, and 6 h and under different climatic conditions (i.e. 20°C/30% relative humidity, 25°C/50% relative humidity, 30°C/ 75% relative humidity). The physiological changes in the skin barrier function were measured via skin hydration, evaporation of superficial water (skin surface water loss, SSWL) and relative humidity in the microclimate between skin and occlusive article (RHmc). The results show that skin hydration, SSWL, and RHmc under a vapor-permeable article are reduced versus the vapor-impermeable article for all exposure times at 25°C and 50% relative humidity. SSWL and RHmc decrease from their 1-hour peak values with increasing exposure time, while skin hydration decreases only after 3 h of exposure. Lower environmental temperature (20°C) and lower relative humidity (30%) have little impact on the reduction of SSWL and RHmc, but more so on the reduction of skin hydration. Higher temperature (30°C) and higher relative humidity (75%) increase RHmc and skin hydration under both vapor-permeable and -impermeable articles while SSWL is reduced under the vapor-impermeable article under these conditions. In conclusion, vapor-permeability is the key factor for physiological changes in the barrier function of the skin under occlusion, exposure time and climatic conditions being modulating factors. These findings have been integrated into a model of skin hydration under occlusion in the context of absorbent hygiene articles. While current vapor-impermeable articles are effective in reducing the excessive moisture on the skin due to bodily discharge, vapor permeability adds a further measurable benefit in reducing skin overhydration.
The Therapeutic Effect of Evening Primrose Oil in Atopic Dermatitis Patients with Dry Scaly Skin Lesions Is Associated with the Normalization of Serum Gamma-Interferon Levels
Authors: Yoon Sungpil , Lee Jooheung , Lee Seungchul
Published: April 2003

To see if evening primrose oil (EPO) could be more effective in a certain type of atopic dermatitis, we administered EPO to 14 atopic dermatitis patients characterized by itchy dry scaly skin. Furthermore, we measured serum levels of γ-interferon (IFN-γ) and IgE in addition to the clinical severity before and after the treatment to find out whether the treatment effect of EPO is related with an immunological mechanism. After the treatment, the extent of the skin lesions and the pruritus were markedly reduced in all patients. While serum IFN-γ levels were significantly increased (p < 0.01) after the treatment up to those of the normal control group, serum IgE levels showed a significant decrease (p < 0.05), failing to normalize completely. We concluded that EPO could be highly effective in the treatment of a grossly noninflammatory type of atopic dermatitis. The restoration of serum IFN-γ levels indicates that EPO might exert its effect through the modulation of the immunological mechanism involving IFN-γ.
The Cytoprotective Effects of Exogenous DNA Fragments
Authors: Mammone Thomas , Ingrassia Michael , Gan David , Marenus Ken , Maes Daniel
Published: April 2003

Ultraviolet irradiation of normal human keratinocytes induces a cytotoxic effect. The chromophore for this effect is believed to be genomic DNA. However, DNA damage is known to be repaired in UVB irradiated keratinocytes. The trigger for this DNA repair is potentially damaged DNA itself. To test the hypothesis that damaged DNA can induce the host cell’s own DNA repair mechanism, we treated the keratinocytes with the damaged DNA and evaluated its cytoprotective effects. We have observed that fragmented calf thymus DNA irradiated and damaged with a UVC light can induce a protective effect in cultured human keratinocytes. Keratinocytes treated with UVC damaged DNA fragments are less susceptible to UVB irradiation-induced cell death as measured by neutral red uptake. Unirradiated exogenous DNA did not induce this protective effect. Similar protective effects can be seen with irradiated salmon sperm DNA. UVC damaged DNA fragments induced 60% increase in protection in human HaCaT keratinocyte in culture to the cell death induced by UVB. Similar protection was observed with UVC irradiated oligothymidylic acid (dT3-dT5) which increased the survival of human HaCaT keratinocytes after UVB irradiated by 50%. Isolated mononucleotides, irradiated or not, do not increase UVB survivability. Cellular DNA synthesis was greatly inhibited by UVB, becoming undetectable at 40 mJ/cm2. Exogenous treatment with damaged fragments causes immediate and significant inhibition of total cellular DNA synthesis. This inhibition was dose dependent. Cells that undergo damage to their DNA are known to inhibit endogenous DNA synthesis via p53 suppressor gene activation. This is believed to allow them sufficient time to repair the host DNA. The cellular response to exogenous damaged DNA may be a similar mechanism.
Lymecycline and Minocycline in Inflammatory Acne
Authors: Piérard-Franchimont Claudine , Goffin Véronique , Arrese Jorge E. , Martalo Oriane , Braham Catherine , Slachmuylders Patricia , Piérard Gérald E.
Published: April 2003

Background: Some antibiotics represent a mainstay in acne treatment. However, studies comparing their efficacies are rare. Aim: To evaluate the clinical and in vivo antibacterial effect of lymecycline and minocycline at different dosages. Method: Eighty-six patients with moderate to severe acne were enrolled in a randomized, double-blind, intent-to-treat study comparing in three parallel groups the effect of (1) lymecycline 300 mg daily for 12 weeks, (2) minocycline 50 mg daily for 12 weeks and (3) minocycline 100 mg daily for 4 weeks followed by 50 mg daily for 8 weeks. Evaluations were made at the screening visit and at five on-treatment visits. They consisted of clinical counts of acne lesions and evaluations of bacterial viability using dual flow cytometry performed on microorganisms collected from sebaceous infundibula by cyanoacrylate strippings. Results: Patients receiving minocycline 100/50 mg had the best clinical outcome, particularly in the reduction of the number of papules. By the end of the trial, the microbial response to minocycline 100/ 50 mg was also superior to either of the other two treatments. There were less live and more dead bacteria. Conclusion: In this trial, minocycline 100/50 mg was superior for the treatment of inflammatory acne when compared to lymecycline 300 mg and minocycline 50 mg.
Termination of Pregnancy and Women’s Sexuality
Authors: Bianchi-Demicheli Francesco , Perrin Eliane , Lüdicke Frank , Bianchi Patrizia Grace , Chatton Dominique , Campana Aldo
Published: April 2003

Objective: To determine the influence of termination of pregnancy (TOP) on women’s sexuality. Design: Prospective qualitative and quantitative study. Subjects: 103 women undergoing induced abortion by vacuum aspiration, interviewed 1–3 weeks before surgery and 6 months later. Results: After TOP, patients described symptoms of fatigue (39%), feelings of guilt (35%), sadness (34%) and anxiety (29%). Thirty-one percent of women presented at least one sexual dysfunction, 18% a decrease in sexual desire, 17% orgasmic disorders, 12% vaginal dryness and 11% dyspareunia. These sexual dysfunctions were correlated with anxiety and symptoms of depression following TOP. Six months after TOP, 57% of the women reported no change in their sexual satisfaction, 17% were ‘more satisfied’ and 7% ‘less satisfied’. Lessening of sexual satisfaction after TOP was correlated with diminished partner satisfaction (p < 0.00001), fatigue (p < 0.0009), feelings of guilt (p < 0.01), low frequency of sexual relations (p < 0.01) and anxiety over sexual relations (p < 0.02). Conclusions: Six months after TOP some women presented persisting sexual dysfunction. This sexual dysfunction may be explained essentially by the appearance of symptoms of anxiety and depression following TOP. When the quality of the relationship was satisfying, women could cope more easily with the appearance of a sexual dysfunction.
Complete Removal of Endometriosis Improves Fecundity
Authors: Suginami Hiroshi , Tokushige Makoto , Taniguchi Fumiaki , Kitaoka Yuki
Published: April 2003

Endometriosis is one of the causative factors of impaired fecundity. Whatever the mechanisms are of this impairment, surgical removal of endometriosis appears to increase postoperative fecundity. Our strategy in laparoscopic surgery for symptomatic endometriosis is to completely remove endometriosis. However, despite this strategy, laparoscopic surgery nonetheless creates two categories of patients; complete and incomplete surgery groups. We found by comparing the two groups that both were comparable in terms of fecundity during the early postoperative phase, whereas unlike the complete surgery group, fecundity in the incomplete surgery group stayed low during the late postoperative phase. Deep rectal endometriosis and deeply invading pelvic endometriosis are conditions wherein complete removal of endometriosis is difficult. We have developed laparoscopic surgeries for these conditions: laparoscopic anterior rectum slicing (LARS) and laparoscopic pelvic wall slicing (LPWS) operations, respectively. Both operations are effective in alleviating disease-related symptoms with minimal surgical invasiveness.
Glycosyl-Phosphatidylinositol (GPI)-Anchored Renal Dipeptidase Is Released by a Phospholipase C in vivo
Authors: Park Sung Wook , Choi Kyong , Lee Hwanghee Blaise , Park Sung Kwang , Turner Anthony J. , Hooper Nigel M. , Park Haeng Soon
Published: April 2003

The release mechanism of the glycosyl-phosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchored renal dipeptidase (EC 3.4.13.19) in vivo has been investigated. Triton X-114 phase separation indicated that the dipeptidase is exclusively present as a hydrophilic form in urine from porcine, rat, rabbit and human. Western blot analysis of human and porcine purified dipeptidase and the urine concentrates with anti-(cross-reacting determinant) serum demonstrated the presence of inositol 1,2-cyclic monophosphate indicating that the renal dipeptidase had been released from the membrane by the action of a phospholipase C. This is the first direct evidence for cleavage of a human GPI-anchored protein by a responsible phospholipase C in vivo.
Changes in Renal and Systemic Hemodynamics after NO-Synthase Inhibition in Males with Family History of Hypertension
Authors: Berger Elke D. , Bader Birgit D. , Rüb Norman , Rauscher Matthias A.S. , Rebenschütz Ingo , Gaber Oliver C. , Enderle Markus D. , Risler Teut , Erley Christiane M.
Published: April 2003

Background: Nitric oxide (NO) plays an important role in the regulation of blood pressure and renal hemodynamics. Methods: To further investigate the role of NO in human hypertension, we studied the effect of systemic injection of NG-monomethyl-L-arginine (L-NMMA) on renal hemodynamics, urinary sodium excretion (FENa), systemic hemodynamics and several vasoactive hormones in 5 healthy male subjects with (group H) and without (group N) family history of hypertension. An intravenous infusion of L-NMMA (3 mg/kg over 10 min) or placebo was given in a randomized, double-blinded manner. GFR and ERPF were measured by inulin- and PAH-clearances. Norepinephrine infusion (0.1 µg/kg/min over 60 min) served as vasoconstrictive control infusion. Results: L-NMMA induced a significant decrease in ERPF (–135 ± 49 vs. 7 ± 31 ml/min/1.73 m2 with placebo, p < 0.05), a decrease in FENa (–1.2 ± 0.6% with L-NMMA vs. 0.0 ± 0.1% with placebo), and a significant increase in diastolic blood pressure (+7 ± 1 vs. –2 ± 1 mm Hg with placebo) in group N, only. A sustained drop in plasma renin activity (–0.1 ± 0.1 vs. 0.3 ± 0.1 ng/ml/h with placebo) could also be seen in this group, only. Subjects with family history of hypertension showed minor or even no response (changes in diastolic blood pressure: L-NMMA: 5 ± 3 mm Hg, placebo: 0 ± 2 mm Hg; changes in ERPF: L-NMMA: –89 ± 57 ml/min/1.73 m2, placebo: –34 ± 28 ml/min/1.73 m2; changes in plasma renin activity: L-NMMA: –0.0 ± 0.3 ng/ml/h, placebo: –0.1 ± 0.2 ng/ml/h). The vasoconstrictive effect of norepinephrine infusion did not differ between both groups. Conclusion: Our data indicate that systemic NO synthetase inhibition by L-NMMA results in a blunted effect on systemic blood pressure and the renal hemodynamic system in subjects with family history of hypertension.
Motivation for Treatment in Substance-Dependent Patients
Authors: de Weert-Van Oene Gerdien H. , Schippers Gerard M. , de Jong Cor A.J. , Schrijvers Guus (A.) J.P.
Published: April 2003

The objective of this paper is to analyze the psychometric properties of the TCU Motivation for Treatment (MfT) scale in alcohol- and drug-dependent patients in an inpatient treatment facility in the Netherlands, to see whether it is useful in European populations as well. In the study, 279 consecutive patients were enrolled: 132 drug and 147 alcohol dependents. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis revealed 4 subscales: recognition of general problems (4 items), recognition of specific problems (5), desire for help (5) and treatment readiness (8). The results of the analyses showed that the MfT scale is a valid instrument for measuring treatment motivation, both in drug- and in alcohol-dependent patients. We demonstrated evidence for consistency of the scale through cultural barriers, in different populations and in different treatment settings.
Eotaxin-1-Deficient Mice Develop Airway Eosinophilia and Airway Hyperresponsiveness
Authors: Tomkinson A. , Duez C. , Cieslewicz G. , Gelfand E.W.
Published: April 2003

Background: The accumulation of eosinophils in the lung is a hallmark of asthma. In addition to cytokines such as IL-5 which are essential, chemokines have been implicated in the recruitment of eosinophils to the airway. In particular, eotaxin has been shown to be a selective and potent eosinophil chemoattractant, important in the pathogenesis of allergic disease. The goal of the present study was to define the role of eotaxin-1 in the development of allergen-induced eosinophilic airway inflammation and airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) to inhaled methacholine (MCh). Methods: Eotaxin-1-deficient mice were sensitized and exposed to a single challenge with allergen. Airway function and airway and tissue as well as peripheral blood and bone marrow eosinophilia were examined 18 and 48 h after the last challenge. Results: Following allergen sensitization and challenge, eotaxin-1-deficient mice developed levels of AHR to inhaled MCh at 18 and 48 h comparable to controls. Further, levels of bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) and tissue eosinophilia at the same time points were comparable in the two strains of mice. Tissue eosinophilia, assessed by quantitating major basic protein staining cells, preceded BAL eosinophilia in a similar manner. Bone marrow and peripheral blood eosinophilia were unimpaired in deficient mice. Conclusion: The results demonstrate that the major eotaxin, eotaxin-1 is not essential for the development of airway eosinophilia or AHR, implying that other chemokines, alone or in combination, can overcome this deficiency.