bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Matrix Metalloproteinase (MMP)‐2 and MMP‐9 Activity in the Canine Uterus Before and During Placentation
Authors: Beceriklisoy HB , Walter I , Schäfer‐Somi S , Miller I , Kanca H , İzgür H , Aslan S
Published: July 2007

Contents

The aim of the present study was to demonstrate the presence and localization of MMP‐2 and ‐9 by means of RT‐PCR and immunohistochemistry (IHC) within the canine uterus from the pre‐implantation stage until mid‐gestation and to determine MMP‐2 and ‐9 activities by means of zymography. For this purpose, samples of the uterus and salpinx from bitches were obtained after ovariohysterectomy. Pre‐implantation stages (5–12 days after mating, n = 11) were determined by verifying embryos after flushing the uterus. Further groups were determined as implantation (15–19 days after mating, n = 9), post‐implantation (20–30 days after mating, n = 9) and placental stages (30–45 days after mating, n = 3). A non‐pregnant group (17–30 days after mating, n = 4) served as control. MMP‐2 and ‐9 positive cells were detected in all specimens from pregnant and nonpregnant bitches, however, with different distributions. MMP‐2 was present in endothelium and smooth muscles of blood vessels and the myometrium of pregnant and nonpregnant bitches, additionally in the surface epithelium of the oviduct. The latter also stained positive for MMP‐9. During placentation, MMP‐2 was detected mainly in fetal blood vessels and trophoblastic cells. Higher MMP‐2 activity was observed in the endometrium and myometrium of all pregnant groups compared with the nonpregnant group (p < 0.05). The pregnant groups did not differ significantly from each other (p > 0.05). MMP‐9 was present in blood vessels, smooth muscle cells and epithelia, such as maternal surface epithelial cells, uterine crypts and glands. During placentation, the deep uterine glands and the epithelium of the glandular chambers were immunoreactive to MMP‐9. Highest MMP‐9 activities were reached in the endometrium of the pre‐implantation group (23.2% of total MMP‐9) and placental parts (33.3%).
Preovulatory Follicle Development in Goats Following Oestrous Synchronization with Progestagens or Prostaglandins
Authors: Fernandez‐Moro D , Veiga‐Lopez A , Ariznavarreta C , Tresguerres JAF , Encinas T , Gonzalez‐Bulnes A
Published: July 2007

Contents

The study reports on differences in the dynamics of growth and functionality of preovulatory follicles in response to oestrous synchronization, either by the administration of two doses of prostaglandin or by an intravaginal progestagen sponge, in goats. The progestagen‐treated group (n = 8) showed more follicles of preovulatory size (≥5.5 mm) than the cloprostenol group (n = 8) during the follicular phase (4.5 ± 0.6 vs 1.9 ± 0.2, p < 0.01). The diameters of the largest follicles (LF1, LF2 and LF3) were also larger in the progestagen group (LF1, 7.8 ± 0.3 vs 7.0 ± 0.2 mm, p < 0.05; LF2, 6.7 ± 0.2 vs 5.6 ± 0.2 mm, p < 0.01; LF3, 5.5 ± 0.3 vs 4.2 ± 0.2 mm, p < 0.01). The study of the preovulatory follicles showed that 27.2% (3/11) of the follicles were in the static phase in the cloprostenol group, whilst 71.4% (10/14) were static in progestagen group (p < 0.05). Higher plasma oestradiol levels were recorded in the progestagen‐treated goats during the 48 h prior to cloprostenol injection or progestagen withdrawal (4.2 ± 0.4 vs 3.0 ± 0.2 pg/ml, p < 0.05). In conclusion, goats with oestrus synchronized by progestagen showed a higher number of preovulatory‐sized follicles, but a decreased oestradiol secretion when compared with does with oestrus synchronized by using prostaglandin analogues. These would support the development of alternative protocols for assisted reproduction.
Identification of RSVP14 and RSVP20 Components by Two‐dimensional Electrophoresis and Western‐blotting
Authors: Cardozo JA , Fernández‐Juan M , Cebrián‐Pérez JA , Muiño‐Blanco T
Published: July 2007

Contents

We have already shown that RSVP14 and RSVP20, two ram seminal plasma (SP) proteins postulated to be involved in sperm capacitation and gamete interaction can protect spermatozoa against cold‐shock. In this study, we use two‐dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (2D‐PAGE) for the analysis of SP proteins of Rasa Aragonesa rams, using enhanced protein solubilization in the presence of tributyl phosphine (TBP) and a polyacrylamide linear gradient gel with a narrow pH range (4–7). The image analysis of the 2D map detected 195 protein spots, with isoelectric points (pIs) ranging from 4.5 to 6.6, and molecular weight (Mr) from 11.7 to 90.4. Staining of 2D gels with Pro‐Q Emerald 300 Glycoprotein Stain revealed that most significant proteins in ram SP are glycosylated. The removing of protein N‐linked oligosaccharides improved the gel resolution. 2D‐PAGE analysis of the whole fraction 6 (F6) separated from ram SP by exclusion chromatography showed six main protein spots, four (a,b,c,d) in the 14 kDa and two (e,f) in the 20 kDa region. Western‐blot analyses indicated that the anti‐P14 antibody recognized four spots on the SP map, 4, 5, 6 and 7, that matched with spotsa,b,c,dof F6 map. The anti‐P20 antibody recognized spots 13 and 14 of SP map that corresponded to spotse,fof F6 map. The deduced sequences byde novosequencing evidenced that protein spots 7 and 13 have significant similarities to BSP family, while protein spots 4 and 14 did not appear to be homologous with any reported protein in the current mammalian Proteinbank databases.
ROLES OF α1A‐ AND α1B‐ADRENOCEPTORS IN HEART: INSIGHTS FROM STUDIES OF GENETICALLY MODIFIED MICE
Authors: Woodcock Elizabeth A
Published: July 2007

Several mouse strains have been prepared in which different subtypes of the α1‐adrenoceptor (AR) are overexpressed or deleted. The phenotypes of the animals generated vary depending on whether the receptors are expressed specifically in heart or generally throughout the animal, but some overall conclusions can be drawn.

Heightened activity of α1B‐AR by overexpressing the receptors leads to depressed contractile responses to β‐AR activation, which may be related to activation of the inhibitory G‐protein Gi. In contrast, α1A‐AR cause substantially heightened contractility when overexpressed in heart.

Overexpressed α1B‐AR predispose hearts to hypertrophy and worsen heart failure caused by pressure overload, whereas increased α1A‐AR expression does not influence hypertrophic responses and, furthermore, improves outcomes after pressure overload or myocardial infarction.

α1A‐Adrenoceptors mediate a preconditioning action to improve functional recovery after acute ischaemic insult, whereas α1B‐AR are ineffective. Both subtypes appear to protect from inositol 1,4,5‐trisphosphate generation and arrhythmogenesis in early postischaemic reperfusion.

Although some of the protective effects of heightened α1A‐AR drive may be related to the enhanced contractility, it is also possible that α1A‐AR protect from cardiomyocyte apoptotic responses.
Effects and probable mechanisms of electroacupuncture at the Zusanli point on upper gastrointestinal motility in rabbits
Authors: Niu Wei‐Xin , He Guo‐Dong , Liu Han , Qin Xin‐Yu
Published: July 2007

Background and Aim:  The purposes of this study were to investigate the regulative effect of acupuncture on gastrointestinal motility in rabbits and to explore the probable mechanism of electroacupuncture.

Methods:  The experiment was performed on 30 rabbits implanted with three pairs of electrodes, which were equally divided into three groups: the control group, the Zusanli group, and the non‐acupuncture point group. The gastrointestinal myoelectrical activity of each conscious rabbit was recorded when acupuncture was applied. Motilin in plasma, cholecystokinin (CCK) in serum, the activity of acetylcholine esterase, nitric oxide synthase (NOS), and the vesicle of nerve endings in the stomach tissue and jejunum were investigated.

Results:  It was found that electroacupuncture did not exert much influence on the slow wave of gastrointestinal myoelectrical activity, but significantly increased the number and amplitude of spikes. In the Zusanli group, the concentration of motilin and CCK was much higher at the post‐acupuncture stage than at the pre‐acupuncture stage. Electroacupuncture significantly enhanced the activity of acetylcholine esterase. Moreover, we found out that in the Zusanli group, the number of vesicles without granula was significantly fewer than in the control group. The activity of NOS was less in the Zusanli group than in the control group.

Conclusions:  Acupuncture may enhance the gastrointestinal myoelectrical activity of conscious rabbits. The cholinergic nerve, nitric oxide, motilin, and CCK may contribute to acupuncture mechanisms.
High‐frequency ultrasound imaging of the duodenum and colon in patients with symptomatic giardiasis in comparison to amebiasis and healthy subjects
Authors: Njemanze Philip C , Njemanze Josephine , Skelton Alana , Akudo Anoka , Akagha Onyinyechi , Chukwu Adaeze A , Peters Constance , Maduka Ozioma
Published: July 2007

Aim:  The application of ultrasound may be suitable for evaluating the effects of intestinal cytoskeletal rearrangement of the duodenum and colon as a result of exposure to live Giardia lamblia trophozoites. We studied the sonographic appearance of the duodenum and colon in giardiasis compared with amebiasis and healthy subjects.

Methods:  Sonographic images obtained from 100 consecutive patients with symptomatic giardiasis were compared to those taken from 40 patients with amebiasis and 40 healthy subjects. B‐mode ultrasound examination of the duodenum and colon was performed using a 7.5 MHz annular array transducer. Gray scale images with water contrast were acquired.

Results:  Normal duodenum and colon echoanatomy were demonstrated. Giardial lesions of the duodenum and colon were associated with increased wall thickness when compared with healthy subjects (P < 0.05). Furthermore, giardial lesions were characterized by increased wall echogenicity, flattening or loss of duodenal folds and/or colonic haustration, hyperechoic floating foci (HFF) demonstrating chaotic motility, increased peri‐lesional tissue echogenicity, and altered colonic peristalsis. In amebiasis, focal hyperechoic wall thickening was seen at lesion sites identified as amebomas with increased wall echogenicity, but otherwise normal duodenal folds and colonic haustration. There were no HFF with chaotic motility, rather intestinal contents showed bulk motility in patients with amebiasis. There was no focal colonic wall motion abnormality observed.

Conclusion:  B‐mode imaging with water contrast demonstrated details of duodenal and colonic echoanatomy. There were sonographic features of giardial lesions of the duodenum and colon that were distinct from those in amebiasis and healthy subjects.
Association of cytokine gene polymorphisms and liver fibrosis in chronic hepatitis B
Authors: Chan Henry L‐Y , Tse Ada M‐L , Chim Angel M‐L , Wong Vincent W‐S , Choi Paul C‐L , Yu Jun , Zhang Mingdong , Sung Joseph J‐Y
Published: July 2007

Background and Aim:  As liver fibrosis is the result of persistent necroinflammation in the liver, pro‐inflammatory cytokines secreted in response to cell injury have a central role in the pathogenesis of liver fibrosis. We aimed to investigate the association of cytokine gene polymorphism and liver fibrosis among Chinese patients with chronic hepatitis B.

Methods:  Polymorphisms at interleukin‐10 (IL‐10‐627, ‐1117), interleukin‐1‐beta (IL‐1β‐511, ‐31, ‐3964), interleukin‐1 receptor antagonist (IL‐1RN), and tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α‐308, ‐238) among Chinese chronic hepatitis B patients were determined. Severe liver fibrosis was defined as Ishak fibrosis score = 4 (of 6).

Results:  Fifty‐nine of 273 (22%) patients had severe fibrosis. The distribution of genotypes for IL‐10‐627 was CC (11%), CA (41%), and AA (48%). The CC genotype at IL‐10‐627 was protective against severe fibrosis (odds ratio (OR) 0.11; 95% CI 0.014–0.82; P = 0.032). After adjusted for baseline variables, the adjusted OR of CC genotypes at IL‐10‐627 for severe fibrosis was 0.063 (95% CI 0.06–0.64; P = 0.063). Other gene polymorphisms at IL‐1β, IL‐1RN, TNF‐α, and IL‐10 had no significant association with severe fibrosis. Weak linkage disequilibrium was observed between IL‐10‐627 and IL‐10‐1117 with linkage disequilibrium coefficient of 0.12 (P < 0.001). The distribution of haplotypes of IL‐10‐1117 and IL‐10‐627 was A‐A (69%), A‐C (26%), and G‐C (5%). High and intermediate IL‐10 production (A‐C and G‐C) haplotypes were protective against severe fibrosis (OR 0.62; 95% CI 0.39–0.99; P = 0.046).

Conclusions:  High production genotype and haplotypes of IL‐10 were associated with less severe liver fibrosis in chronic hepatitis B in Chinese.
Changes in circulating thrombomodulin levels with exercise in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: KANAZAWA Hiroshi , ASAI Kazuhisa , NOMURA Saeko
Published: July 2007

Background and objectives:  The functional properties of endothelial cells in pulmonary microvessels are affected by elevations in the level of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in inflamed airways. An increase in the level of circulating thrombomodulin (TM), a molecular marker of endothelial cells, with exercise is associated with the VEGF level in asthmatic airways. This study investigated whether the airway VEGF level reflects changes in circulating TM levels with exercise in patients with COPD.

Methods:  VEGF levels in induced sputum were measured in 26 COPD patients (12 chronic bronchitis and 14 emphysema) and 11 control subjects. Incremental exercise testing was performed, and TM levels in arterial blood samples were measured pre‐exercise and post‐exercise at 0, 5 and 60 min.

Results:  VEGF levels were significantly lower in patients with emphysema (520 ± 290 pg/mL) than in control subjects (1860 ± 1220 pg/mL), and were significantly higher in patients with bronchitis (4110 ± 1190 pg/mL). Pre‐exercise TM levels were comparable among the three study groups. TM levels in control subjects and emphysema patients did not change after exercise. However, maximum TM levels after exercise were significantly increased in chronic bronchitis patients (P = 0.02). The increase in TM level with exercise closely correlated with the VEGF level in bronchitis patients (r = 0.90, P = 0.003).

Conclusions:  In chronic bronchitis, but not in emphysema, patients exercise induced an increase in circulating TM levels. The potential causal relationship between circulating levels of TM and those of VEGF in the airways deserve further exploration.
Thirty‐count breathlessness score: Reliability, sensitivity, specificity and validity
Authors: WILLIAMS Marie , SORICH Marissa , CAFARELLA Paul , PETKOV John
Published: July 2007

Background and objectives:  The fifteen‐count breathlessness score (15CBS) has been reported to quantify breathlessness; however, a ceiling effect limits its ability to discriminate between subjects with varying degrees of breathlessness. The aim of this study was to determine the reliability, sensitivity, specificity and validity of the thirty‐count breathlessness score (30CBS) in adults with COPD.

Methods:  Using an observational correlation design, subjects with clinical signs and symptoms of COPD were videotaped performing the 30CBS on two occasions. Respiratory related quality of life questionnaires, self‐report shortness breathlessness measures and pulmonary function tests were completed by all subjects. Asymptomatic subjects of a similar age completed the 30CBS for comparison.

Results:  Thirty‐eight COPD subjects and 24 control subjects completed the protocol. The 30CBS was reliable within and between assessors (intraclass correlation coefficients >0.7). The 30CBS demonstrated a higher sensitivity (55.8% sensitivity, 82.3% specificity) than the 15CBS (33.2% sensitivity, 93.2% specificity); however, the sensitivity of the 30CBS was still not great enough to discriminate between those with and without COPD. Regression analysis calculated significant relationships between the 30CBS and a majority of measures of pulmonary impairment (flows and volumes), age, height, Visual Analogue Scale for breathlessness and physical aspects of the Short Form‐36.

Conclusions:  While reliable, the 30CBS did not display sufficient discriminative ability to predict subjects with COPD though subjects requiring greater than two breaths may warrant further investigation. The 30CBS may be a useful indicator of physiological impairment, but was not significantly correlated with measures of breathlessness.
Surgical strategy for non‐small cell lung cancer in octogenarians
Authors: IKEDA Norihiko , HAYASHI Aeru , IWASAKI Kentaro , KAJIWARA Naohiro , UCHIDA Osamu , KATO Harubumi
Published: July 2007

Background and objectives:  This study was conducted to determine the optimal surgical strategy for octogenarians with non‐small cell lung cancer.

Methods:  An observational study of 73 patients aged 80 years and over who underwent surgery for non‐small cell lung cancer. Postoperative survival, mortality and morbidity were analysed.

Results:  The age of the patients ranged from 80 to 89 with a mean of 83. Cancer types included adenocarcinoma (n = 46), squamous cell carcinoma (n = 22) and large cell carcinoma (n = 5). Lobectomy was performed in 47 patients and limited surgery in 26. The 5‐year survival rate was 57.4% in pathological stage I, 88.9% in stage II and 18.2% in stage III, respectively. The 5‐year survival rate of patients with stage I disease treated by limited resection (58.8%) was similar to that of patients treated by lobectomy (54.9%). Limited resection for stage IA showed slightly better survival than lobectomy (69.4% vs 48.2%, P = 0.10), however, lobectomy was superior to limited resection for stage IB (63.2% vs 16.7%, P = 0.07). Postoperative complications occurred in 27 patients (37%) and nine patients (12%) had multiple complications. There were three postoperative deaths (4.1%).

Conclusion:  The early detection of the disease, hopefully in stage IA enables surgical treatment by limited resection of patients aged 80 years and over. A favourable prognosis as well as low morbidity can be anticipated in such cases.
Prolongation of neutrophil survival by the culture supernatant of Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: NISHIMAKI Katsushi , OKUYAMA Kaori , OKADA Shinji , HATTORI Toshio , TAKAYANAGI Motoaki , OHNO Isao
Published: July 2007

Background and objectives:  The pathogenesis of airway inflammation in diffuse panbronchiolitis (DPB) is unknown. Neutrophil survival‐enhancing activity, partially mediated by granulocyte‐macrophage colony‐stimulating factor (GM‐CSF), has been shown in the sputum from DPB patients. This study investigated the mechanisms of GM‐CSF expression in the airways of DPB patients. This involved examining the effects of mucoid Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains derived from chronically colonized patients with DPB on neutrophil survival and GM‐CSF expression.

Methods:  Neutrophils from healthy subjects were cultured with the culture supernatants of P. aeruginosa isolated from sputum of DPB patients in the presence or absence of anti‐GM‐CSF and anti‐GM‐CSF receptor (α chain) antibodies, and viable neutrophils were counted daily. GM‐CSF gene expression in neutrophils was evaluated by RT‐PCR.

Results:  Neutrophils cultured with the culture supernatants showed significantly prolonged survival, compared with neutrophils cultured with the control broth. The neutrophil survival‐enhancing activity in the culture supernatants was lost by heating. The enhanced survival of neutrophils was abolished in the presence of anti‐GM‐CSF and anti‐GM‐CSF receptor (α chain) antibodies. GM‐CSF mRNA was detected in neutrophils cultured with the bacterial supernatants, but not in those with the control broth.

Conclusion:  P. aeruginosa‐derived factors (rich in proteins) stimulated neutrophils to synthesize GM‐CSF, which enhanced neutrophil survival in an autocrine/paracrine fashion.
Acute effects of vecuronium on pulmonary function and hypoxemic episodes in preterm infants
Authors: McEVOY CINDY , SARDESAI SMEETA , SCHILLING DIANE , DURAND MANUEL
Published: July 2007

Background: Varying effects of pancuronium on neonatal pulmonary mechanics have been documented, including a decrease in pulmonary compliance or no significant change in compliance; but measurements of respiratory mechanics or quantification of episodes of hypoxemia in preterm newborns receiving vecuronium (Norcuron, Bedford Labs, Bedford, OH, USA) have not been reported. The objective of the present study was to quantify the short‐term effects of vecuronium on pulmonary mechanics and episodes of hypoxemia in preterm infants receiving mechanical ventilation.

Methods: A total of 15 preterm infants (birthweight 610–1560 g, gestational age 25–32 weeks, postnatal age 0.2–22 days) was studied. The initial dose of vecuronium used for the study was 0.2 mg/kg i.v. Measurements of respiratory mechanics were obtained 1 h prior to and 1 h after the initial dose of vecuronium at comparable ventilator settings and fractional inspired oxygen concentration (FiO2). Dynamic respiratory compliance and respiratory resistance were calculated by two‐factor least mean square analysis. Pulse oximeter oxygen saturation (SpO2) was measured during both 1 h intervals with the Nellcor N‐200 oximeter, a computer, and a software program for quantification of episodes of hypoxemia. Heart rate and blood pressure were also monitored.

Results: There were no significant differences in tidal volume, respiratory compliance, or respiratory resistance when comparing measurements obtained before and after vecuronium administration. However, fewer episodes of hypoxemia (SpO2 < 85%, P = 0.025; and SpO2 < 80%, P = 0.04) were observed during muscle relaxation. No significant changes in heart rate or blood pressure were noted.

Conclusions: The preliminary data indicate: (i) a single dose of vecuronium does not significantly change respiratory compliance or respiratory resistance in preterm infants and (ii) during muscle relaxation fewer episodes of desaturation (hypoxemia) are observed.
Family and segregation studies: 411 Chinese children with primary nocturnal enuresis
Authors: WANG QING WEI , WEN JIAN GUO , ZHANG RUI LI , YANG HE YING , SU JING , LIU KUI , ZHU QING HUA , ZHANG PENG
Published: July 2007

Background: The aim of the present paper was to determine the incidence of primary nocturnal enuresis (PNE) among relatives of Chinese children with PNE, the inheritance pattern, and to identify the characteristics of PNE with positive family history.

Methods: From July 2003 to June 2004, an epidemiological survey on PNE children was carried out by self‐administered questionnaires to parents of 5–18‐year‐old Chinese students in Henan Province, central China. A detailed family history was recorded in order to determine the presence of familial PNE as defined as any close relative with PNE beyond the age of 5 years.

Results: The response rate was 88% (10 383/11 799), and 411 children (235 boys and 176 girls) with PNE were identified. A positive family history was found in 94 families (22.87%) of 411 probands with PNE, including 48.94% of fathers, 8.51% of mothers, 6.38% of both parents, 6.38% of the siblings and 29.79% of grandfathers or (and) mothers. Among the probands the ratio of male to female was 1.3:1 excluding sex‐linked inheritance. Autosomal dominant inheritance was in 14.60%, and autosomal recessive inheritance was consistent in 1.46% of families. In PNE children with positive family history, the proportion of adolescents, with associated daytime symptoms, marked PNE and seeking professional help were significantly higher than those in PNE children without positive family history.

Conclusions: PNE has a significant family clustering, and all modes of inheritance can occur in different families on the basis of a formal genetic analysis. Those with positive family history often manifest marked PNE, and have daytime symptoms.
Complications of central venous catheterization in critically ill children
Authors: KARAPINAR BULENT , CURA ALPHAN
Published: July 2007

Background: Placement of central venous catheter is essential in the management of critically ill children. The purpose of the present paper was to evaluate the success rate, mechanical and thrombotic complications and risk factors associated with these complications from different central venous access sites in critically ill children.

Methods: A prospective study was undertaken from February 2000 to March 2005 of 369 central venous catheterizations in children in a pediatric intensive care unit.

Results: The veins most frequently used were femoral vein (45%), subclavian vein (32.2%), and internal jugular vein (22.8%). Mean ± SD duration of catheterization was 9.5 ± 6.5 days. The procedure was performed under emergency conditions in 18% of patients with an overall success rate of 92.4%. The success rate was significantly lower in younger patients with subclavian catheterization. Insertion‐related complications were noted, including 33 arterial punctures (8.9%), 27 cases of malposition (7.3%), 19 hematomas (5.2%), 12 cases of minor bleeding (3.3%), and three cases of pneumothorax (0.8%), and they were more common in the subclavian vein than in the internal jugular and femoral vein. Multiple attempts and failed attempts significantly correlated with higher incidence of complications. Maintenance‐related complications included obstruction (n = 26; 7%), accidental removal (n = 14; 3.8%), central venous thrombosis (n = 8; 2.2%), subcutaneous extravasation (n = 14; 3.8%), dislodgment (n = 1; 0.25%), and extravascular infusion (n = 1; 0.25%). The frequency of catheter maintenance‐related complications was significantly higher in femoral catheterizations and increased significantly with an increase in the duration of catheterization. A total of five serious complications were seen (pneumothorax in three, dislodgment in one and extravascular infusion in one) in the present series.

Conclusions: Central venous catheterization in critically ill children is a relatively safe procedure, with a 1.3% rate of serious complications and no mortality. It seems safer to choose initially the femoral or internal jugular vein instead of the subclavian vein because of high success rate without serious insertion‐related complications.
Body composition and respiratory function in healthy non‐obese children
Authors: GONZALEZ‐BARCALA FRANCISCO J. , TAKKOUCHE BAHI , VALDES LUIS , LEIS ROSAURA , ALVAREZ‐CALDERON PEDRO , CABANAS RODRIGO , RODRÍGUEZ SUAREZ JOSE R. , TOJO RAFAEL
Published: July 2007

Background: The purpose of the present paper was to evaluate the role that body composition plays in lung function, among healthy children and adolescents.

Methods: Cross‐sectional study was undertaken using sex‐ and age‐stratified sampling among healthy children and adolescents aged 6–18 years. Spirometry was performed on every child who fulfilled inclusion criteria. Fat mass (FM) and fat‐free mass (FFM) were calculated from triceps skinfold thickness and arm circumference. Multiple logistic regression was used to obtain adjusted prevalence odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (95%CI) between low pulmonary function (PF) of schoolchildren and body composition expressed in FM and FFM. Calculations of OR imply that the outcome is dichotomous (low PF/normal PF), therefore those children who had parameters of pulmonary function below the 25th percentile were classed as cases and the rest of the subjects were considered as controls.

Results: A total of 2408 children were included; 1270 (53%) of them were male and 1138 (47%), female. Among boys the increase of FFM was associated with an increase of forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1). Among girls the increase of FFM was associated with an increase of FEV1, forced vital capacity, and peak expiratory flow. The increase in FM was associated with a decrease of spirometric parameters in both genders, with a stronger effect among boys.

Conclusions: The present study confirms the negative effect of body fat on the PF of children and adolescents, even though obese subjects were excluded. The effect is different between boys and girls.
Effects of folic acid on preschool children’s appetite: Randomized triple‐blind clinical trial
Authors: HATAMIZADEH NIKTA , EFTEKHAR HASSAN , SHAFAGHI BIJAN , MOHAMMAD KAZEM
Published: July 2007

Background: In recent years some Iranian pediatricians have used folic acid empirically as an appetite‐enhancing drug in poor‐appetite, low‐weight children. Many parents have expressed their satisfaction with this treatment but until now no study has been done to confirm or exclude folic acid as an appetite enhancer.

Methods: In order to determine if complementary folic acid has any effect on preschool children’s appetite, 61 3–5‐year‐old children (27 girls and 34 boys) whose weight/age and weight/height ratios were below the 25 centile and whose parents regarded them as having poor appetite were randomly assigned to receive either folic acid (1 mg/day) or placebo for 20 days. The primary outcome measures were any appetite changes during and 1 month after the end of the intervention, measured by means of a questionnaire completed by parents on the 20th and 60th days. Secondary measures were mean weight gain on the 30th and 60th days.

Results: Children who received folic supplement had a significantly better appetite on the 20th day than those who received placebo (mean difference of appetite score: 1.7; 95% confidence interval: 0.1–3.4; P = 0.04) and significantly more children receiving folic acid were reported to have increased appetite than the placebo group (P = 0.03). But 40 days after the end of the intervention there was no difference between the two groups. Weight gain did not significantly differ between groups.

Conclusions: Although folic acid appears to improve preschool children’s appetite, further study is necessary to determine whether it has any effect on growth as an adjunctive to management protocols of low appetite for undernourished children.
Mutations in type I collagen genes in Japanese osteogenesis imperfecta patients
Authors: KATAOKA KYOKO , OGURA ERIKO , HASEGAWA KOSEI , INOUE MASARU , SEINO YOSHIKI , MORISHIMA TSUNEO , TANAKA HIROYUKI
Published: July 2007

Background: Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) is an autosomal dominant disorder of connective tissue characterized by bone fragility and low bone mass. COL1A1 and COL1A2 genes are very large and have been rarely analyzed systematically in Japan. The aim of this project was to develop an effective and convenient method of finding mutations in the COL1A1 and COL1A2 gene by using denaturing high‐performance liquid chromatography (DHPLC).

Methods: Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplicons of genomic DNA from the COL1A1 or COL1A2 gene were followed by heteroduplex analysis by DHPLC. Products containing heteroduplexes were then sequenced.

Results: Twenty‐two OI families were analyzed, and 193 of the 1122 PCR products in the COL1A1 gene, all containing heteroduplexes, were sequenced. Sixty‐two samples had single‐base substitutions or single‐base deletions or insertions within introns. Eight had single‐base substitutions in exons. Six were pathogenic mutations, and two were silent mutations. In 16 families not identified with pathogenic mutation in COL1A1, COL1A2 was similarly analyzed. A total of 138 of the 848 PCR products were sequenced, and 46 samples had single‐base substitutions, or single‐base deletions or insertions within introns. Twenty‐four samples had single‐base substitutions in exons. Three were pathogenic mutations and the others silent.

Conclusions: Mutations were identified in nine COL1A1/COL1A2 associated with OI type I–IV genes by scanning with DHPLC. Software was used to detect point mutation and large deletions/insertions in COL1A1 and COL1A2 genes.
Hyaluronic acid: Additional biochemical marker in the diagnosis of biliary atresia
Authors: UKARAPOL NUTHAPONG , WONGSAWASDI LUMDUAN , ONG‐CHAI SIRIWAN , RIDDHIPUTRA PORNTHAWEE , KONGTAWELERT PRACHYA
Published: July 2007

Background: The purpose of the present paper was to evaluate the value of biochemical markers, including conventional liver function tests, γ‐glutamyl transferase (GGT), and hyaluronic acid (HA), in the diagnosis of neonatal cholestasis.

Methods: Infants with neonatal jaundice were consecutively enrolled during 1 year period. The patients were diagnosed as having biliary atresia (BA) if there was either bile ductular proliferation in the portal tracts, atretic common bile duct/gallbladder, or evidence of bile duct obstruction demonstrated by liver pathology or intraoperative cholangiography, respectively. Serum HA was measured using an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay‐based test.

Results: A total of 25 patients diagnosed as having BA (n = 10), neonatal hepatitis (NH; n = 9), choledochal cyst (n = 3) and parenteral nutrition‐induced cholestasis (n = 3), were studied. The age at diagnosis was not significantly different between groups. Only GGT and HA were significantly elevated in the patients with BA when compared to NH (P  =  0.02, P  =  0.03, respectively). In BA, the median value of serum HA was 514 ng/mL (range 19–4476 ng/mL), compared to 50 ng/mL (range 19–315 ng/mL) in NH. Additionally, the serum HA level was much higher in children with choledochal cyst.

Conclusion: HA could be considered as a complementary biochemical marker for evaluating infants with prolonged jaundice.
Evaluation of shigellosis in a Turkish children’s hospital
Authors: KARACAN CANDEMIR , TAVIL BETÜL , TOPAL YASAR , ZORLU PELIN , TAYMAN CÜNEYT
Published: July 2007

Background: The aim of the present study was to evaluate cases of Shigella and determine the pattern of antimicrobial resistance of shigella species in central Turkey.

Methods and Results: One hundred and ninety‐eight patients with shigella gastroenteritis presenting to Sami Ulus Children’s Hospital from June 2002 to December 2002 were included in the study. The clinical and laboratory data of the patients with shigellosis were collected by chart review. Male/female ratio was 1.35 and mean age was 4.83 ± 3.2 years (range: 1–16 years). Shigella sonnei (83.3%) was the most common serogroup. This was followed by S. flexneri (10.1%), then S. dysenteria (5.1%), and S. boydii (1.5%). The antibiotic susceptibility of the shigella strains was determined. Most strains of Shigella species were resistant to trimethoprim–sulfamethoxazole (90.4%). All strains were found to be sensitive to ciprofloxacin (100%). Ampicillin susceptibility was 86.4% and cefotaxim (and/or ceftriaxon) susceptibility was 98%.

Conclusion: Ampicillin is the drug of choice in the treatment of shigella infection in this region of Turkey. Cefotaxim or ceftriaxon was the second choice of antibiotics. Thus, Shigella is an important etiologic agent of diarrhea in Turkey. To determine the antibiotic susceptibility of the Shigella strains and appropriate empiric antibiotic treatment in Turkey, further studies will be needed.
Epidemiology of school urinary screening over a 30 year period in Tokyo
Authors: YANAGIHARA TAKESHI , KURODA NAO , HAYAKAWA MARI , YOSHIDA JUNKO , TSUCHIYA MASAMI , YAMAUCHI KUNIAKI , MURAKAMI MUTSUMI , FUKUNAGA YOSHITAKA
Published: July 2007

Background: A school urinary screening (SUS) system has been conducted for 30 years in Japan, but the cross‐sectional data have never been reported or analyzed. The purpose of the present study was to analyze the data epidemiologically.

Methods: All elementary and junior high school children in public school in Tokyo who had SUS performed by the Tokyo Health Service Association from 1974 to 2002 (approx. 400 000–600 000 children per year) were involved. The cross‐sectional data were analyzed with Pearson’s correlation coefficient.

Results: During the first 10 years of SUS, the prevalence of abnormal urinalysis in both the first and second screenings varied widely, and the result of the second screening was affected by that of the first screening. The results of both first and second screening were highly correlated with the prevalence of hematuria, especially microhematuria, in both elementary and junior high school children. They were also correlated with the prevalence of proteinuria in junior high school children. Important factors that affected the prevalence of hematuria and/or proteinuria were reagent strips and sampling method of urinalysis.

Conclusions: In order to validate SUS, attention should be paid to quality controls of the screening method, such as the selection of reagent strips, and the participants should be instructed to strictly adhere to the sampling method.
Etiology of neonatal gastric perforations: Review of 10 years’ experience
Authors: DURAN RIDVAN , İNAN MUSTAFA , VATANSEVER ÜLFET , ALADAĞ NÜKHET , ACUNAŞ BETÜL
Published: July 2007

Background: Neonatal gastric perforation (NGP) is a rare event and its etiology is still controversial. Although it has previously been described as spontaneous, recently some risk factors have been reported to be associated with the development of NGP including prematurity and nasal ventilation. The purpose of the present paper was to report and discuss etiology, clinical features, and outcome of the authors’ NGP cases over a 10 year period.

Methods: Charts of five infants with NGP was reviewed in terms of gender, birthweight, gestational age, time of diagnosis, associated disease, site of perforation, type of surgery performed, and clinical outcome.

Results: There were three boys and two girls with a mean birthweight and gestational age of 1650 g and 32 weeks, respectively. Three of them were premature. Mean perforation time was day 10 postnatally. Three infants had associated problems including prematurity, respiratory distress syndrome type 1, necrotizing enterocolitis, mechanical ventilator support, and one of them had tracheaesophageal fistula. Mothers of two out of these three infants had chorioamnionitis. One full‐term infant received dexamethasone because of brain edema. Only one patient had no associated problem. Perforation occurred in the lesser curvature in three infants and in the greater curvature in two infants. Mortality rate was 60%.

Conclusions: Contrary to previous literature, and similar to recent publications, it was found that essentially low‐birthweight infants with tracheaesophageal fistula or chorioamnionitis and full‐term babies on steroid therapy may have a risk for NGP, suggesting that an infant with contributing factors should be monitored more carefully for the development of NGP.
Sagittal spinal alignment in patients with Legg‐Calve‐Perthes disease
Authors: KITOH HIROSHI , KITAKOJI TAKAHIKO , KATOH MITSUYASU , ISHIGURO NAOKI
Published: July 2007

Background: Legg‐Calve‐Perthes disease (LCPD) is an avascular necrosis of the capital femoral epiphysis in children. Several studies found a pathophysiological relationship between LCPD and juvenile Scheuermann’s kyphosis, suggesting an abnormal spinal condition related to osteochondrogenesis. In the present study sagittal spinal alignment of the patients with LCPD was analyzed to examine associated spinal involvement.

Methods: A standing lateral radiograph of the spine was evaluated in 78 patients who had a history of LCPD. Various parameters of sagittal spinal alignment, including thoracic kyphosis (TK), lumbar lordosis (LL), sacral inclination (SI), apex of thoracic kyphosis (TK‐apex) and lumbar lordosis (LL‐apex), and sagittal balance (SB; positive SB values represent a sagittal balance in front of the sacrum) were measured and compared between the patients with and without vertebral abnormalities.

Results: Compared to previously published normative data, relatively decreased LL was evident in LCPD. Most of the patients (65%) had negative SB, which was correlated with decreased SI, more proximal TK‐apex, and more distal LL‐apex. Vertebral abnormalities including end‐plate irregularities and wedging vertebrae were observed in 20 patients. Decreased SI, more distal LL‐apex, and more negative SB were remarkable in the patients with vertebral abnormalities.

Conclusions: The patients tended to stand in greater negative sagittal balance associated with decreased LL. The characteristic sagittal alignment was prominent especially in the patients with vertebral abnormalities. Wedging vertebrae, probably due to growth disturbance of the vertebral bodies, could result in decreased LL, which leads to posterior pelvic tilt and posterior shift of sagittal balance.
Final height in children with steroid‐sensitive nephrotic syndrome
Authors: MOTOYAMA OSAMU , IITAKA KIKUO
Published: July 2007

Background: Growth retardation following steroid treatment in children is a major problem. Reduction of steroid dose has been tried using immunosuppressive agents such as cyclosporine A or mizoribine in children with frequently relapsing nephrotic syndrome. Few reports concerning final height in steroid‐sensitive nephrotic syndrome (SSNS) are available.

Method: Patients who developed SSNS before 15 years of age and reached their final height were retrospectively studied by standard deviation score (SDS) of height and target height calculated by their parental height.

Results: A total of 34 patients were evaluated for their final height. The mean age at onset of SSNS was 8.0 years and the mean age at last follow up was 21.6 years. In total, 22 patients had frequent relapses and were treated with cyclophosphamide, mizoribine or cyclosporin A. All patients had normal renal function at the last evaluation. The mean final height was 168 cm in males and 155 cm in females. The mean height SDS was 0.37 at the time of onset and was −0.43 when they reached their final height (P = 0.0001). The final height was a mean of 2.5 cm below target height and was significantly lower than their siblings (P = 0.007). Final height of two boys who continued to have frequent relapses during puberty and were not treated with cyclosporin A was 146 and 150 cm.

Conclusion: Final height in children with SSNS was slightly affected by steroid treatment and two patients had severe growth retardation.
The influence of posterior capsular opacification removal on anterior segment birefringence parameters as measured by scanning laser polarimetry
Authors: Garcia‐Medina Jose J , Garcia‐Medina Manuel , Zanon‐Moreno Vicente C , Gallego‐Pinazo Roberto , Pons‐Vazquez Sheila , Gonzalez‐Ocampo Samuel , Pinazo‐Durán María D
Published: July 2007

Abstract

Purpose:  To determine the effect of posterior capsular opacification (PCO) removal on anterior segment birefringence (ASB) and its influence on peripapillary retinal nerve fibre layer (RNFL) retardation measurements obtained by means of scanning laser polarimetry.

Methods:  In this prospective interventional study, scanning laser polarimetry was performed using GDx variable corneal compensation on 26 eyes of 26 patients who developed clinically significant PCO (after uncomplicated cataract surgery and with no other ocular pathology) both before and between 1 and 4 weeks after Nd:YAG capsulotomy. Best‐corrected visual acuity (BCVA), intraocular pressure, corneal polarization axis (CPA), corneal polarization magnitude (CPM) were compared using the Student t‐test and Wilcoxon signed ranks test. Spearman correlations between changes (differences between values after and before capsulotomy) in the CPA, CPM, BCVA and RNFL data were also performed.

Results:  PCO removal is associated with a shift in CPA (from 10.86 to 15.03 degrees, P = 0.004) and CPM (from 28.54 to 37.92 nm, P = 0.004). Significant correlations were found between changes in the parameters of ASB and BCVA. Furthermore, RNFL measurements (nerve fibre indicator, temporal‐superior‐nasal‐inferior‐temporal average and superior average) were also well related to the CPA and CPM shifts.

Conclusions:  PCO induces an inaccurate compensation of ASB which affects RNFL assessment. Thus, it is necessary to recompensate ASB after posterior capsulotomy.
Surface modification of silicone intraocular lens by 2‐methacryloyloxyethyl phosphoryl‐choline binding to reduce Staphylococcus epidermidis adherence
Authors: Huang Xiao‐Dan , Yao Ke , Zhang Hui , Huang Xiao‐Jun , Xu Zhi‐Kang
Published: July 2007

Abstract

Purpose:  To analyse the in vitro adherence of Staphylococcus epidermidis to the 2‐methacryloyl oxyethyl phosphorylcholine (MPC)‐modified silicone intraocular lens (IOL).

Methods:  The test IOLs were modified by using an air plasma treatment to bind MPC to the surface. The control IOLs were not modified. Chemical changes on the IOL surface were analysed by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) to confirm the covalent binding of MPC. IOL hydrophilicity was determined by measuring the water contact angle. Two different techniques, direct counting of viable adherent bacteria released by sonication, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM), were used to observe and compare the adherence of S. epidermidis to the IOLs after 1‐ and 18‐h incubation.

Results:  XPS analysis confirmed that the test IOLs were surface‐modified with MPC. The hydrophilicity of the IOLs was improved by surface modification, and the MPC‐modified IOLs exhibited significantly reduced adhesion of S. epidermidis (P = 0.002) after an incubation period of 1 h. The SEM results showed that the MPC modification also suppressed the accumulation of bacteria and biofilm production after 18 h incubation.

Conclusions:  MPC‐modified hydrophilic silicone IOLs reduce bacterial adherence and colonization, and thus may help reduce the incidence of postoperative endophthalmitis.
Regression of choroidal metastasis from breast carcinoma following Letrozole therapy
Authors: Venkatesh Pradeep , Garg Satpal
Published: July 2007

Abstract

Metastasis to the choroid from primary tumours elsewhere in the body is not an infrequent occurrence. Management of such metastasis may involve modalities such as radiotherapy, chemotherapy, photocoagulation and surgical resection. The role of hormonal therapy is poorly defined in the management of these tumours. Herein regression of choroidal metastasis from primary breast carcinoma following antihormonal therapy with the antioestrogen drug Letrozole is reported.
Subacute complete ophthalmoplegia: an anti‐Hu paraneoplastic manifestation of myxoid liposarcoma
Authors: Chan Jane W
Published: July 2007

Abstract

Paraneoplastic neurological syndromes are well‐known sequelae of some cancers. Based on the current literature, this is the first report of a complete ophthalmoplegia preceding the diagnosis of a myxoid liposarcoma associated with the anti‐Hu antibody. An 83‐year‐old woman presented with a several‐month history of progressive ophthalmoplegia without any other neurological symptoms or signs. After resection of her myxoid liposarcoma grade 1, her ophthalmoplegia resolved. Her paraneoplastic syndrome was associated with the anti‐Hu antibody. It is important to consider an underlying malignancy when an isolated, complete ophthalmoplegia presents subacutely and when other more common aetiologies are ruled out.
Hughes syndrome
Authors: Sivaprasad Sobha , Gregor Zdenek
Published: July 2007

Abstract

Antiphospholipid syndrome, also known as Hughes syndrome, is a recently described entity that mimics symptoms of other diseases such as multiple sclerosis. It is a potentially life‐threatening autoimmune disorder where the body produces antibodies directed against phospholipids and phospholipid‐binding proteins. Herein a patient with successive ocular vascular events associated with antiphospholipid syndrome is presented.