bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The effect of keratinocyte growth factor on healing of manifest radiation ulcers in mouse tongue epithelium
Authors: Dörr W. , Spekl K. , Farrell C. L. 
Published: March 2003

Abstract. The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of recombinant human keratinocyte growth factor (rHuKGF) on clinically manifest acute oral mucositis. The animal model utilized in this investigation was ventral tongue epithelium of C3H/Neu mice. In a first experiment, graded single doses were applied in order to define dose effect and time course of acute mucosal ulceration, as a clinically relevant endpoint. Irradiation was given to a 3 × 3 mm2 test field in the centre of the ventral tongue with 25 kV X‐rays. A single dose of 18 Gy, i.e. a dose after which ulceration is expected in more than 99% of the animals, was applied in subsequent experiments. In the study group of 20 animals, rHuKGF was applied at a daily dose of 5 mg/kg subcutaneously from the time of first diagnosis of ulcer for a maximum of 5 days. In the control group, phosphate‐buffered saline was used as a placebo. The time course of ulceration, i.e. individual ulcer duration, was analysed in both the control group without rHuKGF and the study group. Irradiation with graded single doses yielded an ED50 of 11.5 ± 0.7 Gy (logit analysis). In responding animals, the latent time to first diagnosis of ulceration and the individual ulcer duration were independent of dose. Mean latency (± standard deviation) was 10.5 ± 0.5 days, mean ulcer duration 3.9 ± 0.6 days for doses 11, 13 and 16 Gy. After a dose of 18 Gy, 39 animals developed ulceration after a mean latency of 9.3 ± 0.3 days (control and KGF‐treated). The average ulcer duration was 4.2 ± 0.9 days in the placebo group and 4.8 ± 0.8 days in the KGF group (P = 0.02). We conclude that when rHuKGF treatment is delayed until radiation‐induced ulcers are manifest, the therapeutic activity previously reported with other treatment schedules was not observed and there was a slight prolongation of duration of ulceration. These data suggest that during tumour radiotherapy, effective rHuKGF therapy schedules should include administration before the onset of ulcerative mucositis.
Blame and family conflict: symptomatic children as scapegoats
Authors: Yahav Rivka , Sharlin Shlomo A. 
Published: March 2003

ABSTRACTThe study’s aim was to examine the relation between children’s symptom type, specifically externalized vs. internalized symptoms, and children’s perception of being blamed by family members for various family conflicts. The research hypothesis was based on theories of family therapy, in particular on the concept of scapegoating and projective identification processes. The subjects were chosen from treatment centres for children and adolescents, using the Achenbach Self‐Report Questionnaire. Subjects included males and females, aged 10–17, who had either internalized or externalized symptoms and no history of organic or psychotic disorders. The control group consisted of non‐symptomatic children. The research groups also included each child’s sibling closest in chronological age, who served as an additional control group. A total of 161 children participated in the study. It was found that externalizing children reported greater subjection to parental blame than did the other children.
Developmental disorders of glucose metabolism in infants
Authors: Hume R. , McGeechan A. , Burchell A. 
Published: March 2003

Abstract Background Developmental failures to adequately control postnatal blood glucose levels are common in the transition from fetal to infant life and can persist for many months. The standard method of functionally measuring hepatic glucose production and/or disordered glucose production is the response to a glucagon tolerance test. Method We adapted the standard glucagon tolerance test used for children and adults for use in preterm infants. 79 consecutive preterm infants gestational age range 25–36 weeks (mean 32.2 weeks), mean birth weight 1.66 kg admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Ninewells Hospital, Dundee and who survived to discharge home were recruited into the study. At the time of discharge home the characteristics of the group were as follows: adjusted mean gestational age 36.7 weeks, mean discharge weight 2.23 kg. Results In this study of preterm infants the maximal increase in plasma glucose following administration of a glucagon tolerance test is 1.39 ± 07 mmol/L, n = 78 (range 0–3.98 mmol/L). Conclusions An increase in plasma glucose of less than 4 mmol/L is considered abnormal in adults following administration of a fasting glucagon tolerance test. The responses of preterm infants and adults to glucagon are clearly different. The attenuated response to glucagon in the preterm infants is consistent with the low levels of hepatic glucose‐6‐phosphatase activity in premature infants as glucose‐6‐phosphatase is the terminal step of the two main pathways of liver glucose production.
Secondary school accident reporting in one education authority
Authors: Williams W.R. , Latif A.H.A. , Sibert J 
Published: March 2003

Abstract
Background
Secondary schools appear to have very different accident rates when they are compared on the basis of accident report returns. The variation may be as a result of real differences in accident rates or different reporting procedures. This study investigates accident reporting from secondary schools and, in particular, the role of the school nurse.
Methods
Accident form returns covering a 2‐year period were collected for statistical analysis from 13 comprehensive schools in one local education authority in Wales. School sites were visited in the following school year to obtain information about accident records held on site and accident reporting procedures.
Results
The main factors determining the number of school accident reports submitted to the education authority relate to differences in recording and reporting procedures, such as the employment of a nurse and the policy of the head teacher/safety officer on submitting accident returns. Accident and emergency department referrals from similar schools may show significant differences in specific injuries and their causes.
Conclusions
The level of school accident activity cannot be gauged from reports submitted to the education authority. Lack of incentives for collecting good accident data, in conjunction with the degree of complacency in the current system, suggest that future accident rates and reporting activity are unlikely to change.
Motor performance and behaviour in preterm and full‐term 3‐year‐old children
Authors: Hemgren E. , Persson K. 
Published: March 2003

AbstractAim To compare the motor performance and behaviour at 3 years of age of very preterm,
moderately preterm and full‐term children (n = 221), who needed neonatal intensive care (NIC), and of 72 neonatally healthy full‐term children (reference group).Method A model for combined assessment of motor performance and behaviour (CAMPB) was used. The children’s performance was assessed on the basis of observations and documentation of categories of co‐ordination, attention and social behaviour included in CAMPB.Results Significantly more very preterm children showed deviations in co‐ordination than children in the other groups, and this difference was most evident in comparison with the reference group. No differences were found between the groups regarding attention and social behaviour during the assessment.Conclusion Very preterm children differ from moderately preterm and full‐term children in their motor performance at 3 years of age. By means of CAMPB, individual children with pronounced inco‐ordination were identified in all groups, and some of them also showed pronounced lack of attention.
Health of children considered for adoption
Authors: Colver A. F. , Gale C. , Appleby L. 
Published: March 2003

AbstractChildren in the ‘care’ system are known to have poor health. Although health services can respond to and deal with health problems, it is parents, foster parents and social workers who recognize problems, seek advice and keep follow‐up appointments. Many health needs remain unmet in such children. This short paper from a deprived area in north‐east England shows that once a decision is made to proceed to adoption, the stable and consistent care that can then be provided meets the increased health needs that such children have.
Detecting emotional and behavioural problems in paediatric clinics
Authors: Glazebrook C. , Hollis C. , Heussler H. , Goodman R. , Coates L. 
Published: March 2003

AbstractBackground  Children with chronic illness have increased rates of mental health problems and psychological difficulties often present as physical conditions. This prevalence survey aims to determine whether children attending general paediatric out‐patient clinics are at increased risk of suffering from emotional and behavioural disturbance and whether there is an unmet need for psychiatric liaison to paediatric clinics.Methods  Participants were 307 children aged 5–15 years attending a representative sample of paediatric out‐patient clinics in one UK hospital. A national community sample of 10 438 children aged 5–15 years was used as a comparison group. Parental ratings of child behaviour were obtained using the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ). Doctors rated the extent of any emotional difficulties using a modification of the SDQ ‘impact supplement’.Results  Children attending paediatric out‐patient clinics were more than twice as likely (OR = 2.3, 95% CI 1.7–3.1) to score in the abnormal range of the SDQ. Of the 60 (20%) children with a probable psychiatric disorder only 15 had received specialist help from Child Mental Health Services. There were no gender differences in the profile of difficulties with emotional symptoms being particularly evident in both boys (OR = 2.85, 95% CI 1.97–4.11) and girls (OR = 3.04, 95% CI 1.92–4.70). The risk of psychiatric disorder was highest among those children with brain disorders attending neurological clinics (OR = 5.8, 95% CI 2.5–11.3). Clinicians only identified emotional or behaviour problems in a quarter of those children with parent‐rated disorder.Conclusion  There is an increased prevalence of emotional and behavioural disturbance in children attending paediatric out‐patient clinics. The SDQ could be added to routine paediatric assessments to aid appropriate referral of children with a possible psychiatric disorder to child mental health services.
Linkage and allelic association of atopy and markers flanking the IL4‐receptor gene
Authors: Deichmann K. A. , Heinzmann A. , Forster J. , Dischinger S. , Mehl C. , Brueggenolte E. , Hildebrandt F. , Moseler M. , Kuehr J. 
Published: March 2003

BackgroundAtopy, a clinical syndrome characterized by heightened IgE responsiveness, is largely determined by genetic factors. The disease may well be heterogeneous but the mode of inheritance is unknown. Several genes have been named which affected IgE responsiveness. However, results are conflicting reflecting heterogeneity and a complicated inheritance pattern of the atopic syndrome. In 1994 linkage of the 5q32 gene region and elevated total IgE levels were reported, leaving the IL4 gene as a prominent candidate.ObjectivesWe were interested in a possible involvement of the IL4‐receptor gene in the development of atopy.MethodsWe employed sib‐pair linkage analysis using highly polymorphic microsatellite markers within and flanking the IL4 receptor gene in atopic families, characterized for specific sensitization to inhalant allergens and elevated total serum IgE. Allele sizes were determined for all microsatellite probes to allow transmission disequilibrium analysis.ResultsWe found significant sharing of maternal but not paternal alleles in affected sibs from two independent populations, both of which presented enhanced IgE responsiveness. Linkage and maternal inheritance could be confirmed by transmission disequilibrium analysis.ConclusionsWe conclude from our findings that maternal inheritance of a gene in the chromosome 16p12 region increases the risk for enhanced IgE responsiveness. The most prominent candidate in this region is represented by the IL4 receptor gene.
Comparison of nasal mucosal responsiveness to neuronal stimulation in non‐allergic and allergic rhinitis: effects of capsaicin nasal challenge
Authors: Sanico  , Philip  , Proud  , Naclerio  , Togias  
Published: March 2003

BackgroundNeuronal involvement has been implicated in the pathophysiology of non‐allergic and allergic rhinitis, contributing to the typical exacerbation of these conditions upon exposure to non‐specific environmental irritants.ObjectivesTo determine if non‐allergic and allergic rhinitis are characterized by increased responsiveness of the nasal mucosa to sensorineural stimulation.MethodsNasal challenges with capsaicin and its vehicle were performed in three groups of subjects — non‐allergic rhinitics, perennial allergic rhinitics, and healthy controls — and resultant symptom scores, glandular secretion reflected by lactoferrin levels, and plasma extravasation reflected by albumin levels in nasal lavage fluid were compared.ResultsCapsaicin‐sensitive nerve stimulation produced increases in symptom scores and lactoferrin levels which were similar among the three groups of subjects. On the other hand, only the group of subjects with allergic rhinitis demonstrated a significant capsaicin‐induced increase in albumin levels and a trend in total protein levels.ConclusionsWe conclude that nonallergic rhinitis is not characterized by increased responsiveness of capsaicin‐sensitive nerve fibres; while allergic rhinitis is marked by hyperresponsiveness manifested as increased albumin leakage in nasal fluids. This may reflect the activity of an axonal reflex to sensorineural stimulation.
Occupational asthma in fruit salad processing
Authors: Sen  , Wiley  , Williams  
Published: March 2003

BackgroundThree subjects employed in the preparation of fruit for fruit salads reported work‐related respiratory symptoms. Their work entailed removing the peel from citrus fruits, primarily oranges, following soaking of the fruits in a bath of enzymes including fungal derived pectinase and glucanase.ObjectivesTo investigate the respiratory symptoms reported by these workers and determine their causes.MethodsThe three workers were investigated by a respiratory physician, including spirometry and serial peak flow measurements. Blood was taken for the measurement of IgE and IgG antibody responses against the enzyme solution.ResultsPredominant symptoms in these workers were shortness of breath, chest tightness and wheezing which were all alleviated at weekends and holidays only to occur when returning to work. Serial peak flow measurements showed a clear work‐related pattern. All three had strong IgE responses to the enzyme solution used at the workplace and showed distinct patterns of binding in immunoblots. All three improved immensely following withdrawal from the workplace environment.ConclusionEnzymes appear to be widely used in the preparation of fruit and although they are used in liquid form, exposure can occur to induce immunological sensitization and asthma.
Perinatal risk factors for atopic disease in conscripts
Authors: BRÅBÄck  , Hedberg  
Published: March 2003

BackgroundThere is evidence to suggest that atopic disease in adulthood could be manifestations of events in early life.ObjectivesTo investigate the relationship between perinatal risk factors and the prevalence of allergic rhinitis and asthma in conscripts.MethodsA retrospective cohort study, where information from the Military Service Enrolment Register was linked to the national Medical Birth Register. The study included 149 398 male conscripts who were born in Sweden in 1973, 1974 and 1975. Outcome measures were current asthma and allergic rhinitis recognized at the compulsory military conscript examinations.ResultsUnifactorial analyses demonstrated that number of older siblings, young maternal age, multiple gestation, prematurity, low birth weight, growth retardation and perinatal asphyxia were all significantly related to a decreased risk of allergic rhinitis among male conscripts. The prevalence rates of allergic rhinitis among conscripts with and without older siblings were 14.1% and 16.2%, respectively (odds ratio 0.85; 95% confidence interval 0.82–0.87). The prevalence rates of allergic rhinitis among those with term birth (>36 weeks), moderately preterm birth (33–36 weeks) and very preterm birth (<33 weeks) were 15.2%, 13.1% and 11.6%, respectively. Older siblings, multiple gestation and young maternal age were highly significant independent determinants of allergic rhinitis. By contrast, the effects of prematurity, low birthweight and asphyxia were weaker and highly correlated. The only independent determinants of asthma were maternal age, birthweight and multiple gestation. Furthermore, maternal age and birthweight had opposite effects on asthma and allergic rhinitis.ConclusionsIn contrast to asthma, allergic rhinitis in young adult men was strongly associated with perinatal events. This may reflect the close relationship between allergic rhinitis and atopic sensitization, whereas asthma has a more multifactorial aetiology.
Effects of long‐term oral treatment with leflunomide on allergic sensitization, lymphocyte activation, and airway inflammation in a rat model of asthma
Authors: Uhlig  , Cooper  , Eber  , Mcmenamin  , Wildhaber  , Sly  
Published: March 2003

BackgroundShort‐term treatment with leflunomide is effective in suppressing antigen‐specific antibody production and allergen‐induced bronchoconstriction after sensitization. This agent may thus have a role in future primary prevention strategies in allergic disease.ObjectiveThe current study aimed to determine whether long‐term oral treatment with leflunomide prevents allergic sensitization permanently.MethodsAfter sensitization with ovalbumin, six groups of rats (n = 31) were treated daily with leflunomide or diluent for up to 30 days. Ovalbumin‐specific IgE and IgG were determined weekly for at least 2 weeks after cessation of treatment. T lymphocytes from another 21 animals were stimulated ex vivo with ovalbumin or concanavalin A.ResultsOvalbumin‐specific IgE and IgG were lower during treatment with leflunomide compared with controls (P < 0.002) but increased after the cessation of treatment. Antigen‐specific T‐cell proliferation was decreased in cells obtained from leflunomide treated animals (P < 0.05), but not when stimulated with concanavalin A. Eosinophil (P < 0.0001) and neutrophil (P < 0.02) numbers in bronchoalveolar lavage 24 h after allergen challenge were lower in the leflunomide treated animals.ConclusionsLeflunomide prevents antigen‐specific immunoglobulin production after sensitization during treatment, inhibits allergen‐induced airway inflammation and diminishes antigen‐specific T lymphocyte proliferation.
Study of a case of hypersensitivity to lettuce (Lactuca sativa)
Authors: Vila  , SÁnchez  , Sanz  , DIÉguez  , MartÍnez  , Palacios  , MartÍnez  
Published: March 2003

BackgroundAllergic reactions to lettuce (Lactuca sativa) are not too frequent and few cases of systemic adverse reactions after its ingestion have been described.ObjectiveWe report a case of clinical sensitization to lettuce on a patient who presented mucocutaneous manifestations after its ingestion, with positive skin tests, histamine release test and serum specific‐IgE to lettuce. The allergens responsible for this sensitization were also characterized by means of SDS‐PAGE immunoblotting.Materials and methodsWe performed skin tests, histamine release test, serum specific IgE determination and CAP inhibition with lettuce and mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) extracts. An aqueous and enriched lettuce (from loose leaf type) extract was subjected to SDS‐PAGE immunoblotting for determination of its IgE‐binding components.Resultsand Conclusions CAP inhibition showed antigenic community between lettuce and mugwort. Four protein bands from the lettuce extracts with molecular weights of 50, 43, 39 and 16 kDa exhibited IgE‐binding properties.
The late asthmatic response is associated with baseline allergen‐specific proliferative responsiveness of peripheral T lymphocytes in vitro and serum interleukin‐5
Authors: Van Der Veen  , Van Neerven  , De Jong  , Aalberse  , Jansen  , Van Der Zee  
Published: March 2003

BackgroundIncreasing insights into the mechanism underlying the allergen‐induced late asthmatic response (LAR) have been gained with implication of activated eosinophils and CD4+ T lymphocytes. However, the patient characteristics that indicate the individual capacity to develop a LAR are not well‐defined.MethodsIn 22 subjects with mild to moderate house dust mite‐allergic asthma, we investigated the relationship between the LAR and two other models of late‐phase allergic inflammation, i.e. the allergen‐specific proliferative response of peripheral blood T lymphocytes in vitro and the late cutaneous response. Non‐specific bronchial responsiveness (PC20 histamine), lung function (FEV1), peripheral blood eosinophil count, early phase allergic skin sensitivity, and levels of total and specific immunoglobulin E (IgE) were determined prior to bronchial allergen challenge. Serum levels of interleukin‐5 (IL‐5) were measured before and at several time points after allergen inhalation.ResultsA significant correlation was found between the magnitude of the LAR and the allergen‐specific proliferative response of peripheral T lymphocytes (r = 0.44, P = 0.04) but not the late cutaneous response. Stepwise‐multiple linear regression of the magnitude of the LAR on the parameters analysed at baseline, resulted in a model combining PC20 histamine, early phase allergic skin sensitivity, and the allergen‐specific proliferative response of peripheral T lymphocytes (R2 = 0.84, P < 0.001). No contribution of the late cutaneous response to the prediction of the LAR was found. Serum levels of IL‐5 increased significantly at 6 h (P = 0.01) and 24 h (P = 0.003) after bronchial allergen challenge and correlated with the allergen‐specific proliferative response of peripheral T lymphocytes in vitro (ρ = 0.48, P = 0.02).ConclusionsThe findings in this study point to a role of TH2‐lymphocyte responses in the development of the allergen‐induced LAR. In allergic asthmatic patients, allergen‐specific responsiveness of peripheral T‐lymphocytes in vitro may serve as a model to determine the individual capacity to develop a LAR after allergen inhalation.