bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Disturbed Circadian Rhythm of Urinary Albumin Excretion in Non-Dipper Type of Essential Hypertension
Authors: Nishimura Masataka , Uzu Takashi , Fujii Takashi , Kimura Genjiro 
Published: April 2003

Recently, we found that the circadian rhythms of natriuresis as well as of glomerular filtration rate were disturbed similar to the blood pressure in non-dipper type of essential hypertension during intake of a high-sodium diet. In this study, we examined circadian rhythms of the urinary albumin excretion rate (AER), which is recognized as a marker of glomerular capillary hydraulic pressure, in addition to those of urinary sodium excretion and blood pressure in 27 patients with essential hypertension. The patients were maintained on relatively high (10–12 g) on low (1–3 g) sodium (NaCl) diets for 1 week. On the last day of each diet, the 24-hour blood pressure was measured every 30 min noninvasively, and during the last 3 days, urine samples were collected for determination of both daytime (07:00–21.30 h) and nighttime (21.30–07.00 h) sodium and AER variations. During the high-sodium diet, nocturnal falls in urinary sodium excretion and blood pressure were observed in dippers (n = 7), while they were not observed in non-dipper (n = 20). The nocturnal decline in AER was also observed in dippers (day: 37 ×/÷ 6 µg/min vs. night: 22 ×/÷ 5 µg/min; p < 0.02), while it was not observed in non-dippers (day: 49 ×/÷ 6 µg/min vs. night: 40 ×/÷ 8 µg/min; NS). During intake of the low-sodium diet, on the other hand, a nocturnal decline in AER was observed in both types of hypertension. Sodium restriction significantly reduced only the nighttime AER in non-dippers (p < 0.01). These findings indicate that changes in dietary sodium intake modified the circadian rhythms of both blood pressure and AER in non-dippers. Renal sodium handling may contribute to determining the circadian rhythm of blood pressure, and furthermore an elevated glomerular capillary hydraulic pressure during the night may enhance the nocturnal albumin excretion in non-dippers.
Detection of mRNA for Alpha-3 Chain of Type IV Collagen in the Glomerular Epithelium, and the Effect of Perfused Elastase on Its Expression
Authors: Nogae Shoji , Michimata Mari , Araki Tsutomu , Suzuki Michiko , Kazama Itsuro , Ito Sadayoshi , Imai Yutaka , Matsubara Mitsunobu 
Published: April 2003

<i>Background:</i> The type IV collagen is a complex of trimetric molecule composed of six genetically distinct polypeptide chains; α1–6(IV). Since α3(IV) distribute specifically in the glomerular basement membrane (GBM) of glomerular capillary, we tried to develop the detection methods for the transcripts of α3(IV) in glomerular epithelial cells (GEC) which produce most of the components for GBM. Then, using these molecular techniques, the influence of elastase, one of the proteases released from activated polymorphonuclear leukocytes at the site of inflammation, on GEC was determined as manifested by expressional alteration of α3(IV) mRNA. <i>Methods:</i> DIG-labeled oligo-DNA probe designating non-collagenous region of α3(IV) was used for in situ hybridization. Semiquantitative measurement of α3(IV) in the renal cortex was performed by PCR reactions, each reaction being normalized by that for GAPDH. Then, the femoral artery of each of 18 Sprague-Dawley rats was catheterized and the left kidney was perfused with saline alone (0.5 ml) or saline containing 100 µg/ml elastase. After collection of urine for 24 h, the left kidney was harvested for analysis of mRNA (4 for in situ hybridization and 5 kidneys for PCR analysis). <i>Results:</i> Antisense cDNA probe and PCR reaction well identified α3(IV) mRNA in the cytoplasm of GEC and in the renal cortex, respectively. Urinary protein excreted by rats with elastase perfusion was 47.2 ± 3.8 mg/24 h but this was only 13.9 ± 1.1 mg/24 h in control rats (mean ± SEM, p < 0.05). In situ hybridization demonstrated that expression of α3(IV) mRNA in GEC was focally or diffusely reduced in the glomeruli of rats with elastase perfusion, whereas the transcripts were well stained in GEC of controls. PCR analysis showed about 25% decrease in transcripts of α3(IV) in the renal cortex of rats with elastase perfusion compared to those of control rats. <i>Conclusions:</i> α3(IV) mRNA was identified specifically in the GEC in the glomeruli. Co-incidence of proteinuria and reduced α3(IV) expression by elastase suggests adverse effects of elastase on GEC and close association between proteinuria and GEC injury.
Evaluation of Gastric Motor Activity in the Elderly by Electrogastrography and the <sup>13</sup>C-Acetate Breath Test
Authors: Shimamoto Chikao , Hirata Ichiro , Hiraike Yutaka , Takeuchi Nozomi , Nomura Toshiyuki , Katsu Ken-ichi 
Published: April 2003

<i>Background:</i> Elderly people frequently have symptoms of fullness and appetite loss due to impaired gastric motor activity. These symptoms may cause malnutrition, immunosuppression and other complications. <i>Objective:</i> The effects of aging and daily activity on gastric motility in the elderly were investigated by electrogastrography and the <sup>13</sup>C-acetate breath test. <i>Methods:</i> We enrolled seven active elderly subjects (active elderly group), seven elderly subjects staying at a geriatric facility who had reduced mental and physical capacities (inactive elderly group) and seven healthy young volunteers (young group). Electrogastrography was recorded before and after ingestion of a <sup>13</sup>C-acetate-mixed liquid meal. Expired air was sampled every 10 min after the meal to measure the <sup>13</sup>CO<sub>2</sub> concentration. <i>Results:</i> The ratio of the incidence of the 3-cpm wave (gastric intrinsic frequency) during the postprandial period compared to the fasting state was reduced in both elderly groups compared to young subjects, and the reduction was greater in the inactive elderly than in the active elderly group. The ratio of the amplitude of the peak frequency during the postprandial period to that in the fasting state (power ratio) was also lower in the elderly groups. The time of peak <sup>13</sup>CO<sub>2</sub> expiration was delayed in the active elderly and more so in the inactive elderly group. <i>Conclusion:</i> Postprandial peristalsis and gastric contractile force are reduced in the elderly, and gastric emptying is delayed indicating a reduction in gastric motor activity.
Correlation between NADPH Oxidase and Protein Kinase C in the ROS Production by Human Granulocytes Related to Age
Authors: Martins Chaves Míriam , Prates Rodrigues Andreia Laura , Pereira dos Reis Ataualpa , Gerzstein Nestor Carlos , Nogueira-Machado José Augusto 
Published: April 2003

<i>Background:</i> Aging may be defined as gradual and progressive changes in an organism that increase the probability of death. Accumulating evidence now indicates that the sum of deleterious free radical reactions going on continuously throughout cells and tissues constitutes the aging process or is a major contributor to it. <i>Objective:</i> The aim of this paper was to study the correlation between NADPH oxidase and protein kinase C (PKC) in the reactive oxygen species (ROS) production related to age. <i>Methods:</i> The age-induced ROS generation was studied in healthy subjects ranging in age from 20 to 80 years, divided into six age groups: (1) 20–29, (2) 30–39, (3) 40–49, (4) 50–59, (5) 60–69, and (6) 70–80 years. The ROS were quantified using a chemiluminescence assay (luminol dependent) and the results expressed as RLU/s at maximum peak and total chemiluminescence (integral under the curve RLU/s). <i>Results:</i> Our results demonstrate a significant increase of the ROS production from 40 years of age (age groups 3–6). In the age groups 1 and 2, we did not observe a significant difference (p > 0.05). These data suggest an increase of the ROS production from 40 to 49 years of age which may be induced by the PKC activity. The selective PKC inhibitor (calphostin C) abrogated the stimulatory effect of phorbol-12,13-dibutyrate on the ROS production. However, the NADPH oxidase inhibitor diphenylene iodonium did not inhibit the total ROS production by granulocytes in relation to age. <i>Conclusions:</i> These data suggest a correlation between age-related PKC activity, NADPH oxidase phosphorylation, and ROS production. The above correlations between unspecific and inflammatory responses related to age are discussed.
An Epidemiological Genetic Study of Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease in Western Japan
Authors: Kurihara Saiko , Adachi Yoshiki , Wada Kenji , Awaki Etsuko , Harada Hideaki , Nakashima Kenji 
Published: April 2003

We identify the prevalence and genetic features of Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT) in Yonago and Sakaiminato, western Japan. From information in registered records and questionnaires, definite or candidate CMT patients were examined. Eleven families with 19 patients (7 female and 12 male) were identified and the prevalence was 10.8 per 100,000 in April 2000. Eleven patients in 6 families showed a Thr124Met mutation of the MPZ gene, in 2 families duplication of the PMP22 gene was suggested and no abnormalities were found in 2 families. To identify the occurrence of mildly affected CMT, the exhaustive region-matched and family study was necessary.
Pancreatic Tuberculosis: Still a Histopathological Diagnosis
Authors: Chaudhary Adarsh , Negi Sanjay S. , Sachdev Ajay K. , Gondal Ranjana 
Published: April 2003

<i>Background:</i> Pancreatic tuberculosis is usually unsuspected as it can present in various forms. Though an uncommon disease, once diagnosed it is potentially curable. <i>Patients and Methods:</i> Retrospective review of the records of 9 patients with histologically proven tuberculosis of the pancreas. <i>Results:</i> In none of the 9 patients was a preoperative diagnosis of tuberculosis possible. The diagnoses considered included: pancreatic cancer (n = 5); acute pseudocyst (n = 1); pancreatic abscess (n = 1); chronic pancreatitis with pancreatic head mass (n = 1), and carcinoma of the colon causing massive lower gastrointestinal bleeding (n = 1). All the patients underwent surgery. The diagnosis of tuberculosis was confirmed by histopathological examination of biopsy specimens obtained at the time of laparotomy. One patient died, the remaining patients received antitubercular therapy and are doing well at a median follow-up period of 26 months. <i>Conclusion:</i> In view of the nonspecific and variable clinical presentation and atypical radiological signs, a clinical diagnosis of pancreatic tuberculosis is usually not possible. Therefore there should be a high index of suspicion for this disease in young patients residing in endemic areas. Our experience highlights the importance of performing biopsy in apparently inoperable pancreatic mass lesions.
Heterogeneity of <i>O</i><sup>6</sup>-Alkylguanine-DNA Alkyltransferase Activity in Colorectal Cancer: Implications for Treatment
Authors: Lees Nicholas P. , Harrison Kathryn L. , Hill Elizabeth , Hall C. Nicholas , Povey Andrew C. , Margison Geoffrey P. 
Published: April 2003

<i>Objectives:</i> MGMT (<i>O</i><sup>6</sup>-alkylguanine-DNA alkyltransferase) reverses the carcinogenic, mutagenic and cytotoxic effects of alkylating agents. Measurement of MGMT activity in tumours might thus be of use in selecting those patients with colorectal cancer who may be sensitive to adjuvant alkylating agent therapy. The aim of this study was to assess whether measurement of MGMT activity in a single tumour biopsy is representative of the whole tumour. <i>Methods:</i> Multiple symmetrically spaced biopsies were taken from colorectal cancers obtained from 9 patients. MGMT activity was then measured in cell-free extracts by quantifying the transfer of [<sup>3</sup>H]methyl group from calf thymus DNA methylated in vitro with <i>N</i>-nitroso-<i>N</i>-[<sup>3</sup>H]-methylurea to the MGMT protein. <i>Results:</i> MGMT activity was detected in all tumour samples with the activity ranging between 3.6 and 36.2 fmol/µg DNA and 202–1,986 fmol/mg protein. Heterogeneity in MGMT activity (ratio of maximum/minimum MGMT levels per tumour) varied between 1.3 and 5.4. <i>Conclusions:</i> Measurement of MGMT activity in a single biopsy is not necessarily indicative of the level throughout the tumour. The response of colorectal cancers to alkylating agent treatment is likely to be non-uniform both within the tumour and between patients.
Influence of Changes in Dietary Fatty Acids during Pregnancy on Placental and Fetal Fatty Acid Profile in the Rat
Authors: Amusquivar Encarnación , Herrera Emilio 
Published: April 2003

To determine whether the composition of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) could be modified in the fetus by maternal dietary fatty acids, pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats were fed semipurified diets that differed only in the non-vitamin lipid component. The diets contained either 10 g palm, sunflower, olive or fish oil (FOD)/100 g diet. A total of 5–6 rats were studied in each group. At day 20 of gestation, corresponding to 1.5 days prior parturition, the fatty acids in maternal adipose tissue were closely related to the fatty acid composition in the corresponding diet. An important proportion of arachidonic acid (AA) appeared in maternal liver and plasma, although it was lower in the FOD than in the other groups. Except for saturated fatty acids, the proportion of individual fatty acids in the placenta correlated linearly with that in maternal plasma. Also, PUFA in fetal plasma and liver showed significant correlations with PUFA in maternal plasma. Again, AA showed the lowest proportion in the plasma and liver of the FOD group. Therefore, the maternal dietary fatty acid composition influences maternal and fetal plasma and tissue composition, and an increase in dietary ω–3 fatty acids decreases the amount of AA in maternal and fetal tissues.
Asymptomatic Massive Hypertriglyceridemia in an Octogenarian
Authors: Cicero Arrigo F.G. , Panourgia Maria Panagiota , Nascetti Simona , Sangiorgi Zina , Gaddi Antonio 
Published: April 2003

<i>Objective:</i> To report the case of an 85-year-old man with asymptomatic massive hypertriglyceridemia (MHTG). <i>Clinical Presentation and Intervention:</i> Our case was a non-smoker, healthy 85-year-old Caucasian male, with no excessive alcohol intake and no evidence of an excessive sedentary lifestyle, body mass index = 23.2 kg/m<sup>2</sup>, BP = 125/85 mm Hg and plasma triglyceride (TG) >1,000 mg/dl. The MHTG was an incidental finding at the age of 70. He had no cardiovascular disease, xanthomas, xanthelasmas or keratic precipitate. During the last 15 years, his average TG plasma levels showed a significant variability independent of specific diet treatment and fibrate therapy. Liver ultrasound examination excluded hepatomegaly and fatty degeneration. Carotid artery ultrasound showed only intimal thickening in both carotid bifurcations. <i>Conclusion:</i> In this patient, MHTG had been silent for many years, with no evidence of coronary heart disease and liver fatty degeneration, both typical complications present in MHTG subjects with low high-density lipoprotein. Hence, this case must be considered as a rarity.
The Trough Effect: Implications for Speech Motor Programming
Authors: Lindblom Björn , Sussman Harvey M. , Modarresi Golnaz , Burlingame Elizabeth 
Published: April 2003

AbstractWhile the existence of the trough effect is unquestioned, its theoretical significance is unknown. A multifaceted instrumental approach – spectrographic, cineradiographic, and vocal tract modeling – was used to document the trough effect in open (V.CV) and closed (VC.V) syllable forms using a symmetrical vowel context surrounding labial stops. Collectively, the results document the trough phenomeon as a momentary deactivation of tongue and/or lip movement after V1 and continuing into the stop closure. This empirical event suggests a segment-by-segment activation pattern as opposed to a diphthongal vowel-to-vowel trajectory with an independent and superimposed consonantal gesture. Quantitative models of VCV coarticulation must incorporate the trough effect in order to more effectively capture the kinematic properties of speech.
Comparison of Conjunctival and Nasal Provocation Test in Allergic Rhinitis to House Dust Mite
Authors: Riechelmann Herbert , Epple Barbara , Gropper Gunther 
Published: April 2003

<i>Background:</i> Nasal allergen provocation tests (NPTs) are useful in confirming the diagnosis of allergic rhinitis, if data obtained by clinical history, skin tests and specific IgE determinations are not conclusive. Since NPTs are laborious, conjunctival provocation tests (CPTs) appear as an attractive alternative. The concordance of CPTs and NPTs with house dust mite allergen extract in sensitized and nonsensitized subjects should be evaluated. <i>Methods:</i> 50 otherwise healthy subjects with self-reported house dust mite allergy and positive skin prick tests and serum specific IgE to <i>Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus</i> and 45 sex- and age-matched healthy controls without allergic symptoms were included. For NPTs, 100 µl allergen extract [10,000 allergy units (AU/ml)] were applied to the less congested nasal cavity. A clinical symptom score and active anterior rhinomanometry were employed to assess the response. For CPTs, 50 µl low-concentrated <i>D. pteronyssinus</i> extract (1,000 AU/ml), and if negative, 50 µl normally concentrated extract (10,000 AU/ml) were applied to the lower conjunctival sac. The response was assessed employing clinical symptom scores. <i>Results:</i> NPTs and CPTs yielded concordant results in 90% of the subjects successfully tested (Cohen’s kappa = 0.78, p < 0.0001). The diagnostic efficacy of the CPT, with the NPT as the reference method, was 89%, whether or not conjunctival symptoms had been reported in addition to rhinitis symptoms. Both techniques were judged almost equally uncomfortable. <i>Conclusion:</i> CPTs are an acceptable alternative to NPTs in patients with allergic rhinitis to house dust mite, even if they have no conjunctival symptoms.
Eluate Derived by Extracorporal Antibody-Based Immunoadsorption Elevates the Cytosolic Ca<sup>2+</sup> Concentration in Podocytes via B<sub>2</sub> Kinin Receptors
Authors: Fischer Karl-Georg , Huber Tobias Bruno , Henger Anna , Fink Edwin , Schwertfeger Eckhard , Rump Lars Christian , Pavenstädt Hermann 
Published: April 2003

<i>Background/Aim:</i> Patients with idiopathic focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) often develop a recurrence of the disease after kidney transplantation. In a number of FSGS patients, plasmapheresis and immunoadsorption procedures have been shown to transiently reduce proteinuria and are thought to do this by eliminating a circulating factor. Direct cellular effects of eluates from immunoadsorption procedures on podocytes, the primary target of injury in FSGS, have not yet been reported. <i>Methods:</i> Eluates were derived from antibody-based immunoadsorption of a patient suffering from primary FSGS, a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus, and a healthy volunteer. The cytosolic free Ca<sup>2+</sup> concentration ([Ca<sup>2+</sup>]<sub>i</sub>) of differentiated podocytes was measured by single-cell fura-2 microfluorescence measurements. Free and total immunoreactive kinin levels were measured by radioimmunoassay. <i>Results:</i> FSGS eluates increased the [Ca<sup>2+</sup>]<sub>i</sub> levels concentration dependently (EC<sub>50</sub> 0.14 mg/ml; n = 3–19). 1 mg/ml eluate increased the [Ca<sup>2+</sup>]<sub>i</sub> values reversibly from 82 ± 12 to 1,462 ± 370 nmol/l, and then they returned back to 100 ± 16 nmol/l (n = 19). The eluate-induced increase of [Ca<sup>2+</sup>]<sub>i</sub> consisted of an initial Ca<sup>2+</sup> peak followed by a Ca<sup>2+</sup> plateau which depended on the extracellular Ca<sup>2+</sup> concentration. The eluate-induced increase of [Ca<sup>2+</sup>]<sub>i</sub> was inhibited by the specific B<sub>2</sub> kinin receptor antagonist Hoe 140 in a concentration-dependent manner (IC<sub>50</sub> 2.47 nmol/l). In addition, prior repetitive application of bradykinin desensitized the effect of eluate on [Ca<sup>2+</sup>]<sub>i</sub>. A colonic epithelial cell line not reacting to bradykinin did not respond to eluate either (n = 6). Similar to FSGS eluates, the eluate preparations of both the systemic lupus patient and the healthy volunteer led to a biphasic, concentration-dependent [Ca<sup>2+</sup>]<sub>i</sub> increase in podocytes which again was inhibited by Hoe 140. Free kinins were detected in all eluate preparations. <i>Conclusion:</i> The procedure of antibody-based immunoadsorption leads to kinin in the eluate which elevates the [Ca<sup>2+</sup>]<sub>i</sub> level of podocytes via B<sub>2</sub> kinin receptors.
Long-Term Administration of Intravaginal Dehydroepiandrosterone on Regression of Low-Grade Cervical Dysplasia – A Pilot Study
Authors: Suh-Burgmann Elizabeth , Sivret Julia , Duska Linda R. , Del Carmen Marcella , Seiden Michael V. 
Published: April 2003

Although many dysplastic cervical lesions regress spontaneously, treatment is common due to concern for progression. Lesions persist or progress in women whose immune systems are unable to clear infection by human papillomavirus (HPV). Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is an adrenal steroid that has both immune modulatory and tumor inhibitory activity. A pilot study was conducted to examine the feasibility, safety and potential efficacy of intravaginal DHEA in women with low-grade cervical dysplasia. Twelve women with low-grade dysplasia, confirmed by colposcopic exam, were given 150 mg of intravaginal micronized DHEA daily for up to 6 months. Follow-up evaluations of the cervix were done at 3 and 6 months of use. DHEA, DHEA-S, androstenedione and testosterone levels were also measured. By the end of the study period, 10 of the 12 women (83%) had no evidence of dysplasia; the remaining 2 had normal colposcopic exams but cytology showing atypical cells of undetermined significance. There were no serious side effects. Androstenedione levels were elevated at 3 months, whereas testosterone levels were unchanged over the course of treatment. The results suggest that intravaginal DHEA is safe and well tolerated and may promote regression of low-grade cervical lesions. Further study is needed to establish efficacy.