bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Longitudinal Study of Blood Pressure and Stroke in over 37,000 People in China
Authors: Fang Xiang-Hua , Longstreth Jr W.T. , Li Shi-Chuo , Kronmal Richard A. , Cheng Xue-Ming , Wang Wen-Zhi , Wu Shengping , Du Xiao-Li , Dai Xiu-Ying 
Published: April 2003

As part of a longitudinal study performed in urban China, 37,655 subjects were evaluated for stroke risk factors, including having their blood pressure measured in a standard fashion. The cohort was followed for 3.5 years during which time 427 subjects experienced incident strokes – 221 ischemic, 203 hemorrhagic, and 3 undefined. Both systolic and diastolic blood pressure were significantly related to risk of stroke and stroke type. Associations were stronger for systolic than diastolic blood pressure. These results emphasize the importance of systolic blood pressure, as opposed to diastolic, as a risk factor for stroke. In this study, the risk of stroke is increased by about 25% with each 10 mm Hg increase in systolic blood pressure.
Acetylsalicylic Acid and Microembolic Events Detected by Transcranial Doppler in Symptomatic Arterial Stenoses
Authors: Goertler Michael , Blaser Till , Krueger Stephan , Lutze Gerd , Wallesch Claus-Werner 
Published: April 2003

<i>Background:</i> In patients with symptomatic carotid artery stenosis, high-intensity transient signals detected by transcranial Doppler (TCD) have been related to particulate microemboli originating at the stenotic lesion. The occurrence of these microembolic events within the Doppler spectrum should be influenced by antithrombotic agents of proven efficacy in these patients mainly by reducing cerebral embolism. <i>Methods:</i> Seventy-four of 192 consecutive patients with symptomatic arterial stenosis in the anterior circulation and clinical symptoms within the last 30 days underwent 1-hour bilateral TCD monitoring. Patients were selected, if they presented temporal bone windows enabling transcranial insonation, revealed normal Doppler CO<sub>2</sub> test excluding hemodynamic impairment, had not received antithrombotic therapy other than acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) before sonographic examination, and gave informed consent to 1-hour monitoring which could be performed immediately on admission/presentation of the patient at the Department of Neurology. <i>Results:</i> Microembolic events were detected in 38 patients (51%). The proportion of patients with events among 26 patients without antithrombotic medication was 73% as compared with 40% in 48 patients receiving ASA at the time of TCD monitoring (p = 0.023). Multivariate analysis including time from ischemia to TCD, presence and start of ASA prevention, degree and localization of stenosis, and presence of a single or recurrent ischemia revealed that absence of an ASA prevention (odds ratio OR 7.1, 95% confidence interval CI 1.6–31.4, p = 0.010), recurrent ischemic events (OR 7.1, 95% CI 1.6–32.7, p = 0.011), and extracranial localization of the stenosis (OR 3.8, 95% CI 1.1–13.2, p = 0.038) were independent predictors for microembolic events. <i>Conclusion: </i>In patients with symptomatic arterial stenosis, the absence of an ASA medication is associated with the occurrence of TCD-detected microembolic events, suggesting a relation between these events and ASA-sensitive microemboli from the stenotic lesion.
Elevated Levels of Anti-Heat Shock Protein Antibodies in Patients with Cerebral Ischemia
Authors: Gromadzka Grażyna , Zielińska Justyna , Ryglewicz Danuta , Fiszer Urszula , Członkowska Anna 
Published: April 2003

One of the important mechanisms involved in the development of vascular lesions leading to ischemic stroke could be an immune response to heat shock proteins (hsp). For carotid atherosclerosis and myocardial infarction, an association with an increase in anti-hsp 65 antibodies has been demonstrated. The aim of our study was (1) to investigate whether ischemic stroke is associated with a humoral immune response to hsp; (2) to study the connection between anti-hsp antibodies and other stroke risk factors; (3) to estimate if the elevated levels of anti-hsp antibodies could be an independent risk factor for stroke. We examined 180 patients (in the first 48 h after stroke onset) and 64 age-matched healthy controls. The levels of IgG and IgM antibodies to hsp 65 and 70 were measured by ELISA. Ischemic stroke was connected with a significant elevation of anti-hsp 65 and anti-hsp 70 antibody levels (IgG and IgM) compared with controls (p < 0.0001). The multifactorial logistic regression analysis showed that increased levels of anti-hsp 65 and anti-hsp 70 IgG antibodies are independent risk factors for stroke. Our results suggest that humoral immunity to hsp is common in stroke patients and that elevated levels of anti-hsp antibodies could be triggering factors for stroke.
Low-Dose Flutamide (125 mg/Day) as Maintenance Therapy in the Treatment of Hirsutism
Authors: Venturoli Stefano , Paradisi Roberto , Bagnoli Anna , Colombo Filippo Maria , Ravaioli Barbara , Vianello Federico , Mancini Fulvia , Gualerzi Beatrice , Porcu Eleonora , Seracchioli Renato 
Published: April 2003

<i>Objective: </i>To evaluate the safety and efficacy of a low dose of flutamide (125 mg/day) in maintaining the clinical results already obtained using a higher dose (250 mg/day), in women suffering from hirsutism. <i>Method: </i>Forty-three women suffering from hirsutism of varying origin received 250 mg/day of flutamide as an initial treatment for 12 months and, subsequently, 125 mg/day of flutamide for an additional 12 months as a maintenance treatment. Hirsutism was evaluated by the Ferriman-Gallwey score, and hair diameter and hair growth rate were determined by a special image analysis processor. Biochemical, clinical and hormonal parameters were evaluated in basal conditions and every 2–6 months. <i>Results: </i>The significant decrease in the hirsutism score, hair diameter and hair growth rate during the initial treatment period was confirmed at the end of the maintenance treatment period. Androgen levels decreased up to the end of the initial treatment period and partially decreased during the maintenance treatment. During the initial treatment period, 4 subjects showed an increase of aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase and dropped out. During the maintenance treatment period, no side effects or complications were observed. <i>Conclusion: </i>Satisfactory management of hirsutism with flutamide seems to be represented by an initial treatment period using 250 mg/day to achieve satisfactory results, followed by a long maintenance treatment period using 125 mg/day.
Regulation of Prolactin Secretion by Dopamine at the Level of the Hypothalamus in the Turkey
Authors: Youngren Orlan , Chaiseha Yupaporn , Al-Zailaie Khaled , Whiting Stephen , Kang Seong Wook , El Halawani Mohamed 
Published: April 2003

Avian prolactin (PRL) secretion is regulated by vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) neurons residing in the infundibular nuclear complex (INF) of the hypothalamus. This VIPergic activity is modulated by stimulatory dopaminergic inputs. Dynorphin, serotonin (5-HT), dopamine (DA) and VIP all appear to stimulate PRL secretion along a hypothalamic pathway, expressing ĸ opioid, serotonergic, dopaminergic and VIPergic receptors in succession, with the VIPergic system as the final mediator. Electrical stimulation (ES) within the turkey hypothalamus at the level of the medial preoptic area (POA), the ventromedial hypothalamic nucleus (VMN), the INF or the median eminence (ME) results in the release of PRL. When the selective D<sub>1</sub> DA receptor antagonist SCH-23390 HCl was infused intraventricularly at the rate of 10 nmol/min, ES in the POA or VMN was unable to increase PRL levels, while ES in the INF and ME did increase PRL to the same level as that of controls. These results were interpreted to suggest that the D<sub>1</sub> DA receptors involved in PRL release lie caudally to the VMN and dorsally to the INF. Bilateral microinjections (50 ng) of the D<sub>1</sub> DA receptor agonist SKF-38393 HCl into the POA or VMN failed to produce any increase in PRL, while similar microinjections in the INF increased PRL significantly within 15 min. Bilateral microinjections of the D<sub>1</sub> DA antagonist (50 ng) into the INF blocked the rise in PRL associated with ES in the POA. Bilateral microinjections of a D<sub>2</sub> DA antagonist (50 ng) into the INF failed to block PRL secretion induced by ES in the POA. Tract tracing, using double-label immunocytochemistry, revealed the presence of a monosynaptic dopaminergic pathway projecting from the POA to the INF. These data imply that the only hypothalamic D<sub>1</sub> DA receptors involved in the regulation of avian PRL secretion are those residing within the INF in the same region as the VIP neurons known to be involved in PRL secretion.
Plasma Antidiuretic Hormone Levels in Children with Spina bifida
Authors: Ferrara Pietro , D’Aleo Carmen , Ruggiero Antonio , Paolini Paoletti Fabrizia , Chiozza Maria Laura , Plebani Mario , Caione Paolo , Del Gado Roberto , Salvaggio Elio 
Published: April 2003

<i>Purpose:</i> Urological management of spina bifida patients is controversial. The goals of therapy of neurogenic bladder are continence, prevention of infections and preservation of urinary tract. Desmopressin has been recently used in a spina bifida population that is dry during the day (daytime continence was achieved with clean intermittent catheterization and anticholinergics) but wet at night. The aim of this study was to assess plasma antidiuretic hormone (ADH) levels in these children. <i>Materials and Methods:</i> The study included 24 patients, 11 males and 13 females (mean age 6.4 years) referred to the Spina Bifida Centre of the Catholic University of Rome, and 57 normal age-matched controls. Morning (07.30–08.00 h) plasma ADH levels were measured using a specific radioimmunoassay. <i>Results:</i> Plasma ADH levels (normal range 5–11 µg/l) did not differ between spina bifida population and healthy controls. Serum ADH had a mean of 6.8 µg/l in affected children and a mean of 7.4 µg/l in the controls. <i>Conclusion:</i> We conclude that the use of desmopressin in children with spina bifida should be reserved only in patients with decreased secretion of ADH, or may be useful in patients with persistent nocturnal incontinence to reduce night wetting. Therefore, research with a larger population is needed.
Evaluation of Subcutaneous Tissue Gases and pH during Induction of Acidosis and Alkalosis
Authors: Mellström Å. , Jedlinska Barbara , Hartmann M. , Jönsson K. 
Published: April 2003

Peripheral tissue oxygen utilization was studied during hypoxic-induced acidosis and sodium bicarbonate-induced alkalosis in 8 domestic pigs by measurements of subcutaneous oxygen tension (P<sub>sc</sub>O<sub>2</sub>), carbon dioxide tension (P<sub>sc</sub>CO<sub>2</sub>) and pH (pH<sub>sc</sub>) in relation to central hemodynamic parameters and oxygenation. Hypoxic-induced acidosis resulted in a decrease in P<sub>sc</sub>CO<sub>2</sub> and arterial oxygen tension (P<sub>a</sub>O<sub>2</sub>) to one third of baseline values (p < 0.05), an increase in P<sub>sc</sub>CO<sub>2</sub> and arterial carbon dioxide tension (P<sub>a</sub>CO<sub>2</sub>) from 41 to 55 and 34 to 39 mm Hg, respectively (p < 0.05), and a decrease in pH<sub>sc</sub> from 7.47 to 7.30 (p < 0.05). P<sub>sc</sub>O<sub>2</sub> and P<sub>a</sub>O<sub>2</sub> increased during reversal of hypoxia and infusion of bicarbonate (p < 0.05), without reaching baseline values. In parallel P<sub>sc</sub>CO<sub>2</sub> decreased and pH<sub>sc</sub> increased but changes lagged behind changes in blood gases. Alkalosis established by further infusion of bicarbonate resulted in a decrease in P<sub>a</sub>O<sub>2</sub> to 62 mm Hg whereas P<sub>sc</sub>O<sub>2</sub> remained below baseline values (p < 0.05). Correction of oxygen utilization in the subcutaneous tissue as measured by the markers P<sub>sc</sub>CO<sub>2</sub> and pH<sub>sc</sub> is slower than indicated by changes in tissue oxygen tension, blood gases and pH. Overcompensation of acidosis with bicarbonate resulting in alkalosis impairs oxygenation.
Cytokine Profile of Serum and Bronchoalveolar Lavage Fluids following Thoracic Esophageal Cancer Surgery
Authors: Sato N. , Koeda K. , Kimura Y. , Ikeda K. , Ogawa M. , Saito K. , Endo S. 
Published: April 2003

<i>Objectives:</i> The body’s response to stress is comprised of two opposing reactions, namely inflammation and immunosuppression. The balance between these two reactions not only changes over time, but also varies among different cells or organs. Limited information is available regarding the cytokine balance of circulating blood and inflammatory sites after thoracic surgical stress. <i>Design:</i> The subjects of the present study were 10 patients undergoing esophageal cancer surgery which requires thoracolaparotomic manipulation. The postoperative levels of interleukin (IL)-8, IL-10, IL-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1ra) and soluble tumor necrosis factor receptor I (sTNF-RI) in bronchoalveolar lavage fluids (BALFs) and peripheral blood were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The absolute concentration of cytokines in lower respiratory tract ([cytokine]<sub>LRT</sub>) was estimated by using the ratio of urea concentration in BALF and serum. <i>Results:</i> The levels of these cytokines in peripheral blood peaked within 24 h of start of the surgery (IL-8 85.6 ± 29.8 pg/ml; IL-10 65.1 ± 10.6 pg/ml; IL-1ra 2,807.8 ± 652.8 pg/ml, and sTNF-RI 3,996.3 ± 380.1 pg/ml). The level of [IL-8]<sub>LRT</sub> immediately after surgery was approximately 20 times higher than that in peripheral blood, and the level of [IL-1ra]<sub>LRT</sub> was approximately 4 times higher. In contrast, the level of [IL-10]<sub>LRT</sub> immediately after surgery was comparable to that in peripheral blood, but the level of [sTNF RI]<sub>LRT</sub> immediately after surgery was approximately one fifth of that in peripheral blood. <i>Conclusions:</i> The balance between pro- and anti-inflammatory reactions varies from one part of the body to the next, and changes over time after surgery. The profile of stress-induced pro-inflammatory cytokines and anti-inflammatory cytokines should be analyzed further to establish appropriate and effective cytokine modulatory therapeutic approaches.
Interspecific Variation of Scent-Marking Behaviour in Wild Tamarins, Saguinus mystax and Saguinus fuscicollis
Authors: Heymann Eckhard W. 
Published: April 2003

The scent-marking behaviour of sympatric moustached, Saguinus mystax, and saddle-back tamarins, Saguinus fuscicollis, was compared in order to explore interspecific differences and potential sources of variation. The author examined basic patterns of scent marking (types, intensity, complexity), substrate use (type, orientation, height), and social patterning of scent marking in three groups of S. mystax and one group of S. fuscicollis at the Estación Biológica Quebrada Blanco, Peruvian Amazonia. S. mystax and S. fuscicollis differed significantly in the relative frequency of different types, and in the intensity and complexity of scent marking. Only S. fuscicollis showed allomarking. They also differed significantly in the type, orientation and height of substrates used for scent marking which corresponded to general differences in substrate use. In S. fuscicollis, but very rarely in S. mystax, two or more group members marked the same site sequentially or simultaneously. ‘Collective scent marking’, i.e. simultaneous scent marking by most or all group members, occurred only in S. fuscicollis. Since both tamarin species live sympatrically in mixed-species groups, ecological factors are unlikely to account for the differences found in scent-marking behaviour (except for differences in substrate use). They probably relate to as yet unknown differences in social and reproductive strategies of the two species.
Recombinant versus Urinary Follicle-Stimulating Hormone in the Low-Dose Regimen in Anovulatory Patients with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Safer and More Effective Treatment
Authors: Fulghesu Anna Maria , Apa Rosanna , Belosi Chiara , Ciampelli Mario , Selvaggi Jr. Luigi , Cucinelli Francesco , Caruso Alessandro , Mancuso Salvatore , Lanzone Antonio 
Published: April 2003

<i>Background:</i> We studied polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) in fifty 25- to 37-year-old women who failed to conceive with clomiphene citrate treatment. <i>Methods:</i> Twenty patients were submitted to treatment with low-dose (75 IU) urinary FSH (uFSH) in order to achieve ovulation and 30 patients were treated with recombinant FSH (rFSH) according to the same protocol. <i>Results:</i> Ovulation was achieved in 75 and 97% of the cycles after uFSH and rFSH, respectively (p < 0.02). The length of treatment needed to achieve ovulation, the number of ampules given and dose per kilogram were significantly lower in the rFSH group. Mild ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) was observed in 9 uFSH cycles, whereas only 1 of the women treated with rFSH developed an OHSS (1/38 vs. 9/36; p < 0.01). <i>Conclusion:</i> rFSH is more efficient than uFSH in inducing ovulation in PCOS patients. The high prevalence of ovulatory cycles using a lower dose guaranteed greater safety of treatment and significantly reduced the incidence of OHSS.
Characterization of DNA Binding Protein of Porcine Adenovirus Type 3
Authors: Zhou Yan , Pyne Caron , Tikoo Suresh K. 
Published: April 2003

To identify and characterize the protein encoded by the E2A region of porcine adenovirus (PAV)-3, DNA sequence coding for a portion (amino acids 102–457) of the DNA binding protein (DBP) open reaching frame was cloned and expressed in <i>Escherichia coli</i> as a fusion protein with glutathione S-transferase protein of <i>Schistosoma japonica</i>. The affinity-purified fusion protein was used to immunize rabbits. Immunoprecipitation/Western blot analysis demonstrated that the antisera specifically recognized a protein of 50 kD in PAV-3-infected cells. Immunoperoxidase staining detected the DBP protein predominantly in the nucleus of the cells. Western blot analysis demonstrated that DBP was detected as early as 6 h after infection and remained detectable throughout the infection. Based on these results, a novel assay for quantitation of PAV-3 was established. The assay is less time consuming and can be performed in different porcine cells. In addition, virus titers determined by this assay are comparable to the standard plaque assay.
CT-Based Navigation Systems for Intraoperative Radiotherapy Using the Afterloading-Flab Technique
Authors: Tonus Carolin , Debertshäuser Detlev , Strassmann Gerd , Kolotas Christos , Walter Stephan , Zamboglou Nikolaos , Nier Helmut 
Published: April 2003

<i>Introduction: </i>The fact that conventional intraoperative radiotherapy does not give the opportunity to exactly document the radiation volume applied and the dose distribution has been criticized in many ways. We would like to introduce a system for surgical navigation and documentation of flap positioning in intraoperative brachytherapy using the afterloading flap technique. <i>Methods: </i>Our system consists of an electromagnetic 3D-digitizer and a PC workstation. Spiral CT scans of the tumor region taken preoperatively are used for navigation and documentation of flap positioning, analogous to the procedure in neuronavigation. Registration is done via an external reference system which is attached to the iliac bone of the patient. <i>Results: </i>The mean accuracy of digitalization of the 100 spheres in a pelvis model is about 2.6 ± 0.5 to 3.7 ± 9.9 mm. The mean navigation accuracy is 2.4 ± 0.8 to 3.3 ± 0.8 mm. These figures correspond to the clinical experience of our surgeons. <i>Discussion: </i>The optimization of flab positioning by CT-guided navigation and the more accurate documentation of the dose volume and distribution in the patient is an important step on the way to improving the quality of individual radiation therapy. We are of the opinion that surgical navigation in the pelvic region should be subject to additional investigation in order to optimize the procedure.
Effect of Acute Exercise on Plasma Nitric Oxide Level in Humans
Authors: Franco L. , Doria D. , Mattiucci F. 
Published: April 2003

<i>Objective:</i> Since nitric oxide (NO) plays an important role in regulating vascular tone and changes in the plasma concentration of the end product of NO (nitrite/nitrate) have been observed during exercise, we studied the influence of acute exercise on nitrite/nitrate plasma levels in a group of semiprofessional football players and in younger and older sedentary subjects. <i>Methods:</i> The subjects exercised for 10 min on a cycle ergometer and blood samples were obtained at rest and immediately after exercise. Plasma samples were analysed for nitrite/nitrate. <i>Results:</i> The acute physical exercise induced a significant increase in nitrite/nitrate plasma levels both in sedentary and in active subjects. No difference was evident between the younger and older subjects, both in the basal level and after exercise, indicating that the changes could not be due to age. The higher basal plasma level of nitrite/nitrate observed in the active subjects compared with sedentary groups indicates that the state of physical conditioning had an effect on resting NO concentration. <i>Conclusion:</i> It seems that either acute exercise, even for a short time, or training can induce an increase in circulating NO.
Urinary Composition and Lithogenic Risk in Normal Subjects following Oligomineral versus Bicarbonate-Alkaline High Calcium Mineral Water Intake
Authors: Coen Giorgio , Sardella Daniela , Barbera Giovanni , Ferrannini Michele , Comegna Carmela , Ferazzoli Flora , Dinnella Angela , D’Anello Emanuela , Simeoni Piergiorgio 
Published: April 2003

<i>Objective:</i> A normal dietary calcium intake to reduce intestinal oxalate absorption is essential to avoid recurrence of calcium oxalate stone formation. It is also important in the prevention of osteopenia in idiopathic hypercalciuria. The calcium content of waters used for hydration may vary from very low to relatively high and is an important factor in prevention or additional risk of stone formation. Therefore, the effect of drinking mineral waters of different calcium concentrations on lithogenic risk factors was studied in normal volunteers. <i>Materials and Methods:</i> Normal subjects were divided into two groups of 11 and 10 individuals each. All followed a prescribed diet with an average calcium content of 800 mg/day. The water intake for hydration consisted of 2 liters of an oligomineral water with a low calcium content, <20 mg/l (group A) or of a bicarbonate alkaline water with a high calcium content, 370 mg/l (group B). <i>Results:</i> Diuresis increased similarly in both groups; urine calcium increased by about 80 mg/day in group B. A rise in urine oxalate was observed in both groups, along with the increased urine volume. Osmolar excretion increased in group B; urine osmolality decreased significantly only in group A. In spite of the increase in calciuria in group B, Ca/citrate ratio was constant, due to an increase in citrate excretion. Inter-group differences in terms of activity products of calcium phosphate, calculated according with Tiselius’s methods, were found. The differences in AP(CaP) index 1 and AP(CaP) index 2 were significant, with higher values in group B, who drank the bicarbonate alkaline mineral water. <i>Conclusions:</i> Increased water intake between meals to prevent renal stone recurrence should preferably be achieved with a relatively low calcium water and calcium-rich mineral waters should be avoided.