Rhythmic visual stimulation as a window into early brain development: A systematic review

Rhythmic visual stimulation (RVS), the periodic presentation of visual stimuli to elicit a rhythmic brain response, is increasingly applied to reveal insights into early neurocognitive development. Our systematic review identified 69 studies applying RVS in 0- to 6-year-olds. RVS has long been used to study the development of the visual system and applications have more recently been expanded to uncover higher cognitive functions in the developing brain, including overt and covert attention, face and object perception, numeral cognition, and predictive processing. These insights are owed to the unique benefits of RVS, such as the targeted frequency and stimulus-specific neural responses, as well as a remarkable signal-to-noise ratio. Yet, neural mechanisms underlying the RVS response are still poorly understood. We discuss critical challenges and avenues for future research, and the unique potentials the method holds. With this review, we provide a resource for researchers interested in the breadth of developmental RVS research and hope to inspire the future use of this cutting-edge method in developmental cognitive neuroscience.

Oxytocin but not naturally occurring variation in caregiver touch associates with infant social orienting

Caregiver touch is crucial for infants’ healthy development, but its role in shaping infant cognition has been relatively understudied. In particular, despite strong premises to hypothesize its function in directing infant attention to social information, little empirical evidence exists on the topic. In this study, we investigated the associations between naturally occurring variation in caregiver touch and infant social attention in a group of 6‐ to 13‐month‐old infants (n = 71). Additionally, we measured infant salivary oxytocin as a possible mediator of the effects of touch on infant social attention. The hypothesized effects were investigated both short term, with respect to touch observed during parent–infant interactions in the lab, and long term, with respect to parent‐reported patterns of everyday touching behaviors. We did not find evidence that caregiver touch predicts infant social attention or salivary oxytocin levels, short term or long term. However, we found that salivary oxytocin predicted infant preferential attention to faces relative to nonsocial objects, measured in an eye‐tracking task. Our findings confirm the involvement of oxytocin in social orienting in infancy, but raise questions regarding the possible environmental factors influencing the infant oxytocin system.

Allergic Rhinitis and House Dust Mite Sensitization Determine Persistence of Asthma in Children

OBJECTIVE

To specify clinical and immunological parameters of the mechanisms, which may lead to development of persistent asthma, or regression of the disease symptoms.

METHODS

Eighty children with childhood asthma, diagnosed in the past by using the modified Asthma Predicted Index (mAPI), were divided into two groups: remission group and persistent group. There were 3 study visits (baseline, at 6 mo, and at 12 mo). Clinical remission of asthma was defined as the absence of asthma symptoms for at least 12 mo without treatment. The patients could switch from one group to another during the 12 mo of follow-up. Clinical, inflammatory, and immunoregulatory predictors of asthma remission/persistence were analyzed.

RESULTS

The presence of mAPI criteria as well as house dust mite (HDM) allergy and allergic rhinitis at 7-10 y, were associated with a reduced prevalence of asthma remission. The increased eosinophil blood count in mAPI criteria was associated with a lower expression of CD25 positive cells. HDM allergy was associated with a higher fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) level (p = 0.0061) and higher expression of CD25CD71 (p = 0.0232). Allergic rhinitis was associated with a higher expression of PPAR (p = 0.0493) and CD25CD71 (p = 0.0198), and lower expression of glycoprotein A repetitions predominant (GARP).

CONCLUSIONS

Persistence of childhood asthma was largely determined by the presence of allergic rhinitis and sensitization to HDM. Additionally, API criteria but not immunoregulation processes, were related to asthma persistence.

Capturing touch in parent-infant interaction: A comparison of methods

Naturally occurring high levels of caregiver touch promote offspring development in many animal species. Yet, caregiver touch remains a relatively understudied topic in human development, possibly due to challenges of measuring this means of interaction. While parental reports (e.g., questionnaires, diaries) are easy to collect, they may be subject to biases and memory limitations. In contrast, observing touch in a short session of parent-child interaction in the lab may not be representative of touch interaction in daily life. In the present study, we compared parent reports (one-off questionnaires and diary) and observation-based methods in a sample of German 6- to 13-month-olds and their primary caregivers (n = 71). In an attempt to characterize touching behaviors across a broad range of contexts, we measured touch both during play and while the parent was engaged in another activity. We found that context affected both the quantity and types of touch used in interaction. Parent-reported touch was moderately associated with touch observed in parent-child interactions and more strongly with touch used during play. We conclude that brief one-off questionnaires are a good indicator of touch in parent-child interaction, yet they may be biased toward representing particular daily activities and particular types of touch.

Effectiveness of ongoing face-to-face anti-tobacco intervention in children with asthma

Background: Interventions to help parents quit smoking may yield important benefits for children with asthma. Children's exposure to environmental tobacco smoke can be measured by reporting of an adult in the household and testing the child's biomarker, e.g., cotinine. Objective: The aim of the study was to assess the effectiveness of "face-to-face" intervention carried out since 2016 in families with children diagnosed with asthma 3 years after beginning the anti-tobacco intervention. Methods: This study was a follow-up to an interventional study that assessed the effectiveness of direct patient education versus educational leaflets alone about parental tobacco smoking. The patients with asthma (ages 4-17 years) enrolled in our original intervention study conducted in 2016 were under the care of the allergy outpatient clinic. The active group was individually educated about the harmful effects of environmental tobacco smoke on their children. The control group included patients and parents, among whom only leaflets were distributed. After 3 years of ongoing intervention, in patients from both groups, exposure to tobacco smoking was evaluated with a questionnaire addressed to parents and/or caregivers and measurement of cotinine in children's urine. The forced expiratory volume in the first second of expiration and fractional exhaled nitric oxide levels were measured. Results: Seventy participants completed the study: 37 in the active group and 33 in the control group. In the active group, 27% of the parents quit smoking entirely compared with 9.4% of parents in the control group. In the group of active intervention, a significant decrease in the cotinine level (p < 0 .001) and the number of cigarettes smoked daily were observed (p < 0.001) 3 years after the active intervention compared with values right after the intervention. In the control group, there were no significant changes in the above-mentioned parameters. Conclusion: "Face-to-face" intervention among families with smokers were effective and lowered cotinine levels in children with asthma and the number of cigarettes smoked assessed 3 years after the intervention.

IL-33 is associated with allergy in children sensitized to the cat

BACKGROUND

Several studies suggest that early-life exposure to animal allergens constitutes a relevant risk factor for the development of allergic sensitization.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the present study was to determine the role of interleukin-33 in children sensitive to cat allergen with allergic rhinitis and/or asthma.

METHODS

The study included 51 children aged 5-18 years, both sexes, allergic to cats. Sensitization to cat allergen was confirmed by skin prick tests or specific IgE. Children were evaluated for the presence of bronchial asthma, atopic dermatitis, allergic rhinitis. A questionnaire evaluating the occurrence of allergic symptoms in children after contact with the cat and dog was performed. Mothers completed a questionnaire regarding cat exposure: during pregnancy and having a cat at home. A blood sample was taken from all children to measure the level of IL-33 in the serum.

RESULTS

Keeping a cat in the home, once in the past, or having a cat in the home during the mother's pregnancy, revealed a statistically significant relationship with IL-33 levels in the studied patients. Also, daily contact with a cat during pregnancy affected the level of IL-33. Higher levels of IL-33 were shown in people with hypersensitivity to cat and pollen allergens and cat and other animals. In patients with bronchial asthma higher levels of IL-33 were found than in patients without bronchial asthma.

CONCLUSIONS

Increased serum levels of IL-33 is related with keeping cats during pregnancy and in early childhood and can be associated with the development of asthma in children.

Vitamin D inhibits pro-inflammatory cytokines in the airways of cystic fibrosis patients infected by Pseudomonas aeruginosa- pilot study

Background

Vitamin D plays an important role in inflammatory responses after antigen exposure. Interleukin-23 (Il-23) promotes Il-17-dependent inflammation during Pseudomonas aeruginosa (P. aeruginosa) pulmonary infection. We aimed to compare the ability of calcitriol and cholecalciferol to modulate the inflammatory response of the CF airways infected with P. aeruginosa.

Methods

This was a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, cross-over trial. Twenty-three patients with CF (aged 6–19), chronically infected by P. aeruginosa were randomly assigned to: calcitriol group receiving 1,25(OH)₂D 0,5 mcg daily or cholecalciferol group receiving cholecalciferol 1000 IU daily for three months. The levels of Il-23 and Il-17A in the exhaled breath concentrate (EBC) were measured. Calcium-phosphorus balance was also evaluated (serum concentration of calcium, phosphorus, 25OHD, parathormone (PTH) and calcium/creatinine ratio in urine). Data were analyzed using means of Stata/Special Edition, release 14.2. A level of P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

The level of Il-17A in EBC significantly decreased in calcitriol group from 0,475 pg/mL (± SD 0,515 pg/mL) to 0,384 pg/mL (± SD 0,429 pg/mL) (p = 0,008); there was no change in cholecalciferol group (p = 0,074). The level of Il-23 in EBC did not significantly change in calcitriol group (p = 0,086); there was significant decrease in cholecalciferol group from 8,90 pg/mL (± SD 4,07 pg/mL) to 7,33 pg/mL (± SD 3,88 pg/mL) (p = 0,001). In calcitriol group serum phosphorus and PTH significantly decreased (p = 0,021 and p = 0,019 respectively), the concentration of calcium significantly increased (p = 0,001); there were no changes in cholecalciferol group.

Conclusions

Both analogs of vitamin D revealed their anti-inflammatory effect and reduced the level of Il-17A and Il-23 in the airway of CF patients with chronic P. aeruginosa infection. We observed improvement in calcium-phosphorus metabolism after supplementation with calcitriol, without adverse effects. It is recommended to use vitamin D in CF patients.

The effect of passive smoking on exhaled nitric oxide in asthmatic children

To date, some studies suggest that passive smoking (PS) may be an important determinant of FeNO levels in children but sill there is a need of investigations using objective methods of PS exposure. The aim of our study was to examine the effect of PS, measured by urine cotinine levels, on FeNO and lung function (FEV1) in allergic and non-allergic asthmatic children. METHODS: It was a prospective, non-interventional study. 140 children, aged 4-17, newly diagnosed with asthma were recruited into two study groups (exposed group, unexposed group), according to smoking exposure/unexposure based on the questionnaire. There was one study visit. Subjects underwent a medical history (including history of atopy), physical examination, spirometry, FeNO and urinary cotinine measurement. RESULTS: 70 individuals had been exposed to tobacco smoke. The patients exposed to tobacco smoke were characterized by statistically significantly higher urine concentration of cotinine, 10,80 ng/mL, than their counterparts who had not been exposed to tobacco smoke, 1,56 ng/mL (P = 0,019). In the group of individuals unexposed to tobacco smoke the mean value of FeNO was 34,99 ppb, while in the group of patient who had been exposed to tobacco smoke, the corresponding mean value was significantly lower, it amounted to 22,41 ppb (P = 0,001) (Table 1). As regards to FEV1 measurements, there were not any statistically significant differences by study groups unexposed/exposed to tobacco smoke (P = 0,179 and P = 0,074, respectively). FeNO levels (ppb) in the studied patients allergic to cat, grass or trees, exposed to tobacco smoke were significantly lower than in those children unexposed to tobacco smoke. Our results suggest a clinically important issue, that FeNO results should be interpreted in the context of environmental tobacco smoke exposure. Additionally allergy to cat dander, grass or tree may be potential confounding factor, which should be taken into consideration.

Status of hydration assessed by bioelectrical impedance analysis: a valuable predictive factor for radiation-induced oral mucositis in head and neck cancer patients

BACKGROUND

Apart from surgery, the methods of treatment of HNC are radiotherapy (RTH) and/or chemotherapy (CRTH/CHT). One of the most frequent and serious complications of RTH is oral mucositis (OM). There is a strict correlation between the inflammation and the status of hydration. The aim of the study was to evaluate the changes in hydration, occurring in the course of RTH, measured by means of bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) and to analyze them in correlation with the intensification of OM in HNC patients.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Data from 49 HNC patients (stages I-IV) were analyzed. All of them were irradiated using IMRT technique with the doses of 50-70 Gy. Oral mucositis (OM) was evaluated according to RTOG/EORTC guidelines. BIA was performed using ImpediMed bioimpedance analysis SFB7 BioImp v1.55.

RESULTS

In the fourth week of RTH, 4-5 days before the occurrence of severe OM, it was found that patients with OM grade 3 or higher compared to OM grade 2 or lower had significantly: lower ICW% values (respectively, 53.02% vs 50.72%; p = 0.0047), higher: ECW%: (47.95% vs 46.92%; p = 0.0020), TBW% (respectively, 56.34% vs 51.06%; p = 0.0455), ECW/ICW (respectively, 0.96 vs 0.86; p = 0.0007) and ECW/TBW (respectively, 0.49 vs 0.46, p = 0.0033).

CONCLUSION

Our study indicates that HNC patients undergo changes in hydration in the course of RTH. We have also confirmed that the intensification of OM leads to ICW decrease and the increase of ECW, TBW as well as ECW/ICW and ECW/TBW values.

Components of metabolic syndrome in relation to plasma levels of retinol binding protein 4 (RBP4) in a cohort of people aged 65 years and older

PURPOSE

Elevated plasma concentration of retinol binding protein 4 (RBP4) has recently emerged as a potential risk factor as a component of developing metabolic syndrome (MS). Therefore, this study aimed to analyse the relationship between components of MS and concentrations of plasma RBP4 in a population of subjects 65 years and older.

METHODS

The study sample consisted of 3038 (1591 male) participants of the PolSenior study, aged 65 years and older. Serum lipid profile, concentrations of RBP4, glucose, insulin, C-reactive protein, IL-6, and activity of aminotransferases were measured. Nutritional status (BMI/waist circumference) and treatment with statins and fibrates were evaluated. Glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), de Ritis ratio, and fatty liver index (FLI), as well as HOMA-IR were calculated.

RESULTS

Our study revealed a strong relationship between components of MS and RBP4 in both sexes: plasma RBP4 levels were increased in men by at least 3×, and in women by at least 4×. Hypertriglyceridemia was most strongly associated with elevated plasma RBP4 levels. Multivariate, sex-adjusted regression analysis demonstrated that chronic kidney disease [OR 1.86 (95% CI 1.78-1.94)], hypertriglyceridemia [OR 1.52 (1.24-1.87)], hypertension [OR 1.15 (1.12-1.19)], low serum HDL cholesterol [OR 0.94 (0.92-0.97)], and age > 80 years [OR 0.86 (0.81-0.90)] were each independently associated with RBP4 concentration (all p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

In Caucasians 65 years and older, RBP4 serum levels are associated with a number of components of MS, independent of sex and kidney function. Hypertriglyceridemia as a component of MS is most significantly related to RBP4 concentration.

Nonlinear Origin of SSVEP Spectra-A Combined Experimental and Modeling Study

Steady state visual evoked potentials (SSVEPs) are steady state oscillatory potentials elicited in the electroencephalogram (EEG) by flicker stimulation. The frequency of these responses maches the frequency of the stimulation and of its harmonics and subharmonics. In this study, we investigated the origin of the harmonic and subharmonic components of SSVEPs, which are not well understood. We applied both sine and square wave visual stimulation at 5 and 15 Hz to human subjects and analyzed the properties of the fundamental responses and harmonically related components. In order to interpret the results, we used the well-established neural mass model that consists of interacting populations of excitatory and inhibitory cortical neurons. In our study, this model provided a simple explanation for the origin of SSVEP spectra, and showed that their harmonic and subharmonic components are a natural consequence of the nonlinear properties of neuronal populations and the resonant properties of the modeled network. The model also predicted multiples of subharmonic responses, which were subsequently confirmed using experimental data.

Bioelectrical impedance phase angle as a prognostic indicator of survival in head-and-neck cancer

BACKGROUND

Phase angle could be an alternative to subjective global assessment for the assessment of nutrition status in patients with head-and-neck cancer.

METHODS

We prospectively evaluated a cohort of 75 stage iiib and iv head-and-neck patients treated at the Otolaryngology Department, Head and Neck Surgery, Medical University of Lublin, Poland. Bioelectrical impedance analysis was performed in all patients using an analyzer that operated at 50 kHz. The phase angle was calculated as reactance divided by resistance (Xc/R) and expressed in degrees. The Kaplan-Meier method was used to calculate survival.

RESULTS

Median overall survival in the cohort was 32.0 months. At the time of analysis, 47 deaths had been recorded in the cohort (62.7%). The risk of shortened overall survival was significantly higher in patients whose phase angle was less than 4.733 degrees than in the remaining patients (19.6 months vs. 45 months, p = 0.0489; chi-square: 3.88; hazard ratio: 1.8856; 95% confidence interval: 1.0031 to 3.5446).

CONCLUSIONS

Phase angle might be prognostic of survival in patients with advanced head-and-neck cancer. Further investigation in a larger population is required to confirm our results.

Acute phase response in the primiparous dairy cows after repeated percutaneous liver biopsy during the transition period

The aim of this study was to evaluate the acute phase response of dairy cows to repeated liver biopsy in order to estimate the safety of this procedure during the transition period. Liver biopsies (up to 1000 mg of liver tissue) were conducted twice a day, 7 days before expected parturition and 3 days after calving. The number of needle insertions for each biopsy was recorded and was dependent on the amount of obtained tissue. Blood samples were taken on day 7 before expected parturition, then on days 3, 4, 7 and 14 after calving. Body temperature was measured daily in all 30 cows from day 3 until day 14 after calving. The concentrations of haptoglobin, serum amyloid A, fibrinogen and interleukin-6 were determined in serum and plasma. In 16.7% of cows, the rectal body temperature rose by ≥ 0.5°C on the day after liver biopsy. Although the concentrations of haptoglobin, serum amyloid A and fibrinogen increased significantly after calving (p<0.01), there was no influence of the number of biopsies on the acute phase reaction and repeated biopsy during the transition period had no effect on body temperature. Therefore, the procedure may be regarded as safe for cows during the transition period.

One-year follow-up of clinical and inflammatory parameters in children allergic to grass pollen receiving high-dose ultrarush sublingual immunotherapy

BACKGROUND

In a previous double-blind placebo-controlled study, we analyzed a high-dose sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) ultrarush protocol in asthmatic children monosensitized to grass pollen. In the present open-label study, we assessed the effect of SLIT on symptom score and nonspecific bronchial hyperreactivity in the same cohort followed for 1 subsequent year.

METHODS

The study population comprised 35 children who were enrolled in our previous study. Placebo-treated patients were switched to active treatment; therefore, SLIT was administered for a further year to all patients. SLIT was considered effective if it reduced the severity of clinical symptoms and decreased the use of symptomatic medication. The effect of SLIT on nonspecific bronchial hyperreactivity (methacholine challenge test) was also measured.

RESULTS

The symptom scores for asthma and rhinitis and medication score remained unchanged in the group who continued SLIT. We also observed further significant improvement in the results of the methacholine challenge test during the third year of treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

High-dose ultrarush SLIT reduced the severity of allergic symptoms in the first 2 grass pollen seasons but continuously improved bronchial hyperreactivity in children with asthma, suggesting that SLIT should be continued despite the lack of further improvement in clinical symptoms.

Early exposure to unhygienic conditions and infections is associated with expression of different Toll-like receptors

BACKGROUND

We have previously shown a lower prevalence of atopy in children living in foster homes than in children living with their parents.

OBJECTIVES

In this study, we explored the associations between atopy and expression of Toll-like receptors (TLRs) 2, 4, 7 and 9 in the same groups of children.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We enrolled all the atopic children living in foster homes in Lodz, Poland and carefully selected, on the basis of age, sex, sensitization profile, clinical manifestation of allergy, and treatment, a similar number of nonatopic children living in foster homes, and a similar number of both atopic and nonatopic children living with their parents. Expression of TLRs 2, 4, 7 and 9 was analyzed in all children.

RESULTS

Expression of TLR2 in foster care children was significantly higher in nonatopic children than atopic children (P = .047), while that of TLR7 and TLR9 was significantly higher in atopic children than in nonatopic children. Additionally, expression of TLR9 in nonatopic children in foster care was significantly lower than in nonatopic children living with their parents (P = .003).We also found that both groups of nonatopic children had a greater number of features characteristic of foster home children (poor living conditions in the first year of life) than atopic children.

CONCLUSION

Our results may suggest that alternative mechanisms might underlie the in vivo regulation of the expression of different TLRs involved in the development of atopy.

Patterns of healthy lifestyle and positive health attitudes in older Europeans

OBJECTIVES

To determine (i) the extent to which recommended lifestyle healthy behaviors are adopted and the existence of positive attitudes to health; (ii) the relative influence of socio-demographic variables on multiple healthy lifestyle behaviors and positive attitudes to health; (iii) the association between healthy lifestyle behaviors and positive attitudes to health.

DESIGN

Two distinct healthy behavioral measures were developed: (i) healthy lifestyles based on physical activity, no cigarette smoking, no/moderate alcohol drinking, maintaining a "healthy" weight and having no sleeping problems and (ii) positive health attitudes based on having positive emotional attitudes, such as: self-perceived good health status, being calm, peaceful and happy for most of the time, not expecting health to get worse and regular health check-ups. A composite healthy lifestyle index, ranging from 0 (none of behaviors met) to 5 (all behaviors met) was calculated by summing up the individual's scores for the five healthy lifestyle items. Afterwards, each individual's index was collapsed into three levels: 0-2 equivalent to 'level 1' (subjectively regarded as 'too low'), a score of 3 equivalent to 'level 2' ('fair') and 4-5 as 'level 3' satisfactory 'healthy lifestyle' practices. The same procedure was applied to the positive health attitudes index. Multinomial logistic regression analyses by a forward selection procedure were used to calculate the adjusted odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (95% CI).

PARTICIPANTS

A multi-national sample consisting of 638 older Europeans from 8 countries, aged 65-74 and 75+, living alone or with others.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

Maintaining a "healthy" weight was the most frequently cited factor in the healthy lifestyles index and therefore assumed to be the most important to the older Europeans in the study; positive attitudes to health were relatively low; participants achieved a 'satisfactory' level for healthy lifestyles index (level 3) more frequently than a satisfactory level for positive attitudes to health; having a satisfactory 'healthy lifestyle' was directly related to having a satisfactory level of positive attitudes to health based on the positive health attitudes index; income and geographical location in Europe appeared to be key predictors for meeting both the recommended healthy lifestyle factors in the index and having positive health attitudes however, the composition and nature of the study sample should be taken into consideration when considering the impact of the location on healthy lifestyles and attitudes to health across Europe.

Energy and nutrients intake of elderly people living in the Warsaw region, Poland

The dietary intake of energy, macronutrients, minerals and vitamins was studied in a group of elderly living in urban, suburban, and rural areas of Warsaw region, Poland. The study was conducted in spring 1999 and 298 persons, born between 1919-1924, randomly selected with criteria of age and place of living, were included. Dietary data were based on the 3-day food records. The energy and nutrients intake was calculated on the basis of tables of nutritive value of food products and compared to the Polish RDA's. Daily food rations of the subjects (except for men living in Warsaw) had an incorrect structure as well as insufficient energy content. The highest (i.e. almost 60% or higher) prevalence of intake lower than 2/3 of Polish RDA's was observed for calcium, magnesium, copper, vitamin B2 and vitamin C as well as for iron and vitamin B1 among women. The average intake of fat, cholesterol, and phosphorus was above recommended level. The differences related to area of living were less pronounced for men than for women. Women from suburban area were the most vulnerable group in respect to nutritional inadequacy.

Life style characteristics associated with nutritional risk in elderly subjects aged 80-85 years

A logistic regression model was applied to 627 elderly men and women, who participated in all three data collections of the SENECA study in 1989, 1993, and 1999, to test the hypothesis that nutritional status in 80-85 year old persons was related to functional and cognitive status, but not significantly affected by living arrangement. Additionally, the authors hypothesized that relationships between cognitive status and self-care ability, between self-care ability and living situation, and between cognitive status and living situation would be stronger with increasing age. Nutritional status was categorized as being well nourished (> or = 24) or at nutritional risk (<24) using the 18-item mini-nutritional assessment questionnaire (MNA). Diminished self-care ability was defined as inability to perform all 7 self-care items on the ADL instrument. Respondents were deemed to have possible cognitive impairment if they scored <24 on the MMSE test. Residence situation was categorized as either living alone, with spouse/partner, or with others. Nutritional risk was found to be associated with diminished cognitive status and diminished self-care ability, but not associated with living alone. Elderly people with diminished cognitive function and diminished self-care ability had a more than two times higher risk of being at nutritional risk. In addition, the strength of relationships between cognitive status and self-care ability, self-care ability and living situation, and cognitive ability and living situation all increased over time. In the oldest old lifestyle characteristics and functional ability appeared to be stronger predictors of risk for malnutrition than in younger adults.

Consumption of food products by the elderly living in different environments of the Warsaw region, Poland

The aim of the study was to compare qualitatively the intake of food groups by the elderly living in urban and rural areas, with regard to the place of living and sex. Fifty-sex subjects in Warsaw and 142 in villages (born in 1919-24) participated in the study. A 3-day record method was used to collect nutritional data. The subjects living in Warsaw consumed more often milk, meat, fish, fruit and their products, as well as fats and oils. Less than 50% of the elderly living in either rural or urban areas ate eggs and fish. Consumption of fruit and its products was also low in the villages (47%). Meat and meat products were consumed more often by elderly men, whereas milk, fruit and their products were eaten more often by women (a rural area only). Consumption of specific food items also differed between the two analyzed living areas; milk, yoghurt and cheese were eaten more often by the residents of Warsaw, however, the intake of cream was significantly higher in the villages. The intake of red meat and meat products was similar, but poultry was included into the diet of 24% of the elderly in the rural area, significantly less than in Warsaw (34%). It also appeared that butter and mixed fats were more common among the elderly in Warsaw,whereas lard, pork fat and margarine were more popular in the villages. Food choice in the rural area was of poorer quality.

Medicine use and supplementation practice among participants of SENECA Study

OBJECTIVE

To assess six-year changes in medicine use and supplementation practice of elderly Europeans.

DESIGN

Longitudinal assessment including two rounds of the SENECA STUDY: 1993 (first follow-up) and 1999 (final follow-up). Random sample of elderly born between 1913-1918, 284 men and 337 women in 1999. Data were collected in 10 small towns in 9 European countries by personal interview using standardized questionnaire.

RESULTS

In the six-year period the percentage of subjects taking medicines increased significantly (81.3 vs. 87.6%), while supplement usage did not change (23.2 vs. 23.5%). In 1999 a greater percentage of participants took in long-term order (>or= 2 years) antihypertensive drugs (33% vs. 21%), diuretics (18% vs.12%), anticoagulants (17% vs. 5%)and nitroglycerine (13% vs. 6%). In 1999 the supplements more frequently taken were calcium (12% of all the subjects, 7% of men and 17% of women), vitamin D (10% of all the subjects, 6% of men and 14% of women) and ascorbic acid (10% of all the subjects, 8% of men and 13% of women). In the finale survey calcium supplements were taken by more respondents than in 1993 (12% vs. 8%). Medicine and food supplement use was more frequent by women than by man in both 1993 and 1999.

CONCLUSIONS

The higher prevalence of using medicines with cardiovascular effects suggests an increase of cardiovascular problems with age. The higher frequency of calcium and vitamin D usage among women suggests that these nutrients are taken for preventing senile osteoporotic fractures.

[Iron, zinc and copper status in the elderly living in Warsaw district determined by hair analysis]

The aim of this study was to assess the iron, zinc and copper status of elderly people using hair trace element levels determined by using atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS). The samples of hair were taken in May-June 1999 from 73 people aged 75-80 years (50 men and 23 women) living in Warsaw district. The mean content of iron was 17.32 +/- 12.38 micrograms/g dry weight, zinc 176.44 +/- 64.33 micrograms/g d.w. and copper 11.25 +/- 6.32 micrograms/g d.w. Although these values were in range of reference intervals almost 40% of population had iron and zinc level below them, and for copper the result was even worse (50% of the elderly people). No significant differences between trace element content in hair of male and female have been observed. However it has revealed a trend that female hair contained less iron and more zinc than male hair. The mean copper level was similar for both sexes. It has been found that subject who had not excluded any food products from their diets had higher hair iron contents than those with some dietetic restrictions.

[The effect of inhaled heparin on airway responsiveness to metacholine in asthmatic children]

Atopic asthma is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the airways associated with airway hyperresponsiveness to various bronchoconstrictor stimuli. There are several pharmacologic agents, involved in the inflammatory process, that can produce acute bronchoconstriction, such as metacholine. Heparin possesses multiple noncoagulant properties, including anti-inflammatory actions.

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effect of inhaled heparin on the airway response to metacholine in children with asthma.

METHODS

Fifteen children with mild atopic asthma participated in the study. It was randomized, double-blind, cross-over, placebo controlled study. There were three study visits. At the first visit patients were included into the study and beta-agonists were withheld for at least 12 hours before the next visit (second day). At the second visit provocation test with metacholine, inhalation with single dose of heparin or placebo followed by provocation test with metacholine were performed. After two weeks, tests were performed in the same manner except of that patients instead of heparin inhaled placebo or opposite.

RESULTS

Fourteen children completed the study. Single dose of inhaled heparin significantly decreased bronchial hyperresponsiveness to metacholine when compared to placebo.

CONCLUSION

The exact mechanism of anti-inflammatory role of heparin is still under investigation and needs to be studied further. The possible anti-inflammatory effect of heparin can be through effect on the neuronal M2 receptors or on receptor-protein G binding or direct effect on the smooth muscles, and in such mechanisms, heparin can decrease bronchial hyperreactivity to metacholine.

Double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial of effect of nedocromil sodium on clinical and inflammatory parameters of asthma in children allergic to dust mite

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to determine the clinical effect of nedocromil sodium and its relationship with serum levels of inflammatory mediators by monitoring lung function and noninvasive markers of airway inflammation, such as eosinophil blood counts; serum ECP, sIL-2R, IL-4 and sICAM; and total IgE. Anti-inflammatory medications cause a reduction in the markers of airway inflammation, decrease the intensity of airway hyperresponsiveness, and improve clinical symptoms of asthma. Among the available choices is nedocromil sodium, which is favored in the treatment of asthmatic children due to its very mild side-effects. It has been previously shown to improve the clinical parameters of asthma, but there are limited data on its effect on inflammatory mediators in the serum of asthmatic children.

METHODS

In this double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled 8-week trial, 39 children, aged 9-16 years, with moderate atopic asthma were randomly allocated to receive either nedocromil sodium, two puffs twice daily, 0.002 g/puff, or placebo, two puffs twice daily. The primary end points were the clinical parameters of asthma measured by asthma symptom score, FEV1, and PC20H. Other end points included the serum levels of various inflammatory markers - ECP, sIL-2R, IL-4, sICAM, and IgE.

RESULTS

Clinical and inflammatory parameters improved with the use of nedocromil sodium, compared with placebo. Nedocromil significantly decreased serum levels of inflammatory markers, as shown in the following table. No correlation was found between any of the measured parameters.

CONCLUSION

Nedocromil sodium provided effective anti-inflammatory treatment for children with moderate atopic asthma.

[Cisplatin and vinorelbine therapy of previously treated advanced breast cancer (preliminary studies)]

In this work it was investigated the efficacy of second and third line chemotherapy (vinorelbine, cisplatin/carboplatin) in patients with metastases breast cancer. The twenty pre-treated women with metastases to the liver, lung, lymph nodules and subcutaneous tissue were treated the regiment including navelbine 30 mg day 1 and 5 and cisplatin 100 mg/m2 day 1 every 3 weeks. The patients had been early received CMF and/or FAC. The total response rate was 40%. The median time to progression was 8 months. The stabilisation disease was at 20% patients. The tolerance of treatment was good and the frequent complication was leucopenia (WHO 2 and 3) and thrombocytopenia (WHO 1). The women received from 6 to 10 courses.

[Hypersensitivity to cockroach allergen among children with bronchial asthma living in the Łódź district]

Asthma morbidity increase every year, especially among children. The cause of this is multifactorial, but exposure to high levels of indoor allergens is thought to be one important factor, since we spend the large fraction (appx. 90%) of time indoors. Next to other popular indoor allergens (i.e. dust mites), many studies underline the importance of cockroach allergen. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the prevalence and importance of cockroach allergen in asthma among children in Łódź district. One hundred and sixty children, age 4-17, with bronchial asthma, were participated in this study. Each patient was examined, had skin prick test with common and cockroach allergens, measured total IgE level and undergone spirometry. Children with positive skin test to cockroach allergen had also measured specific IgE level to this antigen (immunoassay, CAP system). Our results showed that the most common allergen (by skin test), among these children, was dust mite 51.3%, followed by pollen 48.8% and cockroach allergen 24.3%. Among children with hypersensitivity to cockroach allergen 62% had also positive skin test with house dust mite and 59% with pollen. Average time of asthma duration in patients sensitive to cockroach antigen was 4 years and was similar to that of patients sensitive to dust mites and pollen. In children with cockroach sensitivity 13% had mild asthma, 26% moderate and 61% had severe asthma. We concluded that children with cockroach hypersensitivity have severe asthma more often than children with dust and pollen sensitivity. Class 3 and 4 in specific IgE levels correlated with severity of asthma. Our results showed that in children of Łódź distict, cockroach allergen is very important factor of sensitivity, next to dust mites and pollen. Hypersensitivity to cockroach antigen seems to influence the course and severity of asthma in children.

Evolutionary conservation of the apolipoprotein E-C1-C2 gene cluster on bovine chromosome 18q24

We have constructed a long-range restriction map spanning about 250 kb on bovine chromosome 18q24. Our results show that the apolipoprotein C2 (APOC2) gene is located about 25 kb from the APOE gene. Four putative CpG islands are also indicated in the map. Interestingly, a minisatellite located in the third intron of the human and mouse APOC2 genes was also found at identical position in the bovine gene and revealed high sequence identity comparing with the two corresponding sequences. By means of cosmid mapping, we further demonstrate that the APOE-APOC1-APOC2 gene cluster is evolutionary conserved in cattle.

[Dietary assessment of adults in three villages in Warsaw, Radom and Biała Podlaska districts]

The objectives of this study was the assessment of dietary patterns of adults individuals living in three villages: Celestynów (Warsaw district), Jasionka (Biała podlaska district) and Babin (Radom district) in Poland. The study was conducted in winter 1994/95 among 71 men and 77 women aged 18 years or more. The information on food consumption during one weekday was obtained by 24-hour dietary recall method. On the average the percentage of total energy intake from proteins and fats was above the recommended limits whereas the proportion of energy derived from carbohydrates was slightly deficient. For women the average daily intake of most nutrients under study (with exception of animal proteins, fats, sodium, phosphorus, manganese, vitamin E, B2 and niacin) was below recommended levels. The consumption of carbohydrates (also dietary fiber), magnesium, zinc, copper, calcium was 29-35% below recommendations and case of vitamin C-51%. In general men had higher mean intake of energy and nutrients than women. Their average daily diet did not meet recommendation only for carbohydrates, dietary fiber, calcium magnesium, copper, vitamin C and A. Men consumed too much animal proteins, sodium, phosphorus and cholesterol. Daily consumption of minerals and vitamins from diet and supplements together for those subjects who used supplements (41% of respondents) met or exceed recommended dietary intake, with exception of potassium for women. Taking consideration number of faults founded in the nutrition patterns of adults from rural area more nutritional study in this subpopulation group should be conducted.

[Follow-up study of adolescents with anorexia nervosa]

Analysis of the results of treatment of 132 patients hospitalized because of anorexia nervosa is presented. Average time of observation after hospitalization was 7,9/12 years. Mean age when the disease started was 13,7/12 years, when the analysis was performed--22 years. Catamnestic data were received directly from patients--46, from family members--25, from health service--3.18 sent answers by post, 40 neither contacted us nor answered to questionnaire. Analysis was founded on Morgan, Russel criteria, modified by Ratnasuriya. It showed that good results of treatment were received in 76% of all analyzed patients, in 11% they were intermediate, and poor in 12%. Two persons (2%) died. The social functioning of patients was found to be the best. More than half of the examined group had depressive and/or anxiety disorders. These disorders are significant in all the patients who remain chronically ill.

[Schizophrenia, schizophrenia-like disorders and delusional disorders in patients with anorexia nervosa: literature review and report of 3 cases]

The authors present the review of literature concerning schizophrenia, schizophrenia type and delusional disorders in patients with a lifetime diagnosis of anorexia nervosa (AN). The authors describe also 3 patients (2 cases of paranoid schizophrenia and 1 case of catatonic syndrome). The clinical features in all patients are discussed. In 1 patient the catatonic symptoms occurred within the context of AN, (perhaps due to metabolic disturbances) and in 2 other cases the psychotic features occurred after recovery from AN. The authors discuss the occurrence of psychotic features in AN, and the possible function of starvation and metabolic disturbances in their aetiology.

[Evaluation of the usefulness of vitamin/mineral preparations as dietary supplements]

The purpose of this work was to evaluate the vitamin/mineral preparations available on Polish market in 1995 in relation to their usefulness as dietary supplements. On the basic of the information in compendia, scientific papers, booklets, leaflets etc. the catalog of products containing vitamins and/or minerals was prepared. Complete data on composition, designation and other descriptors of 274 products were included. For further 28 preparations no full data were available. More than 53% of preparations were produced in Poland. Out of 274 preparations, 50% contained a single nutrient, while 20.1% contained 2-5 nutrients, 14.6%--from 6 to 10 nutrients, 13.1%--from 11 to 20 and only 2%--from 21 to 30 nutrients. Most of the products were intended for adults (165 preparations), adolescents (154 preparations) and children (132 preparations). Only 16 products were designed for pregnant and lactating women. Some of the preparations were intended for more than one population group with different dosage recommended by the producer. The amounts of nutrients in a single unit (pill, tablet etc.) of each product as well as percentage of recommended daily intake were estimated. Generally, these amounts were higher in products containing single nutrient than in multivitamin/mineral preparations. Out of 274 products included into the catalog, 132 met criteria established for dietary supplements in Poland (i.e. the amount of nutrients in supplements should not exceed 150% RDA). Among them in 25 preparations the amounts of nutrients in a unit of product were in agreement with a definition of supplements but daily doses recommended by the producers were much higher than 150% of RDA. For 33 products the amounts of nutrients in single units were very low, therefore to obtain a dose significant for dietary supplementation, one should take several units per day, usually the maximal dose recommended by producer. For 74 preparations the amounts of nutrients in single units as well as in daily doses recommended by the producer met criteria for supplements. Lack of complete and clear information on the label of vitamin/mineral preparations as well as lack of data on percentage of RDA covered by nutrients in the unit of product are the most important difficulties in choosing for dietary supplementation. The knowledge of composition of preparations containing various nutrients is necessary for nutritionist who want to assess the intake and nutritional status of some individuals as well as for their counselling work.

Characterisation of bovine peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors gamma 1 and gamma 2: genetic mapping and differential expression of the two isoforms

In this report we describe the isolation and characterisation of the cDNAs encoding two isoforms of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPAR gamma), gamma 1 and gamma 2, in cattle. The cDNA sequences show strong conservation with the corresponding sequences reported in other species. The distribution of PPAR gamma mRNAs in various bovine tissues was investigated using Northern blot analysis. The highest expression was detected in adipose tissue with about equal amounts of the both transcripts while a differential expression was found in other tissues investigated. PPAR gamma 1 was expressed at relatively high levels in bovine spleen and lung and to a lower extent in ovary, mammary gland, and small intestine. The amount of PPAR gamma 2 was apparently lower than that of PPAR gamma 1 in spleen, lung, and ovary. These results indicate a modulation of tissue distribution for the two transcripts in cattle. Using genetic linkage analysis we have also assigned the PPAR gamma gene to bovine chromosome 22.

Catatonic syndrome preceded by symptoms of anorexia nervosa in a 14-year-old boy with arachnoid cyst

This paper reports a case of a 14-year-old boy with arachnoid cyst in the right parietal region, who was referred to the child psychiatry department due to anorexia nervosa. A few days after admission he developed nihilistic and guilt delusions and lapsed into catatonia. The diagnostic problems and relations between his various pathological conditions (anorexia, catatonia, organic brain lesion) are discussed in this paper.

A 2.8-Mb clone contig of the multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1) region at 11q13

Multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1) is an autosomal dominant disorder that results in parathyroid, anterior pituitary, and pancreatic and duodenal endocrine tumors in affected individuals. The MEN1 locus is tightly linked to the marker PYGM on chromosome 11q13, and linkage analysis has placed the MEN1 gene within a 2-Mb interval flanked by D11S1883 and D11S449. As a step toward cloning the MEN1 gene, we have constructed a 2.8-Mb clone contig consisting of YAC and bacterial clones (PAC, BAC, and P1) for the D11S480 to D11S913 region. The bacterial clones alone represent nearly all of the 2.8-Mb contig. The contig was assembled based on a high-density STS-content analysis of 79 genomic clones (YAC, PAC, BAC, and P1) with 118 STSs. The STSs included 22 polymorphic markers and 20 transcripts, with the remainder primarily derived from the end sequences of the genomic clones. An independent cosmid contig for the 1-Mb PYGM-SEA region was also generated. Support for correctness of the 2.8-Mb contig map comes from an independent ordering of the clones by fiber-FISH. This sequence-ready contig will be a useful resource for positional cloning of MEN1 and other disease genes whose loci fall within this region.

[Methods of nutrient intake and nutritional status of the elderly in Poland on the basis of the literature from the years 1980-1996]

According to papers published in the years 1980-1996 there were many faults in nutritional habits of the elderly in Poland, which can affect nutritional and health status. Low consumption of calcium, vitamins C, A, and B group was identified most often while the intake of fats was too high in comparison to Polish recommended daily intake. Moreover iron and protein intake among women were also too low. The analysis of food products intake indicated that above mentioned inadequacy in nutrient intake was the result of low consumption of milk and milk products, fruits and vegetables containing vitamin C and beta- carotene as well as grain products and potatoes and high consumption of products from the group other fats. The observed differences between intake and nutritional recommendation were confirmed by the indices of nutritional status. BMI indicating overweight or obesity was observed for many subjects under study, more frequently among women than among man. Biochemical analysis showed risk of deficiency of some vitamins.

Longitudinal changes in the intake of vitamins and minerals of elderly Europeans. SENECA Investigators

OBJECTIVE

To assess longitudinal changes in intake of vitamins and minerals in elderly Europeans.

DESIGN

Longitudinal study including the collection of dietary intake data in 1988/1989 and in 1993.

SETTING

Baseline and follow-up data were collected from nine European towns: Belgium: Hamme (H/B); Denmark: Roskilde (R/DK); France: Haguenau (H/F) and Romans (R/F); Italy: Padua (P/I); the Netherlands: Culemborg (C/NL); Portugal: Vila Franca de Xira (V/P); Spain: Betanzos (B/E) and Switzerland: Yverdon (Y/CH). In four other towns dietary intake data were collected in 1993 only: Portugal: Coimbra (C/P); Poland: Marki (M/PL); Northern Ireland: Ballymoney-Limavady-Portstewart (BLP/NI/UK) and United States: Mansfield (Connecticut) (M/CT/USA).

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Using standardized methods, data were collected from a random sample of 658 elderly men and 731 women born between 1913 and 1918. Dietary intake data were collected by a validated modified dietary history method.

RESULTS

A significant decrease in the median intake of vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin B6, vitamin C or iron was observed in several towns and for most of these nutrients in H/B, R/DK, R/F and V/P. Over the 4-y follow-up period, the proportion of elderly people with nutrient intakes below the lowest European RDI's increased for various nutrients in most towns, whereas the nutrient density of the diet, especially for iron and vitamin C, decreased significantly only in a few towns. The proportion of elderly people taking nutrient supplements varied from less than 5% in H/B to 60% in R/DK.

CONCLUSION

The observed decrease in intake of some vitamins and minerals in most of the participating towns, indicates an increased risk for malnutrition in elderly Europeans.

The sequence of porcine apolipoprotein E (APOE) cDNA

Porcine cDNA clones encoding apolipoprotein E (APOE) were isolated and sequenced. The porcine APOE cDNA sequence is 1122 bp in length and encodes a pre-protein of 317 amino acids. The inferred porcine amino acid sequence corresponds to the human APOE-4 isoform.

[Epidemiologic problems of gastrointestinal infections in children 0 to 2 years of age]

The analysis is presented of certain epidemiological problems based on a material including 774 cases of gastrointestinal infections hospitalized in two paediatric centres of the Province Paediatric Hospital in Warsaw in the years 1979/1981/1983. Faeces were examined obtained from children aged 0 to 24 months treated in hospital for diarrhoea. The material was presented in tables and was subjected to statistical analysis. The absolute number of the treated infants with diarrhoea increased successively in successive years of the study. No significant correlation was found in the frequency of hospitalizations of children from Warsaw and from the Province of Warsaw. The greatest group of children with diarrhoea were children in the first trimester of life, especially newborns. The greatest number of cases were treated in the first and second trimester of the calendar year. Most cases of diarrhoea were due to E. coli agglutinating with group A serum, and Klebsiella pneumoniae.

Relationship between magnesium and zinc levels of the diet and its protein utilization

Protein utilization of the diet was tested in relation to different levels of magnesium and zinc in rats. The experimental diets contained either a low (0.14 g Mg or 10 mg Zn/kg) or adequate (0.45 g Mg or 40 mg Zn/kg) level of Mg or Zn and two different quality protein sources: casein or wheat gluten. Net protein utilization and net protein radio indexes in case of casein were significantly lower for the diet containing a low level of Mg or Zn. For gluten diets, such differences were not observed. Digestibility of protein measured in rats fed a low Mg or Zn casein diet was the same as for the diets with an adequate content of these minerals. Rats fed low Mg or Zn casein diets showed a significantly lower plasma Mg or Zn and a lower liver DNA content in comparison to the rats on adequate Mg or Zn diets. The results indicate that the utilization of protein is affected by Mg and Zn content of the diet and that this relationship depends on the quality of protein.

Evaluation of FAO/WHO pesticide standards in relation to Polish and Honduran diets

The FAO/WHO Codex Alimentarius Commission publishes a Guide to Codex Maximum Limits for Pesticide Residues (1978) which gives both acceptable daily intake (ADI) values and maximum residue limit (MRL) values for many pesticides in raw agricultural commodities (rac's) from crops on which their use is approved. ADI values are determined from animal toxicology data which given a no-observable-effect level (NOEL) and use of a safety factor. Specific MRL values are calculated from the ADI and a food factor (F), which is the decimal fraction of that rac in the assumed typical diet. One of the difficulties with this procedure is that dietary patterns differ substantially between countries. Whatever dietary pattern is assumed in calculation of the MRLs may be inappropriate for that country. Theoretical maximum residue intakes (TMRIs) were calculated from the Codex ADIs and MRLs using F values calculated from the national dietary patterns published separately in Poland and Honduras. The equation is TMRI = sigma MRLi X Fi X D, where D is the daily individual diet weight of rac's in kilograms for the particular country. The TMRI should be lower than the maximum permitted intake (MPI) calculated as MPI = ADI X 60, where the 60 is an arbitrary human body weight in kilograms. The TMRI exceeded the MPI for 16 of 33 pesticides used in Poland and for 10 of 20 used in Honduras. At the extreme, the Polish TMRI/MPI ratio for aldrin--dieldrin is 19.5 and 18.1 for fenithion; nine pesticides had ratios of 4.0 or higher.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)